Bulgaria

where the Cyrillic alphabet is the only thing more confusing than the country's communist past.

Bulgaria: where the word "balkanize" was invented, and also where you'll find the best shops for affordable, yet surprisingly fashionable, communist-era clothing.

Bulgaria: where the ancient Thracians left behind a treasure trove of mystery, and also the world's most enthusiastic amateur archaeologists, who still insist that they're 100% related to the Thracians.

Bulgaria produces a significant portion of the world's rose oil, used in perfumes.

It is one of the oldest countries in Europe, established in 681 AD, and has never changed its name.