At Hotel “Visualiza”, we host many interesting people, and among them is a young couple from Sofia who caught our eye and that of other guests. They radiate such style and elegance! As a hotel that values and preserves a part of Plovdiv’s history, we couldn’t help but be curious about the stories of our guests. The couple kindly agreed to share more about themselves and why they love the City of the Hills so much. The “Visualiza” team conducted a brief interview, marking the beginning of a new section in our blog where we introduce you to our interesting guests.
Jelena Filipović-Stoyanova is a career diplomat who graduated with honors from one of the most prestigious universities in Moscow, the “Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia.” She is fluent in five languages and is currently learning a sixth. After serving two terms as the head of the Montenegrin Embassy in Bulgaria, she now works as an expert in the development of foundations and associations, one of which is the “Start Young” foundation that connects young people with businesses and will be hosting an event in Plovdiv.
Lino Stoyanov graduated in acting. He successfully organizes major theater and music events for Bulgarians who live in England. He runs his own company for event management and equipment rental for sound and lighting. In recent years, he has produced three of his own shows – “SketchBanda,” “Exemplary Cabaret,” and “Talking with Diana.” Soon, he is preparing a new project for Bulgaria, which he promised to tell us about during his next visit.
What do you look for in an experience when you go on vacation?
We primarily seek tranquility, courteous service, cleanliness, and delicious food—all of which Hotel “Visualiza” won us from the very beginning.
Why did you choose Plovdiv?
Plovdiv is always a preferred destination for us when we want to escape for a night or two from our busy lives in Sofia. We are drawn to the city’s beauty, especially in the central area, and its rich cultural program. We love walking by the Amphitheater, the Basilica, the streets of the Old Town, the museums, and so on.
Tell us about your stay at “Visualiza.”
We learned about the hotel from the social media and friends. We didn’t know there was a five-star hotel in the middle of the city center.
We were impressed by the hotel’s service and atmosphere. We consider ourselves difficult customers (laughs) because, in Bulgaria, we apparently ask for too much—pleasant service, clean rooms designed with aesthetics, tranquility, and proximity to iconic landmarks. And, of course, delicious food. At most places, either the food is good, but the staff is unwelcoming, or everyone is very kind, but something like the spa isn’t working.
At “Visualiza,” we had a two-day stay that we will remember for a long time because everything was balanced perfectly. The location is convenient, just a few minutes walk from our favorite shops and places in Plovdiv. Beautiful views, comfortable beds, cleanliness, comfort, and stylishly arranged rooms.
The history of the hotel is very interesting, which we noticed right at the reception. Jelena was browsing the old documents left from the time when the building housed the production of the first Bulgarian cigars.
We must also mention the outstandingly delicious restaurant “Valere.” We are connoisseurs of good food, and it’s been a long time since we’ve tasted such well-balanced flavors in food—you won us over here as well. Since then, we haven’t stopped recommending you—if you’re a connoisseur of Fine Dining and Fine Living, this is the place in Plovdiv!
Should we expect you again?
Oh yes, we can’t wait—we already have a date reserved in October with friends.
