Bansko: Where Work, Adventure, and Inspiration Meet

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to spend a month in Bansko, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Pirin Mountains in Bulgaria. With a population of around 20,000, Bansko is more of a large village than a bustling city, but its beauty and tranquility make it a perfect getaway.

The Enchanting Town

Bansko is a place where the old meets the new. The town is dotted with ancient stone buildings that give it a medieval feel. The main streets are lined with shops and cafes, and there’s even a small stream where you can cool your feet. The town is also famous for its springs, with fresh, drinkable water flowing freely from numerous fountains.

Hot Springs and Ski Resorts

One of the highlights of my trip was exploring the hot springs around Bansko. These springs are crystal clear and have varying temperatures, with some as warm as 38-39°C. I visited three different hot springs, each offering a unique experience, from a lively pool with a volleyball court to a luxurious 5-star hotel with indoor and outdoor pools.

Bansko is also known for its ski resorts. Locals proudly mentioned that the town had hosted a World Cup ski event. Even in summer, I saw people training for skiing by ski-running on the asphalt serpentine roads with a combination of skis and rollers. It was fascinating to see their dedication and skill.

A Digital Nomad Haven

Bansko has become a haven for digital nomads, attracting a vibrant community of remote workers from around the world. The town offers an excellent balance of affordable living, high-speed internet, and a picturesque environment, making it an ideal location for those who can work from anywhere. Co-working spaces are popping up, fostering collaboration and networking among professionals from various fields.

The Nomad Festival

During my stay, I attended the Nomad Festival, which brought together over a thousand people from various backgrounds. The festival was a melting pot of ideas and cultures, with attendees including digital nomads, marketers, recruiters, and more. It was fascinating to see how people from different fields come together, share experiences, and inspire each other.

The People and Their Stories

The people I met in Bansko were truly inspiring. I spent time with digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and creatives from all over the world. Here are some of the standout individuals and their stories:

• The Dancer: One remarkable person I met was a former hip-hop dancer who had once been a big name in the dance industry. After some setbacks, he had moved to the Netherlands and was now looking to re-enter the dance world with a new app leveraging his extensive connections in the industry. His dance skills were extraordinary, and seeing him perform was like watching a professional movie dance sequence live.
• Ex-FAANG Employees: I also met several ex-FAANG employees who had left the corporate world to pursue entrepreneurship or to travel and speak at conferences around Europe. Their stories of leaving stable, high-profile jobs to follow their passions were incredibly motivating.
• The Entrepreneur: One of the most fascinating individuals I met was a Hungarian friend of mine who has a company in Cyprus but spends most of his time traveling the world with just one backpack. His company develops AI-powered photo apps that have become hugely successful, making millions. His lifestyle and business acumen are truly inspiring.
• The AI Guru: Another inspiring individual was a true AI guru who had moved to Bansko several years ago and was deeply involved in AI projects. His enthusiasm for teaching others how to use AI to enhance productivity was contagious and gave me new insights into the field.
• The Submarine Captain: I spent time with a retired British submarine captain who had fallen in love with Bulgaria after attending a NATO conference in the 1990s. His tales of life on a nuclear submarine and his journey to Bulgaria were fascinating.
• The Russian Girl: Another inspiring story was that of a young Russian woman from Kaliningrad. Fleeing the war, she started teaching children how to use Blender for 3D modeling, despite not having prior experience with the software. Her courage and ability to quickly learn and teach a new skill were truly admirable. She was already making a living from her courses and had plans to expand her reach.

Local Delights

The local cuisine was another highlight. I fell in love with tarator, a cold cucumber soup with yogurt, and shopska salad, a simple yet delicious mix of chopped vegetables and salty cheese. Banitsa, a pastry filled with cheese, quickly became a favorite snack.

Exploring Nature

Bansko is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. I spent time hiking in the mountains, where the views were breathtaking. The landscape is dotted with rocks and lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Final Thoughts

My month in Bansko was an unforgettable experience. The town’s charm, the warmth of its people, and the inspiring stories I encountered made it a special place. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, an adventurous escape, or a hub for digital nomads, Bansko has something to offer. I can’t wait to return and create more memories in this beautiful Bulgarian town.