[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]

As our time in Varna is winding down, I’m finding that living (almost) like a local in this sunny, in places very rustic, paradise on the Black Sea coast quite appealing. It’s easy to find your way around, so long as you watch your step as the sidewalks are generally in some state of disrepair. While it’s not as affordable as the places we’ve visited in Roumania, going out for meals isn’t going to break the bank. We’ve been less inclined to cook while here in Varna. It could have something to do with the electric stove that probably predates Stalin, but more likely due to the options, the sheer number of patios and the overall relaxed rhythm of the place. A simpleton, perhaps, but I take great delight in people watching with a chilled glass of Rosé.

On the topic of living like a local, we even had a brief brush with the non-emergency medical system here. We sought out a clinic that had good reviews and also happened to be close enough geographically. We were greeted by an English-speaking liaison who also made sure we knew where to go and what to do. It was clean, efficient and professional. Culturally, this is still Bulgaria though so one still has to be a bit assertive. Reason being the over-worked doctors are often side-tracked by other patients, so playing a bit of interference on the way to the examination room may be in your best interest.

The Black Sea that I had so looked forward to swimming in, was a disappointment however. Sadly, the countries abutting the Black Sea aren’t best know for being shining beacons of environmentalism. The poor body of water is so polluted that I made the pragmatic decision to stay out lest some parasite find their way in forcing us to revisit a medical clinic with an actual emergency. The local natural springs might have been an option however. Simple wading pools, chockablock with speedo-adorned bronzed locals are available for the adventurous traveller. The odoriferous water, owing to an off-the-charts sulphur content was enough of a turn me around at the gate though. With effluent in the sea and sulphur in the springs, the swimming gear had to stay in their packing cube despite the oppressive heat.

As much as we have enjoyed our time in Varna, one question remains unanswered: What excites the Bulgarians; what are they passionate about? With a latitude and growing season comparable to Italy, I had expected a much greater focus on produce and locally-made food, cheeses and wines. If they’re in abundance, they have been well hidden and escaped us. The search continues in the capital, Sofia.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_gallery admin_label=”Gallery” gallery_ids=”3438,3443,3446,3449,3448,3441,3458,3460″ fullwidth=”off” orientation=”landscape” show_title_and_caption=”on” show_pagination=”on” background_layout=”light” auto=”off” hover_overlay_color=”rgba(255,255,255,0.9)” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]