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| From Wales to Polski Trambesh: How a British Family Found Home in a Bulgarian Village |
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They encourage Bulgarians abroad to come back home.
Hannah, Steve, and their daughter Nix didn’t need long to fall in love with Bulgaria. For the past few years, their home has been a small village near Polski Trambesh. While they admit they prefer to drink rakia only for sore throats, traditional dishes like banitsa and kebapche have become staples in their daily meals. They plan to grow old in Bulgaria—and they have a message for Bulgarians living abroad: it’s time to come home.
Their first encounter with the country was about seven years ago during a trip through the Northwest region. That visit led them to explore the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo. While on holiday, they came across a house listing—and felt compelled to see it.
“None of this was planned,” says Hannah Dwight. “That’s how we ended up in this area. It felt like fate. We told ourselves, ‘Let’s just go see the house,’ and I fell in love with it immediately. We went back to the UK, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it.”
They fell in love with Veliko Tarnovo too—its charm, history, and cultural life.
“We really liked Veliko Tarnovo. It’s such an interesting city because of its rich history. It’s also very focused on art, culture, and music,” adds Steve Dwight.
At the time, they were still living in Wales, but every trip back to Bulgaria filled them with anticipation. Hannah even began painting old Bulgarian houses—something she says doesn’t exist back home.
“I remember painting them in the winter. I think I was just imagining I was back in Bulgaria,” she shares.
For Steve, every experience in the country was new and exciting.
“It’s fascinating to learn about the culture and history. Living in a village is so peaceful—perfect for raising our daughter. It’s very safe here,” says the New Zealander.
The couple is optimistic about Bulgaria’s future. They believe it’s a land of potential—not just for tourists, but for those seeking a fulfilling life.
“It’s not just about the beach, or skiing in the mountains. I think Bulgaria has something for everyone,” Steve explains.
When it comes to Bulgarian food, the family has embraced the local cuisine. Banitsa, kebapche, and cabbage dishes are favorites. As for rakia, the opinions are mixed.
“I like it,” says Hannah, while Steve admits it’s not his favorite.
“I’m sorry—I find it a bit like brandy, a strong fruit alcohol. But it’s useful! Medicinal even. I’d drink it for a sore throat,” he laughs.
Back in Wales, Hannah worked as a graphic designer and Steve in radio and TV production. Today, Hannah teaches English, and Steve works at a local crafts school. He’s also a member of the rock band “Hinterlands.” Meanwhile, their daughter Nix just finished her first year of school in Bulgaria.
Steve believes there’s a bright path ahead for the country.
“I don’t know what Bulgaria was like in the past. I understand life might have been very different 10, 15, or 30 years ago when people left. But I believe there are many opportunities now. There are companies relocating here because they want a multilingual workforce,” he explains.
His message to Bulgarians living abroad is simple and heartfelt:
“If there’s a Bulgarian thinking about coming back—just come, spend a little time here. I’m sure you’ll find a reason to stay.”
This story is a reminder that sometimes, home isn't where you're from—it's where you find peace, purpose, and a future worth investing in. |
| Friday, Jun 20, 2025 |
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| » RENTALS |
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| House Floor |
€ 460 |
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| Location: |
Veliko Tarnovo |
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