"Hey guys, this is not LA, but it is . .... " a Sofia Travel Page by lifeisatrip

There was a sign on top of a building as we were driving from the airport to the city center that reads: "Hey guys, this is not LA, but it is a cool place, too." Or something to that effect. Although I had my camera out, I wasn't quick enough to take a picture of it. (The picture of the cathedral I took while we were descending into the airport).

It definitely is NOT L.A. A cool place? Possibly if I were younger and was there for the night life. Regardless, I found Sofia to be a beautiful and an interesting city. It's quite similar to my home country in its staggering poverty. Both are third world countries which depend highly on remittances from citizens who work in other countries. Both are struggling with their economy where there is a distinct line that separates the very rich from the ordinary people. The difference, of course, is that Sofia has the old world charm with its beautiful old architecture. Manila and the other cities in the Philippines, on the other hand, are quite young in comparison.

Sofia became the capital of Bulgaria in 1879. Before Sofia, it was Veliko Turnovo that held the title for six hundred years. The change of capital marked the end of the country's dark ages.

The city's historic buildings date from the turn of the century, but the area has been inhabited as far back as 7,000 years ago. Sofia was known as Serdika under Thracian rule, and was later renamed Triaditsa. Starting from the 9th century, it took on the name Sredets. The city was not named Sofia until the beginning of the 15th century.

More Sofia pictures in the Travelogue section.

Whenever possible, I try to visit the open market of a place I am visiting. It tells me a lot about a country and its people, what they eat, what's homegrown, what real prices are compared to the tourist prices. I had the opportunity to visit Sofia's, called the Ladies' Market, and like I mentioned earlier, it reminds me of my home country. The market was dirty and dusty. Coming from the tourist area, it was just like crossing from day to night. I didn't find anything interesting.

Another thing I like to do when visiting another country is talk to locals about their economy and if willing, about their politics or just life in general. The waitress at the hotel coffee lounge was more than willing to talk. She told me that average wages in the city (Sofia) is 2-3 leva per hour. With tips, she said she averages about 700.00 leva a month, which she claims is hardly enough. 1,000 leva a month is enough for rent and other necessities and maybe a few luxuries, but the average worker only brings home between 350 to 450 leva. Another thing, as is true in any other third wold countries, is that money is power; it speaks much more so than in developed countries.

But Bulgarians are resilient and hard workers. Given a better opportunity, I believe, they will thrive and prosper.

One thing my husband and I noticed was that they seem to be happy people. There were laughters and joyful noises in most places. Coming from Germany, it was a pleasant and most welcome change.