A country steeped in history, Bulgaria is a predominantly Christian nation with a long tradition of family-based society. While arranged marriages still occur in some groups, the majority of marriages are between individuals of similar age and from the same ethnic group.
The cuisine is influenced by both Ottoman and Mediterranean foods, with a particular emphasis on meat dishes, dairy products, and wines. The country also produces large amounts of fruits and vegetables.
One of the most popular meals is moussaka, a casserole with pork or lamb, potatoes, tomatoes, and yogurt. Another traditional dish is nadenitsa, stuffed pork sausage. Bulgarians also like to eat at mehana, which are eating establishments that feature traditional food, folk music, and dancing.
Bulgarians eat both vegetarian and meat-based dishes, and the country is famous for its salads. Some popular salads include tarator, which is a cold soup made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. Other salads use ingredients such as beans, tomatoes, feta cheese, and peppers.
The country’s bread is also very popular. Some types of bread are baked in large ovens, which give them a distinctively thick texture. Other types are fried in olive oil, which gives them a crunchy crust. The country also makes a variety of flatbreads, including pita and various kinds of borek.
Banitsa, a pastry filled with eggs, spinach, or pumpkin, is another traditional Bulgarian food. It can be eaten hot or cold and is typically served for breakfast with plain yogurt, ayran, or boza. A sweet version of banitsa is often served at Christmas or New Years, when people may place lucky charms or sayings in their piece to bring them luck for the year ahead.
Despite the fact that Bulgaria is a European Union member, many citizens still lack access to proper medical care. The healthcare system is in need of improvement, and the government has started to increase funding for hospitals, clinics, and doctors. In the meantime, many Bulgarians rely on private insurers to cover basic healthcare costs.
The Bulgarian language is part of the Slavic branch of the Cyrillic alphabet, and is closely related to Russian and other Slavic languages. The language has a relatively small number of words, and uses a simple case system.
Bulgaria has a rich and diverse culture, with influences from both the Balkans and the Middle East. The culture includes a strong tradition of oral literature and a rich musical heritage. The capital city, Sofia, has numerous museums and art galleries that are worth visiting.
The business climate in Bulgaria is generally favorable for foreign investors, and the country has a well-educated workforce. The major industries in the country include agriculture, mining and metallurgy, and manufacturing. There are also a growing number of IT-related companies. International business travelers should familiarize themselves with local customs and business practices before a trip to Bulgaria. Business travelers should also keep in mind the country’s political instability and crime rate. Travelers should also be aware of the high rates of inflation.