A topic posted a few days ago in the largest English-speaking group for the region – Bansko Notice Board, blew up social networks and raised again the eternal question of second cabin in Bansko. The post, which quickly garnered dozens of comments and reactions from the international community, reveals that the patience of loyal tourists is starting to run out.
The charm of taverns versus the need for modernization
Steve Van Der Kruijf, the author of the original post and a visitor to the resort since 2005, sets the tone for the debate. He emphasizes that the city's appeal is no longer based solely on low prices, but on the "homely charm and hospitality" that are invaluable. But his warning is clear:
If Bansko иска да расте и да запази статута си, трябва да подобри ски имиджа си и да изгради second cabin in Bansko, as well as to expand the area. This requires massive investment, but it is the only way forward.”
Many tourists in the comments support the thesis that without new infrastructure, growth is impossible. The clash of opinions regarding the comparison with Switzerland is interesting. Brian Ferris notes that many Swiss resorts still use old lifts, but Bansko's problem is not in the modernity of the facilities, but in the capacity to cope with the crowds.
The Ecological Case: Protection of Pirin or “Green Terror”?
As usual, the topic of second cabin in Bansko divides the group into two camps. Some of the commenters directly blame environmental organizations (“greens”) for the halt in development.
On the other hand, users like Nikolay Abadzhiev recall the objective reality of the mountain:
The price shock: 9 Euros for a beer?
Besides the lack of infrastructure, the discussion in the group also sheds light on another problem – prices. Comment on price from 9 euros for a can of Guinness and complaints about the “greed of restaurants” are gaining serious approval. Foreigners are categorical: Bansko is losing its advantage as a budget destination, but it still does not offer the premium service that would justify the new prices.
The future according to foreigners: Summer, not winter?
An interesting alternative is creeping into the comments. Instead of waging war for winter, many long-time visitors see the potential in summer tourism:
- 🌲 Summer festivals: The jazz festival is cited as an example of sustainable growth.
- ⛰️ Eco tourism: Transitions to Bezbog and the peaks that do not require heavy infrastructure.
See the original discussion
This debate is indicative of the sentiment among the people who invest their money in Bansko every year. If you want to read all the opinions or join the conversation (in English), you can do so in the original post.
👉 See the discussion on Facebook here
*Membership in the Bansko Notice Board group is required for access.
Do you share the opinion of foreigners that Bansko is becoming too expensive and overcrowded? Write to us in the comments below!
English (UK)