Hey, folks! I see some of you, travellers, happen to forget an important fact - Bratislava is not the only city in Slovakia. Now to be honest, Bratislava is my least favorite city. I like Poprad, Kosice, Nitra, Pezinok and other cities much better. Anyhow, cities are not the main tourist attractions of Slovakia. ~High Tatras~ (Vysoke Tatry mountains), National Park ~Slovak Paradise~ (Slovensky Raj) and other locations are the ones to look for.
Tip #1: Visit HIGH TATRAS. Get the sandals off your feet and get ready for some real trekking trip. You'll be amazed by the pure nature, fresh air and wonderful sights!
Tip #2: Don't cheap out on accomodation. Yeah, right, you could get a room in a hostel for $5, but please don't. You'll end up writing stupid stories and posting ugly pictures. Hey, wake up - shitty rooms, stinky bathrooms, no service - you get just what you have paid for. Try spending $20+ per night, you'll like every minute of your stay ;)
Tip #3: If it's raining, seek refuge in pubs and restaurants (which are really cheap, the exchange rate really is some 30 SKK for $1.) You'll most likely make some friends with the locals or at least get a taste of rich Slovak beer, tasty cuisine, and cozy ambience. Please, don't try to squeeze the best out of a day once it is raining. Have a breake, rest in a pub, socialize, and plan your journey carefully. Leaving Slovakia the very same day you find out the sun aint shining, would be a terrible mistake.
Tip #4: Approach young people (who are most likely to speak English [hey, not saying you shouldn't try even old sheppards :)]) and get to know them. Speak to them in a friendly, respectful manner. They may (as I know many who have) offer you accomodation and food at their homes absolutely free of charge :) ;) They could also be a helpfull guide.
Tip #5: You could get into a lot of trouble having an america-is-the-ruler-of-the-world sort of attitude. Young Slovaks are very friendly, but don't try to tempt their temper. You sure could meet some hot-blooded individuals who'd love to teach you a lesson. Which means, when drunk, try not to make a hero out of yourself. Avoid shouting comments about Slovak this or Slovak that...
Tip #6: Remember not to be a shame for your homecountry.
Best wishes for your journey to Slovakia. I will provide you with all the additional info requested. Feel free to ask. Peter
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![Picture of Road to Paradise (Slovak Paradise [Slovenský Raj]). Taken 2006-08-31 in Hrabusice, Slovakia by traveler Pakopeter.](http://www.traveljournals.net/pictures/s/8/82330-road-to-paradise-slovak-paradise-slovensk-raj-hrabusice-slovakia.jpg)
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