Capital: Bratislava

The Slovak Republic is situated in Central Europe, sharing frontiers with the Czech Republic, Austria, Poland, Hungary and Ukraine. The capital, Bratislava, is the economic and cultural center of the country.

Language: The official language is Slovak. Hungarian, Ukrainian and German are spoken by ethnic minorities. English is also spoken.

Electricity: Generally 230 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are in use. Lamp fittings are normally of the screw type.

Climate: The Slovak Republic lies in a moderate zone and possesses a continental climate with four distinct seasons. The average daily temperature in Bratislava in winter is 31 °F, rising to 70 °F in the summer. January is the coldest month, the hottest being July and August. The highest peaks are snowcapped 130 days a year.