About Bulgaria...
Bulgaria, this small picturesque country, approximately the size of Wales is situated at the "crossroads" linking Europe with Asia. It is one of the oldest nations in Europe; fourteen centuries of existence seem to have been almost entirely dedicated to long struggles for national freedom and independence. Evidence of ancient civilisations and the great people who have been part of the turbulent history combined with many historical monuments and buildings make Bulgaria a fascinating country to visit and investigate.
Since 1989 when the communist totalitarian regime was overthrown Bulgaria has been undergoing great economic and democratic changes, now having one of the fastest growing economies in Europe. More and more foreign investment companies are appearing in Bulgaria, in 2006 alone 10 new real estate funds were listed on the London stock exchange, all an indication of the economic and political stability of this emerging eastern European state.
A nation of intensely proud, passionate, warm friendly people who can rightly boast of their diversely beautiful country. Much of Bulgaria is still deeply forested, interspersed with luscious verdant valleys, high mountain ranges and flat cultivated plains. The main cities of Sofia, Plovid, Varna and Burgos have a cosmopolitan atmosphere, whilst the people in the rural towns and villages live as they have for centuries, still using oxen to plough their fields and going to market by horse and cart. Most produce is grown on land that has never been polluted by artificial fertilisers and insecticides, unavailable previously and unaffordable now.
The temperate climate provides four distinct seasons, warm spring when the abundance of wild flowers, some of which we have not seen in rural England for many years, and the wide variety of blossoming trees create a beautiful vista. Long hot summers, when every garden and balcony bursts into bloom with an array of flowering plants, give way to mild autumns with its palate of changing colours. Winter is short and crisp, when most Bulgarians take time out to make their next years supply of Rakia. Outdoor living, eating and entertaining is every Bulgarians favourite pass-time, most homes have an outdoor eating area with large wood-fired barbecue and all restaurants and cafés extend into lovely courtyards.
Property prices and the cost of living are probably the cheapest in Europe, generally 70% less than the U.K.Legal transactions are easy and safe with a good lawyer. Taxes are incomparably lower than Western Europe. Banking services also easy and consumer friendly. Most houses, even those requiring serious renovation have water, electricity, and telephones. The minimum wage in Bulgaria is 125 Euros per. month, a skilled workers wage is reflected accordingly, which means quotes for building and renovation projects are very affordable.
Figures released in February 2007 state that there are now 30,000 British home-owners, many making a permanent move in order to stretch depleting pensions, others for holiday homes or the investment opportunity.
Wizz Air became the first budget airline to fly into Sofia in 2006, since E.U accession many other airlines are queuing to sign contracts and easy-jet are looking to establish Sofia as their control centre in this region, all good news for investors, property hunters and tourists.
