Today in “Expats stories”, we talk with Aleksi, a Finnish IT entrepreneur, that moves to the sunny Varna to enjoy the warmth weather, the affordable cost of living and the convenient Bulgarian tax system.
Name and nationality:
My name is Aleksi Jetsu and I am from Finland
Tell us a bit about you, and what do you do?
I am Aleksi Jetsu, 38 years old and I am from Finland. I’ve made my career in IT and web development and currently I have my own Web Consultancy Agency here in Varna, Bulgaria.
I live together with my girlfriend and our three years old dog. I mainly work from home and in my spare time I love going for walks with our dog.
Why and when did you come to Bulgaria?
We moved to Bulgaria 3 years ago when we decided to move out from Malta. Similar warm climate as in Malta, low costs of living and the fact that my girlfriend is Bulgarian were the main reasons we decided to relocate to Bulgaria.
What do you like about your country?
There are many things I like about my country for example its food, nature and cleanliness. In addition its education and social security system create good foundation for everyone regardless of the background of a person.
What differences do you see in your country and Bulgaria?
There are many differences and biggest ones are cleanliness and living standards. I can definitely say that streets and infrastructure in Finland are much better maintained and in better shape than in Bulgaria.
Another big difference is weather. Where as Finland has long autumn and winter I really enjoy long summer in Bulgaria. Amount of sunny days is much higher as well in Bulgaria which definitely compensates other areas which are not as good.
What do you like about Bulgaria?
As already mentioned I really like the weather in Bulgaria. Long summer with great weather is perfect for spending summer days at the beach.
In addition I like the overall cost of living here and taxation make Bulgaria very attractive environment for entrepreneurship.
What have been the document/procedure most difficult for you in Bulgaria?
Registering my company and myself wasn’t that easy even I come from another EU country. I had to visit several different agencies back and forth and there were not straightforward procedures or guidelines how get things done. Because I did not speak the Bulgarian language this entire process was challenging for me.
Mention one important experience you’ve had in Bulgaria:
Its difficult to mention “one” important experience. The everyday life and the opportunity to have a morning coffee on the beach all year around is amazing.
Do you speak other languages?
In addition to Finnish, I speak also English and Swedish
Have you visited other countries?
I have lived in Finland, UK and Malta prior to Bulgaria. I am also privileged to have been able to travel during my life so much. I have been to most of the European countries and Russia several times and once in United States.
What advice would you give to other people who would like to come to live in Bulgaria?
It totally depends where you are coming, but stay open minded and patient. Like in other countries things might not work out the way they did in another one. Although it is not mandatory and I do not know myself, but it would help you a lot if you can speak Bulgarian language. It will not only help you with practical matters but helps you to adapt to society. You can also meet other expats and locals who will help you to start your life in Bulgaria.
It is all worth the “hassle” and Bulgaria is great place to live in. Welcome.
