Bulgaria

Endearing, surprising Bulgaria is a rewarding and all-too-often-overlooked destination. With a prime location at the intersection of civilizations — going all the way back to antiquity — it has an unusually rich cultural heritage. Despite (or perhaps because of) the country's tumultuous history, the Bulgarian people are sweet and soulful — eager to share their homeland's many underappreciated gems. Travelers who venture here enjoy thriving cities, remarkable ancient sites, a flavorful cuisine, a ruggedly beautiful landscape, and powerful memories. If more travelers realized how impressive (and how affordable) Bulgaria is, it'd be jammed. But they don't…so it isn't. You'll feel like you're in on eastern Europe's best-kept secret.