Cost Of Living

Petrol prices are about what they are in Ireland, maybe a little cheaper. Self-service petrol stations are located along all the main roads. A lot of these have small coffee shop/snack bars. Very useful to break a long journey.

Taxis are very cheap and it is hard to imagine how most drivers make a living. The exceptions here are the taxis in Sunny Beach. Be careful here- still much cheaper than Ireland or UK- but be aware of the prices.

Purchasing a car in Bulgaria is an option if you are buying an apartment or villa. A decent ‘’run –around’’ can be purchased for under 3000 Euro and insurance is very cheap. Most apartment complexes come with 1 parking spot per apartment.

Currency:
Bulgarian leva. The Leva is pegged to the Euro at a rate of just over 1.95 leva to 1 Euro..
Cash is easily changed at numerous small exchange offices, usually for no commission. Travellers' cheques are more of a hassle as many banks do not accept them, and those that do will charge a commission of around 5%. ATMs are a common sight in Sofia and at Black Sea resorts, and cash advances on credit cards are also available in these areas. Still, it's best to bring plenty of cash to Bulgaria. Under no circumstance should you change money in the street if anyone stops you and tells you he will give you a better rate than the banks. As usual, if it seems too good to be true it usual is and you will be ripped off.