Small Slovenia, population 2 million, was the first slice of Yugoslavia to gain its independence. Its strong Austrian tradition moved the country on a fast track and was able to join the European Union and NATO in the first wave. Driving through Slovenia, you realize how similar the country is with its northern neighbor. 

The countryside is charming with the enchanting town of Bled, the medieval center of Sfokia Loka, the famous painted church of Hrastovlje, and the Slovenia jewel of the Adriatic, Piran. Ljubljana is a charming city with a relaxed atmosphere with people sipping drinks on the banks of Ljublijanica, the river crossing the town. The castle on the hill, the cathedral with impressive bronze doors, and the old pedestrian town completes the landscape. West of the city is the world-renown Postojna Caves, the only cave in Europe with a 2km train ride running at high speed through stalactites. (Maribor)