Location: Europe
Local Time: GMT+2
From 30 Oct 11 to 25 Mar 12 GMT +2
From 25 Mar 12 to 28 Oct 12 GMT +3
From 29 Oct 12 to 30 Mar 13 GMT +2
From 31 Mar 13 to 27 Oct 13 GMT +3
Capital City: Sofia
Population: 7.52 million
Area: 110,910357,021 square km, 42,822 square miles.
Language(s): Bulgarian, English, German, French, Russian
Dialling Code: 359
Emergency: Police: 166. Fire: 160. Ambulance: 150
TV Standard: SECAM
Driving: Driving is on the right. International Driving Permit recommended although National licences are accepted for short visits
Electricity: 220V AC 50Hz
Currency: Lev (BGN 1 = 100 Stotinki)
Notes: BGN: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100
Coins: Stotinki: 1, 2, 5, 10, 50
Credit Cards/Travellers Cheques: Credit cards and travellers cheques are accepted in major hotels & restaurants
Opening Hours
Bank: 0830-1230 & 1330-1530 Mon-Fri, 0830-1130 Sat
Office: 0900-1800 Mon-Fri
Shops: 1000-2000 Mon-Fri, 0800-1400 Sat (some times vary)
Public Holidays
2012
Note: When holidays fall on a Sunday, the next working day is sometimes used in lieu.
Business/Social Hints: Many executives speak a second language. Local body language customs can lead to misunderstandings. Nodding the head, up and down indicates no, and side to side movement - yes. On social occasions, eg invitation to restaurants, be punctual. Dress as for business meetings unless otherwise indicated
Tipping: 10% customary
