A group of four pensioners from the Netherlands wanted to spend cultural holidays in Bulgaria.
The call
Anastasia called us on time – we had reserved a time slot on the website – and asked us a series of relevant questions about our needs and interests. In about 30 minutes, we managed to create together our exclusive tailor-made trip.
We explained to Anastasia that we wanted to focus on culture and traditions. We did not want to drive at all. Instead, we favoured private transfers in a comfortable vehicle. We also wanted to go after the summer break to avoid the high-season crowds.
With all these details in mind, Anastasia suggested that we discover the three capitals of Bulgaria, namely Sofia, the official capital, Plovdiv, the cultural capital, and Veliko Tarnovo, the historical capital. She also recommended that we stop by charming authentic villages on our way. Additionally, we would visit several beautiful monasteries and churches.
Regarding accommodation, we did not have any specific demands except that hotels and guest houses had to be of good quality and comfortable.
The reservation
Anastasia emailed us a detailed description of our tailor-made holidays and a quotation the following week. It included all the elements we discussed and agreed upon during our call. She also sent to us useful advice to purchase our flight tickets.
As a result, we approved and signed the quotation electronically and paid a deposit. As soon as we booked our air tickets, we forwarded our flight details to Anastasia so that she could arrange a smooth transfer from the airport. We were looking forward to our holidays in Bulgaria!
The preparations
Two weeks before departure, we received a comprehensive travel book setting out the complete itinerary by email. It also included many other things, such as travel advice and recommendations of restaurants and Bulgarian cuisine.
Thanks to a specific reference number sent by Velstana, it was also available online via a link and on a handy free app (that can even be used in offline mode!) available for iOS and Android devices.
Trip details
First steps in the Bulgarian capital
Visiting amazing museums & wine tasting
Bulgarian treasures
First steps in the 2019 European capital of culture
Exploring further Plovdiv
Asen’s Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery
Arrival in the medieval capital
Exploring in-depth Veliko Tarnovo
Discovering monasteries and authentic villages
Visiting Koprivchtitsa
Returning home
Price and services for this cultural trip: €760 per person
Included:
- 10 nights (breakfast included) in a standard double or twin rooms in 3* superior hotels or guest houses
- Private transfers throughout the journey
- 3 private guided city tours
- Private guided tours of the History Museum and Archeological Museum
- Wine tasting
- One-day private excursion to Boyana Church and Rila Monastery, including private transfer and guided tour
- Half-a-day excursion to Asen’s Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery
- Travel Book accessible anywhere, anytime, including a one-of-a-kind itinerary
Excluded:
- Flight tickets
- Museum and church entry tickets
- Lunch and dinner
- Travel insurance
The abovementioned sample prices are for guidance only and are not binding. The total cost of your holiday will depend on a number of factors, including time of year of travel and choice of accommodation and transport. The actual cost of your holiday is as set out in the Booking Confirmation.