Arriving in Romania seemed to mark a new phase of our trip. I guess it was starting to feel like the end, as after Romania we would only have the Balkan countries left before flying to Norway and unpacking our backpacks.
Entering Romania also marked something exciting: my 70th country! I’m not entirely sure how that happened, but it felt good!
When Dan and I arrived in Cluj-Napoca, our Couchsurfing host Radu took us out to dinner with a bunch of his friends.
Their first question for us: “Why did you want to come here?”
Followed by: “Weren’t you scared to come Romania?”
And: “Have you been robbed yet? Are you sure? Where’s your wallet?”
It turned out Dan and I both still had our wallets, phew.
In fact, in a mind-boggling contradiction to the popular stereotype, we managed to hold onto our wallets during our entire two weeks in Romania.
Don’t breathe sighs of relief too quickly, though. There’s still a lot to fear from Romania.
To help fellow travelers out, I’ve come up with a list of the nine most important things to look out for should you be so intrepid as to consider a trip Romania yourself.
Because, let’s be real, who doesn’t prefer blog posts in the form of a list?
1. It’s like being thrown around a bizarre time warp.
I had heard that visiting Romania would be like traveling back in time, where I could expect to see plenty of quaint villages sprinkled with haystacks and horses pulling carts along dirt roads.
Sure enough, look what I found!
Breb, Maramureș
Piatra Craiului
But a few days after blissfully traipsing through pre-Industrial villages, I found myself smack dab in the middle of Romania circa 1993 2015. At a Suie Paparude concert in Cluj-Napoca, to be exact.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-n-RgLefrJw
And while zooming through the Transylvanian countryside, I didn’t see many dirt roads. In fact, the roads I did see were quite impressive compared to, say, the often one-lane national “highways” in Norway. Futuristic much?
2. Vampires are real, and they’re in Romania.
I try to be a savvy traveler, and sometimes that means taking cues from pop culture.
If living in the age of True Blood, Twilight and The Vampire Diaries has taught me anything, it’s that vampires are real.
It’s also taught me how to spot a vampire, so I wasn’t fooled by all the beautiful and incredibly charming people I met in Romania.
Plus, hello, this is the birthplace of Dracula, aka Vlad Dracul, aka Vlad the Impaler, aka Mr. Creepy Pants.
Doesn’t his hometown look scary?
Downtown Sighișoara – we stayed at this lovely pension
3. Palinka.
I shudder just at the thought…
4. If you hitchhike, you’re up for some stiff competition.
On the plus side, hitchhiking is totally normal in Romania, so no one is going to think you’re a serial killer. On the downside, lots of locals are hitchhiking too, so you’ll have to compete for rides!
We usually use Hitchwiki to find the best spots to catch rides, but in Romania that tended to lead us straight to crowds of other hitchhikers. A few times we had to give up, which was bad news considering public transport in Romania can be surprisingly expensive.
Other times, however, hitchhiking in Romania was a breeze, and we found rides with some of the nicest people. My favorite was the father road-tripping with his 10-year-old daughter, which gave me a huge burst of nostalgia for bologna and mustard sandwich fueled father-daughter road trips from Massachusetts down to visit family in Kentucky. Oh to be ten again!
5. You’re going to have flashbacks to your high school Latin/French/Spanish classes.
As Romanian is a Romance language, you’ll have to forget the Russian that’s been helping you through the rest of Eastern Europe and brush up on your Latin roots.
That’s right, like you’re back in HIGH SCHOOL.
6. The country will soon be empty.
Apparently you shouldn’t bother going to Romania, because soon the country will be abandoned anyway. Because, you know, now that EU work restrictions have been lifted for Romanians, Britain is being flooded by migrants looking to live off UK benefits or steal jobs from locals.
Oh wait, you guys, I might have muddled my facts.
It turns out the flood of migrants never came (those who wanted to work in Britain were already there, and perhaps the rest felt a tad unwelcome?) and when British news reporters waited for the first flights from Bucharest to arrive in London after the lifting of the ban, they were only able to greet a couple of Romanians on holiday.
Whoops.
7. The towns look like they were ripped from storybooks.
If Romania’s picture-perfect towns and cities aren’t creepy I don’t know what is.
Downtown Sighișoara
Downtown Sibiu – we stayed at this charming hotel
8. The mountains will seduce you.
Romania is full of gorgeous mountain peaks just begging to be climbed.
But beware. Read this if you want to know why.
Piatra Craiului National Park – we stayed at an amazing guesthouse in Zarnesti
9. In fact, the whole country will seduce you.
You’ll probably just never leave.
Eek!
Downtown Sibiu
Have you been to Romania? Or met a vampire?
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Rebekah says
Oh my goodness. I just need to go back to Romania. I forgot how stupidly pretty the place is. I was ridiculous when I lived in Sighisoara, I just walked around the town pretending I was in a fairytale all the time. And ate Zacusca like it was my business. I’m so glad you loved it.
Gail Gray Harris says
I have been coming to Romania since l998. Each time I left a larger portion of my heart here. Now, I stay four or five months each year and, actually have a house at Cisnadiora. Romanians are so lovely!! The land is magnificent! I love it!!! Can you tell?
Silvia says
I think I might be headed down the same road as you – I hope I can visit Romania again soon, and for longer!
Mihai says
Silvia is a romanian name. Are you not romanian?
philip says
im looking to visit romania soon and never been there before. i would like to meet someone who knows the place and can show me around. im a big fan of romania and would really love to live there before i die 🙂 philip niklas
sergiu luca says
I am an Romanian live in Chicago but I do tourism business.
I can offer professional guide for a perfect trip included all excursion.
Email
Usasergiu@yahoo.com
Carolina says
Hello Philip Niklas, Did you ever make it to Romania? and what cities did you visit and stay at that you recommend?
Thank you,
Carolina
Emilia says
If you want to visit Romania you should go to Brasov (there is the street of the rope and the statue of Mrs. Cord), Cluj, Sibiu, Timisoara, maybe Constanța (there is the casino in Constanța, it was famous for its beauty, now it is under renovation and can he says I’m surprised, I thought he would fall into the sea until they start renovating it!). Now I don’t know what cities to say, but I can say that there are a lot to visit, I have been traveling around the country since I was 10 years old and I still have a lot to see. This summer I met the discoverer of the Bear Cave and heard the story of how he discovered it and how much he fought not to be destroyed by the communists.!
Erika Reico says
Hi Carolina,
I live in Swartz Creek, MI, but originally I am from Adoni Romania. Its a small village in Bihor county about 800 Km from Brassov. If you want to visit I would highly recommend Poiana Brassov, which is up in the mountain. I have traveled to Brassov many times since my mom’s sister lives there and they took us to the mountains. It’s absolutely beautiful up there. One thing not to do is to book a hotel on Poiana because you pay triple compare to the ones down in the city. There are buses that goes up there and it’s cheaper to buy the ticket and stay all day and then come back to the city to your hotel. If you decide to go there and need help my cousin can help you, he can direct you to places where you want to go. Also when you are traveling there “Do not show that you are an American” !!! They think we are millionaires here and will charge you an arm and leg and both ears too!!! Let me know if you need any help.
Allen Sidel says
Well I have a great advantage of knowing many Romanians. We partner with the Baptist seminary in Bucharest and have made many friends there. Many of the students (when they are not in school) Will direct you any where you want to go and go right with you, but you must pay their way, buy their food and so forth. It can be very reasonable way to go, I like the train for traveling which is fairly reasonable. Have not miss going there for 25 years till the pandemic set in. I love and miss being there so much. AL Sidel retired in Florida
Diana says
It’s nice that you think so. Apparently most of the world thinks we’re gypsies and thieving, job-stealing criminals.
Ellen Levick says
I always wanted to visit.thanks for your comments which encouraged me. I hope to go to Romania in 2019
Andreea says
Diana, you could have nit been mire wrong. This how we imagine the whole word sees us. Not only I have heard a lot of positive opinions about Romania and Romanians in my travels, but in many other places they didn’t even know where is it exactly. We have absolutely no clue how to advertise ourselves and, more, we don’t even realise how beautiful our country is.
Mick says
I am so sorry that you have to put up with stereo types. That seems to be everywhere. I cannot believe the beauty of your country. As soon as Covid travel restrictions are lifted, I plan to come to Romania. I checked, the United States seems to not be on your approved travel list yet. I just received my second Covid vaccination to prepare for travel.
Silvia says
I’m SO jealous you got to live in Sighisoara!
Corina says
My grandfather was from Sighisoara. I love that city!
vali says
yes Zacusca is very good . i am from Romania.
Justine says
I really want to be a vampire. Does that count? My go-to Halloween costume from the age of five until now has been either a bat or a vampire. Something tells me I might like Romania…Oh and the buildings and mountains look pretty too.
Silvia says
Haha way to be ahead of the trend – I didn’t think much about vampires until the world became obsessed. I think Romania is calling you…
Olivia-Petra Coman says
Nice article! I smiled a lot! 🙂
Proud to be Romanian and to live here!
Silvia says
You’re lucky too!
Joella // Paper Crane Stories says
Wow- congrats on visiting 70 countries Silvia! Your photos are gorgeous. Hopefully I’ll be seduced by Romania one day too hehe! 🙂
Silvia says
I bet you will be 🙂
catalina maria says
nice article!
sandeep says
i wish too but i dont have any friend there.
Geo D says
You do not have to have friends when you go there. Just tell them you are a visitor and you will be their friend. You will make a lots of them for life. That nation is one of the friendliest and warmest in the world..
Urška says
Love the post, the mountains look beautiful!:) To which Balkan countries are you headed now?
Silvia says
Serbia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Albania!
Geo D says
Urska,
I studied Easter European geography and history, and learned that Romania is not a Balcan’s country. The Balcan Mountains end south of Danube and their mountains ape part of the chain of European Alps. Just FYI
Lavi says
I have so many Romanian students at the school I teach at in Madrid. They’re such little sweethearts and they really make me want to explore Romania sometime. Your photos are incredible – now I think I HAVE to go!
Silvia says
Aww I bet they’re the sweetest – the grown ups are real charmers!
William says
You should go and visit Romania. There are beautiful places you need to see.
jennifer says
Happy 70th country! And what a country! I saw the first photo of this post on Instagram and had to clean the drool off my phone. Now I learned that Sighișoara exists, and now my list of WANT TO GO NOW is even longer. Sigh.
Silvia says
Ahhh I want to go back to Sighisoara!!
becky hutner says
I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU’VE BEEN TO 70 COUNTRIES!! That’s 50 more countries than me. MAN I’ve got catching up to do…
Silvia says
When Dan and I had to trek up a mountain with our backpacks after hitchhike failing in Ukraine he tried to distract me from the pain by making me list every country I’d been to. I couldn’t believe I was at 68! Seriously, I need to become a real person and stop running around like a crazy one, ha.
f.d. walker says
Wow, congratulations on 70 countries! I thought I was doing alright at half that number 🙂 Nice photos, Romania’s always sounded interesting to me and I was planning on stopping there this summer. I’d never heard of Hitchwiki before this article, but that is definitely something I’ll have to check out.Thanks for the info!
Silvia says
Hitchwiki has been such a lifesaver! You definitely need to check it out 🙂
Blecyn says
Will love to visit with you.
Julie says
I literally just booked a trip to Romania this summer. I’ll have a car for about a week and hope to do a little driving around (and maybe dip into bulgaria). So few people go to Romania on a regular basis that I’ve been having trouble finding good resources. Thanks for this!
Silvia says
It’s going to be amazing having a car in Romania! We passed so many beautiful places but since we were hitchhiking I couldn’t exactly ask the driver to pull over so I could spend ages taking the perfect blog-worthy photo, ha. I’ll be excited to see how your trip goes!
Rachel says
Thank you so much Silvia, I’ll scratch Romania off my list, no point wasting time dreaming of such a terrifying place 😉
Congratulations on 70 countries, my god, that’s a huge number! I’m still down in the 30s and that’s with over 3 years of (added up) longterm travel!
Silvia says
You’re welcome, I know your time is precious! As for all the countries, I visited a lot of them on European road trips as a kid so it barely counts (except IT DOES), ha.
Yasmine says
Wow, I hadn’t really considered Romania before, but it looks incredible!
Silvia says
It’s definitely worth a trip!
Paul says
I have been to Romania about 5 times and this next time I am going to go there from the uk on my Harley
Galavanting Gran says
I loved my time in Romania as a solo older traveller. So glad I went. https://bmpermie.wordpress.com/2013/07/08/brasov/
Silvia says
Glad to hear it!
Victoria@ The British Berliner says
Love the post. I haven’t yet been to Romania but I sure do want to. Have I met a vampire? Well, that would be telling!
p.s. I’m a British person and the roar about Romanian migrants all rushing over to Britain is frankly, quite embarrasing. It’s a little like the panic over Polish people taking over German jobs (they have a love/hate relationship). The fact is, as you have already said, the people who wanted to leave already left. Before the formalities!
Silvia says
It is really crazy how up in arms people got over the idea of Romanians coming to take everyone’s jobs – sometimes Europe just needs to chill out, haha.
Kiara says
Ciao Silvia!
Just saw this post on twitter and had to comment…such a brilliant writing! Unfortunately I just visit Bucharest (twice and loved it), but I knew I have to visit more of the country and now your pictures make me want to go even more!!!
Camille says
Omg terrifying! I am surprised that my sister went there and came back alive! 😉 More seriously, good way to debunk stereotypes about the country. It looks so pretty and colourful!
Silvia says
Some of the stereotypes around Romania are so absurd!
Caitlin says
Silvia, I found your blog through Unlocking Kiki. I absolutely loved all your Romanian posts. I’m heading there next month for the first time! It’s always good to know some tips and tricks when traveling to a new country.
Silvia says
You’re going to have such an amazing time in Romania!
Nikita says
Love this! Romania is very high on my list of countries to visit, and you’re making it worse!Besides the mention of palinka… I had more than my share in Hungary, and it remains one of my greatest fears.
Cmanic says
I like reason #2. 🙂 Dracula’s hometown actually looks pretty colorful instead of dark and scary.
Silvia says
Right? Totally unexpected!
tania says
is not true i am frome Roumania and is not scary and vampires do not esixt and i now becaose i went to the castle
Carla says
Hi Silvia! Wonderful perspective one some of the most beautiful Romanian attractions. I’m actually surprised most foreigners who visit Romania don’t pack some garlick in their luggage. You know, for the vampires. 😉 All jokes aside, our country is a very interesting mixture of small villages and modern cities.
Silvia says
Haha right? No but it’s so true, Romania has so much more to offer than the typical stereotypes would suggest.
Pamela Perkins says
Romania is like going back in time. We had a fabulous trip in September 2015. My take aways were much different than yours: Read my recent travel tale so you will see why.
http://pamsmississippiride.blogspot.com/2015/09/touched-by-romania.html
Camelia says
Hey, I couldn’t help thanking you for the way you described our country 😉 I am romanian and I’m proud to see other people notice what a beautiful country we have and actually seeing the good not just the bad. Than you again and we welcome you and everyone else, curious about us, to come visit us. We will always have a glass of palinka and some exciting traditional food for you if you knock at our door, especially here in Transylvania. Greetings from Alba Iulia.
Silvia says
Thank you for your sweet comment! I definitely want to visit Romania again – many times!
Eddie says
My best friend is Romanian and she is so beautiful and smart. Bucharest is where she is from and Brasov is where I want to visit with her. A medieval event or holiday. I want to eat samarle and mamaliga. Te iubesc Romania !!!
Silvia says
Oh you definitely need to visit with your friend!
Brooke says
I went to Romania a few months ago on a solo trip. So many people I told about my trip were convinced I was crazy for going there and that I was going to get killed or something. I absolutely LOVED it! I rented a car and got to see so many incredible places! I’m now dying to go back again!
Nicoara Ioan says
God bless you. We welcome you back…
teri vanderberg says
I am seeing theres a famous blues festival in Brezol-Valcea..is that close to seeing these adorable towns and countryside? I am thinking of going solo ..safety ect?
Adrian7 says
Outstanding country,
I love country with deep traditions
Andrei says
Thank you, Silvia. You put a smile on my face. Charming romanian vamipre here! 😀
Silvia says
Haha amazing
Costy says
Thank you Silvia for showing our country to the world…
I am a romanian and I live here. I had the chance to see many countries in my 40 years of life but I always came back because I love it.
Don’t be afraid to come here, it’s a wonderful peacefull country.
I am more than happy to answer to all the questions you might have about visiting my country!
This is my email – mangafaua_201210@yahoo.com
Anne says
Great post! Your title made me read and smile 🙂
I heard that Romania is becoming expensive now though. Well, not really expensive per se, but not as cheap as it used to be. I guess we better hurry up and visit.
Silvia says
I think it’s still incredibly affordable, but better get over there soon! haha
Marius says
It will take you more than that just to have a glimpse what Romania is in fact… I’ve been travelling around the country (my country to be exact) for more than 10 years now and it’s still more to be discovered, so many places that I’ve never been and read about them, but… one day…. Anyway, remember that the real gems in Romania are hidden deeply within the mountains or rolling hills… sometimes every couple of tens of kilometers or so.
Long story short: be afraid of Mestecanis Pass, terrified of Nera Keys (Beusnita) and horrified by the Danube Delta – just to name a very few.
Cheers!
Silvia says
Oooh thanks for the tips – excited to explore more!
Robert says
Silvia, your article is great and very useful for those who want to visit Romania. I am a Romanian guy and rarely I see positive articles about my country. I can suggest for your readers some wonderfull places to visit such as: Salina Turda (Salt Mines) of Turda, Danube Delta, Corvin Castle, Peleș Castle, Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), Palace of the Parliament (the second biggest administrative building of the world), Caraiman Peak, Brukenthal National Museum or the Monasteries of Bucovina. Your followers should only Google these places and they will fall in love with them ;). I wish you all the best.
paddy says
Romania is totally awesome! The negative publicity in the English press is so undeserved and it caused so much damage to this wonderful place. I am actually considering moving to Romania. For good. I would choose Maramoures. Also, Transylvania comes second on my list.
laverne says
got interested in you country, i have visitors to my Blog coming from Romania. Amazing country!
Visit my blog, visit philippines! 🙂
http://explorerlifetrips.blogspot.com/
alireza says
im going to visit bucharest in summer and its my first trip to Europe. i did not have any idea what is expecting me. but now after reading your blog i feel much more relax and not nervous any more, any way i only have one week in romania, any suggestions?
Silvia says
Transylvania was my favorite place in Romania, but really all of the country is very lovely!
Nicoara Ioan says
We live in Transylvania, thank you for your appreciation
Cortes says
My name is Cortes and i want to inform you all that there are fake vampire out there. if you want to become a real vampire you can contact Wallace Graham, he is the one who turn me into a vampire and you can contact me for more info michaelcortes846@gmail.com or contact Wallace Graham the vampire lord wallec_graham@outlook.com
Maureen says
I am so lucky to have a Romanian daughter in law. I have been to Romania 3 times and hope to return You can find big Cities but most of all the.beauty of the country is breathtaking Step back in time in the country villages So much to see
Nicoara Ioan says
God bless your family
Ralph says
Romania is a very beautiful country!
Corina says
You forgot to mention the roads! Be afraid of these tight, up-to-the-sky roads that will take your breath away(like Transfagarasan or Transalpina).
Titus Coprean says
Thanks for presentig România to others in such a beautifull light.
Don’t forget on your next trip to stay in Brasov as well. Lots to do in and arround the city.
If I can suggest Hostel Mara for ITS wonderful and super accomodating owner Angi.
Silvia says
Thanks for the tip!
Victor says
6. The country will soon be empty.” Britain is being flooded by migrants looking to live off UK benefits or steal jobs from locals.”
Romania is the victim here because all the good man (in particular the skilled workers) are drawn in to the rich countries because all the industry here was put down by the G6 countries and they are buying all of our resources…
This is politics … so … cut the crap…
Think Global .. not like an aunt …
Sandra says
Love this post! My mother was bornand raised in Romania and moved to america at 19 as a newlywed to my American father. We Visit frequently to see our Romanian side of our family and for the weddings that seem to happen every other summer! I’m so happy Romania gave you a chance to smile and I hope you see its charm again 🙂
Iulian says
Thank you for this nice article promoting our country!
Henry Ang says
Thanks for the beautiful pictures. Supposed I have 6 nights 7 days in Romania, do you think is advisable to stay in Bucharest 2 nights; Brasov 2 nights, Sighisoara 2 nights? Or should i consider Cluj Napoca?
Also, what’t the best way to Travel from Romania to Belgrade on the 7th day.
Thank you.
ala pe care il sugi de pula says
ma sugi de pula
Adela says
”Apparently you shouldn’t bother going to Romania, because soon the country will be abandoned anyway. Because, you know, now that EU work restrictions have been lifted for Romanians, Britain is being flooded by migrants looking to live off UK benefits or steal jobs from locals.”
Fuck Off! Those are Romanian gypsies and believe me we are not proud of them. Romanians are working in UK and all over the world on lower wages than native ones, doing the job you refuse to do it, not steeling it. Are you sure all Romanians are on benefits? That’s ironic, cause I always thought you are the ones that receive and apply for benefits. Can a English person that work part time afford to buy a house, pay a rent , eat, etc? Ohhh, aye, you can!, cause more than 60% of you live in council houses cause you are to fucking lazy to work. You prefer part time jobs and benefits rather than working full time . It is more convenient no?
I’m proud to be Romanian, but I’m more proud to be living in Scotland .
Silvia says
Hmm I think you missed the sarcasm in the comment you quoted.
CVlad says
You will have to excuse my retarded fellow country that wrote a hateful comment just above. We do have rejects that cannot think about what they read and we also have normal people. You are not going to be robbed on the streets, in taxis or whatever. In my honest opinion, it’s safer than in many other countries that have already received tens of thousands of refugees and cannot control them. It’s even safer than other federal country that has a weaponry related ammendment. We are used with harsh living conditions and thus we can control our bad examples.
That doesnt mean you won’t be tricked. Yes you will if you think that all are corect. You have to pay attention and wake up to reality for a little bit. In fact, you will find that poor and old people will actually give you apples from their gardens, grapes, tomatoes, cucumbers and so on, without charging you anything but your company. You will need a guide and please do some research before picking one. If you want to see and understand more, visit the countryside as well, not just POI.
If you want to visit one of the last country that has wild landscapes and active wildlife in it’s forests, look no further for you’ve found your next destination. Don’t go hunting because you can easily imagine what would be if we start hunting the hunters. (WE DO sometimes because a deer shouldn’t be shot with a sniper rifle – it’s not fair for it’s a defenseless living being – but a hunter can be hunted with the same weapon he has – this is a FAIR FIGHT!)
BTW! Don’t take taxis from airports unless you order one via phone or website. They will charge you 782732 times more for a simple ride. Be positive and be with the nature as it will charge you enough until next time because, Yes, you will come again.
R.S. says
Thanks for your kind words Silvia I am a Romanian from Sibiu living in Canada for 20 yrs and I cringed at the title of your blog but it was good news! I visit RO regularly and may one day retire back in RO Looking fwd to read your blogs
Cheers! R.S.
Suzanne says
I spent 6 weeks in Romania in 2000. It was wonderful traveling the country by car with a driver who was our tour guide and translator. In 2000 in the Fall while there during and after final harvest food began to get scarce in the restaurants so sometimes we didn’t have choices but what they offered was good. We stayed at a typical farm in Little Sibiu, a village with farm homes, a church and cemetery, one water well for all of the homes/farms and one small “convenience store” open a few hours per day. We went to every part of Romania except the Danube Delta. I have always said to my friends get there be before it is pasteurized and Americanized!! I didn’t want to see any McDonalds, Pizza Hut etc. Hire a knowledgeable driver who knows the history of country, knows the towns to visit and stay in and have a wonderful time. See the country before it catches up with the rest of the world and loses its charm. This country for the most part skipped the age of landline telephones and went straight to cell phones! As we traveled we saw few cars on road but we saw many wooden farm wagons pulled by a horse or a ox. Fields were worked by people not machines. We went to see the painted monasteries in Northeast Romania, we arrived in Timisoara on day the whole town was celebrating its 700th anniversary. Every place mentioned in other posts we went to and thoroughly enjoyed.
Romania lover says
Romania is the most dangerous country in the world !!
first you will become addicted to Romanian food…
then you will fall in love for the country
and the huge kindness of the people
my dream is to speak Romanian fluently 🙂
and live in this great country for some time
Oddfellow says
“first you will become addicted to Romanian food…
then you will fall in love for the country
and the huge kindness of the people”
You forgot mentioning Romanian folk dancing! They are probably the most entrancing I know (maybe together with the Greek).
sorin says
There are many amazing places in Romania, but they are not promoted, and are unknown to many romaniens too.
I recently explored some places in Romania, where time is almost two times slower, the area is totally virgin, and the paranormal phenomena are normal there almost every hour something happens.
in the area we discovered some incredible megalithic structures that, after some research, would not be built by humans.
Vladu says
Yeah, wow! Ye wow wow! Fascinating country.
Please, excuse me. First of all, I read your article and I`ve noticed that you`ve mainly visited Transilvania, which might be the most developed region of Romania, a place wit a lighter touch of Balcanism/Eastern mentality, where at least city centres look somewhat European. The centre of Sighisoara looks fairly fine, too, but once you get out of its centre (it goes for all such cities), old people may be witty, but the area looks pretty shitty (Russia, Pakistan, India, Brazil, Ecuador, China, most of Africa, Russia would be a better match).
Romania may be a country with beautiful landscapes, with some universities which are pretty competitive in Eastern Europe and some nice and open-minded people (not very many, though, but, at least for diversity`s sake, we should`n/mustn`t be all identical). But this does not make it an European country. It is a corrupt, violent, significantly homophobic country whose greatness lies mostly in gross negligence, aggression and shifting responsibility. Awfully many people take bribery, so you can rest assured that their salaries do not reflect their incomes or purchasing power (well, we generally exclude IT-ists, some workers, tutors, freelancers and most office jobs at private companies as these people either do not want/need bribery, or they do not have the chance to get some). Hence, getting stolen/robbed in Romania might not be as frequent today as it was some years ago. I would suggest something else: instead of being afraid of thieves, you could try to criticize someone here for breaking a traffic rule, smoking on a children`s playground or eating seeds there and throwing the shells on the ground, standing in the doorway of a bus/tram/trolleybus when you want to get off and there are only a few people in that bus/tram/trolleybus). I`ve done this dozens of times and I guess it is a very, very good chance to see how nice and open-minded Romanians (generally) really are. In the best cases, they will deny doing something bad/illegal and tell you to mind your own business, but this happens very rarely. Most often, it will get to verbal conflicts, swearing and even physical conflict, no matter how polite you were. I came close to a physical conflict once and, as I didn`t want to be both violent and coward, as I actually am, I called the police. You should be fascinated if somebody in Romania apologizes for disturbing you in some way and cuts it out. It happens in about 5% of all cases and you could bet that person is either better educated or spent some longer time in some country like your native country. If you are in for some adventure, please, try what I mentioned above at least 1-2 times. Again, it is not about taking on somebody for their religion/sexual orientation/clothes/shaven chest or legs (men)/eating pork other personal traits which would be a sign of retardation, but on criticizing somebody for breaking the law or a rule. You may also find out other interesting things: Romanians are fast to starting a fight, but they are pretty sensible to cold (although there are 6 up to 7 months of rather cold weather in Romania every year): they often shout at you if you open a window or door in winter to get some fresh air in or smoke cigarettes in elevators of on the stairs of underground passages in winter. But, enough with Romania bashing. I am quite tired. I also think I have “sictirit” many people, I am quite good at that. Muhuhu!!
Jacqueline says
Such a long time since you originally posted, but still, I thank you! Fantastic pics…and great headline for the post! Makes Romania an aspirational destination for me for sure.
Somehow I feel like I should apologize for some of the idiotic comments….maybe because I feel like we’re all ‘sitting’ in the same audience? Alas, there must be a bottom percentile, without which the best and brightest amongst us would go unappreciated. 😉
May you continue to enjoy your youth, our wonderful world, and your special place in it.
Mohamed says
România îs a beautifull country. Everyone must visit!!!
sai says
i am so going there! once my exams get over though!
Indian says
I have been to Romania about 20 times and actually going back next week. I have walked around Bucharest, Cluj and Zalau at nights without being mugged or stabbed. If you as an American say that Romania is dangerous, you need a reality check and look at the American cities.
My most dramatic experience would have been a drunk and perhaps homeless guy screamed and ran after me. I was expecting my first mugging but he was waving my wallet that i had dropped at a dark brown pub. He said plenty money, yes I had about 1200 lei inside.
I tried to give him 200 as a reward but he would have nothing of that and just said welcome to Romania. Finally he took it.
If you are going to Oslo, take a trip at night in Grønnland in Oslo center and find out yourself. Bucharest is a safer city. My car had been parked on the streets for 2 weeks and I got to drive home. I would not park my car in Oslo.
I find Romanians a very friendly and hard working people and I always look forward to visiting time and again
Indian2003 says
I have been to Romania about 20 times and actually going back next week. I have walked around Bucharest, Cluj and Zalau at nights without being mugged or stabbed. If you as an American say that Romania is dangerous, you need a reality check and look at the American cities.
My most dramatic experience would have been a drunk and perhaps homeless guy screamed and ran after me. I was expecting my first mugging but he was waving my wallet that i had dropped at a dark brown pub. He said plenty money, yes I had about 1200 lei inside.
I tried to give him 200 as a reward but he would have nothing of that and just said welcome to Romania. Finally he took it.
If you are going to Oslo, take a trip at night in Grønnland in Oslo center and find out yourself. Bucharest is a safer city. My car had been parked on the streets for 2 weeks and I got to drive home. I would not park my car in Oslo.
I find Romanians a very friendly and hard working people and I always look forward to visiting time and again
Conn Roux says
I have traveled to Romania twice. The castles, medieval cities and mysterious mountains will steal your heart and keep it forever. Visiting Romania is like stepping back in time. Transylvania is absolutely breathtaking! The people are very accommodating and friendly. Will go back any time.
Conn Roux
Kanika Bakshi says
There are no such things like “afraid”. I have been to Romania only a few times. I left Romania, Romania never left me. This country leaves an impression never to forget.thanks for the article.nice information
Kanika Bakshi says
I would say that Romania is good to your list! One of the most beautiful European capitals and it’s especially popular during the Christmas holidays. A must-go!thansk for the information but there’s no such thing as afraid or like that.
Jimin says
I think yu are exagerating here, Romania is an incredible place, full of fairy tails, I don’t know what is so “Eek” about my country but please, stop making Romania look like a pig-countryside world
Jami says
My wife and me are planning a trip to Romania and Bulgaria for our 25th anniversary. This will be a great planning resource. Thanks a bunch. I had never considered hitchhiking to get around.
Alin Todea says
Best time to visit Romania is during the summer and the Halloween. The 7 day Dracula tour Halloween in Transylvania that includes 3 Halloween parties (Sighisoara, Bran and Bistrita) was placed in a Top 10 Must Do Adventure by Fodor travel guide.
Diana says
I am from Romania, “Vlad Dracul” was not a vampire..
He had a pact with the devil.
In the secret book of alien races responsible for the myth of vampires is HAV-HANNUAE-KONDRAS
Information from the book:
“They come from galaxy Sextans Dwarf SPH.
First visited Earth in 934 AD in the area that we known as România.
They often abduct and kill humans…they also drain and drink the blood of Humans as well as the blood of animals.
THEY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MYTH OF VAMPIRES
Several Humans governments know and accept their actions
The Human bodies that they “use” are never returned
Last sighting: Scotland, in 1996″
For more information about Romania, contact me: ioneladiana85@gmail.com
Diana says
Listen, it’s complete and utter garbage to know that you are graced with my name and making a flipping mockery of my beautiful country. However, I’ve noticed how idiotic you are especially since you said that you learned from Vampire Diaries and Twilight. Legit, what are you talking about? Smh. You are an idiota, Prost.
Sincerely, Mad Romanian (Diana)
Silvia says
It’s satire.
Alin says
I believe you did not read the article correctly. Beside you seems a very rude person-please Silvia delete this comment -this person makes a bad image for Romanians
Graham says
I’m a bit late to this article, but trust me as a native English speaker this is absolutley pro Romania. All good. It’s made me want to visit.
Mark says
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George says
Thank you for such an informative post. I’m heading soon to Romania, starting from Bucharest, and I definitely got some ideas about my itinerary. Safe travels 🙂
debra lively says
I will be traveling to Romania and would like recommendations for May 16th – 20th to experience the mountains and hiking. I will be in Sibiu on the 16th. It looks like there is a long travel to the Carpathians.
Cheryl B. Montoya says
Do you not know that Dracula (Prince Vlad Tepes) is a heroic, patriotic, historical figure in Romania, and most recently, in Texas — That’s right, TEXAS! Since I was 12-13 yrs. old, I’ve done research and gathered enough information to have been successful in defending his case. If one insists on slandering and defaming the real Dracula, one should be afraid of coming to Texas, especially Austin, San Antonio, and Comanche (where I grew up). — Cheryl B. Montoya, San Antonio — Remember the Alamo! Don’t Mess With Texas!
Keisue says
This is about my 52nd trip to Transylvania. I love it. I have found the people, including Roma, to be welcoming as well as life long friends. I am simply loving this hidden treasure.
Jason says
People, this is SATIRE. It’s meant to be sarcastic. Doesn’t anybody know how to joke and laugh anymore?
Brian Hicks says
Nice. Clever. And despite it all, I still want to go…
Mark says
Are you tired of being human, having talented brain turning to a vampire in a good posture in ten minutes, Do you want to have power and influence over others, To be charming and desirable, To have wealth, health, without delaying in a good human posture and becoming an immortal? If yes, these your chance. It’s a world of vampire where life get easier,We have made so many persons vampires and have turned them rich, You will assured long life and prosperity, You shall be made to be very sensitive to mental alertness, Stronger and also very fast, You will not be restricted to walking at night only even at the very middle of broad day light you will be made to walk, This is an opportunity to have the human vampire virus to perform in a good posture. If you are interested contact us on Vampirelord7878@gmail. com
Jerome Samson says
Vampires is not at all like in the movies or books. Sure, I understand. You are young you have the whole world open to you. You can be anything that you choose if you apply yourself and try hard to work toward that goal. But being a Vampire is not what it seems like. It’s a life full of good, and amazing things. We are as human as you are.. It’s not what you are that counts, But how you choose to be. Do you want a life full of interesting things? Do you want to have power and influence over others? To be charming and desirable? To have wealth, health, and longevity? contact the Vampires Lord on his Email: Richvampirekindom@gmail. com
jik says
Nice pics and stories, congrats!
Tori says
Thank you for such a wonderful review, very beautiful photos. I was in Romania a few years ago. But I did not see all the colors of this country. Good article.
Laura says
1. WE DON’T STEAL JOBS
2. NO ONE STEALS WALLETS
3. IT IS NOT DANGEROUS
4. THE TOWNS ARE NOT SCARY
Krzysztof says
Hello. Superb blog 🙂 Nice photos. We visited Transylvania last summer. We mainly focused on the beautiful mountains and the Transfagaras route and Transalpin. A terrible bear rash this year 🙂 We made a short video of these places. If you feel like it, I invite you to watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWLU-QjLEtU
pat says
well … romania is not a nice country why ? search STRAY DOGS OF ROMANIA… then let’s talk about the landscapes ok ? i visited once and it was enough of shit violance and animal abuse ….for one person !
it is a nightmare … they torture stray dogs ….! this is a mass genocide… if you are ok with that i mean in case if you are a REAL RETARD / sadist…then you will like this place .. plus they are rude and look agressive ..yes i speak bad english i am sorry .
Florin says
The vampires are in Bucharest in the Parliament Palace :).
Radu says
I’m happy you discovered Romania as it is… magnificent! There are a lot of experiences you can’t find anywhere else. They have mountais, delta, sea, hills and traditions like no other country!
Philip says
My travel hack: if you see a board with announcement at the entrance of the restaurant saying “We want to hire a chef!”avoid that restaurant. I went to a pizzeria with this announcement on the door and it was the worst pizza I have ever eaten. I wander who cooked it 🙂
Stefania Marian says
Hahaha this is very funny, and some of them really true. Bucharest is a great place for visiting
John says
Palinka? You should also have tried Horinca. 🙂
Sylwia says
I loved this article! I recently moved to Romania (I am Polish, married to a Romanian), we live in Bucharest now. While I am not a fan of the capital city (too big, too crowded, I am more of a town girl) I love to discover this land! The medieval towns, the mountains, the sea… I’m gonna venture through your blog further 🙂
Peter Fay says
I exchanged comments on YouTube about a piece of modern music that I liked. It was played and sung by a Romanian group. One reply was from a Romanian woman. Due to our similar attitudes, she invited me to visit Bucuresti and we could meet.
I have visited Bucuresti and Romania many times. I have never felt so welcome in any other country. Nearly everyone is polite, friendly and helpful.
Most people at least understand the English language and many speak it perfectly! But there are several reliable phrase book that can be a good help.
I will visit again when the COVID virus has been controlled.
gwen says
FYI, Romanians do not steal jobs from locals. They are working jobs that locals do not want to do. Think before you write next time. So sad to this pin on the search for “Romania” on Pinterest.
Silvia says
I think you misunderstood this post – of course Romanians don’t steal jobs from anyone.
Sameer says
Hey Silvia
You are one lucky gal to visit so many countries and Romania being one. I had plans to visit east Europe this year, but corona played a BIG SPOILSPORT. East Europe has its own charm and it beckons me big time. Lot of people world over want to visit west Europe and the popular destinations, but I would love to visit East Europe, the Balkans first. I have been to Ireland and Germany but that was for work. A lot of Indian movies are shot in Romania all over and I am eager to visit. Hopefully soon.
Eli says
I was hoping to travel Romania springtime 2020 but due to the pandemic all is on hold. I’ll get there though I’m sure… but scarily I’ll be two years older when borders reopen and the evil is checked. Two years is fearsome: at my age that advancement is significant. Enjoyed reading your blog Silvie. I hope everyone is safe and keeping well.
Eli says
Which books did you purchase? I too am wanting to learn basic Romanian for I was hoping to travel Romania springtime 2020 but like you, due to the pandemic all is on hold. I’ll get there though I’m sure… but scarily I’ll be two years older when our borders “down under” reopen and international travel permitted (hopefully the evil fully-checked).Two years is fearsome: at my age that advancement is significant. Enjoyed reading Silvia’s blog. Those mountains are awesome. Unfortunately I won’t be able to clamber up them as I could have decades ago! But I’ll enjoy Transylvania (hopefully see some bears in the wild), the Danube Delta, walk on the edge of the Black Sea (maybe have a wee dip in it too!), explore old Tomis to where Ovid was relegated, and Bucharest where I hope to browse in that wonderful bookshop in the Old Town. I hope everyone is safe and keeping well.
Yorick says
#9 is VERY real. I came here for “just one year”. I’m going on my 4th consecutive year now.
Dylan Alliata says
I am so glad you have the courage to warn the public to stay away from Romania. It is as close to paradise as you can hope to find. And whatever you do, do not marry the Romanians. I made that mistake 25 years ago and I am still living with the mistake and we have a son. I am going to retire to Romania in the next year with my wife and you don’t have to have a million dollars to retire there.
Cristina says
I want to thank you for your humour, and for capturing part of my country so well. Indeed, I would never leave this wonderful and sadly misunderstood place.
Cheers mate, and come back 🙂
Savy says
As a romanian, I feel the need to clarify these reasons:
1 – hat’s part of the charm, but only in rural areas. And it’s dangerous, because locals kinda’ like foreigners and wanna “brag” (share) the local drinks (like 60 degrees alcohol, made at home – moonshine)
2 – that’s a myth. I’ve been hearing this all my life, in 1400s, then in 1800s and even now in this century… a myth, I tell you.
3 – Palinka. – well, that’s just one. Palinka is moonshine, boiled twice. There’s also Horinca, boiled 3 times (that shit can knock a ruski on his ass from the first shot). in my area, there’s Rakia, the mild kind, which is only about 40% strong and you can pack a few glasses before starting to sing.
4 – in other words, water is wet
5 – at most, french, but English is the second spoken language here. There’s also “drunk English” which is Romanian after point 3
6 – if only… but while some romanians go abroad to “work”, a ton of corporations come here and open offices. Google is one of them (and there’s an office right in my town). Amazon has the highest building in the city center and that damn logo can be seen from a plane. Low profile, as they say….
7 – the medieval ones, yes (tourist attractions). Point 3 still applies though
8 – yes, our mountains have no idea about the #metoo movement, they try their luck…
9 – much like our mountains, we don’t have that much woke stuff and “cultural appropriation” going on. People enjoy whatever they wanna enjoy and no one tells them “it’s not appropriate”. We do have a few trans areas, Transfagarasan, Transalpina.. so you can’t say we’re completely oblivious.
Darko says
Hello Silvia, Your article humorously highlights some misconceptions about Romania. While it’s essential to be cautious when traveling, Romania offers a blend of old-world charm and modernity, rich culture, and friendly people. Don’t let stereotypes deter you from exploring this beautiful country.
Best regards,
A Romania Enthusiast – Darko