Finding Bulgaria in London
If you’ve recently moved to London, the feeling of homesickness is probably just settling in and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Here are some of the best parts of the Bulgarian community in London to ease the distance from home.
We hope those of you who are studying in the UK are having an amazing time. However, if you’re not, that’s normal too! Living on the island could be overwhelming, especially in the capital. London is a fantastic place to study, with more international students than any other city, world-class universities, professional and social opportunities, and a mind-boggling cultural life. However, a lot of students have a difficult time when they’re studying abroad.
You may feel lost or like you don’t belong, but make no mistake, you are not alone. Even though the separation from your hometown’s peaceful atmosphere and the scent of a homemade cooked meal may be hard, you could still find yourself a home away from home.
During the Cold War, the Bulgarian community in the United Kingdom numbered 3,000–4,000 people. Later in the 1990s and 2000s, emigration to the United Kingdom became significantly active. The lack of favourable conditions and infrastructures for high skilled people have forced many Bulgarians to look for opportunities outside the country and especially in the UK.
Today, London is among the most desirable educational destinations for Eastern European students. Counteracting any fears about Brexit affecting its appeal to international students, the number of potential Bulgarian university candidates continue to increase. According to the Guardian, the current number of Bulgarian students in London is approximately 30,000.
While the EU average risk of poverty is 23 percent, more than 41 percent of Bulgarians find themselves falling into this category. Policy focused on growth appears to have failed as well and, despite funding from the EU employment, income and social inclusion decrease.
Poor countries like Bulgaria cannot afford to keep the great intellectual potential it produces.
The Bulgarian reality cannot offer field for personal and professional development to bright young people. The political and economical situation in Bulgaria a central problem that prompts. Many young people study abroad without any choice but to remain there afterwards.
Words: Debora Kirilova & Tsvetelina Petrova | Subbing: Claire Chung