Today our friend Zina, a Dane wine and travel enthusiast, will tell us why she chooses Bulgaria to live and starts her own business.
Name and Nationality
Zina Sørensen, Dane (Denmark)
Tell us a bit about you?
I am originally from Denmark but I consider myself a citizen of the world. I have an undergraduate degree (BSc) in International Hospitality Management from The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management (Dubai, United Arab Emirates) and École Hôtelière de Lausanne (Switzerland). I also have a Master’s degree (MSc) in Environmental Management & Policy from the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics (IIIEE) at Lund University (Sweden).
I am a wine and travel enthusiast. I spend my time arranging wine tours, blogging about wine-related news and events, creating online marketing content, working with international partners to raise the awareness of Bulgarian wine tourism and touring wine regions.
What do you do in Bulgaria?
I am the co-founder and manager of Bulgaria Wine Tours – a tour operator specialized in wine, food, and cultural tours.
Why and when did you come to Bulgaria?
I came to Bulgaria end of 2013 after meeting my Bulgarian fiancée in Sweden in 2012.
What do you like about your country?
I like many things about Denmark. The welfare system, the strong labor rights and the commitment to environmental issues and a sustainable future.
What differences do you see in your country and Bulgaria?
Over the last few years, I have seen official studies that say that Denmark is the least perceived corrupt country in the EU, while Bulgaria is the highest perceived corrupt country in EU. Bulgaria is one of the most affordable European countries, while Denmark is one of the most expensive European countries. Denmark is also widely considered one of the happiest countries in the world, while Bulgaria tends to rank at the bottom. I personally feel happier in Bulgaria. I see and feel that Bulgaria is more relaxed, a little wild and less rigid when it comes to rules, while life in Denmark is a little more disciplined and defined by structure and rules.
What do you like about Bulgaria?
The nature, weather and laid-back atmosphere.
Which was the most difficult document/permission for you to get when you move to Bulgaria?
I would say that nothing has been too difficult for me. We had to wait a while for a tourism license but this is completely normal.
Mention one important experience you’ve had in Bulgaria…
Being able to set up my own business, which is something I never thought I would do, has been an amazing experience. Of course, I will be getting married here very soon so that will probably become the most important experience for me in Bulgaria.
Do you speak other languages?
I speak Danish, English, a little French and a little Bulgarian.
Have you visited other countries?
I have not only been lucky enough to travel and see many countries but I have been an expat for most of my life and have lived in over 10 countries.
What advice would you give to other people who would like to come to live in Bulgaria?
I would say have realistic expectations, do your research, relax and be patient. It’s a great place to live.
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