The Bansko People Banskalli The ‘Banskalli’ or ‘people’ of Bansko’ are warm-hearted, hard-working and generous in nature. They are one of the reasons Bansko is so well visited and loved by all nationalities.   The People and Tourism The people of Bansko are certainly embracing the changes that tourism is bringing to their town. Instead of moving away as in previous years, younger people are remaining in Bansko to work or open their own businesses and already existing Bulgarian businesses are rapidly expanding. As the once quiet town of Bansko transforms into a major resort, with more cranes, cars and buildings appearing daily, you would expect some sort of slur to be made         against the British, who make up around 80% of the investors to the town. However, Banskalli’s love us Brits and really do welcome us with open arms. Most young people have a very good grasp of the English language (from films and music as well as their schooling) and as shops and restaurants rely on tourist trade, most staff have diplomas in English. Family Values However, as well as welcoming change the people of Bansko resiliently hold onto their traditions and way of life. The people of Bansko hold family values in extremely high regard which mean that most Bulgarians live in extended family groups, with grandmothers and grandfathers never too far away to lend a helping hand. Children generally go to school much later than in the UK, with nursery schools practically unheard of. Instead if both parents go to work, children under 6 will usually spend their days with their grandparents or great aunts and uncles.     Traditions Bansko has many traditions and celebrations and the parties are long and loud. The people of Bansko usually treat feast days such as St Elijah’s Day or the Assumption, as a few days for drinking and dancing. Traditional live music is played and it is not uncommon for the musicians and party goers to dance together around the Bansko streets.