Nestled between Italy, Croatia and Austria sits Slovenia, a country of astonishing, rugged beauty with the Julian alps reaching far into the sky and a network of winding Škocjan Caves, unforgettable coastal towns on the Adriatic Sea and warming Mediterranean weather. It’s capital city, Ljubljana was awarded the green capital of Europe title in 2016 by the European commission, making it the perfect place to meander through the city centre, enjoying the gentle flowing river. If you’ve never had the chance to visit this unbelievable country, now is the time to experience the delicate charm on offer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Basic Phrases:

Slovenians may be famed for their welcoming nature, but communication may be an issue for native English speakers. Around 91% of the country speak the mother tongue of Slovenian and you may muddle through with German, Italian or Serbo-Croatian, but English is rarely spoken by most of the locals in Slovenia. So, we have put together some useful phrases to help you interact with all those you come across, and help you with potential awkward social situations, with exaggerated hand gestures, when communicating with the locals.  

Hello:  zdravo

Welcome:  dobrodošli

How are you?:  Kako ste?

Please: Prosimo

Thank you:  Hvala vam

Yes: Da

No: Ne

Goodbye: Zbogom

What’s your name?: Kako ti je ime

Do you speak English?: Govoriš angleško

Where’s the toilet?: Kje je stranišče?

Transport:

There are a number of ways to travel throughout the country, but the most reliable and easiest would be by rental car. Slovenian roads are clearly signposted and apart from some winding back streets, it’s very easy to get around. But if your aim is to explore and partake in the odd glass of Teran (a wine scientifically linked with good health in Slovenia.) It may be advised to travel by train, which stick to strict and regular timetables.

Expenses:

Although Austria and Italy are nestled on the border, Slovenia is the country of choice for those looking for a budget-friendly getaway. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is on average around €30, a one-way train ticket will cost you around €1.20 and a pint of beer will set you back €1.05, leaving you a little extra to spend on discovering Slovenia’s enticing culture.

Active breaks:

Slovenia’s rugged landscape lends itself to the perfect setting for an active adventure. There’s a range of adrenaline-fulled activities to get the blood pumping, whether you plan on travelling with loved ones, or going solo you can still stay active on your next Slovenian adventure. You could hike through one of Slovenia’s peak walking spots like Jezersko, a stretch of unspoiled wilderness, or try your hand at climbing 2864 metres to the top of Slovenia’s tallest peak, known as Mt. Triglav. However, if you prefer to keep off your feet, but still want to stay active why not try exploring the country by bicycle, or partake in one of Slovenia’s many water-based sports like taking a dip in the emerald green River Soča, or feel the rush of white water rafting on the River Kolpa. But, if none of these spark your interest there’s still ziplining, fishing, Stand-up paddle-boarding and so much more.         

Food: