As for the countries that surround it, they are fascinating. Where can you meet some of the world’s most long-lived people? In Georgia. Watch the prayerful dance of the Sufis? In Turkey. Hear some of the most haunting and beautiful Grammy-winning music? In Bulgaria. Visit the castle that inspired the Dracula story? In Romania. Collect exquisite Easter eggs where the tradition itself began? In the Ukraine.

These fascinating European countries straddle the boundary between Europe and Asia, and are the site of some of the most important civilizations and events in Western history. Turkey is where Greeks (remember Helen of Troy?) the earliest Christians, and the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires flourished. Bulgaria, birthplace of the Cyrillic alphabet, was a large part of ancient Thrace and a powerful empire for centuries. Romania has protected and maintained its culture despite Byzantine, Ottoman, and Communist rule. The Ukraine has fought for its land with Huns, Goths, and Avars, and suffered through the first “modern” war in the Crimea.

In Georgia, Batumi is the number one seaside resort, thanks to its subtropical climate and lush gardens. In the mountains is Tbilisi, (also Tifflis) the capital of Georgia – for the last 1,500 years! Its excellent location and rejuvenating sulphur springs made it an important stop on the Silk Route. You’ll find churches, mosques and synagogues side by side, amongst charming wood-framed houses and the curves of Art Nouveau embellishments.

On to Turkey and Trabzon, where you can climb to the 14th century Sumela monastery, clinging to the cliffs outside the city. Further west is Safranbolu, a UNESCO Site, the last and largest repository of 19th century, half-timbered Ottoman houses. In Istanbul, East and West famously meet across the Bosphorus: the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and dozens of other captivating sites will dazzle you!
The capital of Romania, Bucharest was once known as “little Paris”, thanks to its Belle Époque architecture and active social scene. There is a wide choice of museums, galleries, and performing arts to enjoy as well as many historic buildings.

The largest Black Sea coastal city and a major port, Odessa (Ukraine) features a gracious mix of elegant continental and Art Nouveau architecture. The capital city of Kiev, on the Dnipro River, is an ancient Russian metropolis, now a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles, well-seasoned with green spaces. Imagine shopping at a bustling market for onions, potatoes, and caviar!

If natural beauty and active tourism are what you’re after, the Black Sea countries have loads to offer. Among Ukraine National Parks are the Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathian Mountains, (listed by UNESCO), which extend all the way to Slovakia. Mountaineering, hiking, and mountain biking are all on offer, and a good way to spot some of the abundant wildlife as you explore.
Romania and active tourism go hand-in-hand: camp, hike, swim - or survey the countryside from horseback! The Danube Delta (listed by UNESCO) is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Bulgaria offers you some of Europe’s last untrammeled wilderness at Pirin National Park, a beautiful area of mountains and lakes. Rila and Central Balkan parks are equally breathtaking. The full gamut of nature appreciation and outdoor activities are yours for the choosing.

How about spelunking in one of Turkey’s 40,000 caves, riding the waves along the Turquoise Coast in a gulette, the traditional Turkish vessel, or running the rapids of the River Coruh?

Georgia’s national parks span terrain from subtropical coast to the Caucasus Mountains. Kolkheti National Park, bordering the Black Sea, has wetland areas with fabulous bird watching. Borjomi National Park is excellent for hiking, and horse trekking is another popular way to see the countryside. Skiing in an abundance of snow is a Georgian specialty!

The countries of the Black Sea will intrigue, amaze, and delight you. Start planning your trip!