Monday, November 17, 2008

Will The Bansko Discount Card Save You Money?



Today The Bansko Discount Card is launched. The money saving idea from GS Properties is ready to buy. For Euro 20 (Leva 40), you own your Bansko Discount Card ("BDC").


How much will I save?

Early indications are that, with one Bansko Discount Card covering discounts for two people, is that you will save enough to warrant the purchase of a card for just one week stay in Bansko.

I will do the maths in more detail another day; but if any readers would like a go, then please comment at the end of this post.


How does it work?

After you have purchased the card, you're ready to use it. Just look for the BDC sticker that indicates a participating outlet or advertised on the web sites of hotels, furniture, Bansko transfer companies, activity company and a wide range of Bansko services websites.

The savings seem to be around 10%.

The list is already long (see below). Colin and Duncan tell me the number of participants is growing very rapidly and so far it covers the following things:

Ski lessons, Ski & Board hire, Ski Boot clothes hire, Hotel reservations, Spa
facilities, Airport transfers, Rent-a-car hire, ATV (Four wheel motorcycle hire), Bars & nightclubs, Mehanas & restaurants, Pizzerias, Excursions incl. Hiking, Walking, Pony Trekking, White Water Rafting, Fishing, Paint balling, trips to monuments, historical sites, and visits to vineyards, Discounts at Ski / High St clothes shops, Supermarkets, Jewellery shops, Doctors, Lawyers, Furniture purchases.

The Bansko Discount Card is valid until 30th November 2009.

Look for the Bansko Discount Card sticker at locations across the town, and produce your Bansko Discount Card to claim the discount on offer.

So far the list of participating companies, outlets, restaurants, bars, ski hire etc click here: http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/11/bansko-discount-card-participating.html


Saturday, November 15, 2008

How Do I Get My Bansko Transfer?



Are you thinking about your Bansko transfer? You're not alone. This is the second most popular search that brings folks to this Bansko Blog.


Have you ever been left waiting in the icy cold - waiting for transport that never arrived?

Looking desperate like a lost child searching for their mummy? Examining every waiting person - hopefully expecting that they are your taxi transfer.

It then gets late.

So late that you're left with the old man on the night shift for company. And the faint buzzing sound of his floor polishing machine.

He looks up at you, with that look that says he's seen it all before.

Been there? So have I.

Here's how to avoid this experience ever again...

There Are Six Options From Sofia Airport:


Click Play For Audio Version Update to this article made on 14th December 2008:



1. Bankso Express
2. private transfer

3. hire a car
4. take a taxi
5. take the bus
6. take the train

bonus option 6: fly to Thessaloniki (Greece) or to Plovdiv (Bulgaria)


1. Bansko Express


www.banskoexpress.com This will be a new service costing from £10 per person.

As of today from their web site they say:

EasyJet, Wizz Air and Aer Lingus Flights are covered.

Book well ahead.

This COULD BE YOUR CHEAPEST TRANSFER

"
Bansko Express works as a booking agent which gets holiday makers from the same flights and transports them between Sofia Airport and Bansko in one vehicle.

Depending on the number of bookings the vehicles used are cars, shuttle buses, mini-buses and coaches. If you are the only booking for your flight then it would be like a private taxi transfer at a much cheaper price. Whatever type of vehicle used, your journey will be pleasant."

Initial reports have been favourable.


2. Private Transfer:

The most common way for skiers to get to Bansko from Sofia, unless you have booked on a package trip.

Here are my recommended transfer companies. There is competition. So here are six to choose from.

1/ www.bulgariatransport.com/transfers.html

They currently charge according to number a number of people.

Expect to pay for 1/2 people 1
38 euros return.
For 3/4 people, 145 euros in total (€74 if just one way, no return)

So that's €36.25 per person return if there is four of you.

Call Alex Lub. He's a great guy and speaks perfect English and is very helpful. Tel:+359.886.222.400 or email Alex on: office@bulgariatransport.com
www.BulgariaTransport.com.

2. www.banskoservices.moonfruit.com - Jordan speaks excellent
English and is helpful too. Recommended.

3.
www.autorentbg.com - Radoslav. Drivers vary, but very reliable and
good car hire too.

4. www.sofiaairporttaxis.co.uk - HHB Travel quote €150 return up to four people

5. www.motoroads.com - Very reliable service. Competitive prices

6. www.skidvd.co.uk/bulgariantransfers.htm - Prices on request. Luxury van from Steve. Recommended.

7. www.transferbulgaria.com - No reports but efficient on email quote. But it was €178 for two people return to Bansko.


3. Taxi

www.oktaxi.net - I have used OK taxis several times. And its not a bad option - well, its just okay!

They are the official yellow taxis outside airport. If you're up for some hard bargaining remember its just one way, so start at €50/100 lev. Try and pay €80/160 lev. Let me know how you got on.

If you were last minute and all other options failed. Or you just forgot to book.

All is not lost. OK Taxis (Supertrans) will get you there. Try and pick and English speaking driver.

Very poor boot (trunk) space for your baggage. There is a large gas bottle in the boot.

www.sofiaairporttaxis.com


4. Hire a Car:

www.BulgariaTransport.com Alex provides great rates from just 16 euros per day. Good service.

www.autorentbg.com
who also provide a very flexible car hire service. Their yellow mini cooper drew admiring glances driving through remote villages.

There is now lots of hire car competition and prices have come down.

Hiring a car is a good option once you have been once to Bansko - or are used to driving abroad.

A car will also mean you will save money by driving out of Bansko in the evenings to local restaurants. Restaurants that are often half the price of Bansko's Pirin street mehana tourist traps.

www.autorent.bg
www.rentacarbg.com
www.bulgariacarrent.com
www.rentacarbulgaria.com

Go to
http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/06/getting-there.html.
for directions from Sofia Airport to Bansko


TOP TIP: Be sure you have a ticket attached to screen for the motorways outside Sofia. Do check you have winter tyres attached and that the windscreen fluid is full.

Carry your driving licence. Be very careful to obey speed limits.

Police (Kat): The time spent stopped by police makes it a waste of time speeding. Be sure you have a road legal vehicle. Don't drink and drive. Winter tyres are essential.

Go to
http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/06/getting-there.html for directions from airport to Bansko.

If you can recommend other transfer companies then please can you comment? I will then add them to the list.


5. Take the Bus

Why not take the bus? Save the environment and save cash. This is cheap, about 14 lev (7 euros approx) each way. It will take longer though.

Go to this site:
Central Bus Station - Sofia for timetable (its in English). But here its is as of today from Central Bus Station:

Be warned, this will take time as you have to get to Central Bus Station.

Best to use Ovcha Kupel bus station. But at least its on the right side of town. You will need to check these times.

Sofia Ovcha Kupal Bus Terminal to Bansko - 07:00, 09:20 (not Tues), 10:30, 11:50 (not Sun), 13:05, 13:55, 14:30, 14:40, 15:10, 15:28 (not Tues), 15:55, 16:30, 17:00, 17:30.

Bansko Bus Terminal to Sofia - 05:40, 7:00, 08:40, 13:15, 15:20 (not Tues).


6. Take the train

Never done it. But why not if you.ve got the time. Admire the scenery. Read a book. You'll have to change. Takes 7 hours, 7 euros click here for Sofia train station timetable and info http://www.razpisanie.bdz.bg/site/search.jsp)

Thessaloniki option

Fly to
Thessaloniki, hire a car and drive to Bansko from Greece. Car hire costs more and its a bit further but getting out of Sofia at busy times makes this an option to consider especially if you fancy time exploring Greece.

I went to
Thessaloniki in May 2007 and really enjoyed the atmosphere. Great bars and restaurants and really different from Bulgaria. Be prepared for drinks prices that are equal to, if not more, than London, Paris, Dublin etc.

Quality is high, however, and the weather is almost always warmer than Bulgaria.

Plovdiv Transfer Option

Sorry no knowledge of this. So no comments. But if you have experience of a private/taxi transfer from Plovdiv then please comment, thank you.

Do you have any more options? Please comment.

If you found this article useful, then why not receive regular updates, reviews, snow reports and news?

Sign up for newsletter today. Guaranteed no spam - you can opt out any time.

In addition, claim 5% discount off our apartments on this site, and be the first for regular offers e.g Bansko Discount Card due any day now.

Oh, and grab your free guide to Bansko.


Thursday, November 13, 2008

Warm Up For Bansko At The O2



Paul Rodgers and Queen rocked the O2 (formerly Millenium Dome in London) on Friday night. Just a spectacular show.

Brian May and Roger Taylor really looked like they were loving it.

In fact those crowd pleasing Queen tracks make great ipod listening whilst tackling the Tomba run.


Yes a very happy audience, and I was delighted to be amongst the action near the stage. Thanks Spud for organising tickets and to Kipper for his company and photo.

Freddie Mercury sadly missed though.

Anyhow, the point of today's blog, is that this winter the O2 (formerly the Millennium Dome) will open London’s first ever indoor artificial twin ski slope.


  • From late November to 25 January 09, visitors will be able to ski, snowboard or snow tube at The O2.
  • The twin slopes, both 45 metres in length will give Londoners the option to learn to ski or snowboard.
  • Experienced skiers can warm up their ski/snowboard legs before heading to the mountains.
  • Tubing will also be available.
  • The Warren Smith Ski Academy will offer top level coaching for all levels at The Slopes.
  • Ski and Snowboard manufacturers, K2 and Ride, will be supplying the range of skis and snowboards to rent.

Niccy Hallifax, Head of Special Events at The O2, said: ‘The Slopes is a fun and safe way for both experienced skiers and snowboarders to gear themselves up for the real thing or as an introduction for complete beginners. The Slopes are designed for all abilities and the snow tubes are ideal for both small and big kids alike!’

With the whole of the London Piazza themed like a winter resort, The Slopes, along with real snow covered trees and chalet will help create the perfect day out this winter.

A trip to The Slopes could also be combined with a visit to one of The O2’s 26 bars and restaurants, a show in The O2 arena or indigO2, or to see a film at the 11 screen Vue cinema.

Tickets start at £15 per adult per hour (ski/board rental additional £5) and snow tubes £8 per half hour (subject to booking fee).

Looks all set to be a great start to the season. Early snow reports from around the Alps are in. Some resorts already open.

www.theo2.co.uk

If you enjoyed reading this, then sign up for more. like it. Free newsletter with some Bansko deals. Reviews, Snow Reports and more...

Kempinsko Hotel Grand Arena Bansko Wins Bulgaria's Leading Hotel

Kempinski Hotels shone brightly once again on the

world stage as its portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts harvested a number of awards at the recently

concluded World Travel Awards and received honours from the Conde Nast Traveller List (US edition).


At the World Travel Awards 2008, one of the most respected award-giving bodies in the hospitality industry, Kempinski Hotels was among the ceremonies' biggest winners, walking away with nine awards, including:

Middle East's Leading Leisure Hotel (Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates), Middle East Leading Conference Hotel (Emirates Palace), Tanzania's Leading Hotel (Kilimanjaro Hotel Kempinski Dar es Salaam), Bulgaria's Leading Spa Resort and Leading Resort (Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko), Bulgaria's Leading Hotel (Kempinski Hotel Zografski), Germany's Leading Hotel (Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin), Turkey's Leading Golf Resort (Kempinski Hotel The Dome Belek Turkey), Switzerland's Leading Hotel (Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains St. Moritz), Malta's Leading Spa Resort and Leading Resort (Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz Gozo Malta).

Meanwhile, the prestigious Conde Nast Traveller (US edition) singled out Kempinski branded and managed hotels in it annual list of the world's Top 100 hotels, including Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresden (7th), Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin (9th), Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul (27th), Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest (38th), Kempinski Hotel Moika 22 St. Petersburg (44th), Hotel Atlantic Kempinski Hamburg (50th), The Leela Palace Kempinski Bangalore (57th), and Commune by the Great Wall Kempinski China (97th).

'Our winning tradition continues, and we attribute these achievements to the men and women in Kempinski's properties all over the world who continue to make the Kempinski tradition of luxury service come to life for guests visiting from all corners of the globe.

Each hotel is an architectural masterpiece, with unrivalled amenities and facilities, but what makes a stay truly memorable and truly distinctive is the overall Kempinski experience. We thank the World Travel Awards and the Conde Nast Traveller List for recognizing our hotels.

It's an honour and an inspiration to just do better, each time a new guest arrives or a familiar face returns for another memorable Kempinski experience,' said Reto Wittwer, President and CEO, Kempinski Hotels.

A preferred hotel for many GCC travellers, based on record arrival figures from GCC nationalities across Kempinski properties in the region, Kempinski Hotels offers an extensive network of luxury properties and exotic getaways perfect for business and leisure travel.

'GCC tourists can look forward to the same level of superior service in every Kempinski Hotel worldwide, but always a different and unforgettable experience,'

COMMENT:

I can't recommend the Kempinski enough. Perfect location, great service and good food along with a world class Spa.

However there ia a price to be paid! A family of four in two rooms can rent an apartment nearby for a whole week for less than two nights in the Kempinski!

You can pay to use the Spa and also use Bansko Royal Towers Spa nearby. Choice is Yours.

Check out ways to save money in Bansko below and sign up for free tips today:

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/09/bansko-budget-skiing.html

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

International Festival of the Mountain Cinema, Bansko 27th – 30th November 2008

Bansko hosts the International Festival of the Mountaineers Cinema, announced by Natali Petrova, festival organisor.

75 films from five continents, taken from the sea bottom to the Himalayan peaks, will be presented in three halls.


The documentaries show the lifestyle, art and religion of the mountain people, as well as the ecology issues of the planet.

Gustavo Tony (Italy), Borge Ousland (Norway) and others will present some personal collections and prints during their stay in Bansko, ready for the future National Mountaineering Museum.

The international jury, lead by Mariana Evstatieva – Biolcheva will determine the winners of the six prizes in the program.

The program also includes art exhibitions, among which “Bulgaria in Antarktika”, marking the 20th anniversary of the Bulgarian science in the region of the South Pole and etc.

The audience will have the chance to watch six films – “The starts of the winter Olympics on the big screen”. The entrance for all shows is free.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

The Secret To Credit Crunch Skiing Is One More Day!

The "Crunchie Credit" Bansko accommodation deal is extended by one day until Thursday 6th, 6:00pm. The secret to credit crunch skiing is... just one more day.

The time for deliberation has passed. Its time to make a decision. 6.00pm on the 6th November.

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/08/mountain-residence-3-special-offer.html

After tomorrow, the Welcome Pack offer closes for good. Be sure to register today and email back with offer code WP0505.

I am here to help.

Recent emails I've received from people were not sure about Bansko. They had various questions but many were:

* thinking of booking your winter ski holiday elsewhere
* unsure about Bulgaria or Bansko
* skiing at peak times or school holidays and not sure about nurseries or child care

Relax, as I could give them all the info they needed to ensure a great holiday. I help you sort out the important details...

Transfers arranged, in resort representative to assist with anything from babysitting, medical emergencies, restaurants, shopping, spa, lessons, passes, board/ski hire, excursions.
Here's a reminder of the deal:

I'm offering you a one off FREE Welcome Pack (worth £20 / €25).

This deal puts even more cash back in your pocket.


Free Welcome Pack. Just email me lancenelson1@gmail.com your requirement of at least one weeks accommodation by midnight Wednesday 5th November. That's it.

You save money and I get accommodation booked up early.

The free Welcome Pack is popular. Imagine arriving with bread, tea, coffee, milk, cereal, butter, jam and four 500ml bottles of refreshing chilled Zagorka beer awaiting you in your apartment.

If you want wine instead, or other items, these can be arranged for a small extra fee.

So don't delay

Email Me For Latest Availability in:
Mountain Residence 3, Predela, Villa Daisy & Grand Montana & others


Ski season starts 29th November

I guarantee the best value Bansko Accommodation. I have checked prices on other web sites for the same accommodation and these prices cannot be beaten.

If you find the same sized accommodation, as close to the lift, cheaper than on my site I'll refund the difference!

Avoid commissions. Book Direct and save money.

Ski from £325 per week for a two bedroom apartment LESS 5% discount PLUS FREE Welcome Pack. Spacious and modern accommodation a few minutes from the gondola!! One bedroom apartment available on request from £225 in the ski season.

Just reply quoting FREE WELCOME PACK 0505.

Please state:

* preferred dates
* number of people
* one, two or three bed apartment


Links to Bansko apartments can be found here:

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/08/mountain-residence 3-special-offer.html

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/10/rent-this-predela-apartment-to-be-proud.html

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/09/villa-daisy.html

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/search/label/three%20bedroom
%20apartment

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/10/you-don't-have-to-be-rich-tostayin.html


http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/search/label/transfers

Here's To Bansko Skiing,


Lance

PS: Those who have registered for "7 Little Know Ways To Get The Best Out Of Bansko". My apologies.
There were some errors and this report is being updated and will be sent out to all on list soon as well as news of a very special weekend skiing offer.

Your comments and experiences, that will help others get the best out of Bansko, would be very much appreciated. Please comment below or email me.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

The "Crunchie Credit" Bansko Accommodation Deal

The "Crunchie Credit" Bansko accommodation deal ends tomorrow.

Wednesday 5th November at midnight.


Here's a reminder of the deal:

So keen I am to get you skiing this year, I'm offering a one off FREE Welcome Pack (worth £20 / €25).

Yes, this is an offer which puts even more cash back in your pocket. And more ski holiday value.

Free Welcome Pack to ALL those who email me your requirement at least one weeks accommodation by midnight Wednesday 5th November.

Imagine arriving with FREE bread, tea, coffee, milk, cereal, butter, jam and four 500ml bottles of creamy chilled Zagorka beer awaiting you in your apartment.

If you want wine instead or other items these can be arranged for a small extra fee.

So don't delay. Let's Go Skiing.

Ski season starts in just 25 days!


I Guarantee the Best Bansko Accommodation. If you find the same sized accommodation, as close to the lift, cheaper than on my site I'll refund the difference!

Avoid commissions. Book Direct. http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/08/mountain-residence-3-special-offer.html

Ski from £325 per week for a two bedroom apartment LESS 5% discount PLUS FREE Welcome Pack. Luxury accommodation a few minutes from the gondola!! One bedroom apartment available on request.

How Do I Book?

Just email lance nelson1 @ gmail.com quoting FREE WELCOME PACK 0505.

State:

* preferred dates
* number of people
* one, two or three bed apartment

Links to Bansko apartments can be found here:

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/08/mountain-residence-3
-special-offer.html


http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/10/rent-this-predela-ap
artment-to-be-proud.html


http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/09/villa-daisy.html

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/search/label/three%20bedroom
%20apartment


http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/10/you-dont-have-to-be-
rich-to-stay-in.html


http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/search/label/transfers

Here's To Bansko Skiing,


Lance

PS: Those who have registered for "7 Little Know Ways To Get The Best Out Of Bansko". My apologies. There were some errors, and this report is now being updated and corrected. Regular Bankso visitors and residents please do send me an email of your experiences. Anything that will help others get the best out of Bansko would be very much appreciated.



Bansko Blog

Friday, October 31, 2008

The Lazy Way To Save Money In Bansko


Today is Halloween. Something strange is happening....

I just have to offer a truly special Bansko accommodation deal. A deal that will end in five days.

Once the five days are up, that's it. It's over.


Let's face it. Its got cold this week.

My thoughts have turned to white powdery snow. Then to that warm glow. The glow you get as you settle into your first apres ski beer. Nazdrave!

But now is one of the most popular times of the year to book your Bansko ski accommodation. I want to get you skiing in Bansko. I guarantee you'll have great time.

So keen I am to get you skiing this year. I'm offering a one off FREE Welcome Pack (worth £20 / €25).

Yes. Free to ALL those who book a weeks accommodation by Wednesday.

You get FREE bread, tea, coffee, milk, butter, jam and four 500ml bottles of creamy pre chilled beer when you arrive!

So don't delay. Lets Go Skiing.
I Guarantee the
Best Bansko Accommodation.


Ski from £325 per week for a two bedroom apartment LESS 5% PLUS FREE Welcome Pack. Luxury accommodation a few minutes from the gondola!!

Register Now.

Just email me back quoting FREE WELCOME PACK 0505.

1/ Register Now
2/ Confirm you are human and reply to the email you will get to avoid spam.
3/ Reply to my email. with FREE WELCOME PACK 0505 and state preferred dates, numbers, one, two or three bed apartment

Links to apartments can be found here:

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/08/mountain-residence-3-special-offer.html

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/10/rent-this-predela-apartment-to-be-proud.html

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/09/villa-daisy.html

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/search/label/three%20bedroom%20apartment

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/10/you-dont-have-to-be-rich-to-stay-in.html

http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/search/label/transfers

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Rent This Predela Apartment To Be Proud Of



This immaculately furnished, spacious and modern first-floor apartment with balcony in the prestigious Predela complex is one to rent.

Sleeping 6 plus baby, it is ideal for families (cot provided) or groups of friends.

The complex has swimming pool and excellent facilities all in the coveted prime position of a few minutes walk to the main gondola station.

Within walking distance of the historic old town with its traditional stone houses and atmospheric taverns.

This Predela apartment is locally managed by an agent in Bansko who will assist and advise you during your stay.

If you have a group, these can be accommodated as we know other owners in the complex.

The apartment offers central heating throughout and air conditioning in the lounge + additional electric heaters.

There are 2 bedrooms, 1 with double bed and 1 with 2 single beds (flush-fitting, can combine to a double).

Both bedrooms have bedside tables, lamps, mirrors and triple wardrobes so ample storage space. The double bedroom also has a chest of drawers.

A baby cot is available. Additional sleeping accommodation for one or two persons is available in the lounge (see below).

The fully fitted bathroom has bath with overhead shower.

Equipped with a hairdryer for your use.

The open-plan living area with well-equipped fitted kitchen has built-in oven, hob and extractor, fridge-freezer, microwave oven and cafetière.

There are ample supplies of crockery, cutlery and glasses (10-12 of each). An iron and ironing board available.

The living area has a double sofa bed, chair bed, coffee table, TV unit, drawer units, TV (satellite), DVD player (children’s DVDs provided), CD player, extending dining table and chairs for 6 people.

A good selection of family board games and books ensures this is a home from home for you, your friends and family.

The hallway has plenty of coat hooks and a cupboard with hanging space.

There is a storage room with extra coat hooks and washing machine within the apartment.

The balcony is accessible from the lounge and both bedrooms.

Bathroom towels and bedding are all here - just bring own linen for cot.

In common with all apartment on Bansko Blog this is a no smoking apartment.

Welcome packs are available.

Predela has a landscaped garden area and there is parking immediately outside the complex.

There is a large ski locker room within the building.

The bright, south-facing leisure facility has a good sized indoor swimming pool with glass roof structure, Jacuzzi, fitness room, sauna and bar.

Guests at the complex can use the facilities free of charge.

PRICES:

£350 a week for the main ski season

£600 for Xmas, New Year and Feb half-terms

£375 for the 2 weeks from April 3rd

Beds are made up on your arrival and a full clean at the end of your stay is included in the price.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

You Don't Have To Be Rich To Stay in Villa Daisy


"That's better I said!" I slowly sat up after experiencing Dani's wonderful massage in Villa Daisy.

Earlier, the spring snow was that powder that glistens in the afternoon sunshine.

Now the exotic incense of Dani's Villa Daisy's massage room was the place to be.

The massage was during my stay last season. This was in the huge top floor three bedroom apartment in the same development.

I'd had some guests that stayed on an extra day and I forgot to check first before just turning up at my own apartment. But no matter, as it meant I could get two apartment reviews in this chalet style building. See http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/09/villa-daisy.html for review.

So I then met Paul from Hale, Manchester way.

Paul's third floor impressive two bedroom apartment awaited.

Spacious bedrooms were just another reason I can give to rent his apartment.


Two Bedroom in Three bedroom Space

Villa Daisy is located in Bansko's Glazne quarter. One to rent if you are, like me, wanting luxury at affordable price.

This is one of those properties you immediately relax in when you arrive.

When Paul agreed to offer his apartment for rental I was delighted. But not just because I knew guests would love its two large bedrooms.

Nor the large bathroom. Or even the smart comfortable furnishings.

But because this is the best two bedroom I have been in so far!

Relax in style

Relaxing round the real log fire. we chatted over a Shumensko beer...

then we met friends for another in the Plan B bar. Lit with candles it was hard to drag ourselves out into the cold night.

But Villa Daisy is a short stroll to the centre of Bansko old town, and its many mehanas, and we soon gathered quite a group for a late night visit to the "Nai Club."

Some apartments are too small to bother with much cooking.

But take a look at this kitchen area - perfect to prepare a meal for family and friends.

Or simply to prepare the apres ski snacks and drinks.


Paul wants you to enjoy this property and its facilities. Like him, I'm sure you will want to return soon.

Jacuzzi, wireless broadband, internet room, underground parking, ski locker and lobby bar complete the facilities.

Want chalet ambiance?

Want loads of space?

Rent this.
Overall Rating: 9/10
Comfort: 9.5/10
Facilities: 6/10

Read on to see just how affordable this apartment is...


Prices 08/09:

£225 pw (17th April to 20th December)
£325 pw (5th Jan to 2nd Feb)
£385 pw (23rd Feb to 28th Mar)
£445 pw (20th Dec to 5th Jan, 2nd Feb to 23rd Feb and 28th Mar to 17th April)
£38 per night outside ski season Click here for currency convertor & click here for calendar.
ADD £ 30 per week for extra guests above four (6 maximum)

More Info?


* Transfers arranged
* Welcome packs available to suit your requirements (e.g. tea, coffee, bread, milk, cereal, butter, jam, snacks, beer, wine etc).
* Local representative on hand to help ensure you have the best holiday possible.
* Villa Daisy is 850 metres, to lift. Shuttle bus to gondola.

If you enjoyed this article, then sign up for more below

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

If You Don't Book Your Bansko Accommodation Now, You'll Hate Yourself Later


If You Don't Book Your Bansko Accommodation Now, You'll Hate Yourself...

Credit Crunch 08 is in full swing - are you wondering if you are ever going to be able to go skiing again?

Time will tell - but I say a 30's style depression seems less likely without government intervention into the Banking sector. The cut in interest rates across Europe & US seems like a good start. We'll see.

Interestingly, my Barclays Capital Markets friend, Dave, is all talk of how to get the annual ski fix. He's now come to face facts that, on a non existent bonus, he'll be hard pressed to fund the annual £6,000 trip to Verbier.

Things have changed. Not long ago talking about Bansko and Bulgaria would not have cut the mustard across the dealing room floors. Nor would it impress his high maintenance girlfriends much. But that was then, and this is now. Its, the crash of '08 and its time for bankers to spend some of their own money.

All of a sudden, Bansko is looking like just the ticket to save cash. Dave would normally rely on at least one ski corporate weekend jolly - and possibly one lads weekend too. Now what? With sufficient money to choose locations, its really all about being cautious. Cautious means spending less in 2009.

Anyhow, for the first time, Dave is up for the boys trip in January to "give it a go". He's also rounding up five or six of his mates to join him for his first Eastern European ski adventure. My bet is we'll see a few more of him booking before the week is out.

What does this mean for Bansko? Well simply put:

THE SECRET OF CREDIT CRUNCH SKIING IS OUT!

Advance Bansko accommodation bookings are well up from last year. Direct flights are filling up fast. The problem will be a shortage of cheap flights. Many weekend flights will no longer be sub £150 - so the early bird catches the worm.

So for the City boys, I think its out with France, Switzerland ... Val D'Isere and Verbier and in with Bulgaria and Bansko.

Book your flight now, or email me for accommodation and transfer deal first... You'll hate yourself if you don't do it now.

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BANSKO SKI SEASON OFFICIALLY STARTS 29th NOVEMBER '08


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