Today we have the pleasure to share with you the history of our new friend Ariadna Quintana, who come from Tarragona, Spain to Sofia Bulgaria to do volunteering to help people in difficult situations, we also want to thank her to take the time and share her Expat Story with all of us.
Name and nationality:
I am Ariadna, and I am from Tarragona, Spain. I strongly recommend you to go if you enjoy ancient cities, with an important cultural heritage from the Roman Empire.
Tell us a bit about you and what you do
I was graduated in International and European Law in Belgium, and I had to move back to Spain, but I knew I didn’t want to stay there long.
I wanted a change in my life and I found the European Solidarity Corps program, which offers the opportunity to people younger than 30 years old to do volunteering in the EU. I decided to come to Bulgaria for a one year program, in which I work with refugees, single mothers, Roma children and people in difficult situations.
Since the beginning of my volunteering program, I started a personal project: I created Reinventarme para adaptarme. It is a blog where I share some of my experiences working with vulnerable collectives. I also write about those social issues in Bulgaria that shocked me the most.
Why and when did you come to Bulgaria?
I moved to Sofia last February, to start this European project. And, even though it ends in February 2020, I am planning to stay longer.
What do you like about your country of origin?
The things that I like the most are the Mediterranean climate and food. I believe that the weather makes people happier and more open to make plans.
I miss having a beer on a terrace in the middle of the winter and especially having lunch every Sunday with my whole family. I am very familiar, and I am used to sharing my achievements and concerns with them, as they do with me as well.
What are some differences between your country and Bulgaria?
The language and the climate are for sure the biggest differences. However, I found that Bulgarian and Spanish society can be quite similar in many aspects!
What do you like about Bulgaria?
There are many things that I like about Bulgaria, but there are three that I really love! In my opinion, expats are very welcomed in Bulgaria, especially if you put effort into learning the language. I also think that the pace of life in Sofia is not that stressful if you compare it with other European capitals. And finally, there are several breathtaking natural spots around the country. If you like hiking or to camp, you can’t miss: the seven Rila lakes, Belogradchik, and the amazing caves and waterfalls.
What was the most difficult bureaucratic procedure you have undergone so far in Bulgaria?
Some months ago, I wanted t buy a camper van and the process was extremely complicated. First of all, I had to apply for the residency (for which I need a lot of documents, and every time I went to the migration office they ask me for something new). Secondly, we had to arrange the documents to buy the car, which took us a couple of weeks.
After a lot of time and patience I could buy it, and it completely worth it!
Mention one important experience you’ve had in Bulgaria :
As a part of the volunteering program, I have met amazing people. I have met people that live hard situations at home, and that always makes me laugh when we are together; people that have big economical problems, and made a pair of socks for me; others that are extremely grateful for the time that I spend with them.
During these months I have collected some memories that I am sure I am never going to forget.
If you have the chance to change something in Bulgaria, what it will be?
There is a big problem with the social services in the country. They are not enough, and not well distributed. I hope that after economic growth it can be solved.
What languages do you speak other than your mother tongue?
Apart from Catalan and Spanish, I only speak English. I am trying my best with Bulgarian, even though I am still far from being able to have a conversation.
What countries have you been to?
I have visited most countries in Western Europe, and it was during these last months when I had the opportunity the visit the Balkans. I traveled with the van around Macedonia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Greece, and Turkey. Next week I am planning to visit Romania as well.
How is your business going (in case you have a company or business that you would like to talk about?
Reinventarme para adaptarme is not a business for me, but a hobby. I am thankful for the incredible people I meet during this process. And, the most important thing for me, is that many people contacted me to get involved with a charity.
What advice would you give to other people who would like to come to live in Bulgaria?
Don’t hesitate and come to Bulgaria! This country has a lot to offer to expats: good quality of life, new places to discover, a strong culture and traditions, and a lot of fun! Moreover, there are many working opportunities for foreigners who speak some languages.
We want to thank Ariadna for participating in Expats Stories, and we wish her good luck and success during her stay in Bulgaria.
