What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Bulgaria. They wrote...
"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," wrote a member who made the move to Varna, Bulgaria.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"Expats in Bulgaria often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the country's bureaucracy can be difficult to navigate, as many processes are not well-documented or easily accessible. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand, as they are often quite different from those of other countries. Finally, the cost of living in Bulgaria can be high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local lifestyle," explained one expat living in Bulgaria.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Bulgaria?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Bulgaria?
- Will I be able to find a job in Bulgaria?
- What is life like in Bulgaria?
- What do expats in Bulgaria appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Bulgaria?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Bulgaria accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Bulgaria like?
- What are healthcare services like in Bulgaria?
- What are medical services in Bulgaria like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Bulgaria?
- What are emergency services like in Bulgaria?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Bulgaria?
- How are local medical facilities in Bulgaria?
- As a foreigner living in Bulgaria, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Bulgaria, newcomers to Bulgaria would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.