Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Slovenia
 |  | Fact File : Slovenia |
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| | | Slovenia | | Did you know?
Slovenia has the second largest cave system in Europe.
Language
Slovene.
Visas
Not required for UK passport holders.
Getting there
There are direct flights from London to Ljubljana.
Flying time from London
Two hours.
Getting around
Buses are a better bet than trains as they are more frequent and go to more places. Some train trips are worth taking though - the one-hour journey from Ljubljana to Bled costs just over £2. Boat trips are a good way to see the larger lakes. Car hire is more expensive than in many other European destinations - from around £120 for three days.
Currency
The Tolar (SIT). Though you may also see prices displayed in euros.
Costs
As a rough guide: moderate meal £4, a beer 90p, a short taxi ride £2.50.
Weather
Slovenia has three different climates. On the coast and in the west of the country it's mild and sunny most of the year. In the Alpine valleys of the north-west it's pleasant in summer, cold in winter (down to -2C) and there's a fair amount of rain, most of it falling in March and April, October and November. The east of Slovenia has hot summers and cold winters. May and June are good months for seeing the valleys in bloom. September is good for walking with less tourists around but long, reasonably warm days. December to March is best for skiers.
Time difference
One hour ahead of GMT.
International dialling code from the UK
00 386
Voltage
220v.
Opening hours
Shops usually open from 7.30 or 8am to 7pm on weekdays and until lunchtime on Saturdays. Main post offices open 7am to 8pm weekdays and until lunchtime Saturday. Banks open 8am to 4.30 or 5pm weekdays and until lunchtime Saturdays but may close for lunch.
Health - Before you go
Foreign visitors qualify for free emergency medical treatment but make sure you have adequate travel insurance. If you're visiting heavily forested areas during the summer months, seek advice from your GP on possible inoculation against tick-borne encephalitis.
Health - When you are there
No major health problems in Slovenia.
Warnings
No specific problems. Theft is the biggest crime so take the usual precautions to safeguard your possessions. Be aware there are heavy on the spot fines for traffic offences and for jaywalking.
Emergency
Police 113, Fire and Ambulance 112.
Customs
The equivalent of the English pub is the gostilna, traditionally an inn where travellers rested overnight. It's still at the heart of Slovenian life and the place where you're most likely to get traditional food. An old Slovenian proverb states: "Life without holidays is like a long road without a gostilna."
Pets
Slovenia is not included in the Pet Travel Scheme so taking your dogs or cats on holiday there is not an option at present.
Tipping
If it's not included, add 10% to the bill.
Tourist office
Slovenian Tourist Office, New Barn Farm, Tedlow Road, Tedlow, Royston, Hertfordshire, SG8 0EP. Tel. 0870 225 5305.
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