Digital Nomad Life in Varna, Bulgaria
Summary: Varna, Bulgaria is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. The approximate population of Varna, Bulgaria is around 400,000 people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Varna is around $800-$1,000 USD. To rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Varna, it would cost around $400-$500 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Varna is the city center, as it is close to the beach, restaurants, and other attractions. The weather in Varna, Bulgaria is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (1-21 Celsius).
How do I meet people in Varna?
When we asked people living in Varna about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Varna often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and book clubs. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as attending meetups and networking events. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and striking up conversations with locals," remarked one member in Varna.
What is life like in Varna?
When we asked people living in Varna what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Varna is an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads due to its low cost of living, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Expats and digital nomads in Varna can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the city's many attractions. The city is home to a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as a lively nightlife scene. The city also offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to sailing and swimming. Expats and digital nomads in Varna can also take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around. With its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches, Varna is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Varna.
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Where should I live in Varna?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Varna is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Varna. Additionally, you can search for local real estate agents who specialize in Varna rentals. These agents can provide you with more information about the rental market in Varna and can help you find the perfect place to live. You can also ask friends and family who live in Varna for recommendations on rental properties. Finally, you can look for rental listings in local newspapers and magazines," said one expat who made the move to Varna.
What do I need to know before moving to Varna?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Varna, they said:
"Before retiring in Varna, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as English is not widely spoken. It is also important to research the cost of living in the city, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should consider the climate and weather in Varna, as it can be quite cold in the winter months. Finally, expats should research the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into their new home," explained one person living in Varna, Bulgaria.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Varna?
"The traditions that are observed most of which are centuries old. One of which is "Martinitza" (probably not spelled correctly). March 1st which celebrates the coming of spring and you wear something red and white. Everyone seems to participate even the dogs and cats. Coffee shops...Bulgarians love to sit inside or outside, talk and drink coffee...very good coffee," said one person in Varna.
"Expatriates in Varna appreciate the city's relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's rich cultural heritage, with its many museums, galleries, and monuments. The city's stunning Black Sea coastline is also a major draw for expats, who enjoy the beautiful beaches and stunning views. Finally, expats appreciate the city's affordability, with its low cost of living and wide range of affordable housing options," said one expat who made the move to Varna.
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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Varna?
"Expats in Varna often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. As Bulgarian is not a widely spoken language, it can be difficult for expats to communicate with locals. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate for those who are not familiar with them. Expats may also find the slower pace of life in Varna to be a challenge, as it can be difficult to adjust to the more relaxed lifestyle," remarked one member in Varna.
"Putting up with terrible drivers. Streets in many cities are very narrow and cars are parked every which-way on sidewalks or wherever. Speed limits for the most part are not observed and very seldom enforced. I will admit that the new government is trying to crack down on speeders with cameras," explained one expat living in Varna, Bulgaria.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Varna for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Varna for a while, you will need to apply for a long-term residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to obtain a visa before entering Bulgaria. You can apply for a long-term residence permit at the local Migration Office in Varna. You will need to provide documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial means, proof of health insurance, and proof of accommodation," said one person in Varna.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Varna?
We asked people in Varna if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"I wore my first Martinitsa well in June, when a kind friend told me it was time to put it away," explained one expat living in Varna, Bulgaria.
"It is important to be mindful of local customs and traditions when visiting Varna. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be respectful of religious sites and to avoid taking photographs without permission. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding tipping and to be respectful of the local culture," said one person in Varna.
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What are healthcare services like in Varna?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Varna, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Varna, are provided through a mix of public and private facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. The city is home to several well-equipped public hospitals, such as St. Marina University Hospital and the Naval Hospital, which offer a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. Additionally, there are numerous private clinics and medical centers that cater to various healthcare needs, such as dental care, diagnostics, and rehabilitation. Varna is also known for its medical universities, such as the Medical University of Varna, which contribute to the city's reputation for high-quality healthcare services by training medical professionals and conducting research. The city's healthcare system is supported by a network of general practitioners, specialists, and pharmacies, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to comprehensive medical care. While the public healthcare system in Varna is generally considered to be of good quality, it may face challenges such as long waiting times and limited resources. As a result, many locals and expats opt for private healthcare services, which are known for their modern facilities, shorter waiting times, and personalized care. However, private healthcare can be more expensive, and it is recommended to have health insurance to cover the costs. Overall, healthcare services in Varna, Bulgaria, are characterized by a combination of public and private facilities, well-trained medical professionals, and a strong emphasis on medical education and research. While the public healthcare system may face some challenges, the availability of private healthcare options ensures that residents and visitors have access to quality medical care," said one digital nomad in Varna.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Varna?
"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Varna, for several reasons. They appreciate the affordable cost of living, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The city's beautiful beaches and picturesque coastline are also a major draw, offering a relaxing environment and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Varna has a rich history and vibrant culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore. The local cuisine is delicious and diverse, with a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. The city is also well-connected, with good public transportation and easy access to other parts of Bulgaria and Europe. On the other hand, there are some aspects of living in Varna that expats and digital nomads may not enjoy as much. The language barrier can be a challenge, as not everyone speaks English, making it difficult to communicate and navigate daily life. The job market can be competitive, with limited opportunities for expats, especially those who do not speak Bulgarian. The bureaucracy and paperwork involved in obtaining visas and residence permits can be time-consuming and frustrating. Additionally, the winter months can be cold and dreary, with limited activities and events compared to the bustling summer season. Finally, some expats may find the local healthcare system to be lacking in quality and accessibility, particularly when it comes to specialized care and treatments," said a member in Varna.
"Bulgaria is a very historical country. Lots of interesting things to see, but you have to seek them out, so read travel books! Bulgaria is also a very traditional country where traditions are respected. "Martenitsa" is celebrated March 1st all over Bulgaria. Look it up, interesting! The major thing I do not like about Bulgaria is the car drivers who park anywhere and in any position as well as do not seem to respect speed limits. The Bulgarian staff at the U.S. Embassy in Sofia are, for the most part, "snotty", unprofessional, and act as if they are doing you a favor. I guess that living under socialism for so many years had influenced their behavior. I have dealt with embassies in other countries and have not been treated as "shabbily" as the Bulgarian staff at the U.S. Embassy in Sofia. On the other hand, the U.S. citizen employees I have dealt with at the embassy have always been polite, professional and helpful. Fortunately they have never had to live under socialism...yet," explained one person living in Varna, Bulgaria.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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