Today, we woke up to a beautiful Saturday morning at the port of Vidin in Bulgaria. The forecast was cloudy with some rain in the afternoon so we prepared for it. We bought VRC signature rain jackets, ball caps and a tote bag to put all our stuff for a half- day excursion Vidin city tour, visit to the Belogradchik Rock Formation and Fortress.
It was actually an eye opener to learn more about Bulgaria. We knew it has some economic challenges but not the poorest in the region. It is surprising to know that it is almost as impoverished like a third world nation. The average monthly income is $510 per month and average monthly pension is about $90. This has pushed almost 20 per cent of its 7.2 million population (hindi lang pala tayo) to migrate or work out of the country in recent years. It has a negative population growth due to low birth rate and migration
As the bus rolled slowly around town, our tour guide who also works as an English teacher indicated that Vidin boasts of the "only preserved medieval Bulgarian castle". She emphasized the difficult life when Vidin was under communism. Medium-rise condominiums are everywhere defining the character of the town. The units range from 30 to 80 square meters and was home to many Vidin workers at the height of the communist regime. Today, it is a thriving community because of its agricultural and trading activities. Vidin is known for its wines and vegetable farms.
The next stop was at the foot of the Belogradchik Rock Formations. The sight was spectacular from afar or near as the huge formations fuel the most active imaginations of the person looking at them at the right angle. But through the passing of time, there are already distinct imaginary silhouettes of people, animals, etc. The formations reminded us of the rocks of Montserrat in Spain.
The tour also brought us to the Belogradchik Fortress that was built by the Ottoman conquerors. The beauty and magnificence of nature are reflected from the unique rock columns, pillars, rock shapes and caves that lined the courtyards. The "braves" went for the hundreds of steps uphill while the physically challenged and aging bodies opted to stay at the foothill to rest. The climb was daunting but nonetheless the able-bodied succeeded. Butch and I just opted to walk slowly back to the bus for a much-needed nap.
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