One of my favourite things to do is to learn about destinations that I'd never really considered to visit.
Recently the Slovenia Tourism Board visited New Zealand at the end of a promotional tour.
Slovenia is tiny. 2 million people in 20,000 sq kms. Geographically, you can be skiing in the Alps in the morning, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea in the afternoon.
I was struck by the similarities in approach between their promotion and the promotion that Tourism New Zealand does for this country. Both places focus on green, active and healthy adventures, so it's a natural fit for Kiwi tourists.
Slovenians pride themselves on their environmental efforts, their friendliness and their safety.
Key points of interest include the capital, Ljubljana - the European Green Capital of 2016, with its Castle and other arts and cultural sights, Piran a picturesque Meditterranean walled town, and the Postojna Cave - the most visited tourist cave in Europe.
If you're a foodie (I sure am!), there are many gastronomic regions in Slovenia, influenced by its neighbours. Slovenia is home to Ana Roš, named World's Best Female Chef in 2017, and who has been featured in the Netflix series Chef's Table.
I'm thinking Slovenia could be a great place to visit for more than the usual couple of days when touring Europe. It depends on how you like to travel, but I know I could happily stay in the Capital and visit the entire country over the course of a week. It's now on my list!
^sd