A reader sends me in an email asking, “Should I bring my family for our first ever ski holiday?”. This got me thinking. This question has been asked before and written about here several years ago. This time, however I could detect that there was a real option to not bring the children — as […]

The Grand Arena Hotel Kempinksi in Bansko is a landmark building representing a modern Bansko. Its scale, its roof line and woodwork reflect an architecture that is more sympathetic that many of the other new buildings. Due it’s location and five star status, The Kempinski Grand Arena Bansko plays a flagship role in the fortunes […]

Alexander Nevski Cathedral is the number one historical building in Sofia.   It is even more impressive inside. But any visitor to Sofia should ensure they spend some time exploring this historical centre of Sofia.   I like it here. It is not flooded with tourists — like some cities. Sofia is compact and, in […]

Spring is here, the ski season is over and it’s Sofia. Take a look at this Sofia wikipedia link for the history. Planning a visit Sofia? Then read on for my hotel apartment review and part 2 in a few days. More on this later. But from shopping, dining out and music, Sofia usually surprises those […]

As I pulled the car up outside the Kempinski Grand Arena, Bansko I was greeted with a smile, and an offer to take our bags out of the car. When asked about parking, I was offered a 5 lev a day option. This is summer time and I replied…  “Alternatively I can park across the […]

Apartments to rent in Bansko are not in short supply, to put in mildly. But all too often a cheap apartment means cheap and uninspiring furnishing. The Bell Tower Apartment, in Bansko Royal Towers, is a VIP three bedroom home to rent just 150 metres from the gondola that has the wow factor. This is […]