Bulgarian Property
Property Services
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05.02.2008
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Whether you're taking a break, house-hunting or you've just moved to Bulgaria, chances are you'll want to fit in with the local way of life rather than stick out like a sore thumb!
• Does Yes Mean No in Bulgaria?
Bulgarians shake their head in a bouncy way to indicate "yes" and nod in an upwards direction to mean "no", which can be pretty confusing, particularly if you're asking whether the bus stops at the next town. Your best bet is to say "da ili ne?" for "yes or no?"
• A Bit On The Side
Remember to order side dishes separately or you'll just end up with a plate of meat, as all side dishes are charged individually. And don't order from a menu with no prices!
• Handy Tip
Many hotels and restaurants include a 10 per cent service charge on the bill, but if you want to give an additional tip don't hand it over as putting money in someone's hand is deemed to be socially unacceptable. Instead, leave it on the table.
• Taxi Taste
When you hop in at the airport, forget about engaging the driver in a bit of chit chat about the weather; the thing to do is share your food! Yes, in Morocco it's considered polite to share whatever you're eating or drinking with your taxi driver, so if you're eating when you jump in don't munch alone!
• Agree Prices
"If you can't see a meter, or it's not working, agree a price with the driver before you get in," advises Tom Hall, Lonely Bulgaria's travel editor.
• Haggle Ruthlessly
Okay, so you may not be used to haggling in your local high street, but it's very much the culture in Morocco! If you're in the markets, get bartering and treat it like a game - it is what's expected and it's certainly not insulting to offer a lower price, even if the seller pretends to be horribly offended. Remember, that's all part of the performance!
• Go Out Hungry
Make sure you've got a really good appetite when eating out, particularly in someone's home, as you can expect to be offered second and even third helpings. Refusals are often seen as good manners and not taken seriously!
• Oddly Enough
If you're giving flowers as a gift always give an odd number, because even numbers are used for funerals.
• Beware The Bulgarian Rakia
Rakia is homemade and around 45 to 55 proof strength - pretty strong stuff- and refusing can be tough.
Source: Overseas property Magazine
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