The Ridiculously Affordable Bulgarian Riviera
Not to mention beautiful!
When I made the video below, the conversion rate between the U.S. Dollar and Bulgarian Lev was $1.80. Now it’s $1.82 as of this writing. That’s right, any U.S. Dollars you spend in Bulgaria have ~80% more buying power.
Don’t think the merchandise, food, and drinks are cheap. They may be affordable, but the quality is generally superb.
Take the classic Bulgarian drink, rakia, for example. At my favorite restaurant in Burgas, Bulgaria, you can purchase a shot (that you sip!) of one of my favorite brands, Burgas 63, for 3.59 BGN.
As of today’s conversion rate, that’s $1.97! And it’s amazing!
The same can be said for clothes, trinkets, and other consumer products. Some of our favorite shopping is in Burgas, Bulgaria. Not only because it’s so affordable, but due to the high level of quality at a very reasonable price.
Explore the Bulgarian Riviera
While I cannot speak for northern towns like Varna that I have yet to visit, I have explored everything from Sunny Beach and Nesebar to Burgas and Sozopel. It’s an incredible coastline along the Black Sea.
Over the past ten years, my Bulgarian wife and I typically stay in Burgas and explore from there. By far the best time to visit is in the summer. All of the shops and restaurants are open and the entire area comes alive.
While it may be slower during the winter, it’s fun in different ways. The Black Sea coastline is still stunning, and the shops are warm and inviting. I love sitting out at The Sea Garden with an espresso in hand, watching the waves in the distance.
For the ultimate Burgas, Bulgaria travel guide, check out this video:
The most underrated city in Europe?
I would argue that Burgas, Bulgaria is the most underrated city in Europe. Few people know about it. The city is difficult to get to unless you take a regional airline into the small Burgas airport, or arrive by car or bus.
But it is so charming and the scenery is stunning. If you are a fan of the sea like me, this place is for you.
In the video below, we explain why we think Burgas is the most underrated city, while also giving recommendations on places to stay. In addition, we give advice on how to maximize your experience in Burgas, and in the other beautiful towns like Nesebar along the Bulgarian Riviera.
Inside Hotel Bulgaria
One of our favorite places to stay is in the center of Burgas at Hotel Bulgaria. This full-service hotel is perfectly situated and has every amenity you can imagine. Great gym, a beautiful spa, huge pools for adults and kids alike, and excellent restaurants and bars.
We did a full hotel and room tour in the video below. Don’t miss it.
Alternatively, you can also check out the Grant Hotel & Spa Primoretz, which is best during the summer as it’s along the Black Sea and has a stunning outdoor pool.
I love the Bulgarian Riviera and I’m confident you will too
My wife converted me about a decade ago, and I’ve never looked back. We try to go at least once a year, although the flight is long from New York City (especially with connections in London). But it’s totally worth the effort.
If you do go, let me know how it goes. I’m happy to answer any questions you add to the comments section below or in any of the videos linked above.
Safe travels and hope to see you on the Bulgarian Riviera sometime soon!
Make sure to check out more at thebonvivanter.com for more travel adventures!