Lived here in Bulgaria since 2018 (from the USA). Learning Bulgarian changes the experience. Also Bulgaria has much higher quality of food where as Dubai must import everything. Another great thing about Bulgaria is the low amount of violent crime.
Dubai is 3 months of summer and 9 months of hell. I prefer cooler summer weather and plenty of trees. Planning to move to Sofia from Bucharest next year for this reason...I like Romania but any place that has a whole month over 35 each summer isn't for me long term.
I would imagine learning Bulgarian would help a lot and if I thought it was my top place aside from that I'd learn it but it's not and the language is sufficiently obscure not to prioritize it. I strongly disagree re quality of food. Bulgaria has decent mid range food but not high end, the quality of beef for example is the worst I've found anywhere in the world. Locally produced fruits and vegetables are decent during the growing season but that's quite limited for selection. Want sushi in Bulgaria it's mediocre, Thai options limited, Indian options limited, French or Spanish or Mexican options limited. Dubai is far from the best in the world for food but you can get practically anything there and there's tons of really excellent food. Bulgaria is indeed quite safe but Dubai makes it look dangerous by comparison the crime is virtually non existent
If you prefer cooler weather and lots of trees yes Dubai isn't for you though the 3 & 9 months is an exaggeration I find it's quite good for about 7-8 months per year then again I'm happy with it being warm
@@OffshoreCitizen I live in East Bulgaria and away from Sofia in a smaller town. GMO is banned here, as well as various other products that are legal in the west. The yogurt and cheese here are the best in the world, and yeah if you're looking for foreign food, of course it isn't going to be good. You're in Bulgaria! Eat Bulgarian food, they know how to make it the best. Schkemba ciorba, tarator, sach, etc. The fruits and vegetables are also fresh and usually produced locally if you eat seasonal (more meats in the winter and preserved food). Real high end food is natural and not processed. I guarantee you in Dubai they do not do the same checks as the EU for freshness. I won't disagree about steaks in Bulgaria if that's your thing, but it never has been historically a part of their cuisine. Much more pork, lamb, and chicken. As for Bulgarian, I learned Russian which helped me with Bulgarian and Bulgarian helps with Russian. Lots of Russians in Dubai.....good luck there by the way
Bulgaria is fantastic. I am hoping to retire there. Class D visa should be obtainable for me because pension. Comparing Dubai to Sofia is just so wrong. Those 24 hour gyms? Not a draw, a nice walk around Sofia is more to my liking.
Comparing them isn't wrong for him but it might be for you, it all depends on your values and priorities. De gustibus non est disputandum. If you like it there, go for it, hope it works out for you and that you have a wonderful retirement!
I just moved to Bansko, Bulgaria. Really enjoying it so far. Since it's a small ski town plenty of English speakers here. Made sense for me as already an EU citizen and love hiking and the outdoors too!
Great choice, I'm living in Plovdiv, but planning to check out Bansko come spring. Plovdiv has some nice in-city hiking, but the mountains are a bit far away for my taste (about 10 km). I may get a bicycle though, which should do wonders as far as closing the gap between me and the mountains for quick hikes.
@@Scolopente I am Swiss.... So I liked very much to watch several videos about Bansko! BUT the negative point is that in 2025 Bulgaria is going to enter in the EU !!! So stupid to like beeing part of the EU ! Just the hell and getting from bad to worse and worse !
@@entresolysombra5245 I just came back from Bansko and Bania. Great places, but I agree with you on the EU comment. Nothing good will come out of the USSR 2.0
Just a comment regarding the weather. Sofia is at high elevations ~ 600 meters. It's a mountainous city. Plovdiv, the second largest city and a cultural capital, and Burgas, the 4th largest city, both feature a humid subtropical climate. Literally, all of Southern Bulgaria's lowlands feature either a Mediterranean (Primorsko/Sandanski) or Humid Subtropical climate. You can find wild olives, pomegranate, palm trees and kiwis growing outside w/o any winter protection. 2200-2800 annual sunshine hours. That's not cold. So the author has a rather limited understanding of Bulgaria; his views are only based on living in Sofia. This is like saying - America is cold because New York has bad weather.
You totally lost me at 'Bulgaria is cold'. Bulgarian weather is basically the same as Spanish weather, just on the south-eastern part of the continent. Enjoying a nice, refreshing Mojito while typing this comment btw. It's October 14 and the temperature outside is about 27 degrees Celsius.
I really disliked Sofia. I was there only 5 days. People were very aggressive and rude. Customer service does not exist. I was approached by prostitutes several times.( I’m 70!) I would never return. They are still recovering from Soviet mentality.
Many parts in Bulgaria have the coldest winter in all of Europe, other than NE Europe, colder than London, Dublin, Oslo, Stockholm....The reason - high altitude, mountains and no see around... Today 22 October at midnight - 4 deg.C, colder than London, Dublin, even ...Moscow.
As Bulgarian who went to Dubai ones for vacation i can only say this. Dubai is a soulless place of useless big buildings, can't compared to even 1 Bulgaria village.
I met a load of Peace Corps Americans way back in Bulgaria and it was very clear that they were a square peg in a round hole,all of them....... another thing I would say is like most capital cities Sofia is a little different to the rest of BG. Each to their own, for me Dubai is the last place I would ever want to visit never mind live, but thats the beauty of our realm.
So I am a Bulgarian and judging by the title was curious to understand if this was going to be one of those trash-talking videos about our country. Turned out it's quite a positive video and mentioning some of the benefits that we have living here is great! Surely, not ideal, there are no ideal or perfect places despite you having mentioned such. I've traveled around and have lived abroad in Slovakia and do not consider relocating anytime soon. Not for the moment, at least. Home is a dear place.
I'm originally from Varna, but lived in Toronto my whole life (30 years). My wife and I moved to Varna in 2021 to get out of shithole Toronto and I'm literally scratching my head when you say Bulgaria is far surpassed by the conveniences in other places. I have the opposite experience, with the exception of the lack of Amazon (boohoo, i get emag, ozone and a million other online stores) and the couriers will literally show up at my door with card processors if needed and wait to see if I'm happy with my purchase. From a social and lifestyle perspective, its far more comfortable and safe going out here as, you probably know, Toronto and its I'm-like-new-york-right?-little-man-syndrome makes going out a bullshit overpriced pseudo-trendy experience. I can literally sit at a table on the beach here without even greeting a restaurant host. Seeing a doctor or specialist is waaaaay faster here than in Canada, I recently wanted to see a dermo and had an appointment within an hour, and for that same day. Paying my bills is super easy here, with the exception of the whole weird thing of water meter people coming to my door. In BG you have access to amazing beaches, winter fun in the mountains, amazing mineral spas and great well-rounded seasons (Varna > Sofia, I know), and overall way better "nature stuff" than in a lot of other countries. On top of that, the country isn't that large so visiting those places is easy af. I literally can't think of a single thing I miss, other than my close friends, about living in Canada. On top of all that, judging by how Canadians handled covid, and how people here in BG behaved, I know who I want to be around the next time the world loses its mind (possibly this winter). I won't even go into the fact that I was able to buy a large fully paid off apartment and live mortgage free. To your point, I did have to hunt quite a bit to find the quality and size/view that I wanted, but hey, I hunted even longer in Toronto to avoid most of the new shit-layout, low quality WAY overpriced builds in TO. I won't get into any of the other FAR lower costs such as >10X cheaper car insurance. It does help that I'm completely fluent in Bulgarian and have family here, but we're talking general conveniences. Oh and you're right taxis in Sofia are basically double what they cost in Varna.
Glad you like it. Will disagree about the quality of Bulgarian beaches they are pretty mediocre though better than nothing I suppose. Generally wouldn't be limiting contrasts to Toronto, there's a whole world out there. Canadian healthcare is pretty garbage, though BG healthcare lacks many quality specialists and alternative healthcare is quite limited. Conveniences are definitely not fantastic in BG compared with many places, in general there's simply far fewer options available. If what you're looking for fits within the range of what's offered it's fine but the market is too small to accommodate a much larger range. This goes for everything from food to electronics to jewelry and clothing to housing. All of these places is a matter of values, there are many people for whom Bulgaria is a great fit and if you're one that's fantastic, definitely enjoy it. For me I prefer some other parts of the world but not everyone is in the same situation as I am or have the same values and that's part of what makes life interesting.
Varna climate has a unique blend of Mediterranean influences, It offers residents and visitors a year-round good weather even in winter.The weather in Varna is a standout feature that draws people to this region. Summers in Varna are warm and sunny, Winters in Varna are mild, and barely snowy maybe once in a blue moon. One of the intriguing aspects of Varna's climate is its suitability for subtropical crops. The combination of mild winters and warm summers creates an environment where a variety of subtropical and Mediterranean fruits and vegetables can flourish. Olive trees, figs,pomegrante and even some exotic plant species.The Black Sea coast's moderating effect on temperatures helps protect these crops from extreme cold in the winter, making it possible to cultivate them in areas that might otherwise be unsuitable for subtropical agriculture. The Black Sea coast make it an attractive destination and a promising region for those with a passion for agriculture. It's a place where the best of both worlds converge, making Varna a captivating destination for all seasons. Your statement @OffshoreCitizen captures a negative perspective on weather and life in general. It suggests that instead of complaining about unfavorable weather conditions, people can find ways to make the most of the situation and adapt their activities accordingly. This adaptable and optimistic attitude can be valuable in various aspects of life, helping individuals overcome challenges. About the beaches, while the quality and uniqueness of a beach experience can vary from person to person and depend on individual preferences, Varna's beaches generally receive positive reviews for their beauty and amenities.The reasons why people like the beaches in Bulgaria are because they have preserved natural beauty unlike other countries.
It is great that you have found the place to develop your endeavours. But, honestly, switching from Bulgaria to Dubai suggest a very high level of randomness in your choice. I cannot even think of business opportunities overlap between the 2 countries.
@@OffshoreCitizen I just don't get how you can handle the Dubai weather. But if you're traveling a lot, then I get it. I mean, it hits 47 'C sometimes in summer. Imagine the AC costs if electricity costs increase.
Dubai is a downgrade in terms of quality of life. Horribly planned city, dust and air pollution, extreme heat, no citizenship or permanent residency, dubious legal system and protections. You are always a second class citizen to a local.
Some fair points. The city is actually not too bad in terms of planning. I was back this year for the first time in 4 years and the roads were noticeably busier, so it is starting to show a little in terms of infrastructure challenges. On the plus side, the roads are MUCH better quality than almost anywhere else on earth. Weather is great 8 months a year and truthfully most people with the $$ leave for the other 4 months. Fortunately it is summer in the northern hemisphere during those 4 months, so there is no end of choices on where to go. The legal system concerns are a little overblown. There were some high profile cases in the past that highlighted a rather draconian approach. If you're living your life with integrity and honesty, there is little to be worried about. The upside is that I can stroll down any street at 3:00AM, wearing a $50,000 watch, and nothing bad is going to happen. Try that in the U.S. or Europe. As for being second class, true. I notice it when I'm there. It is one of the reasons I would probably not choose to live there year-round. Nowadays though, there are so many people from around the world, that it is becoming less and less of a thing. You seldom even interact with locals as they are such a small minority of the population.
Really. Dubai seems to be a weird place to me - foreign workers doing all the work, pockets of religious extremism, no drinking. Also, I think if you were a woman, you might re-think UAE..
I've never noticed being treated like or feeling like a second class citizen. Actually quite the opposite as I've described in other videos in Dubai I feel like a customer they want my business whereas in places like Europe and North America you're a resource to be exploited
I was in Dubai for business ....but that is definitely a place I wouldn't like to live, the same with London /UK/.. . Bulgaria in my opinion is absolutely the opposite.❤
I know pretty much foreigners in Bulgaria and most of the half are very happy there. The half of the other half are happy okay and the rest are moving away after spending some time. Just personal observations. If a foreign person or family fit with locals they feel very well. The language is not a real barrier. A lot of people talk English, especially the youngest and up to 40. You can find many foreigners in small towns or even villages, moving away from the world crowd. So Bulgaria is not for everyone. But the ones that adapt to it are truly happy. 😃
I often hear people say....'you want to live there, but what about....insert someone else's projection here......' I agree with you that there is no perfect place and I'm pursuing the path of less than perfect places that all add up to a good life.
loved the way how you put it from all angels. I went through the same thought process and moved from UAE to turkey. but my circumstances are different. Good luck in Dubai.
Thanks for your reply. I am in Gaziosmanpasa area. I moved to turkey bus of better quality and less commercial med care. In Dubai you can't afford to get sick, I am 61. Worked 16 years in Dubai, now retired.
@lorenk.775 Deutschland, not Germany, not Almanya. أردن (Urdun), not Jordan. Россия ( Raseeya), not Russia, Sverige, not Sweden, der Schweiz, not Switzerland, Suomi, not Finland..... if we start that stupid game, where are we gonna end up?! So, yeah, Turkey. But you guys can call it whatever you like calling it.
I lived in Ukraine and Poland on around $1600 per month total. Then considered Moldova or Romania, and before that, an income visa in Spain. Now I'm in California spending 7 times as much😮
No reason one could not stay in Dubai indefinitely. The golden visa is renewable every 10 years if you have the $$ requirements nailed down (RE investment). If you enjoy the lifestyle there, easy choice. But even if your tastes change and you want something a little more laid-back, having Dubai as your tax home might be well worth considering at any age. Even if you're retired, that investment portfolio/pension is going to be taxable in most places.
Freshly those are problems best not considered today. I never intend to retire and the world will change so much by then it's a fool's errand to try to predict what it will look like by then or if it will even be around. 30 years ago no one would have considered Dubai at all today it's one of the greatest cities in earth. What is coming that you can't see? The best path is to invest in optionality and be flexible
@@OffshoreCitizen Thanks for the reply, but at least we need one country where we can settle permanently, what will be your preference in that case, considering forex & crypto as your main source of income?
@@gauravpatil1867 He already answered your question according to his preference on life. You repeating your preference and question is irritating and achieves nothing. Learn to listen!
Another interesting discussion Michael thank you for sharing your experiences and insights. It probably comes down to deciding what you can live with.... I remember watching a sandstorm sweep in engulfing Dubai one afternoon thinking how beautiful it looked till I tried to go out shopping and instantly regretted it. Friends of my partner were part of a large English expat group when one couple were arrested for having a still. The couple with the still were flogged and did years in prison and then started going after their "friends". Everyone on that circle abandoned their lives there and jumped on planes to escape leaving cars, properties, yachts, bank accounts... In April we were loving staying in Sofia and had a short trip to Plovdiv and to not relive that drama basically experienced the underworld of Bulgaria...but were helped by the kind and loyal locals and expat community. Upon reflection it's how well informed and supported by expat groups and supportive locals makes the difference where ever one chooses to make a new life...
Your comments are not unlike other muslim-majority countries that have flogging. Someone sent me a video the other day that was posted on TH-cam of a flogging session in Indonesia I think it was. It was absolutely horrifying to watch these things. I have heard that people have abandoned all kinds of property for other reasons. They also have debtors prison in Dubai, and if you get into any dispute with locals, I heard they will just throw the book at you irrespective of the equities. So if you go to a place like that you have to watch your p's and q's, and be over cautious about everything. I don't know if I'd want to live a life like that especially when it's normal to sometimes be upset shout illegal I understand in Dubai. Europe seems to me to be a much more normal place to be, it's also democratic so I try to frown on dictatorships.
Thanks for sharing your story about iving in Bulgaria. That proximity to other European countries is appealing. Nice to hear you mention the pros and cons of living in Sofia. I liked your perspective about finding the ideal place to live based on one's individual preferences. Dubai has such an appeal to it - just not a fan of those high gulf temperatures. What colder weather city would you move to as a base other then selecting a balkan region country?
Well the thing is for the most part even in the summer I don't notice the heat in Dubai that much because I spend the time inside where it's all air conditioned or I like to go swimming so it's not nearly as bad as one might believe if that's how you spend the time. If you need to be outside then yes it's dreadful. As for other bases for my personal preference I like south east Asia though there you get the humidity. Portugal is popular with a lot of people though a bit trickier to optimize there's a reason it's popular.
I setup a company and Bulgaria and I kind of regret it. After several trips there, I have decided I don’t want to live there, and getting residency as an American is a pain. Without residency, my company cannot easily use revolut or Google Ads. Without residency, the border guards ask me a bunch of questions every time I go through passport control. Bulgaria doesn’t have a totalization agreement with the US, unlike Romania or Czech Republic. My Bulgarian bank has a tedious website and requires me to carry an Android phone to authorize CC payments. They cannot send SMSs to foreign phone numbers and they are missing an app on iOS. I struggled to hire good IT people there which maybe was just bad luck. I found it easier to hire good people in other countries. There are definitely good things about Bulgaria but for me, it’s not my forever place.
Hmm which bank were you using? Generally I'd avoid sms as a 2FA method vs email or an app but the banks I've used have iOS and Android apps The talent pool isn't very deep but depends what you're looking for, costs tend to be pretty good
@@OffshoreCitizen Raiffeisen which became KBC which became UBB. You can confirm wires using their Token app on iOS, but you cannot confirm credit card transactions. For CC, they send an SMS. But the SMS only works for Bulgarian numbers. Prepaid Bulgarian SIM cards don’t work outside of Bulgaria, and I refuse to get a postpaid SIM for the sole purpose of confirming CC transactions. On Android, the bank has an app called DigiPay which can confirm CC transactions. On iOS this app does not exist (not from the same bank). I asked why there’s no app for this on iOS. They said it’s because they support Apple Pay instead. But most online retailers don’t accept Apple Pay. So I’m forced to carry around an old Android phone. I agree, costs in Bulgaria are pretty good!
If you are able to change banks and want to do so, DSK Banka supports foreign phone numbers, at least they support Norwegian ones. However, I don't know if they have proper 2FA - I'm just using SMS. But it's OK for me, because I mostly use Revolut and such.
Good summary. Good beef is indeed hard to find. Cost of living was very low before Covid, now I'd say just "low". Sofia is a bit chilly compared to other Bulgarian cities but not a huge difference. Similarly to Bucharest traffic is exploding in recent years but public transport is of decent quality, especially metro.
Got some extra thoughts after experiencing winter in Bulgaria and thinking about language: - I never intended to learn Bulgarian, and it feels very high investment while only giving high returns if you intend to stay here the rest of your life. - In Malaysia, I felt less like a foreigner ironically, because English really felt like the local language! I currently can feel at home in Norway, Japan (fluent), Malaysia. But whereas I do sometimes develop a feeling of being "truly at home" in Bulgaria (esp. during summer!), I get completely thrown off balance when someone speaks to me in Bulgarian, which happens now and again. I'm considering just studying Bulgarian more, but a part of me acstually wants to invest time into Spanish if I'm going to invest heavily into any foreign language. It's all really kinda tricky! On the other hand, I basically do live online and I'm constantly connected, so I don't mind being a weirdo who doesn't speak the language much. I'm also considering just listening to TV all the time and also studying the language. I'm pretty sure in 20 years from now English will be everywhere in Bulgaria, comparable to today's Norway or maybe even The Netherlands. Young people in Bulgaria often speak amazing English without a noticeable accent, probably due to watching movies with subtitles, influence from online English content, etc. I also think Dubai would feel a bit more like home, but the hot season just seems way too hot unless I'm living real close to the metro. Winter here in Plovdiv is not as bad as feared - actually experienced 21 'C on Xmas eve, and we've had plenty of days of around 10-15 'C recently. I feel more at home in Japan because I have been heavily exposed to the culture. In Bulgaria I sometimes feel like I'm interacting artificially with a different culture, because I am not sufficiently experienced-immersed and well-versed in the language. It's all kinda confusing, but it looks like my taxes will be low-ish here and I can't wait to see what I end up paying! But I see myself moving on to a place where English is the primary language in the future, as long as the taxes are within reason. Or of course, I may invest in Spanish heavily and that will open up all of Latin America, which could be truly exciting. Bulgaria's upcoming accession to Schengen is a nice thing, but how may EU apply pressure to Eastern Europe with regards to taxation going forward? Or will perhaps those countries independently choose to imitate Western Europe wrt. progressive taxation? If that happens, I will certainly be on my way to another country again, and any Herculean efforts into learning Bulgarian will suddenly seem like a waste, since have to learn yet another language. Spanish is the ultimate language to learn right now for a digital nomad, no doubt in my opinion! But I'll stay here in Bulgaria for now and appreciate the country because I am still just starting out on my journey to save on taxes. If it all pans out, I'll relish that while perhaps visiting a few countries around the world to see if e.g. English (or Spanish) changes the way I see myself as a member of the society. Maybe I should start learning Spanish now, focusing on Latin American varieties!
A very interesting video Michael as the Dubai / Balkan combo is what a lot of us europeans gravitate towards if we dont have the millions to play the monaco game. Looks very much like Dubai is the go to 'hub' where we can establish a home for 3 to 8 months of the year and then divide up the other time by carefully avoiding triggering residency in other european countries and not getting burned to a crisp in summer. I visited Bulgaria 20 years ago when it was still emerging. one of the first memories I had was one seeing a middle age woman crouch and take a dump in a central Sofia park bush. The hotel we stayed in at the time had a strip club on the top floor, on the second day the elevators went out of service and we have a 9 floor walk up to our rooms. we also took a road trip through the 'valley of the roses' and the road was so bad we broke one of the wheels of our van. I am sure it has improved vastly in the last 20 years but I have fond memories from back then.
Ya, people don't take shits in the street here, nor did they 20/30 years ago. I have a story about a crackhead woman that was squirting breast milk at people at a mall in Toronto, and plenty of other stories about sketchy hotels and sketchy people. Plain and simply, you stayed at a dump and ran into a crazy person, not very relevant to the conversation at large.
What is so "very interesting" about this video? He mostly kept saying things like (paraphrasing) "choose what you like the most", "some people don't speak English", and inconsequential remarks about his marital situation. The fact that his bare statements Bulgaria remind you of your pleasant experience there doesn't render this video interesting, let alone thoughtful.
I also think there is no ideal one place for everything. That's an industrial age idea. There is nothing stopping you from getting your fries from McDonald's, your burger from Burger King, and the shake from Wendy's. We live in a kind of à la carte world
One of the most ridiculous videos I ever saw. The level of egoism, the entitlement is unbelievable. How can someone can live such a hedonistic life is beyond my understanding. A life of taking, never contributing on any level, no legacy except greed and comfort.... Disgusting!
As a south African I want to immigrate to the middle east Do you think working towards a uk/irish (plus non dom) passport is a good decision before moving to the middle east?
with a UK/Irish passport you will be positively differentiated in the middle east compared to a lower grade passport holder, so 100% go for it (e.g. better salary for same job, just because you have Anglo-Saxon passport)
Out of curiousity, i was reading about polish taxes on pwc and i saw a part about a lump sum tax on foreign income for around 60k euros. Although it seems to exclude controlled foreign corporations for some reason. Also apparently the reporting requirements are really low. Whats your opinions on this?
If you're making enough money, can qualify the income and like Poland it can be a good way to go. Polish tax and tax authorities tend to be very bureaucratic but that program is definitely competitive with the Italian and Greek programs, I'll make a video about it in the future
Why i left Bulgaria. Five mins in and I've been told his name multiple times. He told me about his wife and loads of lame info about his life that nobody wants to know. Hes told me about other counties and why i might want to live in those places, but nothing about leaving Bulgaria Lay off the Ritalin and stimulants, you cant get a sentence out your mouth with out slurring. You start the next sentence before youve got the last one out your mouth. Your all over the place. I think your wife was looking for different countries to get away from you 😂 Sorry but 5 mins listerning to you was 4mins 55 seconds too many for me. I think you gave me ADHD.
Too far from reality! Bulgaria is a multidimensional choice, which the flat people (even though well-educated) cannot understand... But I made it for myself!
Hi Michael, I do remember your Bulgaria trade representative visa experience video you shared a few years back, where you mentioned that you can help also with finding the required active company which is mandatory for a trade representative visa. Is that offer still available? Cheers 🍻
I am Bulgarian living in the UK. Being a foreigner in Bulgaria, you better stay in one of the bigger cities, like Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas, or Sofia. Not because you must live in a city, but for practical reasons, like having social life, having other expats around available, having somebody to translate and interpret for you in formal cases, having libraries, theatres, restaurants, etc. Small villages do have charm and appeal, but you will be starved socially, and probably will be helpless if you need translation services. Do not underestimate that as a foreigner, you will have low availability of jobs suitable for your soft skills.
I'm living in Sofia as we speak. Loads of pros and cons. But compared with rest of Europe, Bulgaria is still cheap which makes the country quite attractive. The weather could be better, I agree.
@@Chris-gs7cq Well, Sofia is surrounded by the huge Vitosha mountain and hence being cooler and you can escape there in 15min as it is a really cool place. Sofia also has huge parks that even in the summer you can always seek the shade within a short walk. South Park is definitely one of the best and not so far away from the city centre. Sofia is also not far from the Greek Sea and less than 4 hours to the Black Sea and around 7 hours to Istanbul. So there is a huge variety. Bucharest though has nicer architecture and feels much more urban. Sofia is more chilled and relaxed. In general, if you plan to move to Sofia always look at the southern neighbourhoods as they are more developed. Finally, Sofia has a really good metro system and ridiculously cheap. Trip from the airport to any place in Sofia is 0,80€.
When it comes to convenience I think you have higher expectations than most people. That is not a bad thing of course as its personal preference. But this was an interesting perspective on a foreigner. One of the biggest issues for immigrants here I think is indeed the language. Most people would try to be helpful but they dont know the language.
I would like to know about the real estate and how the country is for real estate investing. I am getting a citizenship by descent. I don’t know how long that’s going to take but I’ve been meeting other people that live in Bulgaria and possibly maybe even doing business with them before I even get there. Thank you for the insightful information truly appreciated.
So what are your other places Michael? I am thinking of a trifecta approach for myself. I want to get out of the Canadian tax net, more and more every day when I see how stupidly the money is used. I will have business interests here, so not being on the other side of the world year-round would certainly be helpful. Not just the long flights but the time difference might get old fast. My working plan is Dubai from mid-October to March 1. Puerto Vallarta for March, April, and May. 10 days of travel at the start of June (Japan/North America), then Vancouver for their summer. That keeps a little bit of time in the home country. Then September 1st to mid-October would be various destinations in Europe. So much to see there. The weather is still good in Europe, but not oppressively hot. The crowds are thinning. Great time to explore Europe before heading back to Dubai to start the cycle again. With Dubai's newer 90 day approach to tax residency, that should sort out a large part of the tax problem. The inclusion of Mexico is to ensure easy access to Canada for business reasons without getting the CRA re-involved in my life (staying well under the 6 months). The weather outcome is nearly ideal year-round with plenty of sunshine and not too crazy hot temps. I have never seen the point of living somewhere that one needs to be hermetically sealed in an air conditioned room. To me that is only a slight upgrade from a similar room in a Canadian winter where we have the heat on. I love to have the windows open when I'm working at the computer, or better yet, be outside. Can't imagine that working out well in Dubai in July. Anyway, let's hope the world stays sane long enough to finish pulling the plan together!
Keep in mind being tax resident in Dubai doesn't make you non resident anywhere else especially Canada given it's essentially impossible to have the Canada UAE tax treaty apply. This being said if you're careful to severe your ties to Canada it could be fine. I tend to like Europe in the summers lots of great places there. Travel to Canada and US to see friends and family, then trips throughout the year to other areas especially time in Asia.
@@OffshoreCitizen Yes, good point. I will make sure to tick the boxes so as to leave no doubt that Dubai residency is solid. The plan is to set up a Dubai off-shore corp, then contract it to the Canadian corp. Within the confines of transfer pricing regulations of course. Any profits that remain in the Canadian corp (that cannot be shifted to the Dubai corp) will just have to go as salary and bonuses. Should bring the profit of the Canadian corp down to zero. The 25% withholding taxes on personal income will be my only contribution to the Canadian regime. At least a portion of the whole thing will be tax-free, and of course tax-free future investment gains on the money once liberated from the CRA's grasp. Can't see any way to fully shield the income generated in Canada as I would be deemed to have a PE in Canada. Not a zero percent tax rate, but when all is said and done, hopefully ~10%. Perhaps I will reach out next year and see if you have any thoughts once I've pulled together a more definite plan.
That was a very interesting post. I'm also Canadian, and I left about 13 years ago mainly because of the high tax, the terrible weather, and the insane difficulty in accessing healthcare. I moved 13 years ago to Israel from Canada and have no tax to pay for the first 10 years, of course that's over now and it's time to go somewhere else with my EU passport. Healthcare though is really excellent here, you're able to get the best of health care able to see professors in a day or two under the private system and access major operations within a week or two. Some people in Canada are waiting three four and five years for back surgery, and now they have to leave the country and pay a couple of hundred thousand USD to get an operation in the states are perhaps maybe a little cheaper to go to Europe. I know in the hospital I was at in Israel there was an awful lot of foreign residents mostly from Ukraine and Russia who came for back surgery. They would keep them in the hospital for 13 days just to make sure everything was okay and then they would whisk them off back to their home country and communicate on WhatsApp if there were any issues. You know when you're sitting in a country like Canada freezing your balls off, and paying 54% tax, you have to wonder is there a better way? You may want to analyze the rules on transfer pricing. They have become very onerous of late, and you will have severe difficulty in convincing cra that there is a bonafide operation enabling you to do transfer pricing. Even major corporations like Google that put their IP in Ireland to pay 4% tax and income and charge all the subsidiaries licensing now have to pay local taxes on their operations in each individual country. Of course that was too well enable the oecd to collect more taxes. But when you get an audit, they can really be brutal. Keep that in mind.
Interesting post. Personally I'd take Bulgaria over UAE anyday. I like seasons and nature. To be able to buy groceries or run on a treadmill at 3am doesn't appeal!! Dubai is too bling bling for me I prefer my brutalist architecture!
But in Sofia in every neighborhood there 24h shops. There used to be 24h fantastiko and magazin 345. Plus tons of corner shops. Open all year long , including Sunday. Therefore I was puzzled when he said there aren't shops open at night. Not sure about gyms.
Well Michael, if it was so good for you as you described, it would remain one of your "satellite places" around your life in the UAE. People who have moved location, town, country many times, myself included, find it mentally and emotionally easy to do it again. This kind of make them not root down too deeply. Most people have strong sense of belonging and connection with where they're born and grew up so they find their place of happiness there, or the thought of not being there just too heavy to bear.
On 30 December 2023, the Council unanimously agreed on the accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the Schengen area. Thus, as of 31 March 2024, both Member States will start applying Schengen rules.
A small correction, Bulgaria being part of EU means English is supposed to be the 2nd official language there, as reflected in the banks you went later on, therefore you don't necessarily need to learn the local language there or any other part of EU, though in some countries they don't prefer the English there and prefer foreigners learn the local language, such as in most of Italy and some parts of France.
There's no EU member which officially speaks english language as native. So the first second language of bulgarians should be american, not english. And the second second - russian of course. Unless if you are from this minority (1/6 of entire population) speaking turkish. Which is different from the turkish in Turkey.. At least we have google translate and middle fingers.
@@OffshoreCitizen learning another language is not as easy as some people think, perhaps in a very basic level with confident facial expressions, which will work primarily for the purpose of trying to impress a girlfriend with worldliness and intelligence, however it works poorly for communication
I'm in Plovdiv, Bulgaria now, as usual. Winter is about to hit, thinking about exploring somewhere. But it's still 1000x nicer than Norwegian winter. The great thing about Plovdiv is very little wind, and a couple of decades warmer than Sofia. Rain is really rare. Weather-wise it's almost a 10/10 all year. I'd say a 6/10 in winter, but still one of the mildest places to experience 0'C or lower in the world. I'm glad I'm not in Varna this autumn/winter, what with their Norwegian wind speed.
I think Italy is outstanding for part of the year though don't get into their tax net I really like Dubai it offers a great life I'd like to get a beach house somewhere but haven't decided where yet. I've always had this view that I'd like a place in a great city, an estate somewhere more peaceful and a beach house. I find more and more it's appealing to be able to bring friends and family to a great place and spend time with them so that's a major consideration
@@OffshoreCitizen I couldn't agree more. Italy makes for a great hub in Europe. It's well-located making it easy to road trip to many destinations. Mountains and sea just a few hours between each other if even that. I too am looking for that beach place, so let us know when you find it!
@@OffshoreCitizen I wish you'd talk about "surviving the desert" in Dubai. I could not even see myself visiting Dubai except for winter. I can handle 34-ish 'C with no issues, but 40 'C is not gonna get me to climb even a hill (I considered doing so in Plovdiv, but decided not to)
It's amazing how people describe the rich Gulf countries as "a great place to live". These countries are governed by theocracies, and their laws are medieval. Especially for women.
I'd encourage you to actually spend time rather than judging by media narratives. What you're describing is simply not the factual on the ground reality
We want to travel the world and we are not sure where to start as we do have 2 small dogs and own our own online business. Maybe Bulgaria would be a good place to start? How is the healthcare system there along with cost.
I wanted to hear it but you seem to beat around the bush and stretch it far too long, I don't have 17 minutes for your video, you could have summed that up and made it a lot shorter!
I think for most people it's less liveable due to weather. Appealing for people from UK who want to be close to London but doesn't offer a lot domestically If you're gong to consider Isle of Man should also consider Jersey
All I got was that you dont like it because you failed to integrate :) Good luck in Dubai :) let me know how it goes when they take your passport and make your work there :)
Dubai offers 100x more in terms of conveniences, lifestyle and networking This is a matter of taste though I value all the stuff that a modern first world city brings, Cyprus is too rural for me to live there but for others it's great. I also don't necessarily view being in the EU as a plus unless it makes it easier to relocate (only for EU citizens) or you can get some kind of permanent status out of it and Cyprus doesn't like to give away their citizenship by naturalization. So it's too each their own. I often suggest Cyprus as an option to clients and some move there though it's much less popular than Portugal etc
Man, stay in your Dubai!! Dubai: A big desert, no environment, huge buildings.. is that the dream life? Life is not only a business, beef and sushi! My opinion...So enjoy your life in Dubai! Obviously you don't know anything about my country!
Hey Michael, I like your perspective on this. I agree that convenience and ease of life are major concerns when choosing a location. Language can be a huge barrier and drastically affect your experience. Coming from an English background, I think I would only want places that have a decent amount of English speakers. Of course, not for everyone, but thats just me. Having said that, what are your thoughts on Saudi? They seem to be really easing on the rules and becoming more like Dubai. Still a ways away, but moving in the right direction. They certainly have the financial horsepower to achieve incredible things similar to Dubai.
Saudi is apparently an incredible place to make money right now so clients tell me. Some really cool tourist spots too. I can't figure out why anyone would live there over Dubai yet though. Same with Qatar and Bahrain both impressive places but lagging behind UAE by 5-10 years
This particular vlog He is rather amusing to me because I'm a senior and getting married to a European who exactly wants more freedom and flexibility in moving and setting up a local business. I actually wanted to consult with you in this regard. I'm managing some transitional details first. Thanks for all your videos. An American...
First! And welcome back; been wondering where you were - I hope all is well. Having now watched the first 6 minutes, I have a question. As I consider moving overseas, it seems that we have "too much stuff" (a not uncommon American phenomenon) - even with realizing that a significant portion of it will not come...how do you deal with that? (For example, I have more than a few musical instruments.) Do you just keep your computer and some clothes and move to various places? Keep in mind also that I am nowhere near the financial strata where you are (major props to you), so that is a factor...but I would think this is a question that applies to one degree or another to many people.
@@OffshoreCitizen Having now watched the first 6 minutes, I have a question. As I consider moving overseas, it seems that we have "too much stuff" (a not uncommon American phenomenon) - even with realizing that a significant portion of it will not come...how do you deal with that? (For example, I have more than a few musical instruments.) Do you just keep your computer and some clothes and move to various places? Keep in mind also that I am nowhere near the financial strata where you are (major props to you), so that is a factor...but I would think this is a question that applies to one degree or another to many people.
Bulgaria and Sofia airport is dreadful for European flight connections. Ive lived hear for the last 8 years and trying to meet friends from uk elsewhere in Europe is a constant headache meaning id usually need connecting flights There is a lot more high end apartment buildings now but unless you earn €100k after tax or have €600k cash you cant afford to live there
I lived in Bulgaria for past two years and all I can say is: complete shit show. 1. Bureaucracy: Bulgaria's bureaucratic processes can be complex and time-consuming. Obtaining permits, licenses, and dealing with government agencies may involve significant paperwork and delays. 2. Corruption: Bulgaria has struggled with corruption issues in the past, which can affect business operations. It is important to be aware of this and take necessary precautions to ensure a transparent and ethical business environment. Certain sectors such as healthcare controlled by mafia meaning government. Infiltrating market is a complete joke if you dont have connections. 3. Infrastructure challenges: While Bulgaria has made progress in improving its infrastructure, there are still areas where it lags behind. In some regions, transportation networks and logistics. Infrastructure is broken completely. A lot of new construction sites but no one invests in roads. Shit show 4.Political Instability: country that couldn’t form a parliament for almost two years. 5.Low Taxes: Absolute scam, due to the fact that you will have to constantly pay different service fees, accountants are expensive because of intricate accounting system. 6.Inefficient VAT system List keeps on going further, but all I can say: forget about moving here, sometimes its better to pay higher taxes and live in a system that properly functions.
If the topic for this video wasn't Bulgaria, I'd think you are commenting on Germany. I rather take the lower taxes in BG - if the set-up is so similar.....
@@OffshoreCitizen obviously you are slightly mistaken: Bulgarian authorities are not your business partner! They follow the constitution where it clearly said official language is: BULGARIAN!!! As all immigrants in Canada learn French and English as official language, as all foreigner in Bulgaria are expected to obey the constitution and speak the local language!! Hope you understand this as soon as possible or you may make more videos how life is unfair! By the way every European speaks two or three languages, but for our friends across the pond this is eresy. Too difficult, a???
Silly Europeons... I spent a long time learning Japanese, A TON of effort. Think I'm going to spend 10 000 hours learning Bulgarian even tho I may move in 6-12 months, who knows? NO. Yes, most languages are insignificant in a GLOBAL context. Bulgarian is primarily useful IN BULGARIA! Who would've thunk it? Spanish is however an example of a slightly significant language. If you want Bulgarian to become significant, then create a new Bulgarian Empire and I will agree with you when you've conquered a dozen countries. English is 1000x more useful than Bulgarian globally. My language Norwegian is 99,9999% useless outside Norway. Hence why in Japan I was an English teacher and not a Norwegian teacher! Get out of your bubble if you want to make any money at all.
@@marxamillion5576 th-cam.com/video/xLi83prR5fg/w-d-xo.html This is the most insightful take I've seen regarding this topic. I find it very interesting how few people attempt to define what they mean by AGI. Even defining it turns out to be oddly hard.
I am a Bulgarian citizen and I live in Turkey. I want to go to the USA and seek asylum due to political, religious, racial, and bullying reasons. I heard that Bulgaria will join the Schengen area in 2025 and then join the ESTA visa exemption program like other European countries. If I go and seek asylum with this method, do I have a chance of success depending on my reasons?
My dude, everywhere you go for a living, you need at least to try to learn the local language. Even by saying some basic phrases like "zdrasti" change the experience and open closed doors. I currently live with a Polish lady who refuses to learn Bulgarian and she lives here for 7 years now and she's constantly complaining that she has inconveniences and that everything here sucks but she refuses to learn the language or integrate into the society. Well...I can't help a person who doesn't want to be helped. For context, I used to live in Croatia, Greece, Slovakia and Czechia and always tried to learn some of the local languages. I went specifically to Greece to learn the language because I'm an hellenophile but that's a different story. Good luck in your journey and maybe you will be back in the future, who knows.
Why does your lady refuse to learn the local language? To refuse it after living there for 7 years doesn’t seem right. How can anyone enjoy living in a country without even making an effort to understand and learn the local language at some point…. 🧐🧐
@@sallygoldfinger she's not "my lady", we are just friends who live together but I agree with you. I asked her couple of times why she is refusing to learn the language and she just doesn't want to do it. Basically she puts borders on herself and is unhappy because she doesn't have any other Bulgarian friends besides me. She is just staying in her Polish bubble for years now and I personally find this odd. And I told her that. I can't learn Bulgarian for her, she needs to make some efforts too. She understands some of it because she is Polish and her language is kinda close to Bulgarian but not so much. She doesn't make any efforts of learning how to speak the language tho. Or at least try.
I traveled to Sofia and other parts of Bulgaria. If you speak a little conversational Bulgarian with good pronunciation they will think you are an immigrant without the respect to fully learn the language and judge you for it. If you only speak English they will think you are a somewhat rare tourist and treat you well (meaning normally). Many people are easily irritated by foreigners for no reason.
Well, I rarely I watch a full video of 16 minutes. I expected a lot of cons about Bulgaria from a video with the title "Why I left Bulgaria". But actually you mentioned a lot of pros, and the cons are mostly about your personal preferences, except at the end, the language and the weather !
@@OffshoreCitizen Yes, several times recently, and since I have already business dealings there, I am seriously moving there after my retirement. The language barrier and the quality of the health system are the only factors that make me doubt. Both are probably manageable. I met a lot of young people who speak English well. But I don't like to stay in a country of which I don't know the language.
isn't pollution a problem in Sofia? I remember a documentary about old diesel cars from western Europe ending in Bulgaria. But maybe things have improved.
During the winter the air pollution isn't great during the rest of the year it's fine, I'd usually go away for the winters anyway as I've had enough of the cold for a lifetime Trade offs in every place though
Im also in the same situation living in Bulgaria for since 2021, but going to UEA and pay 9 procent in any situation now will not make me wanna move to it.. when it was still 0 procent it crossed my mind allot.
So for the sake of amenities and other material stuff, you settled in a place that was literally built and is still being built by slave labour. The cost of such 24 hour grocery stores at fancy Dubai apartment blocks is immeasurable human suffering. To me, it's inexcusable that anyone with a hint of morality would chose to live in Dubai with the reasoning "that's where I like it the most", especially when they have the means to live anywhere else in the world. I guess no taxes and amenities are always more important than being a good and compassionate human being, even in such extreme cases. And no, it's not about whether you can change the status quo in Dubai. You can't, obviously. But you have the option not to live there, therefore not being an accomplice in this: th-cam.com/video/qJqqw1S8nHI/w-d-xo.html
3:23: (nazi) Canda is not an option anymore, Bulgaria is very underrated unfortunately, Dubai is more tax friendly I think and more opportunities…..Dubai is my next place where I gonna live….
If the system was functioning so well we also wouldn't have those benefits that businessmen choose Bulgaria for in the first place. I am seeing a lot of negativity in the comments especially about the language. Well we are also not having the easiest time learning english but we are doing it for our own benefit. Talk to any 20-something year old in Sofia and you'll be able to communicate in egl, of course it's rare for people in their 40s or 50s. Go to France and try not speaking a word of french there for years. I think many of the commenters just don't like how bulgarian sounds so they don't want to invest time in it which is fine but then ofc bulgarins won't want to invest tine in alking to you. I am getting the impression foreigners want us to kneel for them, provide them better infrastructure but keep being poor so prices are low.
You have a point there. Lots of young people can speak English. I believe that lots of foreigners would like to learn Bulgarian, especially if they want to stay in Bulgaria long term but it’s a very difficult language to learn (unless you already speak a similar language such as Serbian or Russian). And yes, Bulgaria is a business friendly country which attracts entrepreneurs from all over Europe and further. Every country has positives and negatives it’s up to the individual to decide what matters to them and choose accordingly
I'm in Sofia right now.. I have spent this whole summer exploring places to live and doing research in Greece, Spain and Portugal.. I thought Spain would be it because of the South's good all year round weather and the fact I know a lot of Spanish, but their tax policies are sooo bad, and Spain can be boring.. Bulgaria was the last place on my list.. Thing are a lot easier as a couple I think, then a single guy moving somewhere... but what I can say, language barriers are tough over time. I may go back to the U.S., or live somewhere like Canada because not having language barriers is really great, people take language for granted. Not everyone can learn a language like Bulgarian or want to put the time in.. Just yesterday someone was trying to teach me "Thank You" and it was so hard I just lost it and said it sounded like Chinese and started to make fun of the word.. You will always be an outsider, and not many people actually know English well in Bulgaria.. I would love to live somewhere so affordable and have the freedom it brings, but looking back after 5, 10 plus years here, would I regret it? I think so..
I was in Bulgaria when I started my online company, which is still registered there. For living: Try out the baltics. EVERYONE speaks perfect English which improves social life so much. You might of course have to go more south during winters.
why did you choose Bulgaria instead of Romania? Lol. Much easier language, bigger country, has mountains & sea side. Taxes were/are still pretty good. People are warm and women are beautiful :)
As ex communist country we don't need English in Bulgaria, because there is not foreigns. Foreigns don't want Bulgaria, because their Government have brainwashed them. We are poor, bad not happy and who know what else.
the atmosphere, the nature, the food, the soil, the sea is indescribable, healing for the human soul
Lived here in Bulgaria since 2018 (from the USA). Learning Bulgarian changes the experience. Also Bulgaria has much higher quality of food where as Dubai must import everything. Another great thing about Bulgaria is the low amount of violent crime.
Dubai is 3 months of summer and 9 months of hell. I prefer cooler summer weather and plenty of trees.
Planning to move to Sofia from Bucharest next year for this reason...I like Romania but any place that has a whole month over 35 each summer isn't for me long term.
I would imagine learning Bulgarian would help a lot and if I thought it was my top place aside from that I'd learn it but it's not and the language is sufficiently obscure not to prioritize it.
I strongly disagree re quality of food. Bulgaria has decent mid range food but not high end, the quality of beef for example is the worst I've found anywhere in the world. Locally produced fruits and vegetables are decent during the growing season but that's quite limited for selection.
Want sushi in Bulgaria it's mediocre, Thai options limited, Indian options limited, French or Spanish or Mexican options limited.
Dubai is far from the best in the world for food but you can get practically anything there and there's tons of really excellent food.
Bulgaria is indeed quite safe but Dubai makes it look dangerous by comparison the crime is virtually non existent
If you prefer cooler weather and lots of trees yes Dubai isn't for you though the 3 & 9 months is an exaggeration I find it's quite good for about 7-8 months per year then again I'm happy with it being warm
@@OffshoreCitizen I live in East Bulgaria and away from Sofia in a smaller town. GMO is banned here, as well as various other products that are legal in the west. The yogurt and cheese here are the best in the world, and yeah if you're looking for foreign food, of course it isn't going to be good. You're in Bulgaria! Eat Bulgarian food, they know how to make it the best. Schkemba ciorba, tarator, sach, etc. The fruits and vegetables are also fresh and usually produced locally if you eat seasonal (more meats in the winter and preserved food).
Real high end food is natural and not processed. I guarantee you in Dubai they do not do the same checks as the EU for freshness. I won't disagree about steaks in Bulgaria if that's your thing, but it never has been historically a part of their cuisine. Much more pork, lamb, and chicken.
As for Bulgarian, I learned Russian which helped me with Bulgarian and Bulgarian helps with Russian. Lots of Russians in Dubai.....good luck there by the way
@@Chris-gs7cq I live in places where peak temperature reaches 48-50 Deg C. So, Dubai should not be much of a problem !!!
Bulgaria is fantastic. I am hoping to retire there. Class D visa should be obtainable for me because pension. Comparing Dubai to Sofia is just so wrong. Those 24 hour gyms? Not a draw, a nice walk around Sofia is more to my liking.
Comparing them isn't wrong for him but it might be for you, it all depends on your values and priorities. De gustibus non est disputandum. If you like it there, go for it, hope it works out for you and that you have a wonderful retirement!
How much is the minimum required (monthly) pension to become eligible for a retirement visa in Bulgaria?
As a Bulgarian. Bulgaria is not very nice
@@stefan7378 depends on where you go. There's both cheap beautiful places, and absolute dumpster fires in the country, as with any other nation
@@stefan7378 hi, im recently thinking about to move bulgaria. why you think that? can u explain ? thanks
I just moved to Bansko, Bulgaria. Really enjoying it so far.
Since it's a small ski town plenty of English speakers here.
Made sense for me as already an EU citizen and love hiking and the outdoors too!
Shhhhh... don't tell everyone about Bansko....
Great choice, I'm living in Plovdiv, but planning to check out Bansko come spring.
Plovdiv has some nice in-city hiking, but the mountains are a bit far away for my taste (about 10 km).
I may get a bicycle though, which should do wonders as far as closing the gap between me and the mountains for quick hikes.
Moving to Bansko is like to buy house in Las Vegas downtown or in Disneyworld! Bansko is not premanent place to live is tourist attraction !
@@Scolopente I am Swiss.... So I liked very much to watch several videos about Bansko! BUT the negative point is that in 2025 Bulgaria is going to enter in the EU !!! So stupid to like beeing part of the EU ! Just the hell and getting from bad to worse and worse !
@@entresolysombra5245 I just came back from Bansko and Bania. Great places, but I agree with you on the EU comment. Nothing good will come out of the USSR 2.0
Just a comment regarding the weather.
Sofia is at high elevations ~ 600 meters. It's a mountainous city.
Plovdiv, the second largest city and a cultural capital, and Burgas, the 4th largest city, both feature a humid subtropical climate. Literally, all of Southern Bulgaria's lowlands feature either a Mediterranean (Primorsko/Sandanski) or Humid Subtropical climate. You can find wild olives, pomegranate, palm trees and kiwis growing outside w/o any winter protection. 2200-2800 annual sunshine hours. That's not cold.
So the author has a rather limited understanding of Bulgaria; his views are only based on living in Sofia. This is like saying - America is cold because New York has bad weather.
So true! I can't stand Sofia's or Varna's weather. But Burgas is always perfect.
My parents have a pomegranate tree bearing food next to their house in sofia
My dream is the Rhodopi.
You totally lost me at 'Bulgaria is cold'.
Bulgarian weather is basically the same as Spanish weather, just on the south-eastern part of the continent.
Enjoying a nice, refreshing Mojito while typing this comment btw. It's October 14 and the temperature outside is about 27 degrees Celsius.
He spends part of his time in the Emirates. So yes, to him Bulgaria is cold :D
Bulgaria used have very cold winters back in the day. -25C was not rare.
Now winters are much more mild. One of the benefits of global warming.
The weather is not like in Spain for sure...
I really disliked Sofia. I was there only 5 days. People were very aggressive and rude. Customer service does not exist. I was approached by prostitutes several times.( I’m 70!) I would never return. They are still recovering from Soviet mentality.
Many parts in Bulgaria have the coldest winter in all of Europe, other than NE Europe, colder than London, Dublin, Oslo, Stockholm....The reason - high altitude, mountains and no see around... Today 22 October at midnight - 4 deg.C, colder than London, Dublin, even ...Moscow.
Dubai is a big gay shopping mall of empty consumerist culture. Basically hell....
As Bulgarian who went to Dubai ones for vacation i can only say this. Dubai is a soulless place of useless big buildings, can't compared to even 1 Bulgaria village.
Bulgaria is not any more different.
I met a load of Peace Corps Americans way back in Bulgaria and it was very clear that they were a square peg in a round hole,all of them....... another thing I would say is like most capital cities Sofia is a little different to the rest of BG. Each to their own, for me Dubai is the last place I would ever want to visit never mind live, but thats the beauty of our realm.
if you want to live like a stinky peasant then sure
Anyone who thinks that Dubai is crime free knows nothing about the world.... there is plenty of darkness going on in that place...
So I am a Bulgarian and judging by the title was curious to understand if this was going to be one of those trash-talking videos about our country.
Turned out it's quite a positive video and mentioning some of the benefits that we have living here is great!
Surely, not ideal, there are no ideal or perfect places despite you having mentioned such. I've traveled around and have lived abroad in Slovakia and do not consider relocating anytime soon. Not for the moment, at least. Home is a dear place.
Absolutely your home tends to be a part of you
"Go where you ... like it the most" made me laugh 😀
He definitely didn't say "Go where you're treated best" 😀
Iykyk
How about:
Go Where You Hate it Least😮
@@sonny8085 Actually, I prefer "Go where you like it the most" over r "Go where you're treated best". Sorry Andrew.
I'm originally from Varna, but lived in Toronto my whole life (30 years). My wife and I moved to Varna in 2021 to get out of shithole Toronto and I'm literally scratching my head when you say Bulgaria is far surpassed by the conveniences in other places. I have the opposite experience, with the exception of the lack of Amazon (boohoo, i get emag, ozone and a million other online stores) and the couriers will literally show up at my door with card processors if needed and wait to see if I'm happy with my purchase. From a social and lifestyle perspective, its far more comfortable and safe going out here as, you probably know, Toronto and its I'm-like-new-york-right?-little-man-syndrome makes going out a bullshit overpriced pseudo-trendy experience. I can literally sit at a table on the beach here without even greeting a restaurant host. Seeing a doctor or specialist is waaaaay faster here than in Canada, I recently wanted to see a dermo and had an appointment within an hour, and for that same day. Paying my bills is super easy here, with the exception of the whole weird thing of water meter people coming to my door. In BG you have access to amazing beaches, winter fun in the mountains, amazing mineral spas and great well-rounded seasons (Varna > Sofia, I know), and overall way better "nature stuff" than in a lot of other countries. On top of that, the country isn't that large so visiting those places is easy af. I literally can't think of a single thing I miss, other than my close friends, about living in Canada. On top of all that, judging by how Canadians handled covid, and how people here in BG behaved, I know who I want to be around the next time the world loses its mind (possibly this winter). I won't even go into the fact that I was able to buy a large fully paid off apartment and live mortgage free. To your point, I did have to hunt quite a bit to find the quality and size/view that I wanted, but hey, I hunted even longer in Toronto to avoid most of the new shit-layout, low quality WAY overpriced builds in TO. I won't get into any of the other FAR lower costs such as >10X cheaper car insurance. It does help that I'm completely fluent in Bulgarian and have family here, but we're talking general conveniences. Oh and you're right taxis in Sofia are basically double what they cost in Varna.
Glad you like it.
Will disagree about the quality of Bulgarian beaches they are pretty mediocre though better than nothing I suppose.
Generally wouldn't be limiting contrasts to Toronto, there's a whole world out there. Canadian healthcare is pretty garbage, though BG healthcare lacks many quality specialists and alternative healthcare is quite limited.
Conveniences are definitely not fantastic in BG compared with many places, in general there's simply far fewer options available. If what you're looking for fits within the range of what's offered it's fine but the market is too small to accommodate a much larger range. This goes for everything from food to electronics to jewelry and clothing to housing.
All of these places is a matter of values, there are many people for whom Bulgaria is a great fit and if you're one that's fantastic, definitely enjoy it. For me I prefer some other parts of the world but not everyone is in the same situation as I am or have the same values and that's part of what makes life interesting.
Yes, that's why God put u in Bulgaria. If God wanted us to be in one place and speak one language we still would have been in Babylon.
Varna climate has a unique blend of Mediterranean influences, It offers residents and visitors a year-round good weather even in winter.The weather in Varna is a standout feature that draws people to this region. Summers in Varna are warm and sunny, Winters in Varna are mild, and barely snowy maybe once in a blue moon. One of the intriguing aspects of Varna's climate is its suitability for subtropical crops. The combination of mild winters and warm summers creates an environment where a variety of subtropical and Mediterranean fruits and vegetables can flourish. Olive trees, figs,pomegrante and even some exotic plant species.The Black Sea coast's moderating effect on temperatures helps protect these crops from extreme cold in the winter, making it possible to cultivate them in areas that might otherwise be unsuitable for subtropical agriculture. The Black Sea coast make it an attractive destination and a promising region for those with a passion for agriculture. It's a place where the best of both worlds converge, making Varna a captivating destination for all seasons.
Your statement @OffshoreCitizen captures a negative perspective on weather and life in general. It suggests that instead of complaining about unfavorable weather conditions, people can find ways to make the most of the situation and adapt their activities accordingly. This adaptable and optimistic attitude can be valuable in various aspects of life, helping individuals overcome challenges. About the beaches, while the quality and uniqueness of a beach experience can vary from person to person and depend on individual preferences, Varna's beaches generally receive positive reviews for their beauty and amenities.The reasons why people like the beaches in Bulgaria are because they have preserved natural beauty unlike other countries.
What settlements would you recommend on the Black coast to buy a second home at?
well said! London its also a shit hole nowdays.... i am saying that from a perspective of a Bulgaria with an online bussines.
It is great that you have found the place to develop your endeavours. But, honestly, switching from Bulgaria to Dubai suggest a very high level of randomness in your choice. I cannot even think of business opportunities overlap between the 2 countries.
If something doesn't make sense it usually means you're missing information😉
@@OffshoreCitizen I just don't get how you can handle the Dubai weather. But if you're traveling a lot, then I get it. I mean, it hits 47 'C sometimes in summer. Imagine the AC costs if electricity costs increase.
The low taxes on company profit. That's in common.
You can skip straight to the 8 minute for the reasons. You will not miss anything and I haven't heard any obvious reasons why to left Bulgaria
Dubai is a downgrade in terms of quality of life. Horribly planned city, dust and air pollution, extreme heat, no citizenship or permanent residency, dubious legal system and protections. You are always a second class citizen to a local.
I find nothing in the ME attractive. I rather pay more taxes than settle anywhere near.
I don't have the money to move and I have never been but honestly I don't even fancy going on holiday there. I could be wrong though.
Some fair points.
The city is actually not too bad in terms of planning. I was back this year for the first time in 4 years and the roads were noticeably busier, so it is starting to show a little in terms of infrastructure challenges. On the plus side, the roads are MUCH better quality than almost anywhere else on earth.
Weather is great 8 months a year and truthfully most people with the $$ leave for the other 4 months. Fortunately it is summer in the northern hemisphere during those 4 months, so there is no end of choices on where to go.
The legal system concerns are a little overblown. There were some high profile cases in the past that highlighted a rather draconian approach. If you're living your life with integrity and honesty, there is little to be worried about. The upside is that I can stroll down any street at 3:00AM, wearing a $50,000 watch, and nothing bad is going to happen. Try that in the U.S. or Europe.
As for being second class, true. I notice it when I'm there. It is one of the reasons I would probably not choose to live there year-round. Nowadays though, there are so many people from around the world, that it is becoming less and less of a thing. You seldom even interact with locals as they are such a small minority of the population.
Really. Dubai seems to be a weird place to me - foreign workers doing all the work, pockets of religious extremism, no drinking. Also, I think if you were a woman, you might re-think UAE..
I've never noticed being treated like or feeling like a second class citizen. Actually quite the opposite as I've described in other videos in Dubai I feel like a customer they want my business whereas in places like Europe and North America you're a resource to be exploited
I was in Dubai for business ....but that is definitely a place I wouldn't like to live, the same with London /UK/.. . Bulgaria in my opinion is absolutely the opposite.❤
Interestingly enough, almost everything you described about disliking in Bulgaria is a pro for me and vice versa for UAE.
I know pretty much foreigners in Bulgaria and most of the half are very happy there. The half of the other half are happy okay and the rest are moving away after spending some time. Just personal observations. If a foreign person or family fit with locals they feel very well. The language is not a real barrier. A lot of people talk English, especially the youngest and up to 40. You can find many foreigners in small towns or even villages, moving away from the world crowd. So Bulgaria is not for everyone. But the ones that adapt to it are truly happy. 😃
I often hear people say....'you want to live there, but what about....insert someone else's projection here......' I agree with you that there is no perfect place and I'm pursuing the path of less than perfect places that all add up to a good life.
Definitely a great way to go
loved the way how you put it from all angels. I went through the same thought process and moved from UAE to turkey. but my circumstances are different. Good luck in Dubai.
Turkiye! not "turkey" or Turkey.
@lorenk.775 and... "angles", not angels.
How are you liking Turkey? What area are you in?
Thanks for your reply. I am in Gaziosmanpasa area. I moved to turkey bus of better quality and less commercial med care. In Dubai you can't afford to get sick, I am 61. Worked 16 years in Dubai, now retired.
@lorenk.775 Deutschland, not Germany, not Almanya. أردن (Urdun), not Jordan. Россия ( Raseeya), not Russia, Sverige, not Sweden, der Schweiz, not Switzerland, Suomi, not Finland..... if we start that stupid game, where are we gonna end up?! So, yeah, Turkey. But you guys can call it whatever you like calling it.
I lived in Ukraine and Poland on around $1600 per month total. Then considered Moldova or Romania, and before that, an income visa in Spain. Now I'm in California spending 7 times as much😮
But Dubai doesn't offer permanent resdency or citizenship, what's your plan for your retirement days let's say after age 60/70?
Retirees have an easy time getting permanent residency anywhere. You just need the money to retire without social security.
No reason one could not stay in Dubai indefinitely. The golden visa is renewable every 10 years if you have the $$ requirements nailed down (RE investment). If you enjoy the lifestyle there, easy choice. But even if your tastes change and you want something a little more laid-back, having Dubai as your tax home might be well worth considering at any age. Even if you're retired, that investment portfolio/pension is going to be taxable in most places.
Freshly those are problems best not considered today. I never intend to retire and the world will change so much by then it's a fool's errand to try to predict what it will look like by then or if it will even be around.
30 years ago no one would have considered Dubai at all today it's one of the greatest cities in earth. What is coming that you can't see?
The best path is to invest in optionality and be flexible
@@OffshoreCitizen Thanks for the reply, but at least we need one country where we can settle permanently, what will be your preference in that case, considering forex & crypto as your main source of income?
@@gauravpatil1867 He already answered your question according to his preference on life. You repeating your preference and question is irritating and achieves nothing. Learn to listen!
I'm very impatient and don't have sixteen minutes to spare to listen to him ramble. Why did he choose to leave Bulgaria?
THE PEOPLE
Consider getting some medication for your ADHD.
@tjw-gyulevaтези хора са стопаните на тази земя, и това няма да се промени. Ние казваме както се извикало, така се и обадило..
I think it is a very good summary of what Bulgaria is and isn't. It is a nice and very livable country but it may not be ideal for certain lifestyles
Another interesting discussion Michael thank you for sharing your experiences and insights.
It probably comes down to deciding what you can live with....
I remember watching a sandstorm sweep in engulfing Dubai one afternoon thinking how beautiful it looked till I tried to go out shopping and instantly regretted it.
Friends of my partner were part of a large English expat group when one couple were arrested for having a still. The couple with the still were flogged and did years in prison and then started going after their "friends". Everyone on that circle abandoned their lives there and jumped on planes to escape leaving cars, properties, yachts, bank accounts...
In April we were loving staying in Sofia and had a short trip to Plovdiv and to not relive that drama basically experienced the underworld of Bulgaria...but were helped by the kind and loyal locals and expat community.
Upon reflection it's how well informed and supported by expat groups and supportive locals makes the difference where ever one chooses to make a new life...
What do you mean arrested for having a ‘still’ ? do you mean a home brew still? Don’t understand
What does having a still mean?
Your comments are not unlike other muslim-majority countries that have flogging. Someone sent me a video the other day that was posted on TH-cam of a flogging session in Indonesia I think it was. It was absolutely horrifying to watch these things. I have heard that people have abandoned all kinds of property for other reasons. They also have debtors prison in Dubai, and if you get into any dispute with locals, I heard they will just throw the book at you irrespective of the equities. So if you go to a place like that you have to watch your p's and q's, and be over cautious about everything. I don't know if I'd want to live a life like that especially when it's normal to sometimes be upset shout illegal I understand in Dubai. Europe seems to me to be a much more normal place to be, it's also democratic so I try to frown on dictatorships.
@@TroofNewsYes, a home brewing pot-still.
@@Bri-wi8kq Those people should respect local laws, it’s not a complicated concept. But how was the prison experience in Dubai?
Thanks for sharing your story about iving in Bulgaria. That proximity to other European countries is appealing. Nice to hear you mention the pros and cons of living in Sofia. I liked your perspective about finding the ideal place to live based on one's individual preferences. Dubai has such an appeal to it - just not a fan of those high gulf temperatures. What colder weather city would you move to as a base other then selecting a balkan region country?
Well the thing is for the most part even in the summer I don't notice the heat in Dubai that much because I spend the time inside where it's all air conditioned or I like to go swimming so it's not nearly as bad as one might believe if that's how you spend the time. If you need to be outside then yes it's dreadful.
As for other bases for my personal preference I like south east Asia though there you get the humidity. Portugal is popular with a lot of people though a bit trickier to optimize there's a reason it's popular.
10:05 "Go where you're treated...where you like it the most!" Haha just kidding Mike. Great video
Michael is by far the better consultant/guru, but the other guy's marketing is just next level. Nothing wrong with stealing that 🙂
Greetings from Bogotá- great video, we enjoy your content. Cheers
Awesome, thank you!
Soy de Colombia y viviendo temporalmente en Bulgaria ...hay cosas que me gustan otras cosas que no
I setup a company and Bulgaria and I kind of regret it. After several trips there, I have decided I don’t want to live there, and getting residency as an American is a pain. Without residency, my company cannot easily use revolut or Google Ads. Without residency, the border guards ask me a bunch of questions every time I go through passport control. Bulgaria doesn’t have a totalization agreement with the US, unlike Romania or Czech Republic. My Bulgarian bank has a tedious website and requires me to carry an Android phone to authorize CC payments. They cannot send SMSs to foreign phone numbers and they are missing an app on iOS. I struggled to hire good IT people there which maybe was just bad luck. I found it easier to hire good people in other countries. There are definitely good things about Bulgaria but for me, it’s not my forever place.
Hmm which bank were you using? Generally I'd avoid sms as a 2FA method vs email or an app but the banks I've used have iOS and Android apps
The talent pool isn't very deep but depends what you're looking for, costs tend to be pretty good
@@OffshoreCitizen Raiffeisen which became KBC which became UBB.
You can confirm wires using their Token app on iOS, but you cannot confirm credit card transactions. For CC, they send an SMS. But the SMS only works for Bulgarian numbers. Prepaid Bulgarian SIM cards don’t work outside of Bulgaria, and I refuse to get a postpaid SIM for the sole purpose of confirming CC transactions.
On Android, the bank has an app called DigiPay which can confirm CC transactions. On iOS this app does not exist (not from the same bank). I asked why there’s no app for this on iOS. They said it’s because they support Apple Pay instead. But most online retailers don’t accept Apple Pay. So I’m forced to carry around an old Android phone.
I agree, costs in Bulgaria are pretty good!
If you are able to change banks and want to do so, DSK Banka supports foreign phone numbers, at least they support Norwegian ones.
However, I don't know if they have proper 2FA - I'm just using SMS. But it's OK for me, because I mostly use Revolut and such.
Good summary. Good beef is indeed hard to find. Cost of living was very low before Covid, now I'd say just "low". Sofia is a bit chilly compared to other Bulgarian cities but not a huge difference.
Similarly to Bucharest traffic is exploding in recent years but public transport is of decent quality, especially metro.
Got some extra thoughts after experiencing winter in Bulgaria and thinking about language:
- I never intended to learn Bulgarian, and it feels very high investment while only giving high returns if you intend to stay here the rest of your life.
- In Malaysia, I felt less like a foreigner ironically, because English really felt like the local language!
I currently can feel at home in Norway, Japan (fluent), Malaysia.
But whereas I do sometimes develop a feeling of being "truly at home" in Bulgaria (esp. during summer!), I get completely thrown off balance when someone speaks to me in Bulgarian, which happens now and again.
I'm considering just studying Bulgarian more, but a part of me acstually wants to invest time into Spanish if I'm going to invest heavily into any foreign language.
It's all really kinda tricky!
On the other hand, I basically do live online and I'm constantly connected, so I don't mind being a weirdo who doesn't speak the language much. I'm also considering just listening to TV all the time and also studying the language.
I'm pretty sure in 20 years from now English will be everywhere in Bulgaria, comparable to today's Norway or maybe even The Netherlands. Young people in Bulgaria often speak amazing English without a noticeable accent, probably due to watching movies with subtitles, influence from online English content, etc.
I also think Dubai would feel a bit more like home, but the hot season just seems way too hot unless I'm living real close to the metro.
Winter here in Plovdiv is not as bad as feared - actually experienced 21 'C on Xmas eve, and we've had plenty of days of around 10-15 'C recently.
I feel more at home in Japan because I have been heavily exposed to the culture.
In Bulgaria I sometimes feel like I'm interacting artificially with a different culture, because I am not sufficiently experienced-immersed and well-versed in the language.
It's all kinda confusing, but it looks like my taxes will be low-ish here and I can't wait to see what I end up paying!
But I see myself moving on to a place where English is the primary language in the future, as long as the taxes are within reason. Or of course, I may invest in Spanish heavily and that will open up all of Latin America, which could be truly exciting.
Bulgaria's upcoming accession to Schengen is a nice thing, but how may EU apply pressure to Eastern Europe with regards to taxation going forward?
Or will perhaps those countries independently choose to imitate Western Europe wrt. progressive taxation?
If that happens, I will certainly be on my way to another country again, and any Herculean efforts into learning Bulgarian will suddenly seem like a waste, since have to learn yet another language.
Spanish is the ultimate language to learn right now for a digital nomad, no doubt in my opinion!
But I'll stay here in Bulgaria for now and appreciate the country because I am still just starting out on my journey to save on taxes. If it all pans out, I'll relish that while perhaps visiting a few countries around the world to see if e.g. English (or Spanish) changes the way I see myself as a member of the society. Maybe I should start learning Spanish now, focusing on Latin American varieties!
Thank you for these informative presentations and reviews based on your experience and wisdom, which I find very helpful
Glad it was helpful!
A very interesting video Michael as the Dubai / Balkan combo is what a lot of us europeans gravitate towards if we dont have the millions to play the monaco game. Looks very much like Dubai is the go to 'hub' where we can establish a home for 3 to 8 months of the year and then divide up the other time by carefully avoiding triggering residency in other european countries and not getting burned to a crisp in summer. I visited Bulgaria 20 years ago when it was still emerging. one of the first memories I had was one seeing a middle age woman crouch and take a dump in a central Sofia park bush. The hotel we stayed in at the time had a strip club on the top floor, on the second day the elevators went out of service and we have a 9 floor walk up to our rooms. we also took a road trip through the 'valley of the roses' and the road was so bad we broke one of the wheels of our van. I am sure it has improved vastly in the last 20 years but I have fond memories from back then.
Hahahaha fortunately it's improved a lot
Ya, people don't take shits in the street here, nor did they 20/30 years ago. I have a story about a crackhead woman that was squirting breast milk at people at a mall in Toronto, and plenty of other stories about sketchy hotels and sketchy people. Plain and simply, you stayed at a dump and ran into a crazy person, not very relevant to the conversation at large.
What is so "very interesting" about this video? He mostly kept saying things like (paraphrasing) "choose what you like the most", "some people don't speak English", and inconsequential remarks about his marital situation.
The fact that his bare statements Bulgaria remind you of your pleasant experience there doesn't render this video interesting, let alone thoughtful.
those budget hotels present with many surprises
I also think there is no ideal one place for everything. That's an industrial age idea. There is nothing stopping you from getting your fries from McDonald's, your burger from Burger King, and the shake from Wendy's. We live in a kind of à la carte world
Definitely can get lots of benefits designing your life that way... Though I'd never choose burger king for my burger 😜
You almost said the Nomad Capitalist way: go where you are treated best 😂
Been in UAE for 22 years, looking move to Bulgaria. Tired from hectic, only money- oriented, no-permanent friends country.
Feel free to reach out in case you need any assistance with that
One of the most ridiculous videos I ever saw. The level of egoism, the entitlement is unbelievable. How can someone can live such a hedonistic life is beyond my understanding. A life of taking, never contributing on any level, no legacy except greed and comfort.... Disgusting!
As a south African I want to immigrate to the middle east
Do you think working towards a uk/irish (plus non dom) passport is a good decision before moving to the middle east?
Definitely it's a great long term asset especially Irish with EU access
with a UK/Irish passport you will be positively differentiated in the middle east compared to a lower grade passport holder, so 100% go for it (e.g. better salary for same job, just because you have Anglo-Saxon passport)
Out of curiousity, i was reading about polish taxes on pwc and i saw a part about a lump sum tax on foreign income for around 60k euros. Although it seems to exclude controlled foreign corporations for some reason. Also apparently the reporting requirements are really low. Whats your opinions on this?
If you're making enough money, can qualify the income and like Poland it can be a good way to go. Polish tax and tax authorities tend to be very bureaucratic but that program is definitely competitive with the Italian and Greek programs, I'll make a video about it in the future
Mandatory to have a job, yes? Savings you need? Is that a good country if i am a prop firm trader? Thanks a lot for Infos
@@mftrader1857you make 10k / month?
I was thinking about Ecuador but now I don't know with the assignations and rising cartel crime. Uruguay is an option but it is far away.
100 times I take live in Bulgaria than dubai.nonsense video.
Please make a video about their healthcare system-really helps those considering retiring there.
Why i left Bulgaria. Five mins in and I've been told his name multiple times. He told me about his wife and loads of lame info about his life that nobody wants to know. Hes told me about other counties and why i might want to live in those places, but nothing about leaving Bulgaria
Lay off the Ritalin and stimulants, you cant get a sentence out your mouth with out slurring. You start the next sentence before youve got the last one out your mouth. Your all over the place. I think your wife was looking for different countries to get away from you 😂 Sorry but 5 mins listerning to you was 4mins 55 seconds too many for me. I think you gave me ADHD.
Too far from reality! Bulgaria is a multidimensional choice, which the flat people (even though well-educated) cannot understand... But I made it for myself!
Hi Michael, I do remember your Bulgaria trade representative visa experience video you shared a few years back, where you mentioned that you can help also with finding the required active company which is mandatory for a trade representative visa. Is that offer still available? Cheers 🍻
Yes please send us a message through www.offshorecitizen.net
Great video...ps what is the best city in Bulgaria to live and work in or to retire for ex UK citizens
I am Bulgarian living in the UK. Being a foreigner in Bulgaria, you better stay in one of the bigger cities, like Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas, or Sofia. Not because you must live in a city, but for practical reasons, like having social life, having other expats around available, having somebody to translate and interpret for you in formal cases, having libraries, theatres, restaurants, etc. Small villages do have charm and appeal, but you will be starved socially, and probably will be helpless if you need translation services.
Do not underestimate that as a foreigner, you will have low availability of jobs suitable for your soft skills.
How did you track cheap Qatar Airways business class deals from Sofia?
I'm living in Sofia as we speak. Loads of pros and cons. But compared with rest of Europe, Bulgaria is still cheap which makes the country quite attractive. The weather could be better, I agree.
Definitely one of the best places in terms of value for money. Hard to beat that
We're moving to Veliko Tarnavo region in a couple of months - can't wait. Good luck with it all
I am looking at moving to Sofia next year for the cooler summers...here in Bucharest it is 35 whenever Sofia hits 30. Plus winter is just as cold.
@@Chris-gs7cq Well, Sofia is surrounded by the huge Vitosha mountain and hence being cooler and you can escape there in 15min as it is a really cool place. Sofia also has huge parks that even in the summer you can always seek the shade within a short walk. South Park is definitely one of the best and not so far away from the city centre. Sofia is also not far from the Greek Sea and less than 4 hours to the Black Sea and around 7 hours to Istanbul. So there is a huge variety. Bucharest though has nicer architecture and feels much more urban. Sofia is more chilled and relaxed. In general, if you plan to move to Sofia always look at the southern neighbourhoods as they are more developed. Finally, Sofia has a really good metro system and ridiculously cheap. Trip from the airport to any place in Sofia is 0,80€.
@@Chris-gs7cq whereas, not whenever
When it comes to convenience I think you have higher expectations than most people. That is not a bad thing of course as its personal preference. But this was an interesting perspective on a foreigner. One of the biggest issues for immigrants here I think is indeed the language. Most people would try to be helpful but they dont know the language.
I would like to know about the real estate and how the country is for real estate investing. I am getting a citizenship by descent. I don’t know how long that’s going to take but I’ve been meeting other people that live in Bulgaria and possibly maybe even doing business with them before I even get there. Thank you for the insightful information truly appreciated.
But UAE does not offer citizenship to any foreigners, unless they have changed that recently.
Please make a video about the "great migration" in general!
Working on it
So what are your other places Michael?
I am thinking of a trifecta approach for myself. I want to get out of the Canadian tax net, more and more every day when I see how stupidly the money is used. I will have business interests here, so not being on the other side of the world year-round would certainly be helpful. Not just the long flights but the time difference might get old fast.
My working plan is Dubai from mid-October to March 1. Puerto Vallarta for March, April, and May. 10 days of travel at the start of June (Japan/North America), then Vancouver for their summer. That keeps a little bit of time in the home country. Then September 1st to mid-October would be various destinations in Europe. So much to see there. The weather is still good in Europe, but not oppressively hot. The crowds are thinning. Great time to explore Europe before heading back to Dubai to start the cycle again.
With Dubai's newer 90 day approach to tax residency, that should sort out a large part of the tax problem. The inclusion of Mexico is to ensure easy access to Canada for business reasons without getting the CRA re-involved in my life (staying well under the 6 months).
The weather outcome is nearly ideal year-round with plenty of sunshine and not too crazy hot temps. I have never seen the point of living somewhere that one needs to be hermetically sealed in an air conditioned room. To me that is only a slight upgrade from a similar room in a Canadian winter where we have the heat on. I love to have the windows open when I'm working at the computer, or better yet, be outside. Can't imagine that working out well in Dubai in July.
Anyway, let's hope the world stays sane long enough to finish pulling the plan together!
Keep in mind being tax resident in Dubai doesn't make you non resident anywhere else especially Canada given it's essentially impossible to have the Canada UAE tax treaty apply. This being said if you're careful to severe your ties to Canada it could be fine.
I tend to like Europe in the summers lots of great places there. Travel to Canada and US to see friends and family, then trips throughout the year to other areas especially time in Asia.
@@OffshoreCitizen Yes, good point. I will make sure to tick the boxes so as to leave no doubt that Dubai residency is solid. The plan is to set up a Dubai off-shore corp, then contract it to the Canadian corp. Within the confines of transfer pricing regulations of course. Any profits that remain in the Canadian corp (that cannot be shifted to the Dubai corp) will just have to go as salary and bonuses. Should bring the profit of the Canadian corp down to zero. The 25% withholding taxes on personal income will be my only contribution to the Canadian regime. At least a portion of the whole thing will be tax-free, and of course tax-free future investment gains on the money once liberated from the CRA's grasp. Can't see any way to fully shield the income generated in Canada as I would be deemed to have a PE in Canada. Not a zero percent tax rate, but when all is said and done, hopefully ~10%. Perhaps I will reach out next year and see if you have any thoughts once I've pulled together a more definite plan.
That was a very interesting post. I'm also Canadian, and I left about 13 years ago mainly because of the high tax, the terrible weather, and the insane difficulty in accessing healthcare. I moved 13 years ago to Israel from Canada and have no tax to pay for the first 10 years, of course that's over now and it's time to go somewhere else with my EU passport. Healthcare though is really excellent here, you're able to get the best of health care able to see professors in a day or two under the private system and access major operations within a week or two. Some people in Canada are waiting three four and five years for back surgery, and now they have to leave the country and pay a couple of hundred thousand USD to get an operation in the states are perhaps maybe a little cheaper to go to Europe. I know in the hospital I was at in Israel there was an awful lot of foreign residents mostly from Ukraine and Russia who came for back surgery. They would keep them in the hospital for 13 days just to make sure everything was okay and then they would whisk them off back to their home country and communicate on WhatsApp if there were any issues. You know when you're sitting in a country like Canada freezing your balls off, and paying 54% tax, you have to wonder is there a better way? You may want to analyze the rules on transfer pricing. They have become very onerous of late, and you will have severe difficulty in convincing cra that there is a bonafide operation enabling you to do transfer pricing. Even major corporations like Google that put their IP in Ireland to pay 4% tax and income and charge all the subsidiaries licensing now have to pay local taxes on their operations in each individual country. Of course that was too well enable the oecd to collect more taxes. But when you get an audit, they can really be brutal. Keep that in mind.
Interesting post. Personally I'd take Bulgaria over UAE anyday. I like seasons and nature. To be able to buy groceries or run on a treadmill at 3am doesn't appeal!! Dubai is too bling bling for me I prefer my brutalist architecture!
But in Sofia in every neighborhood there 24h shops. There used to be 24h fantastiko and magazin 345. Plus tons of corner shops. Open all year long , including Sunday. Therefore I was puzzled when he said there aren't shops open at night.
Not sure about gyms.
Boring
get to the point
have you also lived in Taiwan? I think I saw it on one of your videos. Would you say good place to relocation?
Never lived in Taiwan no, I've lived for a short time in Thailand
What are your thoughts on Bucharest vs Sofia?
Great 👍
I liked Bulgaria 🇧🇬 the day I knew the country exist.
What do you like about Bulgaria?
Beautiful nature
Well Michael, if it was so good for you as you described, it would remain one of your "satellite places" around your life in the UAE. People who have moved location, town, country many times, myself included, find it mentally and emotionally easy to do it again. This kind of make them not root down too deeply. Most people have strong sense of belonging and connection with where they're born and grew up so they find their place of happiness there, or the thought of not being there just too heavy to bear.
On 30 December 2023, the Council unanimously agreed on the accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the Schengen area. Thus, as of 31 March 2024, both Member States will start applying Schengen rules.
A small correction, Bulgaria being part of EU means English is supposed to be the 2nd official language there, as reflected in the banks you went later on, therefore you don't necessarily need to learn the local language there or any other part of EU, though in some countries they don't prefer the English there and prefer foreigners learn the local language, such as in most of Italy and some parts of France.
You do need to if you want to be able to communicate
This is a very flawed logic to think that English needs to be a 2nd "official" language in a EU country.
@@marcusdamarcus837English is the de facto 2nd language needed, not de jure. You need to speak the language of your rulers, it’s common sense.
There's no EU member which officially speaks english language as native. So the first second language of bulgarians should be american, not english. And the second second - russian of course. Unless if you are from this minority (1/6 of entire population) speaking turkish. Which is different from the turkish in Turkey.. At least we have google translate and middle fingers.
@@OffshoreCitizen learning another language is not as easy as some people think, perhaps in a very basic level with confident facial expressions, which will work primarily for the purpose of trying to impress a girlfriend with worldliness and intelligence, however it works poorly for communication
I had choosen Bucharest instead of Sofia and I am very happy with the choice, almost everybody speaks English here.
Glad you're enjoying it, Romania is underrated in the world I'd say
I guess if you like mititae and mamaliga
I'm in Plovdiv, Bulgaria now, as usual.
Winter is about to hit, thinking about exploring somewhere.
But it's still 1000x nicer than Norwegian winter.
The great thing about Plovdiv is very little wind, and a couple of decades warmer than Sofia.
Rain is really rare.
Weather-wise it's almost a 10/10 all year.
I'd say a 6/10 in winter, but still one of the mildest places to experience 0'C or lower in the world.
I'm glad I'm not in Varna this autumn/winter, what with their Norwegian wind speed.
Welcome back, Michael!
Nice overview, btw. So many places, far too little time.
Wow is that your house in Sofia? Did you build it yourself?
I did not build it no
Why is the speech so rapid that it is difficult and unpleasant to follow?
What are the ideal places you’re moving towards, Michael?
I think Italy is outstanding for part of the year though don't get into their tax net
I really like Dubai it offers a great life
I'd like to get a beach house somewhere but haven't decided where yet.
I've always had this view that I'd like a place in a great city, an estate somewhere more peaceful and a beach house.
I find more and more it's appealing to be able to bring friends and family to a great place and spend time with them so that's a major consideration
@@OffshoreCitizen I couldn't agree more. Italy makes for a great hub in Europe. It's well-located making it easy to road trip to many destinations. Mountains and sea just a few hours between each other if even that.
I too am looking for that beach place, so let us know when you find it!
@@OffshoreCitizen I wish you'd talk about "surviving the desert" in Dubai. I could not even see myself visiting Dubai except for winter.
I can handle 34-ish 'C with no issues, but 40 'C is not gonna get me to climb even a hill (I considered doing so in Plovdiv, but decided not to)
It's amazing how people describe the rich Gulf countries as "a great place to live". These countries are governed by theocracies, and their laws are medieval. Especially for women.
I'd encourage you to actually spend time rather than judging by media narratives. What you're describing is simply not the factual on the ground reality
We want to travel the world and we are not sure where to start as we do have 2 small dogs and own our own online business. Maybe Bulgaria would be a good place to start? How is the healthcare system there along with cost.
All depends on your personal circumstances, long-term goals, and all that you're trying to achieve. Probably best to reach out
I wanted to hear it but you seem to beat around the bush and stretch it far too long, I don't have 17 minutes for your video, you could have summed that up and made it a lot shorter!
@OffshoreCitizen Appreciate your points shared! What's your take on the Isle of Man especially when compared to Cyprus or, to some extent, Dubai?
I think for most people it's less liveable due to weather. Appealing for people from UK who want to be close to London but doesn't offer a lot domestically
If you're gong to consider Isle of Man should also consider Jersey
All I got was that you dont like it because you failed to integrate :) Good luck in Dubai :) let me know how it goes when they take your passport and make your work there :)
Why Dubai and not Cyprus, as an alternative option that is in EU as well?
Dubai offers 100x more in terms of conveniences, lifestyle and networking
This is a matter of taste though I value all the stuff that a modern first world city brings, Cyprus is too rural for me to live there but for others it's great.
I also don't necessarily view being in the EU as a plus unless it makes it easier to relocate (only for EU citizens) or you can get some kind of permanent status out of it and Cyprus doesn't like to give away their citizenship by naturalization.
So it's too each their own. I often suggest Cyprus as an option to clients and some move there though it's much less popular than Portugal etc
@@OffshoreCitizen Yes, indeed, I have a EU passport. Thanks a lot for the detailed explanation
Man, stay in your Dubai!! Dubai: A big desert, no environment, huge buildings.. is that the dream life? Life is not only a business, beef and sushi! My opinion...So enjoy your life in Dubai! Obviously you don't know anything about my country!
Hey Michael, I like your perspective on this. I agree that convenience and ease of life are major concerns when choosing a location. Language can be a huge barrier and drastically affect your experience. Coming from an English background, I think I would only want places that have a decent amount of English speakers. Of course, not for everyone, but thats just me. Having said that, what are your thoughts on Saudi? They seem to be really easing on the rules and becoming more like Dubai. Still a ways away, but moving in the right direction. They certainly have the financial horsepower to achieve incredible things similar to Dubai.
Saudi is apparently an incredible place to make money right now so clients tell me.
Some really cool tourist spots too.
I can't figure out why anyone would live there over Dubai yet though. Same with Qatar and Bahrain both impressive places but lagging behind UAE by 5-10 years
in Janet supermarket in Nasebar grape costs 9 usd per kilo now !!!
This particular vlog He is rather amusing to me because I'm a senior and getting married to a European who exactly wants more freedom and flexibility in moving and setting up a local business. I actually wanted to consult with you in this regard. I'm managing some transitional details first. Thanks for all your videos. An American...
First! And welcome back; been wondering where you were - I hope all is well.
Having now watched the first 6 minutes, I have a question. As I consider moving overseas, it seems that we have "too much stuff" (a not uncommon American phenomenon) - even with realizing that a significant portion of it will not come...how do you deal with that? (For example, I have more than a few musical instruments.) Do you just keep your computer and some clothes and move to various places? Keep in mind also that I am nowhere near the financial strata where you are (major props to you), so that is a factor...but I would think this is a question that applies to one degree or another to many people.
Thanks! All is well, just been super busy in the last few months
@@OffshoreCitizen Having now watched the first 6 minutes, I have a question. As I consider moving overseas, it seems that we have "too much stuff" (a not uncommon American phenomenon) - even with realizing that a significant portion of it will not come...how do you deal with that? (For example, I have more than a few musical instruments.) Do you just keep your computer and some clothes and move to various places? Keep in mind also that I am nowhere near the financial strata where you are (major props to you), so that is a factor...but I would think this is a question that applies to one degree or another to many people.
Bulgaria and Sofia airport is dreadful for European flight connections. Ive lived hear for the last 8 years and trying to meet friends from uk elsewhere in Europe is a constant headache meaning id usually need connecting flights
There is a lot more high end apartment buildings now but unless you earn €100k after tax or have €600k cash you cant afford to live there
Agreed! That airport is QUITE bad
I’ve been waiting for this video ;)
Ha, me too :)
I lived in Bulgaria for past two years and all I can say is: complete shit show.
1. Bureaucracy: Bulgaria's bureaucratic processes can be complex and time-consuming. Obtaining permits, licenses, and dealing with government agencies may involve significant paperwork and delays.
2. Corruption: Bulgaria has struggled with corruption issues in the past, which can affect business operations. It is important to be aware of this and take necessary precautions to ensure a transparent and ethical business environment. Certain sectors such as healthcare controlled by mafia meaning government. Infiltrating market is a complete joke if you dont have connections.
3. Infrastructure challenges: While Bulgaria has made progress in improving its infrastructure, there are still areas where it lags behind. In some regions, transportation networks and logistics.
Infrastructure is broken completely. A lot of new construction sites but no one invests in roads. Shit show
4.Political Instability: country that couldn’t form a parliament for almost two years.
5.Low Taxes: Absolute scam, due to the fact that you will have to constantly pay different service fees, accountants are expensive because of intricate accounting system.
6.Inefficient VAT system
List keeps on going further, but all I can say: forget about moving here, sometimes its better to pay higher taxes and live in a system that properly functions.
Go explain these shits to yourself in front of the mirror. Such a trolling post!
If the topic for this video wasn't Bulgaria, I'd think you are commenting on Germany. I rather take the lower taxes in BG - if the set-up is so similar.....
I wonder are they many taxi drivers in Canada to speak Bulgarian? Or municipality officers? Are they any?
Of course not, Bulgarian is an insignificant language, while English is the global business language so people around the world frequently learn it
@@OffshoreCitizen obviously you are slightly mistaken: Bulgarian authorities are not your business partner! They follow the constitution where it clearly said official language is: BULGARIAN!!! As all immigrants in Canada learn French and English as official language, as all foreigner in Bulgaria are expected to obey the constitution and speak the local language!! Hope you understand this as soon as possible or you may make more videos how life is unfair! By the way every European speaks two or three languages, but for our friends across the pond this is eresy. Too difficult, a???
@@OffshoreCitizeninsignificant language? Wow, did you learn that arrogance in Canada! Sorry, there are not insignificant people or nations mister.
Silly Europeons...
I spent a long time learning Japanese, A TON of effort.
Think I'm going to spend 10 000 hours learning Bulgarian even tho I may move in 6-12 months, who knows? NO.
Yes, most languages are insignificant in a GLOBAL context.
Bulgarian is primarily useful IN BULGARIA! Who would've thunk it?
Spanish is however an example of a slightly significant language.
If you want Bulgarian to become significant, then create a new Bulgarian Empire and I will agree with you when you've conquered a dozen countries.
English is 1000x more useful than Bulgarian globally.
My language Norwegian is 99,9999% useless outside Norway.
Hence why in Japan I was an English teacher and not a Norwegian teacher!
Get out of your bubble if you want to make any money at all.
@@fjorddenierbear4832"who would've thunk it" and then we have groups like funny japanese signage😂
What are your thoughts on general AI type technologies. Have you seen what John Carmack has said on the topic?
can you add a link please?
Big conversation... The hype is currently ahead of the reality but lots of interesting stuff
Yes I've listened to some of what he's said
@@marxamillion5576 th-cam.com/video/xLi83prR5fg/w-d-xo.html
This is the most insightful take I've seen regarding this topic. I find it very interesting how few people attempt to define what they mean by AGI. Even defining it turns out to be oddly hard.
Did you end up getting citizenship there?
you can get a citizenship within 1 year
when you put two minutes of ads before you even start, it is so annoying people don't want to keep watching
It is so difficult to order things online that I received more than 100 shipping orders from China :D :D :D
I am a Bulgarian citizen and I live in Turkey. I want to go to the USA and seek asylum due to political, religious, racial, and bullying reasons. I heard that Bulgaria will join the Schengen area in 2025 and then join the ESTA visa exemption program like other European countries. If I go and seek asylum with this method, do I have a chance of success depending on my reasons?
Get the point?
My dude, everywhere you go for a living, you need at least to try to learn the local language. Even by saying some basic phrases like "zdrasti" change the experience and open closed doors. I currently live with a Polish lady who refuses to learn Bulgarian and she lives here for 7 years now and she's constantly complaining that she has inconveniences and that everything here sucks but she refuses to learn the language or integrate into the society. Well...I can't help a person who doesn't want to be helped.
For context, I used to live in Croatia, Greece, Slovakia and Czechia and always tried to learn some of the local languages. I went specifically to Greece to learn the language because I'm an hellenophile but that's a different story.
Good luck in your journey and maybe you will be back in the future, who knows.
Why does your lady refuse to learn the local language? To refuse it after living there for 7 years doesn’t seem right. How can anyone enjoy living in a country without even making an effort to understand and learn the local language at some point…. 🧐🧐
@@sallygoldfinger she's not "my lady", we are just friends who live together but I agree with you. I asked her couple of times why she is refusing to learn the language and she just doesn't want to do it. Basically she puts borders on herself and is unhappy because she doesn't have any other Bulgarian friends besides me. She is just staying in her Polish bubble for years now and I personally find this odd. And I told her that. I can't learn Bulgarian for her, she needs to make some efforts too. She understands some of it because she is Polish and her language is kinda close to Bulgarian but not so much. She doesn't make any efforts of learning how to speak the language tho. Or at least try.
I traveled to Sofia and other parts of Bulgaria. If you speak a little conversational Bulgarian with good pronunciation they will think you are an immigrant without the respect to fully learn the language and judge you for it. If you only speak English they will think you are a somewhat rare tourist and treat you well (meaning normally). Many people are easily irritated by foreigners for no reason.
Well, I rarely I watch a full video of 16 minutes. I expected a lot of cons about Bulgaria from a video with the title "Why I left Bulgaria". But actually you mentioned a lot of pros, and the cons are mostly about your personal preferences, except at the end, the language and the weather !
Appreciate you watching till the end :)
What are your thoughts? Have you ever been to Bulgaria?
@@OffshoreCitizen Yes, several times recently, and since I have already business dealings there, I am seriously moving there after my retirement. The language barrier and the quality of the health system are the only factors that make me doubt. Both are probably manageable. I met a lot of young people who speak English well. But I don't like to stay in a country of which I don't know the language.
I am not the slightest bit interested in drone vantage. I will see people in shops and on the street.
isn't pollution a problem in Sofia? I remember a documentary about old diesel cars from western Europe ending in Bulgaria. But maybe things have improved.
During the winter the air pollution isn't great during the rest of the year it's fine, I'd usually go away for the winters anyway as I've had enough of the cold for a lifetime
Trade offs in every place though
It's bad, but you can live in the mountain suburbs to be above the smog layer
Im also in the same situation living in Bulgaria for since 2021, but going to UEA and pay 9 procent in any situation now will not make me wanna move to it.. when it was still 0 procent it crossed my mind allot.
There are still strategies for most people
So for the sake of amenities and other material stuff, you settled in a place that was literally built and is still being built by slave labour. The cost of such 24 hour grocery stores at fancy Dubai apartment blocks is immeasurable human suffering. To me, it's inexcusable that anyone with a hint of morality would chose to live in Dubai with the reasoning "that's where I like it the most", especially when they have the means to live anywhere else in the world. I guess no taxes and amenities are always more important than being a good and compassionate human being, even in such extreme cases. And no, it's not about whether you can change the status quo in Dubai. You can't, obviously. But you have the option not to live there, therefore not being an accomplice in this: th-cam.com/video/qJqqw1S8nHI/w-d-xo.html
3:23: (nazi) Canda is not an option anymore, Bulgaria is very underrated unfortunately, Dubai is more tax friendly I think and more opportunities…..Dubai is my next place where I gonna live….
This could have been much shorter- RESPECT your viewers time.
If the system was functioning so well we also wouldn't have those benefits that businessmen choose Bulgaria for in the first place. I am seeing a lot of negativity in the comments especially about the language. Well we are also not having the easiest time learning english but we are doing it for our own benefit. Talk to any 20-something year old in Sofia and you'll be able to communicate in egl, of course it's rare for people in their 40s or 50s. Go to France and try not speaking a word of french there for years. I think many of the commenters just don't like how bulgarian sounds so they don't want to invest time in it which is fine but then ofc bulgarins won't want to invest tine in alking to you. I am getting the impression foreigners want us to kneel for them, provide them better infrastructure but keep being poor so prices are low.
You have a point there. Lots of young people can speak English. I believe that lots of foreigners would like to learn Bulgarian, especially if they want to stay in Bulgaria long term but it’s a very difficult language to learn (unless you already speak a similar language such as Serbian or Russian).
And yes, Bulgaria is a business friendly country which attracts entrepreneurs from all over Europe and further.
Every country has positives and negatives it’s up to the individual to decide what matters to them and choose accordingly
I'm in Sofia right now.. I have spent this whole summer exploring places to live and doing research in Greece, Spain and Portugal.. I thought Spain would be it because of the South's good all year round weather and the fact I know a lot of Spanish, but their tax policies are sooo bad, and Spain can be boring.. Bulgaria was the last place on my list.. Thing are a lot easier as a couple I think, then a single guy moving somewhere... but what I can say, language barriers are tough over time. I may go back to the U.S., or live somewhere like Canada because not having language barriers is really great, people take language for granted. Not everyone can learn a language like Bulgarian or want to put the time in.. Just yesterday someone was trying to teach me "Thank You" and it was so hard I just lost it and said it sounded like Chinese and started to make fun of the word.. You will always be an outsider, and not many people actually know English well in Bulgaria.. I would love to live somewhere so affordable and have the freedom it brings, but looking back after 5, 10 plus years here, would I regret it? I think so..
Malaysia is good in that regard
I was in Bulgaria when I started my online company, which is still registered there. For living: Try out the baltics. EVERYONE speaks perfect English which improves social life so much. You might of course have to go more south during winters.
why did you choose Bulgaria instead of Romania? Lol.
Much easier language, bigger country, has mountains & sea side. Taxes were/are still pretty good. People are warm and women are beautiful :)
plus A LOT of people speak English really well in Romania. More than half. Especially folks under 45
As ex communist country we don't need English in Bulgaria, because there is not foreigns. Foreigns don't want Bulgaria, because their Government have brainwashed them. We are poor, bad not happy and who know what else.
Wonder if your Father was Canadian can a US citizen get citizenship /passport from Canada? Not to live there.
You should be able to yes
Where are you based now?
Dubai