Russian Church, Sofia
Continued from Albania...
Leaving Tirana, the capital of Albania, I embarked on a bus journey that led to Skopje (Macedonia) and I quickly transitioned onto another bus, whisking me away to Sofia, Bulgaria's dynamic capital.
The initial three days of my stay were dedicated to immersing myself in this cool cosmopolitan city. As I wandered through its streets, I was impressed at the mix of aging communist-era structures against the backdrop of globally recognized icons like Starbucks and McDonald's. Young, artistic souls roamed the streets, sharing space with enthusiastic university students, creating an atmosphere full of youthful energy. At the same time, elderly locals sold traditional medicinal herbs, serving as a reminder of Bulgaria's difficult past.
What made Sofia even more enchanting was the gradual shift in weather. The summer heat began to ease, paving the way for a more temperate autumn climate. Cloudy skies and refreshing rain showers offered a respite from the scorching sun that had accompanied me the last two months. In this blend of culture, architecture, and climate, Sofia left a positive mark on this trip, making it a memorable stop in my Balkan adventure.
