May 20, 2019 – Arrival
Our tour group has been arriving gradually in Sofia, Bulgaria, throughout the past two days. The landing at the airport is pretty spectacular, as you see the snow-capped mountains at the edge of the city. It is about a 40 minute drive past some of the city’s most important monuments to our centrally-located Hotel Anel.

The hotel is like visiting an art gallery with nearly every bit of wall space and floor space devoted to the works of famous Bulgarian artists. Here are just a few examples.




My luggage was somehow “lost” by the airlines, and will be delivered later tonight. Meanwhile, I wander in the environs of the hotel to locate a shaving razor. There is a well organized metro system as well as electric trams running in the streets.

Our group gathers for the first time this evening for a welcome drink, introductions, and a short briefing by our wonderful guide Branko.



Hi Dan! I wish you and the group a great trip. Say “hi” to my friend Ray on your group.
I sure will Richard! Thanks! Wish you were here!