The latest country to join the Eurozone is Slovakia, which officially adopted the Euro in January 2009. This landlocked country in Eastern Europe has already seen prices rise by 100% since 2004 and, in the past, joining the Eurozone has had a positive effect on other countries. If you’re debating whether to take the plunge and invest in Slovakia, then here’s a look at some of the areas worth considering.

Bratislava

Located on the banks of the River Danube and near the foot of the mountains of Small Carpathians, Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, has been experiencing much growth and redevelopment over the last few years. Interest in property here has soared and so too have property prices.

A major selling point for many investors is Bratislava’s prime location. It’s within easy reach of other large cities, such as Vienna, Prague and Budapest, and is only about 45 minutes away from two major airports, yet prices are significantly cheaper than Prague or Vienna.

Kosice

Often referred to as the ‘cultural centre of eastern Slovakia,’ the city of Kosice is the second largest in the country and has a rich cultural and historical heritage. Like Bratislava, there’s been a lot of interest in property in Kosice over the last few years – but prices are notably less than those of the capital. Although still out on a bit of a limb, ease of access to Kosice will be opened up more when extensions to the D1 motorway are fully operational (this is planned to happen next year, in 2010).

Together with Bratislava, Kosice will be hosting the 2011 Ice Hockey World Championship in April and May 2011. As a result, the cities are busy updating and building new facilities, to accommodate visitors and competitors.

The Tatra Mountains

The Tatra or Tatras Mountains are a large mountain range – the highest in the Carpathian Mountains – that acts as a natural border between Slovakia and its neighbour, Poland. They’re a very popular tourist destination, especially during the winter months, when skiers flock to the mountains in their droves, and ski properties sell well here as a result.

For those interested in investing in a ski property, but who are put off by the prices in countries such as Austria or Switzerland, then this area of Slovakia is a good alternative.

If you’re keen to buy in Slovakia, take a look at what’s available.