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From London to Pravets: A Franco-Bulgarian Family’s New Life in Bulgaria

French-Bulgarian Family Relocates From London to Pravets for a Quieter Life A French-Bulgarian family with three daughters has traded more than a decade of metropolitan life in London for a quieter existence in the Bulgarian town of Pravets,…

From London to Pravets: A Franco-Bulgarian Family's New Life in Bulgaria

French-Bulgarian Family Relocates From London to Pravets for a Quieter Life

A French-Bulgarian family with three daughters has traded more than a decade of metropolitan life in London for a quieter existence in the Bulgarian town of Pravets, balkanec.bg reported. Sarafina, who is French, and Peter, a Bulgarian native, moved with their three daughters—twins Jada and Imani, and youngest daughter Malia—to be closer to family and secure a safer environment for the children.

The couple initially met more than seven years ago while working at the same restaurant in London. After losing touch for a period, they reconnected when Sarafina was already mother to her twin daughters. Peter integrated into the family, eventually welcoming their youngest daughter, Malia. After living in London for more than ten years individually and spending five years together there, the couple concluded that raising three children far from extended family was unsustainable.

Adjusting to Small-Town Life in Pravets

For Sarafina, the primary motivation for the move was safety and tranquility. She noted that London felt increasingly dangerous, whereas Pravets offers a secure environment where she can walk alone with her children. While the twins adapted well—having visited Pravets previously and being ready to leave their London school—Malia faced a brief adjustment period as she had only known city life.

The family experiences cultural contrasts daily. Sarafina admitted to missing inexpensive London fast food, specifically McDonald’s, but praised the warm reception from local residents in Pravets. Despite initial worries about fitting into a less diverse town, she found the community welcoming. The couple actively teaches their daughters to embrace differences, emphasizing internal character over external appearance.

Launching a New Business Venture in Bulgaria

Beyond the lifestyle change, the family is establishing professional roots in Bulgaria. Sarafina and Peter plan to launch a family business alongside Peter’s cousin, manufacturing children’s products made from wood and ecological materials. The enterprise will manage the entire commercial process from production to retail sales, representing a deliberate choice to build a sustainable future in Bulgaria.

Embassy of the republic of bulgaria london england

Frequently Asked Questions About the Family’s Relocation

Why did Sarafina and Peter decide to leave London?

After living in the UK capital for over a decade and spending five years together there raising three children without nearby relatives, the couple decided they wanted a safer, calmer environment closer to family.

What business are they planning to start in Pravets?

The family is partnering with Peter’s cousin to manufacture and sell children’s products made from wood and sustainable, ecological materials.

How have the children adapted to living in Pravets?

The twin daughters, Jada and Imani, adjusted easily because they had visited Pravets during holidays and disliked their previous school in London. Malia, the youngest, required more time to adapt since she had only known city life.

About the author: Marcus Liu - Business Editor

MBA and ex‑B bureau chief specializing in global finance and fintech. Marcus speaks Mandarin, Japanese, and English, and has interviewed CEOs from the Fortune 50 to Y‑Combinator unicorns. Marcus Liu delivers sharp analysis on markets, startups, and corporate strategy for investors and entrepreneurs alike.