10-Day Relaxed Bulgaria Road Trip from Burgas to Varna and Shumen

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Bulgaria begins when you reach Burgas, where you’ll stay for a total of 3 nights.

Burgas is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. Around 34,514 visitors have rated this fascinating park and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Exploring the food culture in Burgas offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip.

An excellent example is Happy Bar & Grill. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,335 customers.

Romance Pub & Pizza serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Burgas has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,070 reviews.

If you’re curious about what Burgas looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Papa Beer - Craft Beer Bar, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 981 reviews.

Happy Bar & Grill offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Burgas. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,139 customers.

Locals like unwinding at GOTi - Family & Kitchen. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,786 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Bulgaria! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria, you’ll explore the area around Burgas, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights.

Around 3,006 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing must-see tourist destination that has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,048 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Harmanite Beach will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria more memorable. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,129 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Bulgaria is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Kavatsite is a well-loved bay by locals and tourists alike, and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,690 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Bulgaria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Burgas. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Burgas and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Burgas that will make your self-drive tour in Bulgaria more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Burgas for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Bulgaria by eating at one of the best restaurants in Burgas.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,122 customers, the dining experience Neptune offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Caribe, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Burgas is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,358 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Ti Bar & Kitchen - restorant i bar v Burgas, another well-known bar in Burgas. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 835 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Malibu. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 909 customers, Malibu is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Burgas.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is all about!

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Nessebar. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Varna, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 5 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Nesebar Archaeological Museum is waiting for you. This museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,692 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Ancient Theatre. This unique must-see tourist destination is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,905 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Church of Saint Sophia. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,816 visitors, this church is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Sunny Beach. This popular town and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,801 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to Park Obzor. This attraction is a valued park in the area that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,921 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Nessebar has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Varna. In Varna, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 645 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Sweet Parmy.

Locals also recommend Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna) as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna) as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,318 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Happy Bar & Grill. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,456 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Cubo. Cubo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,527 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Beach Bar Menthol. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,430 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to The Garden Bar. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. The Garden Bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,562 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Bulgaria!

Day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Bulgaria serves as your introduction to Varna. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Bulgaria and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Varna, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,550 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 5-star Grand Hotel London. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,053 guests, Grand Hotel London is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star Belle Epoque Hotel offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. Belle Epoque Hotel is a top-rated budget hotel in Varna with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,241 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Varna. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Varna, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding Asparuhov park. This best-rated sightseeing destination and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Varna. The fascinating Asparuhov park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,162 travelers.

Varna is also home to the captivating Sea Garden, a local urban park and another popular attraction in the city. About 32,141 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars.

A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you.

Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Varna, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Varna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Varna is Staria Chinar - Port Varna. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,810 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love Godzila Sevastopol for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Varna. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,248 customers.

Another alternative is Staria Chinar Restaurant. This restaurant serves a variety of comforting food and drinks and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,178 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Varna. At Muffin bar & coffee, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,718 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at The BRICK bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,387 reviews.

Bar PUNTA CANA is also one of the best places in Varna where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,540 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria, you'll explore the best attractions in Varna at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Varna, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 3 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna. This incredible top-tier point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,570 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Bulgaria by seeing another popular site in Varna, the wonderful Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,570 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Varna itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Bulgaria extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Varna. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Morska terasa. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,104 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at El Kapan, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. El Kapan is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by 3,370 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Happy Bar & Grill. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,955 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Varna and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Cuba Beach Bar. This vibrant bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,018 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Cafe Bar Soho. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 136 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks.

Enjoy the rest of day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 6 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Bulgaria gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Varna and visit more of its attractions.

Varna has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Retro Museum, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Retro Museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,701 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Monastery "Saints Constantine and Helena". This city feature got an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from its 1,619 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Varna is the notable Aladzha Monastery. The popular Aladzha Monastery is a highlight of many travel packages in Varna. As a matter of fact, this remarkable monastery has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 4,812 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Varna, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous Golden Dreams Boat. Take your time exploring this wonderful top-tier point of interest and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.3 stars out of 5 from 1,372 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Varna by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Varna.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Varna, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Stariyat chinar Preslav is one of the top restaurants in the city. This Varna-based food place has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,788 guests.

If you’re looking for another option near your accommodation, Mr Baba is also one of the best restaurants you can try in the city. Mr Baba proved an excellent choice for around 2,420 visitors, who gave the restaurant an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Varna, Makalali Beach. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.2 over 5 stars given by 2,461 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is Gossip Bar Max. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.3 over 5 stars by 452 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, Cafe-Bar Vogue may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 339 customers have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Varna and end day 6 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria on a great note!

Day 7 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Bulgaria gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Varna and visit more of its attractions.

Varna has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 1 night more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Roman Thermae Varna, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Roman Thermae Varna has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,690 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Clock Tower of Varna. This city feature got an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from its 605 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Varna is the notable Yunashki Salon. The popular Yunashki Salon is a highlight of many travel packages in Varna. As a matter of fact, this remarkable must-see tourist destination has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 572 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Varna, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. Take your time exploring this wonderful eastern orthodox cathedral and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 6,920 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to the outstanding Archaeological Museum Varna. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,127 travelers, a trip to the spectacular Archaeological Museum Varna is something to look forward to in Varna.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Varna by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Varna.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Varna, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Captain Cook Varna is one of the top restaurants in the city. This Varna-based food place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,043 guests.

If you’re looking for another option near your accommodation, "Halbata" Restaurant is also one of the best restaurants you can try in the city. "Halbata" Restaurant proved an excellent choice for around 1,580 visitors, who gave the restaurant an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another local favorite in Varna is Kramer pastry, which has an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 1,428 individuals’ reviews.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Varna, Deja Vu. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.3 over 5 stars given by 361 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is Vogue cafe bar. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.3 over 5 stars by 259 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, THE VAULT BAR may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 175 customers have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Varna and end day 7 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria on a great note!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Shumen, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Pliska Fortress is waiting for you. This archaeological reserve has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,332 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Archaeological Museum "Professor Rasho Rashev". This unique museum is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,047 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Dvor na kirilitsata. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,697 visitors, this museum is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Preslav Fortress. This popular archaeological museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,718 people.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Shumen has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Shumen. In Shumen, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,743 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Barbarossa Beach Club.

Locals also recommend Primo Bar & Grill as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Primo Bar & Grill as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,308 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Vienna garden. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,079 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like BACARDI CLUB. BACARDI CLUB is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,210 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Zino Club. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 646 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to SPORTEN BAR I GRIL "REFERITE". This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. SPORTEN BAR I GRIL "REFERITE" is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 285 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Bulgaria!

Day 9 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Shumen. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Burgas, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Historical and archaeological reserve Shumen Fortress is waiting for you. This best-rated sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,406 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Park Kyoshkovete. This unique park is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,424 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,219 visitors, this museum is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park. This popular park and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,445 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to Madara Horseman. This attraction is a valued must-see tourist destination in the area that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,348 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Shumen has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Burgas. In Burgas, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,536 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Flora Bar & Grill Burgas.

Locals also recommend Incanto restaurant as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Incanto restaurant as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,786 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,478 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Saxa Beach. Saxa Beach is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 904 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Cardamon Soul Food & Drinks 🌿. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 716 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Bar Bossa. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Bar Bossa is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 596 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Bulgaria!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Burgas.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. To end your relaxing road trip in Bulgaria on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

The Clock is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Burgas. This top sight is a popular best-rated sightseeing destination, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,731 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Burgas or just grab something light to keep you going.

Check out the menu at Zlatna ribka. Dining at Zlatna ribka is one of the best food experiences you can have in Burgas. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,494 customers.

Another top recommendation in Burgas is 8 Mamas. If you go to 8 Mamas, you can expect delicious food, a nice ambiance, and great service. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,238 customers.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Burgas and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.