For over 6,000 years Plovdiv has developed and maintained its own philosophy embracing Epicureanism and other important philosophy trends. Some call it a lifestyle; others consider it a serious business. Despite its long history it has been shaped and formulated for the past 10 – 15 years. The philosophy of Aylyak is specific Plovdiv state of mind. The name comes from the Turkish ‘aylak’ meaning idle.
It may also come from ‘I Like’ as in the song “B**ches I Like”, which in Plovdivian is pronounced “бича яйляк” meaning to be absolutely free and relaxed and enjoy the pleasures of life to the n-th degree. Before Aylyak the word used to clarify this specific philosophy of life was “gusto”, i.e. vigorous enjoyment. Plovdivians used to express their love for their home town with the phrase “Gusto, mayna, Philibeto”, where “mayna” is another word for a Plovdivian or “dude” and Philibe is an older name for Plovdiv.
Experience Aylyak in Kapana with a craft beer or some wine and a bite to eat, maybe in the newly opened Aylyakria enjoying long relaxed afternoon talks with your friends. Play dice in the Old Town,  climb up to Nebet Tepe and watch the world go by below, enjoy the summer cinema or just read a book and relax in the afternoon sun.
Slow down. Look around. Listen. Speak. Keep quiet. Have a dance. Take it easy. Enjoy the moment in Plovdiv!