Bulgaria as a whole is situated in the moderate climatic zone. The country can be conditionally divided into two climatic zones. The Stara Planina mountain is considered the water-shed between them. Winters are colder in Northern Bulgaria and much milder in the southern part of the country. Typical continental and changeable is the climate in spring. It is exceptionally favourable for the growth of fruit-bearing trees, for whose fruit Bulgaria has been renowned in Europe for centuries. Summer is hot and sweltering in northern Bulgaria, especially along the Danube river.
        As is natural, in the high mountains the temperatures depend on altitude. There are different climatic zones, suitable of the growth of one or another rare species of crops. Typical examples are the sub-Balkan valley, referred to as Rose Valley, some regions in the Rodope mountains where one can find the unique flower of Orpheus, the region of the town of Sandanski, where olives and citrus fruit are grown, etc.
There are some interesting areas from a climatic point of view, such as the Sofia plain, the regions of Sliven and Varna, where strong winds blow almost throughout the year. In the first two cases they are due to the proximity with the Balkan mountains and its passes, which let all winds blow constantly through them. In the case with Varna this phenomenon is due to the specific microclimate of the bay of Varna and the sea air-currents coming from the north.
        
        The official monetary unit in Bulgaria is called Lev. The following coins are in circulation.
1, 2, 5 stotinki - of yellow metal
10, 20, 50 stotinki - of white metal
100 stotinki = 1 lev – white mwtal
Currency may be exchanged in all Bulgarian banks from Mondays to Fridays in the regular working hours or in the numerous private exchange bureaus, some of which operate non-stop. Payments in Bulgaria are effected only in leva or in leva equivalent. In larger resorts and at places authorised to effect foreign exchange, certain payments may be effected in foreign currency.
As a rule, every article in a shop must have a price tag. Bargaining over prices is not customary in Bulgaria. The bargaining habit may be done only on the free private market.
      The main international credit cards can be used in the country. In every major town there are cash dispensers (ATM) which are available near bank buildings, main streets, stations and most visited places.
Some hotel bills, tickets of large agencies, items from luxurious shops and restaurants can be paid by credit cards.