Living in Bulgaria’s Sofia

So, you’ve decided to throw caution to the wind and take up a very good property deal in Bulgaria, you cannot wait to pack up and move - but what can you expect to see and do and experience when you arrive in your new home country?  If the capital of Bulgaria Sofia is your destination you’re in for quite a cultural experience amidst the hustle and bustle of one of Europe’s oldest and most populace cities.

With more than 1.3 million people living in the metropolitan area of Sofia alone, this city is not exactly tiny!  It’s found on Bulgaria’s western side and is situated at the base of Vitosha Mountain - with beautiful views and a fairly comfortable continental climate, Sofia is noted as one Bulgarian city with a year-round tourist appeal but what’s it like actually living in Bulgaria’s Sofia?

The city itself is one of Europe’s oldest as stated; it dates back to the 8th century B.C. when the Thracians created a settlement there, today ancient landmarks coexist with very modern buildings in Sofia.  Sofia’s most notable landmarks include the St. Alexander Nevski Memorial Church which was built in the 1800s, the Church of St. Sofia and the National Archaeological Museum.

If you’re concerned that a lack of culture will plague you once you arrive in this eastern European country think again!  Sofia has a thriving cultural scene that includes a multitude of live theatrical performances, opera, ballet, an orchestra and a host of annual artistic events.  The city is also noted for its love of the cinema – living in Bulgaria in Sofia Britons and Americas feel particularly at home, with many English and American made films shown in their native language with Bulgarian subtitles.

As far as the weather is concerned, most Britons will find it is quite familiar as far as temperatures and patterns are concerned.  The city generally experiences its hottest month in August and it coldest in January but expect to feel all four seasons though.

Nightlife is not lacking in Sofia; the city is famed for its cafes, bars, nightclubs and lively spirit.  Expats will even find more than a few Irish pubs to help them feel right at home!  These pubs are frequented by locals and expats alike and the bar and café scene is strong in the early evening, and once it gets late much of the action moves into the many nightclubs.

Living in Bulgaria is a relatively new experience for British expatriates.  Although the expat community here is quickly growing, it is still relatively small compared to other parts of the world.  Be prepared for some cultural and language differences when moving here without a huge expat community to provide extra support.  But, if living in Bulgaria is a dream and Sofia is your destination of choice, you’re likely to find a city with a cosmopolitan feel that is easy to fall in love with.  Sofia’s size and international appeal make it a slightly different place to live in terms of atmosphere and internationalism than if you choose to buy property in Bulgaria and live in the countryside for example.

Living in Sofia is becoming the choice of many expatriates from all over the world.  With a bustling city atmosphere, very reasonable property prices and a populace that is generally quite friendly towards foreign residents, this city has what it takes to attract expats looking for a new life abroad.