Living in Bulgaria

People who have few savings or investments and rely solely on the UK state

pension can enjoy a really good standard of living in Bulgaria, according to financial and property expert Chris Downham.

Says Chris: “Many people have a dream of retiring to a home in the continental sun and leaving the cold and damp of Britain behind.  But in many popular destinations they may have a shock as they find their UK pension hardly covers the basics, let alone providing a decent lifestyle.

“There’s a serious pensions shortfall which is ultimately going to affect up to 30 million people in the UK.   We are already looking at a pensions crisis for many people approaching pensionable age.  A high cost of living coupled with unforseen expenses can end up causing a majority of pensioners to struggle when they should be enjoying a well earned and relaxing retirement. If they don’t have considerable additional savings the Government pension will not be enough to meet the cost of living in many European countries like France, Spain, and Italy.  The Government’s solution to this is to ask people to defer retirement to the age of 75.”

Bulgaria, which joined the EU in January 2007, has so many advantages as a destination for pensioners.  It has a vastly superior climate to that of the UK; its beaches and mountains are already well known, but central Bulgaria with its huge areas of unspoiled natural beauty is a hidden treasure.   That’s where

SimpliBulgaria have built their award- winning* Geshaview well being village

*Geshaview won two International Property Awards in November 2006 for Best Development and Best Property in Bulgaria.

near the ancient capital of Veliko Tarnova and Dryanova  - known as ‘town of the centenarians’ as the climate and lifestyle have created a place where many people over the age of 100 happily live.  The stunning countryside will be familiar to UK buyers as it is similar to the Lake District but with much better weather.

Geshaview offers pensioners the best of both worlds.  Due for completion in 2008, the village features a mix of attractive properties with 21st century interiors (including broadband), where retirees can enjoy walking and many sporting activities in a healthy environment (there’s no air pollution), a natural swimming pool and spa facility with secluded woodland jacuzzis, cultural pursuits (there’s an art gallery and craft studios), organic restaurants, a hotel, bars, and shops.  English speaking staff can help source local tradesmen and give advice about the area.  And a journey home is just a few hours away. 

The added benefit is that the UK pound will go a very long way in Geshaview.  The GDP (gross domestic product) per capita is a third that of the UK; and labour costs are low (UK costs are at least 20 times the Bulgarian equivalent); private health care is very reasonable and the cost of living is a quarter of that in the UK.  

Says Chris Downham: “Eateries are so reasonable that residents can eat out all the time, if they want to!  A tremendous meal, coupled with fine wines, costs no more than £5 per person.  But most people like to enjoy being at home much of the time, cooking barbecues and enjoying the air and feeling of space.  All the Geshaview homes are built to a superior specification by local Bulgarian craftsmen, with traditional exteriors and hand carved timber features.  They all have private balconies and terraces, but residents can meet with other visitors and residents as and when they choose.  Many pensioners look forward to an active retirement.  Geshaview is a solution to a healthier, wealthier and longer life.”

“For those residents who want to rent out their properties for some of the year, SimpliBulgaria is committed to facilitating this, for up to 52 weeks in the year if required.”

Local tourist attractions include the stunning ancient capital of Veliko Tarnovo, Roman ruins, Nikopolis Adistrum; the Central Balkan National Park and the Dryanova Monastery.  Nearby Gorna airport should soon be accepting international flights - the current nearest options being either Varna or Sofia. 

Article by website: www.simplibulgaria.com

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