text:
- About us
- Blogs
- Funding/Donations
- Challenges
- Chapters
- Papers
- Projects
- Code of Conduct
- Google SoC
- Recent posts
- Security Workshops
OCERT - Chapter Status Report For 2013
OCERT Honeynet is Oman National CERT (OCERT). OCERT chapter was officially launched in April 2010 to analyze risks and security threats that may be present in Oman cyberspace. The members of OCERT Chapter are:
• Yousuf Alsiyabi
• Suliman Al Hinai
• Nasser Salim Al Hadhrami
low interaction honey pot technology are deployed as follows :
-Dionaea :A number Dionaea sensors were deployed to capture the malware and find the infected systems in country cyber space. The feeds from sensors is collected through xmpp server
-Cuckoo : The version of cuckoo sandbox (version 0.6) is deployed .
-Glastopf : It was deployed as web application honeypot .
-SurfIDS : SurfIDS collects the data picked up from different sensors placed within the network, of malware , webattack .
Cyber Threat Intelligence Gathering System – Phase.1: The project aims to collect the cyber threats which target the world wide cyber space such as spam , phishing ….etc . In additions, the project aims to identify the infected systems and enhance the mitigation capability of the botnet risks that infect citizens .
Web Attacks Detector System Phase.1: is an intelligent system that used to detect and protect some national web applications from many kinds of attacks. Web Attacks Detector is to analyze all users' Requests (can be customized to some certain requests to avoid Server load) and recognize whether safe or not. In case of unsafe Request, the system has the ability to recognize what kind of attack it could cause (SQL, XSS, and uploading file … etc). Additionally, a notification will be send to CERT Team so the request can be analyzed deeply and assess its severity [Low, Medium, High].
• Honeynet Project Annual Workshop 2013, Dubai
• OIC-CERT Cyber Security Drill 2013
• ITU Regional Cybersecurity workshop -2013, Muscat
• An increment in the number of compromised IP addresses collected from around 68 countries.
• Most of those compromised IP addresses are infected by one of the following C&C:
o ZeroAccess
o pushdo
o zeus
o GameOver_Zeus
o zeus-p2p
o Pushdo_SpamBot
o Sality_Virus
o Neurevt
o Ransomware
• There is an increment of about 85% in the number of received phishing URL.
• Top phishing URLs targeting PayPal, Apple, Google, and Amazon.
The high level statics is shown in OCERT chapter website : http://cert.gov.om/honeynet
Our goal in 2014 are enhancing the current systems that are monitoring the cyber threats . In additions, we are planning to deploy the HoneEeBox .


text:
Marvels The Avengers cast mates Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo will present together on the Oscar stage, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The only main team members not announced as presenting were Chris Hemsworth and Scarlett Johansson.
"We are happy to re-unite the 'Avengers' cast to present on our show," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. "Audiences who enjoyed the year's biggest box office hit will be excited to see these terrific actors back together again."
Downey has twice been nominated for an Oscar, for his leading role in Chaplin (1992) and for his supporting role in Tropic Thunder (2008).
Evans, who will be making his first Oscar show appearance, will be seen in the upcoming The Iceman.
Jackson was nominated in 1994 for his supporting role in Pulp Fiction. He can also be seen in this years Best Picture nominee Django Unchained.
Renner was nominated for his leading role in 2009 Best Picture winner The Hurt Locker and for his supporting role in The Town (2010). Renner had roles in this year's The Bourne Legacy and Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol (2011).
Ruffalo received his first nomination for his supporting role in 2010 Best Picture nominee The Kids Are All Right.
Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Since the beginning of the credit crunch in August 2007, a total of 27 banks have closed their doors, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
This year alone, 25 banks have gone under. Take a look at the failures of 2008 (in chronological order), as measured by total assets and the cost to the FDIC's deposit insurance fund.
>Safety Nets For Savers And Investors
>How to Know If Your Money Is Safe


text:
Home buyers in Toronto do not appear to be taking the country's economic woes to heart. In 2009, more homes were sold and, on average, more dollars paid for each purchase than last year.
According to the fourth-quarter Housing Market Outlook report from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) released this week, resales completed through the MLS listing service in Toronto in 2009 are expected to total 82,000, up from 76,387 sales last year. Sales are then forecast to drop back to 78,000 next year.
"The strength in resale activity this year is a reflection of the aggressive interest rate cuts," note the report's authors. "This policy response worked better than anticipated in the Toronto housing market. Record low borrowing costs and price discounts accumulated during the winter months lured droves of buyers into the market."
According to CMHC, average prices are likely to continue to rise.
"Tight market conditions and a compositional shift in sales towards single-detached homes will push up average selling prices by more than 3% this year to $392,540," the report says. "Price growth will slow as the market returns to a balanced position, with the average selling price for 2010 rising about 2% from its current level to $412,000."
In the new-homes market, sales are expected to reach 28,500 units this year and remain more or less constant at 29,000 in 2010. According to CMHC, for the first time since 2006, low-rise houses will account for the majority of newhome sales in the GTA this year and next, climbing 37% to 17,000 this year and 15,500 next (still above the 2008 level). The strength now is in single detached homes, but as next year moves forward, sales will focus on semi-detached and townhouses, and high-rises again, as buyers look for less expensive properties in a slightly higher price and interest rate environment.
CMHC notes that while buyers have been coming out in force, many potential sellers had stayed on the sidelines waiting for a bottom to solidify. The report says new listings will decrease by 17% to reach 135,000, giving a sales-to-new listings ratio of just over 60% for this year.
"This will categorize 2009 as a sellers' market -- characterized by a rise in multiple-offer scenarios and shorter days-on-market averages," note the report's authors. "More supply is expected to come on the market next year as confidence amongst sellers improves and prices move higher."
CMHC forecasts a return of a balanced market for the Toronto area next year, with listings expected to climb to 150,000 units, which, combined with a lower level of sales, would culminate in a 52% sales-to-new-listings ratio.
On the national front, CMHC notes that the healthy pace of sales witnessed in the second and third quarters of this year is a result, in part, of delayed activity from the first part of the year and is therefore not expected to be sustained. Existing home sales are expected to reach 441,300 units in 2009 and rise to 445,150 units in 2010. The average national MLS price is forecast to be $312,950 in 2009 and $324,500 in 2010.
CMHC says housing starts are on their way to recovery and are expected to reach 141,900 for this year and to rise again next year to hit around 164,900.
"Demand for existing homes has rebounded since the beginning of the year," notes Bob Dugan, chief economist for CMHC in a release. "In addition, lower inventory levels characterize both the new-and existing-home markets. As a result, stronger housing demand will be reflected in higher levels of housing starts in 2010."
Even the moribund market south of the border showed signs of life in September. Pending home sales galloped past market expectations, advancing 6.1% on the August numbers, a hefty 19.8% rise on the same month last year.
"The report provides further confirmation that a pick-up in U.S. housing market activity is continuing to take root," notes Ian Pollick, economics strategist at TD Securities. "Given ... approximately 80% of pending home sales become existing home sales within two months suggests that the existing home sales data going forward should be quite robust."


text:
This is my absolute favorite movie of all time because it portrays the human experience of loss so well and it also features psychotherapy in a realistic way. This was Robert Redford's directorial debut, which also starred. Mary Tyler Moore, Donald Sutherland, Judd Hirsch and Timothy Hutton, who wow in their performances.
2. A Beautiful Mind (Schizophrenia)
The true story of Nobel Prize Winner John Nash is told in this award winning film. Russell Crowe and Jennifer Connelly star. Directed by Ron Howard.
3. The Soloist (Schizophrenia)
This is the true story of Nathaniel Anthony Ayers, a former Julliard Student, who falls into the depths of schizophrenia. When reporter, Steve Lopez, befriends him, both of their worlds change. The ethical issues of treatment of mental illness are realistically portrayed. Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx offer great performances.
4. Canvas (Schizophrenia)
A young boy moves through the his mother's psychotic episode with the help of his father and friends. Joe Pantoliano, Marcia Gay Harden and Devon Gearhart are inspiring to watch.
5. Bird (Substance Abuse/Eating Disorder)
The true story of Charlie "Bird" Parker, Jazz legend, and his struggles with mental illness. Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Forest Whitaker. Fantastic soundtrack.
6. Rain Man (Autism)
Dustin Hoffman delivers an award winning performance as a man with Autism and Tom Cruise as the brother who doesn't understand him.
7. Fearless (PTSD)
Jeff Bridges is unforgettable in his performance as a survivor of a plane crash as is Rosie Perez in this emotional tale of trauma, loss and recovery.
8. Lars And The Real Girl (Social Anxiety Disorder)
This film knocked me out with its poignant storytelling of a young man living in a rural Minnesota community. Ryan Gosling and Emily Mortimer star.
9. A Lion In Winter (Personality Disorders)
10. The Night Listener (Factitious Disorder)
Robin Williams and Toni Collette tell this true-based story from the experiences of author Armistead Maupin, and his connection to a mysterious young boy.
11. Bug (Shared Psychosis)
Ashley Judd and Michael Shannon meet and discover a shared experience. This film begins slowly and soon reveals itself - and as the horror unfolds, it infects you as a viewer as well.
12. Clean, Shaven (Schizophrenia)
I don't think I have ever experienced a film that so vividly takes you into the the life, mind and world of a person who lives with Schizophrenia. Actor, Peter Greene, and writer/director Lodge Kerrigan, create a film that is both meaningful and moving to watch.


text:
I had a good year at the Low-Key Hillclimbs this year. Often by the time October rolls around fatigue from the year is starting to kick it. Last year I came into the series fairly fresh and fit, but then started a new job and my fitness went straight downhill from week 3 (my first) onward.
I finally started exercising at a reasonable rate again in April this year, a mixture of running and some cycling (mostly long commutes to work), and surprised myself with a sub-1:31 half marathon in August: I considered that good given my lack of formal running background. So I knew I had some fitness but wasn't sure about how I'd do on the bike. I did a few climbs of Diablo before the series, just to get some climbing legs, and was surprised my times weren't so bad. But for the Low-Keys, you've got to be better than "not so bad". Everyone seems to raise their game for the series.
But despite my worries I did pretty well. So as the series wound down, Tim Clark asked me if I was going to try for an Old La Honda time. Old La Honda is, to me, the most prestigious climb for times. More riders know their Old La Honda times than any other.
I've been adding some volume to rebuilt my aerobic base prior to the San Bruno Hillclimb on the New Year: during the series it was more about working hard Saturday to Tuesday then being fresh for Saturday.
So I got in some solid work Thanksgiving weekend, then the following weekend. I was pretty tired on Monday, so went super-light on my usual Monday weight room workout. Tue I felt a bit better, but a work meeting kept me from either riding in or riding at lunch. So I was starting to feel fresh again Tuesday night: a good change to give Old La Honda a shot on the Wednesday noon ride. It wasn't optimal: a few days of light work following my recovery would have been better. But I valued the chance to ride with the group rather than try a solo effort.
My last PR attempt on Old La Honda had been successful: in July 2009 I had set out to break 17 minutes and was delighted with my result, 16:49. It was a redemption against having failed miserably at the Diamond Valley Road Race the weekend before, where failing to follow through on my previous two strong races there, I'd been dropped on the first lap. For that attempt I'd ridden a very steady pace, turning my 36-18 gear until near the top, where I upshifted to my 17-cog.
It might seem surprising I'd not tried again. But a good run at Old La Honda requires that I be fit and rested, and that I'm willing to bring my Fuji with its climbing wheels on the train. The key thing here is fit and rested. Devoting a three o r four day block to a good Old La Honda time is a luxury in which I rarely indulge. So most of my rides up the hill are for training only, typically on my Ritchey Breakaway with clincher wheels, carrying water bottles, a heavy tool bag, and a pump. Almost always I've I'd done some sort of hard ride the day before, as well.
So I risked bringing my Fuji SL/1 with it's light wheels and 180 gram Vittoria Corsa time trial tubulars on the morning train and from there to work. At lunch, I met Mark Johnson and we rode along glass-strewn Central Expressway on our way to the ride start: a serious risk for the ultra-thin tires and no spare. But we made it, and I felt fairly good.
Doing good OLH's from the Wed Noon Ride used to be compromised by a fast pace over Arastradero and Alpine Road, then jamming to the sprint at Woodside. But no longer: the focus is now, thanks to Matt Allie's leadership, strictly on the climb. So the ride to the base is at a nice warm-up pace.
Conditions were fairly good for the attempt. The road is in historically good condition, most notably the upper portion which was repaved within the past few months. And winds were forecast to be light, from the north, a tailwind (winds are generally blocked by the trees on the climb, but every little bit helps). Cool temperatures had me carrying more weight in clothing than I'd prefer, but as we approached the climb and were stopped by construction crews on Portola Valley Road, Peter Tapscott offered to carry my jacket and empty water bottle for me. My excess mass was in my long-sleeve undershirt, my heavy long-fingered gloves, my compression tights, additional calf compression socks,and the wristwatch I'd forgotten to remove before leaving my office. All of this adds up, probably worth 2-3 seconds on the climb, the wind resistance from the gloves maybe an additional second. But I couldn't pick the weather and I wasn't going to help myself by under-dressing. Some recent emergency repairs to my bike due to a broken Power-Cordz added some additional weight: at least another second there. It all adds up.
As we hit the base of Old La Honda I made a tactical error. My plan had been to start a bit back, then move up to the early pace-setters, essentially shaving a second or two. But this back-fired, as nobody took control of the pace, and I was stuck in traffic. I went to the extreme left of the road, moved up, and went to the front myself. Not the best way to start: I should have hit the bridge marking the start of the climb at speed and carried momentum up the initial slope.
I was joined by Chris Zappala, who'd mentioned he'd commuted to Palo Alto from San Francisco earlier that morning. Despite the hard ride in the cold, he was ready to ride, so I got on his wheel for early pacing. As I climbed I looked down at my cassette to assess my gear. I had a 12-23 cassette, so tried to count the number of cogs between the chain and the end of the cassette and figure out which gear it was. Was it 17 or 18? It felt as if we were going fast, in either case, but I doubted if I was spinning the 17 that I would be able to sustain that pace.
I came across James Porter and Greg McQuaid climbing together. I'd expected them on the noon ride itself but they'd clearly decided to leave early on their own. Tim Clark was going to be with him but I didn't see him. Greg was recovering from a broken collar bone so I didn't expect him to be in top fitness right now, so I focused instead on riding with Chris.
Chris eventually faded, as expected given his morning commute, and I moved ahead. I hit the first mailboxes in 5:50-something, the fastest I'd ever done. That didn't seem to necessarily be a good thing. Then I noticed that I was indeed in my 17 cog, so downshifted to the 18. This put me back to where I wanted to be, gear-wise, but not where I wanted to be feel-wise. I was becoming distressed, struggling to maintain pace through the steeper corners, and there was still a long way to go. In 2009 I'd still be climbing seemingly effortless at this point.
I came upon Tim Clark, whom I was able to catch. For awhile he served as a nice rabbit, but eventually I caught him and he cheered me on as I passed. But I was feeling a growing sense of despair. I tried to suppress all negative thoughts, to simply push onward, but I couldn't deny that I was struggling.
I shifted down into my 19.
Now it was official: I'd gone from "get back onto pace" to "minimize losses". Sub-17 was still possible, I told myself, keep up the pressure, don't let up. Even if I were to miss 16:49, I still wanted to make Strava page 1, which required 17:08. This was no time to indulge in self-pity!
I looked down at my computer and saw 16-even with a few turns left. I knew that these turns always eat up way more time than expected: it always seems time accelerates here. But I kept pushing, all hope of smooth form now gone.
There it was: the mailboxes, then the stop sign. As I approached I looked again at my computer, the first time since I'd seen 16. 16:35 it said just as I went to hit the lap button at the stop sign. I'd done it: a new PR. Official time (from the Garmin) = 16:36.31.
It was with interest that I uploaded the data from the Garmin, and sure enough, the numbers tell me what I already knew from my gear selection: I faded.
To generate this plot I differentiated my altitude versus time, then applied a bi-exponential convolution with a 5-second time constant to smooth the data. To avoid issues with the smoothing at the beginning and end, I excluded the first and the final 500 meters. This generated the data with the red points. I then did a non-linear regression, fitting a decaying exponential to the result (the exponential versus distance, as opposed to time, but the two yield essentially equivalent results). This fitted function is plotted with the dashed curve. On the left of the plot is the rate of ascent represented as meters/hour ("VAM"). On the right I show the projected Old La Honda time for each VAM. The green background is sufficient to break my previous PR of 16:49. Red implies I'm losing ground versus that result.
You can see I obviously started way too fast: a 15-minute Old La Honda pace. Some people can do that (Ryan Sherlock beat 15 minutes the weekend before my ride, although Eric Wohlberg has the unofficial self-timed record at 13:50). I cannot. So as the climb progresses, the trend line has my climbing rate decrease at 3.4% per kilometer. Finally at around 4.5 km I crack fairly badly, my pace dropping even below this decaying trend. But I rallied toward the finish and regained some of that lost time.
Honestly: if I'd known my pace was going to be this far from uniform, I'd have said no way would I have been successful. But I was successful, which tells me that I am able to go out fairly hard, too hard, and still retain enough to do well for this interval. This is important for the San Bruno Hillclimb on 1 Jan, where there are considerable draft advantages for staying with a pack near the beginning, and given my experience here, it seems I can afford to go into the red to hold onto early wheels there. San Bruno is a relatively tactical climb, as there's an unavoidable recovery half-way as the route descends and turns under the main road on which it begins. Then from there the winds can make it very difficult to bridge gaps which may have formed on the first portion. So holding onto a good group is really important.
Anyway, it will be fun to see how it goes. I'm hoping for good weather on Jan 1.


text:
Mattress fire injures mother of 2
06/19/2014 6:59amA woman is recovering at a hospital after her mattress caught on fire while she was sleeping. Her two children were not injured.
1 stranded hiker dies, another rescued near Ogden
06/19/2014 7:30amSearch and rescue crews headed back into the mountains east of Ogden Thursday morning to recover the body of a man who died while hiking with his family. Officials say the group was not prepared for weather conditions.
Driver escapes vehicle seconds before semi-truck hits it
06/19/2014 7:56amSam Miller rolled his truck on I-15 early Thursday morning. He escaped the cab just in time to avoid a semi that slammed into his truck.
Utah gas prices may climb due to fighting in Iraq
06/19/2014 8:46amIn light of the eroding situation in Iraq, AAA predicts that drivers will pay between $3.55 and $3.70 for a gallon of unleaded gasoline this summer — and possibly more if the conflict continues.
Man charged in alleged $72M Ponzi scheme
06/19/2014 9:18amA Fruit Heights man has been accused of defrauding investors across the country of more than $72 million in a Ponzi scheme.
Utah committee supports regulation of e-cigarettes
06/19/2014 9:35amUtah lawmakers are working on drafting a letter to support potential FDA regulation of electronic cigarettes. The Utah committee has until July 9 to submit its support.
Jury convicts 62-year-old man of 14th DUI
06/19/2014 9:51amA jury in Billings deliberated for only 16 minutes before finding a 62-year-old man guilty of his 14th drunken-driving offense.
Ask a Chef: Not your average chili dog
06/19/2014 10:00amThis week Harmons chefs are giving out the best tips on making the perfect chili dog.
Concert, sandcastles and a movie help to kickoff summer this Saturday
06/19/2014 2:03pmKickoff the summer the right way with a concert, sandcastles and food this Saturday, June 21 in the Salt Lake Valley.
The May Reunion writes deeply personal music
06/19/2014 2:05pmThe May Reunion's music is carefully written to lull its listeners into a contemplative state of being, where they can become introspective.
5 close-to-home fishing holes in Utah
06/19/2014 2:29pmFishing is the pastime of many Utahns — and for good reason. There are many great fishing holes throughout the state. If you want one close to home for a quick fishing trip, here are several within 30 minutes of civilization.
Tipsters spot drunk driver in drive-thru, police say
06/19/2014 4:28pmA man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after tipsters at a local Taco Bell called police Wednesday.
UVU acquires additional 125 acres in Vineyard
06/19/2014 5:03pmUtah Valley University announced Wednesday the acquisition of an addition 125 acres within the @Geneva development in Vineyard, bringing its total to 225 acres in the planned mixed-use commercial and residential community.
Martha Stewart comes to Utah
06/19/2014 5:30pmArts and crafts guru Martha Stewart will be in Salt Lake Thursday evening.
Woman's leg impaled by dirt bike handlebar
06/19/2014 6:14pmA woman was taken to the hospital after her leg was impaled by the handlebar of a dirt bike Thursday morning.
Man in serious condition after motorcycle crash
06/19/2014 6:15pmA 35-year-old man was taken by medical helicopter to the hospital after crashing a motorcycle in Sawmill Hollow.
Judge rules against Park City Mountain Resort in legal battle over land
06/19/2014 6:27pmA Summit County judge ruled against Park City Mountain Resort Thursday in one aspect of the court battle it has with Talisker Land Holdings. This major legal battle over land could impact millions of dollars in tourism in for Utah.
New dental breakthrough comes to Utah
06/19/2014 6:34pmDentists now have a revolutionary way to correct gum recession with no cutting or stitches, and virtually no downtime.
Map details top revenue producing companies in each state
06/19/2014 8:21pmIn case you have ever wondered which local business has the largest revenue in your state, an infographic has been created to detail it.
Golf tourney proceeds to benefit suicide prevention in southeast Utah
06/19/2014 9:37pmMoney raised at the 5th Annual Mike Ballard Memorial Golf Tournament on Saturday in Price will be donated to a newly formed coalition that is working to raise awareness about suicide prevention in southeastern Utah.
Police investigating officer who shot dog, community supports owner
06/19/2014 10:07pmThe Salt Lake City Police Department said it's conducting an internal investigation into the actions of one of its officers who shot and killed a dog in Sugar House during a search for a missing toddler Wednesday evening.
Agency confusion leads to delay of information in Kane County crash
06/19/2014 10:16pmConfusion arose after several agencies assisted in a truck accident that injured 14 people in the Short Creek community.
Radio-equipped rattlesnakes provide data on 'a beautiful animal'
06/19/2014 10:23pmFor five years, a science partnership between BYU and the National Park Service has been collecting data on the behavior and travels of rattlesnakes. Researchers say the snakes often get a bad rap and that people ought to appreciate them more.
DA: Decision was 'unanimous' to charge former WVC police officer
06/19/2014 10:28pmFormer West Valley police detective Shaun Cowley was charged Thursday with manslaughter in the shooting death of a woman during a botched undercover drug investigation in 2012.
Colo. man killed in plane accident in San Juan County
06/19/2014 10:42pmA man was killed Thursday afternoon after his plane crashed in the La Sal Mountains in San Juan County.
We're sorry, currently this live video stream is only available inside of Utah or an approved RSL broadcast territory.
We base your location on your IP address. Some providers IP addresses may show your location outside of the state, even though you are physically within the state boundaries. For more information about RSL on KSL, please see our FAQ.


text:
[off topic] message logging severities
I can recall only five levels of severities:
MAJOR: Alarm. Critical unrecoverable error. Results in certain termination of application.
MINOR: Recoverable error. Application can go on, but something is fishy.
NOTICE: Not an error, but shouldn't have happened.
INFO: Run-time information statistics, "anomalies" a.k.a. unsolicited messages. Must produce passable amount of information since might be used for monitoring of real system.
TRACE: Used to trace what's happening in the system: functions called and their arguments. Produces insane amount of output.
DEBUG: Debugging info. Developer's corner.
Production systems run on MINOR level, so that all errors are displayed. MAJOR level normally has abort() built in so that OS would dump core of application for further investigations.
Systems in testing run with INFO level. Often the output is saved and required to match in repeated tests. E.g. if we have fed application with 1000 bytes of info, we would expect INFO message to reflect that 1000 bytes where handled. Not 999, not 1001, not 500 + 500.
Edit1: Added "TRACE" level.


text:
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Nov cover art for Maria titles!
7 comments:
- Robert Reilly said...
excellent work Bill. Please try to put out The Amazing Mr. No Legs and Attack of the Beast Creatures! Even if we can only get a tape sourced double feature. I'd pre-order that in a second.
- August 8, 2011 at 7:45 AM
- criminalmischief said...
Great cover for "Caged Men".
- August 8, 2011 at 9:24 AM
- criminalmischief said...
Just an idea..
To keep costs down on "rough" looking prints that may loose money. Why not:
USE - "Kickstarter".com & have the fans donate to cover printing costs of films like "The Farmer" that may look so bad that worries over printing etc. could be comped.
Seperating the obsessive collector from the complaining troll etc.
Strict LTD. editions paid for by the fans.
No different than buying collector copies, except we'd be paying at least twice but then again I've seen some fools throw some serious cash down on ebay. My foolish self included.
This would not only add to the collectability but it'd be great having a piece of non-convention extreme cinephilia.
The Residents "band" basically paid for an entire tour by doing this, then made money from ticket sales & merch. Though if you donated enough you got to own pieces of their sets etc. But if enough "fans" donate costs wouldn't be that high for "us" & we could even get a numbers system reserving a dvd'r copy for us once their printed.
Just a though guys. Trying to find a happy medium where everybody wins to an extint.
Never gonna be able to please everyone.
Thank you for a truly great year Code Red!!! Seriously, Rituals & Nightmare in the same year!!! Not since the 90's has my life seen such great times collecting!!!
Take care--
Frank Spade
- August 8, 2011 at 9:38 AM
- Anonymous said...
Looks good, will definitely get Caged Men.. any chance of updating the website?
- August 9, 2011 at 1:31 AM
- Anonymous said...
Lame. Like "Maria" has ever heard of these films. You guys are getting desperate and just downright cheap.
- August 28, 2011 at 3:10 AM
- Anonymous said...
I'm going to get you...Elliott Boy DVD.
- September 1, 2011 at 12:43 AM
- Anonymous said...
My wife's grandpa had a small role in I'm going to get you... Elliott boy. We're very excited about this release.
- September 15, 2011 at 5:41 PM


text:
(REUP-GANG PRESENTS) M Watts - Acapella Freestyle [Unsigned Artist]
Directed by Cristopher Schafer
"The Layover EP" dropping February 2013
Follow on Twitter / @mwattsmusic
Follow on Instagram / mwattsmusic
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
Comments will only be displayed by verified emails. No Spamming or Racism.


text:
Difference between revisions of "Slovakia"
Revision as of 11:39, 1 December 2012
Slovakia [1] or Slovak Republic (Slovak: Slovensko or Slovenská republika, both names are officially recognized), is a landlocked country in Central Europe. It is surrounded by Austria to the west, Czech Republic to the northwest, Hungary to the south, Poland to the north and Ukraine to the east. Slovakia is a modern democratic country and is a member of the European Union.
The main reasons to visit Slovakia are its natural beauty, vivid history and great opportunities for relaxation (and due to the small size of the country, it is quite easy to combine all three). For the same reasons Lonely Planet put it in as number 5 on it's Best in Travel 2013 - Top 10 countries list [2], being best for "culture, adventure and off the beaten track".
Slovakia has nine national parks, which cover a relatively big portion of the country and feature the tallest part of the Carpathian Mountain Range, the High Tatras, which offer great opportunities for mountain and winter sports as well as great vistas. Geologically, a sizable part of Slovakia is made out of limestone, which in combination with many springs and rivers has resulted in formation of numerous caves (12 open to the public, several of which are UNESCO listed) and the beautiful rocky formations, canyons and waterfalls of the Slovak Paradise and Slovak Karst. Even outside these areas, there are some beautiful landscapes, and all of Slovakia is covered by thousands of well-marked hiking trails.
For history lovers, Slovakia has the highest number of castles and chateaux per capita in the world, ranging from simple ruins to well-preserved habitable castles with furnishings, so if you are a fan of medieval history, look no further. There are also numerous gothic and baroque cities and towns across Slovakia, including the capital. There are also well-preserved examples of wooden folk architecture, including churches made entirely out of wood and the tallest wooden altar in the world.
There are numerous mineral and thermal springs in Slovakia, and around some of these world-famous spas have been built that offer great curative therapies or just simple relaxation. You can also chill out, swim and sunbathe at the shores of several local lakes and pools or try AquaCity waterpark if you are feeling more adventurous. In particular, Bratislava boasts a lively nightlife as well and is a popular partying destination.
Much of the central and northern part of Slovakia is rugged and mountainous. Gerlachovský štít at 2,655 m (8,711 ft) in the High Tatras is the highest peak. The Tatra Mountains in the north, shared with Poland, are interspersed with many scenic lakes and valleys. These areas experience lower temperatures and traditionally people here lived off sheep grazing.
The lowlands are in the south with the lowest point of the Bodrog River being 94 m (308 ft) above sea level. The soil here is much more fertile, especially the area between Small Danube and Danube, and was more agricultural. The weather is gentler and especially summers can get surprisingly warm.
The area that is present-day Slovakia has been settled since early Paleolithic era. Before the inward migration of Slavs and Huns, the most important cultures were the Celts and Romans. To this day, artefacts and evidence of the presence of these cultures can be found.
The Slavic tribes, that invaded the area in the 5th century created a succession of influential kingdoms here. During this era, lasting until the 10th century when the Great Moravian Empire disintegrated, Slavs adopted Christianity and many medieval fort castles have been built, ruins of some of which remain to this day.
Since 10th century, Slovakia became a part of the Kingdom of Hungary, which, after 1867, formed an union with the Austrian Empire and became the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. This Union, lasting until 1918 was a great influence on the shaping of the entire region and was a multinational state with many cultures living together, and forms a common cultural history shared by many Central European nations.
In 1918 the Slovaks joined the closely related Czechs to form Czechoslovakia. During WWII, Czechoslovakia briefly split, with the Czech Republic being Occupied by the Nazis and Slovaks forming their own war state. Following the chaos of World War II, Czechoslovakia became a communist country within Soviet-ruled Eastern Block. Soviet influence collapsed in 1989 and Czechoslovakia once again became free.
For many years overshadowed by their north-western Czech neighbors, political representatives of Czechs and Slovaks decided to strike out on their own. The Slovaks and the Czechs agreed to separate peacefully on 1 January 1993 and Slovakia became a country in its own right. This is known as Velvet Divorce. Both countries remain close culturally and there is a high level of political and economical cooperation.
Historic, political, and geographic factors have caused Slovakia to experience more difficulty in developing a modern market economy than some of its Central European neighbors, but now it boasts one of the fastest growing economies in Europe and has been a member of the European Union and the NATO since 2004. Slovakia is now a member of the Schengen agreement, and the country has adopted the Euro on 1 January 2009.
There are some similarities between the Czech and Slovak cultures but the two nationalities remain distinct. One of the most striking differences is that while Czechs are largely atheists, Slovaks are largely Catholics, like their Polish neighbours.
Slovakia was a part of the Hungarian empire for almost a millennium, and a strong Hungarian-speaking minority of 9.7% remains, concentrated mostly in southern Slovakia. Historic German populations were uprooted and expelled after WWII but their historical influence remains.
In the eastern part of the country, there are many Romas/Gypsies and some Rusnacs/Rusins and Ukrainians. There are also some Czechs, Poles and still some Germans living in Slovakia.
Slovakia has a temperate climate with sunny hot summers and cold, cloudy, humid and snowy winters. The climate is continental, with four seasons, and while the overall climate is mild, there is a considerable temperature difference between summer and winter months.
It is generally warmer in southern regions and the lowlands, where summer temperatures can climb above 30°C (86°F) on hotter days, and where rain is more common in winters than snow, which usually melts in a few days.
Northern, and especially mountainous regions have a colder climate, with summer temperatures not exceeding 25°C (77°F). Especially in the mountains, snow is common in winters and it can get quite cold.
If you are planning on visiting the mountains, please note that, as in any mountainous region, the weather can change dramatically in a matter of minutes and it can rain (or snow!) even in summer. Take appropriate equipment and don't underestimate the weather.
Holidays and Festivals
Slovakia is a predominantly Catholic Country, so major Christian holidays are observed, as well as some other holidays. Unless indicated otherwise, these days are public holidays and banks and most amenities and shops will be closed:
Religious people will go to mass, and it might be the only time when its likely to see people in traditional clothing in some villages, but this is increasingly less common. Everyone will be dressed up, though.
Throughout Slovakia, kraslice are prepared, which are egg shells adorned with ornaments and painted over with colours. These, along with sweets and money are given to boys, who visit friends' and neighbours' houses, where it is their job to make sure the women will be healthy and prosperous the following year by spraying them with water or perfume and beating them with a willow wand adorned with ribbons. It is called oblievacka and sibacka. It tends to involve copious amounts of alcohol, food and wet T-shirts, and is not taken seriously by anyone. In recent years it became less popular. If you are female, do not wear clothes you like when venturing outside on Easter Monday as you might have water thrown or perfume sprayed at you. If you want to protest this clearly barbaric tradition, make sure to do so in waterproof clothing.
Other destinations
Get in
Slovakia is a member of the Schengen Agreement.
There are no border controls between countries that have signed and implemented this treaty - the European Union (except Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania and the United Kingdom), Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Likewise, a visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty. But be careful: not all EU members have signed the Schengen treaty, and not all Schengen members are part of the European Union. This means that there may be spot customs checks but no immigration checks (travelling within Schengen but to/from a non-EU country) or you may have to clear immigration but not customs (travelling within the EU but to/from a non-Schengen country).
Please see the article Travel in the Schengen Zone for more information about how the scheme works and what entry requirements are.
Recognised refugees in possession of a valid travel document issued by the government of any one of the above countries/territories are exempt from obtaining a visa for Slovakia (but no other Schengen country, except Germany and Hungary) for a maximum stay of 90 days in a 180 day period.
Slovakia became a part of Schengen area only relatively recently, and local cross-border transport services might be limited in certain areas, though this is improving, and in some places it is very easy to cross over. You should have ID with you anyway, but to avoid hassle, make sure to keep an ID on you in border regions.
If you need a visa, always apply at an embassy beforehand. There are zero chances you will get a visa at a Slovak border, no matter how you enter or what your nationality is.
By train
From The Czech Republic
As parts of former Czechoslovakia, the trains between the Czech Republic and Slovakia are frequent. EC trains operate every two hours from Prague to Bratislava and Žilina. There is one daily train from Prague to Banská Bystrica, Zvolen, Poprad and Košice. All these cities have a direct overnight sleeper car connection from Prague.
Cheap tickets SporoTiket Evropa can be bought at the Czech Railways e-shop [12], at least 3 days in advance. The price begins at €15 for seat or €26 for couchette. Please note that such e-ticket is valid only on the one specified train!
If you want greater flexibility or cannot buy in advance over the Internet, you can get a significant discount at a railway station if you buy a return ticket called CityStar. Such international return ticket is valid for one month on any train (and cannot be bought over the Internet at all).
From Germany
There are three daytime and one overnight train from Berlin to Bratislava. Cheap tickets can be bought at German Railways e-shop [13], when bought at least 3 days in advance. The price begins at €29.
From Austria
Hourly regional expresses operate from Vienna to Bratislava. You can use EURegio ticket for €14 – a return ticket valid 4 days.
From Poland
There is an overnight through car from Warszawa to Bratislava via Czech territory. Direct train connection from Poland is very poor, a bus is generally a better alternative. There are only few local trains going just over the border line – one train Zwardoń (PL)–Skalité (SK). There's no international passenger traffic at Nowy Sącz–Prešov (since Dec 2010) and Lupków-Medzilaborce line (since Dec 2009).
If you really want to travel from Poland by train, prepare for a full-day trip with a lot of train changes. It's cheaper to buy Polish ticket only to border point (Skalité Gr.) and then buy a Slovak domestic ticket at conductor (€1.30 surcharge).
From Hungary
There are EC trains from Budapest to Bratislava running every two hours and two IC trains a day from Budapest and Miskolc to Košice. Unlike trip from Poland, it wouldn't be cheaper to buy the Slovak section at conductor. Instead, there is a bilateral return discount of 60% (i.e. a return ticket is cheaper that a one-way ticket).
From Ukraine and Russia
There is a daily direct sleeper car from Moscow, Kiev and Lvov to Košice, Poprad and Bratislava. The journey is very long – 2 nights from Moscow and Kiev and 1 day and night from Lvov – because of poor rail state in western Ukraine, lengthy customs process at UA/SK border and bogie changing (Ukraine has different gauge than Europe).
It is much more cheaper to buy Ukrainian or Russian ticket only to the Ukrainian border station Chop, then buy a ticket from Chop to the first Slovak station Čierna nad Tisou, and then buy a Slovak domestic ticket at conductor (€1.30 surcharge). But then you have no berth reservation for the Slovak section and you have to change to seat car in Chop.
Another option is to buy CityStar ticket in Russia (or Slovakia were its prices are cheaper) which can be however is valid only for group up to 5 members. CityStar ticket than servers as one-month valid two-way ticket between the stations and is offered with a discount for each next passenger on the ticket. Of course you have to buy berth ticket additionally as well.
By bus
Among many others, there are regular services from Vienna, Prague and Budapest to Bratislava; and from Uzhhorod, Ukraine to the eastern Slovak town of Michalovce and from Krakow, Poland through Zakopane, Poland to Poprad.
Taking a bus from Prague to Bratislava is slower but cheaper than train if you buy a ticket in advance, e.g. at Student Agency, Slovak Lines, or using the common bus reservation system AMSBus.
Buses from Poland and Ukraine are the best option, they are faster and more frequent than trains.
From Budapest the travel is 4 hours, the bus stop for 5 minutes at Györ and in a small restaurant in the road.
By foot
By plane
Bratislava has its own airport. Danube Wings are the only full service airline flying into Bratislava, being the Slovakian flag carrier. They offer flights to Kosice, Rijeka, Split, Venice and Zadar.
However, the budget airline Ryanair operate flights to Bratislava from various European cities, inluding London, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Dublin, Rome (Ciampino), Paris (Beauvais) and Brussels (Charleroi), and a few others. These flights can be quite cheap, so if you are arriving from outside Europe, you might end up saving a lot of money by flying to a bigger airport and then connecting to Bratislava. However these flights do not operate daily, so you may be better flying into Vienna. [Norwegian Airlines] operate flights from Copenhagen and Oslo, and there are also flights to Moscow and Tel Aviv with UTAir and Sun d'or Airlines respectively.
The alternative is Vienna Airport, which is just 35 km (22 mi) from Bratislava. It provides a more convenient way of arriving to Slovakia by the major airlines, but can be more expensive. It also operates a much greater number of long-haul flights. Buses leave for Bratislava hourly, going from Vienna Airport straight to the main bus station in Bratislava. Alternatively, you can take the airport shuttle, or a taxi which will cost around €70.
Other options include airports in Prague and Budapest, with both cities about 4 hours away by public transport. There are also direct flights operated between Prague and Bratislava and Prague and Kosice, the latter in conjunction with flights to Prague providing the most convenient access by plane to the Eastern part of the country.
Poprad - Tatry Airport [14] is also connected with Bratislava, Bologna and Basel thanks to scheduled routes operated by Danube Wings.
You can also fly to Krakow if you want to go to the Tatra Mountains. Buses from Krakow run to several Slovak towns around the Tatra mountains and Orava.
Get around
CP offers an exceptionally useful website with integrated timetables for all trains and buses in Slovakia, including all intra-city and inter-city transports. Anywhere you want to go in Slovakia, this should be your first point of reference, as it lists every single bus and train in Slovakia. It is also useful for international travel from/to Slovakia.
By train
Train is by far the best option to travel across Slovakia, provided you don't have a private vehicle. Frequent fast trains connect all important cities, but there are less local trains, even at main lines. For local transport a bus is generally a better alternative. Trains are fairly priced, with the prices competitive with buses, and cheap by western standards. They are reliable and clean.
Opt for an InterCity service if you want Western-style comfort; IC trains link Bratislava, Žilina, The High Tatras and Košice and have compulsory reservations. These can save you from the crowds: ordinary trains do get crowded, usually on Fridays and Sundays or around holidays. Watch out for pickpockets at major stations and steer clear of money scams. Also, sporadic robberies occur to sleeping passengers travelling the overnight longliners.
Domestic tickets can be bought over Internet at SlovakRail. Tickets bought over Internet are only valid in specified trains. Tickets bought at stations are valid for any one journey on the given route within a specified time period (usually one or two days, depending on the distance), and thus very flexible. International tickets, as of 2011, can only be bought at stations.
By bus
Bus connections are usually slower than trains, but can get you where trains cannot, and some private companies also offer discounts for travellers with a foreign ISIC card (state-run companies do not, unless you're a Slovak citizen). Tickets for long-haul routes- 100km+ (including to/from the Czech Republic or within the Czech Republic) can be bought from AMSBus after compulsory registration (English version is also available). The travel from Bratislava to Nitra is a rare example of a route where buses are significantly faster and cheaper than trains.
Buses are punctual, and it is therefore advisable to arrive at the bus station in advance, the time specified in the timetable is the time it leaves the station. Most tickets are bought directly from the driver, so you will probably need cash. Though the bus driver will give you change, especially for shorter (cheaper) journeys, it is advisable to have some smaller denominations.
Turancar and Student Agency are good examples of private bus companies which are pretty reliable, comfortable (as they use new buses often with on-board entertainment LCD screens), running on time and offering student discounts for foreigners with ISIC.
By car
The road network is extensive and in an overall good condition. Most major roads (especially in the Western parts) are two lane and in good repair, however the majority of the minor roads are one lane, and maintenance standard of this can vary from good to rather bumpy. Vehicles drive on the right side of the road and the speed limits are in general 50 kmh (31 mph) in a village/town, 90 kmh (56 mph) outside build-up areas and 130 kmh (81 mph) on motorways. However trucks and cars with caravans/trailers are limited to 80km/h (50 mph) outside build-up areas or on motorways and motorcycles are limited to 90km/h (56 mph) on motorways.
Wearing seatbelts in cars and vans is compulsory and children aged 11 or younger or lower than 150cm must be placed on the rear seat.
Headlights must be switched on when driving at all times, regardless of weather conditions or whether it is a night or day, so switch them on.
In winter, snow and ice is common on the roads, and winter tires are recommended. In extreme weather some minor mountain roads might require snow chains.
Slovakia has a zero tolerance policy towards alcohol. Do NOT drink and drive. If nothing else, then because the penalties are severe.
Wearing helmets is compulsory for both driver and passenger on motorcycles of any size, and goggles must also be worn by the driver of motorcycles with engines larger than 50cc.
Police presence is frequent on the roads, and especially the major roads, in both marked and unmarked vehicles.
If you intend to drive on the motorways please note that vehicles must show a mandatory sticker (vignette) covering road toll, in the upper right corner on the car's windshield (mandatory location as this is mostly checked by fixed electronic camera system). The vignette can be purchased from most petrol stations and is valid for a week (€7), for a month (€14) or longer. Please note that that the vignette is compulsory on all motorways from the point of entry, and if you are caught without one you will be subject to a fine. If you are renting a car, it most likely is included in the rental, but remember to check or inquire when renting/booking.
The driving style in Slovakia is, especially compared to countries in Western Europe, more aggressive and of lower standard. One should be aware of other cars speeding, which is quite frequent, and overtaking on your side of the road, especially in the more mountainous areas of the country.
If you understand Slovak, many private radio stations include a great traffic coverage as a part of their news, which will inform you about any obstructions on the road, car accidents, traffic jams and even police presence so it is certainly worth tuning in.
Renting a car is a convenient, efficient and relatively cheap (prices starts a approx. 65€/day at car rental chains) way to explore Slovakia, especially if you intend to visit more remote areas, where train and bus services may be more sporadic.
Hitchhiking in Slovakia is best done by asking around at gas stations. It used to be that most people only speak Slovak (and possibly understand other Slavic languages) so it was difficult for foreigners who don't speak Slavic languages. However, nowadays most of the young people speak English and almost as many speak German.
Keep in mind that trains and buses in Slovakia are cheap for Westerners, and (apart from extremely rural areas where people are generally less wary of hitchhikers) it might take a while for someone to pick you up. You can find some offers if you travel from Slovakia and into Slovakia as well on specialized web pages. The biggest hitchhikers page in Slovakia is stopar.sk [15]. There you can find offers in English, German, French, Polish, Czech and Hungarian language and it is free.
On foot
There is a long tradition of hiking and mountain walking in Slovakia, and it is an extremely popular sport. Most people you meet will have gone on a hike at least once in their life, and many do so regularly, and can give you advice about the most interesting local trails. The trail network is also very well maintained. The quality and efficiency of the sign-posting system is unique in European (and probably World) context.
Every route is marked and signposted, different trails being given a different colour. There are four colours used - red, blue, green and yellow. Longest and most sternous trails are usually marked red, and it is possible to traverse from north-eastern Dukla Pass all the way to the west (Bradlo, near Bratislava) along the Slovak National Uprising Heroes trail (750km) along one such red-marked path. However, the trails are numerous, suitable for various levels of fitness, and many lead through beautiful scenery.In towns, you will usually see a signpost, with arrows pointing in different directions, marking the colour of the path and the average walking times to the nearest set of destinations. All you need to do is to follow the colour, there will be a mark every hundred metres or so, and consists of a 10-cm-by-10-cm square three-section mark where the edges are white and the chosen path's colour in the middle.
It is also possible (and highly recommended) to purchase 'tourist maps' of smaller slovak regions. These are based on sets of former military maps, have a very good resolution (1:50000) and can be purchased from most kiosks, information centres and bookstores for bargain price of between €1.50-2.50. These are published by the Slovak Tourist Club (KST), which maintains all the trails, and show all the marked trails in the area, including the average walking times, which makes route planning very easy and efficient.
The official and most widely-spoken language is Slovak. Slovaks are very proud of their language, and thus, even in Bratislava you will not find many signs written in English (outside of the main tourist areas). Also, most older people except some in Bratislava are unable to converse in English, but most of them knows Russian; most young people speak at least some English, as it has been taught in most schools since 1990. Czech and Slovak are mutually intelligible, yet distinctive languages (at first, one might think they are dialects of each other).
Slovak is written using the same Roman characters that English uses (with some added accents or diacritics), so Western travellers won't have any trouble reading signs and maps. While some words are tongue twisters, the knowledge of the alphabet including the letters with diacritics will go a long way as Slovaks pronounce every letter of a word with accent always on the first syllable (but it may be on second syllable in some dialects in east).
Since the territory of Slovakia was under Hungarian influence for centuries, there is a significant Hungarian-speaking minority of 9.7%. Most of the Hungarians live in southern regions of the country and some of them speak no Slovak. Other Slovaks however normally do not speak or understand the Hungarian language.
While you can make do with English and German in Bratislava, in smaller towns and villages your only chance is trying to approach younger people that speak some English. Older residents may know some German. People born between 1935 and 1980 will have learned Russian in school, though few Slovaks will appreciate being spoken to in Russian as this language has some negative connotations due to the Communist era. Due to the significant tourism growth in the North and the East of Slovakia, English is becoming more widely used and you may try Polish. Other Slavic languages, especially Russian, Serbian, Croatian, and Slovene may also work. In the east Rusyn, a Ukrainian dialect close to Polish is spoken. It is also intelligible with Russian to some extent. Attempts to speak Slovak will be very appreciated.
If you speak the international language Esperanto, you can take advantage of the network of Esperanto delegates scattered across Slovakia.
Slovakia has the euro (€) as its sole currency along with 24 other countries that use this common European money. These 24 countries are: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain (official euro members which are all European Union member states) as well as Andorra, Kosovo, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino and the Vatican which use it without having a say in eurozone affairs and without being European Union members. Together, these countries have a population of more than 330 million.
One euro is divided into 100 cents. While each official euro member (as well as Monaco, San Marino and Vatican) issues its own coins with a unique obverse, the reverse, as well as all bank notes, look the same throughout the eurozone. Every coin is legal tender in any of the eurozone countries.
Automatic teller machines (ATM, "bankomat" in Slovak, pl. "bankomaty") are widely available in Slovakia except in smaller villages, and obtaining money there should not present a problem. In most of small villages you can gain money at local postal offices (cashback). Credit cards and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, Visa Electron, Cirrus Maestro are widely accepted both in shops and restaurants in bigger cities.
Slovak cuisine focuses mostly on simple and hearty recipes. Historically, what is now considered genuinely Slovak has been the traditional food in the northern villages where people lived off sheep grazing and limited agriculture - in the harsh conditions many crops don't grow, and herbs are more accessible than true spices. Therefore, the staple foods mostly involve (smoked) meat, cheese, potatoes and flour. This does not make the food bland, however, and much of it is quite filling and flavoursome, though can be a bit heavy. As no strong spices or truly exotic ingredients are used, sampling local wares is a safe and rewarding experience.
Some dishes are authentically Slovak, many others are variations on a regional theme. A lot of cheese is typically consumed, out of meats pork and poultry products are the most common, with some beef and game dishes, most common accompaniments being potatoes and various types of dumplings. Since Slovakia is a land-locked country, fish and sea-food options are limited (carp is served at Christmas, trout is the most common fish). Soups are quite common both as an appetiser and, as some are quite filling, as a main dish.
If you are a vegetarian, the variety of food in the cities should be decent. However, when venturing out into the countryside, the offer may be limited as vegetables are mostly considered a side and/or eaten mostly raw or in salads. Also, be aware that even though some dishes will be in the vegetarian section of the menu, this merely means that they're not predominanty meat-based and still might be prepared using animal fats or even contain small pieces of meat, so make your requirements clear. Fried cheese with ham or Cesar salad(!) are good examples. Still, almost every restaurant in the country will serve at least the staple choice of fried cheese (the normal, non-ham variety) with fries, which is a universally popular. There should be a good selection of sweet dishes as well, with pancakes, dumplings filled with fruits, jams or chocolate and sweet noodles with nuts/poppy seeds/sweet cottage cheese most common. Seeking out the nearest pizzeria is also a good and accessible option mostly everywhere.
The main meal of the day is traditionally lunch, though this is changing especially in cities due to work schedules, and dinner is increasing becoming the main meal there.
In establishments where you sit in (cafes and restaurants), it is common to tip around 10% or at least round the amount up to the nearest euro or note (depending on amount). Tips are not included in the bill, if there is a percentage shown on your bill, this is usually the VAT. Tip is added to the bill and should be handed to the waiter while you pay, before you leave the table. Tipping is not compulsory, so if you are not satisfied with the service, don't feel obliged to tip! You will not be hassled if you don't. Tipping is not common in over-the-counter establishments, bars or for other services.
It should be noted that in all but the most exclusive restaurants it is not customary to be shown to your table by the staff. So when you enter, do not hang out by the door, but simply pick a table of your choice and enjoy. Once you are comfortably seated, waiting staff will be over shortly to give you the menu and let you order drinks.
Again with the possible exception of the most exclusive establishments, there is mostly no dress code enforced in restaurants and informal clothing is fine. Hauling yourself into a restaurant for well-deserved meal after a day of hiking/skiing in your sporty clothes might attract a few frowns, but you certainly won't be turned away. Generally, anything you would wear for a stroll in town is perfectly fine. You don't need a jacket or closed shoes and in summer shorts are also acceptable.
Slovak food
Bryndzové halušky is a Slovak national dish made out of potato dumplings and special kind of unpasteurized fermented sheep cheese called 'bryndza'. This meal is unique to Slovakia and quite appetising (and surprisingly filling), and you should not leave Slovakia without trying it. Please note that while this dish will usually be listed in the vegetarian section of the menu, it is served with pieces of fried meaty bacon on top, so if you are a vegetarian make sure to ask for halušky without the bacon. Halušky can be found in many restaurants, however, the quality varies as it is not an easy dish to prepare. If you at all can, seek out an ethnic Slovak restaurant (this can be harder than it sounds), or at least ask locals for the best place in the vicinity. In the northern regions you will find also authentic restaurants called 'Salaš' (this word means sheep farm in Slovak and many take produce directly from these), which serve the most delicious and fresh variety. Sometimes, a variety with smoked cheese added on the top is available. A separate dish called strapačky might also be available where sauerkraut is served instead of bryndza, but it is not as typical (this will also come with bacon on top).
A salaš will usually serve also other typical Slovak dishes, and many will offer several varieties of sheep cheese to buy as well. They are all locally produced, delivious, and well worth buying if you are a cheese fan. Verieties include bryndza (primarily used to make 'Bryndzové halušky', but it is a soft spreadable cheese which is very healthy and often used as a spread), blocks of sheep cheese (soft and malleable, delicious on its own or with salt), parenica (cheese curled in layers into a small peelable roll, sold smoked or unsmoked) and korbáčiky (this word means hair braids in Slovak, and korbáčiky are threads of cheese woven into a pattern resembling a basic braid). Some of these cheeses are available to buy in supermarkets as well but these are mass produced and not as good.
Most other dishes are regional, and their varieties can be found elsewhere in Central Europe. These include kapustnica, a sauerkraut soup typically eaten at Christmas but served all year round in restaurants. It is flavoursome and can be mildly spicy based on what sausage is used. Depending on the recipe it may also include smoked meat an/or dried mushrooms.
Various large dumplings called pirohy can be found and depending on the filling can be salty or sweet. Fillings include sauerkraut, various types of cheese or meat or simply fruits or jam. They closely resemble Polish pirogi.
Goulash is a regional dish made with cuts of beef, onions, vegetables and squashed potatoes with spices, which is very hearty and filling. Depending on the thickness it can be served as a soup (with bread) or as a stew (served with dumplings). Goulash can be sometimes found outdoors during BBQs or at festival markets, where it is prepared in a big cauldron, sometimes with game instead of beef - this is the most authentic. A variety called Segedin goulash also exists, which is quite distinct and prepared with sauerkraut. Goulash can be quite spicy.
Apart from kapustnica and goulash, which are more of a main dish, other soups are quite popular as an appetiser. Mushroom soup is a typical Christmas dish in many parts, and there are several soups made out of beans or bean sprouts. In restaurants, the most common soups are normal chicken and (sometimes) beef broth, and tomato soup and garlic broth (served with croutons, very tasty, but don't go kissing people after) are also very common. Some restaurants offer certain soups to be served in a small loaf of bread ('v bochniku'), which can be an interesting and tasty experience.
Other typical streetfood includes lokše, potato pancakes served with various fillings (popular varieties include duck fat and/or duck liver pate, poppy seeds or jam) and langoš, which is a big deep fried flat bread most commonly served with garlic, cheese and ketchup/sour cream on top. A local version of a burger is also common, called cigánska pečienka (or simply cigánska). This is not made out of beef, however, but instead pork or chicken is used and is served in a bun with mustard/ketchup and (sometimes) onions, chilies and/or diced cabbage. If you are looking for something sweet, in spa cities such as Piešťany, you will find stands selling spa wafers, which are usually two plate-sized thin wafers with various fillings. Try chocolate or hazelnut.
Especially in the western parts, lokše can be found in a restaurant as well, where they are served as side for a roasted goose/duck (husacina), which is a local delicacy.
Other foods worth trying are chicken in paprika sauce with dumplings ('paprikas'), Schnitzel ('Rezeň' in Slovak, very common dish. 'Čiernohorsky rezeň' is a variety that is made with potato dumpling coating used instead of batter and is very good) and Svieckova (sirloin beef with special vegetable sauce, served with dumplings). From the desert section of the menu, try plum dumplings (sometimes other fruit is used, but plums are traditional); this is a good and quite filling dish on its own as well.
In some parts of the countryside, there is a tradition called zabíjačka, where a pig is killled and its various meat and parts are consumed in a BBQ-like event. This is a lot more historic celebration than you are likely to find in mostly modern Slovakia, but if you have an opportunity to attend, it may be an interesting experience, and the meat and sausages are home-made, delicious and full of flavour. If you can find home-made hurka (pork meat and liver sausage with rice) or krvavnicky (similar to hurka, but with pork blood) on offer elsewhere, they are both very good. There is also tlačenka (cold meat pressed together with some vegetables, served similar to ham), which is served cold with vinegar and onion on top, and can be bought in supermarkets as well.Various other type of sausages and smoked meats are available commercially.
A thick fried slice of cheese served with French fries and a salad is also a common Slovak dish[20]. It is served in most restaurants, and worth trying out, especially the local variety made from smoked cheese ('udeny syr'/'ostiepok') or 'hermelin' (local cheese similar to Camembert). This is not considered a substitute for meat.
There is a good variety of bakery products, including various sweet pastries- try the local fillings of poppy seeds and/or (sweet) cottage cheese (tvaroh). Strudel (štrúdla) is also popular, try the traditional apple and raisins filling or fancier sweet poppy seeds and sour cherries version. For something savoury, try pagáč, which is a puff pastry with little pork cracklings. Local bread is excellent, but please note that some of the several varieties are sprinkled with caraway seeds. You may or may not like this! Baguettes and baguette shops/stands are very common and you will be able to choose from a variety of fillings.
For dessert, visit the local cukráreň. These establishments, though slowly merging into cafes, exclusively specialise in appeasing your sweet tooth and serve a variety of cakes, as well as hot and cold drinks and (sometimes) ice-cream. The cakes resemble similar fare in the Czech Republic or their Viennese cousins. The selection is diverse and on display, so just pick one you like the look of, perhaps a 'krémeš' (a bit of pastry at the bottom, thick filling of vanilla custard, topped with a layer of cream or just chocolate) or 'veterník' (think huge profiterole coated in caramel), selection of tortas etc.
When you are shopping in the supermarket, remember to pick up Tatranky and/or Horalky, two brands of similar wafers with hazelnut filling and lightly coated in chocolate that the locals swear by.
For more information visit[21]Slovensko.
International Cuisine
Italian restaurants and pizzerias are extremely popular in Slovakia, and have become ubiquitous. Even if you don't go to an ethnic Italian restaurant, there will be a pizza or pasta dish on almost every restaurant menu. Italian (and generally Mediterranean)ice cream is also very popular.
Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine is also becoming more common everywhere, and kebab/gyros (a bun with sliced bits of meat) stands are very common.
In bigger cities, you will find selection of ethnic restaurants including Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Italian, French and many others. Moreover, as mentioned above, many Austrian, Czech, Hungarian and Polish dishes with Slovakian twist are commonplace.
Fast food establishments can be found in Slovakia as anywhere else in the world, McDonalds and Burger King can be found in many bigger and smaller cities. However, due to the other food being relatively cheap in comparison to the Western prices in fast foods, this is not usually considered the truly budget option. A food in a cheaper restaurant will cost 1-1.5x the price of a meal combo and might prove a better value. Still, these establishments are reasonably popular, especially with the younger generation.
Non-alcoholic drinks
For non-alcoholic drinks try Vinea, a soft drink made from grapes, in both red and white and also non-carbonated. Kofola, a Coke-type soft drink, is also very popular among locals and is available both on tap and bottled. Slovakia is one of three countries in the world where Coca-cola is not the number one in the market.
Mineral waters are some of the best in the World, come in numerous varieties and each has unique positive health effects (e.g. getting rid of heartburn, improving digestion etc) depending on the type of minerals naturally found in the water. There are many types available from shops and supermarkets, for example Budiš, Mitická, Slatina, Rajec, Dobrá Voda, Zlatá studňa, Mattoni etc. Others are only available directly from the many natural mineral springs common all across the country. As these are true 'mineral' waters, they will invariably contain minerals, and the taste will differ according to the brand/spring. If you don't like one, try a different brand! You may also try mineral waters with various flavourings, ranging from raspberry to 'mojito'.
In contrast to what you might be used to, sparking water is the default option, so if you prefer still you might have to look for this specifically. The level of carbonation is marked by the label. Dark blue or Red label usually indicates carbonated ones ("perlivá"), a green label indicates mildly carbonated ones ("mierne perlivá") and white, pink or baby blue indicates those without carbon dioxide ("neperlivá"). Due to the excellent local choice and quality of the water, international brands are not as common.
In restaurants, serving of a free glass of water is not a part of the culture, so remember that if you ask for one it is quite likely that you will be brought (most likely sparkling) mineral water instead (and charged for it).
Out of hot drinks coffee is available everywhere, mostly in three varieties (cafes in cities will offer more) - espresso, 'normal' coffee which is served medium-sized, small and black and Viennese coffee which is 'normal' coffee with a dollop of cream on top. Cappuccinos are quite common as well. Coffee is served with sugar and cream/milk on the side. Hot chocolate is popular as well. Tea rooms are quite popular as a place to chill out in major cities. These usually have a laid-back, vaguely oriental ambiance, and offer a great variety of black, green, white and fruit teas. Schisha might be on offer as well. A part of this culture spread to the other catering establishments, most of which will now offer a choice at least between fruit and black tea. Note that black tea is served with sugar and lemon in Slovakia, serving of milk or cream is not common. Some places may offer a beverage called 'hot apple', which tastes a bit like softer hot apple juice.
Alcoholic Beverages
Drinking is very much a part of the Slovak culture and some form of alcohol will be served at most social occasions. However, the locals mostly hold their liquor well and BEING visibly drunk is frowned upon, so be aware of your limits. Note that some locally brewed spirits may be stronger than what you are used to, and that the standard shot glass in Slovakia is 50ml, which may be more than you are used to if arriving from Western Europe. If you order double vodka, you will get 1dl of it! Alcohol in general is cheap compared to Western Europe or the US. There are no special shops, and alcoholic beverages can be purchased in practically any local supermarket or food store. You can legally drink and purchase alcohol if you are 18 years or older, but this is not very strictly enforced. You still might be IDed in some city clubs if you look very young, however.
For beers, there are a great variety of excellent local brews that are similar in style and quality to Czech beers (which are also widely available), and beer is mostly the local drink of choice. Try out the Zlatý Bažant, Smädný Mních, Topvar and Šariš. Šariš is also available in a dark version that is thicker and heavier on your stomach. If the local tastes do not satisfy, "Western" beers are sold in the bigger restaurants and pubs.
Slovakia has also some great local wines, many similar to Germanic Riesling styles. There is a number of wine-growing regions in the south with centuries worth of tradition, including the area just outside Bratislava. If you can, try to visit one of the local producer's wine cellars, as many are historical and it is a cultural experience as of itself. You might also be offered home-made wine if you are visiting these areas, as many locals ferment their own wines. The quality obviously varies. Every year at the end of May and beginning of November, an event called Small Carpathian Wine Road[22] takes place in Small Carpathian Wine Region (between Bratislava and Trnava), where all the local producers open their cellars to the public. Buy a ticket in the nearest cellar and you will receive a wine glass and admission into any cellar in the region, where you can sample the best produce from the previous year.
There are also sweeter wines grown in South-Eastern border regions called Tokaj. Tokaj is fermented out of the special Tokaj grape variety endemic to the region (part of which is in Hungary and part in Slovakia) and it is a sweet dessert wine. Tokaj is considered a premium brand with a world-wide reputation and is arguably some of the best Central Europe has to offer. Other Slovak wines might not be widely known outside the region but they are certainly worth a try. The best recent wine years in Slovakia were 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2006. Around the harvest time in the autumn, in the wine-producing regions, young wine called burčiak is often sold and popular among the locals. As burčiak strenghtens with fermentation (as it becomes actual wine), its alcohol content can vary quite wildly.
Slovakia produces good spirits. Excellent is the plum brandy (Slivovica), pear brandy (Hruškovica) or herb liquor Demänovka. But the most popular alcohol is Borovička, a type of gin. Fernet, a type of aromatic bitter spirit is also very popular. In some shops you may try a 25 or 50 ml shot for very little money, so as to avoid buying a big bottle of something of unknown flavour, then decide whether to buy or not to buy. International brands are also available, but at a price premium (still cheaper than in most Western countries, however).
If you are a more adventurous type, you can try some home-made fruit brandys that the locals sometimes offer to foreigners. Slivovica is the most common, but also pear brandy, apricot brandy, or raspberry brandy can be found. Drinking is a part of the tradition, especially in the countryside. If you are visiting locals, don't be surprised if you are offered home-made spirit as a welcome drink nor that the host may be quite proud of this private stock. The home-made liquors are very strong (up to 60% alcohol), so be careful. If Slivovica is matured for 12 or more years, it can become a pleasant digestive drink.
In winter months, mulled wine is available at all winter markets and mulled mead is also common. A mixed hot drink called grog, which consists of black tea and a shot of local 'rum' is very popular, especially in the skiing resorts, and really warms you up.
Cultural Events
Music Events
Slovakia offers many excellent spas and water parks. If you enjoy stinking mud and are willing to pay for it, the best, most famous (and most expensive) spa is located in Piešťany. Important spas are also in Trenčianske Teplice, Rajecké Teplice, Bardejov, Dudince and Podhájska.
If it's too boring for you and you'd welcome some water slides and fun, try water parks in Bešeňová, Liptovský Mikuláš, Poprad, Turčianske Teplice, Oravice, Senec. Significantly cheaper are classical open-air pools, some of the best are in Veľký Meder and Štúrovo.
There is a wide rangeof accommodation available in Slovakia. These range from [31] AquaCity, based in Poprad, through to budget priced rooms [32] in rental chalets.
The most luxurious hotels can mostly be found in major cities such as Bratislava and Košice and in the major tourist destinations like the High Tatras or the spa towns (the situation here is unique as the price of the hotel usually includes some of the spa procedures). These hotels offer Western style comfort and prices.
There will at least one hotel available in every major town or tourist area, but the quality varies. Some of the mid-range hotels were built during the Communist era in the corresponding architecture style, which might make them look less appealing from the outside, though the interiors might be perfectly adequate.
Budget hostels are mostly concentrated in the major cities, and you can expect typical hostel prices as in the rest of (Central) Europe. If you are venturing outside of cities, there are numerous mountain huts available for short-term rent in the mountain areas. Especially in touristy areas there will be many private rooms available for rent, look out for 'Zimmer Frei' signs. This typically does not include breakfast.
When hiking, official maintained mountain cabins offer cheap accommodation for hikers on trails in all of the national parks and a lot of the national conservation areas. They have a limited number of beds (if any) and generally limited capacity, so for the more frequented places during the high season an advance booking might be necessary and is recommended. If you don't manage to book a bed, you might be allowed to still stay overnight, sleeping on the floor in designated areas. Either way, you will probably want to bring your own sleeping bag. The facilities, due to the location, are limited, but there will be a shared toilet and possibly a shower. There's usually a kitchen that serves several hearty hot dishes and a number of drinks at pretty reasonable prices. For more information about prices and contact for mountain cabins in High Tatras see here.
The most important universities in Slovakia include:
At the secondary schooling level, there are several bilingual schools in Slovakia. The International Baccalaureate program with international recognition and transferability that is taught entirely in English can be studied at Gymnazium Jura Hronca in Bratislava.
A number of Slovak language courses and/or private tutors should be available in most major cities.
Video to help you learn about Slovakia can be found at High Tatras TV [36].
Slovakia is a member of the European Union so if you are a citizen of another member state, you can legally reside and work in Slovakia without restrictions. The most popular website for job listings is profesia.sk
Most Embassy offices will advise European Citizens as well. Average salary in 2009 was €750 a month. Best paid are IT experts with average salary over €1500 a month (construction workers earn around €560 a month and waiters €340 a month).
If you are from outside the EU, you will need a visa to work in Slovakia, and it's best to contact your and/or Slovak embassy for more information. Teaching English as a second language is a popular work option. Note that unless you are applying for certain positions in international firms and similar organisations where English/German might do, you will probably need a working knowledge of Slovak for most other jobs.
Stay safe
Slovakia is generally safe, even by European standards, and as a visitor you are unlikely to encounter any problems whatsoever. Violent crime is especially uncommon, and Slovakia sees less violent crime per capita than many European countries. However, the biggest fear for a traveler is most probably the roads.
Roads are generally poorly lighted, and are very narrow. If you plan to drive you must not be under the influence of alcohol. Penalties are very severe if you are caught in such an act.
When visiting cities, exercise the same caution as you would in any other European city - use common sense, be extra careful after the dark, stay aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings in sight and avoid drunks and groups of young men. Pickpockets sometimes can be found in bigger crowds and at major train/bus stations.
When visiting mountainous areas of Slovakia, especially the High Tatras, let the hotel personnel or other reliable people know where exactly you are going, so that rescuers can be sent out to find you if you don't return. The relative small area and height of the High Tatras is very deceptive - it is steep and difficult terrain with unpredictable weather. Never hike alone and use proper gear. The mountain rescue service is a good source of additional and current information, take their warnings seriously. In an event of emergency they can be contacted by calling 18300 or the universal 112. Make sure your medical insurance coverage includes the mountain activities before you venture forth, as a rescue mission in the inaccessible terrain may prove expensive.
Also note that the weather in the High Tatras is prone to sudden changes, especially during spring and autumn.
Slovakia is one of the few countries left in Europe, where the likes of bears and wolves still live in the wild. While no one has died from a bear attack in the last 100 years, a few attacks occur each year. Your chance of encountering one as a tourist is very low, but the possibility exists. A bear will avoid you if it knows you're there, so the best way to avoid this is by making your presence known by talking loudly/singing/clapping etc, especially in an area where it can't readily see you from a distance. If you see a bear, do not run, but leave the area slowly in the opposite direction. If you see one from your hotel - possibly feeding from the rubbish bins - which is a bit more common, though still unlikely - DO NOT approach or feed it.
Stay healthy
No vaccination is necessary to visit or stay in Slovakia although if you plan to visit countryside areas, tick vaccination is recommended. Also Hepatitis "A" and "B" vaccination is advisable as with all European countries.
Ticks can be found in the countryside forests and also sometimes in larger parks, and in some areas they may carry tick-borne encephalitis. As they reside in bushes and taller grass (when they fall of the trees). Therefore, when going hiking try to avoid thick undergrowth and always check all over your body when you return (ticks tend to seek warm spots). Remove the tick as soon as possible, by gently wiggling it out of the bite by its head (never break off or squeeze the body as the head will stay lodged in skin and might become infected). Do not touch the tick at any stage with bare hands, use tweezers and latex gloves.
Most of the food and drink is perfectly safe, the hygiene standards in Slovakia are the same as elsewhere in Western/Central Europe.
Tap water is drinkable everywhere - according to one study, water used as tap water in the Bratislava-Vienna region is the cleanest in the world. If you prefer mineral waters, you can choose from a multitude of brands, since Slovakia has quite possibly the highest number of natural mineral water springs per capita.
The High Tatras might not be the biggest or the most tallest mountain range, but some trails may feature strenuous climbs, rocky terrain, and the weather may prove unpredictable. Take proper gear, do not overestimate your abilities, and use common sense.
If you decide to swim in the local rivers/natural pools/lakes, as many locals do, remember that unless expressly stated otherwise, these activities are not supervised by a life guard, and you are doing so at your own risk.
The standard of health care is quite high, but the language barrier might be a problem as not many doctors speak English. However, this should not be a problem in major towns, which have a Fakultná nemocnica.
There are no over-the-counter drugs sold in Slovakia in supermarkets or drug stores, you will need to head to a pharmacy even if you just need an aspirin. In even smaller cities, there should be one open 24/7. Look out for the nearest green cross sign - even if this particular pharmacy is closed, a sign in the door will point you towards the nearest open one. If you need a specific medicine, make sure you have your prescription ready as many drugs require it.
Slovaks are friendly and peaceful people living in a free democratic state. There is not a single issue that would provoke hostility or real trouble. Usually the worst thing that could happen is that you would be thought a bit boorish and the history explained to you over another beer. However, it pays to be respectful and sensitive when discussing certain topics.
Remember that Slovakia is a separate nation that has been independent since 1993 when Czechoslovakia split into the Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic. It is also a 'young nation', as for most of its history it was a part of other multinational states such as Austria-Hungary or Czechoslovakia. Therefore, some people may be sensitive when it comes to nationality issues. There is no hostility or resentment when it comes to the Velvet divorce that split Czechoslovakia, and the two nations remain very amicable. Do not refer to Slovakia as a part of another state and you should be fine.
Slovakia's position during WWII was quite complex, and this topic is best avoided when speaking to nationalists. Similarly, the decades of Communism left its mark on the country and this can be a sensitive topic. Slovakia, while formerly a part of the Soviet bloc, has never been a part of the USSR or the Russian Empire. Please remember this.
Out of the more current issues, the relations with the Roma/Gypsy minority are sometimes strained and people may hold strong views on the subject. Do not venture into a debate unless you are intimately acquainted with the problem.
Slovaks are quite hospitable, and if they invite you into their home, expect to be well looked after and offered a variety of food and drinks. If you are invited in for lunch, expect a 2-3 course meal just as for dinner, as lunch is traditionally the main meal of the day. It is considered polite to bring a small gift for the host, such as a bottle of wine or good spirit, a box of chocolates, or a small bouquet of flowers. Never money.
Most people do not use their outdoor shoes inside for hygienic reasons, so take your shoes off in the hallway when entering somebody's home. Don't worry, they will find you a spare pair of slippers to keep your feet warm.
When dining in a restaurant with the host's family, it is customary for them to pick the bill. This might not happen, but don't be surprised if they do.
When being introduced to or meeting someone, even of the opposite sex, and even for the first time, it is not uncommon to kiss each other on the cheek once or twice (depending on the region) instead of shaking hands. It is not common between two males, but is quite normal for women. Do not be alarmed, and remember that this is not a sexual gesture.
The international calling code for Slovakia is +421.
In case of an emergency, call the universal number 112. You can also call directly on 150 for fire brigade, 155 in a medical emergency or 158 for the police.
Slovak phones operate on the GSM standard, which covers most of the country, and 3G is also becoming increasingly widespread. The coverage is surprisingly good, and you will often have signal even in mountain areas, unless you are in a deep ravine. There are three main operators - Orange, T-mobile and O2, and they all use 900 or 1800Mhz standard, which might not be compatible with some U.S. phones operating on 1900Mhz.
They all offer a variety of prepaid cards with various "pay as you go" schemes (some market research is advised, if you want the best deal) and incentives. If you have an unlocked phone, these are easy to pick up in any phone shop, or you can purchase a cheap phone with a prepaid card included.
There are still some phone boxes available, but with mobile phones now commonplace, they are declining in number. Also note that you might need to purchase a prepaid card to use some of them.
Wifi and broadband can be found more or less everywhere, and there will be an internet cafe/gaming room available somewhere even in smaller towns. Also, hostels, pubs, cafes, and some public institutions such as libraries or government buildings offer (usually free) wifi.
Mobile internet is available from 6 € / month via O2 provider or 3G prepaid mobile internet at 10-15€ for 5 GB. Broadband internet is available in most of the cities and some villages, prices depend on a location, in bigger cities you can get internet as cheap as 16€ per 100 Mbit/s downstream and 4 Mbit/s upstream from Orange (or slower from T-com or UPC).
All foreign embassies are located in Bratislava, in the old town part of the city. A list of embassies in Slovakia with contact information can be found on the country's web site [37] If your home country does not have an embassy in Slovakia, the nearest embassy can probably be found in Vienna in Austria, which is readily accessible by train, bus or car from Bratislava.


text:
Sell Property Fast Cash are the UK's leading home buying company with over 20 years of experience in selling properties fast. We offer a fully managed service to homeowners who can't wait any longer to sell their home on the open market, but still want to achieve the maximum value for it.
Our expert team of property professionals are here to assist you with any queries you may have in selling your house quickly. You can start by contacting us on 0800 68 99 420 or by submitting your details on the right hand side of the screen.
• Quick sale
• No Fees – Free and confidential private house sales
• Best price – Maximum value for your property
• Guaranteed
• No hidden obstacles or obligations
If you can't wait any longer to sell your house then try us now at Sell Property Fast Cash. You won't be disappointed. With up to 50% of advertised properties not selling, we will help you get to the winning post.
If you really need a fast home sale then our team are here to help. Our customer satisfaction goes beyond just an enquiry or a rapid property sale.
Our property experts manage the entire process, right up until the completion has taken place and the money is in your account. We keep you in the loop at all times by providing you with a dedicated login page for your property. So you "ALWAYS" know what stage the property sale is at throughout the completion process.
We buy any house! Whether you are struggling with debt, need to relocate quickly or have inherited a property, our sell property fast team will make you an offer regardless of its condition or location.
Sell Property Fast Cash actively purchase homes UK wide and can achieve a home sale in as little as 10 days. Sell your home quickly in Manchester, London, Liverpool and other locations with confidence and ease.
We offer free advice and provide every caller with a no obligation purchase offer to show how competitive we are compared to other home buyer companies.
Selling your house quickly in the UK does not have to be a painful or complicated process. Sell Property Fast Cash takes away the hassle of people traipsing around your home for viewings, the pressure of broken chains or even the stress of dealing with solicitors.
With many years experience in buying homes fast across the United Kingdom, we use a modern and unique approach in achieving a quick sale for your property. Our UK home buyers provide a fast, free and strictly confidential service.
You may have many reasons to sell your house quickly and as we have many customers we know you are not alone. Lots of other people are in exactly the same position as you are right now. Contact us to find out how we can help selling your property quickly, the first time around! Call 0800 68 99 420 Now!


text:
USAF Fact Sheet 95-03 by United States Air Force
Short Nonfiction Collection Vol. 009 by Various A collection of fifteen short nonfiction works in the public domain. The essays, speeches, news items and reports included in these collections are independently selected by the readers, and the topics encompass history, politics, philosophy, nature, religion, etc.