Slovakia deserves its own turn in the spotlight. When it split with the Czech Republic in 1993, Slovakia got the heavy industry and a less progressive government. The Czechs got the tourist sights, most of the economic opportunity and the "buzz" on the international scene. But with its flood of visitors, the Czech Republic also acquired some of the less appealing aspects of a tourist hot spot, including overbooked hotels and predatory pricing.
Slovakia, by contrast, is largely undeveloped, and its mountain villages maintain a traditional way of life. It still has much for travelers to discover. Although the country is not yet a full-fledged tourist destination, it has taken the first steps toward accommodating travelers: Return visitors will notice the difference. If nothing else, Slovakia's cheap price tag will convince many first-time visitors to give it a chance.