When I was in grade school, History class mentioned Eastern Europe...I think. For the most part, though, there seemed to be a line running between the two Germany's to Italy, separating the named counties of the West from those nondescript areas in the East.
Much has changed over the years. For one, Yugoslavia no longer exists. In its place are 6 independent countries: Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia. I began my exploration of this part of the world in Slovenia.
Slovenia is wedged between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. It is small. 500x smaller than Canada! Or, slightly smaller than New Jersey. It's the kind of place most travelers overlook in favor of Venician canals, the Alps, the Danube, or Mediteranean islands. But realize that all of these places are only a day-trip away.
From the ocean to the mountains. From ancient to midevil to modern. From wine to hops to prekmurska gibanica. One does not have to travel far to enjoy something different...something unique...every day.
My course, thus far, has taken me from the seaside town of Koper all the way (3 hours away) to Lendava. Then zig-zagging back again through the rolling hills of the East.
Brightly colored homes. Manicured lawns. Flowers in every window. Long, winding roads. Ubiquitous cycling lanes. Outdoor seating for every restaurant. Public ride-share! And quite possibly the friendliest people in the world!!
The summation of what it means to be Slovenian can be found in the heart of their capital, Ljubljana. Their most prominent historical figure eternalized by a bronze statue in the Three Bridges square is the poet France Prešeren. Not a conqueror. Not a warrior. Not a politician. They believe that poetry and music have contributed more to the country and its people than any leader or ruler.
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