Ljubljana, Slovenia

This seemingly random, faraway city is one most of you likely haven't heard of yet. And quite honestly, neither had I until a cheap flight appeared on my search results, encouraging me to throw it into my Google search.

On my first day in this snowy city, I felt like I had stepped back into an old, medieval century. Most of Europe gives that "a moment in history" feel, but no other city had made me feel like I was living somewhere where the Paperbag Princess and her dragon might appear any minute. Especially considering the myths surrounding the legendary Ljubljana dragon who is thought to live on top of the Ljubljana Castle and protect the town.

I spent a day trip to Postojna Caves which is well worth the money! The experience takes you on a train ride into the heart of Slovenia's caves where an underground river had once rushed through. The Postojna Caves are a 15-20 min walk from the town of Predjama, making it very easy to access if you don't have a car or aren't keen to spend an arm and a leg on a taxi. I'd love to go back in summer, when they have a shuttle to run from the caves to the Predjama Castle as well. It was unfortunate that this time my ticket included admission to the castle, but the only way to reach it was by car or a 30 euro taxi.

I know I'm trying to make my posts short and sweet, and I'm trying my best. But, I loved this country so much that I'd like to shine a light on a few other special things (quickly, if I may). The Druga Violina is a restaurant in the south of the city centre where their daily special is a flavourful, home-cooked five-course meal for under 10 euros. Some of the best 10 euros you'll spend in the city. On the food note, it's also worth it to check out the markets that happen in the north of the city - they have everything from fresh fruit by the pound, to traditional winter clothing, to handmade soaps. My favourite time to visit was the morning while they were setting it up and they had the freshest strawberries and cherries. Finally, the Ljubljana Castle! This is the best view of the city you'll find (and home to that dragon I was just talking about)!

This favourite city of mine has so much for everyone, three days wasn't enough time for me to love it all as much as I wanted.

Until the next post,
Al