Therapy Abroad’s Bulgaria & Black Sea Program is a unique opportunity for students to explore the field of occupational and speech therapy while gaining meaningful observation hours and immersive clinical experience. This 12-day interdisciplinary experience bridges community-based rehabilitation, pediatric and geriatric care, and cultural exploration—all while preparing students for graduate-level study and future careers in OT. In Bulgaria, you’ll work with licensed therapists in pediatric day centers and long-term geriatric facilities, gaining valuable exposure to occupational therapy in international, cross-cultural settings. Through direct engagement with clients, family education, and activity-based therapy, you’ll contribute to meaningful service while developing critical clinical and communication skills.

To cap off their time in Bulgaria, students will travel to the country’s beautiful Black Sea coast for a few days of exploration and relaxation. The journey includes a stay in Varna, a lively seaside city known for its charming promenades, golden beaches, and vibrant culture. Excursions include a visit to the stunning cliffside Aladzha Monastery, where centuries of history and artistry are carved into the rock, and a trip to Kaliakra Cape, a dramatic headland offering breathtaking views of the sea and rich legends of Bulgaria’s past. Students will also experience the pristine beauty of Bolata Wild Beach—one of the country’s most photographed natural treasures. This final leg of the program is a perfect balance of reflection, adventure, and cultural discovery along the sun-soaked shores of the Black Sea.

You can book this 12-day trip for the following date:

• July 24, 2026 - August 4, 2026

Please note this does not include travel days en-route. To book your spot, simply find the green "Book Now" button on this page, select the date you wish to travel with us, and put down your deposit. It's as simple as that!

• Undergraduate, post-bacc, or pre-professional students pursuing Occupational and Speech Therapy or Allied Health careers

• Students who want hands-on learning and clinical observation in international care environments

• Applicants preparing for SLP and OT graduate programs who want to enhance their resume, insight, and confidence

• Learners passionate about global health, neurodiversity, and inclusive therapy practices

This program provides a well-rounded schedule of supervised observation, structured interactions, and community outreach. Students will:

• Shadow SLPs and OTs in pediatric and adult rehab settings alongside supervising clinicians

• Visit local hospitals, therapy centers, and local universities

• Observe therapeutic techniques including sensory integration, ADL support, fall prevention, balance training and more

• Engage in guided reflection sessions and clinical debriefs with supervising clinicians

• Volunteer with community partners supporting individuals with disabilities

No other program combines group travel, study abroad, and hands-on professional development exclusively for CSD, SLP, audiology, PT, OT, music therapy, and related fields. If you’re aspiring to work in these careers, this is your chance for real-world learning like never before! You will leave this trip having:

• Merge practices in “developing countries” with those in the United States

• Broaden your understanding of socio-cultural stigmas and issues

• Market your international experience to universities and employers

• Learn about public health services in other countries

• Receive a letter of recommendation from our highly experienced OTs

Participants will build or strengthen the following competencies:

• Clinical and community health observation and reporting

• Cross-cultural communication and non-verbal interaction

• Understanding of primary healthcare systems and global health policy

• Public speaking and health education delivery to diverse populations

• Professional reflection, goal setting, and self-assessment

Therapy Abroad programs emphasize hands-on skill development in evaluation and treatment. On this trip you will have the chance to:

• Intercultural communication and clinical adaptability

• Understand core SLP and OT roles and responsibilities

• Communication partner training and family-centered care

• Understanding of healthcare disparities and global care systems

• Reflective practice and professional self-awareness

• Resume-ready experiences and graduate school preparation

Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Bulgaria is a country where ancient history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty come together. From its snow-capped mountains and rose-filled valleys to its lively coastal cities along the Black Sea, Bulgaria offers travelers a rich tapestry of experiences. The country’s history stretches back thousands of years—traces of Thracian, Roman, Ottoman, and Byzantine civilizations can be found in its architecture, art, and traditions. Today, Bulgaria blends old-world charm with modern European energy, offering vibrant cities, warm hospitality, and a deep cultural heritage. Whether exploring medieval monasteries, wandering cobblestone streets, or enjoying the relaxed pace of seaside life, visitors find Bulgaria to be both welcoming and unforgettable—a hidden gem at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe. You’ll be based in Veliko Tarnovo, a city known for its beauty and history, where you’ll engage with clients across the lifespan and experience a truly community-centered approach to care.

Bulgaria is an amazing place filled with rich history, excellent food and warm generous people. You will stay in hotel accommodations with communal areas to relax and hang out, meeting rooms for group discussions or presentations, and comfortable rooms for getting shut-eye. You will share a room with 1-3 other students and all rooms have private bathrooms and private beds. Every day you will have access to Wifi, fresh drinking water, western style toilets and showers, and laundry services (laundry will be on site or nearby). Meals will be a combination of Bulgarian and Western cuisine. We have a 100% guarantee that you will have plenty of amazing food! We can cater to specific dietary needs as long as you let us know ahead of time. In addition to Bulgaria’s many scenic charms, the warmth and hospitality of the people and culture will make you feel at home in no time!

The total program cost does not include international airfare. Therapy Abroad organizes a chaperoned flight. You can find out more information about flights and how they work here. Most students choose to travel on the chaperoned flight, though we have flexibility for those who cannot or choose not to.

With the exception of international airfare, everything is included in your program tuition! There are no surprise costs, no hidden “optional activities,” and no upselling. Your tuition covers all activities, materials, meals, and housing so you can focus on learning, exploring, and making the most of your time abroad without worrying about extra expenses. We know study abroad is a big investment for students and their families, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. From professional staff to comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and a full itinerary of meaningful activities, we’ve designed everything to give you the best possible experience.

The total tuition is $3,150:

• Non-refundable deposit: $1,000 (due at booking)

• Remaining balance: $2,150 (split into 3 payments)

And if you’re worried about payments, we’ve got options to help:

• Explore our Fundraising Guide with strategies and resources.

• Use our new built-in Contribution Page feature—just like GoFundMe, but directly linked to your program's tuition balance! So each time someone donates, you automatically owe less on your next payment.

• Bring a friend! We offer a refer-a-friend discount of $100 each. So help us spread the word while you lower your tuition.

• To save on extra processing fees, we recommend making your payment by ACH (direct bank transfer) at booking.

• Need more flexibility? We can help customize a payment plan that works for you—just ask!

We recommend that students bring about $200 as pocket money for souvenirs any extra snacks they want.

In the event of a cancellation, your deposit will be applied toward any tuition owed. Any remaining balance from the deposit will be held as a credit for a future Therapy Abroad trip. Refund percentages include the non-refundable deposit.

• 100% refund for cancellations made 90+ days before departure.

• 75% refund for cancellations made 90–61 days before departure.

• 50% refund for cancellations made 60–46 days before departure.

• 0% refund for cancellations made within 45 days of departure.

The deposit is non-refundable, but it can be transferred to a different program (for the same person only) as long as we’re told at least 60 days in advance. 

Safety is our top priority, and we take a hands-on approach to ensure every aspect of your experience is secure. Every location, accommodation, and activity is personally vetted by Therapy Abroad directors. From departure to return, we provide a seamless, worry-free experience. You’ll always be part of a group led by experienced facilitators—never outsourced staff. Our team ensures access to medical care, clean food and water, and reliable communication at all times.

Here are some links to our website that are worth exploring:

• More about this specific trip

• Explore TherapyAbroad.org

• Our mission at Therapy Abroad

• Meet our team

• Why travel with us

• Read student and staff reviews

• FAQ

A finalized and detailed itinerary will be shared with participants approximately one month prior to departure. This is a sample itinerary provided to give you a general idea of the types of activities, excursions, and clinical opportunities that may be included during your trip. Specific schedules may vary based on site availability, local partnerships, and group needs.

Today marks the beginning of your exciting journey. Be sure to get rest when you can, stay hydrated, and bring some snacks for the long flights. If you experience any issues with your flights or travel disruptions along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff team via WhatsApp. Our local team in Bulgaria will be eagerly awaiting your arrival!

After arriving at Sofia International Airport, you’ll collect your luggage and meet your private transfer just outside the baggage claim area—look for the Therapy Abroad signs to guide you. From there, you’ll head to a welcome lunch before checking in and having time to settle into your room and rest. In the evening, we’ll gather for a short walk around Sofia’s vibrant city center, followed by an early group dinner. After dinner you can enjoy free time exploring Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia’s lively pedestrian street known for its cafés, shops, and scenic views of Vitosha Mountain.

After breakfast, we will visit a local kindergarten to meet with the speech therapists, specialists and teachers there and get familiar with how the government provides help within these educational institutions to kids with special needs in a preschool age. You will get familiar with different methodologies and fields of speech therapy used by the local professionals.

After that you’ll set off on a guided walking tour of Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital and largest city. As we explore the city on foot, you’ll discover landmarks that showcase Sofia’s rich and diverse history—from ancient Greek and Roman ruins to remnants of the Soviet era. Highlights of the tour include the majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the historic St. Sofia Church and its catacombs, the bustling antique market, the ceremonial Changing of the Guard at the Presidency, and the preserved remains of the Roman city of Serdica.

Following the tour, we’ll enjoy lunch along Vitosha Boulevard. After our time in Sofia, we’ll begin our journey to Veliko Tărnovo, the former capital of Bulgaria and your home for the next nine nights. The scenic drive offers beautiful views of the Bulgarian countryside. Upon arrival, we’ll check in to the hotel, settle in, and gather for a group dinner at a local restaurant.

After breakfast, we’ll begin the day by exploring Veliko Tărnovo—one of Bulgaria’s oldest settlements and often considered the cultural and historical heart of the country. This will be a great opportunity to get oriented to the area where you’ll be staying for the week. We will walk on the old cobblestone street “General Gurko” in the old part of the town, enjoy the river views and visit the “Asenevtzi Monument” dedicated to the brothers Asen, Petar, Kaloyan and Ivan Asen II. It was built in 1985 to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the uprising of Asen and Petar, which led to the liberation of Bulgaria from the Byzantine Empire. The sword located in the middle is a symbol of the power and prosperity of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom.

For lunch we will visit Arbanasi, a unique settlement with the status of Architectural reserve and rich history. It is located on the hill overlooking the whole VT town. We will have lunch in a restaurant with a gorgeous view and visit the St. Nikolai’s monastery in close proximity to learn more about these sacred Eastern Orthodox places.

In the afternoon we will continue our exploration with a stroll through Veliko Tarnovo’s charming cobblestone streets and pay a visit to Samovodska Charshiya, the city’s historic market street. Lined with traditional crafts and shops, it’s the perfect place to browse and shop for unique, handmade crafts and souvenirs.

In the evening, we’ll return to the hotel for a Supervisor Session—a valuable opportunity to ask your supervisors about your chosen profession. It’s a great chance to learn from their experience, gain insights, and ask thoughtful questions. After the session, we’ll head out for dinner (with a view)!

After breakfast, we will visit the children’s center in the village of Gabrovo, where we will spend the morning engaging with the children and supporting local therapists in providing speech therapy services. The center serves 55 children, primarily between the ages of 7 and 18, who attend daily for care and specialised support. Gabrovo is known as the longest town in Bulgaria, stretching over 15 miles in length while measuring less than a mile wide in certain areas.

Today, our primary focus will be observing the local teachers and staff, including the Occupational, Speech, and Physical Therapists at the center. Please come prepared with questions and an open mind, ready to learn about these professions within a new cultural context. You will have opportunities to engage with the professionals, gain insights into the school environment, and learn more about the students. Be ready to participate in meaningful interactions with the local children. In the afternoon, we will take part in group activities, guided by your supervisors, who will assist in leading the sessions.

During the lunch break, we will take a step back in time with a visit to Etara, Bulgaria’s Open-Air Ethnographic Museum, where we will experience traditional Bulgarian life and craftsmanship. After exploring this unique cultural site, we will enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to the pediatric center for afternoon sessions.

In the evening, we’ll return to the hotel to reflect on your experience and to prepare to return to the children’s center tomorrow, where you will work as a group to plan activities for the students at the school. Don’t worry you will work as a team, and have the guidance and assistance of your skilled supervisors. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and put your creativity to the test!

Today, we will return to the children’s center in Gabrovo, where you will lead group activities with the students based on yesterday’s planning session. This will offer a deeper level of engagement and provide valuable hands-on experience. Additionally, it will be an excellent opportunity to further develop your skills in working with translators—an essential component of effective cross-cultural communication and collaboration. This will be a fun and engaging learning opportunity! 

For lunch, we’ll travel to the historic Shipka Peak, where we’ll enjoy a meal while taking in breathtaking panoramic views of both Northern and Southern Bulgaria from the summit—a moment to relax and recharge amidst stunning natural beauty.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to the pediatric center for an additional round of group activities that you have prepared as a group. After returning to the hotel in the evening, there will be time to reflect, document your experiences, and complete any necessary clinical notes or reporting from the day.

After breakfast, we will visit the adults center in Veliko Tărnovo, where we will spend the morning to get familiar with the structure of the institution and its operative methods. We will meet with the director and the local therapists. The center serves more than 80 adults, between the ages of 18 and 80, who attend daily for care and specialized support.

Today, we will be observing the local specialists and staff, including the Occupational, Speech, and Physical Therapists at the center. In the afternoon, we will take part in group activities such as Art and work therapy.

In the evening, we’ll return to the hotel to reflect on your experience and to prepare to return to the adults center the next day, where you will work as a group to plan activities for the clients at the center. Another great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and put your creativity to the test!

This morning we will visit the second largest university in the country - Veliko Tărnovo “St.st. Cyril and Methodius” university. Meet with professors and lecturers from the Psychology department.  

In the afternoon we will go exploring - we will have lunch at Bacho Kiro hut and after that we’ll delve into the depths of Bacho Kiro Cave, a natural wonder shaped over thousands of years by flowing rivers. Inside, you’ll marvel at the fantastically shaped stalactites, stalagmites, and rock columns with names like the Stone Flower, the Jellyfish, the Lonely Column, and the Elephant. Highlights include the Rain Room, the Concert Room, and the Guest Room. Thanks to an impressive lighting system, visitors can fully appreciate the cave’s surreal formations. This site is also part of Bulgaria’s 100 National Tourist Sites.

Next, we will head to Dryanovo Monastery “St. Archangel Michael”, a spiritual and cultural landmark nestled in the Balkan Mountains. Founded in the 12th century, this historic monastery has long been a center for Bulgarian Christianity and culture. Today, it continues to draw both worshippers and tourists alike. Recognized as a national monument of culture, it is proudly included in the list of 100 National Tourist Sites of Bulgaria.After an exhilarating day of exploration, we’ll return to the hotel for a well-earned rest and recharge for the adventures to come!

After breakfast, we will head to the town of Sevlievo, where we will meet with municipality representatives. We will visit Sevlievo hospital to get to know the health system of the country. After lunch we will head to Sevlievo center for children for disabilities to meet with the speech therapist and other professionals. 

This morning we will head to the city’s most iconic landmark—Tsarevets Fortress. This medieval stronghold, once home to Bulgarian tsars, features remnants of over 400 houses, 18 churches, the royal palace, and even an infamous execution rock. As we explore the fortress and walk along its ancient Roman roads, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Bulgaria’s royal past and the dramatic views of the surrounding landscape.

We will check out from the hotel and have lunch before we head for our next adventure - the Bulgarian Black Sea coast! We will drive to the beautiful and buzzing city of Varna. The drive will take 2,5 hours with short restroom breaks along the way. We will stop for a visit at the only desert in Europe - The Stone desert of Varna!

Once we reach Varna, we will check in at our hotel, located in the heart of the city center and go to have dinner together. After dinner, we will have free time to explore the full of life, city center of the second largest city in the country.

After breakfast, we will head to Varna central beach, located 2 minutes away from our hotel - soaking up the sun and enjoying the golden sand and warm water. We will have lunch there and spend most of the day at the beach, swimming, sunbathing and exploring the cafes and the beach bars. In the afternoon everyone can go back to the hotel at their own convenience to rest and prepare for dinner. Exploring the Sea Garden and its beautiful flower garden, cozy cafes and gelato points on the way back to the hotel is a must do experience. After the rest from the beach we will head for another tasty dinner together.

This morning, after breakfast we will visit Aladzha monastery - the most famous medieval cave monastery at the Black Sea coast. After the monastery and at just one hour driving we will visit Kaliakra cape - a natural and architectural reserve which cuts almost a mile and a half into the sea, closing enormous bay - the only place where if you’re lucky, you can see the Black Sea dolphins. After our visit to the cape, we will go to one of the most beautiful wild beaches - Bolata for more sunbathing and swimming. Then we will drive back to our hotel and go out for dinner.

As your journey comes to a close today, you return home with not only new knowledge but also unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Your time abroad has been transformative, and we hope you carry these experiences with you as you continue to grow both personally and professionally. Stay connected with Therapy Abroad, and we’d love to hear your thoughts—please consider leaving us an online review to share your story. Safe travels, and we look forward to hearing about your next adventure!