Population: 5, 400,000

Area: 49, 106 square miles

Language: Slovak

Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from last Sunday in March until last Sunday in September.)

Electricity: 220 Volts AC, 50 Hz

Geography: The Slovak Republic is bordered by the Czech Republic and Austria in the west, Hungary in the south, the Ukraine in the east and Poland in the north. The countryside is hilly and attractive to view. Mountains are in the north along the border with Poland. The southern area of the country is relatively flat as compared to the north.

International Airports:

Bratislava - The airport is 7 miles from the city and has scheduled bus service to the city center. Taxis are usually plentiful.

Vienna Austria - Schwechat Airport is only 35 miles away and is a much larger facility than the Bratislava Airport which has limited service. There is scheduled bus service and well as train connections.

Tipping: Most hotel and restaurant will not include a service charge so tipping is recommended. 5-10% is suggested.

Shopping: Shop hours are from 9 am until noon and 2 pm until closing for the day at 6 pm Monday through Friday. On Saturdays shops remain closed after noon and stay closed until Monday.

Food and Drink: There are many influences on local foods which go back to the old Austro-Hungarian Empire, bordering countries and geography. Wiener Schnitzel is a hold over from the past. Dumplings and pork dishes are to be found in almost every restaurant. In the northern regions roast mutton is a well known dish. The Slovak Republic produces it own wines which are considered to be good. Beers, spirits and other alcoholic beverages are available. Soft drinks are in good supply. There is a very strong drink called 'borovika' which is made from gin and an apricot brandy which is called 'marhulovica.'

Social: The country is fairly low keyed and formal airs are not pursued. The people are very down to earth and pleasant. Most do not speak English but will try to help you if asked. Casual dress is appropriate in most circumstances so long that it is neat. Handshaking is the usual form of greeting.

Business: Smart attire is recommended. appointments are important and punctuality is essential. English is not spoken by most business people here, but German is usually understood. Business cards are exchanged.

Climate

Summers are usually mild and pleasant much like the rest of Continental Europe. Temperature are much lower in the Carpathian mountains which run along the republic's northern border with Poland. Winters are cold and damp.