The political climate is stable, with no fighting, riots, or political unrest. Major economic changes are occurring in Bulgaria, but they are being done peacefully. Property taken from families and organizations 50 years ago is now being returned to its original owners. Inflation is running very high, but food is plentiful and affordable. There are no major health problems and the food and water are fine throughout the country.
Most cities have public drinking fountains from which it is safe to drink.
The atmosphere is more Mediterranean than Slavic, with an easy-going life style. This is partly the result of the area having been at the crossroads of civilization for well over 10,000 years. The area is rich in ancient ruins dating back 5,000 years and more. The language of the country is Bulgarian, a Slavic language written in a Cyrillic alphabet similar to that used for Russian. The major religion is Bulgarian Orthodox.