The secret holiday hotspot for Europeans.
Many tourists try to visit Europe during the year, but where do European tourists go?
Hint – they go to Slovenia.
Slovenia is one of the most stunning countries you’ll ever visit, with snow-capped mountains, glittering lakes, and towns that look like they’ve come straight out of a fairytale. But even beside the beauty, you’ve got a fascinating culture, an eco-friendly approach to living and tourism, some of the kindest people you’ll meet, and unlimited outdoor activities.
Other Countries WISH They Could Be This Cool
Slovenia ranks as one of the top 10 eco-friendly countries in the world. It also has the most protected land out of any other country in Europe, at 30%, and it was also the FIRST country to be declared a Global Green Destination.
The country and its people recognize the importance of sustainability, and they are extremely proud of the steps they’ve taken to protect their land and educate not only their citizens, but also tourists about their sustainable goals. As of 2021, Slovenia has banned all single-use plastic products. In 1996, it was decreed that all classrooms in the country must incorporate the outdoors in some form of their education. In 2014, the capital of Ljubljana became the first capital in Europe committed to going zero-waste.
Their measures to protect their land have clear successes – with over 60% of the land STILL forested and hosting over 3,000 endemic plant species and 18 completely native animals (one of the most famous being the Olm, a rare amphibian found in the Postojna Cave).
Fun Fact – Europe has five species of large carnivores and Slovenia is home to three of them (the grey wolf, grown bear, and Eurasian lynx).
When visiting the country, you’ll see their commitment to sustainability everywhere. Bike lanes almost outnumber roads, the public water fountains have some of the cleanest water you’ll ever find, and the capital Ljubljana boasts an underground trash system as part of their zero-waste system. Additionally, a large number of protected animal shelters have drastically dwindled the stray populations.
Here, There Be Dragons
Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is known as the city of dragons. You’ll see them all throughout the city, on flags, bridges, the Castle, and, of course, on the coat of arms.
So, why dragons?
According to legend, Jason and his Argonauts (from the famous Greek myth) founded the city as they traveled from the Black Sea to the Adriatic and came upon a dragon near the Ljubljanica river. He slayed it, as mythical heroes do, and the dragon forever became tied to the city.
Over time, the dragon became less of a monster and more of a protector – a guardian of the city, so to speak.
Slavic, Or Germanic, Or Italian?
Slovenia has a complicated history. They were conquered many times and pulled into multiple empires (Roman, Byzantine, Holy Roman, Hungarian, etc), but it is perhaps best known for being part of Yugoslavia.
The countries within Yugoslavia were similar culturally in many ways, especially considering that they mainly bordered each other or a sea, but Slovenia is a bit different in that it was the most northern part of Yugoslavia and as such, shares a considerable amount of cultural similarities with its neighbors Italy, Austria, and Hungary. Additionally, since Slovenia has always been closely tied to Austria in many ways, many political issues that involved Yugoslavia didn’t always include Slovenia. They were always regarded as slightly separate, and this is part of the reason why Slovenia was the first country to declare independence from Yugoslavia in 1990.
As a result of this mix of cultures, Slovenia’s identity is very unique. Their language is Slavic, but has many German loan words. The architecture leans more to the Germanic and Italian side. Their music leans more Germanic, but their food is a distinct mix of Italian, Germanic, and Slavic.
Beware Of Driving
Slovenians speed. A LOT. You’ve been warned.
Also, if you’re renting a car, keep an eye on the extra costs they might try and say are required. Half of the time, they aren’t. Additionally, cars going to the airport will be priced somewhat reasonably, but cars going FROM the airport will try to rip you off like there’s no tomorrow.
Bugs. Lots of Bugs.
To be fair, this is mainly when you’re around water during warmer months.
But, let’s be honest. If you’re visiting Slovenia you’re likely going to one of the many gorgeous lakes or you’re going to have dinner near the Ljubljanica river at some point.
Slovenia has all the ‘normal’ bugs you’ll see anywhere – flies, ticks, mosquitos, etc. But, for some reason, those mosquitos really had it out for me and it became normal to sustain anywhere from 3-5 bites a night even with repellent on. So, bring extra strength bug repellent.
A Note – If you’re hiking or around the forest, give yourself a tick-check when you get home.
The Little Things
- The official language is Slovenian (also known as Slovene), but most Slovenians speak English in some form, so communicating isn’t too hard unless you’re in a very rural area. Other commonly spoken languages are Hungarian, German and Italian.
- Slovenians love a good market.
- Dogs and cats are relatively well taken care of (an important point if you’ve traveled to other Slavic countries).
- Everyone seems to own a dog, and an oddly high percentage of these dogs are beagles.
- Slovenian currency is the Euro.
- Slovenia isn’t too touristy – yet. But word is traveling, so get there quick.
- People are typically VERY friendly to tourists and will help you if you’re in a pinch.
- There are tons of discounts for students throughout the whole country.
- Slovenian wine is AWESOME.
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Any questions? Comment below or contact me!