Slovakia is a beautiful country located in Central Europe boasting mountains, forests, valleys, arts, culture and castles. Officially known as the Slovak Republic, the country celebrated its independence from the former 'Czechoslovakia' (now the Czech Republic) in January 1993 and became a member of the European Union (and NATO) in 2004.
Bordered by the Czech Republic and Austria in the west, Poland in the north, Ukraine in the east and Hungary in the south Slovakia is new to the medical and dental tourism arena, but a destination well worth considering for very competitively priced treatment only a short flight from the UK.
Bratislava
The capital Bratislava, formerly known as Pressburg or Pozsony, is located on the river Danube, in the south west, and could best be described as quaint, rather than bustling, as it has more of a small town feel to it than many capital cities. Slovaks, Germans, Jews and Hungarians have all lived here and with the castle overlooking the city from its hilltop position, Bratislava is a very beautiful and charming city to explore. As one of the youngest capitals in Europe, it is also a dynamically developing city with an increasing number of attractions and places of interest. As far as culture goes, music and opera (the Slovak National Theatre is located in a beautiful Habsburg-era building) are both big in Bratislava; and the city boasts over 20 art galleries and plenty of museums for the history buff.
Bratislava boasts a wealth of excellent shopping, with major names sitting alongside unique and original stores. What’s more, with Slovakian salaries just a third of those in the UK, you’ll find exceptional value at every turn, giving you savings that are worth the trip on their own. Slovakia’s adoption of the Euro in September 2010 makes it even easier for you to work out what you’re spending.
As for dining; expect to find a cafe, bar, restaurant or pub on almost every corner and in the spring/summer time the tables and chairs will line the pedestrian streets so you can enjoy a glass of al fresco local Vino, along with some traditional food like Bryndzove Halusky, small dumplings made of potato dough, (similar to the Italian dish; Gnocchi). Shopaholics will also be pleased to discover the city is great for shopping and can bend their plastic in the malls at Polus City Centre, Aupark, Avion, Tatracentrum, Danubiana Shopping Center and Soravia Shopping Palace which are packed full of bargain designer brands, the likes of Pierre Cardin, Swarovski, Tom Tailor, Follie Follie, Trussardi as well as high street stores like Sisley and Mango.
Slovakia may currently be struggling to shake off its post-communist reputation, but it won’t be long before its reputation begins to spread.
Slovakia : a year-round destination
If you choose to travel to Slovakia for cosmetic surgery, dentistry, medical spa treatment or rehabilitation, you could combine treatment with a holiday in this beautiful country.
Sports
In Slovakia's ski resorts you can enjoy winter sports at unbelievable prices, and at other times of the year there's a choice of sports and activities including hiking, cycling, horse riding, fishing and golf.
City break
Bratislava offers a rich variety of culture, food and architecture, as well as more extreme activities such as hot air ballooning, parachute jumping and climbing.
Culture and sights
See castles, chateaux, churches, sacred monuments and museums.
Nature and landscape
Forests, lakes, mountains, rivers and hot springs provide a range of outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities.
For further information on Slovakia visit the Slovak Tourist Board.
Treatment providers in Slovakia