If you don't understand or speak any Bulgarian, don't read on. However, if you intend to settle down in this country, or want to show your appreciation for Bulgarian culture or your loved one's in-laws, you are probably taking Bulgarian classes where you get taught how to say "excuse me" and "cheers," which you gladly will, to the bemusement of your Bulgarian chums.

Even fluent Bulgarian speakers, including people who were actually born in this country, sometimes have a difficulty to understand what's really going on in the minds of their fellow citizens. Applying Western rational thought does not help since it is unable to dissect the thinking patterns of the Bulgarian society.

Truth be told, there will a lot more than eight things that will probably put visiting Americans off their rocker here, but this is a good start. As usual, use as much of your common sense as you can, throw in a large pinch of salt, and treat with at least of modicum of humour. Remember: It ain't over till the fact lady sings!

Routine can be a killjoy, but while churning out day in, day out each of our 100 issues we have rarely felt bored. Besides our regular topics on travel and politics, we produced lengthy, special features and sometimes ruffled some feathers in the establishment.

Bad service remains major problem in Bulgaria

Anyone familiar with the Communist-era signs produced to instruct Bulgarian citizens and villagers to keep their surroundings clean and to tell on anyone caught in the act of not doing so might have thought nothing could surpass their stupidity.

If you are unsure when to take a bath or visit a sick friend, and what soup to choose, seek advice from the public signs of Communism

Drink that looks but does not taste like it's already been drunk

With a bit of know-how and plenty of luck getting to places in a car can be a fascinating experience

Instead of Europe, Bulgaria increasingly finds itself in Latin America