I was lucky enough to have my first experience of Bulgaria on a last minute trip with my family in 2002, one of those years when we had left it too late to book Florida, our usual destination, Bularia was available and within our budget at that time, so we decided to take a chance.
I recall when we first arrived at the airport at Varna, a very run down old industrialised area of the city - we were more than a little apprehensive. Although we didnt admit it to the kids, the glances my wife and I gave each other said it all,having been seasoned travellers to Florida for many years - this was certainly not what we were expecting. Thankfully our initial apprehension was soon dispelled.
The package had included a two star hotel - and whilst it was clean, with a good pool etc, I would recommend that you book at least a 3/4 star hotel if you want to get the level of accomodation found in the more travelled holiday destinations.(We upgraded after one night - the best thing we ever did!)
We stayed at the Golden Sands resort, which is about 15 minutes drive from the nearest Bulgarian city of Varna. A beautiful location with everything you could want for an entertaining, leisurely break. We have since stayed at the resort of Albena, which is further North, but with the miles and miles of beautiful beaches stretching out along the Black Sea coast - all the resorts have a tremendous appeal to those who are beach worshippers.
It was obvious to me then that with the coming admission of Bulgaria to the European Union that this was one of the emerging property markets that was going to be a key location for those wishing to buy holiday homes or investment properties. I know of people already reporting that prices of property and land have tripled (and more) - in the few short years since our first visit in 2002.
My advice to anyone who has not visited Bulgaria yet is to go as soon as you can, the people are the most welcoming and friendly that you could wish to meet. The cost of living, whilst on the increase, is still well below what most westerners are used to paying, so whether going on vacation or planning to live there you will certainly be getting value for money.
Those of you who are planning to invest in property should, like any shrewd investor, visit the property or district where they plan to buy, and its always better to deal with companies who have local offices and can ensure that you are in compliance with local legislation.
About the Author.
Jim Montgomery is a freelance writer and web designer, who enjoys recommending anything that he has personally experienced and found to be worthwhile. Currently he is running two Bulgarian news and information sites which can be found at:
WWW.BULGARIANPROPERTY.COM and WWW.BULGARIANPROPERTY.CO.UK