JimJ
English expat in Bulgaria
Forum posts
1793
About me
English
Speaks Greek, English, French, Bulgarian, German
Registration: 07 December 2015
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
Prospective homebrewers here should be aware that getting the right kind of cleaning and, especially, sanitising chemicals is not easy: things are still at a pretty primitive stage and what there is is primarily aimed at old-school winemaking. ... Read More
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
@janemulberry A kitchen island can be any size you want, and it can be on wheels so that you can move it where you need it, or away from where you don't need it, at any time. You can get wheels that rise up off the floor to make it more ... Read More
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
Oops, now I see the link! You still bake, just cheat on the starter. Here, I cheat on everything and buy the bread. Our UK kitchen is too small to even attempt to bake in. But I have sourced a GF sourdough starter in Bg, Zoya sell it, and all the ... Read More
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
@janemulberry You need a trip to Sofia! Hit usually have a good range of gluten-free flour, pasta etc. Read More
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
I mostly cheat my sourdough bread nowadays.... 😎https://tinyurl.com/fpcaatnk Read More
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
@janemulberry The trouble is that it's a hassle - and good BG apple vinegar is plentiful and dirt cheap.. Read More
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
@JimJ I've been thinking about home made cider, but don't know how to make it clear and sparkle. I could make some West country scrumpy but it doesn't appeal...any suggestions. - @stevejbhome To make a clear, sparkling cider instead of a cloudy ... Read More
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
My father-in-law made excellent rakiya - and a lot of terrible wine... 😁 Read More
Topers' Brew... by JimJ
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻
My preferred home-made tipple is cider: with all our medical toing and froing, I've fallen behind somewhat this year but the French and American oak chips are festering away nicely in, respectively, 25 year old rakiya and my secret blend of Bourbon, ... Read More
Electricity bills by Lisa PD
Hello all,I wonder if anyone could give me some advice regarding electricity billing. I recently (March 2022) bought a flat in the Pirin Golf Complex and idiotically didn't enquire as to the cost of electricity here, as assumed it would be similar ...
@janemulberry To get the cheapest possible electricity bill you have to shop around and get the lowest offer; the problem is that shopping around for a single house is pretty much impossible as the major suppliers aren't keen on "negotiating" over ... Read More
Electricity bills by Lisa PD
Hello all,I wonder if anyone could give me some advice regarding electricity billing. I recently (March 2022) bought a flat in the Pirin Golf Complex and idiotically didn't enquire as to the cost of electricity here, as assumed it would be similar ...
@stevie780 Commercial and domestic rates are very similar nowadays: the domestic rate is controlled by the government and averages ~€0.150 / kWh - suppliers have a monopoly in their area; commercial enterprises are able to shop around for their ... Read More
Topers' Brew...
Just as a matter of interest, are there any other members who make their own alcoholic refreshments? 🍾🍻 Read More
Never thought selling an apartment would be cumbersome by Daiime
I just need to went a little frustration here. Here's my story: Got married with a prenuptial agreement. Inherited money. Bought an apartment in Sofia (Lozenets) in 2015 for 85 000 € 90 square metres, two bedrooms, two balconies, bathroom ...
Though there may also be folks here who didn't relocate by choice. - @janemulberry Interpol don't stop looking....😎 Read More
Drivers Licence exchange in Bulgaria by tanyacastignani64
Has anyone had experience exchanging a South African Category B (normal passenger vehicle) drivers licence for a Bulgaria drivers license? Or has anyone used a service in Plovdiv to facilitate the exchange of a drivers licence at KAT?
@Zooldrool As part of the WA the requirement was suspended for UK driving licences; however it gets a bit murky after that: the MVR lists the relevant laws and requirements on their web site but that site has two versions of the requirements, one ... Read More
Drivers Licence exchange in Bulgaria by tanyacastignani64
Has anyone had experience exchanging a South African Category B (normal passenger vehicle) drivers licence for a Bulgaria drivers license? Or has anyone used a service in Plovdiv to facilitate the exchange of a drivers licence at KAT?
Since SA and BG are both signatories of the 1968 Vienna Convention, it's exactly the same as any other non-EU country's licence. The process is pretty much the same as with a post-2021 UK licence: you'll need a certified translation of your SA ... Read More
Never thought selling an apartment would be cumbersome by Daiime
I just need to went a little frustration here. Here's my story: Got married with a prenuptial agreement. Inherited money. Bought an apartment in Sofia (Lozenets) in 2015 for 85 000 € 90 square metres, two bedrooms, two balconies, bathroom ...
This didn't age well, I am hoping they didn't sell and kept it. - @Zooldrool It's an all too common refrain: I came to X because it isn't like my own country, Y - so why don't they do things the way we do in Y? 🙄 Read More
New members of the Bulgaria forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Bulgaria forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@Sully33 Much of Bulgaria's attractiveness to foreign residents depends on their financial circumstances. If you have good medical coverage, a healthy bank balance, and a decent pension then you can live well here. But by the same token, you could ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@jeanmandredeix Most other things that are likely to happen to you here will be plain sailing now that you've had a taste of Balkan Bureaucracy; but, as I've said before, they're mostly tyros compared to the heights of lunacy you'll come across in ... Read More
Never thought selling an apartment would be cumbersome by Daiime
I just need to went a little frustration here. Here's my story: Got married with a prenuptial agreement. Inherited money. Bought an apartment in Sofia (Lozenets) in 2015 for 85 000 € 90 square metres, two bedrooms, two balconies, bathroom ...
@JuilaOui "Everything is always damn complicated in Bulgaria even when it shouldn't be" If you think that, make sure you never live in Greece! 😁 Read More
UK Shipments by JimJ
If anyone is using the various UK-BG-UK shipping companies (GGBG/Gabiel etc), you might like to know that the tariffs instituted primarily against incoming Chinese goods are now impacting shipments from/to the UK. GGBG are ceasing shipments from the ...
@PlovdivEd You're right 😚I haven't used Gabielli for so long that I'm surprised they still have my email address and I didn't notice it wasn't GGBG. Time to get some stuff ordered up PDQ, just in case... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@jeanmandredeix Yes, the "29" is the year if expiry - which should match the expiry of your Residence Permit. You'll keep the same number and the same plate, including the "29" Read More
UK Shipments by JimJ
If anyone is using the various UK-BG-UK shipping companies (GGBG/Gabiel etc), you might like to know that the tariffs instituted primarily against incoming Chinese goods are now impacting shipments from/to the UK. GGBG are ceasing shipments from the ...
@PlovdivEd I had an email from GGBG about a week ago..last run from UK is this weekend; last date for delivery to their UK office is tomorrow (25th) Read More
UK Shipments by JimJ
If anyone is using the various UK-BG-UK shipping companies (GGBG/Gabiel etc), you might like to know that the tariffs instituted primarily against incoming Chinese goods are now impacting shipments from/to the UK. GGBG are ceasing shipments from the ...
@Jules999 I make so much other stuff (bread, booze, pasta, home smoking et al) that I just don't have time to add to the list, not to mention that I don't think I can make it for the same price or get the right ingredients here in BG.One effect of ... Read More
UK Shipments by JimJ
If anyone is using the various UK-BG-UK shipping companies (GGBG/Gabiel etc), you might like to know that the tariffs instituted primarily against incoming Chinese goods are now impacting shipments from/to the UK. GGBG are ceasing shipments from the ...
@SimCityAT Yes, but they only have a small range of goods - and large prices... 😥I like Geeta's Premium Mango Chutney, which no-one sells here, and especially not at £6.99 for a 1.5kg jar, which is what it costs on Amazon.. Read More
UK Shipments by JimJ
If anyone is using the various UK-BG-UK shipping companies (GGBG/Gabiel etc), you might like to know that the tariffs instituted primarily against incoming Chinese goods are now impacting shipments from/to the UK. GGBG are ceasing shipments from the ...
@Zooldrool I suspect that won't go on for too much longer, once the regulations are fully in effect. I'm sure it's an "unofficial" arrangement with no guarantees or insurance, let alone tax declarations. There have been many such services over the ... Read More
Hello Amerikanka in Bulgaria! by kimholleman
Hello Expats,I am Kim Holleman staying in Veliko Tarnovo. I pursue many different projects here including art projects, home renovation projects, interior design, and working with animals.After 30 years in NYC, I was ready to live the slow life in ...
@kimholleman Tomatoes are fruit...and I'm a pedant 😁 Read More
UK Shipments by JimJ
If anyone is using the various UK-BG-UK shipping companies (GGBG/Gabiel etc), you might like to know that the tariffs instituted primarily against incoming Chinese goods are now impacting shipments from/to the UK. GGBG are ceasing shipments from the ...
@Zooldrool I buy the "important stuff" (real Indian chutney, and Lea & Perrins Worcester sauce 😎) in bulk and have enough to last me a year or so already, plus another consignment of both on the last trip from England on Friday..I buy ... Read More
UK Shipments
If anyone is using the various UK-BG-UK shipping companies (GGBG/Gabiel etc), you might like to know that the tariffs instituted primarily against incoming Chinese goods are now impacting shipments from/to the UK. GGBG are ceasing shipments from the ... Read More
How many houses do you have? by Zooldrool
It seems like a lot of folk here more than one house (or a flat in the city and house in a village etc). If so how many do you have and is it a burden with the upkeep or dream lifestyle.We have one in the city and one on the coast but I am thinking ...
@Zooldrool Bulgaria, and the Balkans in general, are a bit different to most of Europe, in that it's common to have several properties in the immediate family, sometimes jointly owned by a ridiculous number of people. It can be a nightmare, ... Read More
ET vs EOOD - did anyone here actually regret the choice? by Daniel Malbasic
I set companies up here for a living, so I know the theory. What I do not have is the lived side of it, and that is what I am after.On paper the ET is cheaper and faster and the EOOD gives you the liability separation. That is the textbook answer ...
@dawnecowles An ET is a Sole Proprietorship. As a general rule, you are indeed better off running as an EOOD; you should only be paying 10% tax on your profits and 5% dividend tax if you withdraw further profits - if you don't draw down that ... Read More
How many houses do you have? by Zooldrool
It seems like a lot of folk here more than one house (or a flat in the city and house in a village etc). If so how many do you have and is it a burden with the upkeep or dream lifestyle.We have one in the city and one on the coast but I am thinking ...
@JimJ Interesting. I own an apartment in a two blocks, one small block, one big. The small one has just six apartments. We used to have a management company, to clean the floors, repair lighting (no lift) but we got fed up with their poor standard. ... Read More
How many houses do you have? by Zooldrool
It seems like a lot of folk here more than one house (or a flat in the city and house in a village etc). If so how many do you have and is it a burden with the upkeep or dream lifestyle.We have one in the city and one on the coast but I am thinking ...
@janemulberry My experience has been that owning an apartment is very much a curate's egg: if there are simple ongoing expenses, like cleaning common areas or maintaining lifts, it's a nightmare to get everyone to pay their way; when it comes to a ... Read More
How many houses do you have? by Zooldrool
It seems like a lot of folk here more than one house (or a flat in the city and house in a village etc). If so how many do you have and is it a burden with the upkeep or dream lifestyle.We have one in the city and one on the coast but I am thinking ...
No comment... 😎 Read More
Been extremely ill. Been in hospital for 4 days now by cyberescue1
I was admitted to St Marina Hospital on Thursday night, after walking in to A&E with my wife.This is what I posted on Facebook, as for many, especially those in or near Varna, it will give information on what the medical service is like here ...
Be careful about "private rooms"; I had my total knee replacement operation on one of the chain of new Vita Group hospitals - very clean and modern. I had a "private room" (chargeable, of course) but it was only private until it wasn't; ie until ... Read More
Most common payment methods in Bulgaria by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Moving to Bulgaria, even simple things like paying for groceries or a coffee can feel different. In order to help fellow expats and soon-to-be expats better prepare for their daily transactions, we invite you to share your ...
There's no requirement for traders to accept cards if they prefer cash, subject to the restriction on €5,000 transactions*. However they must have a system connected to НАП and must issue the buyer with a fiscal receipt ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@jeanmandredeix You MIGHT be able to get by but it'd be a gamble. Unfortunately I'm still not mobile or I'd offer to help but vrprevodi(dot)com are not far from the KAT offices and have good reviews; they apparently offer interpreter services, so ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@jeanmandredeix I wouldn't say "usual Brit thing": to my mind it's the sign of a civilised and humane person - sadly, when it comes to animals, they're in rather short supply in the Balkans.. Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@jeanmandredeix Aha - yes, if you have a Prolonged Residency then you will have to do it in Sofia; given the hassle involved in going back to KAT every time you renew your residency you're right to look at the EOOD route (with standard white plates) ... Read More
Most common payment methods in Bulgaria by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Moving to Bulgaria, even simple things like paying for groceries or a coffee can feel different. In order to help fellow expats and soon-to-be expats better prepare for their daily transactions, we invite you to share your ...
Number 1 is the debit card (credit cards aren't popular here). Number 2 is cash (for small payments*) when dealing with small transactions/private sellers.Bigger transactions, as everyone knows/should know - ie €5,000 and over - are illegal if ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@janemulberry Re-reading previous posts, he apparently has a 5-year permit.However even if it's only a one-year permit you're still entitled to an "XX registration" but with the hassle of having to renew the vehicle registration every year when you ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
That's not right! If you hold a 5-year residence permit then under Ordinance No. I-45 you are entitled to register it under your own name, but only at the KAT regional headquarters dealing with your registered address, and you will only get an XX ... Read More
Been extremely ill. Been in hospital for 4 days now by cyberescue1
I was admitted to St Marina Hospital on Thursday night, after walking in to A&E with my wife.This is what I posted on Facebook, as for many, especially those in or near Varna, it will give information on what the medical service is like here ...
@Snowball6 It's fairly standard Balkan medical treatment, I'm afraid - it's not just confined to Bulgaria.As I've mentioned in previous posts, I've seen some pretty awful things in all the years I've lived here, including in "top" private hospitals. ... Read More
Fishing permit by tammyunhelpful314
Does anyone know the latest rules for getting a fishing permit in Bulgaria if you’re a foreigner without Bulgarian residency?
PS There are gear and catch limits for sea fishing but no permit required. Read More
Fishing permit by tammyunhelpful314
Does anyone know the latest rules for getting a fishing permit in Bulgaria if you’re a foreigner without Bulgarian residency?
Anyone can buy a permit, including holidaymakers. There's a reduction if you're over 60/65 (female/male). You can get a weekly/monthly/half-yearly/annual permit. There are limits on catch sizes. You don't need a permit to fish private waters but the ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@jeanmandredeix Is it a Permanent Residency permit? Read More
Is Bulgaria still cheap? by Piccadilly
I’ve been coming to Bulgaria for years now and actually own a property here. However, with everything going on, I haven’t been back since 2022. I'm finally back for a few weeks, and I've really noticed that prices have gone up.It ...
Wait until the outrageous Botaş deal, signed by our illustrious PM (aka Russian Asset #001) as a parting gift to the country when he copied his hero Uncle Vlad and transmuted from the country's worst President to its most ineffective PM.Gas ... Read More
Anyone want a pool table? by JimJ
I hope this post is okay, Admins?I have a folding pool table similar to what I hope is the picture below, going free to a good home. It comes with a set of pool balls and a set of snooker ones, plus a couple of cues, triangles etc. By order of ...
@BizportEU As per my post, it's in Simeonovo. You'll need a good-size vehicle (see dimensions in my post) and it'll take two people to carry it down 30 or so garden steps; it weighs c53kg. 🙂 Read More
Anyone want a pool table? by JimJ
I hope this post is okay, Admins?I have a folding pool table similar to what I hope is the picture below, going free to a good home. It comes with a set of pool balls and a set of snooker ones, plus a couple of cues, triangles etc. By order of ...
@SimCityAT Who reads the Classifieds? Can't say I've ever bothered to...😁 Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@janemulberry That is correct procedure; it's actually not permitted for the notary, or any of their staff, to act as an interpreter for a transaction. I doubt anyone will question it but it IS irregular.. Read More
Anyone want a pool table?
I hope this post is okay, Admins?I have a folding pool table similar to what I hope is the picture below, going free to a good home. It comes with a set of pool balls and a set of snooker ones, plus a couple of cues, triangles etc. By order of ... Read More
Is Bulgaria still cheap? by Piccadilly
I’ve been coming to Bulgaria for years now and actually own a property here. However, with everything going on, I haven’t been back since 2022. I'm finally back for a few weeks, and I've really noticed that prices have gone up.It ...
Fuel here, last time I checked, is about the fourth-cheapest in the EU, and we're always in the bottom five price-wise, and sometimes the lowest. My car runs on LPG and even nowadays I tend to chuckle at the bill every time I fill her up... ... Read More
A FB Post This Morning by JimJ
Just to remind all pet-lovers in the group to NEVER let your guard down. Yet again, in our supposedly upmarket and genteel suburb of Sofia, someone decided that one of my neighbours shouldn't have a pet and threw poisoned food into his garden..his ...
@Jules999 Despite the rather "rose-tinted" notions of some folks, it's widespread in Bulgaria, and indeed the rest of the Balkans. I can't begin to imagine what possesses some "people" to do these things but unfortunately it's a fact of life here.. Read More
An FB Post This Morning
Just to remind all pet-lovers in the group to NEVER let your guard down. Yet again, in our supposedly upmarket and genteel suburb of Sofia, someone decided that one of my neighbours shouldn't have a pet and threw poisoned food into his garden..his ... Read More
Is Bulgaria still cheap? by Piccadilly
I’ve been coming to Bulgaria for years now and actually own a property here. However, with everything going on, I haven’t been back since 2022. I'm finally back for a few weeks, and I've really noticed that prices have gone up.It ...
@Piccadilly A good way to compare prices is to look at the Lidl online brochures for various countries to get a feel for how much the same, or comparable, items cost. The same goes for the other BG supermarkets which also operate in other countries ... Read More
Is Bulgaria still cheap? by Piccadilly
I’ve been coming to Bulgaria for years now and actually own a property here. However, with everything going on, I haven’t been back since 2022. I'm finally back for a few weeks, and I've really noticed that prices have gone up.It ...
That depends: if you think that €65,000 for a garage in Sofia is "cheap" then Bulgaria is still cheap...😮 Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@jeanmandredeix You'd certainly find it easier: KAT isn't renowned for having English-speaking clerks, and the queues are usually long anyway.. They'll give you one or two forms to fill out in Cyrillic. Make sure to take the bill of sale and get the ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
I didn't know AI agents went in for magic mushrooms! Interesting! Though I did read that psychedelics are back in fashion. - @janemulberry🍄😵 https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/ai-hallucinations Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@janemulberry Glib talker, forked tongue, white socks, models himself on Janus, regurgitates "slop" from an AI agent with a taste for magic mushrooms? 😎Am I getting warm? Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@Alexander Susdorf It's perfectly acceptable for ANY transaction under the equivalent of 10,000 leva to be in cash. However, the days of notaries breaking the law for transactions where they get absolutely zero extra for risking their livelihood are ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@janemulberry For a nice change, the Company Declaration doesn't need to be notarised - technically-speaking it doesn't even need the company stamp as the Company Certificate is the official recognition that he is an authorised person who can sign ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
That'd work fine. I'd suggest that he makes a Manager’s Authorization / Order (in Bulgarian) on plain paper, setting out his authorisation of himself to operate the company's vehicle (specifying make, model, VIN, and registration plate), ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
Sorry about the typos in my posts above - I have a "fancy" phone case which presses against the edges of the phone and plays havoc when I type. I have some new ones but the old one has numerous document and zipped compartments which are very handy ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
😯 It sounds extremely complicated!So, @JimJ, can I clarify -- is it possible to buy and register a vehicle while on yearly residence permits, it's just that the registration is tied to the permit and needs to be renewed when the residence ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
PS I would have suggested you ran rather than jogged but since I was talking about what I would do, I'm taking into account my one kackered and one recently- replaced knees...😎 Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
@JimJ €3000 bank transfer, €6000 cash. The seller has it tied to her company. The dealer said we would keep that number but as Ruse and Silistra are different provinces I think she is wrong. It’s not straightforward with car ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
PS You'll get two talons, a small one that you should always carry when driving, and a big one that you'll need when registering/MOT-ing/insuring etc it. You'll also need a vignette if you venture out of your local administrative area.ALWAYS have ... Read More
Any advice welcome on buying second hand car? by jeanmandredeix
Over the next few weeks we will be looking to purchase a second hand car. We will use a dealers as they help you with registration etc? I know the mileage is often clocked and we are just hoping to find a reliable runaround.Any tips on what to look ...
What is the price of the car? If it's 10,000 BGN (~€5,113) or more you cannot pay for it, wholly or partly, in cash; that includes a deposit.Are you a resident, ie the holder of a residence permit? If so, you can register the vehicle personally ... Read More
DN visa in Bulgaria by Mike J1234
Hey,I want to apply for the DN visa in January. I'm trying to figure out - as a freelancer I don't always have contract with those I work with (most of my income is with a company which we have no contract), is it ok to not show contract? My ...
@Mike J1234 You should also be aware that anti-Israeli sentiment is on the increase in the Balkans.. Read More
Having Electric meter moved by Jules999
HiHas anybody ever had their electric meter moved from within their garden area to a post outside their house? And if so what was the cost incurred please? It's really inconvenient having it within the property / garden area, not only if you own ...
The new generation of meters are readable remotely, so siting isn't so critical anymore. The "battery back-up" of many alarm systems just powers the outdoor siren (and usually a strobe) in case of power failure, deliberate or not; an internal ... Read More
Having Electric meter moved by Jules999
HiHas anybody ever had their electric meter moved from within their garden area to a post outside their house? And if so what was the cost incurred please? It's really inconvenient having it within the property / garden area, not only if you own ...
Yes, but it's also convenient for prospective burglars to turn off the power to your house and camera/alarm system too.. Read More
Rental nightmares in Bulgaria by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Finding a place to live in Bulgaria can be exciting, but it doesn’t always go as planned. From misleading listings and apartments that look nothing like the photos to strange landlords, hidden rules, unexpected roommates, or ...
Quite a number of landlords don't want their tenants officially registered at their property, and the landlord's under no obligation to permit, let alone facilitate, it. It's important for a tenant to specify that they wish to be registered at the ... Read More
Selling a property via company by Jules999
Hi Does anybody know if you sell your property via company ownership as the director ( my husband ) can the funds received be deposited into any Bulgarian bank account nominated by him? Or will the notary insist that he has a business bank account ...
Absolutely! Tax avoidance is common sense, a big difference from tax evasion (which of course is pretty much unheard of here in Bg...😎) Read More
Bad news...or is it? by JimJ
More BS from Novinite for your enjoyment...https://tinyurl.com/ytycbctm
Just to spell it out:Bulgaria has always fluctuated between #1 and #5 cheapest in EU pump prices; it's currently #4. The "percentage rise" in the Novinite report is correct but just applying simple arithmetic principles reveals that the conclusion ... Read More
Bad news...or is it? by JimJ
More BS from Novinite for your enjoyment...https://tinyurl.com/ytycbctm
What is BS? Facts from the European statititics? - @SimCityAT No - the BS in question relates to things that are indeed facts but presented in a way which misleads the average reader, apparently successfully. Can you not see the BS in that report? ... Read More
A Great Lady is gone by JimJ
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/aug/25/dolly-parton-country-singer-dead
@SimCityAT Because some of my esteemed readership has short attention spans, mayhap? 😎Alternatively, because shortened links work just as well and retain an element of mystery... 😁 Read More
Recommendation for family lawyer in Varna by chrichri13
I’m looking for a highly experienced family lawyer based in Varna who has strong expertise in German family law. The court hearings in my case are currently taking place at BalchikI would really appreciate recommendations from anyone who has ...
@chrichri13 Indeed so. But it may be possible to have the case moved to Sofia. Having been in the business, I can assure you of what you no doubt already know: you can have it good or you can have it cheap, but not both together. Read More
Recommendation for family lawyer in Varna by chrichri13
I’m looking for a highly experienced family lawyer based in Varna who has strong expertise in German family law. The court hearings in my case are currently taking place at BalchikI would really appreciate recommendations from anyone who has ...
Yes, but they're unsurprisingly all based in Sofia ..Ruskov & KollegenIgnatova & PartnersD. Vladimirov & Partners Read More
A Great Lady is gone by JimJ
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/aug/25/dolly-parton-country-singer-dead
@janemulberry Just don't forget Tom Cantor's very sensible advice... 😎https://tinyurl.com/4c5ckevv Read More
Roma family gone! by Kath948381
The Roma family who lived across the lane from me appear to have moved. They were in the house last winter , but they had a huge TV disc thing installed even before they got an inside bathroom or running water, now the TV disc had gone as have ...
@Kath948381 I wonder what's happened with you after your last visit to this site months ago - it'd be interesting to hear how the construction went/is going and what the new neighbours are like.. Read More
A Great Lady is gone
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/aug/25/dolly-parton-country-singer-dead Read More
Looking for a bucolic existence in uneventful BG? Think again... by JimJ
https://tinyurl.com/4pva2e29https://tinyurl.com/3vetfr8j
The White House -- I think he must have had his portrait done by the artist who did Dorian Grey's. - @janemulberry I have no problems with someone hanging him in the attic - or from a lamppost if they want to boost their street cred... 😁 Read More
Anyone here in Aheloy? by Laila Stancioff
Would love to meet
Welcome to The Madhouse! 😁There used to be quite a few Brits in Aheloy years ago but I think many of them sold up after the problems with some of the big developers and their shady practices. I hear it's a nice place but maybe very quiet ... Read More
Looking for a bucolic existence in uneventful BG? Think again... by JimJ
https://tinyurl.com/4pva2e29https://tinyurl.com/3vetfr8j
@janemulberry You have to remember that Bulgaria has the dubious distinction of consistently coming 27/27 (ie bottom) in the EU Corruption stakes, occasionally tying with Orban-era Hungary.It does bring a bit of suspense to my boring Sofia ... Read More
ET vs EOOD - did anyone here actually regret the choice? by Daniel Malbasic
I set companies up here for a living, so I know the theory. What I do not have is the lived side of it, and that is what I am after.On paper the ET is cheaper and faster and the EOOD gives you the liability separation. That is the textbook answer ...
@janemulberry He's definitely a real live person. 🙂 Read More
My real estate agent only shows me new buildings by JuilaOui
promoted by his agency, does it mean he is getting a 3% commission from me and another percentage from the builder ?
@JuilaOui Depending on what you're looking for, and where, it may be worth your while looking at the main auction site online. You can find information about it if you use this site's search function. Read More
Bad news...or is it?
More BS from Novinite for your enjoyment...https://tinyurl.com/ytycbctm Read More
ET vs EOOD - did anyone here actually regret the choice? by Daniel Malbasic
I set companies up here for a living, so I know the theory. What I do not have is the lived side of it, and that is what I am after.On paper the ET is cheaper and faster and the EOOD gives you the liability separation. That is the textbook answer ...
Most (all?) the members here who set up an EOOD did so in order to purchase property. If any of them were misguided/ill advised enough to plump for an ET for this purpose then they will certainly regret their choice, if they don't already. Apart ... Read More
ET vs EOOD - did anyone here actually regret the choice? by Daniel Malbasic
I set companies up here for a living, so I know the theory. What I do not have is the lived side of it, and that is what I am after.On paper the ET is cheaper and faster and the EOOD gives you the liability separation. That is the textbook answer ...
.You're the one who raised the point that a large number of people here own a company for the purpose of owning an apartment - @Daniel Malbasic I think that something's been lost in translation here. I said two things:"Most (all?) the members here ... Read More
Looking for a bucolic existence in uneventful BG? Think again... by JimJ
https://tinyurl.com/4pva2e29https://tinyurl.com/3vetfr8j
@janemulberry I read the local media and watch the news on the boob-tube - Bulgaria (and Greece) supply all the crazy details. Talking of which, do you remember the case of Zakynthos (aka "The Island of The Blind") some time ago, where a local ... Read More
ET vs EOOD - did anyone here actually regret the choice? by Daniel Malbasic
I set companies up here for a living, so I know the theory. What I do not have is the lived side of it, and that is what I am after.On paper the ET is cheaper and faster and the EOOD gives you the liability separation. That is the textbook answer ...
@Daniel Malbasic "The moment you register an EOOD and list yourself as the managing director, and you have no other insurance basis, you become legally required to self-insure — and you owe a monthly contribution on the minimum insurance base ... Read More
Looking for a bucolic existence in uneventful BG? Think again... by JimJ
https://tinyurl.com/4pva2e29https://tinyurl.com/3vetfr8j
@janemulberry Maybe you missed the Kapitan Andreevo connection? 😎 One wonders just what the Keystone Cops-style security guards busily trying to scatter hi-tech surveillance equipment in the verdant pastures thought they were achieving, and ... Read More
Looking for a bucolic existence in uneventful BG? Think again...
https://tinyurl.com/4pva2e29https://tinyurl.com/3vetfr8j Read More
My real estate agent only shows me new buildings by JuilaOui
promoted by his agency, does it mean he is getting a 3% commission from me and another percentage from the builder ?
Yes, it's common practice here. If you don't end up paying any extra then it's not really an issue. Many Bulgarians are loath to buy off-plan and prefer to wait until the project is finished and has Act 16; it's not unusual for off-plan properties ... Read More
Kite festival Asparuhovo Beach by Truetomyself
Good morning alltotaly random ask l would like to attend the kite festaval on asbarokovo beach on 29th august just rather not do this alone anyone interested in going maybe make new friends
@janemulberry Sounds just the ticket for a hippy chick who missed out on Woodstock and has been looking to get as high as a kite ever since - anybody spring to mind? 😎 Read More
ET vs EOOD - did anyone here actually regret the choice? by Daniel Malbasic
I set companies up here for a living, so I know the theory. What I do not have is the lived side of it, and that is what I am after.On paper the ET is cheaper and faster and the EOOD gives you the liability separation. That is the textbook answer ...
@Daniel Malbasic In over 20 years living here I've yet to come across anyone who formed an EOOD in order to purchase an apartment. That doesn't mean no one's ever done so but if they have they were singularly ill advised.Quite a bit of the important ... Read More
Building a wall around house[B]OT by flowerlillymay
@H Williams So whats going to eat you in Bulgaria ?
Englishman on the menu tonight, huh? - @janemulberry I'll leave that to you...😉 Read More
Building a wall around house[B]OT by flowerlillymay
@H Williams So whats going to eat you in Bulgaria ?
Oh dear! But I don't think that's a risk in most villages! - @janemulberry "Fee-fi-fo-fum...." 😎 Read More
ET vs EOOD - did anyone here actually regret the choice? by Daniel Malbasic
I set companies up here for a living, so I know the theory. What I do not have is the lived side of it, and that is what I am after.On paper the ET is cheaper and faster and the EOOD gives you the liability separation. That is the textbook answer ...
Most (all?) the members here who set up an EOOD did so in order to purchase property. If any of them were misguided/ill advised enough to plump for an ET for this purpose then they will certainly regret their choice, if they don't already.Apart from ... Read More
Beware of getting ill in BG!
I've mentioned this before but it's well worth keeping in mind...https://tinyurl.com/4mpc74f6 Read More