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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

***************************************************************

BANSKO SKI SEASON OFFICIALLY STARTS 29th NOVEMBER '08

***************************************************************

If you enjoyed this article, then sign up for more regular Bansko updates. If you register now you get 5% discount off my accommodation AND 10% off Bansko transfer.

Happy End Bar

With all this doom and gloom in the news today I thought it would be more in keeping to focus on the Happy End Bar.

This review conducted during my many visits last ski season.

The Happy End is the largest apres ski bar in Bansko. Its unmissable being situated virtually facing the gondola across the car park entrance road. A bizarre man in a chair lift dangles from a pole by the entrance.

Situated just 100 metres from Mountain Residence 3, and close to Bansko Royal Towers, Grand Montana and others its convenient for many staying near the gondola end of town.

Why The Happy End?

The good points start with its convenience, and nice wooden tables with lights on a weight and pulley counterbalance system that's sure to keep the kid in us amused for a minute or two as you play moving them up and down. Overall, a nice alpine and rustic vibe greets you.

Go there for apres ski drink but, unless you are not too fussed about food, probably best not to eat here. Although of course standard may improve in 08/09 season. The sache (mixed grill) is just ok but much better for less can be found.

Live Music

Best of all, however, are the Friday and Saturday night live bands. I have not been here when the band has not managed to get the placing rockin'. Mainly covers and a tendency to rock / popular. think Amy Winehouse, Rolling Stones, Guns and Roses, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Robbie Williams classics.

There are usually two or three bands that cover the whole ski season. The standard of musicianship was commented upon as being very high by my friend John, a professional guitarist friend.

Before the band, interval and after the sets, there is a DJ to keep things going.

Prices

Drinks prices can vary here. Be warned, I have witnessed a group get overcharged. Just best to have your wits about you but I've always been OK.

Needless to say prices are high for Bulgaria here - around 5 Lev (£2) for a large beer - but I cant now remember for sure. Bad points, well service can be average or worse, food is poor

You'll see both female and male cage dancers add to the visual treat, as well as a huge screen showing some stunning snowboard, skiing, speed paragliding and general extreme sports videos.


The male toilets always provoke comment with the interesting photographic murals above the urinals.

I have messed with the picture here, so as not to cause offence!

Overall Rating

Overall rating of the Happy End... on a Friday and Saturday night: 9/10. Other times 5/10.

If you enjoyed this review of the Happy End Bar, then subscribe to the newsletter to receive more like this.

Cheapest Bansko transfer

There hasn't been a huge amount in the news this week to bring back the feel good factor. So I thought its time to do my bit to cheer up all those Bansko skiers. If you are looking to save as much money as possible this coming winter then read on.

In addition to the excellent value Bansko accommodation offers, it was time to get a special deal for my accommodation clients as well as all those who had already registered.

Luckily, the idea was given to me from a transfer company who had contacted me to offer an unbeatable transfer deal. As I had already used, and been very impressed with, the services of this company, it allowed me to offer readers some good news this weekend.

Why a Bansko transfer deal?

To help contribute to the running of this site, I have taken on a couple of properties from owners to offer for rental, but I am limiting it to just a few in number - so that I can be sure that the standard and location of the accommodation is up to, or better than, my own. Its also what I think blog readers are after. Both apartment owners and I, wanted to be sure it will be financially worthwhile renting via this blog site - as there are plenty of pure rental web sites.

One way to do get high rental rates for Bansko apartments is to offer unbeatable rental deals. Not just for the Bansko apartment rental, but also for the transfer element of the holiday as well. Virtually all non package holidays to Bansko, at the moment, require a private transfer (see last week's blog post http://banskoaccommodation.blogspot.com/2008/09/bansko-transfers.html

Cheapest Bansko transfer:

OFFER NOW CLOSED.

NEW OFFER COMING SOON.
FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

CLICK HERE FOR LATEST TRANSFER INFO

So, for a limited period for Mountain Residence 3, Grand Montana and Villa Daisy (two and three bedroom) apartments.

****************************************************************************

Sofia to Bansko and Bansko to Sofia for up to 4 people for just

€120

for the whole two way private transfer
if there is four passengers that's just €30 total each !!

****************************************************************************

Note: Renting an apartment from me, via this web site, will not only save you money due to the low prices, but will help me continually improve this site. The vision is for the Bansko Accommodation Blog to be the one stop shop authority for getting the best out of Bansko all year round.

I am not sure how long this deal will last, so be sure to register to for this offer now.

DEAL NOW CLOSED

Bansko Transfers

Bansko Transfer Stress

Having once been left hanging around Sofia airport for a Bansko transfer that never turned up, I know that this is a potential weak link in your trip

Over the years, I have tended to hire a car and drive myself for the flexibility that gives. However sometimes I just want to get there and, for longer stays, its a load cheaper having a private transfer.

Transfer Options

I know there is the train option but this takes much too long. There is also the bus option, get taxi to Ovcha Kupal bus station and prepare for a long journey, stopping at Dupnitsa. Be prepared to pay very little too. I will ignore train option as its not a viable option.


The Six Transfer Options From Sofia Airport:

1. Bankso Express
2. private transfer
3. hire a car
4. take a taxi
5. take the bus
6. take the train

bonus option 7: 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.

Their web site says:

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 138 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. Recommended.

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.

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 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.

Do you have any more options? Please comment.

If you found the information on this blog useful then please register for newsletter for more. In addition you get 5% discount off our reviewed apartments on this site, including Mountain Residence 3 as well as a free guides to Bansko.

If you are yet to organise your accommodation - hotel, chalet or apartment - drop me an email and I may be able to help. If you are organising a large group, then I can arrange accommodation, transfers, lessons etc at local prices.

Bansko apartment rental prices 2008/2009

* 2 & 1 Bedroom Mountain Residence 3 apartments
* 2 Bedroom Grand Montana apartments
* 2 & 3 Bedroom Villa Daisy apartment
£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 £ 95 per week for Grand Montana ADD £120 per week for Villa Daisy

Why is this a great deal?

* Direct from owner unbeatable prices
* Transfers arranged at lowest price
* Welcome packs available to suit your requirements (tea, coffee, bread, milk, beer, wine etc).

* Local representative on hand to help ensure you have the best holiday possible.
* Mountain Residence 3 is just a few minutes walk, 270 metres, to lift.

Special Offer

* 5% off one week rentals. just subscribe to newsletter. I hate spam, your details are never passed to anyone else & you can opt out any time. By opt in subscribe system both you and I avoid spam.

Come for Bansko Jazz Festival 2009 (free concerts)
click here for video of 2008 Jazz Fest Ya Ya Band
Loads of things to do and places to visit in spring, summer and autumn. Bansko has something for everyone all year round. Check out all the facilities in resort and in the area.

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* top tips on how to pick kitchen & furniture to save you money.
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Need more info?

* Call Lance on 0044(0)113 313100, register or email lancenelson1 at gmail dot com.

Please note that prices and the special offer are subject to change and reservation is subject to contract. Prices assume 4 person occupancy in 2 bedroom apartments (extra £5 per night per person or £30 per person per week over four people. six maximum). Cleaning charge €25 (£20).