Slovakia is a small, peaceful country in Central Europe that many dream of escaping to. With only 5.5 million residents across its 49,000 square kilometers, Slovakia offers a relaxed pace of life close to nature in the heart of Europe.
Slovakia’s Unique Identity in Central Europe
Slovakia is often confused with its neighbor Slovenia. In fact, many mix up sending packages and documents between the two! However, Slovaks have a strong national identity and take offense at being associated with other nations. While some label Slovakia Eastern European, Slovaks consider themselves Central European and part of the West.
As a European Union member, Slovaks identify as European. Like Belarus, Slovakia was split between Eastern and Western mentalities after the Cold War. But most Slovaks see themselves as Western today. Slovakia’s EU membership allows locals to travel and work freely around Europe.
Access to Europe from Slovakia’s Borders
Living in Slovakia provides easy access to neighboring nations. Residents automatically get a SCHENGEN residence permit to enter nearby countries. Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital in the west, is only an hour from Vienna, Austria by train or car. Rail links run between Bratislava and Vienna every two hours.
Trains are the main transportation around Slovakia and into other European countries. With scenic routes and developed rail networks, Slovaks often travel domestically and abroad by train rather than flying. Bratislava’s train station is always abuzz with travelers. For long distances, flying into Slovakia’s international airports with a SCHENGEN visa is most convenient.
Slovakia’s Landlocked Summers and Winters
Without a coastline, Slovakia lacks beach vacations. But Slovaks head to the Danube River running through Bratislava during summer. Settlements near the southern border also utilize the river for recreation. The Danube has created a lively tourism sector with water activities.
However, Slovakia’s land borders create cultural fusion. Eastern regions exhibit Russian, Ukrainian and Polish influences, while Hungarians dominate southern areas. Despite varied backgrounds, Slovaks share a national identity. They take pride in their small but mighty country.
Exploring Slovakia’s Untouched Beauty
Centrally situated, Slovakia retains authentic medieval architecture and Gothic castles. With just 5.5 million people, much of Slovakia is pristine forest. In fact, Slovakia has some of Europe’s highest wild animal populations, including wolves and bears.
City centers also showcase charming “Old Town” vibe without towering high-rises. While modernized, Slovakia maintains its architectural heritage and history. Since becoming independent in 1993 and joining the EU in 2004, Slovakia balances progress and preservation.
Slovakia’s Diverse Population and Job Opportunities
Slovak is the official language, but Hungarian and Russian pockets exist. English suffices for young people in cities, but learning Slovak helps greatly. There’s religious freedom without dominance – 60% are Christian, 40% other faiths or non-religious.
Slovakia’s minimum wage is 700 Euros monthly, while average salaries range 1300-2000 Euros. Engineers can earn above 1500 Euros, and doctors over 2500. With reasonable cost of living, Slovakia entices professionals.
As an affordable European labor market, Slovakia draws automakers like Volkswagen and Kia for factories, hiring engineers. Skilled individuals take temporary jobs then settle down long-term through marriage and family. With more women than men, Slovakian women are considered very beautiful from European genetic mixing.
Slovakia for Nature Lovers and Hockey Fans
Around 80% of Slovakian women and 73% of men live to old age, suggesting good healthcare and living standards. Wanderers will appreciate bronze statues and tidy streets in Slovakia’s capital. At night, street musicians in Old Town accept small change.
Locals are passionate about ice hockey, with Slovakia ranking among the world’s top teams. During global tournaments, Slovaks cheer on their teams enthusiastically while drinking heavily. Despite this, Slovakia maintains low crime rates and peacefulness.
Conclusion
With relaxed living, safety, nature, and accessibility to Europe, Slovakia is an underrated gem. Its small size ensures a warm, welcoming population and community feel. Consider Slovakia for an authentic European experience without crowds and chaos. This overlooked country offers the best of Europe in bustling cities like Bratislava and quaint villages nestled within forested mountains.