Backpacking in Solvenia

Backpacking can be a fantastic experience and a great way to see the world. Immersing yourself in different cultures and living with only the basics can be exhilirating. This article will provide some tips and suggestions for holidaying in Slovenia.
An Undiscovered Gem:
Formerly a communist country, and a rather small country at that, Slovenia has changed to a parliamentary Republic in recent years but has lost none of its rustic culture and charm. Sitting between Italy and Croatia, Slovenia enjoys an excellent Mediterranean climate which should satisfy anyone in the spring and summer months. Untouched by tourism and the binge drinking crowds that have destroyed such cities as Amsterdam and Prague, Slovenia, and in particular its capital, Ljubljana offers plenty to the backpacker. Cheap food and cheap drinks are on offer, but beware that some places are becoming more and more expensive because of the strength of the Euro these days. Hostel prices are also relatively cheap so staying in the city or country for a while shouldn't be too strenuous on your pennies.
Ljubljana; Culture And Comfort:
The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a peaceful city, and easy enough to walk around in. However, to see the city in the best way, the advice here is to rent a bicycle for the day, which can usually be done for around five Euros and cycle through the quiet streets. Cycing alongside the river that runs through the centre of the city is a relaxing way to unwind and get some exercise. There is also a Castle to visit, which may take more effort to get to on a bicycle due to the steep roads and pathways that lead up to it. The restaurants and bars offer good food at low to reasonable prices. Prepare for meat-heavy dishes and Hungarian style quisine. There are of course other places that offer foods from around the world, but the reccommendation is to go for something Slovenian as well. Alongside the river banks at night, you will find many trendy nightclubs, bars and restaurants that make a late night stroll along the river a very pleasurable activity. If you come off the main streets and the river banks, there are other bars and restuarants that offer better priced dinners and drinks and still maintain the excellent service and friendly atmosphere that makes the city and the country so special.
More Sights To Be Seen:
Further exploration of Slovenia can lead you to the scenic town of Bled and its beautiful lake. About 45 minutes by train outside of Ljubljana, a day trip or overnight stay here is a must for visitors to the country. A peaceful stay near the lake surrounded by mountains can help ebb away the stresses of modern life. You can swim in the lake, or rent a rowing boat and get a more hands on look at the crystal clear lake. There is an island set in the lake with a church that is also worth a look. Restaurants and bars can be a little more pricey because of the setting but are still reasonable and you get enough for what you will pay. The municipality of Piran is also worth travelling to. Often considered a mini-Dubrovnik, its location on the gulf of Piran gives it a truly breathtaking setting. The medieval achitecture and narrow streets give this place its charm, making it one of Slovenia's most popular tourist destinations. Whatever your decisions may be when you get to Slovenia, its lack of tourism, small population and epic scenery make it a destination well worth travelling to and well worth exploring.