Thursday 26 July 2007

Slovenia - a little jewel

The unification of Europe, both politically and economically, together with the explosion of cheap air travel has helped fuel a huge increase in air travel. And whilst visitor numbers to the traditional favourites such as Spain and France show no signs of abating, the opening up of the former Eastern Europe has presented some new and exciting locations for corporate and leisure travel.

Unfortunately the launch of EasyJet and Ryanair routes to new cities does tend to lead to a quick switch in favoured destinations for stag and hen parties and we have all seen the effects of the stag phenomena on Dublin, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Prague, Talinn et al.

Slovenia still remains a wonderful antidote to much of modern Europe's crowds and high prices - and on a recent visit there was a refreshing lack of gangs of young alcohol-fuelled Brits. Ljubljana is a wonderful city - a mix of Prague and Budapest - but without the hordes of tourists. It is fairly typical of the rest of the country - very green, very clean, very friendly and very reasonable! Indeed, Slovenia must be one of the few countries within the cursed Euro zone not to have signalled its introduction as a passport to riches. Hotels, travel, restaurants and socialising are all available without the need for wallet-busting budgets.

It makes such a refreshing change to eat out and enjoy superb food and wine - and still get a bargain to boot!

In addition to Ljubljana we also visited the stunning Lake Bled. It's a dangerous place mind you - it can be romantic! The small church on the island in the middle of the lake is reached either by Gondola-type boats or you can propel yourself by rowing boat. According to local tradition, a husband who can carry his newly married bride the 99 steps up from the dock into the church will be ensured a happy marriage, and ringing the bell in the church will make your dreams come true. From the lake, take a look around at the wonderful views of Bled Castle set against the backdrop of the Julian Alps. Bled is a popular destination for walkers, cyclists and for those just looking for a place to relax.

Slovenia, Ljubljana and Lake Bled are extremely cost-effective destinations for corporate visits - with incentives and conferences here likely to make less of an impact on your budget. Travel time to Ljubljana is less than 2 hours from London and there are a number of very good quality business hotels offering superb conference facilities.

Slovenia is well worth a visit - and if you'd like some ideas for your next business event, conference or incentive, why not contact us?

1 comment:

Sean said...

Very interesting article and nice pictures! I'm glad that you enjoyed your trip! Unfortunately I didn't visit Slovenia! But last year I visited capital of Czech Republic! First of all I liked that, to find in Prague accommodation is very easy! There is a big choise of hotels! Prague is a city of many faces. It has its long and sometimes mysterious history, breathing from each building in the old centre. There are three places are undoubtedly the main points of Prague- Prague Castle, Charles Bridge or Old Town Square!