Spectacular Slovenia (shownotes)

Here's a digest of what we talk about in our "Spectacular Slovenia" podcast. With its high peaks, pristine lakes, caves, a seashore, Slovenia is a disgustingly lucky - and beautiful - country.

Our first days in Slovenia were spent rafting on the Soca river and "canyoning" - sliding head first down waterfalls and jumping off of really high bridges, in a rubbery suit. Tours can be arranged in the town of Bovec. We stayed in a sleepy little village called Cesoca which had a restaurant that served up incredibly fresh fried squid.

We camped for a couple of days at the friendly-if-crowded Camp Zlatorog, where we rented a canoe to traverse Lake Bohinj.

Be sure to check out the World War I Museum in Kobarid, where we met some young, friendly Slovenes in the tourist office. They've never climbed Triglav(!). Should they still be considered Slovenes?

Ah, yes, Triglav. Slovenia's "three headed monster". We had a great time over our three day climb, but, frankly, it was a little scary at times. Be prepared with the proper equipment, like proper hiking boots, rain gear, etc. Some basic climbing equipment could also come in handy. Make sure your pack is light. Make sure you have some food, but get ready to eat the basic-yet-awesome hearty fare (like barley and bean soup) in the refuge houses. You won't be showering for a few days.

When the Slovenes indicate a trail as "difficult" on a map, please believe them. One trail we picked was so long, circuitous and treacherous that it made us a bit panicky. At one point we had to climb over a huge snow drift which was blocking the trail.

After our climb we drove to picturesque Lake Bled, surrounded by romantic villas and emitting delightful shades of blue and green, where we met up with Izabella's parents. We took a gondola trip to the church on the island of Pletna. Ring the bell to figure out how many sons you'll have, take some fun runs down the hill in a bobsled and have some delicious seafood pizza and Lasko beer out in the sun.

The host of our pension house, Boza, was wonderfully kind. To reserve a room, go here.