Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
handing over your cash. Avoid exchange offices at train stations, airports or in tourist re-
sorts as rates tend to be very poor indeed.
The best currencies to take to Bulgaria are euros, pounds sterling and US dollars. You
may have trouble changing less familiar currencies, such as Australian or Canadian dol-
lars, but you should be able to find somewhere in a city such as Sofia, Plovdiv or Varna
that will accept most major international currencies.
It's also easy to change cash at most of the larger banks found in cities and major
towns; the exchange rates listed on the electronic boards in bank windows may offer
slightly higher rates than foreign exchange offices, but they may charge a commission.
Tipping
Waiters normally round restaurant bills up to the nearest convenient figure and pocket the
difference; the same applies to taxi drivers. In some restaurants a 10% service charge is
already added, although this doesn't always stop the waiters from rounding up the bill
again, or hovering expectantly for an extra tip. If it's not been added, and the service is
good, add about 10%.
Travellers Cheques
Travellers cheques are a handy way to carry funds overseas, but are not as popular as they
once were. They can only be changed at banks, not foreign exchange offices, and many
only accept American Express and Thomas Cook, with commission rates of 3% to 5%.
Photography
Taking pictures of anything in Bulgaria that might be considered of strategic importance,
such as military camps and border crossings, is not advisable. These days officials are
much less paranoid about photography than they used to be, but use common sense when
it comes to this issue. It's best to ask permission before taking close-up photos of people.
For inspiration and advice about taking great photographs, take a look at Lonely Planet's
Travel Photography
.
Public Holidays
During official public holidays all government offices, banks, post offices and major busi-
nesses will be closed. All hotels, restaurants, bars, national parks/reserves and museums
