Zooldrool
English looking for information about Bulgaria
Forum posts
129
About me
English
Registration: 24 April 2020
Moving around in Bulgaria by stephen100gok
Been in Bulgaria for nearly 20 years and have been in 15 places to live and finally bought a house but renovating it proved to hard so I went on holiday and have not returned yet till I decide what to do and that has been 2 years now so I decided to ...
So you've lived in Bulgaria for 20 years, renting and moving between 15 places and only recently bought something?. Then the DIY reality of it made you go on holiday for 2 years 🤣...Sounds like your living the non commitment dream. Read More
John from Rositsa by janemulberry
Hi, I'm in England at the moment, and my husband just had a visit from a Englishman from Rositsa called John, married to a Bulgarian, who says he knows me from the forum. Apparently I speak more to his Bulgarian wife.I'm really sorry but I'm not ...
@janemulberry Sorry just being playful with it 😂. Hope y'all enjoying the beautiful sunshine. Read More
John from Rositsa by janemulberry
Hi, I'm in England at the moment, and my husband just had a visit from a Englishman from Rositsa called John, married to a Bulgarian, who says he knows me from the forum. Apparently I speak more to his Bulgarian wife.I'm really sorry but I'm not ...
Wait what?. Who jumped in the shower with your hubby?? Read More
Capital gains tax when selling property by Jules999
Apologies if this subject has been covered in a previous post. We are hoping to sell our house which is company owned. One agent informed us that there would be no tax to pay because we have lived in the property for over 10 years, and the most ...
I know nothing.....but I thought the "10 years" is only applicable to those who own property directly and not through a company.I think you can 1. Sell the asset or even 2. Sell all the shares in the company to the new buyer. Option 2 may be more ... Read More
What is the best bank for new comers by GuestPoster94290
In Sofia, Bulgaria ?
Maybe pair a traditional bulgarian bank account with Revolut or Icard...so you can have the best of both worlds. Read More
Medical treatment in BG by JimJ
Stand by for more reporting on hospital treatment here in BG fairly soon...I'm going in for a TKR (Total Knee Replacement) on Tuesday and should be out of hospital in about 6 days, following a bit of rehab. First challenge will be getting up those ...
@JimJ 77 steps!?. Do you live in a 6 story mansion? Read More
Cost of moving by Jules999
Hi It's been quite some years since we purchased a property in Bulgaria & we've never sold one. Could somebody advise what the current costs involved to buy are.......as well as the costs involved in selling, via an agent. Any recommendations ...
@Jules999 Oh super cool, well done for buying along time ago. Most people here seem very pessimistic. I think a local agent could do well for you as long as your clear on what price would be good for you (min price and stick to it). Read More
Cost of moving by Jules999
Hi It's been quite some years since we purchased a property in Bulgaria & we've never sold one. Could somebody advise what the current costs involved to buy are.......as well as the costs involved in selling, via an agent. Any recommendations ...
Jules, what's your plan to buy more houses or to sell the ones you previously bought? Read More
Congratulations Bulgaria by SimCityAT
Eurovision 2026: Bulgaria beats Israel to win song contest - as UK comes last with one point Bulgaria beats Israel to win song contest - as UK comes last with one point
@janemulberry Thanks. I don't normally bet, used to just do it once a year on the Grand National and then replaced that with Eurovision 🤣. I am expecting to hear this song all summer long when we are at the black sea.....but I will put up ... Read More
Congratulations Bulgaria by SimCityAT
Eurovision 2026: Bulgaria beats Israel to win song contest - as UK comes last with one point Bulgaria beats Israel to win song contest - as UK comes last with one point
@cyberescue1 Haha, i didn't think about that - will be blasting constantly on the black sea this summer. I can't wait! Read More
Congratulations Bulgaria by SimCityAT
Eurovision 2026: Bulgaria beats Israel to win song contest - as UK comes last with one point Bulgaria beats Israel to win song contest - as UK comes last with one point
I meant the odds were at 60-1 a couple of days before the show. The odds dropped alot during the show. Maybe it was even higher last week who knows, I heard friends of friends who made some very big bets.I made over 1k (from my modest 20 quid punt). ... Read More
Up the hairy mountain.. by JimJ
A bit of excitement in the local news this evening - a tourist was killed by a bear just above us on the mountain... 😥
@JimJ So you are saying it was a "bear".....how convenient for you. Read More
Congratulations Bulgaria by SimCityAT
Eurovision 2026: Bulgaria beats Israel to win song contest - as UK comes last with one point Bulgaria beats Israel to win song contest - as UK comes last with one point
A superb win...they had 60-1 odds on betfair on Thursday evening. Dara was amazing. Read More
Where should I buy for boating? by Zooldrool
I want to buy a house by a river or lake for boating. Any recommendations?. What about the danube, are there houses that have yards right on the river bank?. Anyone here have a boat?.
@JimJ Good advice. Something cheap to put a small prefab was the idea. Read More
Where should I buy for boating? by Zooldrool
I want to buy a house by a river or lake for boating. Any recommendations?. What about the danube, are there houses that have yards right on the river bank?. Anyone here have a boat?.
@gwynj Thanks this is good advice. We already have a house on the black sea, in a resort town (10 mins walk to the beach and bars and restaurants etc). But I fancy getting a small place by a lake or the danube as well. Read More
Where should I buy for boating?
I want to buy a house by a river or lake for boating. Any recommendations?. What about the danube, are there houses that have yards right on the river bank?. Anyone here have a boat?. Read More
Suggestions for a short break? by jeanmandredeix
Has anyone got a suggestion for an area for a short break on the coast? Somewhere that is quiet and polar opposite to Sunny Beach? Would like to do a short break with the dog before summer arrives. Thanks.
@JimJ Yes the Southern Neighborhood of Sofia is very popular for second home owners and Kavala-grad. Read More
Suggestions for a short break? by jeanmandredeix
Has anyone got a suggestion for an area for a short break on the coast? Somewhere that is quiet and polar opposite to Sunny Beach? Would like to do a short break with the dog before summer arrives. Thanks.
@JimJ You must be talking about your elite friends from Sofia. Read More
Suggestions for a short break? by jeanmandredeix
Has anyone got a suggestion for an area for a short break on the coast? Somewhere that is quiet and polar opposite to Sunny Beach? Would like to do a short break with the dog before summer arrives. Thanks.
Byala and Obzor are also great and quieter that Sunny Beach and others. Read More
Suggestions for a short break? by jeanmandredeix
Has anyone got a suggestion for an area for a short break on the coast? Somewhere that is quiet and polar opposite to Sunny Beach? Would like to do a short break with the dog before summer arrives. Thanks.
@jeanmandredeix I presume the polar opposite to sunny beach would be Sinemorets or some of the beaches around there. Read More
International driver's license alongside my Florida license by PepitoFiesta
Hello Bulgaria! I am a US citizen living in Bulgaria with a Bulgarian residency card. I have a Florida driver's license but I do not want to exchange it for a Bulgarian license. I read somewhere that I can get an international driver's license ...
@JimJ I guess they are talking about "grey areas" where technically you might be treated as resident in both countries.I have two permanent residence visas and now live in a third country. It's a bit of a mind field in the grey zone. Read More
International driver's license alongside my Florida license by PepitoFiesta
Hello Bulgaria! I am a US citizen living in Bulgaria with a Bulgarian residency card. I have a Florida driver's license but I do not want to exchange it for a Bulgarian license. I read somewhere that I can get an international driver's license ...
Doesn't sound a legit way to do it. Obviously the bad advice, that you shouldn't do, would be to declare it lost in the U.S and get a replacement and then surrender the "lost one". Read More
Remote US job question by PepitoFiesta
Hello Bulgaria! Are any of you working US jobs remotely while living in Bulgaria? I was working with a US company remotely from Bulgaria when I first moved to Bulgaria, but my contract ended and the company I was with stopped hiring remotely. I am ...
I don't. I got the impression that most were already working for their companies in the U.S and then negotiated with management to go remote. Read More
Remote US job question by PepitoFiesta
Hello Bulgaria! Are any of you working US jobs remotely while living in Bulgaria? I was working with a US company remotely from Bulgaria when I first moved to Bulgaria, but my contract ended and the company I was with stopped hiring remotely. I am ...
Hey Pepito, I can't help but have met a few couples in Bulgaria who had remote US jobs ( very jealous :). It might be easier to just look at jobs in the U.S that are fully remote and try your luck.As the salaries are generally a lot higher than in ... Read More
Lyubimets / Svilengrad by Kit2001
Hi, We now have a small car that we keep at our place near Ivaylovgrad - however our initial plan to find parking in Sofia is turning out to be more troublesome and expensive than anticipated, so this year we caught the train from Sofia to our ...
@gwynj Your probably right. I guess it depends how often you fly back and forth. Read More
Lyubimets / Svilengrad by Kit2001
Hi, We now have a small car that we keep at our place near Ivaylovgrad - however our initial plan to find parking in Sofia is turning out to be more troublesome and expensive than anticipated, so this year we caught the train from Sofia to our ...
Not sure of your budget..but looking on Alo there is currently a parking space in Sofia in Druzhba 1 currently for 12k euro.... (Nearest Metro is 2 stops from airport). Also possibly a 30-40 ish min walk. Read More
Lyubimets / Svilengrad by Kit2001
Hi, We now have a small car that we keep at our place near Ivaylovgrad - however our initial plan to find parking in Sofia is turning out to be more troublesome and expensive than anticipated, so this year we caught the train from Sofia to our ...
Have you looked at Imot or Alo (.BG). Both have the ability to search for garages or parking spots. You might be able to find a garage in a smaller town on the railway line for around 5-6k euros. I also looked out of interest, and there was even a ... Read More
Bulgarian Dance Events in the NE? by jeanmandredeix
Can anyone tell me how I can find out about events? There is nothing in my village that happens and Silistra is probably closest.Restaurants that have Bulgarian dancing or village events? When I get a bit better organised here I would like to join a ...
This is from my AI buddy....in SilistraLight Force Dance Studio: A creative space focused on hip-hop and urban dance styles located at the Pirotska 5 Event Center. They hold regular group sessions, such as their Junior 2 group which meets every ... Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
@janemulberryIn Dublin the Irish naturalisation process time time is currently around 12 months or so. So 5 years + 1 to receive an EU passport in hand.Brits also have it a lot easier with naturalisation in Ireland, just a simple points based system ... Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
Probably simpler, for British nationals, to just move to Ireland and get an EU passport after 5 years. You can claim child benefits and others in Ireland as soon as you arrive. No need for any visas or ID cards etc. You have the right to stay ... Read More
Welcome to the Wild East... by JimJ
Five EU governments found to ‘consistently’ dismantle rule of lawRead more >https://tinyurl.com/566pux6j
It's not wild in my house. Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
@SimCityATIt's seems inevitable.I left to the UK for the middle east just after the Brexit vote and been moving around the globe since. Read More
Got your Bug Out Bags ready? by JimJ
There's a lot of discussion in Bulgarian social media groups at the moment about the current situation in Iran, and the threats to attack Europe if Our Glorious Leaders ever make up their minds to support one side or the other. Given their ...
@krisEtAl Haha well when you put it like that. I have permanent residence there and it's always a little slice of heaven when I go for winter sun. Read More
Got your Bug Out Bags ready? by JimJ
There's a lot of discussion in Bulgarian social media groups at the moment about the current situation in Iran, and the threats to attack Europe if Our Glorious Leaders ever make up their minds to support one side or the other. Given their ...
I would run to South America. Read More
Vacationing in Bulgaria. by Samsontesh
I live in BC, Canada.I want to know about life in Bulgaria for expats.TIA.
What is life like in BC?. Read More
Post or Courier from UK (Wales) to rural (South East) Bulgaria by Kit2001
Hi, We bought our house a few years ago (sadly just after Brexit due to delays and get out once or twice per year. We are VERY slowly fixing things - we paid for a new roof last year, but are hoping to do a lot of the work ourselves.The house is ...
@cyberescue1 I send a lot of UK food stuff on the lorry, so always have a fully stocked cupboard of stuff from home if I crave it. Last time we were on holiday in belgium I bought good beer from some local breweries and dropped it off at the local ... Read More
Post or Courier from UK (Wales) to rural (South East) Bulgaria by Kit2001
Hi, We bought our house a few years ago (sadly just after Brexit due to delays and get out once or twice per year. We are VERY slowly fixing things - we paid for a new roof last year, but are hoping to do a lot of the work ourselves.The house is ...
We do this all the time via local bulgarian food stores in the UK I don't know where you are in Wales but I see there is one in Cardiff "Euro Food and Zaeka" that appear to do baggage. Just go on Google maps and find a local bulgarian food ... Read More
Swimming Pool by Zooldrool
Anyone got experience of putting a pool into a house in the center of a city.Looking on Google maps it doesn't look like there are any of the other houses in the center that have a pool. So we could be the first. Anyone know if there are any special ...
@SimCityAT Yes exactly. We have a raised decking, so can integrate it and make it look like it fits. Read More
Swimming Pool by Zooldrool
Anyone got experience of putting a pool into a house in the center of a city.Looking on Google maps it doesn't look like there are any of the other houses in the center that have a pool. So we could be the first. Anyone know if there are any special ...
Thanks for the advice. I did think we might be subject to other permits/planning. Out plan is a small above ground pool as we have raised decking coming off from the back of the house. I will explore further on if I can do something smaller to avoid ... Read More
Swimming Pool
Anyone got experience of putting a pool into a house in the center of a city.Looking on Google maps it doesn't look like there are any of the other houses in the center that have a pool. So we could be the first. Anyone know if there are any special ... Read More
Wales to Bulgaria via France, Italy? by jeanmandredeix
When we do our return trip to north east Bulgaria I am thinking about doing France, Italy as I absolutely hate driving and staying in Germany. Has anyone done this route? I appreciate its longer but I prefer French roads but have no idea what ...
What about Austrians do you not like them also?. If not try to do the 5 hours straight through German and then stop in Salzburg for a nice break. Read More
Gorna Oryahovitsa Airport
Hi All,Just catching up on the news I missed this year and saw this article:https://seenews.com/news/bulgarias-gorna-oryahovitsa-airport-eyes-passenger-service-report-1285744You think this could happen?. Could we be catching a Ryanair direct to ... Read More
Buying a car in Bulgaria: private owner vs dealer? by sfriggieri75
Hi everyone,I’m planning to buy a car in Bulgaria and would like to understand the difference (financially and procedurally) between buying: 1. from a private owner (car already has plates), and 2. from a dealer (no plates).Cost of vehicle is ...
I am also interested, also see a lot of "direct imports" for sale. What does these mean for registering etc. Read More
Documents needed to renew residency card. by Melvyn Dawson
Hi, I have lived permanently I Bulgaria for 20 years and still have ask this.i have a bank account ,driving licence,residency permit etc. I can remember most of the documents I submitted for my last 5 year residency card but can someone who has ...
I actually found the process straightforward and the "10 year" residency is a dream. I flash it every time I fly all around Europe (along with my British passport), it gets scanned and I get welcomed back home to the EU. Read More
There's a turn up for the books! by JimJ
The new prices of tickets on Sofia's public transport networks have been announced ahead of Euro Day on January 1st. Amazingly, they're all going DOWN! Admittedly, not by much but it's certainly a good start...
I saw this...they had to do this. Give it a year or so and they will go up. Read More
Managing meals in Bulgaria by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Managing meals day-to-day can sometimes be a real mental challenge, even more so when you land in a new environment, with different schedules, habits or ingredients. How do you manage your meal routine as an expat in Bulgaria? We ...
I eat out nearly every day... normally a shopska for starters and then some meat dish for mains. Normally washed down with whatever is on tap Sometimes I will also order those fried cheese and blueberry things. So not much stress to manage, I ... Read More
Pre Brexit Residency Card Renewal by cyberescue1
So, the time has come to renew my 5 year, EU, pre Brexit, residency card and obtain a 10 year permanent residency one.... Well, that's what I thought, but bureaucracy in Bulgaria reigns...I received my existing card in October 2020, but the expiry ...
@JimJ The last account I heard about the interview (oral part) was that the candidate introduced themselves in Bulgarian and had a basic conversation, but when they started to struggle the interviewer switched to English to ask further questions ... Read More
Pre Brexit Residency Card Renewal by cyberescue1
So, the time has come to renew my 5 year, EU, pre Brexit, residency card and obtain a 10 year permanent residency one.... Well, that's what I thought, but bureaucracy in Bulgaria reigns...I received my existing card in October 2020, but the expiry ...
@JimJ Well it's multiple choice and all the answers are in the paragraph or two of text shown. I tried a sample paper online and nearly just passed (and I really don't know the language, just enough useful words to be able to guess the answer. Just ... Read More
Different Regions in Bulgaria - How do you decide?
I was just reading this article (below) on the different economics of the different regions in Bulgaria and wondered how people here picked their place?Was it just ok price/availability or a feeling?.Have many gone for one area and then moved after ... Read More
Pre Brexit Residency Card Renewal by cyberescue1
So, the time has come to renew my 5 year, EU, pre Brexit, residency card and obtain a 10 year permanent residency one.... Well, that's what I thought, but bureaucracy in Bulgaria reigns...I received my existing card in October 2020, but the expiry ...
Next step is citizenship....(well for those that are EU citizens or married to Bulgarian citizens etc. otherwise you have to give up your current passport to get the Bulgarian one). Read More
Pre Brexit Residency Card Renewal by cyberescue1
So, the time has come to renew my 5 year, EU, pre Brexit, residency card and obtain a 10 year permanent residency one.... Well, that's what I thought, but bureaucracy in Bulgaria reigns...I received my existing card in October 2020, but the expiry ...
Sorry to hear about the hassle!. When I replaced mine, in migration in Yambol they really couldn't have been more flexible and accommodating. They were amazing!!. Read More
Has food cost increaed massively? by jeanmandredeix
Is it me or has food costs increased over past few months? I monitored my food costs on our last 6 week visit and we have only been here two weeks so far and they seem a hell of a lot higher.
I bought a crunchie bar the other day in Canary Wharf and nearly had a heart attack when I saw the cost. The world has gone crazy. Read More
Almost 20,000 people lost their lives on EU roads in 2024. by SimCityAT
Almost 20,000 people lost their lives on EU roads in 2024.Today, on the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, we say: every victim is one too many.
Put up speed cameras everywhere and follow through on fines etc. The only way to change attitudes over next 10 years or so. Read More
Streaming platforms by SimCityAT
I've come across Fawesome TV, and it is free; it is perfectly legal. It is paid for by advertisements, but if you have an ad blocker on your computer, you might skip the ads. There is even a British section.
There is also the "opportunity" to pay less for the big streaming brands if you have subscriptions from countries that are a lot cheaper. Read More
The War Has Started! by JimJ
What a load of rubbish....😎https://tinyurl.com/3h456jjx
@JimJJust raid that sofa, find 60 leva and get a ticket on a land machine to Istanbul Airport. Then choose any air machine you want to take you directly to the tropics. Read More
The War Has Started! by JimJ
What a load of rubbish....😎https://tinyurl.com/3h456jjx
Time to move and find your tropical paradise my friend. Read More
My Experience of Bulgaria Never go to Bulgaria by GuestPoster357
NEVER go to Bulgaria you have been warned 1. Most EXPENSIVE Country in Europe2. Bulgarian Drivers are Devils 3. Groceries are 40% more expensive than Asda UK4. Weather 45 from May to September5. Dogs The Villages are full of dogs and Bulgarians ...
I love this post .... It great that the first point of the very original message was..... the most expensive country in Europe 🤣🤣 Read More
Euro adoption by mikefl69
What do you think about euro adoption starting 2026?Is it going to make prices to go up?
I think prices rising and migration cant be blamed on the Euro. Look at the non Euro countries. Prices and migration have risen across the EU full stop, regardless of the colour of the bank notes. Read More
Request for Factory Visit – TESY LTD, Shumen, Bulgaria by behrooz ghasemi
I am looking for someone to visit this factory and I will pay for it in full.TESY LTD, Blvd Madara 48, 9701 Shumen, BulgariaOr if you know someone, please introduce them to me.If anyone can contact me
Is it a good factory?. What does it make? Read More
Another Perspective on BG Joining the Eurozone by JimJ
Bulgarian Economist Warns Euro Adoption Could Sink Bulgaria Faster Than Greecehttps://tinyurl.com/ywypzx72
What day you?. Do you agree? Read More
Turkish Shopping Trips by Zooldrool
Those living near the boarder do you take regular regular trips to Turkey for cheaper produce and other essentials?. I am curious, as prices rise in Bulgaria are more people living near the boarder making regular shopping trips?
@frazer2022 This is what I was looking for.I was wondering if petrol/gas prices was a lot cheaper and supermarkets etc so much that it made sense to pop over the boarder for the big shop and to fill up the car (a regular pilgrimage to Sok ... Read More
Turkish Shopping Trips
Those living near the boarder do you take regular regular trips to Turkey for cheaper produce and other essentials?. I am curious, as prices rise in Bulgaria are more people living near the boarder making regular shopping trips? Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
@jeanmandredeix The ones that I've watched seem to have got D visas (via trade representative). Not sure if this then allows them to work as you say. Sure they are not raking it in either way. Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
@james1992main Well it's not really the "best" but it's a very cool city for its size. 1. Large pedestrian area with independent shops leading to a beautiful park.2. Has a lot to do for a 60k ish city and feels like infrastructure is being upgraded ... Read More
Thinking to move to Bulgaria by james1992main
We are seriously considering moving from the uk to Bulgaria and doing research and looking Yambol looks suitable for us. I am from a farming background along with being a Shotblaster/painter and very handy with my hands as far as woodwork goes. ...
Yambol city is the best. Read More
Question for Admin(s) by JimJ
I float around a few of the other Country sections on this site and my impression is that the Bulgaria one is one of the most active, despite the number of foreign immigrants here being rather lower than in many other EU countries. Am I right in my ...
Bulgaria for the win!. Let's all have some rakia and juice to celebrate. Read More
Mass immigration by Aldridge26
Hello I am moving to Bulgaria in January of 2026 leaving Canada. I would like to know if mass immigration is a problem there compared to the Western world.Thank you.
Sometimes on a Sunday you can stumble across a marauding horde of brits haggling over some old tat out of the back of a car boot ("trunk"). Apart from that, it's mostly locals everywhere. Read More
Long Life to Everyone! by JimJ
Well, yesterday was my 76th birthday (I can't believe how quickly those years have passed!) so I've now comfortably exceeded the average male Bulgarian's life expectancy of 71.9 years. Now I have to pass the same milestone for female Bulgarians, ...
Happy Birthday 🎈 🎂 🎈. If you haven't already, don't forget to dig up all that leva in your garden and raid the mattress before the Euro comes. Read More
The pollution caused by old diesel cars in Bulgaria has made me sick by GoingDutch
Just as a warning to other foreigners looking to move to Bulgaria. The air quality is very bad because of the pollution caused by old German diesel cars and fossil fuel burning in winter for heating. The old diesel cars, often the exact types ...
@mickgIt will probably get worse before it gets better, make sure your sheets are clean. Remember you are only around 200km from the current, first stage, of the war. Read More
Glass Blocks by Ozzy183a
Hi all,Can anyone recommend or direct me to a shop that sells internal clear and coloured glass blocks as can’t seem to find anything. Thanks Ozzy
What's the vision Oz?. Colour and location of this glass wall...we are all trying to visualize it. Read More
Independence Day by JimJ
Today is an important National Holiday here in Bulgaria, so let me greet everyone using the words that you can use to impress your own neighbours and friends:Честит Ден на ...
@JimJ Sounds perfect. We are in our other "cheap" second home at the moment, so will raise a Colombian beer to Bulgaria later. Read More
Independence Day by JimJ
Today is an important National Holiday here in Bulgaria, so let me greet everyone using the words that you can use to impress your own neighbours and friends:Честит Ден на ...
@JimJ Are you dressed in a full traditional outfit, whilst waving the flag? Read More
English Speaking Building Trades (Who work nationally in Bulgaria) by S25 - Sean
Hello, how do and good day to you. Hope all is well in expat land where ever you may be right now!First off, for members who already know who I am but don't recognise the dog image. I removed the silly castle pic and put my youtube logo. It's more ...
@JimJ I was thinking small scale, presuming someone already has a car and they are close to the boarder etc. Was wondering if anyone does this to pick up small items cheaper. Read More
How to get my stuff from UK to Bulgaria by wendygould2
Hello can anyone please tell me how easy it is to take all my stuff from UK to Bulgaria? Which is best way id like to take most of my belongings over there. Thank you any advice would be appreciated .
We use our local bulgarian food store to ship stuff back and forth when we need it, such a good service (I feel like it's more of a community service than a business). However, not sure if it's the best for moving all your stuff in one go. Worth it ... Read More
The Harsh Reality Renovating In Bulgaria - New buyers beware by S25 - Sean
Welcome to the newbies who need to read this cautionary tale, to the veterans who roll their eyes with a smile after their own experiences and a light apology if some of this comes across as a rant or complaining. I'm about to share my experiences ...
I know it's not a fair comparison, but I have been looking at Ukrainian village houses (out of interest, as you do). The prices appear to be like Bulgaria in the early 2000s. Even just a few meters across from the Romanian boarder you can see houses ... Read More
The Harsh Reality Renovating In Bulgaria - New buyers beware by S25 - Sean
Welcome to the newbies who need to read this cautionary tale, to the veterans who roll their eyes with a smile after their own experiences and a light apology if some of this comes across as a rant or complaining. I'm about to share my experiences ...
I agree with gwynj. Prices have shot up so much in Bulgaria over the years. I don't know what you are trying to achieve, but for your budget it might have been better to have gone for a country that is 10-15 years behind Bulgaria.Budget would have ... Read More
Anybody live in Sunny Beach? by Annaprg
Hello. Anybody live in Sunny Beach? I saw apartment i like and would like to move down there, but do not know anyone. I am from New York. Summers probably very nice there, but what about winters and other sizons? How to meet people, and is there ...
@SimCityAT I would add Ukraine to that list. That budget could almost stretch to a small apartment in a trendy neighborhood in Kiev. Read More
English Speaking Building Trades (Who work nationally in Bulgaria) by S25 - Sean
Hello, how do and good day to you. Hope all is well in expat land where ever you may be right now!First off, for members who already know who I am but don't recognise the dog image. I removed the silly castle pic and put my youtube logo. It's more ...
Are building materials cheaper in Turkey? Read More
Bulgarian royal family by mickeyhart
Just binged this cracking podcast all about who killed the Bulgarian king. The Russians get the blame then the nazis then the finger gets pointed at Churchill.Never had a clue the Bulgarian royals are realated to our lot. Has anyone been to Varna ...
@mickeyhartHe was a very nice guy, very down to earth and friendly. It was on a Wizzair flight!. I just finished the podcast, thanks so much for the recommendation, was excellent. Read More
Apply for Bulgarian citizenship by shahparmar0
I am a Canadian citizen, and I married my wife, who is a Bulgarian citizen. I would now like to apply for Bulgarian citizenship, but I have never lived in Bulgaria. Am i eligible to apply
Would be interested to get the answer here. For a spouse of a Bulgarian is it 3 years (from first residence visa) to be eligible for permanent residence and then another 3 years (of holding permanent residence) before you can apply for citizenship?. ... Read More
Bulgarian royal family by mickeyhart
Just binged this cracking podcast all about who killed the Bulgarian king. The Russians get the blame then the nazis then the finger gets pointed at Churchill.Never had a clue the Bulgarian royals are realated to our lot. Has anyone been to Varna ...
Awesome thanks for recommendation. We went to see a play on it recently in London. It's on in NYC at the moment:https://nystagereview.com/2024/05/06/the-brief-life-mysterious-death-of-boris-iii-king-of-bulgaria-crown-of-thorns/Fascinating history. ... Read More
Driving from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv by GuestPoster1102
Hi all, Will be in Bulgaria for the very first time in Feb and planning to go from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv (and back) by a rental car - thinks it's the easiest as we have a 1.5 years baby. One question is, how's the driving from Sofia to Plovdiv, ...
@PurpleRon The tailgating always feels so much worse driving between Sofia and Plovdiv, or maybe that's just my experience?. South of Plovdiv, it starts to calm down and become a more enjoyable drive (other than the german cars, in the summer, ... Read More
Trustable lawyer by Alex1959
Dear friends,We are a middle aged couple looking for Bulgarian property to buy and live. It may be in Varna ,Sofia or Stara Zagora.We need good and trustable lawyer who will help us (check all utilities bills and ownership documents, prepare all ...
@JimJ Did you try any of the legal 500 firms in Bulgaria?. Read More
Leshnikovo by leamnffc
Hello all, just wondering if anyone lives in or around Leshnikovo, south bulgaria. thanks
I had a quick google myself...noticed a place called "the deaf stones" near by. I've never heard of this place before, it looks v.cool. Definitely adding this to the road trip bucket list, if I am ever in the area. Read More
Swimming Pool Contractors
Anyone have a good recommendation for a swimming pool contractor?. We are looking to have a small plunge pool installed around the Yambol area. Thanks. Read More
Where to consider moving for a more self sufficient lifestyle ? by ButterMyPaws19
Hi, we are English (hubby and I) early retirees, who had moved to France pre brexit but are now looking to move to Bulgaria for a new adventure. We moved to rural France for a quieter, more self sufficient, as off grid as possible, life but it is ...
Just for interest...here is a search on Alo.bg for all houses currently for sale across Bulgaria which have yards above 4000sqm. https://www.alo.bg/obiavi/imoti-prodajbi/kashti-vili/?p[423]=4000_&order_by=price-asc Read More
Property Bubble by Adriana Petrova
hi all, when /if at all/ do you think prices will crash?
The price rise in Sofia is impressive. Although the next generation is going to really suffer. Also the gap between the big cities and the villages is growing bigger and bigger. Read More
My Experience of Bulgaria Never go to Bulgaria by GuestPoster357
NEVER go to Bulgaria you have been warned 1. Most EXPENSIVE Country in Europe2. Bulgarian Drivers are Devils 3. Groceries are 40% more expensive than Asda UK4. Weather 45 from May to September5. Dogs The Villages are full of dogs and Bulgarians ...
1. Factually Incorrect. 2. It is right up there for road traffic fatalities, which does worry me. 3. Asda in UK is 40% cheaper??.....Billa these days seems to be quite pricey and I do agree some items are cheaper in UK supermarkets vs Bulgarian ... Read More
Exchanging Long Term Residence Visa for Permanent by Zooldrool
Has anyone recently exchanged their EU (or Article 50) long term residence visa for permanent (i.e after 5 years)?.If so I would love to know what information was required?. Did you have to show bills, entry/exit to country or other evidence that ...
@gwynj Thanks so much for the reply and the links. Very interesting!. My 5 years is up next year so will hopefully get my permanent residence then. I agree the only way to really know if it's transferable to another EU country is to try one day. ... Read More
Exchanging Long Term Residence Visa for Permanent by Zooldrool
Has anyone recently exchanged their EU (or Article 50) long term residence visa for permanent (i.e after 5 years)?.If so I would love to know what information was required?. Did you have to show bills, entry/exit to country or other evidence that ...
@gwynjHey, I was just looking into this again and saw the below article...https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=legissum:l23034Are you still sure you can't use your PR in Bulgaria to move to another European country, if you so wished? Read More
Going to live in Sliven by zwgilaki
Hello everybody, As I m moving in Sliven next summer, I would like to know if there is an area near sliven which is more safe to live and grow up a child or a protected area in Sliven. I am not a bulgarian and I am a little bit scared about my ...
Is your husband from Silven?. Will you live in the center or a neighborhood next to the center. I've been a couple of times and always found it to be as sleepy/idyllic as any other Bulgarian town of that size.In terms of alternatives you could stay ... Read More
Colombian Citizenship by PhilCo58
Anyone considering applying for Citizenship should be aware that the requirements changed in September. Previously the requirements were dictated under : Ley 43 de 1993Now details are dictated under:Ley 2332 de 2023 ...
@nico peligro Is tax different for citizens vs non citizens? Read More
TV usage and access by Kazman
HiAre there any streaming companies you can watch both in the uk and Bulgaria? Netflix no longer allow this so we're stuck with no tv in Bulgaria at present. msny thanks
@KazmanWhen you say it no longer allows you to do this, are you trying to watch it at the same time im different locations?. Netflix works fine for me wherever I am traveling. Read More
TV usage and access by Kazman
HiAre there any streaming companies you can watch both in the uk and Bulgaria? Netflix no longer allow this so we're stuck with no tv in Bulgaria at present. msny thanks
@cyberescue1I've used this as well. Great to have live UK tv. Read More
Is Colombia becoming less friendly towads expats!! by HutchX2020
Cancellaria is deliberly delaying visas aplications in order for you to break the time continuity in Colombia so they don't give out residency visas!!!There are tons of stories on expat groups recently of massive delays of visas taking up 75 days to ...
@cccmediaIsn't the story that they got the R visa after their initial purchase (under the old law), but when they came to transfer their old R to an R covered under the new law they couldn't? (As the minimum threshold had changed). Read More
House in yambol by Harry1044
Hi everyone I'm needing advice myself and partner bought property from real estates bulgaria in yambol about 17 years ago. I went back over about 10yrs ago .they gave me the keys .. my partner died so I lost intrest in this property and sort of gave ...
You will be impressed with how Yambol town has changed, the center and the park are looking good these days! Read More
Rough cost for new build by Zooldrool
We have a building plot in the center of a town that we bought 4 years ago.We would like to start building a small (basic) house to use for holidays but worried that building costs (and cost of materials) seem very high at the moment.?.Looking at ...
You make an interesting point. A lot of expats in Bulgaria appear to go for the village houses and "good life experience" ...in the beautiful nature. I love visiting the villages, so peaceful. However, I think that the remote villages vs city/town ... Read More
Rough cost for new build by Zooldrool
We have a building plot in the center of a town that we bought 4 years ago.We would like to start building a small (basic) house to use for holidays but worried that building costs (and cost of materials) seem very high at the moment.?.Looking at ...
Thanks for the very detailed reply. Your rough guess is what I was thinking....around 800-900 euro per m2.To reduce the costs, I am exploring splitting the plot in half and building two identical houses and selling one of them. It has a street on ... Read More
Rough cost for new build?
We have a building plot in the center of a town that we bought 4 years ago.We would like to start building a small (basic) house to use for holidays but worried that building costs (and cost of materials) seem very high at the moment.?.Looking at ... Read More
Homeschooling Veliko Tarnovo region by doreenherrfurth
Hello, we are a family with three kids. We are going to move to bulgaria in april. Since two years we are doing homeschooling with our kids. They are 6, 9 and 12. Are there other familys that do the same. We are looking forward to have nice ...
We are thinking of moving to Bulgaria but looking at international private schools in Sofia or Plovdiv. Did you look at the local schools and instead decided to do home schooling?. Read More