Europe Became Bangaranga 🎉

Hi travel enthusiasts 👋

On Saturday, May 16th, Bulgaria won the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 for the very first time. This means Bulgaria will host the contest in 2027!

The winner? Singer Dara, with her infectious song "Bangaranga." This word refers to a special energy she describes as "a feeling that everything is possible", and judging by the reaction across Europe, the whole continent felt it.

The song was inspired by the Kukeri 🎭

The part that gave us chills: "Bangaranga" was inspired by the Kukeri, Bulgaria's ancient ritual in which locals dress in furry costumes with bells and animal masks to chase away evil spirits and welcome good fortune.

Sound familiar? It's the same tradition behind the Surva Festival in Pernik, which we've been taking travelers to for years. The world just discovered what our guests have known for a long time: Bulgarian culture is unlike anything else.

And the big news: Bulgaria will host Eurovision 2027 🇧🇬

Expect a surge of curiosity about the country, its culture, its music, and its traditions. Hotels are already getting booked for next May!

If you've been thinking about visiting Bulgaria, there's never been a better moment. The spotlight is on, and the country has a lot to show.

Dara's triumph is a beautiful reminder of what makes this country so special - deep traditions, wild energy, and a culture that feels genuinely alive:

🏛️ Ancient sites older than the Egyptian pyramids
🍷 Wine regions that have been producing since Thracian times
🏔️ Mountain trails with some of the most stunning views in Europe
🏖️ Black Sea beaches that stay blissfully uncrowded
🎭 Festivals and folk traditions you will not find anywhere else

Whether you want a few days in Sofia, a road trip across the country, or a full Balkan adventure, we'll plan it around what matters most to you.

Or just reply to this email and tell us where you'd like to start. We'll take it from there.

Discover the Balkans beyond the guidebooks.

Adriana from Private Guide Bulgaria