Today we arrived in Bulgaria, headed for Sofia. We were struck both by the grinding poverty of some of the suburbs and the faded elegance of some of the older buildings. There was an interesting contrast between the Serbian side of the city which appeared very depressed and the Turkish side through whichwe left. Surprisingly it was this side that appeared more modern and much more afluent.

Now in the town of Plovdiv, of which I had never heard but actually it seems quite pleasant. It doesn't seem as affected by people heading here to escape the rural poverty. Today the town is vibrant with a celebration of the end of term. Hundreds of young people driving around town, dressed in their finery with horns sounding. A sad reminder that American culture gets everywhere, signs for prom events in most good hotels. Found a really good restaurant in the old town, very good food and wine and really quiet. Thank you Lonely Planet Guide.