The Big Move: Places to Visit in Blagoevgrad
Every year, many international students make the big move to Bulgaria.
We reached out to several AUBGers to hear more about their transition to Bulgaria and whether they’ve initially experienced a culture shock. Bulgaria offers 14 centuries of rich history and traditions, which is one of the reasons why international students decide to come to AUBG.
The Big Move series features representatives from 30 countries, who uncover some of the most interesting discoveries they have made about Bulgaria. As part of our interviews, we asked current students to share what is special about Blagoevgrad and where their favorite spots are.
Here is what they said:
Spencer Collins, USA
When you’re in Blago [That's how AUBGers refer to Blagoevgrad], the only thing that seems to matter is what’s happening in Blago. It is nice because it forces you to go out more and live more in the moment. I think every incoming freshman should start their Roots [an Italian restaurant by the river] addiction as soon as possible.
Balgyz Mammetyarova, Turkmenistan
In my opinion, the most interesting part of Blagoevgrad is nature. I could not believe my eyes when I first came to campus. For several weeks, I was wandering around, amazed by the beautiful trees, hills around the city, and the Bistritsa river near campus. It was all new and unusual to me and I felt blessed thinking that for the next four years I’ll have a chance to enjoy these surroundings. Bachinovo park and the walking routes that lead to the Cross on the hill are the best places to enjoy nature in Blagoevgrad, in my opinion.
Maria Fylyppova, Ukraine
The perfect way to get to know the city would be to explore it, starting with a hike to the Cross. It takes about an hour to get to the top, but the overview of the city, especially after sunset, is certainly worth going there. Having dinner at Largo's View is a must if you like to enjoy delicious food with a view of picturesque mountains in the background. Stopping by PolCa to get a cup of coffee and its signature sandwiches is a way to start the day off right, whereas taking a stroll to Bachinovo park makes the day complete.
Valeria Amaral, Brazil
I like how I can walk around and get anywhere without a car or a bus. In Brazil, it’s not really safe to walk around, so I appreciate that I can walk around the city and observe the architecture and the different stores.
Tamar Chanidze, Georgia
The most interesting thing for me is how connected and disconnected the city is from the campus. Students tend to spend a lot of time in the city while locals like to visit AUBG campus on a daily basis. Yet, it feels as if the city and the campus are two different worlds, which is a good thing.
Layla Mohamed, United Arab Emirates
Go to the Cross and to the Bachinovo park on foot (and not with a taxi).
When it comes to nightlife, Blagoevgrad has urban metropolitan energy even though it’s a small city. Make sure you go to Largo’s View restaurant to have a look at Blagoevgrad from above and enjoy some good food and refreshing drinks. Their JellyBon (non-alcoholic) cocktail is my favorite because you get some grapefruit, orange, mango juice, and little pieces of jelly candy.
Sude Atmaca, Turkey
It feels like the whole city belongs to the campus, which gives us more freedom and security to spend free time with friends. Blagoevgrad has very good hiking spots, swimming pools, cinema, theater, and nightclubs. Also, definitely make a visit to PolCa!
