Bulgaria Ski discussion board

Hi
we've booked today to come to pamps, staying at Malina Villas. One of us has been before yonks ago, but can't remember much, so all help on a couple of questions would be greatly appreciated.

1. We're staying at Malina Villas. Does anyone know if we can ski to the door (depending on Villa) as the piste map shows it as looking fairly do-able?

2. I know Bulgaria uses Levs. Can we buy these before we go, or can we still only buy them there and if so, where is the best place to exchange them. When there before, it was only legal to change them at your reception or whatever, but loads of people changed them for a much higher rate everywhere else. Is that still the case, would much prefer to be safe not sorry.

3. We're coming with the kids aged 7 and 5. Are there any single person ski chairs (seem to remember one) on the child friendly routes or has that changed (or is my memory a bit faulty!) as little one doesn't fancy going on a chair on her own.

I'll probably think of other questions, but for now, answers to these would be much appreciated...

ta

Marks and Spencer generally have the best UK exchange rate, but not all branches have this faciility so you need to check first. You'll have to pre-order and the rate in Pamps is usually better, so only get enough for your first day.
There's an exchange bureau at the ski centre, but it gets very busy on a morning. Last year, we exchanged at the supermarket in town and got a good deal.
We visited Bulgaria several times in the 1990s when even the travel reps told you it was better to exchange illegally because the rate was so much higher than in the banks. However, that's not the case any more - and I wouldn't risk it.
There is one single chair lift, but you don't have to use it - you can get to mid-station and to top using three and four man chairs. I don't like the single either!
You collect and store your boots and skis at the ski centre, which is close to where you are staying. We've always booked our skis with the travel company - less hassle!

Thanks Guys. We go on the 16th Feb too. So, we've been back and added skis/boots etc to our booking so we're sorted with that. We'll get a few levs before we go, but will exchange over there 'officially'! We'll also avoid the single chair lift and use the others. SimonSki - if you've been to the Malina Villas before, do you know....

What time do you have to check out on your last day; and
when you arrive, does someone help you bring your luggage to your chalet (or do we trudge up there with four cases and two knackered kids ) Also, whats the food like (I know it can be pretty terrible in Bulgaria - so not expecting much). Thanks again!