Ruse: The Little Vienna of Bulgaria

• HelloЗдравей
  [Zdravey]
• GoodbyeДовиждане
  [Dovizhdane]
• YesДа
  [Da]
• NoНе
  [Ne]
• Please/You're welcomeМоля
  [Molya]
• Thank youБлагодаря
  [Blagodarya]
• Excuse me/SorryИзвинете
  [Izvinete]
• How are you?Как си?
  [Kak si?]
• Fine. And you?Добре. А ти?
  [Dobre. A ti?]
• Do you speak English?Говорите ли английски?
  [Govorite li angliyski?]
• I don't understandНе разбирам
  [Ne razbiram]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseБихте ли ми показали менюто, моля
  [Bihte li mi pokazali menuto, molya]
• I don't eat meatНе ям месо
  [Ne yam meso]
• Cheers!На здраве!
  [Na zdrave!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseБих искал да платя, моля
  [Bih iskal da platya, molya]

• Help!Помощ!
  [Pomosht!]
• Go away!Отлезте!
  [Otlezhte!]
• Call the Police!Обадете полицията!
  [Obadete politsiyata!]
• Call a doctor!Обадете лекар!
  [Obadete lekar!]
• I'm lostЗагубих се
  [Zagubih se]
• I'm illБолен съм
  [Bolen sam]

• I'd like to buy...Бихте ли искали да купите...
  [Bihte li iskali da kupite...]
• I'm just lookingСамо разглеждам
  [Samo razglezhdam]
• How much is it?Колко струва?
  [Kolko struva?]
• That's too expensiveТова е твърде скъпо
  [Tova e tvarde skapо]
• Can you lower the price?Можете ли да намалите цената?
  [Mozhete li da namalite tsenata?]

• What time is it?Колко е часът?
  [Kolko e chasat?]
• It's one o'clockЕдин час
  [Edin chas]
• Half past (10)Половин час след (10)
  [Polovin chas sled (10)]
• MorningСутрин
  [Sutrin]
• AfternoonСледобед
  [Sledobed]
• EveningВечер
  [Vecher]
• YesterdayВчера
  [Vchera]
• TodayДнес
  [Dnes]
• TomorrowУтре
  [Utre]
• 1едно
  [edno]
• 2две
  [dve]
• 3три
  [tri]
• 4четири
  [chetiri]
• 5пет
  [pet]
• 6шест
  [shest]
• 7седем
  [sedem]
• 8осем
  [osem]
• 9девет
  [devet]
• 10десет
  [deset]

• Where's a/the...?Къде е...
  [Kade e...]
• What's the address?Какъв е адресът?
  [Kakav e adresat?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Можете ли да ми покажете (на картата)?
  [Mozhete li da mi pokazhete (na kartata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Кога е следващият (автобус)?
  [Koga e sledvashtiyat (avtobus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Билет (за ....)
  [Bilet (za ....)]

Ruse, known in ancient times as Sexaginta Prista, was established as a Roman fortress in the 1st century AD. The name Sexaginta Prista translates to 'Port of Sixty Ships,' reflecting its significance as a bustling port on the Danube River. The ruins of the ancient fortress, including remnants of walls, towers, and public buildings, provide a glimpse into the city's early strategic importance.

Under Ottoman rule from the late 14th century until the late 19th century, Ruse transformed into a significant commercial center. The city's advantageous location on the Danube River facilitated trade and cultural exchange. The Ottoman architectural influence is evident in several of Ruse's historic buildings, including the Mosques and the Turkish baths, which stand as testaments to this period.

Ruse played a pivotal role in the Bulgarian struggle for independence. Following the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878), Ruse was liberated and became part of the newly independent Bulgaria. The city quickly modernized, establishing itself as a cultural and economic hub. Notable buildings from this era include the Dohodno Zdanie (Profit Building), a symbol of the city's prosperity and architectural elegance.

The early 20th century saw Ruse flourish architecturally, earning it the nickname 'Little Vienna.' Influenced by European styles, many of the city's buildings from this period feature neoclassical, baroque, and rococo designs. The Theatre House, the Library, and the Regional Historical Museum are prime examples of this rich architectural heritage.

During World War II, Ruse's strategic location made it a focal point of military interest. Post-war, under communist rule, the city saw significant industrialization and urban development. However, this period also brought challenges, including environmental issues due to industrial pollution. Some of the communist-era architecture, such as the Pantheon of National Revival Heroes, reflects the era's ideological influence.

After the fall of communism in 1989, Ruse underwent significant political and economic changes. The city began to embrace its historical and cultural identity, restoring many of its architectural gems and revitalizing its cultural institutions. Today, Ruse stands as a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its historical heritage with modern developments.

Ruse is located in northeastern Bulgaria, along the banks of the Danube River. The nearest major airports are Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest, Romania, about 75 kilometers away, and Sofia Airport in Sofia, Bulgaria, approximately 300 kilometers away. From Bucharest, you can take a bus or a train to Ruse. Alternatively, if you are traveling from Sofia, you can take a direct bus or train, which typically takes around 4 to 5 hours. Car rentals and taxis are also available for a more direct route.

Ruse offers several modes of transportation within the city. Public buses are the most common and affordable means of getting around. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. For a more personalized experience, consider renting a bike to explore the city at your own pace. If you prefer driving, car rentals are available, but be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

The official currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Ruse, and currency exchange offices are available for converting foreign currencies.

Ruse is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any urban area, it’s wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Specific neighborhoods with higher crime rates include the areas around the Central Railway Station and some parts of the Druzhba district. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The city has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the University Hospital in Ruse. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in churches. Cover your head and shoulders when entering a place of worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t speak loudly or play music on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; a friendly nod or smile is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like banitsa and rakia. Don’t refuse food or drink when offered, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Ruse like a local, visit the lively markets such as the Central Market Hall, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Bulgarian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss a walk along the Danube River, where you can enjoy beautiful views and local cafes. For a unique experience, visit the Ruse Opera House, which offers a range of performances in a historic setting.