http://www.expatinbulgaria.com Posts in the forum of The portal for expats and foreigners in Bulgaria http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=65 Relocation and Moving Do you have any particular experience with movers, can you recommend someone? It is always something different to learn from first-hand experience rather than from ads or the commercial materials presented. Personal views can also be distorted but at least can help someone form an opinion on actual experience. So would you be keen on recommending someone, what worked best in your case? http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1369 Relocation and Moving Hi we came over last year with a caravan but came through Serbia. All in all apart from a few problems with tyres and wheels the journey was fine. Make sure you have ownership documents for the caravan when you arrive in Bulgaria, if you are stopped and asked for them they can take it from you. If you are carrying above normal weight make sure you fit heavy load tyres on the Caravan. Can't think of anything else at the moment but if there is anything you want to ask please do. Dwane http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=139 Relocation and Moving Any Australians moved to Bg? And can anyone tell me..Do Australians need a visa, I've read conflicting advice...my understanding is that they can stay for up to 90 in a six month perios. Is this correct? http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=139 Relocation and Moving Yes, Australians do not need visa, if they stay less than 90 days in Bulgaria. If you have a diplomatic passport, you would need a visa, but I presume this is not the case. There are some requirements though concerning any foreigner entering Bulgaria. You could find more information on the site of Bulgaria's Foreign Ministry: http://www.mfa.government.bg/index.php?tid=4&item_id=10269 Good luck :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=65 Relocation and Moving I will try to be objective here. Follow the link to learn about some experience with AGS. http://www.easyexpat.com/forums/sutra_34731.htm I don't care what you say below - you work for AGS, use the same terminology as on your other intervews on this media. Easy to find and understand you're a loser. Liar, liar - pants on fire! http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=65 Relocation and Moving Just received a notice about the reply on my post, and I have to admit that it make me laught !!! I have used 7 times this company in Africa and EU, with 200% of satisfaction ! It's the same in my business, car maker. We will produce 10.000 cars and 1 of them will have a none vital fabrication problem that will make 1 person unhappy. This person will contact a media to report the trouble, and then we loose 10.000 potantial clients ! Do you think by buying Mercedes or Porsche you will avoid mecanical troubles ? wrong ! This person was not lucky, that's all, or put down the price, and so the quality of service. Do you negociate a price when you go to buy Mercedes ;) I am never trying to put down the rates, quality as a price. that's all. And we know this very well in car maker business. Don't fly with Airbus, there was a crask in 2004, don't fly with Airbus, there was a crash in 2006, don't buy a Fiat, it is very bad quality cars... I just tried to give a good information with a company that I used several time, not only once as this person. Ciao ! http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=65 Relocation and Moving I have also used AGS once and everything was fine and received on time. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=219 Relocation and Moving [color=green:9415d056c9]Any Irish people already made the move to Bulgaria? What are the key elements that need to be organised? - visa, etc Will anything change after Jan 1 2007? Any advice very welcome... Sláinte :) [/color:9415d056c9] http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=251 Relocation and Moving Does anyone know the real truth concerning D Visas which I am now told have been eliminated for EU members. But I cannot find out how long you are allowed to stay in Bulgaria without Residence Card. You can apply for Res Card without D Visa I understand. This info has come from a lawyer who says the new law has now been published but I have yet to see details of the wording. DKR http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=251 Relocation and Moving Myself and my wife are on about emigrating to Bulgaria, we would like to buy and house and set up a coffee shop/cafe or similer not sure where yet still looking... The question is how does one emmigrate to Bulgaria, I have had so many diferent stories from NO way to god itys easy.. but none that give the facts and the ins and outs of it and who to contact..ect... please please please could somebody please enlighten me and the other half about how we can get to stay there full time... No we are not retired and far it if you were wondering..:D Thanks in advance for any help http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=65 Relocation and Moving I would recommend Interdean as well. They have an office in Sofia. Cheers http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=251 Relocation and Moving Hiya, The following link is to the page of European section of Ministry of Interior, unfortunately it is not still "EU-updated" : http://eu.mvr.bg/en/How_change/eucitizens.htm I guess if you have a look at this web site in a month, more updated info will be placed there which might answer some of your questions. Good luck with your emmigration and a happy new year! :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=256 Relocation and Moving Hello Im looking for TV providers either SAT or Cable for TV watching as well as Internet. Do u have any recommendation? Thanks http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=257 Relocation and Moving Me and the wife and my business partner are coming to bulgaria at the en of feb to purchase my house and hopefully a shop, the problem we have is where to stay, we don't want expensive hotels we want cheap b&b's as we will be out all day looking for a house ect.. the stay will be for about 10-14days so if anyone has any cheap places to rent or b&b please let me know Thank you http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=257 Relocation and Moving Are you coming in Sofia or somewhere in the country? Please, specify and I'll try to recommend you something. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=256 Relocation and Moving I have cable TV from www.cabletel.bg/?p=&language=en and I'm pretty satisfied with it You can also check some of the below. I think they all offer TV and Interent: www.itvpartner.com (this one is digital) www.ekk.bg/ www.evrocom.net http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=251 Relocation and Moving Dear expat users, We are working on finding some actual information on the new visa regulations but we still do not have the offical statement of the authorities. We will update the information in our Visa section and post a message in the forum ASAP. Thanks for your patience Hope the new regulations will makes your stay in Bulgaria easier! :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=256 Relocation and Moving From my experience it seems that Broadband and Cable TV providers are "Very Localised" some to a few streets or small areas in Sofia and "Local Knowledge" is required The Best Way is to speak to your neighbours (or get a Bulgarian Speaker to do this as I did) and ask who supplied their service and if the service is good or not. Another way is to speak to the nearest Computer Shop as they will more than likely know Hope this helps! http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=251 Relocation and Moving Dear expats, Now you can find some useful info regarding new visa regulations here http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/articles/Regulations-for-the-entry-and-stay-of-EU-citizens-in-Bulgaria/20/1077 All visitors of this site are welcomed to post their questions or additional information in the forum or to contact us at info@expatinbulgaria.com http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=257 Relocation and Moving I agree with Doggy- first tell us where you plan to stay, as this for sure affects the number of options you have available. In most cities, even smaller ones, people offer rooms and apartments for rent, which usually turns out to be much cheaper than a hotel (and in some occasions more comfortable and cosy). The problem is that you have to look for such accommodation on the spot and can't really do much in advance. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=257 Relocation and Moving You do not give area but if arriving in Varna an excelent B and B ia located 15 minutes from airport run by english couple. Thier number is 00359897695796 from UK .They will probably collect you from Airport if requested. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=257 Relocation and Moving Hi there, I am a new member and live in the Bourgas area, I have a small business renting apartments in Pomorie, 10 minutes from Bourgas Airport if this is any where near where you are going I am sure I could give you a good deal on an apartment. Chow Celia http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=251 Relocation and Moving I have now lived in Bulgaria over 3 years and it has been an uphill battle with the documentation, every 6 to 12 months with the visa and ID card. Apparently now when my visa expires as long as I ask for a 5 year visa I should automatically get it (so I am told). Things are getting so much easier year by year. Celia http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=257 Relocation and Moving I have stayed in many hotels, for durations of 1 night up to 2 weeks, like everywere else you get what u pay for, I have never stayed in expensive hotels and allways found levels of service good, the helpfulness of owners and staff have allways supassed other countries I have stayed in.Bulgarain hotel prices are relatively cheap compared to other eu countries. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=257 Relocation and Moving Hi As everyone else says in depends wheer you want to stay. I have a house for rent in Preselenstis, near Kavarna in the Dobrich region. If this is any good for you then look at www.bulgarianvillagehomes.com under For Rent. It is Reference PRERent010. Rob Tel - 0793 1796160 e: rob@bulgarianvillagehomes.com PS I am in BG from Friday 2nd Feb - 11th Feb inclusive. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=219 Relocation and Moving Hi Red! There are plenty of Irish moving to Buulgaria! I live in a small village called Preselentsi in Dobrich region near Kavarna. My hous is on a crossroads and two of my neighbours (sisters) are Irish from Donegal. Actually, that makes three of us as I am Irish (Portrush), sorry four of us as one of their son's has also bought a place and, excuse my maths, theer is even another one, Norman, who is from my home town - Coleraine. Best bet to find aout about visa restrictions would be the Irish Embassy in Sofia. Have a look at our website - www.bulgarianvillagehomes.com. On the Home Page under Village Information, click on Dobrich and Varna regions and you will find Preslentsi. All the Best. Rob http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=65 Relocation and Moving Maby off topic, but it is an alternative, have a garage sale before you move and buy new. New country,new house, new life and you are helping the economy. You will proberbly replace most of your stuff within the first couple of years anyway so why bother with the hastle and expense. Pehaps some who have moved lock,stock and barrell can post to say what pecentage of stuff they have replaced and over what period say first year, second year or even what went straight in the "skip" when the wagon was unloaded http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=256 Relocation and Moving I know little about this subject but there are seveal providers and even some english speaking chanels easily availiable. As for advise on providers and packages that has to be a personal decision to find whats best for your viewing needs. Bulgaria is a huge country and satalite footprints vary across the country so advise for each area is different. Again with the internet, services vary so much that a simple post cannot answer your question. Questions are best resolved when you are in Bulgaria, service providers and other english speaking europeans (dont like to say ex pat now we are in euroupe) are a good place for advice as is the nearest bar to your property were if you dont get the answer you want just make some new friends and forget about the tv.Sorry this post is so negative. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=295 Relocation and Moving This is a long shot... Does anyone know a relaiable English speaking builder who could build a tiny mezzanine floor 2m x 2.5m in my apartment for me using the 3 supporting walls that are there already. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=296 Relocation and Moving is there a van hire place in sofia? or man with a van need a transit van size thanks http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=296 Relocation and Moving I think most of the rent-a-car companies offer vans. Try www.rentomobile.com or www.carrental.bg http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=295 Relocation and Moving Hello 'lisabanks' Maybe you've already found what you're looking for. In case you haven't done that yet - I can offer you help. Please contact me at: boya@boyadel.com Best Regards Boya :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=321 Relocation and Moving Been taking care of a little puppy name ninai. Unfortunatelly, I have to leave Bulgaria and I need to find her a home. She's probably 4 months, housetrainned and got all the vaccinations that you could imagine. Very sociable and playfull. She's the greatest dog! She even follow you everywhere in town without a lease! I don't want to put her back in the street where I found her. Anyone fancy a dog??? If so, I will be glad to bring her to you, I'm leaving in 2 weeks... Can't figure how to put pictures but if you interested contact me on caye@hotmail.com and I will send you some pictures. [/img] http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=323 Relocation and Moving hi im looking for an appartment to rent in sofia(lozenes,borovo,beli-berzi or somewhere in the south or center)from the middel of this month or beginning of april. 1,2 rooms preffer new building. max 300euro any help will be appriciate thanks tsmoler@hotmail.com http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=356 Relocation and Moving i want to buy some property in sandanski or burgas wine growing areas. are there any expats who can recommend villages to look at and property companies to deal with? http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=356 Relocation and Moving Hi! Are you only looking in these two areas? We have a large wine growing area here in central Bulgaria and already helping a young couple set up in wine business here. We can source vine yards for you if required. Still pretty cheap although alrger companies tending to buy up much of it. Rachel http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=367 Relocation and Moving Hi Folks, We are about to embark on our journey to BG and will drive from portugal..we want to find jobs in real estate, selling to uk buyers, want to buy ourselves, never been to BG but we are determinded to settle, done lots of research but really need to speak with someone already living and working there. Any supportive advice would be great...cheers http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=257 Relocation and Moving Hi All I will be coming to Sofia at the end of June, for a similar purpose as the couple above. If anyone has any recommendations of a cheap B&B in Sofia please pass them onto me grgjohnson@blueyonder.co.uk Thanks in advance LordGee http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=65 Relocation and Moving The worst experience I have ever had in my life was moving all our household and personal belongings to Bulgaria. We used a company called www.removalgroup.com and I would not recommend this company at all. When they came to collect our items they never had enough room on the vehicle. We had paid for 18 cubic metres and they only had room for 16 cubic metres as there was someone else furniture already on the truck. We then had to find somewhere else to put our items until they could pick it up. 5 weeks later it was picked up but only because I was chasing this up to be collected. Then when we got our goods delivered the truck driver opened up the back of his truck it looked as if it was going to a rubbish heap. My husband was very angry. It got offloaded and half of our items were damaged or missing. The 2 cubic metres that they collected at a later date was not there either. The customer service manager would not even speak to me. One of her colleagues told me I had to put it in writing which I think was a disgrace. We have gone through so much with this company. Please everyone do not use this company what so ever. It cost us a lot of money and stress. Because of this experience I would recommend to sell everything in the UK and buy new things when you get to Bulgaria.[/u] http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=65 Relocation and Moving [quote:5fa929a691="Scorpion"]The worst experience I have ever had in my life was moving all our household and personal belongings to Bulgaria. We used a company called www.removalgroup.com and I would not recommend this company at all. When they came to collect our items they never had enough room on the vehicle. We had paid for 18 cubic metres and they only had room for 16 cubic metres as there was someone else furniture already on the truck. We then had to find somewhere else to put our items until they could pick it up. 5 weeks later it was picked up but only because I was chasing this up to be collected. Then when we got our goods delivered the truck driver opened up the back of his truck it looked as if it was going to a rubbish heap. My husband was very angry. It got offloaded and half of our items were damaged or missing. The 2 cubic metres that they collected at a later date was not there either. The customer service manager would not even speak to me. One of her colleagues told me I had to put it in writing which I think was a disgrace. We have gone through so much with this company. Please everyone do not use this company what so ever. It cost us a lot of money and stress. Because of this experience I would recommend to sell everything in the UK and buy new things when you get to Bulgaria.[/u][/quote:5fa929a691] That's indeed the best advise there is. When I moved I bought a van and a trailor to move the utmost important myself. The rest I sold when possible and gave to charity. I bought all new in Bulgaria. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=367 Relocation and Moving [quote:2cb095ebc1="kmcqteddy"]Hi Folks, We are about to embark on our journey to BG and will drive from portugal..we want to find jobs in real estate, selling to uk buyers, want to buy ourselves, never been to BG but we are determinded to settle, done lots of research but really need to speak with someone already living and working there. Any supportive advice would be great...cheers[/quote:2cb095ebc1] Great plan! There are lots of other brits who want to buy without ever seeing the country beforehand. You should do quite well until the bubble breaks or until brits get smart, whichever happens first http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=371 Relocation and Moving I will be driving over there on the dates specified from the UK. My family will be moving there in the first week in August.We currently have the buliders in and the estimated work will take until 16th July Approx 2.5 months. Were going to live in a vilage near Lovech. My agent has told us that there is an Irish Family 2 villages away from ours. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=371 Relocation and Moving Hi FoZ, Few Bristish families are living in Lovech as far as I know. I will try to contact I friend of mine who knows some of the fellows and wil get back to you. Why did you choose Lovech ? It's a nice town I have heard but is still very quiet... http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=371 Relocation and Moving Lovech is the first big town near where my village is, its even quieter than lovech. I have already met a few villagers and met the lady mayor. The only foreseable problem is being able to differentiate between true friendly people and those who are just along to see what they can get, I don't really blame then, I have been offered everything between logs - baby chickens and I was only there 7hrs. I am quite lucky as there is an x foreign ministry worker whose english is very good. I cant wait to leave england now, as I see the big brother scenario unfolding, or the totalitarean tiptoe some call it. Everybody got there reasons for moving away from blighty!!! Thanks for the offer off by the way of introductions etc, but I usually find my own way and I wouldn'y like to live in a colony so to speak, but would rather just blend in to the scenery. L8rz FoZ http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=375 Relocation and Moving Hello there, I'm organising a charity drive to Istanbul in early June. The plan was to sell our vehicles when we arrived in Istanbul but this is not possible due to import duty. As such we have 23 cars between 8-15 years old that we will be taking over the border to Bulgaria (MALKO TARNOVO) to sell or in some cases scrap. There are some great cars amongst the group - Mercs, BMW's and we don't want a lot for the vehicles - most of them around the 200-600 Euro mark. If anyone is interested please get in touch and tell me what type of car you are looking for. If you know anyone that might be interested please pass this info on. The only catch is you must me in Malko Tarnovo on Saturday 12th June to pick the car up. Thanks Rick rick.murray@sky.com http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=377 Relocation and Moving Hi, Can anyone help or advise me at all. I have just seperated from my partner and need to find a way of getting me and my personal effects back to the UK as soon as possible. Thanks Ann-Marie x http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=377 Relocation and Moving Hello Ann-Marie I am sorry that such unpleasant event is the reason for you seek help here. Hope it'll work out in the best way for you. Are you looking for a relocation service? Depending how many of your belongings you wish to move back to the UK, you may either hire such service and load them on a lorry, just a lorry section or even ship them (if you could wait few weeks) ... It is important where are you located at the moment too. Some logistic companies could have room for your effects in one of their lorries, delivering Bulgarian goods to the UK ... but if you are too far away from Sofia or other major city, where these companies have offices - it might be a problem. Wishing you the best of luck. Boya boya@boyadel.com http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=377 Relocation and Moving Thanks for that - i'm in Varna. The main problem is asevere lack of funds so need to do it as cheaply as possible. i don't have much stuff just clothes, photos, cds etc.. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=394 Relocation and Moving My buildert has let me down full refurbishment of house, genuine advert. Only serious professional need apply. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=402 Relocation and Moving i wish to import some personal electrical items, TV video dvd computer fax, into bulgaria from outside the EU. does anyone know or can give a website that would tell me what duties i would have to pay. does it make any differnec eif i import form the EU? http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=402 Relocation and Moving [quote:b2de84f627="johnkwt"]i wish to import some personal electrical items, TV video dvd computer fax, into bulgaria from outside the EU. does anyone know or can give a website that would tell me what duties i would have to pay. does it make any differnec eif i import form the EU?[/quote:b2de84f627] Bring it in as personal belongings and you won't pay a thing. (must be mentioned on the customs docs) cost will be around 2x50? in customs Bring it in as trade and you'll be cheaper bying brandnew in BG. (you need EUR1 and other certificates) Just put it in your car and the customs-officer will complain but let you pass as he sees it are personal belongings. Something under the table might help. I would say just put it in the car. There are only borders for people, not for goods in the EU. Therefore it might be better if you could cross the border with a civilised EU country. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=377 Relocation and Moving i may go back (in my van in one year) but you can put the larger items at my house till then. or save cash or maybe someone else will be going before that. sure something will turn up, bet you'll miss the kamenitsa's mathew - vratsa http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=406 Relocation and Moving Hi My name is Sylvia and my husband and I will be traveling to Bulgaria by car and taking our caravan on the 26th June from the U.K, and wondered if anyone else is going that way on the same day, we are going to our house near to Varna, if anyone is and would like some company please give us a shout. p.s. does anyone know if it's ok to bring plants in from the U.K. sylvete. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=413 Relocation and Moving Hi Risky, Good choice for locating and opening a company in one of the most developed and beautiful cities in Eastern Europe. I am an employee in a company for house renovatings and furnishing in Varna. As it's my native town, I know everything about and around Varna, so I will be glad to help you with the cheapest stuff here ;-) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=413 Relocation and Moving Hi I relocating to Varna by end of July 2007 to start new business with new company. I welcome suggestion for cheapest way to ship 6m3 stuff. I decided to sell all furnish and buy new one in Varna as the shipping is cheaper. Thanks Riscy http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=413 Relocation and Moving Could I have rough price quote for 1 of wide sofa, 1 off single sofa (wooden frame and lether or good cover) Office table and shelve, beach. Queen sized bed...new, firm and good spec. Pine Shelve (similat to Ikea) about 6 off ceiling to floor. and many other....we speak again when time get closer. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=413 Relocation and Moving Hi Riscy, You can choose among many furniture companies in Varna. I know this business is growing fast in the area -that's what foreigners living there say.I can't give you an advise about a particular one but you can try with a 'furniture bulgaria' google search. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=419 Relocation and Moving I have spoken to ARM International (Express European Logistics) company, who has 15.5m3 transit van that can relocate my home stuff to Varna. It is cheaper than other relocation company I come across. During discussion, I was impressed by their experience. I like to hear experience from other who use this service. Please email me:- riscy@onetel.com Thanks. Riscy http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Hi all, I just found this website by chance, and it looks very interesting, as the other forum I used seems to be full of spammers. I own a ond house near Sredets. I have been recommended a building company called mekotek, and they have quoted for the work required, I have accepted the quote, and they are going to send me a contract, despite being recommended them, by a few people, and seeing their website www.mekotek.com is there anything I should be looking out for, as I am very carefull parting with my money. Any advice on what the contract should entail etc.. would be much appreciated. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Hi, Just wishing you good luck with your rennovations. You don't say if you live in bulgaria? Might be a good idea if you don't, not to tell them when you are due to come over for inspection trips. So that you can assess the quality of their work without them prepping things for your trip. Also a time scale. And if they discover something unexpected, what happens? And out of interest as they are based both in the UK and Bg, what currency do they charge in? Best of luck :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=433 Relocation and Moving Hi We are new to the forum, and have read through some of the subjects which are so helpful. We require help with the renovation of an old property in the mountains about 20 mins from Stredetz, We really need help with builders that maybe other English buyers have used and have been more than satisfied with the workmanship, and reliabilty and the price they charge and communication.OR is there any UK tradesman looking for work?? We had started to use a company attached to a real estate company but the quote for the next stage is going to cost much more than UK prices!! There is alot of work to be done!Please emailif you can help!! Richard. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=433 Relocation and Moving [quote:1ac4cf89d3="shireenlloyd"]Hi We are new to the forum, and have read through some of the subjects which are so helpful. We require help with the renovation of an old property in the mountains about 20 mins from Stredetz, We really need help with builders that maybe other English buyers have used and have been more than satisfied with the workmanship, and reliabilty and the price they charge and communication.OR is there any UK tradesman looking for work?? We had started to use a company attached to a real estate company but the quote for the next stage is going to cost much more than UK prices!! There is alot of work to be done!Please emailif you can help!! Richard.[/quote:1ac4cf89d3] My word of advise: get used to it. You're in Africa now. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=406 Relocation and Moving [quote:1aeb78610d="sylvete"]Hi My name is Sylvia and my husband and I will be traveling to Bulgaria by car and taking our caravan on the 26th June from the U.K, and wondered if anyone else is going that way on the same day, we are going to our house near to Varna, if anyone is and would like some company please give us a shout. p.s. does anyone know if it's ok to bring plants in from the U.K. sylvete.[/quote:1aeb78610d] I will be going to Plovidv from Brussels on the 28th, through Romania. I drive a 4x4 and a 3axle trailer. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=434 Relocation and Moving Hi, we are a young family planning to move to Bulgaria in the near future and would like to meet other English people/couples and see how they are settling in etc. I am English and my wife is Bulgarian and we will intially stay with her parents in Plovdiv but we need to find accomodation and especially employment before we leave England for good. We will be coming to Bulgaria in the next few weeks where we hope to meet up with English people who have made a new life for themselves over there...looking forward to meeting you soon! :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=434 Relocation and Moving Hi, You will be a few k'ms away from us. We live just outside of Bourgas. Between Aitos and Bourgas. We are permanently here. You may be lucky and find work via the internet before you come here, but usually it's a case of looking once your here. What kind of work do you do? We build houses and do rennovation work, we are a family based company. it has taken 3 years for us to become established here, not just with clients but with suppliers. But all in all, I wouldn't go back to the UK. Our quality of life here is very high, the bank balance is very low. In the UK we had the same business, although it was primarily extension and rennovation work. Bank Balance high, quality of life low. More than happy to pass on our mobile numbers, if you want a chat when your here. Or meet up for a drink if your in this neck of the woods. Good luck with your move. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=433 Relocation and Moving Sunset your in the wrong country :!: Bulgaria :) We'll do all we can to help you avoid the pitfalls, here in Bulgaria. It doesn't have to be scary, coomonsense can prevail. Best of luck to you both, I've pm'd you, hope your ready for a long read :) :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=434 Relocation and Moving [quote:8d19eb2805="barnesfamily"]Hi, we are a young family planning to move to Bulgaria in the near future and would like to meet other English people/couples and see how they are settling in etc. I am English and my wife is Bulgarian and we will intially stay with her parents in Plovdiv but we need to find accomodation and especially employment before we leave England for good. We will be coming to Bulgaria in the next few weeks where we hope to meet up with English people who have made a new life for themselves over there...looking forward to meeting you soon! :)[/quote:8d19eb2805] We started a manufacturing in a city just outside Plovdiv, since 4 years permanently (except for many bussiness travels). If you have questions PM me, and we can have a drink sometime. What kind of work do you do? http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=433 Relocation and Moving [quote:00fe2ab125="molly"]Sunset your in the wrong country :!: Bulgaria :) :) :)[/quote:00fe2ab125] Isn't Bulgaria not ini Africa ??? I'm not talking about geography... ;);) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Hi, Further to your advice, I just turned up on them yesterday. There were 14 men on site, they had done loads already. I am pleased! http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=457 Relocation and Moving heya every one whats a popular town with expats we love the traditional old bulgaria we have bought in totleben just out of pleven but we have just been there for a few weeks but do see to meet anyone there. we would like to move to a area where theres a few expats and has nice lakes walks and country side does any one no a village like that maybe near us? http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=458 Relocation and Moving heya guys anyone live near obnova or totleben near pleven we have bought in both villages and are looking to meet up with expats around the area http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=457 Relocation and Moving Hi, move near Veliko Turnovo or Varna. For sure you will meet lot of expats living in the villages around.Russe region on Danube river is also getting popular among foreigners recently, I think. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Hi Mason, I am curious where exactly is Sredets situated...is it near Valiko Turnovo? Is it popular among forigners? Another user of this forum was interested where he could find a region populated with forigners and I have just started thinking of buying a country house in such area, may be... http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving they seem to be working well on our renovation we came back yesterday from bulgaria and we were happy, quality of works not up to english standards or finish but was still good. they have met deadlines and done what they say there gona do. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Hi Matt, I am with you on that one, not the same standards as the UK, but for the BG standard, Mekotek come out pretty tops, they do as they say they do, and drive you around all day long to help. I am particularly pleased with Nick and Dan, and the lady, I forget her name now. They are young, keen and professional. I am going to do another renovation this time somewhere like Montana, or Pleven area, and will not hesitate to use them again. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=464 Relocation and Moving Hi everyone, we will be moving to burgas in the near future and i have tried to find out about where to buy fish, meat, fruit and veg etc. does anyone know where there are supermarkets? :?: :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=413 Relocation and Moving hey when buying furniture or trying to understand directions www.bulgariahelp.com they have live operators with info and they speak english. youcan even tell theminenglishwhatyou want hand the phone over to a bulgarian sales person or whoever and then let them do the talking! so sos helpful!!! rebecca xx http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=251 Relocation and Moving hey if you need to argue with your local authorities or similar the translation on paper or via phone www.bulgariahelp.com... not just comforting to know you have a helpful LIVE voice with you but also affordable in a world which through paperwork is making life more and more complicated! rebecca xx http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=464 Relocation and Moving :D Hi there Congratulations for chosing the right move :!: To your question - yes, there are supermarkets in Bourgas and the area, where you could find anything on your list .... but it is kind of silly, when moving to a country like Bulgaria, famous with the good conditions for agriculture and organic fruit&vegs, to end up shopping them from a supermarket just like back at home .... try the open markets to see what REAL TASTE means - Good Appetite! :) Kind Rehards Boya http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=467 Relocation and Moving Hi i have 3 properties near bourgas can anyone give me detail about builders i've been looking for months lots of agents but don't really want to give them the work unless i have too ...please anyone there must be good small builders around http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=464 Relocation and Moving Thanks for the reply boya, we definately intend to shop for good food at the markets but where are they, are they easy to find? all the best :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=464 Relocation and Moving Hi railwaychildren, In Bulgaria you can find shops on each corner - same comes for Bourgas. Of course more of them are small but still offer good foot.Big chains supermarkets like Metro or Billa could be found in large residential districts of each city, including Bourgas. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Maybe, you are settling for second best! Here in Bulgaria, quality of life comes first. Vegtables, Fruit from the home garden. Why settle for a drive in the country, when you should be there sorting out where the kitchen sink was planned to be not where someone else thought it should be. Houses are houses Homes are homes A home is an individual statement. And there are plenty of qualified/skilled trades people here. You just have to talk to them. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving And p.s. I don't mean the company who have already had enough plugs. Good luck to all those that build here :) :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=458 Relocation and Moving hello out there, our names are robin and kate, we moved to totleben in april this year. would love for us all to meet up.you can call us on 0884199906. hope to hear from you soon! http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving I.ve just read your advert and felt compelled to answer. Mekotek were the so called builders we dealt with, they were a bunch of ill equipped cowboys or should I say gypsies. The completed work was sub standard but according to our agent this is bulgarian standard. That cop out phrase is constantly used. They did not possess the necessary tools for the jobs, and we had to let them use ours. When we pointed this out to our agent he said we were lying. We also had doors and windows blocked in and they knocked down a shed in our garden to use the bricks to do the job and then had the cheek to charge us for materials. We paid 650pounds to have the hall stairs tiled and a banister erected,14 of the tiles are broken and the banister shakes with the wind, we are still waiting for this to be repaired. We have since met another couple who are experiencing the same and would be happy to meet with you to share more information. My advise to you is don't touch them with a barge pole. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Hi, I was worried after your last post and contacted the office of Meko to speak with them. Are you by any chance the chap that had a part renovation, and was present while the builders were there, and the same man that gave a snagging list, then paid the final money after you agreed all work was satisfactory? AND THE BIG QUESTION ARE YOU A BUILDER?????? I know there is a lot of rivalry with ex pats now living in Bulgaria looking for a slice of the market. I have paid a lot of money to this company, and feel uncomfortable with this issue now. Their website looks amazing, is your house on it? http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Hi Mason, You couldn't be more right. There is a lot of competetion here for building work. The down side of it is that most representitives of companies here are unethical, greedy and inept. Oh and most importantly liars. I am horrified, that as a customer, you can contact a limited company and they have shared information about another client with you. I would be interested to know where is your house? And do you work for them or own the company? or get paid a commission by them? The average price here for laying tiles is 15 lev a square meter. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving [quote:86169cba18="mason"]Hi, I was worried after your last post and contacted the office of Meko to speak with them. Are you by any chance the chap that had a part renovation, and was present while the builders were there, and the same man that gave a snagging list, then paid the final money after you agreed all work was satisfactory? AND THE BIG QUESTION ARE YOU A BUILDER?????? I know there is a lot of rivalry with ex pats now living in Bulgaria looking for a slice of the market. I have paid a lot of money to this company, and feel uncomfortable with this issue now. Their website looks amazing, is your house on it?[/quote:86169cba18] http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving Firstly mason. I think you must ask yourself how ethical was it for this company to give you my details. But I have no problem with answering your questions. Yes!! I am the man who had part renovation done. Yes!! I was there to oversee the work being carried out, just as well.We had a so called contract with Mekotek stating that the work would be complete within 40 days. They were 3 weeks over schedule, unfortunately we did not have a leg to stand on as the contract had not been notorised. Has yours? Yes we paid the balance,but firstly suggested to them to take us to court for it as we were unhappy with finished results. We were then informed by this companies english counterpart, that this was not how things were done, and I quote. '' In Bulgaria thery do not take people to court, they deal with it their way.'' unquote. Please feel free to interpereate that as you see fit. In reply to your last question, Yes!! I am a builder, a very good one, but let me assure you I am not plying for your buisness nor anyone else'I have more work than I can handle. You asked for advice and I gave it freely and as honestly as I could. Whether you take it or not is up to you. I wish you all the best with whatever you decide. kind regards. p.s. You are still welcome to come and see the unfinished stairs that cost us 650pounds. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=425 Relocation and Moving A small question? If once, before investing in Bulgaria. You were taken seriously.ie Builder, engineer, etc............. Why? Is it that your former/present occupation/profession doesn't count when you are seen as a 'cow for milking'. Because you as the investor don't understand the language. And are then told that you have no choice but to accept second rate finish at top notch prices! Robin, you are welcome to pm me. If I can help you I will. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=478 Relocation and Moving Today I have spoken with foriegners and natives of Bulgaria. It makes me really sad. To hear ordinary people who have made their money through hard work and have come here to retire. Yet, for once in they're lives they do not speak of pounds or leva, they speak of thousands and in thousands. The amounts they have given to rogue people. This is just an insult to all the 'just and true people' I have met here. And there are many. Too start with if anyone needs a lawyer, who speaks english, in the Bourgas area, I will be happy to email you his details. Bulgaria, is a great country. But just like any other country where there are pioneers there are cowboys!! Best of luck to all that visit her!!! http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=479 Relocation and Moving Hi there everyone, my name is Andy and we are moving to Rousse around the middle of September and will be looking for work shotrly thereafter. I have been plumbing for approx 30yrs and have been self employed in the U.K. covering the whole of Yorkshire and am currently employed on the Isle of Man. I have my C.O.R.G.I. card and have done domestic, commercial and some industrial. I prefer to stick to my own trade but will tackle most jobs on my own properties. Anyone is welcome to come and view my work on my house anytime after we land. I am willing to travel to work. Any response about finding work or to view a job would be gratefully recieved. Thanks for reading this and hope to see you soon. Regards Andy. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=464 Relocation and Moving Hi RailwayChildren. There are at least four supermarket chains here in Bourgas not counting, Metro. Piccadilly, Billa, Sara (? I'm not sure of spelling), and EuroMarket. To name but four. There is a bulgarian cash & carry and a number of fresh veg & fruit marketeers. Plus the fish market and meat market. All really civillised, You won't like it :D Note a barcode site. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=464 Relocation and Moving thanks everyone for telling me about food in Bg, now I have another question, is it better for me to buy a car in Bg or buy one in Uk LHD and drive it over, would it be expensive to regiter. Thanks :o http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=464 Relocation and Moving Railwaychildren, Can only speak personally, but I'd buy a car over here. Some excellent 2nd hand deals to be found. look for a good mechanic in your area, MUCH cheaper than the UK. Ask him to inspect any car you find for defects, and pay him a small fee for his trouble. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=479 Relocation and Moving I forming new business in Varna and seeking active plumber to work with me for new houses projects. It could turn around into long term contract. It would involves JCB. Would prospective person, email your CV/resume and explain why I should hire you. Richard Payne 9000 Varna. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=491 Relocation and Moving Hi All, We are taking our beloved dogs to Bg with the pet passport scheme, does anyone know if there is any vets in Burgas and if so do they speak english. Thanks :?: :) http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=478 Relocation and Moving I couldn't agree with your sentiments more! We too have been ripped off in one way or another, but goodness will always prevail. We live in a beautiful small village, where the people have shown us nothing but kindness,helpfulness,companionship and compassion, they have taken us under their wings and allowed us to understand the goodness of the true and honest Bulgarian people. Without them I don't know how we would have survived. And all of this without a single leva changing hands. Allowing us to keep our dream alive. Good luck to everyone out there and I hope you are as lucky in your village as I am in mine. http://www.expatinbulgaria.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=495 Relocation and Moving I am not sure if this has been posted before, so I apologise in advance if it has. The following is a link to The Bulgarian Law Portal. It has a comprhensive list in english, of Lawyers, solicitors through out Bulgaria. Some even include email addresses. Some people out there might find it useful. http://lex.bg