The former Yugoslav republic of Slovenia, which gained its independence in 1991, is slightly smaller than New Jersey. With one toe dipped in the Adriatic and several major rivers and lakes, water sports are popular. To the east, the Alps provide excellent hiking and skiing. Nestled below its castle, the capital of Llubjana is a vibrant, youthful city with a thrilling arts scene, a flotilla of festivals and impressive architecture that runs the stylistic gamut from Renaissance to Art Nouveau.