Learn more from our expert, resident Program Directors.

Grand Circle’s Program Directors live where you’re traveling; many were raised right in your path. So no matter where you venture with us, you’ll benefit from their expertise and gain a unique insider’s perspective on local traditions and customs.

Sonya Bakalova
	“Sonya was outstanding! She gave 110%. She always went the extra mile. She worked tirelessly for out benefit. Always smiling, never a cross word, always had time for help; it seems she never slept.” Beverly & Franklin Stokes 2-time travelers Kalamazoo, Michigan
Born in: Zlin, Czech Republic Currently reside in: Varna, Bulgaria With GCT since: 2004 Languages: Bulgarian, Czech, English, German, Russian Education: Degree in Economics from University of Economics in Varna, Bulgaria Hobbies/Special interests: Dance, tennis, swimming, tae bo

Interesting Fact about Sonya: She was born in the Czech Republic but moved as a girl to Bulgaria, which made her a bit of an outsider on occasion. “I was the only child in school to celebrate Christmas, the tradition we kept at home. But under the Soviet influence, only the 1st of January was celebrated in Bulgaria and there was no Santa Claus—they only had Father Frost, a Soviet invention.”

Memorable Group Experience: Sonya is always willing to introduce travelers to local customs in unique ways. She recounts coming across a wedding celebration in Romania, where the bride and best man were going door to door with wine, inviting the villagers. Sonya stopped the bus and her travelers all congratulated the bride and ended up dancing along with the villagers to the wedding band. “I thought I was never going to get them back on the bus!” she says.

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Here's what our travelers have to say about Sonya ...

“Sonya shared her stories with us to give all of us a better understanding of life under communism and life in Eastern Europe. She gave each of us her time and attention as if we were the only ones on the tour.” Sharon & Roy Weickert 5-time travelers & Inner Circle members Elicott City, Maryland

“Sonya communicated clearly to individuals and groups, had outstanding knowledge of the tour region, was always available for special needs, and provided a superb balance of data and humor. She was always positive and upbeat, and developed a personal relationship with travelers.” Christine Stamper 6-time traveler and Inner Circle member Newport Beach, California

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Sonya Recommends ...

Food & dining: "In Bulgaria, where I live, the food made with local ingredients is fresh and delicious. One of my favorite cafés near the harbor in Ruse has the unlikely name Irish Pub, even though it serves all the best Bulgarian dishes, like shopska salad: Red and green bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives chopped and mixed with olive oil, paprika, and vinegar, and topped with crumbled goat cheese."

 

 

Hidden Gems: "You simply have to see the organ at the Church of St. Paul on Ivan Vazov Street in Ruse. The 1892 church features Hungarian stained glass, crystal chandeliers, and elaborately detailed icons, but nothing compares to its 700-pipe organ, the first organ played in Bulgaria. Truly, it is a majestic site. Preservationists are currently raising funds to repair it so that its music once again matches its beauty."

 

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