Slovenia

Even serial visitors to Slovenia like myself often stop and stare, mesmerised by the sheer beauty of this land. The wondrous bucolic valley of Logarska Dolina brings heaven to earth, and at the dramatic Vršič pass through the Alps I feel on top of the world in every sense. I can never tire of the wonderful and varied architecture, excellent wines and traditional dishes, and vibrant folk culture. But for me the country's greatest attribute is the Slovenes themselves: quietly conservative, deeply self-confident, remarkably broadminded, especially tolerant and very, very hospitable.