There is nothing dull about this former East Block city. Since the fall of the wall and the lifting of the Iron Curtain, the capital of Bulgaria has transformed into a hip cosmopolitan town. No more 60's style department stores, but trendy clothing shops with the latest fashion from Milan. Sleek bars and restaurants line the cobblestoned streets and the locals wouldn't look out of place in London or New York. Visit the many churches that are scattered around this ancient city and have a look at the National Historical Museum which is the biggest in Eastern Europe. In winter time you are not far away from some excellent ski resorts where lift passes and ski rentals are a lot cheaper than in say Switzerland or Austria. Stay at the Hilton and get the 5 star treatment for a 3 star price. Try some traditional Bulgarian food at Da vida where you can have a gourmet dining experience without breaking the bank. Have a few drinks at Apartment which is a bar that has he decor of a 19th century apartment, you get the feeling you're snooping around in someone's house, but it makes for a quirky night out. Sofia is a city yet to be discovered by the hordes of tourists and the great thing is that everything is still very inexpensive. But don't wait too long before you book that cheap ticket to Sofia, things might not stay this cheap here forever.