Ljubljana (population app. 330,000)
Slovenia is a relatively young european country, which proclaimed its constitution in December 1991. Since its independence Slovenia has made important progress in economic development and has consecutively achieved a higher standard of living. Its constitutional system is a parliamentary democracy. As a member of the EU and Nato since 2004, on 1 January 2007 Slovenia adopted the euro as the national currency and thus became the 13th member of the euro area, and the first of the ten 2004 EU newcomers, which adopt the common European currency.
For historical reasons, Slovenia has good ties with markets in Western and Southeastern Europe, a central position in Europe and excellent infrastructure. That is also why Slovenia helps open up new possibilities of business cooperation with the countries of Southeastern Europe, especially the Balkan countries. The most important in the Slovenian business culture are high business ethics and commitment to quality work. Austria remains the largest foreign investor, followed by Germany, Switzerland, France, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.
The country is situated in Central Europe and covers an area of 20,273 square kilometres. and is barely 300 kilometres across. Though its smallness Slovenia can offer you the various sensations of the Alps, the Pannonian plain, the Mediterranean and the luxury of the Adriatic Sea.
Visiting Slovenia could provide an interesting mixture of leisure and recreation.
You can even ski in the morning and surrender yourself to the luxury of the Adriatic Sea in the afternoon.
Forests in Slovenia, home of numerous preserved and protected plant and animal species, cover more than half of the country. It is the third most forested country in Europe, right after Finland and Sweden. There are also 363 km2 of orchards and 216 km2 of vineyards.
Most of Slovenia has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Slovenia is home to more than 15,000 animal species and 3,200 plant species.
Approximately 11% of Slovenia's territory is specially protected; the largest area with such a regime is the Triglav National Park with a surface area of 848 km2.
Slovenia is especially attractive to those who enjoy mountains and lakes, or spending time on the ski slopes. Skiing is the Slovene national sport.
There are more than seven thousand kilometres of marked mountain trails for hiking and climbing.
You can also choose between many museums, castles, churches and galleries. Among the most frequently visited locations, the Alpine Lake Bled area ranks first. The castle, dating back to 1111, and the "pletna" rowing-boats are two of the many attractions.
One of the most beautiful locations in Slovenia is Lipica, where the stud farm was established in 1580. When young, these horses are either black or grey and when they grow up, they become white.
The untamed Soca river is one of the five most unspoilt rivers in the entire Alps, and is thought to be especially beautiful as it winds its way through Triglav National Park.
Slovenia is also well known for its mysterious Karst region, which is the only one of its kind in the European union. There are over 8,000 registered beautiful Karst caves in Slovenia. One of the most visited is the Postojna cave.
Last but not least, Slovenia has numerous natural spas, where you can take care of your health with help of thermal mineral waters.
Slovenia is also known for its great wines and delicious traditional food. Slovenian food is a feast for the gourmet. Many restaurants offer a wide range of traditional national dishes, as well as international dishes like pizza, pasta and oriental dishes. The coast affords excellent seafood, including shellfish and the Adriatic bluefish.
