Odin Be Praised! Bulgaria Set to Join the Euro, More Booty for the Taking?

A New Land of Opportunity?

Hark my shield brothers and shield maidens! Ragnar Lothbrok here reporting from the shores of… well I'm not entirely sure where Bulgaria *is* but apparently they're about to join the Eurozone! The wise men in Brussels have decided they're worthy. Worthy of what you ask? Worthy of our attention perhaps! More lands to potentially trade with… or perhaps visit in our longboats should the gods will it. After all a Viking always seeks new horizons right?

Shiny Coins and Empty Coffers

They say this 'euro' will bring them 'stability' and 'prosperity'. Ha! I've seen more stability in a longship during a storm! But prosperity… now *that* is something that piques my interest. Will this mean more gold flowing? More opportunities for trade for plunder for… well you get the idea. As Floki would say 'Only the madman is absolutely sure.' So let's see if they really meet all these requirements or not. I am a bit skeptical because everything is possible.

Inflation: The Serpent in the Grass

Ah inflation. A trickster god if there ever was one! Last year Bulgaria was deemed too… *fiery* too expensive to join the Euro club. But now? Now they've tamed the beast at least according to the men in suits. 2.8% they say. A number as meaningless as the words of a Jarl trying to avoid a blood feud. But if they say so I shall take their word for it. For now…

Lev ing the Old Ways Behind?

Bulgaria is throwing away its old currency called the lev. The news brings mixed reactions it says. Some want to get rid of their levs and some do not. I can relate to that the good and the bad. Some are like "What's mine is mine" like Lagertha said. Some do not want to give up their independence. I on the other hand am mostly curious since my experience always taught me that change can be good as long as you are prepared for the upcoming opportunities.

A Nation Divided

The Bulgarians themselves seem divided on this whole 'euro' business. Some cheer some grumble. Reminds me of when I first proposed sailing West. Half my crew thought I was mad the other half were just too drunk to care! Their president is against the idea? Hah! Every great leader faces opposition. 'Power is always dangerous. It attracts the worst and corrupts the best,' as I once said.

To Raid or to Trade? That is the Question!

So what does this all mean for us Vikings both the spiritual and the literal ones? Will Bulgaria become a new land of opportunity ripe for trade and… perhaps a little… *exploration*? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Ragnar Lothbrok will be watching. And I'll be bringing my axes just in case. After all 'I believe my fate will decide not my strength'.