#conifer station is almost done

[bunnithechubs]

next wip

[leiascully]

OctoberFicFest Day 30: Hot Spring

This year, I'm using the Spooktober prompts from ArtSeaMoni on Twitter.

They're in Idaho when Mulder picks up a brochure in some gas station for a state park that has hot springs. He looks at her, a question in his eyes, and she nods fractionally. Communication, unspoken: it's saved them more than once over the years. She's never sure whether their current flight is necessary or just the result of their years of paranoia layered upon paranoia layered upon a firm foundation of surveillance and subterfuge. But she and Mulder are together again. That's all that matters. They're exhausted and they've spent almost every hour together for months. She should be sick of him. Some part of her is, every now and again, yearning for her quiet, cozy apartment with its nice furniture and its clean bathtub. But the greater part of her would go with him anywhere, suffer anything, stay at an endless series of cheap motels and wear itchy wigs and ill-fitting souvenir t-shirts.

He knows she could use a break and she appreciates that. They're both accustomed to finer things, and yet, there is nothing finer than the pang she feels when she looks at him.

They have camping equipment in the back of the car, so it's simple to make a reservation and set up a campsite. They've done it enough times to work smoothly around and with each other, fitting together the joints of the tent poles, slipping them through the fabric. The expensive sleeping bags and pads Mulder bought at some point during his exile are more comfortable than the beds in some of the motels, and there's an extra comfort in zipping them together. In the tent, she strips down and puts on a bathing suit under her jeans. He changes too, and she runs her hand down the smooth golden skin of his back. They are each other's. She has that.

It's a short drive to the springs. They hike in. The hot springs steam in the crisp piney air. Just beyond the spring, a river chuckles over glossy round rocks. It feels scandalous to slip off her boots and skin out of her jeans at the side of the trail, even though they're alone. They ease into the springs a little at a time. The water is hot enough to sting, but she relishes it. There's a clever little mechanism at the edge of the pool that lets in some of the cold water from the river. Scully sinks in up to her chin. The water has a scent like slate. She idly thinks of the bacteria that can live in a warm, mineral-rich environment and then deliberately clears her thoughts, letting the water wash them away.

"Thank you," she says with her eyes closed.

He reaches out under the water and squeezes her hand. Later, she thinks, they'll make love, moving quietly together on top of the slick polyester that holds their body heat too well, conscious of the thin membrane separating them from the cool air outside, but for now, they drift together, anchored by their clasped fingers, alone together in a wide and terrifyingly beautiful world that contains, among other things, a hot spring, a wide blue sky edged with conifers, and somewhere, their son.

[pictureamoebae]

A little update on what I’ve been doing recently.

Some will know I’ve made a ReShade preset for one of my lovely Patreon subscribers. It’s called Clear POP! The first 4 shots are some of my test shots using it. @shoobysims has their hands on it now, and I’ll be releasing it publicly to everyone next Tuesday 30th March.

The bottom 4 pictures are wip shots of a build I’m doing for another of my wonderful subscribers. The brief was a communal living space in the Conifer Station area of Evergreen Harbour, with emphasis on outdoor gardening, and room for communal activities. I’ve not too much more to do now, outside is mostly done, and I’d say the interior is about 40% done, maybe more. It’ll be available for everyone as soon as I’ve got it to the lovely simmer who asked for it. I’m having an absolute blast making it, and so far it’s almost cc-free (but not quite).

[splendidlittlesims]

Dev and Ruthie Updates

Ruthie is all grown up and married to her high school sweetheart Deven Palm.  They live in an apartment in Conifer Station in Evergreen Harbor.  Dev is in the freelance maker career.  He is such a sweetheart.  He is constantly cooking for Ruth (which is ironic because she’s becoming a chef) and trying to be the best husband he can be. 

Ruth is almost done with University.  She is studying the culinary arts with hopes to become a chef.  She rolled the dog lover trait when she aged up, which is interesting because she grew up with four (five if you count Henry who died when she was little) cats.  She also has the recycle disciple trait, but the need to recycle constantly is driving me nuts so she might be getting a new trait soon.

The center picture is Dev and Ruthie with their parents.  It took me so long to take it because they kept moving but I’m so glad I stuck with it cuz it’s so nice.  Deven’s parents are named Jean and Fallon, and Ruth is just about as close with them as her own parents.

[addictionstories]

15

I called Conifer Park the next day and spoke with a woman named Connie. She explained that Naomi could be transferred directly to rehab, but it involved coordination between the court, the jail and Naomi’s lawyer. Naomi had given me Janice’s contact information. I called her. We had an hour-long conversation, about addiction, the legal system and what people need to do to get sober. Naomi would be able to avoid jail because of her stellar service in the Army Reserves. But she’d have to do a year of probation. She’d done nearly six years in the military, although she’s stopped reporting for duty sometime last year.  She was well-liked by her superiors and had an excellent record otherwise. Everyone loved and spoke highly of her. Janice would help facilitate the transfer. 

Naomi was due back in court in Syracuse. At this point Simon was out of the picture. We’d paid him $700, 300 at our initial meeting, and another 200 at a  subsequent court date. We’d even met him in a gas station parking lot in Auburn to give him cash. But it was shy of the full retainer he’d requested. 

With multiple lawyers dealing with Naomi’s charges it was getting hard to keep things straight. Naomi had a new public defender representing her in Syracuse. Another public defender was handling her charges in Oswego.  And Simon, had been representing her in the town of Salina. It was unclear if these lawyers were communicating with each other. It was all a big mess. 

I was working that afternoon and wasn’t able to make Naomi’s court appearance. She called afterwards. Her bail had been set at $1000. Now she wanted to be bailed out, to take care of “loose ends” before she went to rehab. Naturally, I was leery about the idea. Her mom was adamantly against it also. When Naomi asked me about it I hesitated, not knowing what to say to her, but thinking in my mind I’d never agree to it.

“Oh, I don’t know,” I said.

“Please, please. I talked to my dad and he is okay with it. He’s going to put up the money.” 

“Can’t you just wait till they transfer you? What’s the difference, really? Why risk it?”

“I could meet with my Reserve Unit In Schenectady and pick up my equipment. We could go together and stay for a few days.”

Meet with her reserve unit, I thought. Now? She hadn’t trained with them in almost a year.  I thought it would be much safer for her to go right from jail to rehab.

I humored her, and agreed to at least speak to her father about it. 

He called me later that afternoon. He wanted me to pick up money at the car shop and go downtown to bail her out, since I was familiar with the procedure. He thought I should go with her to Schenectady, stay with her a few days while she met with her unit, then bring her to rehab. He said he’d even pay for a hotel. I tried to diplomatically let him know that I thought it was a bad idea. It was uncomfortable for me, but I felt I had to do it. He loved her and meant well, but this move was misguided. When it came the strength of Naomi’s addiction, I don’t think he knew what we were dealing with.

I spoke with Naomi’s mom. She thought Naomi would relapse immediately if she got out before rehab.

“She always sweet talks and manipulates her father. And he’s an enabler. If he wants to bail her out why doesn’t he do it himself.”

Over the next few days, the bail plan died on the vine. Thank God. I don’t know if Naomi’s father thought the better of it, or if her mom talked him out of it. But I was relieved.

I went to visit Naomi again that following week. She’d resigned herself to the staying in jail until she was transferred to rehab and didn’t fight me about it anymore. 

“I talked to my father. He told me how you really felt about me getting out of here.”

I shook my head. “Naomi, it’s complicated. I hate this place. You don’t belong here. I just think it’s safer to stay here until you go to rehab. There’s just less chance of something happening.”

Even thought I felt this approach was right it made me uncomfortable. I hated being the tough love guy. I know you can’t control another person, and I’d never wanted to. Who am I to tell anyone how to lead their life as a 44-year-old hobo musician living with his parents. But based on her history, I knew Naomi would starting using within an hour of walking out of this place. That had been the pattern. At least rehab would give her a chance.

A few days later, I went to her court date, for moral support. She was  transported directly from jail. The inmates sat together up at the front, to the side of the judge’s bench. I took a seat up close and watched and listened closely when Naomi’s case was called. A bailiff, an African American gentlemen with salt and pepper hair, eyed me curiously. Naomi later told me he’d asked if I was her father, which we both thought was hysterical. The judge smiled and told her she looked great, which she did, like a different person, sharp, lucid, rested, bubbly. The rehab date was set. The plan was in place. I was optimistic. 

I called Naomi’s mom from the parking lot. I told her what happened and what the judge had said.  I remember saying optimistically that Naomi was 27 now, and that she could easily get her life back on track. Her mom listened, as if tickled by my enthusiasm. 

Naomi wanted me to drive her to treatment but they wouldn’t allow it. She was still technically in custody; if she left rehab before the end she would be arrested. Conifer Park was sending a van to the jail to pick her up. But I’d be able to meet her that morning, to see her, hug her and wish her luck.  She also requested some food for the trip, an elaborate order, breakfast sandwiches from McDonald’s and Burger King, and a gallon of green mint milk from Byrne Dairy, gummy candies, chocolate. On the day of her release, I got up early, picked up the food and met her behind the justice center in Syracuse.

Naomi and two other girls were standing next to a large white van parked on the side of the building. I walked over and gave her a huge hug. No bars, no cops breathing down our necks. It was marvelous. I handed her the bag of food, the milk and a bag of her clothes she’d requested. We talked for fifteen minutes. Then the driver gave us the cue that they were leaving.  I gave her another hug. She told me she loved me. And that she’d call as soon as she could. I watching the van pull away, hopeful about the future. But with guarded optimism. 

I drove home, changed and played a lunchtime gig that afternoon. I missed her already but I felt a profound sense of security knowing that she was finally starting rehab. I’d been waiting months for this moment and was looking forward to starting a new chapter with Naomi when she got out.

It was a week before Naomi called me, but she never sounded better when I picked up the phone. Clear, sharp. She had a voice like warm honey. It cut right through to my core and made me melt, like the bow of a cello, gliding gently over my heartstrings. I had a sense of relief and joy, hearing how well she was doing. There was a visiting day on Sunday, but I had to work and wouldn’t be able to make the two hour drive. She asked me to send her some clothes - her favorite red pants, and some sweatpants and tee shirts - and told me she’d write me and call again when she could. I slept that evening with a sense of peace and optimism I hadn’t known in months. I felt healed. I was giddy. 

I drove to Naomi’s mom’s house to pick up her clothes. Her mom didn’t share my enthusiasm. She didn’t think Naomi sounded contrite, or realized the pain she’d put her family through with her addiction. She hadn’t been “humbled,” according to her mom. Naomi’s brothers had been affected deeply by her addiction. They were both angry; one of them wasn’t speaking to her. Naomi hadn’t been around for a few years. It was traumatic for her whole family.

I understood where her mother was coming from, but I remained hopeful.

I got a letter from Naomi. She said she missed me and talked how she was doing in rehab. She mentioned starting suboxone, an opioid replacement treatment. Oh man, I thought. Did she really need that? I knew that replacement therapy had helped many people, but in recovery circles it was controversial, as you’re still addicted to a drug even though it’s prescribed under the care of a doctor. And people describe hellish experiences getting off those drugs; with some claiming it’s worse than heroin. 

Naomi called a few days later. After the first three words, I could hear the difference in her voice. The cadence had changed. She sounded dulled. To someone who knew her it was dramatic. I was disappointed but tried to stay positive. 

Later that week, Naomi’s mom got in touch with me about having my windshield fixed. We set a day and time. It would take about an hour and I could “hang” with her while it was done, she explained. I was looking forward to comparing notes about Naomi. I arrived at the garage with fudge my mother had brought back from a recent trip to Italy. Things seemed slow, with her mom fielding an occasional phone call or delivery. Naomi’s father was in the back, working, but popped into the office intermittently. The dynamic between them seemed strained, as they showed little enthusiasm when they spoke to each other, which seemed only as much as necessary.

Naomi’s brother’s large doberman roamed the office as her mother and I talked. I glanced over my shoulder, smiling nervously whenever he walked behind me.  

“I don’t know why they put her on that stuff,” her mom said, referring to the replacement therapy.

“I know what you mean,” I said. I was surprised they put her on that so soon. I know it’s hard to gauge her mental state sometimes. But I am optimistic. She’s been through two tumultuous years, especially the last few months, with the legal troubles. She has to be ready to make a change now.”

When talking to Naomi’s mom, I always felt like I was doing positive PR for Naomi, because I wanted desperately for it to be true, even if I had hidden doubts myself.  It was obvious we were both worried about what would happen when Naomi got out. 

Gig with Lou in Clinton. Conversation after... standing against car, warm spring night. 

She would be getting out soon; I was going to pick her up. I was brimming with excitement. It was the dawn of a new chapter with Naomi.

[stellaseas]

Coming Soon...

I thought I’d post a preview of my Cassian x OC fanfiction!

Dark Passage. Cassian Andor’s first solo mission goes horribly awry. Seriously wounded, his face splayed across wanted signs across the planet, he is forced into hiding. His protector, however, is far from pleased to have a novice rebel spy in her home. Cassian x OC. Set seven years before the events of Rogue One.

Preview below!

Operation Vanguard.

Cassian Andor had hardly stopped to breathe since joining the Rebel Alliance. Anxious to prove himself as an invaluable asset, he had jumped at every opportunity General Draven offered up. So after five years of eager volunteering - to hell with the danger of the job in question - he had soon garnered a reputation of fierce loyalty and competence. And finally, after serving five years as a soldier and novice intelligence officer, he was being tasked with a mission of true importance. A solo mission; his own to enact in any way he chose. As he had steered his ship into the sky, he could practically taste it: this was the chance he had been waiting for, the chance to make a real difference and land a severe blow to the Empire.

Now all he could taste was blood. His own; filling every crevice of his mouth.

No one had said it would be easy. He thought bitingly, recalling the last words he had heard his father say.  

Ankara was a small planet, one of the many that made up the colonies linking the Inner Rim to the Core System. Long before the rise of the Empire, it was a bustling way station between planets; tempting many a weary traveller to pause their voyage for a chance to feel stable ground beneath their feet. Upon it’s discovery centuries ago, immigrants from all across the galaxy came to colonize the rocky terrain. Merchants and their families soon settled into the red rock valleys carved into the earth by salt rivers that wove spindly tracks from the North to the South.  Over time, the planet became known to experienced tourists as a friendly, thriving market welcoming to all who chose to visit. But it was that glowing reputation that soon condemned Ankara to a slow death. Many of the locals were vocal in their distaste of the Emperor and his dealings. As detractors fled Coruscant, the people of Ankara sheltered them. It was then that the Empire descended, choosing Ankara along with a handful of other similarly (something) planets to use as an example to all others. Flames gutted the land of conifers and farms. Those in hiding were hunted down and executed along with their protectors. State leaders and well known influencers were forced to flee or declare their loyalty. Gone were marketplaces and festivals. The planet itself, once lovingly tended to, fell into drought. Traders who had once frequented the planet chose to blacklist Ankara. And, by the time the first of the raids were over, nearly half the planet’s population had vanished.

It was from these ashes that Cassian’s target, Jonas Breda, created an empire of his own.

Cassian had committed every last detail of his briefing to memory and it was unlikely he would ever forget it. He remembered the way his chest had swelled with pride, almost to bursting, when Draven recounted to him the details of the mission. He remembered the temptation to catch the eye of Senator Mothma, although his respect and awe of her bravery wouldn’t allow it. He remembered the chill in the air, the mist that seeped through the temple walls where the Rebels had only recently made base.

“The mission itself is simple.” General Dravon had told him. Simple in theory, yes. But in execution…that was another story.

“Breda has acted as the unofficial head of Empire Intelligence for years. He holds court with the Emperor on Coruscant, but a small fraction of his work is done in secret on his home planet, Ankara. We have received intel that the Empire’s new coding modules are being kept within the walls of his compound. We have an agent inside. Dr. Rafe Gallo. He has served the Breda family for years and they trust him implicitly. He knows the location of the code docs but we cannot risk exposing his ties to The Alliance. He can extract the files, but you will need to get them off planet without arousing suspicion. We think, Andor, that you have more than proven yourself worthy of this mission.”

The success of the mission would mean a great deal to The Alliance. If they could break the codes and use them to intercept messages sent by the Empire’s massive armies, they could stand a chance at exposing the Emperor for the war criminal he was. At the very least, The Alliances comparatively minuscule militia would stand a better chance at survival.

If it hadn’t been for that damned security droid.

-

“Major...Major Andor!” Dr. Gallo called. “C-can you hear me?”

Cassian’s consciousness teetered dangerously in and out; he was far from certain that the voices he was hearing were real. Red lights flashed before his eyes, their speed turning his stomach. Nevertheless, he tried to form a response only for the words to be lost in another blood-laced cough.

“Stay with me, kid.” The doctor said between panicked, panting breaths. “I’ll get you out of here.”

The pressure in his chest was becoming too much to bear, but even now he knew...he had no choice but to take the blow. Neither he nor the doctor had expected the droid to react as it did. It’s arm, several feet long with wiring encased in steel had swung down so quickly it could have landed a fatal blow. Instead, it met with Cassian’s chest as he pushed the doctor to safety. The impact was followed almost instantly by a loud series of cracks. No doubt several of his ribs were shattered as a result. At least that’s what it felt like. The second blow came just as quickly as the first, knocking him down the staircase they had only just ascended. He had hit the ground hard, his right knee crippling under the weight of his body; making it almost impossible for him to trudge on foot.

Somehow, by some miracle, the doctor had kept his word. Where they were now...Cassian had no idea. As blackness threatened to overtake him again, he tried in vain to focus on his surroundings. The pain in his leg had grown more fervent, monopolizing his attentions. He could hear the doctor speaking again, this time loudly.

“-it was the only place-”

“The only place?! This should’ve been the last place!” Another voice spat. A female voice, all fire and smoke. “You must be out of your mind.”

“If your parents were here-”

“Don’t start with that, you’re just going to have to go somewhere else.”

“There’s no time for this. If I don’t make it to the ron-de-vou point in time the whole operation will be lost.”

Lost. His first mission lost. His eyes swelled shut and consciousness left him.

End Preview!

If you’re reading this, I would love to hear your thoughts. :0)

[tripsterguru]

25 best beaches in Bulgaria

New Post has been published on https://tripsterguru.com/25-best-beaches-in-bulgaria/

25 best beaches in Bulgaria

A trip to Bulgaria to the Black Sea since Soviet times was a dream for many lovers of the warm sun. For this, there were many important positive aspects: the water contains little salt, there are no strong tides, low tides on the coasts (they are almost invisible), the whole season from May to mid-October T water is 22-24. Many territories with convenient infrastructure and clear water are marked with the “Blue Flag” sign. The coastal zones (they can be large, small, privately owned) are covered with soft white sand. Pebbles are rare. Most of the areas are state property, there is no need to pay for a visit. The price for a sunbed is about 2.5 €, for an umbrella 2 € per day. The only (very small) drawback of staying is a meeting with jellyfish.

Sunny Beach

It has long been considered one of the country’s tourist centers. The dream of the guests of the country is a stretch up to 100 m wide with a length of 10 km. It is all covered with a fine, golden coating. Natural dunes beautifully enclose it from the outside. Descent for swimming gentle, convenient for children. Fighting the dunes, the inhabitants of the country brought tons of soil here, built modern hotels, planted shrubs, trees, flowers, creating a real paradise for vacationers.

Sunny Beach quickly became prestigious among the countries of the Union, Europe. Its infrastructure is a place of continuous entertainment: banana skiing, water skiing, visits to the Deep Blue diving center, Aquapark Action water park, kitesurfing school, golf courses and other sports grounds. Many interesting attractions were created for children, trampolines, inflatable pools, slides, carousels were installed.

Along the entire section, places for rescue services and medical rooms were organized. If during the day cheerful children’s voices are heard next to the amazing castles built on a sand cover, then at night the surroundings sparkle with lights, music of discos

Golden Sands

One of the most expensive (party) resorts in Bulgaria. Climate, nature, night shows, water activities, interesting excursions attract young families, romantic couples, elderly people.

Subscribe to our channel in Telegram, where we daily post the most last-minute tours and flights. The beaches are conditionally divided into five parts:

central. Here are luxury McDonald’s hotels, Bulgarian fast food restaurants, casinos, night clubs, bars (such as the Bierkonig, Eiffel Tower, Mojito), Ferris wheel. These travel spots are most often shown on travel posters to Bulgaria;

wild. The southern section is about 200 m long. Here the passage into the water is rocky. Nudists come here; a small stretch of shore “Seagull North”;

land strip at the Admiral Hotel. The entrance is gentle, authentic taverns work, an interesting pirate bar;

Riviera complex. Here is a water entertainment center, swimming pools, restaurants, cafes, devices for procedures with mineral water.

Water activities include banana, water skiing, a visit to the water park (it includes extreme slides), games in a special children’s town. The entrance is comfortable, gentle in all segments. Nearby stands a pier with beautiful boats, yachts, which are invited to take walks. By the sea, hotels of different price values ​​were built. At night, the entire tourist area turns into a fun disco. You can arrive at Golden Sands from the airport in Varna. Along the entire territory there are several stops of various public transport.

Nessebar

The village is located in one of the most beautiful places in Bulgaria near the Black Sea coast. On a small peninsula of ancient rocks connected by a narrow road to the mainland. It rises a new city with modern hotels, restaurants, nightclubs. In the old town (on the peninsula), vacationers will enjoy a quiet summer pastime. You can choose a paid or free coastal strip. There are many locals offering a deck chair and umbrella for a specific amount.

It’s more profitable to buy them in the store for your own use. It’s good to know that there are often waves on the surface. Fans of surfing and other marine events are provided with many opportunities. For the safety of the children’s stay, the optimal descents to the water are indicated, rescue teams are constantly working. Excursions and independent walks introduce guests to the masterpieces of medieval architecture in Bulgaria. Nessebar is included in UNESCO lists and is often called the “city of 40 churches”.

Varna

In the north-east of the country lies one of the most famous resorts – this is Varna. The warm sea, beautiful nature, bright sun and unique attractions attract a large number of travelers in the summer. Here, the ruins of Roman baths, mosques from the time of the Ottoman Empire, etc. are preserved. Having accommodated in comfortable modern hotels, guests are in a hurry to plunge into the alluring waves faster, to run through the yellow surface. This can be done on the central beach.

The seabed is covered with soft sand, waves rarely appear, admission is free. There is a rental service for sun loungers and umbrellas. On the shore there are cafes, tennis courts, sports fields, a swimming pool. You can take part in various activities on the water. All summer the air temperature keeps around +24, 26 °, water – up to + 22 ° C. Winter at the resort is warm, the average temperature is about + 3 … +4 degrees. An important advantage of a vacation in Varna is the ability to undergo treatment, the prevention of many diseases.

Albena

It seems that shallow warm water, a wide area of ​​land, a bright sun calls here families with children of any age, elderly parents. Famous healing mud will complement their stay with useful healing procedures. The balneological center, known for its healing techniques, modern equipment, is located in Albena. The Baltata Nature Reserve has been established nearby.

Vegetables, fruits used in food are grown on the resort’s own farms. Children can build castles endlessly (a calm sea will not destroy them), participate in recreational games, swim in special pools, have fun in the new Aquamania water park or two Luna parks.

Adults are invited to learn paragliding, take part in a jeep safari, play on sports grounds, visit a horse base or a beach library (the only one in the country). The resort complex has several conference rooms and a modern congress center. You can take the whole family on an excursion to the residence of the Queen of Romania, Maria Edingburg. In a remote area allocated area for nudists.

Bourgas

The city is one of the largest settlements of the country with a well-developed leisure infrastructure. There are many modern hotels. In the center there is an equipped coastal strip, entertainment complexes for children and adults work. Arriving at the resort is easy: the city has its own auto and railway stations, airport, port. Sunbathing, basking in the gentle sunshine near the central region of Burgas, taking part in sports on the water, on land is especially pleasant in a temperate climate without drying out heat.

It helps to walk long, beautiful places. This is only at the famous Marine Park, where you can see a large number of sculptures dedicated to famous residents of Bulgaria, but also the picturesque surroundings of Burgas. A popular theater has been built in the center of the park. It often hosts interesting festivals, concerts, holidays. Fans of visiting the bath will enjoy the old buildings of the city. In small cafes, restaurants are invited to try national dishes, Bulgarian wines.

Dune

The young town grew up on the Black Sea coast next to high sand dunes, comfortably protecting the coastal stretch of land, and forming a warm, comfortable climate for a stay. Dunes are included in the area of ​​reserves “Velov Vir”, “Water Lily”, where storks and pelicans gather. Among the hills you can see sand lilies, which are not common. And on the water surface of Lake Alepu, admire the unusual yellow roses, water lilies.

A distinctive feature is that having chosen a place of residence in a particular hotel, you can eat, have fun in any other hall located in the tourist zone. The coast is covered with fine sand of golden color, the bottom has a gentle, safe descent. The increase in depth goes smoothly, which is pleasant to children.

The water park has attractions that are of interest to visitors of any age. The resort’s amphitheater constantly hosts live show music shows. In the evening, melodies of cheerful discos ring. Along the southern part of the coastal area there is a wild part without modern infrastructure. She attracts people for summer solitude.

Obzor

The settlement is located at the foot of the Stara Planina Mountain. Between two capes of the Black Sea stretches a piece of land that is part of the beach of Obzor. The length of the strip covered with golden sand is about 6 km. From the land side it is protected by hills, thickets of lush vegetation. Along the coast there is a promenade, a favorite place for vacationers to walk.

Cozy cafes, restaurants, filled with delicious national dishes, wines, are also built here. Three sections are conventionally distinguished in the coastal strip. In the central part (the widest), the largest number of people have a rest. Outskirts are always less crowded. Everywhere there are necessary infrastructure elements: changing rooms, toilets, shower.

Drimsim is the first universal sim card for travelers. Internet abroad starts at $ 1 per megabyte, and calls start at $ 3 per minute. Works in 197 countries!

Hire of chaise lounges, umbrellas, cafe, bars. As entertainment, it is proposed to take part in rental catamarans. Small mountains, sand hills, forests of conifers create a pleasant, healing atmosphere. Due to its mild climate, Obzor is popular among people of different ages. A place to stay is easy to find in numerous private homes, hotels of various levels.

Byala

  In socialist times, a well-known international children’s camp worked here. The long (not very wide eco-strip) is surrounded by picturesque hills decorated with lush vegetation. There is enough space for games on equipped sports fields, launching kites, lazy use of sun loungers, umbrellas. Original water slides, horse racing on bananas, swimming with a mask, the best conditions for diving, jet skiing, aquaplaning are available daily (there are no dangerous tides).

From Obzor to Byala it is easy to walk along wild areas. On the coastline with complex ledges, bays there are many cozy places. Having studied the deep earthly layers, scientists discovered traces of ancient life in the vicinity of the city. There are very few places on the planet where dinosaur tracks are hidden almost at the surface of the earth (Mongolia, Grand Canyon, Australia, South Africa). Excursions here will be interesting to children. In modern times, many vineyards have appeared nearby. Wines, known in Europe, are invited to try in the existing tasting room.

Pomorie

The proximity of Lake Pomorie complements the attractiveness of a trip to this region of Bulgaria. Salts and healing mud of the lake are known for their healing qualities. The coverage of coastal land has a dark shade due to the high content of lake iron, manganese. Effective medicinal layers of the soil lie deep, are extracted with the help of special devices and are used in medical procedures of rooms of sanatoriums, health centers.

Together with marine factors, a unique microclimate is formed in the zone. For the stay, there are 9 sections, separated by mounds of stones. Among them are ennobled, wild, paid, free plots. Enjoy the conditions of the resort is offered on two main sections of the coastal strip: central and eastern. In the center, two sections stand out: with dark and golden sand. A gentle, safe descent is here in a small area. The bottom is rocky, depth is rapidly increasing, often large waves appear. The clean, well-groomed area of ​​the eastern part is popular.

It often hosts sports, parties, there are permanent places for sun loungers. The passage into the water is gentle, there are no stones, a small depth allows you to quickly warm up, which is convenient for trips with children and active swimming in early June. Pomorie has a water sports center. It is possible to rent a catamaran, jet ski, water skiing. Along the coast there are numerous sports fields, cafes, restaurants, spa salons. Equipped children’s towns with attractions.

Kara-Dere

A modern person more and more often has a desire to live in a corner of nature, remote from city noise. Only the sea wind, golden sand, the wonderful world of plants, mountains, hills is accessible to man. Such a place is the coastal strip between the settlements of Goritsa, Byala, Bulgaria. Rocks, thickets protect the recreation area from the external sea, without violating the wonderful conditions for surfing, other entertainment without the presence of organized infrastructure.

Here you will not find modern hotels, hotels. Only the sea, the endless rows of vineyards, the steppe, forests, the proximity of the swamp with its healing breath. Wild living is accompanied by information from an ancient legend: once here, pirates hid gold stolen from Turkish troops. The treasure gradually formed an amazing golden hue of the coating along the coast. Artists, writers, ordinary romantics seek to come here. At 6 km, land is always free. Even at the peak of the season, no one bothers to indulge in their own fantasies, to have fun among the gentle waves.

Kawaziti

It was forbidden to build hotels (there are few of them) and other institutions on this place of the Black Sea coast. You can come here from Sozopol. To do this, you can use the services of a red or green train for 3 leva (depending on the route). Come to fall in love with one of the most beautiful places in Bulgaria forever. Amazingly clean area, covered with fine golden sand, without a single pebble, sparkling clean sea without a hint of algae.

Majestic dunes approach directly to the shore. Between the sandy mountains are paths. They are not completely naked: in an amazing way, exotic plants grow among the golden sand. Along the shore there is a wooden path for the passage of vacationers. Equipped with changing cabins, toilets, showers, cafes, lifeguard towers. There is even a bathhouse.

There is a rental service that offers jet ski, banana, jet ski, boat rental. You can ride a parachute. It is interesting that throughout the area there are separate places for being with a dog and nudists. The entire resort area of ​​Kavatsite (translated as “poplar”) consists of camping with a bungalow, a place for 200 tents, several new hotels, villas.

Arkutino

You can get there by car or stay at the expensive hotel Arkutino Family Resort. This is a paradise piece of nature, hidden from civilization, giving people unusual emotions, revealing some secrets of the plant, natural world. For example, find out what a tertiary relic is that makes up the coastal strip.

How do rare sand lilies develop on dry sand? Why do water snakes reign on Snake Island (they do not sail to the tourist area) and cacti grow. It is impossible to cross the mouth of the Ropotamo River, which is part of the protected nature reserve. The neighborhood of the river forms cycles, strong currents. Prohibition posters warn about this. The beach is surrounded by picturesque cliffs.

It is covered with soft sand, has a gentle passage into the water. There are two bistro bars on site. It offers refreshing drinks, delicious dishes. Fans of active entertainment can take advantage of the windsurfing school (even beginners). On a special route that goes along the beautiful wild places of the coast, you can take walks to other areas of the Ropotamo Nature Reserve.

Ustieto

The coastal strip of the Black Sea in Bulgaria can have sand, shell, pebble. At the same time, many have rocky stretches and not very convenient descents into the water. At some points, the depth originates near the coast. These places include the area on a sand spit Ustieto near Sinemorets village. It is a tranquil resort surrounded by the Strandja Nature Park. Sea waves are washed on one side, and the mouth of the Veleka River and Strandzha Mountain are on the opposite side.

Sand, a transparent bottom covered with fine sand, lack of wind make the rest here very comfortable. A negative point for swimming children is a sharp increase in depth. It does not seek to come to a family with children. The almost wild region belongs to sparsely populated areas. Unspoiled nature, beautiful surroundings attract adults, lovers of solitude, silence, nudists.

Butamyata

The cozy village of Sinemorets is located next to the bay, bordered by a golden stripe, decorated with umbrellas, sun loungers. Despite the reliable protection from the northerly winds, waves that are loved by surfers are often formed on the sea. The coastline is guarded by cliffs with strange natural outlines. Their form causes different comparisons among vacationers. It is interesting to see among them, for example, the real head of a lion, the spread wings of a mysterious bird.

The infrastructure of the site allows you to take a deck chair, ride on the sea surface on water skis, jet skis, a banana, take part in various sporting events on land and water. Test your strengths in using the original flying “water satchel”. The beach is surrounded by a forest belt, in the shade that you can hide from the sun. Near a wide, spacious coastal strip there are several bars, pizzerias, restaurants, convenient parking for cars, sparkling new hotels.

Gold fish

The gentle wind, the salty spray sparkling in the sunshine call here bold, courageous romantics. They dream to conquer the snow-white scallops of the sea waves and realize the most daring romantic adventures. There is no modern infrastructure for beach holidays, luxury hotels. On the coastal territory only designated places for mounting tents are designated, toilets, showers with hot water are built.

But on the other hand, there is a surf school (it offers rental boards), a large number of restaurants offering unusually delicious dishes. At a campsite at a distance of 3 km from the town of Sozopol, lovers of active surfing and a quiet, secluded stay among the wildlife on gentle ground, in the flow of constant sea wind gather. The name (about 5 km long) was received by analogy with a camping. Paid parking is available on site.

Harmani

A popular place to visit Bulgaria is the small resort village of Sozopol. On its streets you can see the buildings of the cultural heritage of the country. On three beach sites, it’s great to relax and have fun. Rocky capes, protruding far into the sea, formed here cozy bays with warm water, lack of wind, comfortable living conditions in the city. The beaches of Central, Harmanite (Harmni) are popular.

The latter option was created in the southern part of Sozoplya (a short distance from the city center) and is considered an alternative proposal compared to the crowded Central. Beach infrastructure is thought out for any type of recreation for adults and children. Along the recreation area there is a calm, green alley for pedestrians. This is Ropotamo street with numerous cafes, restaurants, retail outlets. Along the coastal strip (its length is about 1 km) there are sports and playgrounds. A variety of sports equipment is available for water events.

Cabacum

Despite the fact that the beach paradise is located at a distance of about 10 km from the capital, the locals most often visit it. A coastal strip with a length of about 1.5 km is born near the Hotel Journalist. The construction of a large number of hotels is limited to high hills. Hotel guests descend along a path about 100 m long. There is a public transport stop nearby. When traveling by car, the hotel buildings, towering above the surroundings, serve as a good guide.

You can go to the sea along the coarse sand without shells (this is a distinctive feature of the coating). The sand spit is rapidly leaving for the sea, creating great depth. On the seabed, rocky patches are often found. Fenced areas are designated for children. Even experienced swimmers should not be allowed to swim. Fans of scooters, water skiing, catamarans, boats are invited to use a specific site. Separately allocated paid site belonging to the hotel.

Primorsko

On the cape, acting between Burgas and Sozople, is the resort settlement of Primorsko. It has long become a center of youth travel in Bulgaria. Here is the famous Primorsko International Center. The coastline allows you to engage in exciting water activities. There are differences for recreation in the North and South beach area. Surf fans reign in the north. The length of the plot is about 2 km and the wind is constantly blowing here. Families with children come to the southern part.

It is always quiet, calm, warm and very beautiful. Smooth, safe passage to the water, a variety of playgrounds, and excellent infrastructure make it possible to spend carefree (for parents) days here. Large pebbles on the seabed make the water especially transparent. Coastal cafes, restaurants always offer to try delicious dishes, feed the children. The outskirts of the beach area make it easy to get amid a deserted, secluded place.

Shkorpilovtsi

At a distance of 40 km from Varna is a unique (the longest in the country) place for summer travel. Here you can not hear the music of noisy discos, daily parties. Only natural songs of wind, forest, waves, extraordinary silence fill the surroundings. Despite the fact that a provincial village with a large number of hotels has been built nearby for a long time. Comfortable conditions are provided for families with small children.

In the protected area there are cafes, children’s, sports grounds. Sports equipment rental for water activities. Convenient locker rooms, showers, toilets, the issuance of sun loungers, umbrellas. A special children’s pool is equipped. The size of the beach segment allows you to create any conditions here. Fans of living in a tent with a bonfire will find a permitted place. Forest, rocks in separate sections approach the water, creating cozy corners for spending the night. They come to Shkorpilovichi even after the close of the holiday season to take wellness treatments in mineral springs.

Beach at the camping “Romance”

Among the pristine beauty of the Longoz National Reserve, the Kamchia resort has grown. This is a sports and health ensemble of a secluded place at a distance of 30 km from Varna. The southern part is adjacent to the beach area leading to the camping “Romantic”. People striving to come here, dreaming of silence, beautiful nature, the gentle sea, the lack of achievements of civilization.

Pure air, the aroma of a pine forest together with marine odors are filled with the healing power necessary for the modern rhythm of life. The lack of beach infrastructure, the usual water activities do not complicate the stay and do not violate the natural silence of nature. There is no problem in choosing a private car parking. The main attraction is nature.

Healing springs, the Kamchia River increase the interest of tourists. In good circumstances, you can meet its inhabitants turtles. You can stay at the campsite, where there are bungalows, places for tents, caravans, several bars, shops with groceries. People of Varna like to come here on weekends, on a picnic, fishing.

Bolata

Notice the golden strip near the water itself, intended for a fabulous vacation is not so simple. The unusual horseshoe-shaped space is securely hidden behind the protruding cliffs, dense forest. Lying on the hot sand, you can look at the mysterious entrances to the ancient rocky caves for a long time. The remnants of ancient dwellings, unsolved by mankind, the secrets of the life of primitive houses set up for special, philosophical thoughts.

Sailing dolphins seem to know them and try to tell something, smiling cheerfully with their kind smile. On snow-white land provides everything you need for bliss on the banks of a beautiful bay. Inside it splashes warm shallow water, and then the favorite places of divers begin: the depths of the sea. The underwater world is rich and beautiful. As entertainment, boat trips, water skiing, flights over the bay are offered to see all the beauty of Bolata.

Sveti Vlas

It is difficult to find a better option for beach pleasures than the resort of Sveti Vlas. Especially if you plan to travel with children. Pure sea air together with coniferous forest volatile products is filled with healing properties that help get rid of many childhood colds. The sun shines here from May to October, the sea warms up well. Hot, fine sand fills the shore. It is divided into paid and free areas.

A stone, low wall that goes into the water separates them. Nearby are alleyways of acacias, majestic pines, beautiful flowers. A slight drawback is the presence of wind. But windsurfing enthusiasts are permanent residents of these conditions. In the recreation area, there are rental points for various sports equipment for entertainment on the water, sports grounds. It has its own yacht club, which allows you to make interesting sea voyages. All three parts of the Black Sea coast belonging to the resort of Sveti Vlas comply with international safety requirements and are awarded the Blue Flag sign.

Irakli

Closed by the dense forests growing near the water, the beach is located in a protected area protected by the state. There are no huge hotel complexes. Noisy cities are in the distance and do not violate the environmental features of the recreation area. The nearest tourist complex is the resort “Sunny Beach”. The infrastructure consists of many elements of a beach holiday. Rescuers are working, a medical care center.

The disadvantage is the relatively low water temperature. This is due to the presence of a river current. The descent into the water is shallow, the bottom does not have sharp stones, rocky ledges. Conditionally used shore is divided into three parts. Almost all infrastructure is organized in the northern part. There are two cafes, the restaurant “Panorama”.

In the southern territory of the resort of Irakli are camping, tents, places for a wild presence. The third part was reserved for nudists. The widest space of the strip is located near the mouth of the Vaya River, is a paid site called Vaya Beach. Irakli is located near the village of Emon, Burgas region. Nearby is the eastern point of the mountain system of the country of Stara Planina – Cape Emine. You can come here by private car or taxi.

Saints Constantine and Helen

The abundance of greenery, mild climate, the existing mineral springs attract elderly people, families with small children, believers. This is the only place in Europe where, under the altar of the altar of the church of St. Constantine and Helena, a healing spring operates. Since ancient times, powerful holy qualities have been attributed to him. And the holy relics of the martyr Valentine can be asked for help, intercession. Along with relaxation under the hot sun, therapeutic procedures are offered at the resort’s balneological centers (mud therapy, apitherapy, reflexology, massage) under the supervision of specialists.

The resort is located between Varna, Golden Sands. Here, coastal cliffs formed a cozy, warm bay. About 3 km stretches a golden strip of land. The passage for swimming is gentle, safe. Part of the flows from mineral springs mixes with the waves, saturating the water with calcium, bromine, magnesium ions, sulfates, and other useful compounds.

The beach surface has a gray tint, contains quartz, useful for the human respiratory system. For people who love an active type of travel, numerous participation in exotic bays formed by rocks are offered here. The main attraction is the government residence building. A staircase leads to the architectural construction of the New Baroque style, it is surrounded by a garden, fountains.

[justwravel-blog]

Unknown Trails of Dhauladhar Mountains

Sometimes the decisions you make leads to the weirdest and memorable moments. So I had made the plans to go on trekking to Dalhousie but never knew there will be such twist and turns in this journey. It starts with me getting grumpy not feeling like going anywhere but ended up boarding the train at Bombay central without the tickets. That’s right I didn’t have the confirm tickets so I decided to board the train on general tickets. Seriously!!!

You can imagine the kind of things I have to put up with but that’s not true !!! I After TC arrivals and all that ruckus I got half seat with another playgroup that’s going to Pathankot: the nearest railway station to Dalhousie. Can you believe that!! This journey gave me the best feel for humanity ever.  I reached Chakki bank, a small station just outside Pathankot, surviving the chilly winter nights of Punjab.   Here on I had no clue from where will I find the bus to Dalhousie, how will I reach there, how long will it take? Luckily I met one family which drove me to the bus stop from where I can board the bus. After waiting a while and going through mixed emotions like kid steps out of the house for the first time, the bus came. Punjab road transport, I could never have been happier in my life when I actually saw Punjab written all over it. It was one of my many dreams to be in Punjab, all thanks to Bollywood movies !! :p The bus took almost 3hrs to reach Dalhousie its approx 80km from Pathankot. It was almost dark outside by the time I reached my base camp. After spending crazy two days travelling I was all drained out, only to be woken up at 5 am the next morning to be welcomed by the mighty Dhauladhar range sparkling in the first ray of sunrise. That moment you realize how beautiful is this planet earth and how small your life is. I had reached one day before my scheduled departure of trekking that gave me one full day to explore Dalhousie town, a small beautiful town Located on the western edge of the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas, it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Dalhousie is situated between 6,000 and 9,000 feet (2,700 m) above sea level. This day went by acclimatizing in this altitude, seeing around town and buying few winter clothes which I realised are very necessity of my survival in this blistering cold weather. Day 2: Trek to Kalatop We started our ascent for Kalatop this day. The trail was amidst nice deodar forests and narrow trails. The last few km route was very beautiful with big deodar trees and snow all around. Kalatop is the highest point of this trek and it was quite cold. Kalatop is one of the most pristine destinations in Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh, and is known for the lush green surroundings and snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

Enroute to Kalatop

Our stay at Forest rest house Sunrise at Kalatop Day 3:  Trek to Khajjiar   The trek was pretty and scenic with a lunch break at a cold mountain stream. We had locals preparing Maggi for us and some local delicacies.  Except for last 1 km, the route was all through the forest. Khajjiar is called the Switzerland of India, along with Kashmir. Before reaching the hotel which serves as the camp we passed the Khajjiar park which is exceedingly pretty covered with snow all over surrounded by lush green conifers. The thing that made Khajjiar so special to me was its new years eve. I had spent my new year’s eve watching stars glowing to their full glory on the moonless frizzing night. That night spent counting so many constellations just aren’t visible in our polluted cities.

Forest Trail

Crazy people at Khajjar lake

    Sunset at Khajjar

Sunrise at Khajjar

  Day 4: Trek to Mangla   This day was * supposed * to be the easiest part of the trek. Light. A cake walk if you will was the way it was sold to us. And naively enough I believed it.     Just when I thought that I had started to get the hang of trekking, we met Mangla. I’d thought that there could be nothing more difficult in this universe than climbing uphill, but I was in for a rude shock! Trekking downhill sucks! With your entire body weight (inclusive of the 7kg back pack) falling on your knees, it sure is not a walk in the park. The highlight of the trek was the lunch break! We had reached the top of a hill and man, what a breathtaking view it was! The snow clad Himalayas in all their glory, almost a stone’s throw away. A lot of us wolfed down our packed lunches and crashed for an hour. It was nice and warm here, a huge relief from all that cold! Before we knew it, our little nap was over and onward we marched, desperate to finish this last lap and finally relax. And it’s all downhill again! Perfect. The other upside to the trek were the lush green hills where the locals had done step farming which made it look so neat and beautiful at the same time. It was like watching Natgeo channel but more feeling it !! ;) We passed a lot of small houses with little kids waving and smiling at us excitedly and in a way, gave us a little more strength and distracted us temporarily from the painful downhill trek.  If my legs could talk, they’d probably be screaming bloody murder right now. I kept asking the local kids we passed by, about the remaining distance to Mangla, every time receiving the same scripted answer, bas thoda door aur. I had been here long enough to know how true that was! It now dawned on me, that we were in a different universe altogether. The route was pretty with mustard and onion cropped along step farms. But the incessant downhill track was way toooo long :p. Time moved slower for us! Anyway, after a lot of mental cursing and cribbing, I made it! I reached our final destination, if I may. Oh nothing had ever looked more glorious than the Mangla base camp. Mangla was a great camp to celebrate the New Year in a relaxed manner. And the dinner that day was especially good with lots of gulab jamuns . :)   Day 5: Back to Dalhousie Base Camp and no further return tickets again :P   The bus transfer back to Dalhousie is a very pretty rife and through most of the route you see the pretty Jhelum accompany you. At the base camp we were given lunch and got our luggage back. On this trip made some great friends which were delighted to have me on board their further trip. So I headed to a new destination with new friends with no plans whatsoever.

The best part in life sometimes comes unplanned. ☺