Slovenia

The most successful successor state of the former Yugoslav Republic, is green, mountainous, well-educated and hospitable. Bordering among others, Austria and Italy, it is no wonder their influences can be felt in the architecture, culture and cuisine of this little Alpine nation.

Overshadowed somewhat by its bigger neighbours, Slovenia doesn’t get the ‘aahs’ of Croatia’s Adriatic Coastline, the ‘oohs’ of Austria’s Alps, and the ‘oh-la-la’s’ of Italy’s cities and food. But perhaps that is a boon. Because it also doesn’t get the tourist hordes that come with all those 'oohs', 'aahs' and 'oh-la-la's'. And yet you can enjoy the Adriatic in all its glory, you can hike through the dramatic Julian Alps, and you can stroll through Venetian cities with a hint of Austrian baroque architecture.

Whether you walk around picturesque Lake Bled, go spelunking in the Škocjan Caves, hike through Triglav National Park, watch an Adriatic sunset while eating some fresh seafood in Piran, or go clubbing in the capital Ljubljana, you won’t have to compete with too many tourists in the process.

Most of all Slovenia is an out-door kind of place. A country for hiking, or rafting, for skiing and paragliding, for mountain-biking and rock-climbing, and all in the most superb scenery you can imagine. What’s not to like? At the end of the day you can replenish your energy with a fusion of Italian pasta with Austrian potatoes and fresh herbs, accompanied by excellent Slovenian wine.

Isn’t it time to visit this fair country that combines all the best traits of its neighbours and then some? Stop reading, start moving!