About Bulgaria
Nature and culture
Located in South Eastern Europe, Bulgaria is bordered by Greece and Turkey to the South, Romania to the North and Macedonia and Serbia to the West. The beautiful Black Sea Coast forms its Eastern border. A country of outstanding natural beauty, the environment remains unspoilt and is incredibly varied. Relatively small country – a few hours drive will take you from the snow covered central Pirin mountain ranges to the long sandy beaches of the Black Sea Coast. There are many mineral springs which are the main source of the well-developed balneology and balneotherapy, SPA and rehabilitating centers.
Bulgaria’s rich culture is reflected in a vast number of architectural treasures. Throughout the country you will find ancient Greek sites, Roman amphitheatres, Byzantine churches and Thracian tombs. The country is home to 160 monasteries, 36 cultural centers and 40 000 listed archaeological monuments. Seven sites have achieved coveted place on the UNESCO world heritage list.
Climate
There are four seasons. Mild snowy winter, beautiful and green spring, warm and sunny summer, and golden autumn. We would describe it as diverse with something for everyone – from ski resorts located in the beautiful Pirin, Rila and Rodopi Mountains where you can enjoy the winter, to the Black Sea Riviera where you can enjoy the warm summer.
Cost of living in Bulgaria
Bulgaria has one of the lowest costs of living in Europe. A wonderful meal for 2 including wine will rarely exceed £10 GBP. The cost of 10 min journey in a taxi will only be about £2 GBP, a beer of good quality will cost 0.25p, house insurance is about £70-100 GBP per year for buildings and contents (depending on the size of the house). For electricity, when used for cooking, lighting or heating water, one pays about £30 GBP monthly. Local and national taxes for owning property vary greatly depending on the location and the size but for the capital (the most expensive area) expect to pay around £100 GBP per year for 2 bedrooms apartment.
The currency
The currency is called Lev:
£1=2.87 Levs
?1=1.95 Levs
Language
The official language is Bulgarian but in the major resorts and developments, which welcome and embrace tourists, majority of Bulgarians speak English as their second language.
Is it safe?
The crime rate is very low and statistics compare very favorably with all other European holiday destinations.
Prices of the properties
The prices of property in Bulgaria are considerably lower than those elsewhere in Europe. A brand new apartment right on the sea front in a popular holiday town can currently be purchased for about £40 000 GBP. Rural properties are being sold for even less than £10000 GBP. Buying property in Bulgaria is also great investment as prices are steadily increasing.
Political situation and long-term economic prospects
Bulgaria ceased being a communist country in 1989, shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Since then wide sweeping reforms have taken place. Already full member of NATO and EU. It is a fast growing market economy. The country is best known as a tourist destination for both summer and winter holidaymakers and for its wine making. The European Union is currently investing millions of Euros to help improve Bulgaria’s infrastructure and economy. Since the introduction of the currency board in 1997 Bulgaria has been a politically stable country with a developing economy. The conditions and guarantees for foreign investors have generated excellent business opportunities and investment growth potential.
