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Slovakia is an invisible country in the center of Europe, but very attractive for a tourist. Where is Slovakia? Slovakia official name

Slovakia is a long and narrow band stretching from the fertile plains of the Danube basin to the mountain peaks of the high tatras - a surprisingly beautiful mountain range. These mountain ranges have long hampered the processes of industrialization and modernization, and therefore Slovakia is rather similar to the countryside and retained the pristine freshness (sometimes before indecent).

Until 1918, the current Slovakia was called Upper Hungary and almost a whole millennium died under the rule of Magyar, and Bratislava was even the Hungarian capital, when he captured the rest of the country. But in 1918, Slovaks together with their Slavic neighbors, Czechs were formed a single state - Czechoslovakia, which lasted for 75 years to the "Velvet Revolution" of 1993. In 2004, Slovakia joined the EU. In the republic, a very dissimilar population: Over half a million ethnic Hungarians live in the south of the country along with thousands of Gypsies, leading a rather miserable existence, and several thousand Rusins \u200b\u200bin the East.

About the capital of the country Bratislava in the past responded very unflattering, but this small old city was well restored over the past decade and now looks very attractive. The poprade is a highway transport hub - the most spectacular mountain range of Slovakia, where tourist routes begin on interesting medieval towns of the Spisch region in the eastern part of the country. Even further to the east, the cultural center of Rusins \u200b\u200bis located, and the second largest Slovak city can boast the beautiful Gothic Cathedral, the multinational population and is straightely different from many other places in the country.

Transport and accommodation in Slovakia

Two thirds of the country's railways make up a single bulge, so slow motion here, but some trips should be made to admire local landscapes. In the Slovak Railways (Zeleznice Slovenskej Republiky), fast trains (Rychlik) are held with stops in large settlements, while local trains stop throughout the local train (OSOBNY VLAK). For trips within the country, Tickets (ListOK) can be bought at the station (stanica) on the eve or on the day of departure. On the train Euro City, sometimes on Intercity and Expres trains will have to pay extra.

The compositions of ZSR have sleeping wagons (Luzkovy Vozen) and sleeping places (Lezadlovy Vozen) at reasonable prices that should be booked no later than six hours before departure. Inter Rail cards operate in the country, extra charge for EURAIL cards. Bus (Autobus) message faster and covers a large territory. In most cities, train stations and bus station are located nearby. State Bus Company - Slovenska Automobilova Doprava, or Sad. Usually buy a ticket from the driver, because the ticket offices are often closed. For weekends and early flights, tickets must be ordered in advance.

  • Accommodation in Slovakia

In all cases, it is not bad to book housing as early as possible. Some hotels raise their tariffs twice as foreigners, mostly simple number for 10 euros is easy to find everywhere, except Bratislava. Old government hotels and resort complexes On sources, slowly restored (numbers are usually small and expensive there). At the same time, new hotels and guest houses are opened - especially in famous tourist areas - and often very good. A good option is a private housing in many places, for this you need to look for the inscription Zimmer Frei. Prices here begin with the amount of 8 euros per day.

There are no real network hostels here, although some relate to the Hi system or work within the framework of the SCM student travel agency. Bratislava has several private hostels with different levels of comfort. Ubravert, local turbo clubs or SCM branches provide information about cheap student hostels in university cities in July and August. In the high tatras, in addition to housing in the panel houses on the waters, you can find several houses (chalets or CHATA) scattered through the slopes of the mountains. Some of them - hotels with price bedroom About 15 euros, and much less in institutions easier and in more secluded places. There are many campgrounds with simple bungalows, where prices begin with 8 euros per bed.

Food and Drinks in Slovakia

Slovak cuisine satisfying enough, and in different regions of the country traced Hungarian, Polish and Ukrainian influences. In the mornings in standing tables (bufet), Parek is usually eating - a hot cake with mustard and horseradish in a white bun. The national dish is Bryndzove Halusky, or dick with sheep cheese and bacon, roasted in breadcrumbs, in which the Hungarian trace is also traced. The goulash is very popular (though, in a softer and not so thick and acute form, like C) and Langose \u200b\u200b- fried dumplings with different filling. The menu is mostly starting with soup (Polievka), which is eaten as day, and in the evening. At the heart of the main dishes - pork or beef, are usually present trout and carp, you can taste a sazana or catfish, and if you are lucky, enjoy the lamb.

Most of the second dishes are served with potatoes (Zemiaky), but fresh salads and vegetables are rarely found in local restaurants. In addition to the cake (Palacinky) with chocolate, fruit and cream among Slovak desserts, apple strudel, pie with homemade cheese and ice cream. More and more restaurants offer international cuisine from fast food and pizzeria enterprises. The hours of work are also extended, in remote regions these points are closed at 21.00 or 22.00, in larger settlements, restaurants work until 23.00 and later. Coffee (kava) They drink black here, and in large cities - espresso, although sometimes in the towns and villages, they simply dilute ground coffee with boiling water (although they call "Turkish", Turecka).

Confectionery (Cukraren) play an important role in public life, especially during the day on Sunday, when only they are open. Regardless of the Slovak season, the daily portion of ice cream is eaten (ZMRZLina). On the vineyards of the southern part of Slovakia produce good white wines that are not inferior to Hungarian and Austrian. The most popular local drink is a squabble, or plum vodka, common everywhere. Having live almost seventy years by side by side with Czechs, Slovaks are accustomed to draft beer, but still beer (Pivnica) here less than in. Slovaks are visited more restaurants or wine bars (Vinaren), often working late as nightclubs.

Signal attractions of Slovakia

one). - Small Slovak capital - a beautiful, well-renovated ancient city, full of baroque palaces, shady areas and lively street cafes;

2). - These vertices are the most beautiful mountains of Slovakia - raise over the plain Poprad;

3). - Attractive medieval town, surrounded by a wall and originally populated by saksami;

4). Spissky degrees - A large medieval castle in the east of the country is impressive with its ruins on the top of the mountain.

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Slovakia - State in Central Europe. It borders with the Czech Republic, Poland, Ukraine, Hungary and Austria. There is no exit to the sea.

Most of the country is mountainous (the highest point of the country - G. Gerlakhovski-Shtit, 2655 m). A third of the countries occupy fertile South Slovak and East Slovak lowland in the south-east and Danube lowland east of Bratislava.

Airports of Slovakia

Bratislava Airport Miroslav Styfan (Bratislava Milan Rastislav Stefanik Airport)

Kosice Barca Airport Airport

Poprad-Tatry Airport Airport

Hotels of Slovakia 1 - 5 stars

Weather Slovakia

Moderate continental, with warm summer and cold winter. The precipitation on the plains drops from 450 to 700 mm. per year (mainly in winter and in the offseason), in the mountains - up to 1600-2100 mm. in year. At the same time, the snow in the mountainous areas, despite the relatively small height, lies 4-5 months a year, but the weather is quite changeable, therefore frequent thaws.

May, June and September - the most convenient months for the "ordinary" visits to the country, for skiing the most favorable period from November to March.

Average air temperature in Bratislavat ° C.

Language of Slovakia

State language: Slovak

Czech, Hungarian, German, English and, in the places of their residence are widespread - the languages \u200b\u200bof ethnic groups.

Currency of Slovakia

International title: SKK

Slovak Crown is 100 gelleram. The circulation contains coins in dignity 10, 20 and 50 gelleries and 1, 2, 5 and 10 kroons (SK) and bills of dignity 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000 kroons. Czechoslovak coins and bills are invalid.

Eurocard credit cards, MasterCard are accepted in almost all banks, as well as Visa, American Express and Eurocheque. They are accepted in most large hotels, at gas stations, less often - in restaurants and shops. ATMs are becoming increasingly distributed in Slovakia, although outside large cities It is better not to count on them. Slovak ATMs are usually connected to MasterCard International Payment Systems, Visa, Plus, Maestro, Cirrus.

Visa

To obtain a visa to Slovakia requires:
- a passport with a personal signature of the owner who is valid 6 months after the end of the trip;
- 1 color photo 3.5 x 4.5 and questionnaire with a personal signature of the tourist;
- visa for children under 15 years old - is made free
- When execution of 15 years, paid for adult.
- A questionnaire to fill the questionnaire to receive a visa.

Customs restrictions

The import and export of national and foreign currency is not limited (the declaration is required if the amount exceeds 150 thousand crowns or its equivalent in currency). When removing currency, it is necessary to submit a document on its origin.

A duty-free import (including shipment in email) to 200 pcs. cigarettes or 100 thin cigars, or 50 conventional cigars, or 250 grams of smoking tobacco, up to 1 l of strong alcoholic beverages (a strength of 38%), up to 2 liters of wine, up to 50 ml of perfumes, up to 250 ml of toilet water, as well as personal things Use of no more than 30 thousand crowns. Tobacco products can be imported only by persons over 16 years old, alcoholic - over 18 years old. Medicines and medicines are duty free of charge in the amount required to ensure minimal personal needs.

Voltage in the network

Tip

Tips in restaurants make up about 10% of the account cost. Give them or not - at the discretion of the tourist.

Work hours of institutions

Banks work daily, except Sunday, from 9 to 11 h and from 14 to 16 hours. On Saturday - up to 12 hours. Exchange items on weekdays are usually operating from 7-8 hours to 17-19 hours with a clock lunch (some - around the clock ). On the weekend, the work schedule is usually from 8 to 12 hours.

Most stores are open daily, except Sunday, from 9 to 18 h (large universes and shopping centers on Thursday usually work until 19-21 hours). On Saturday, most shops are open from 8 to 12 hours.

Safety

Street robbers and pocket theft are quite rare, but those and others are also possible in urban transport. Also, it should also be especially careful about the storage of ski equipment and photo and video cameras.

Country code: +421

Geographical domain name of the first level: .sk

Emergency phones

Police - 158.
Emergency and ambulance system on roads - 154
Ambulance - 155
Fire Protection - 150

The content of the article

SLOVAKIA,Slovak Republic, a state in Central Europe, formed on January 1, 1993 after the collapse of the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic (CSFR). From 1918 to 1992 inclusive - part of Czechoslovakia; Until 1918 - For almost nine centuries, part of Hungary. Area of \u200b\u200bthe country 49 035 square meters. km, population - 5.34 million people (1995). It borders in the north with Poland, in the East - with Ukraine, in the south - with Hungary, in the West - with Austria and the Czech Republic. The capital is the city of Bratislava. see also Czechoslovakia.

ECONOMY

Since 1990 in Slovakia, which was part of the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic, began the transition from the centralized planned system of farm to the market economy.

In 1990-1992, 9,500 small businesses were sold at the auctions, mainly retailers and service sectors. By the beginning of 1993, there was approx. 16 thousand private enterprises, of which approximately 2 thousand were joint joint-stock enterprises, and 800 belonged to foreign companies. The privatization of large and medium-sized state-owned enterprises in 1993 was carried out by issuing and selling vouchers.

In 1991, there was a decline in the economic development of the Slovak economy as a result of a sharp decrease in foreign trade, the transition to market relations and the almost complete absence of the inflow of foreign investment. In 1992, the value of the gross domestic product (GDP) of Slovakia decreased by 30%, and by 1993 the unemployment rate exceeded 10%. They suffered both agriculture and industry. Agriculture suffered significant losses due to a high cost and decrease in food demand associated with increasing retail prices and a decrease in income of the population, as well as termination of government subsidies. In industry, the reduction in the production of products was especially great in the manufacturing industries.

The conversion of the military industry was a very serious problem for the economy of Slovakia. In a difficult position, 35 engineering enterprises were engaged in the production of military equipment for the Warsaw Treaty countries. Since 1993, after the collapse of the CSFR, Slovakia continued the process of reforming the economy, revising the reform scenario in the direction of strengthening social support and government regulation.

In 1993, GDP amounted to 367.3 billion CZK, in 1994 - 385.0, in 1995 - 414.7 billion crowns. In terms of growth rates, the country was among the leaders of the transitional economies of the Central Europe countries, and in the depth of economic reform, it was published on the sum of the scored points in the assessment of the market measures taken to fourth after Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic. In 1996, the country provided high growth rates of GDP (6.9%), a further increase in manufacturing production (2.5%), construction (3.7%), agriculture (2.3%). There was a decrease in inflation (up to 5.9%), unemployment decreased somewhat (up to 12.6%). The share of the private sector in the creation of GDP increased noticeably (76% against 63% in 1995). The main source of economic growth was an increase in internal consumption: with a decrease in the share of exports to GDP to 57.5%, the proportion of imports, on the contrary, increased by reaching 68.1%.

Positive macroeconomic results that have been expressed for several years of GDP growth have not led to a noticeable increase in the life level of the majority of the country's population.

Foreign trade and investment.

In 1989, 67% of Slovakia's exports were sent to the USSR and other Eastern European countries and 27% to the countries of the European Union and other countries of Western Europe. In the same year, 50% of all imports came from Eastern Europe and 32% of Western Europe. By 1993, the picture has changed: 53% of Slovakia's exports were sent to Western European countries and 35% to Eastern Europe, at the same time 46% of all imports were received from Western Europe and 42% from Eastern Europe. The main articles of the Slovak exports are semi-finished products for the manufacturing industry, machinery and products of the chemical industry. The main articles of import are cars and various types of fuel.

Foreign investment since 1990 turned out to be less than it could be expected. By 1993, they achieved only 234 million dollars. The main investors are FRG, Austria and the USA. Already in 1996, the deterioration of the state of affairs in the financial and budget sector and in the field of foreign trade. Slovakian state budget deficit increased to 4.4% of GDP (against 1.6% in 1995). The volume of mutual non-payment in the economic sphere, which has shown in 1995 by 32% compared with the previous year, in 1996 increased by 16 billion crowns and reached 102 billion crowns.

If in 1995 the trade balance was reduced with a small positive balance (1.79 billion kroons), in 1996, in the conditions of preemptive import growth, a huge trade deficit in the amount of 64.5 billion crowns arose. In order to limit the growth of the negative balance of trade and payment balances, the Slovak government in July 1997 introduced 7% imported premium, covering it more than 75% of all imported goods, and also took a number of other measures to reduce imports. In 1997, exports increased by 9.9%, and the import of only 4.5%.

In 1996, the foreign debt of Slovakia increased from 5.8 to 7.8 billion dollars, and by the end of 1997 amounted to about $ 10.27 billion; The trend of its growth has not ceased in 1999. At the same time, its main part was the debt of enterprises and commercial banks.

Monetary system.

The monetary unit is freely convertible Slovak Crown. Inflation during this period ranged from 10 to 15% per year. By 1993, Slovakia's foreign debt was 3.3 billion dollars. In 1997, inflation in the country, despite the slowdown in imports and increase some regulated prices, amounted to only 6.5-6.7%, slightly exceeding the previous year's figure (5.8% ).

In 1996, foreign exchange reserves of the country increased, but their growth was significantly lower than the growth of the external debt of Slovakia, which increased by $ 2 billion. And by the end of 1996 reached $ 7.2 billion (from them the national debt - 1.7 billion dollars .). At the same time, Slovakia, in terms of external debt, recalculate per capita ($ 1360), differs markedly from other countries of Central Europe (for the Czech Republic, this indicator is $ 2,300, for Hungary - $ 3,000).

HISTORY

The history of Slovakia is divided into four major periods: the period preceding the Hungarian conquest of 10 c.; the era of the Hungarian Board until 1918; Czechoslovak period (1918-1992) and the period of the independent Slovak Republic (from January 1, 1993). The ancestors of modern Slovaks settled the southern slopes of the Carpathian approximately from 5 V. In the 9th century A Velikoyeravskaya Power was created, which included Slovaks and their neighbors - Czechs. Apostles Slavs Kirill and Methodius in 9th century. Outlovakov in Christianity. At the beginning of the 10th century. During the invasion of Hungarians, the Velikomolevskaya Power was destroyed. Slovakia, separated from Czech and Moravian lands, fell under the board of Hungarians.

Hungarian rule.

The country conquered by Hungary was inhabited mainly by peasants. Hungary behaved in relation to the Slovaks as a defeated people. At 13th century The territory of Slovakia was subjected to the devastating invasion of the Mongols invaded in Hungary. Later with the advent of immigrants (mainly from Germany), the economic development of Slovak lands began. Growing cities, a class of Slovak burers appeared. In 13-14 centuries. Communication between Slovaks and Czechs were restored. Gusite movement in the Czech Republic touched and Slovakia.

The result of the victory of the Turks under Mohach in 1526 was the section of the Hungarian kingdom into three regions: the central authority of the Turks, Transylvania under the control of local princes, and so-called. Royal Hungary under the authority of the Habsburgs; Slovakia turned out to be the latter. Slovakia held a central position in the Hungarian kingdom, and Bratislava was the capital of Habsburg to the final expulsion of the Turks and the liberation of the whole Hungary at the end of the 17th century. Protestantism was distributed in the region, but at Habsburgs, the forces of Catholic counteraction were activated.

The period of enlightened absolutism under the Emperor Joseph II (rules in 1765-1790) was particularly important for the development of Slovakia. Although social reforms and religious tolerance had a beneficial effect on Slovakia, the introduction german language In Hungary, the perturbation of the local population caused, which in turn had affected Slovaks. The growth of the Hungarian national self-consciousness contributed to the Slovak national revival; Such a movement took place among the Czechs. Such Slovak writers, like Yang Collar and Joseph Shafirik, played the same important role in Czech, and in Slovak Reborn. Both wrote in classical Czech language. Some writers began to use the Slovak dialect as a literary language. It was a reaction to the Policy of Hungary, which in 1836 announced as official only Hungarian. In 1845, the Slovak writer and Patriot, Louis Schur, began to publish the first periodic publication in Slovak - "Slovak People's Gazeta."

The patriotic rise and the spread of revolutionary ideas in Hungary continued to have a stimulating effect on the Slovak patriotic movement. In the course of the revolution, 1848 developed the program "Requirements of the Slovak People" - the first expression of the political requirements of Slovaks. The program urged to use the Slovak language in schools, vessels, local governments, as well as elect Slovak parliament on the basis of universal election law. This led to the confrontation of Slovaks and Hungarians; Some Slovak revolutionaries moved to Prague. The defeat of the Hungarian revolution and the victory of the Austrian reaction did not improve the position of the Slovaks. In 1861, the Memorandum of Slovak People was adopted, which contained the requirement of local autonomy. The cultural and educational society "Matitsa Slovak" was founded.

The creation of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (1867) increased the dependence of Slovaks from Budapest. Hungarians, inspired by the idea of \u200b\u200buniting its part of the empire, made a policy of madialarization with great zeal. "Matitsa Slovak" and Slovak higher education institutions were closed, Slovak language was allowed only in primary schools. Political discrimination continued, Slovak deputies were extremely rarely elected to the Hungarian Parliament. There were no mechanisms for the formation of the Slovak Elite; The role of the political leader often took over the clergy. On the eve of World War I, Slovak Patriots worked closely with other peoples of the Austro-Hungarian Empire; It was at that time that the idea of \u200b\u200bcreating a Czechoslovak state began to take clear outlines.

During the First World War, the Czechs and Slovaks made the requirement of a single state. Slovak General Milan Stuffan, together with Czech leaders, Tomasha Masarik and Edward Benevem spent the years of war in the West, seeking support from France and the UK. In the Slovak itself to create new country Called the priest Andrei Glinka and Vavro Schrobar; Milan Godju became the herald of Czechoslovak and Slovak Interests in Vienna. As soon as the independence movement has gained strength inside Slovakia and abroad, Slovaks in the United States made an initiative to sign an agreement with Czechs containing plans to create a Czechoslovak state. The Pittsburgh Declaration on May 30, 1918, signed in the presence of Mazarik, did not have the status of the official document; It said that Slovakia should be an autonomous part of the new state with his own parliament, administration, judicial system, as an official was supposed to use the Slovak language.

The formation of Czechoslovakia.

The Czech National Council on October 28, 1918 proclaimed the independence of Czechoslovakia in Prague, and on October 30, Slovak National Council in Necanski-Sveti Martin (Martin) announced the separation of Slovakia from Hungary and creating a Czechoslovak state (TN Martin Declaration). The joint state was recreated on the basis of the association of two peoples after the ten centuries of separation, but the question of clear relationships between them remained open. In constitutional debates, a centralist trend won the support of most Czechs. Czechoslovakia was proclaimed by a single and indivisible republic. The idea of \u200b\u200ba single nation using a common language has found support in Prague, and in part of the Slovak population. And yet the centralist nature of the new republic did not suit many citizens of Slovakia, first of all supporters of the People's Party Glinka, as well as Joseph Tiso, who were demanding complete autonomy for this part of the country and received 32% of the votes of Slovaks in the 1925 elections. Part of the votes in Slovakia received Also more moderate parties opposed to autonomy. Catholics played a leading role in more extremist movements.

As a result, the Slovak question turned into a central problem of the new state, and antagonism and tensions in relations between Czechs and Slovaks often obscured genuine achievements in the development of Slovakia. Some of her most moderate leaders occupied high posts in the Czechoslovak government.

In 1938 after the Munich Agreement, many Slovaks from among the extremist wing of autonomists made the requirements of the full separation from the Czechoslovak state. As a result of this agreement, a line was prevailed for the dismemberment of Czechoslovakia; Hungary and Poland joined part of the territory of Slovakia. When in March 1939, Hitler captured Prague, German and Slovak Nazis created a separate Slovak state. His government was a Nazi dictatorship led by the President of Tiso. Later, Slovak troops were sent to the Soviet-German front to demonstrate the support of the German invasion of the USSR.

During the war years, some Slovak leaders (Stefan Osusha, Jurai Slavik, etc.) collaborated with the emigrant government of Czechoslovakia, headed by Banesem; A group of Slovak Communists who did not have a big influence in Slovakia launched active activities in Moscow. In December 1943, the Slovak National Council was created, which was at the head of the underground resistance movement, in which communist and noncommunist forces participated. The Council opposed the TISI regime, recognized the need to restore Czechoslovakia on the basis of an equal partnership between Czechs and Slovak and began to prepare an armed uprising. It began in August 1944 in the city of Bansk-Bistritar under the guidance of partisan communists. Despite the help provided by the Soviet attack from Poland, the Slovak partisans were defeated by superior German troops.

At the end of the war, Slovak National Council took control of all Slovakia. Using the slogans of Slovak nationalism, the Communists sought to keep power, but in the 1946 elections, the non-communist parties received 63% of the places in the Council. Then the Communists changed their tactics, making a bid not to conviction, but on violence; Mass arrests began in the country. After capturing the power of the Communists in 1948, Slovakia for the first time received a wide autonomy, which was largely triggered. Slovakia sovereignty has become one of the main goals of the liberation movement of 1968 in Czechoslovakia. Despite the invasion of August 1968 in Czechoslovakia of the Armed Forces of the Warsaw Treaty countries, on October 30, 1968, a constitutional law was adopted, which established a federal state in Czechoslovakia. The new law, which came into force on January 1, 1969, provided the broad powers of the Czech and Slovak regional administrations, established a two-bearet national assembly, in one of the chambers of which the Czechs and Slovaks had an equal representation.

Demonstrations in November 1989 put an end to the Communist Board. In the Czech Republic, a civilian forum (GF) arose, and in Slovakia - the public against violence (OPON). The country received a new name - the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic. In the 1990 elections, the OPN and Christian-Democratic Movement (HDD) scored the greatest number of votes.

On the way to independence.

At the end of 1990, the Federal Parliament provided Slovakia the right to dispose of his budget without deciding on the guarantees of its sovereignty. In 1991, federal, Czech and Slovak government circles held a series of meetings, which addressed the issues of providing the autonomy of Slovakia, but the agreement was not achieved. The movement of the OPN split, in particular on the issue of separatism, and in the 1992 elections a new organization of patriotic forces - a movement for democratic Slovakia (Dzzz, founded in 1991) - received most places in Slovak legislative Body. In June 1992, the leaders of the federal, Czech and Slovak governments came to an agreement on the peaceful division of Czechoslovakia. January 1, 1993 there were two independent states: the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic.

Slovak Republic after 1993

After the design of Slovakia as a sovereign political subject, the development of its political system was characterized by the processes of regrouping and polarization of the forces. The initial period of the political history of the Slovak Republic is associated with the name of Prime Minister Vladimir Schiara. During the first term of stay as Prime Minister (January 1993 - March 1994), the sword was swore for gradually in conducting privatization. In addition, taking twice the post of Prime Minister, as well as important economic posts in the government, the swords provided big influence On foreign policy, which led to the exacerbation of relations with Hungary. Joseph Merevichik, who was previously a minister of foreign affairs in the Government of the Sword, made accusations of his address and in early March 1994 the sword did not receive support in the Slovak National Council when discussing the issue of vote.

On March 16, Murevik was elected head of the temporary coalition government, which includes representatives of the following opposition parties: Democratic Union (DS), party of left democrats (PDD), Christian-Democratic Movement (HDD) and National Democratic Party (NDP). However, the victory of the opponents of the swords turned out to be short-term: the opposition did not have enough time to create a real alternative to the sword. In September 1994, early parliamentary elections were scheduled.

The first national elections in Slovakia after independence was received on September 30 - October 1, 1994. 18 parties and movements and 76% of all registered voters took part in them. The prevailing number of votes was the movement for democratic Slovakia of V. Machyar. Block "General Choice" (PLD, Social Democratic Party of Slovakia, Green Party, Agrarian Movement) received 10, 41% of voter votes (18 mandates), Hungarian Coalition (Hungarian Christian-Democratic Movement, Coexistence Movement and Hungarian Civil Party) - 10.18% (17 mandates), HDD - 10.08% (17 mandates), Democratic Union - 8.57% (15 mandates), unification of working Slovakia - 7.34% (13 mandates), Slovak National Party - 5.4% (9 mandates).

Dzzz leads his beginning from the movement of the "public against violence" (OPN), which arose after the "velvet revolution". The sword was one of the founders of the OPN and held the post of the Minister of the Interior in the Slovak Government in January - June 1990. During the debates about the future of Czechoslovakia in March 1991, Saryar survived his first political defeat and was forced to resign from the post of Prime Minister of Slovakia, because He was accused of damaging the Czech-Slovak relations with his position with the full autonomy of Slovakia. The sword was released from the Rows of the OPN and organized Dzzz.

The swords remained in power from 1994 to 1998. At that time, he was involved in a protracted struggle with President Mikhal Kovache, his former associate to create a Dzzz and his opponent in the presidential election. On September 25-26, 1998, parliamentary elections took place in the country, in which 17 parties took part. The opposition was opposed to the sword in the struggle for power, the Slovak Democratic Coalition (SDK), which united five parties, including Christian Conservatives, the Party of Green and Socialists; She was headed by Mikulas Dzurinda. SDK received OK. 23% of the votes, and the parties who were in opposition to the sword scored about two thirds of the places in the National Assembly (93 of 150).

In addition, the Civil Consignment Party (PGS), led by Rudolph Schuster, were presented in the National Assembly; The CenterRist Christian-Democratic Party (HDP); Party of the Left Democrats (PLD), the succession of the Slovak Communist Party led by Joseph Migash, which received 15% of the vote in the elections; consisting of three parties coalition of Hungarian parties (qC). Although Dzzz led by the sword was supported by 27% of votes votes, i.e. More than any other party, she lost almost a quarter of the previous electorate. The partner of the coalition - the Slovak Workers Party (PSA) - scored only 1% of the votes, did not overcome 5% of the barrier necessary for representation in parliament. Slovak National Party (SNP), another member of the coalition of Dzzz, received 9% of the vote. Having received 57 seats in the National Assembly (together with the SNP), the sword was not re-elected to the post of Prime Minister.

In the spring of 1999, a political crisis was resolved in Slovakia related to the lack of (from March 2, 1998) of the President of the country: Mikhal Kovach, elected by the parliamentary majority in 1993, entered into a conflict with the Prime Minister of the country V. Mechyar, left his post. The victims defeated in the parliamentary elections in September 1998, the swordar stated his care from the political scene, but after the adoption of the Slovak Parliament in January 1999, decisions on holding direct nationwide elections of the president, put forward his candidacy. His support was the parliamentary opposition, mainly Dzzz, who scores the largest number of votes (approx 500 thousand at 3 million voting). The opponent was the mayor of Kosice 65-year-old Rudolf Schuster, in the past, chairman of the Slovak Parliament in Czech Republic, member of the Central Committee of the Committee of Slovakia. Schuster, Candidate of the Government Coalition, received in the second round of elections (May 30, 1999) 57% of the vote, while the swordar - 32%. The presidential election has strengthened the position of the parliamentary majority, and also strengthened the pro-Western country rate in foreign policy: it was announced about the desire to join NATO as quickly as possible (in the spring-summer 1999 the government supported NATO during military operation against Yugoslavia, providing airfields and transport communications to West countries and Refusing to provide air corridors to the aircraft of Russia) and to the European Union (tightening monetarist course and coagulate trade relations with Russia and neighboring countries).

Slovakia - Samea detailed information About country with photo. Attractions, cities of Slovakia, climate, geography, population and culture.

Slovakia (Slovensko)

Slovakia - small state In Central Europe, which does not have access to the sea. The official name is the Slovak Republic. Slovakia borders with Austria in the West, the Czech Republic in the North-West, Hungary in the south, Poland in the north and Ukraine in the east. He is the parliamentary republic and a state with a dynamically developing economy.

Slovakia is a country in the heart of Europe, which has a stunning nature. Here you can find a wide variety of landscapes: mountains, hills, plains, river valleys. Also Slovakia is a charming province, beautiful historical cities and magnificent vintage castles. Despite the fact that the actual Slovak state was founded only in 1993, the country has a rich cultural and historical heritage and, of course, is a very interesting and affordable tourist destination.

Useful information about Slovakia

  1. Population - 5.4 million people.
  2. Area - 49 034 km².
  3. Currency - euro.
  4. Language - Slovak.
  5. Visa - Schengen.
  6. Time - Central European (UTC +1, in summer +2).
  7. Holidays: Day of the Slovak Republic (January 1), Epiphany (January 6), Easter (usually April-May), Easter Monday (next day after Easter), May Day (May 1), Victory Day over fascism (May 8), Saint Day Cyril and Methodius (July 5), the day of the Slovak National uprising (August 29), the day of the Constitution (September 1), the day of the Mother of God of Seven Sorrow (September 15), the day of all saints (November 1), the day of the struggle for freedom and democracy (November 17 ), Christmas (December 24-26).
  8. Tax Free can be returned from 175.01 euros.
  9. Slovakia is considered one of the safest countries in Europe.

Geography and Nature

Slovakia is located in the east of Central Europe. From the north and northeast, its territory surrounds Western Carpathians. The highest mountains of Slovakia are high tatras, among which highest top Countries - Gerlakhovski-Stitt (2655 m). South of the Carpathians are hills and elevations separated by river valleys. In the south-west stretches the middlenay lowland. The largest rivers of Slovakia are Danube, Vag, Nitra, Tisa, Morava.


The wildlife of Slovakia is quite extensive and diverse. Forests occupy 40% of the country's territory. The largest forest arrays are located in mountainous areas. In the south, mostly, these large forests (oak and beech) or mixed, in the north and northern slopes are growing coniferous forests (spruce and fir). Alpine meadows are replaced in the mountains above in the mountains. In the forests of Slovakia live: deer, lynx, wolves, bears, foxes, hares, squirrels.

Climate

Slovakia has a more continental climate than the neighboring Czech Republic. Summer is hotter here and land, and winter is noticeably cooler. The greatest amount of precipitation falls in mountainous areas. Also in the mountains summer is cooler, and the winter is much colder.


Best time to visit

Slovakia can be attended all year round. But, traditionally, the most optimal from the point of view of the weather will be the period from May to September.

History

Slavic tribes settled the territory of Slovakia in the 6th century. In the 7th century, these lands were included in the state itself, and later included in the Nitrans Principality. In the future, Slovakia has become part of the Slavic state, the Great Moravia, which has reached its heyday in the 9th century. In the 11th century, the Slovak territories were included in the Kingdom of Hungary. Under the Hungarian influence Slovakia was under the 14th century.

From a political point of view, Slovakia was ruled by a number of semi-dependent Hungarian nobles. At the end of the 15th century, the country turned into one of the most developed provinces of Hungary.


The defeat of the Hungarians in 1526 from the Turks led to the formation of Austria-Hungary. Under the threat of invasion of the Ottoman Empire, Habsburg was even postponed by the capital of Hungary in Bratislav.

Later, Slovakia became part of the empire of the Habsburgs. As part of Austria-Hungary, the country was until 1918. After World War I, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Subcarpathian Rus formed a single state - Czechoslovakia, which existed until 1938. Then Slovakia became a separate state under the control of Nazi Germany. In 1945, Czechoslovakia was restored and was under the control of the USSR. In 1989, the velvet revolution led to the formation of two states - the Czech Republic and Slovakia. January 1, 1993 is the date of education by the independent Slovak Republic. In 2004, the country became part of the European Union.

Administrative division


Slovakia in the administrative plane consists of 8 edges:

  • Bratislavsky Kraj (Bratislavský kraj)
  • Trnavský kraj (Trnavský kraj)
  • Trencinsky Kraj (Trenciansky Kraj)
  • NITRIANSKY KRAJ (Nitriansky Kraj)
  • Zilinsky Kraj (žilinský kraj)
  • Banskobystrický kraj)
  • Prešovski (Prešovský kraj)
  • Košický Kraj (Košický kraj)

The edges, in turn, are divided into obsessions (areas).


In the Regional Plan, the territory of Slovakia can be divided into three regions:

  • Western Slovakia (Bratislava, Nitra, Trnava, Trencin) is the most urbanized region of the country, which is located in the Danube Valley and his tributaries. It is a hilly plain with forest arrays.
  • Central Slovakia (Zilina, Teplice) is a mountainous region with small cities, medieval mines and national parks.
  • Eastern Slovakia (Kosice, Presov) is the most high-mountainous region of Slovakia with agricultural pastures and extensive forests.

Population

Most of the population of Slovakia make up ethnic Slovaks (85%). Also very significantly (especially in southern regions) Hungarian population (9%). Other large diasporas: Gypsies, Ukrainians, Germans, Russians, Poles. The official language of the country is Slovak, who belongs to the group of Slavic languages. Slovak language is very similar to Czech, but this is not his dialect. These are two different, independent languages. Slovaks are very proud of them, so even in tourist places All the symbols are written in Slovak.


Slovaks of religious Chekhov, but less religious than Poles. Most of the population (70%) confess Catholicism. Slovaks are hospitable, friendly and calm. However, under no circumstances, tourists should not call Slovaks with "Czechs" and carry out parallels between them. It is also better to avoid tilting topics of the communist past and national problems. If Slovaks invite you for lunch or dinner, then a good tone will capture some gift (wine, candy, cake). In the house (like us) it is customized to shoot shoes and upper clothes.

Transport

The largest airports of Slovakia are located in Bratislava and Kosice. You can also use the airport of Vienna (which is located not far from Bratislava) and Krakow (for trips to Tatras). The largest cities of Slovakia have a regular railway communication with Czech Republic (Prague, Brno, Ostrava, Olomouc), Austria (Vienna), Hungary (Budapest), Poland (Krakow), Germany. By bus, other than those listed countries, in Slovakia can be reached from Italy, Great Britain, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium, France.


Slovakia has a rather developed bus and railway network. Main transport hubs: Bratislava, Kosice, Zilina. The bus, often, is a faster way of movement. Also Slovakia has about 700 km of motorways and high-speed roads. For travel on them you need to buy a vignette, which is sold at special points and gas stations. The motorway (Diaľnice) and high-speed routes (Rýchlostné Cesty) are denoted by letters D and R on a red or white background. The speed outside the settlements on them is limited to 130 km / h. On other roads outside the settlements - 90 km / h, in settlements - 50 km / h.

  • OSOBNý VLAK (OS) - Slow trains that resemble our train.
  • Regionálny EXPRES (Rex) - Internal trains connecting regions.
  • Regionálny Rýchlik (RR) - fast internal trains with more short routes and stops.
  • Rýchlik (R) - regular domestic and international routes.
  • Express (EX) - International and Internal Trains of High Categories.
  • EURONIGHT (EN) - International Night Trains.
  • EUROCITY (EC) - International Trains High Categories.
  • INTERCITY (IC) - high-speed internal trains, running from Bratislava in Kosice.
  • REGIOJET (RJ) - the train of the same name.
  • Leo Express (LE) - the train of the same name.
  • Supercity (SC) - high-speed train of Czech Railways.

Cities of Slovakia


Popular cities of Slovakia:

  • Bratislava is the capital and the largest city of Slovakia with a beautifully renovated historical center, full of gothic, baroque and renaissance churches, palaces, cobbled streets and parks.
  • - One of the most important historical mining cities and an important center of Slovak culture, which is known for beautiful historical square, ancient churches, castles and museums.
  • - The second largest city of Slovakia and the largest urban agglomeration in the east of the country. Here is the eastern Gothic Cathedral in Europe, and the historic center of the city contains many old buildings and several interesting museums.
  • Nitra is the oldest city in Slovakia with a magnificent historical heritage and picturesque surroundings.
  • Prelov is an old city, the historical core of which is the best sample of the Architecture of the Renaissance in Slovakia. Also there is a salt mine.
  • Trencin is one of the most charming cities of Slovakia with a picturesque castle.
  • Trnava is an ancient city with a large number of churches and well-preserved architecture in the Baroque style.
  • Zilina - the fourth largest city of Slovakia with a beautiful historical center, which is full of buildings with a significant influence of German architecture.

Popular directions:

  • Bardoev is a resort town in the north-east of Slovakia with numerous cultural monuments and a completely intact medieval center, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • High Tatras - the country's largest national park and the center of winter sports.
  • - The magnificent medieval pearl in Eastern Slovakia, still surrounded by urban walls, within which there are a unique Town Hall of the Renaissance, houses in the style of German architecture and numerous churches.
  • Piestany - the most famous resort city of Slovakia.
  • Slovak Carsman - a national park, a well-known network of natural caves included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
  • Spisska Nova-Weight is a charming medieval city in Eastern Slovakia.
  • Slkolinets - a small traditional Carpathian village in the Zilino region, which is a UNESCO object.
  • Wooden church of Slovak Karpat - a collection of ancient churches of the 16th - 18th centuries, which are located in the northern part of the country and are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Sightseeing Slovakia


The Spiser Fortress is a stunning castle of the 12th century, which is considered one of the largest medieval defensive structures in Europe (by area). It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site List and located in the eastern part of the country near the city of Levoche.


Levoca is a magnificent ancient city, the historical center of which is still surrounded by the fortress walls, contains many monuments of the Middle Ages, as well as countless gothic and renaissance houses. Therefore, most of its medieval core is considered to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


High Tatras is the highest mountain range in Slovakia, which forms its natural border with Poland. This region is famous for scenic nature, magnificent landscapes and ski resorts.


Slovak Cars. Domitsa Cave

Slovak Karst - National Park, which includes more than 700 caves and included in the World Heritage List. The biggest of them is the cave of the house.


Trencin Castle - Royal Castle, which is one of the largest medieval monuments in Slovakia. Built on top of a steep cliff and has a centuries-old history that goes back to the 11th century.

With this castle connected beautiful legend: In the distant past, Vladyka Castle Stefan Removsky captured the beautiful Turkish princess Fatima. One Turkish Vizier (or Prince) Omar, who loved Fatima, arrived with the cargo of gold to redeem her. However, the Lord of the Castle demanded that it was dug a well inside the fortress. Omar took four years to get water from a solid rock.


Oravsky Castle - a harsh and majestic fortress, built on a high rocky rock over a winding river Orava. This is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval castles in Slovakia, built in the 13th century.


Banska-Bistrita - historical city With a magnificent heritage, including vintage mansions, churches and fortifications. The city is surrounded by majestic low tatras, which helped him become a popular winter holiday destination.


The Boynitsky Castle is one of the most visited and beautiful castles not only in Slovakia, but also in Central Europe. Built on a large travertine rock on site of the medieval castle of the 11th century. The current building was reconstructed in the 19th century for the sample of the Romantic Loire castles in Central France.


Bratislava castle is a magnificent monument of history, which has been towering over the capital of Slovakia for a thousand years. The first fortifications here arose still in the prehistoric era and were built by Celts. The fortress was founded by the Slavs in the times of Great Moravia. The stone palace and the church were built on the castle grief in the 11th century. Three centuries, the castle was rebuilt in the Gothic style. In the 16th - 17th century, this construction has acquired modern features (in the Renaissance and Baroque style).


Love Castle - a picturesque fortress on a limestone rock, built at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries. This fortification facility has become part of the border locking system in the north of the Hungarian kingdom. In addition to the protection of the Polish-Hungarian border, its task was to ensure the security of an important trading path. Modern view The Renaissance Fortress Castle acquired in the 16th century.


Chicmans are a beautifully preserved Carpathian village, which looks the same as hundreds of years ago. It is full of black wooden houses, each of which is decorated with complex traditional patterns made by white lime paint. The first mention of the village date back to the 13th century, although most buildings have a year 200-300 years.


Cathedral of St. Elizabeth - the largest church in Slovakia and the most Eastern Gothic Cathedral in Europe. Located in the heart of Kosice and dates back to the 14th - 15th century.

Accommodation

Slovakia offers many accommodation options. Here you can find a large number of inexpensive hostels and hotels. From the point of view of accommodation costs - this is one of the most affordable countries of Central Europe. At the same time, the provinces (small towns and villages) housing prices are even lower. Luxury hotels can be found in major cities and in well-known resort areas (for example, in the tatras).


Kitchen

Slovak cuisine is focused on simple and hearty dishes. Its main ingredients is: cheese, meat (pork, beef, bird), potatoes, products from the dough (dumplings, dumplings, etc.). The main national dish is Bryndzové Halušky (potato dumplings with cheese and bacon). Other traditional Slovak dishes: Pirohy (dumplings with meat), sauerkraut soup, Bryndzové Pirohy (dumplings with sheep cheese), Guláš (beef with vegetables), Hubová Polievka (Mushroom Soup), Kuracia Polievka (Chicken Soup), Hovädzia Polievka (Beef Boulevice Soup), Krémová Cesnačka (Cream Soup), Paprikas (Chicken Skill Soup in Paprika Sauce), Rezen (Schnitzel), Čiernohorsky Rezen (Schnitzel in Potato Dumpling) and Sviečková on Smotane (Beef Clipping in sour cream sauce with dumplings).


The most popular drink in Slovakia is beer (Pivo). Here is a wide variety of excellent local varieties similar to style and quality on well-known Czech brands. Also in Slovakia there is a good local wine. The main winery is Tokay, located in the south-east of the country. Also grapes are grown in small carpathians. In addition, Slovakia is known for its tincture: Slivovica (Slivovitsa), Hruškovica (Pereacovitsa) and Demänovka (tincture on herbs) and the famous medical honey.

Every year, millions of tourists seek to get into this country, having the purest air in Europe, spectacular nature and old fabulous locks - in excellent and unique Slovakia.

Slovakia is located in Central Europe. The largest cities are the capital of Bratislava states, as well as cities Kosice, Nitra, Presov, Trnava, Banska-Bystrica, Trencin. Most of the population by nationality of the Slovak, but there are also Hungarians, Poles, Ukrainians, Gypsies, Germans, Rusins \u200b\u200band Jews. Slovakia can be called a rather religious country: besides Catholicism, the residents of the country profess Lutheranism, Grechocatolyticism (Uniate) and Orthodoxy.

The territory of the current Slovakia was populated by Slavic tribes in the V century, later it was part of the set of powers ( Self, Great Moravia, Austria-Hungary, Czechoslovakia). On January 1, 1993, Slovakia gained independence, and on May 1, 2004 he became a member of the European Union.

Today Slovakia is considered a developed agrarian-industrial country actively developing in the tourist direction.

Capital
Bratislava

Number of population

5 405 338 people.

Population density

110 people / km²

slovak

Religion

catholicism

Form of government

parliamentary republic

Timezone

UTC + 1 (summer UTC + 2)

International Area Code

Domain zone on the Internet

Electricity

Climate and weather

Slovakia is located in the zone of moderately continental climate, like most of the Central Europe, which is characterized by a cold snowy winter and a warm comfortable summer. There are quite a few precipitation in the mountains, which cannot be said about the lowland part of the country located in the valleys Danube.

The average winter air temperature in Slovakia ranges from 0 to -5 ° C. In the mountains, as a rule, it is frosty sunny weather, and in lowlands at this time foggy and cloudy. In December, the winter tourist season begins, which lasts until mid-March, when the air temperature warms up to + 5 ... + 10 ° C.

In Slovakia, Spring Floods, which happen due to melting of snow in Tatras And abundance at this time of storm rains, the water level in rivers can rise by more than 2 meters. In recent years, the cases of spring-summer hurricane winds, damaging power lines broke down branches of trees and even sometimes tearing roofs of houses.

Middle summer air temperature in Slovakia does not exceed +25 ° C.. The heat is transferred quite easily due to low air humidity. In the south of the country there are wine-made regions of the country, as warm sunny weather contributes to the full aging of grapes. In the southern warm regions are the largest and most interesting in their architecture of Slovakia: Bratislava, Nitraand Trnava. In the summer and early autumn you can osmat the sights of the vintage cities of Slovakia, to visit unique caves, as well as make an unforgettable wine tour in the country.

Nature

Slovakia is rich in charming mountain ranges, motivated alpine meadows, mysterious caves, rapid waterfalls, endless forests, serene river valleys and bottomless lakes.

Mountain peaks of Western Carpathians surround Slovakia from the north and northeast. High tatras are the highest part of them. There is also located pic Gerlakhovski-Shtit (2655 m) - highest mountain in Slovakia and in all carpathians. South settled hills cut through beautiful river valleys. The largest and beautiful rivers in Slovakia are VAG, HRR and NITRATSwho fall into Danube.

The southern part of the country is occupied by the Middle Indian Lowland, known for its fertile soils, on which grapes, fruits, wheat, potatoes, sugar beets, sunflower, corn and rye are grown.

About 40% of the territory of the country are occupied by the forest. On the southern slopes of the mountains are mostly oaks, beech and other broader breeds. Primitive beech forests of Slovakia are included in the list of UNESCO world heritage, they live the greatest number of predators in Europe. The forests of the northern slopes of the mountains consist of coniferous rocks: fir, fir, pine, larch. Nine national parks operate in Slovakia ( Tatras, Polonins, Slovak Cars et al.) In which many tourist pedestrian trails and cycling routes are laid.

sights

In the popularity and attendance in the first place, of course, it is the capital of Slovakia Bratislava, the main attraction of which is the castle Bratislavsky Grad.. Tourists like to admire the beautiful architectural monuments of different eras, to walk along the Danube to Castle Devin, where the Rivers of the Danube and Morava merge, at the same time contemplate the landscapes of three countries (Slovakia, Austria and Hungary) from the height of a hail hill.

The second largest city of Slovakia - Kosice - In 2013, it will become the cultural capital of Europe. Among the numerous interesting architectural monuments of the city, the most ambitious and interesting is the Gothic saint Elizabeth Cathedral, widely known for its luxury indoor decoration.

The beautiful city of Slovakia can with confidence called Trencin. On narrow loop streets of the city, travelers will find many beautiful churches and old buildings. With Samoa | high Point Cities on modern bustle looks majestic Trenchyan hail Magnificent castle of the XI century. In Trencin, a number of important cultural events are held annually, such as the Festival of Contemporary Music Pohoda., International Film Festival Art Film. and etc.

Amazing architectural monuments can be found in such cities as:

  • Banska Bystrica - one of the largest and richest architectural and natural monuments the city, the informal capital of Central Slovakia;
  • Bansk sweating - Once the mining town, where gold and silver were mined;
  • Boynice- The most famous city resort with a fabulous castle.

Food

The main ingredients of the Slovak Kitchen are cabbage, potatoes, dairy products and meat. On the plain part of the country they love dishes from corn.

From meat dishes deserve the greatest attention to the dishes from the goose, for example, goose with "Lockers" (Potato cakes). In one of the Slovak towns ( Slovensky Hrob.) even a gastronomic holiday called "Goose Pier", While the test is removed from young wine to a good snack.

In the Slovak cuisine, a reflection of Austro-Hungarian influence was reflected. Thus, the favorite dishes in all three countries are dangling, which are boiled flour balls, mixed with cottage cheese and cheese, as well as potato dumplings and dumplings.

For dessert it is worth trying "Palacins" (pancakes), strudel, "Ovootna cuts"(fruit cake, jelly), etc.

From drinks in Slovakia, local beer and wine produced throughout the country have been detected many centuries.

Slovak beer, although not so famous as Czech, but is not inferior to him in taste. Bratislava, Kosice, Trencin, Presov, Banska Bestrician and many other cities of Slovakia are considered centers of brewing centers, and many other cities of Slovakia, but the oldest brewery is located in the city of Banska Shtyaensica (1473). The most popular brand of Slovak beer includes Zlaty Bazant, Kelt, Topvar, Saris, Martiner, Rezany, URPIN and etc.

In Slovakia, you can find wine for every taste, it is strong wines from Veltliner grape varieties and blaufrankish, possessing a pronounced aroma, and soft Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Tramier Aromatic.

Among the strong alcoholic beverages of Slovakia should be highlighted primarily a kind of fernet liquor, local species Moonshine (Slovevitz, Grushkovitsa, Malinovitsa), "Tatra tea" (infused on herbs alcohol) and Borovka (tincture with a fortress about 45 °).

Accommodation

All major cities and tourist centers of Slovakia, including ski and medical and health resorts, offer their guests a huge selection of all sorts of hotels, hotels, motels, hostels, guest houses and campgrounds. Special popularity among Slovak hotels enjoy family-type hotels that prevail in the southern wine-growing areas of the country, as well as in the fields of spreading agrotourism. In high and low tatras, the number of large hotels is small, there are many guest houses of various levels.

In Bratislava, the minimum cost of living in three-, four- and five-star hotels is respectively 45, 60 and 110 €. In cozy guest houses, rent apartments will be at a minimum 40 € . The average price of one person in Slovakia's hostels per day is about 15 €.

Entertainment and recreation

Tourists who come to Slovakia usually do not arise the question of what to do, because at the stage of travel planning, some are already seeing themselves on skiing or snowboarding, others - with a golf club in the hands of the most difficult and desired well, third mentally It is not necessary in the healing mud bath, the fourth dream of descent into wondrous caves, etc.

Of course, the most popular view of the active recreation in Slovakia is the mountain skiing. Favorite place of many European winter lovers extreme species Sports are high tatras with excellent ski resorts of the highest class Tatranska Lomnica, Strelbsko Pleso and Smokovec. In addition to the ski and sauna tracks of various difficulties, as well as all kinds of lifts, in high tatras, you can make an unforgettable walk on the Lomnitsky peak on the suspension road, walk along the Stewren's cable car - the old Smokovec and ride on the gear railway Shtrbsk Pleso - Tatranska Strine.

Slovak golf courses are becoming increasingly popular among Europeans. Golf is considered a big business sport, because it is not just entertainment is a way to communicate. The first Golf Course in Slovakia appeared in 1908 in high tatras at the Tatransk Slash resort. To date, in several regions of Slovakia, professional fields operate: Club Bernolakovo 6 km from Bratislava is considered the most difficult field in Europe, the club Gray Bear Tale.compare with the best Scottish fields, the Welten-Bach club will delight its visitors with the possibility of night games, etc.

Slovakia is famous for its healing and wellness resorts. A visit to the thermal and mud sources contributes to the active treatment of the musculoskeletal system, getting rid of stress and excess weight in Piestany resorts, sermno, Thermal Corvinus Velkie Medezer, etc.

Slovakia actively develops a unique pleasant and at the same time a very useful view of the rest - visits to thermal water parks. Not far from the ski center is clear in the low tatras there is a water park Tatralandia, where there are swimming pools with thermal and pure heated water, slides, toboggans, playground, children's pool with lock and so on.

Nightlife in Slovakia is most active in Bratislava (clubs Randal Club, Music Gallery U Dežmára, U Ocka) And in the ski resorts, especially among young people, night places of the resort Tatransk Slap are appreciated.

Purchases

The most popular souvenirs among tourists are ceramic products, wooden statuettes, toys and dishes, as well as the ancient folk musical instruments of the Slovak people.

Among Slovak souvenirs allocate "Chrpak", a special wooden mug, decorated with carvings and national ornaments, which was once used for the first sample of sheep milk. In the mountainous areas of the country, the most useful souvenir is "Valashka"A peculiar paint-staff, with which it is easier to move around the mountain paths. And unique Slovaka "Fuyar"(Spirit tool) even got into the UNESCO World Heritage List. A large selection of Slovak souvenirs is presented in Uluv stores located in the most important tourist cities of Slovakia.

Antique shops of Slovakia (Starozitnosti) will delight their buyers with a large selection of beautiful furniture, ancient jewelry, paintings and all of interesting trinkets.

An excellent gift brought from Slovakia will be a bottle of tasty wine produced at a small winery or local brand stamps. Hradne Brandy, Old Herold Vinjak, Karpatske Brandy O.X. and etc.

Transport

The largest airport in Slovakia is located in Bratislava (Bratislava Airport named after Milan Raslava Styfanika), regular flights to most are committed from it. european capitals (Paris, London, Rome, Copenhagen, Prague, Moscow, etc.), other major cities (Milan, Antalya, Barcelona, \u200b\u200bKurugda, etc.). There is one flight inside the country of Bratislava - Kosice worth 40-60 €.

In the country, railway transport is very well developed, except international trains, neighbouring countries (Austria, Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic) walks a lot of high-speed trains.

Bus transport is used, as a rule, for movement for short distances. The cost of 50 km of the track is approximately 1 €.

Traveling in Slovakia on its own vehicles, integral road rules should be observed, including high-speed regime (no more than 50 km / h in the city, 90 km / h beyond settlements and 130 km / h on highway), continuous use of near light in Any time of day and any weather conditions. For violation of traffic rules in the country, large fines are provided, for example, for drunk driving 1000 €.

City transport is represented by buses, trams and trolley buses. Travel coupons can be bought at stops (orange machines) and drivers. The cost of the trip depends on the time on the way (the schedule was published at stops). Taxi is in every city of Slovakia, it is not expensive, but because of the small distances is not popular with tourists.

Communication

Mobile communications in Slovakia provide 3 operators: T-Mobile, Orange, Telefonica O2. All mobile operators also offer an Internet connection service through a mobile phone or 3G modem (from 8 € for 1 MB of traffic). The cost of 3G modem is about 50 €, with a modem inland, that is, it can be used to access the Internet with SIM cards of other operators. Free Wi-Fi includes most hotels, guest houses and hostels.

For calls abroad, you can use the telephone machine, buying a card in the newsstand or post office.

Safety

Due to the absence of religious, territorial and national conflicts, Slovakia is considered a quiet and peaceful country, but always and everywhere should be observed elementary care measures on the roads, in very crowded places and in the dark. In urban transport, rare, but pocket thefts are possible. At ski resorts, it is necessary to carefully refer to the preservation of their sports equipment, especially expensive models.

In the mountains there is a paid mountain-carrier service.

At the request of the police, a foreigner should present a document certifying the identity, and medical insurance.

Business climate

According to the World Bank research, the registration of a foreign company in Slovakia consists of 8 procedures and lasts 18 days, which is much easier and faster than in the rest of the European Union.

Enterprises operating in Slovakia are required to pay net profit tax (19%), value added tax (20%), as well as taxes on dividend income (15%), leases (25%), royalties (25%) .

Tourism is considered the most profitable business industry in Slovakia.

The property

In Slovakia, there are no restrictions for foreigners buying residential or commercial real estate, when buying which the land ownership is automatically purchased. No company registration is also required when buying real estate by foreign investors.

The cost of real estate in large cities of Slovakia and in high tatras is comparable with the cost of real estate on the best Mediterranean resorts. The high cost is explained by the economic prospects, safety and environmental situation in the country. For 1 m 2 in Bratislava Today, on average, about € 1700 will have to pay, in Kosice - 950 €, in Prest - 800 € and so on. Monthly rental of one-room apartment in Bratislava will be from 350 to 500 €, in Kosice - from 300 to 450 €.

Real estate owners in Slovakia pay real estate tax, the rate of which is different in different regions of the country, on average it is equal to 0.2 € per 1 m2. When selling or renting real estate, it is necessary to pay income tax (19%).

Planning a trip or a tour of Slovakia National Parks, you should always think about the night of the night in advance, as the number of hotels and campgrounds is very limited here, and to independently break the tent camp is strictly prohibited.

In ski resorts it is more profitable to use lifts on special weekly tickets ski-Pass (approximately 2 €).

Exchange currency is usually more profitable in banks, and not in exchange offices.

You should not plan your trip to Slovakia in July-August, so at this time the resorts will be overcrowded to the Slovaks themselves who came on vacation from their cities can arise with accommodation. The optimal time of the year for traveling in Slovakia (except for ski resorts) is the second half of the spring, the beginning of the summer and the beginning of autumn.

Visa

Visiting Slovakia is possible in the presence of a Schengen visa. Visa's issuance is made upon presentation of a number of documents: a passport, valid for more than 3 months from the date of the end of the visa, with two or more pages, the questionnaires of the established sample, 2 color photographs, a document confirming the applicant's solvency (at least 56 € per day), international insurance sample, etc.

The registration of a visa is carried out within about 10 days when paying for a consular collection of 35 €, within 3 days - 70 €. When submitting documents, it is necessary to personally have a person receiving a visa.