Bucharest, a city destroyed for complete reconstruction, with the worlds largest parliament. We explore a communist history that erased an identity, and visit the worlds first oil refinery, a location that provided fuel for the Nazi regime in a country that could be the first to run dry of natural resources. In Brasov, we visit Europe's largest bear sanctuary and the home of the real Count Dracula.
Yugoslavia has collapsed, but what lies in its place? In Belgrade, we explore trafficking and nationalism in a country where communist life is scarred in the urban landscape. Travelling in a Yugo we visit the 'Dubai' of the Balkans before heading to mountainous highlands. We cross into Kosovo, a country attempting to overcome an image of war, as tourism provides the opportunity for rejuvenation.
Secrets are revealed - a country attempting to recreate their identity, North Macedonia has experienced more than a name change. We discover a city of statues, where west meets east and uncover a forgotten past that lays dormant on the lake bed. My story ends in Bulgaria, where I go beyond the boozy beach trips of Sunny Beach to see the true identity of the Balkans.