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I agree, I've enjoyed living in Bulgaria too.

But, if you have skills, then there are many places where those skills will bring you much more money! If you need an income to live here then the very low wages in Bulgaria will be a shock to the system.

On the other hand, if you already have some money/income/pension, then its low cost of living makes it very attractive.

Having said that, I was recently offered a pretty decent lecturing job back in the UK... and the money sounded very tempting. Until I weighed up the taxes and extra living costs for going back... versus chilling out at my village house in BG with minimal bills, and carrying on teaching online. I decided that my quality of life was better earning a few hundred dollars a month here, versus a few grand there.

So, yes, Bulgaria probably works well as a low-cost home base, if your skills can be monetized via online platforms,

GWYNJ is correct in his view.  I agree.

Hi I have lived in Sofia for 18 months. I find a lot of unfriendly locals particularly over 40 ish or is it just me?

Not sure!    Join some of the international clubs.  The one in Sofia has some 200 members and they will accept you immediately.  As always, you will get out of it what you put into it!    I find that it is better to be soft spoken and polite as Americans have the reputation of being pushy, loud, and opinionated.   Never criticize any thing in Bulgaria.  It is a very proud culture.  Tip well!    My language skills are still basic however when one tries to speak the local language that shows that you are a different sort of person than most foreigners.  Most people look at me funny when I try to speak and then when they get the message they embrace me and try to help me pronounce the words properly and teach me new ones. 

Join some sort of local club, Bridge, Gardening etc.   I drive a motorcycle and that connected me immediately---not with Hells Angels but with the business people as it is a big pastime here. 

One thing you should know is that waiters and Maitre'd professions are the social connection much lie a dating society.   Always glad to introduce you if you make friends with the staff and in particular the owner.

We live in a beach resort and often visit Sofia and the Ski areas.  We have made many friends however it took a few years.   Don't give up.   All it takes is one good connection and the world will blossom.  Invite people into your home as having a dinner in you home is considered the best compliment you can make o someone. 

We started our circle with local shopkeepers who took us under their wing.   Perhaps it is is different from Sofia.  I would not want to live there but enjoy visiting.

Thanks johnsvann

When I go to burgas there is a different atmosphere.

Johnkwt wrote:

Thanks johnsvann

When I go to burgas there is a different atmosphere.

You will find this in most places. Luckily I haven't found any problems in all the places I have visited around the world.

Sofia is not that nice because of a lot of old Warsaw era people. I live in Burgas & there's definitely a difference. More educated and a bit more friendly.

I fully agree