In this occasion, we interview our dear friend Carlos Mena, a Chilean entrepreneur living in Bulgaria for more than 25 years, but he still keeps his love for Chile and his culture, and he will share his life experience with us!
Name and nationality:
Carlos Mena, born in Santiago, Chile.
Why and when did you arrive in Bulgaria?
I came to Bulgaria in 1990. I finished my Master’s degree in Economics at the University of National and World Economy in Sofia. Meanwhile, I started working and gained experience as a manager in international and local companies from various economic sectors.
What do you like about your country?
Chile is a unique place. It is a combination of nature, geography, and history. It is charming and surprising with its 3 different climatic zones. It is situated between the Pacific Ocean on one side and the lofty Andes on the other side which the average heights of 5000 meters.
The country is about 4900km long. What does this mean? Put it in practice – the length is from the southernmost part of Spain to the northernmost point of Sweden! So, you can never be lost – if the mountain is on your right, it means that the north is in front of you … ☺.
Among them, we have the Atacama desert – the driest place in the world which temperature range can reach 40-50 c degrees sometimes.
Some people say the word “Chile” means “where the land ends”. I would call it: The beginning of the world.
What differences do you see in your country and Bulgaria?
Our temper resembles us. But overall I would not say that there are very big differences. Of course, Bulgaria is several times smaller but nevertheless captures the various, beautiful and interesting places.
It is located in a very interesting geostrategic position. Its borders are with several countries and is the “bridge” between Europe and Asia so somehow it serves as a connection between two worlds.
The food is almost the same, with some peculiarities – such as the popara, the tarator, and other meals, who at first really surprised me…but that was until I tried them! And the tomatoes are fantastics … ☺
What do you like about Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is a beautiful combination, which consists of rich history, culture, many traditions and people’s desire to preserve the historical heritage, but at the same time to open up for the better. Bulgaria has more than 10 monuments, included in the UNESCO world cultural heritage.
Which country can boast such thing? Maybe a few. There is a say: “People who don’t bear in mind their history have no future.”
Do you also know that the nearest ski slope is only 20-30 minutes away from the center of the capital city? There are only 3 or 4 countries in the world with cities with such close ski slopes.
Those facts, as well as others such as the folklore music, the sound from the 100 bagpipes, the pravo horo dance..☺ (and beverages such as fine wine and rakia) fascinated me.
All stated, but not only, is enough to settle down in this wonderful country, isn’t it?
Mention one important experience you’ve had in Bulgaria
With the necessary amount of courage, combined with the accumulated knowledge and experience, in 2006 I created my own company “National Archives”.www.nacorp-bg.com and this is an achievement that makes me proud.
Do you speak other languages?
Yes, apart from my native Spanish, I speak Bulgarian French, English. I also have Russian knowledge.
Have you visited other countries?
Yes, I’ve been to many European countries – France, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Czech Republic, Greece, Russia, Ukraine. In others, I have only been for a while.
What advice would you give to other people who would like to come to live in Bulgaria?
You may think that Bulgaria is a tiny country, but in fact, it is a huge one.
Whether you will choose it as a holiday destination or aa a place to live in, read again all the reasons mentioned above. And the people, once they accept you, you can feel home. So be yourself, open your senses, learn with curiosity while respecting the local culture, the history, and the legislation. Treat the others as you would like to be treated.
And the last isn’t refer only to Bulgaria, but wherever you go.
I want to congratulate Daniel for the great idea behind “Foreigner.bg”! Really interesting and entertaining website with its life stories telling us the path and achievements of the foreigners, as well as a friendly platform for exchanging helpful information
