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Bulgaria has a wealth of character, culture and history and has something to offer tourists with a wide range of interests.
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There are two main reasons why people are interested in Bulgaria as a destination to purchase property; Bulgaria boasts a fantastic quality of life and it offers an almost unrivalled investment opportunity. Of course, these two need not be mutually exclusive, indeed, nor should they be. Bulgaria has a wealth of character, culture and history and has something to offer tourists with a wide range of interests.
For most foreign holidaymakers, however, the country's main lure is its long, sandy Black Sea Coast, which boasts swaths of stunning beaches and picturesque bays but there is so much more to this country, and so much of it remains largely untouched and unvisited by overseas tourists. Networks of well-maintained hiking trails and horse-riding routes allow you to discover Bulgaria’s lush mountainous and forested landscapes. Getting around the country is easy, with cheap and efficient public transport to ferry you between the cities and into the remoter, rural corners, where the traditional, slow pace of life continues much as it has done for centuries.
The cost of living in Bulgaria is substantially lower than in other countries and amongst the lowest world-wide. In particular eating and drinking is very inexpensive with a meal costing an average of €5-7, a bottle of beer for less than €1 and a good Bulgarian wine costing around €5 a bottle. A meal for 4 in can cost as little as €35 including two bottles of wine!
Climate
The climate in Northern Bulgaria is moderate continental, while the climate in Southern Bulgaria is intermediate continental tending to Mediterranean. The climate in the regions with an altitude of 1900-2000 m above sea level is mountainous and along the Black Sea coast it is maritime. The climate of the seaside regions is milder in the winter and cooler in the summer than the climate of the interior of the country. The average annual temperature is 10oC; in summer this rises to 23oC and in winter the average temperature is around 0oC.
Marked by four distinct seasons, Bulgaria enjoys a generally favourable climate that is one of the country's best features. Although located at the same latitude as southern New England, Bulgaria's climate is noticeably more temperate. Summers are typically hot and dry, but rarely oppressive, with moderate relative humidity. Winters are cold but not bitterly so. In the south and Black Sea coastal regions, Mediterranean influences temper the harsher continental climate of the interior. The country's half-dozen mountain groups also play a significant part in determining regional variances.
Tourism
Bulgaria, a country with an historical and cultural heritage and attractive natural landscapes, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Southeast Europe. Tourism, as an industry, has been an important source of economic growth. In 2008 Bulgaria was visited by 5.8 million tourists, measured as outlined by the World Tourism Organization. Tourists from three countries - Greece, Romania and Germany - account for 40% of visitors.
Location & getting there
Bulgaria is within 3 hours flight of the UK, easily accessible for a weekend break or a week long vacation. The country is approximately the same size as the UK, but with 7,262,675 population. Much of Bulgaria is untouched by development, making it a breathtaking place to visit. From the coast to the mountains, Bulgaria offers coastal breaks, skiing holidays or city breaks.
Air transport
Two-way daily flights link Sofia to Varna and Bourgas. During the summer season there are more daily flights in both directions.
Train
The rail network is extensive and connects most cities and villages. Travelling by train in Bulgaria is quite cheap.
Roads
Highway “Hemus” links Sofia with Varna and highway “Trakia” - Sofia with Plovdiv and Bourgas. Private bus services cover most directions, with the exception of some high mountain villages.
Rent-a-car
The big international rent-a-car companies have agents in most of the towns, resorts and airports. Information about the rates is available at the hotels and travel agencies.
| About Bulgaria | Climate | Tourism | Location & getting there | Food & Drink | Language & Culture | Property in Bulgaria |
