Accommodation
Editor's Choice: Homestay
To sample the real Romanian lifestyle opt to stay in someone's home. A room costs from Lei20-80 per night, which often includes two meals. Rooms are clean but some do not have private bathrooms for guests. Hosts may not speak English.
Hotels
Visitors are advised to book accommodation in advance through a travel agency, particularly for summertime visits to coastal resorts. Room prices in lower-end hotels are very reasonable compared to Western European prices, whereas 4- and 5-star hotels are comparable in both standards and price. Breakfast normally costs extra. For further information, contact the Romanian Tourist Office (see Top Things To Do) or see online (website: www.rotravel.com). Grading: Hotels are classified from 1 to 5 stars.
Bed & Breakfast
Accommodation of this type (also called 'Pensiune') is plentiful in Romania and in smaller towns or villages may be the only options. Private rooms tend to be cheaper than hotel rooms and will be basic but comfortable. Bed and Breakfast accommodation is classified from 1 to 3 daisies. For further information, contact the Romanian National Tourist Office (see Top Things To Do).
Self-catering
Addresses of private accommodation and self-catering establishments are available from local tourist offices.
Camping/Caravanning
There are around 150 campsites in Romania. Prepaid tourist coupons valid from May to September are available from specialised travel agencies.
Youth Hostels
Most hostels are open in July and August although some are open year-round.
Accommodation Information
Youth Hostel Romania Tel: (264) 586 616.Website: www.hihostels-romania.ro
Business
• GDP: US$57 billion.• Main imports: Machinery and equipment, fuels and minerals, chemicals, agricultural products, textiles and textile products and basic metals.• Main exports: Textiles and footwear, metals and metal products, machinery and equipment, minerals and fuels, chemicals and agricultural products.• Main trade partners: France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Turkey and UK.
Economy
Romania is a major producer of wheat and maize, and grows vegetables, fruit, sugar beet and vegetable oil seeds; wine-making is still widespread and many farms also breed livestock. Communist-era economic policies favoured heavy industry and the agricultural sector has since found it difficult to catch up with European standards. Most land has now been transferred to private ownership. The previously neglected forestry and fishing industries are being developed under long-term programmes. Overall, the contribution of the agricultural sector to GDP has declined from about 33 per cent in 1990 to its present level of 14.8 per cent. Post-communist industry has undergone a similar contraction, and now accounts for 28 per cent of GDP (down from nearly 60 per cent in 1990). Romanian industry produces industrial and transport equipment, metals, furniture, chemical products and manufactured consumer goods, but the most important sector is oil, natural gas and oil-derived products (petrochemicals, paints and varnishes). The mining industry produces coal, bauxite, copper, lead, zinc and iron ore. The Romanian economy was crippled under the Ceaucescu regime, not least by its leader’s obsession with paying off the whole of the country’s national debt (something rarely considered, let alone attempted, by most governments). Since the 1989 revolution, successive governments have concentrated on turning Romania into a market economy. Progress has been difficult, hampered by the economy’s already weak condition and political instability. In the early- and mid-1990s, Romania came close to economic meltdown as the economy contracted by an average of seven per cent annually and inflation often reached 100 per cent. The situation has improved since 2000, when Romania registered positive growth. GDP is now increasing at an annual rate of five per cent; inflation is 22 per cent and official unemployment has fallen to eight per cent (although there is a large informal economy). IMF and World Bank support have been forthcoming under the usual conditions. Romania has also had access to loans from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to which it belongs as a ‘country of operation’. The Romanians’ ultimate objective is membership of the European Union, with whom it conducts over 60 per cent of its trade (Italy and Germany are the largest individual trade partners). The country originally hoped to join along with the 10 other countries that joined in May 2004. Unfortunately, it was unable to meet the accession criteria in time and now hopes to join, along with neighbouring Bulgaria, in 2007.
Business Etiquette
A suit is essential at all business meetings and only on very hot days are shirtsleeves acceptable. English, German and French are used in business circles. Appointments are necessary and punctuality expected. Business cards are widely used. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1530.
Conferences/Conventions
For information on conferences and conventions, contact the Romanian Convention Bureau.
Commercial Information
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of RomaniaBulevardul Octavian Goga 2, Sector 3, 030982 Bucharest, RomaniaTel: (1) 319 0114.Website: www.ccir.roRomanian Convention BureauCalea Victoriei 118, 4th Floor, Suite 407, Sector 1, 70179 Bucharest, RomaniaTel: (21) 314 4100/4102.Website: www.conventionbureau.ro
Climate
Climate
Summer temperatures are moderated on the coast by sea breezes while inland at sea level it is hot. Winters are coldest in the Carpathian Mountains where there is snow from December through to April. Snow also falls throughout most of the country. Winters are mildest on the coast.
Required clothing
Lightweights are worn in summer on the coast and in low inland areas. Warmer clothes are needed in winter and throughout the year in the uplands. Rainwear is recommended throughout the year.
Communications
Telephone
IDD is available. Country code: 40. Public telephones are widely available and can be used for direct international calls. Hotels often impose a high service charge for long-distance calls, but usually do not charge for local calls.
Mobile telephone
Roaming agreements exist with many international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good around Bucharest but variable elsewhere.
Internet
Kappa and PC-Net are two of the largest of the 250-odd ISPs. The former has open-air terminals at Strada Paulescu Nicolae 9, Bucharest, while the latter is at Strada Calderon Jean Louis 1-5, Bucharest. Sweet Internet Cafe, Strada Maria Rosetti 7-9, Bucharest (tel: (21) 212 4111) has 24-hour access, as do a couple others of Bucharest’s many Internet cafes.
Post
Airmail to Western Europe takes one week. Post offices are open daily, including Saturday mornings.
MEDIA
The media scene is Romania is one of the most dynamic in southeastern Europe. The 1991 constitution upholds freedom of expression, but prohibits 'defamation of the country'. The first private radio stations appeared in 1990; there are now more than 100 of them. State-run Radio Romania operates four national networks and regional and local stations. Romania's newspapers thrived after the 1989 revolution, but many subsequently closed because of rising costs.State-owned Romania 1 and the private commercial stations Pro TV and Antena 1 command the lion's share of television viewing. There are also many smaller, private TV stations, some of them part of local networks. The state broadcaster, TVR, operates a second national network, TVR 2, and a pan-European satellite channel. Pay TV channels have a smaller audience. There are hundreds of cable distributors offering access to Romanian, European and other stations and many households in Bucharest have cable TV. Press: English newspapers and publications include Bucharest Business Week, Nine O’Clock (website: www.nineoclock.ro) and Romanian Economic Daily. There are a great number of daily and weekly newspapers published in Romanian, Hungarian and German. Daily papers include Adevarul, Libertatea, Evenimentul Zillei and Romania Libera. TV: TVR operated Romania 1 and TVR 2. Commercial networks include: Antena 1, Pro TV, Prima TV, Acasa TV and Realitatea TV.Radio: Radio Romania is state-owned. Commercial networks include: Europa FM, Kiss FM, Pro FM and Radio 21. The BBC World Service is available on FM in the capital.
Duty Free
The following items may be imported into Romania without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes, 40 cigars or 200g of other tobacco articles; 2l of liquor; 4l of wine or beer; gifts up to a value of Lei2000; 200g of cocoa; 200g of coffee; 20 rolls of camera film and reasonable quantities of perfume, medicines and travel souvenirs.
Prohibited imports
Ammunition, explosives, narcotics, pornographic material, uncanned meats, animal and dairy products.
Prohibited exports
Articles of cultural, historical or artistic value.
Note
Valuable goods, such as jewellery, art, electrical items and foreign currency should be declared on entry. Endorsed customs declarations must be kept, as they must be shown on leaving the country.
Entertainment
Food & Drink
The Romanians excel in full-bodied soups, some of the best being cream of mushroom, chicken, beef, vegetable and bean soup. Sour cream or eggs are also added to soups. Breakfasts almost always include eggs, either soft-boiled, hard-boiled, fried or scrambled. Omelettes, filled with either cheese, ham or mushrooms, are also frequently served. Vegetarians may have difficulties, as most local specialities are meat-based. Although there are inexpensive self-service snack bars, table service is the norm. There are no licensing hours, but the legal age for drinking in a bar is 18.National specialities:• Soups: Ciorba de perisoare (soup with meatballs), ciorba tãrãneascã (vegetable soup with meat and rice balls served with sour cream), giblet soup and a variety of fish soups. • Moldavian parjoale (flat meat patties, highly spiced and served with garnishes).• Mamaliga (a staple of mashed cornmeal).• Nisetru la gratar (grilled Black Sea sturgeon).• Pasca (a sweet cheesecake). National drinks:•
Tuicã (plum brandy) and Tuicã de Bihor (strong brandy, generally known as palinca). • Wines: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay from the Murfatlar vineyards. Grasa and Feteasa from Moldavia’s Cotnari vineyards. • Sparkling wines.•
Glühwein (mulled wine).Tipping: A 5 to 10 per cent service tip is customary in restaurants. Porters, chambermaids and taxi drivers expect tips.
Nightlife
Bucharest has a growing number of discos and nightclubs with entertainment and live dancing. Restaurants at most major hotels double as nightclubs and there are also several Parisian-style cafes. Two casinos operate in the Calea Victoriei. Opera is performed at the Romanian Opera House and the Romanian Athenaeum has two symphony orchestras. Folk entertainment is performed at the Rapsodia Romana Artistic Ensemble Hall and there are a number of theatres.
Shopping
Specialist purchases include embroideries, pottery, porcelain, silverware, carpets, ceramics, crystal, glassware, fabrics, wool jumpers, woodcarvings, metal, leather goods, rugs, glass paintings and silk dresses. Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0900-1800, although this may vary according to season and area.
General Information
Area
238,391 sq km (92,043 sq miles).
Population
22.2 million (UN, 2005).
Population Density
90.9 per sq km.
Capital
Bucharest. Population: 2 million (2005).
Geography
Romania is bordered to the north and east by Moldova and Ukraine, the southeast by the Black Sea, the south by Bulgaria, the southwest by Serbia and Montenegro and in the west by Hungary. The country is divided into four geographical areas. Transylvania (a belt of Alpine massifs and forests) and Moldavia compose the northern half of the country, which is divided down the middle by the north–south strip of the Carpathian Mountains. South of the east–west line of the Carpathians lies the flat Danube plain of Walachia with the capital Bucharest, its border with Bulgaria being defined by the course of the Danube. Romania’s coastline is along the Black Sea, incorporating the port of Constanta and the Danube Delta.
Government
Democratic Republic since 1991. Head of State: President Traian Basescu since December 2004. Head of Government: Prime Minister Calin Tariceanu. Recent history: Traian Basescu won the second round of Romania's Presidential election in mid-December 2004, defeating incumbent Prime Minister Adrian Nastase of the leftist Social Democratic party. Calin Tariceanu became Prime Minister following Parliamentary elections in November 2004. His government is an alliance of Liberals and Democrats and has members from four reformist parties. Both men have said that their main objectives will be to focus on the acceleration of reforms aimed at ensuring EU membership for Romania in 2007 and to fight poverty and corruption.
Language
Romanian is the official language. Some Hungarian and German are spoken in border areas, while mainly French and some English are spoken by those connected with the tourist industry.
Religion
86 per cent Romanian Orthodox, with Greek and Roman Catholic, Reformed/Lutheran, Unitarian, Muslim and Jewish minorities.
Electricity
220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are of the two-pin type.
SOCIAL CONVENTIONS
Handshaking is the most common form of greeting, but it is customary for men to kiss a woman’s hand when being introduced. Mr or Mrs should be used when greeting someone for the first time. Visitors should follow normal European courtesies on social occasions. Dress tends to be rather conservative but casual wear is suitable. Beachwear should not be worn away from the beach or poolside. If visiting a home, a small gift should be given to the host, such as flower or chocolates (to women only), wine or liquor. Flowers should be given as a gift in odd numbers only. Many Romanians are smokers and gifts of Western cigarettes are greatly appreciated. Other well-appreciated gifts include toiletries and Western clothing. Photography: Military installations should not be photographed. Some tourist attractions require visitors to pay a fee of approximately Lei2000 for taking photographs. Smoking: The Romanian Government has recently approved legislation that bans smoking in every public place, but, as in many countries in Eastern Europe smokers have little respect for non-smokers and for smoking laws. Smoking is prohibited in all public places including hospitals, concert halls and theatres. Smoking is also forbidden on planes, on buses and one some trains. Luxury hotels have designated no-smoking floors but very few restaurants have no-smoking sections.
Health
Health
1
Vaccination against typhoid is advised.
Food & drink
Mains water is normally chlorinated, and whilst relatively safe, may cause abdominal upsets; visitors are thus advised to drink bottled water. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.
Other risks
Hepatitis A, hepatitis C and tuberculosis occur and hepatitis B is endemic. Rare West Nile Fever outbreaks have been reported in the southeast. Brucellosis occurs sporadically although risk to the traveller is low. Stray dogs may carry African Typhus disease. Ensure booster vaccinations for tetanus-diphtheria and measles are up-to-date. Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, see the Health appendix.
Note
EU experts have confirmed that the Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) virus has been detected in tests on birds in the Danube Delta. The Romanian authorities have taken measures to prevent an outbreak. The risk to Avian Influenza is believed to be very low, provided you avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.
Health care
Medical facilities in Romania are poor and there is a serious shortage of basic medical supplies and qualified personnel. Nationals of countries who do not have a reciprocal health agreement with Romania are expected to pay immediate cash for health services. Health insurance is strongly advised.
History and Government
History
Ethnic Romanians are descendants of the Dacians, one of the Romanised Thracian tribes that inhabited the Balkan peninsula during the first millennium BC. The region was part of the Roman empire until AD 275 at which point it was occupied by the Goths. Between the sixth and 12th centuries, Romania was successively overrun by the Huns, Bulgars and Slavs. In the 15th century, most of the territory (specifically the provinces of Moldavia and Wallachia) was annexed by the Turkish Ottomans. As the Ottoman empire entered its long period of decline during the early 19th century, Romania came under the Russian sphere of influence. Wallachia and Moldavia (not to be confused with the modern state of Moldova, then known as Bessarabia) formally united as Romania in 1861 under the rule of Prince Alexander Cuza. Romania subsequently backed the Russians in their war against the Turks in 1877. After the end of the war the following year, Romania was finally recognised by the major European powers as an independent state ruled by King Carol I (formerly known as Prince Charles of Hohenzollern, and who had deposed Alexander Cuza in 1866).Romania was at war again in 1913, this time against Bulgaria in the year-long Second Balkan War, and in 1916 joined the allied cause in World War I. The post-war re-organisation of Europe saw Romania gain several territories from the dismembered Habsburg empire. During the 1930s, in common with other European countries, Romania experienced the rapid growth of an indigenous fascist movement, the Iron Guard. It was prevented from taking power by King Carol II, who suspended the constitution and established an absolute monarchy. In 1940, the Germans occupied Romania and forced Carol to abdicate. The country was placed in the hands of General Ion Antonescu who promptly joined the Nazis in their war against the Soviet Union. In 1944, with Soviet forces about to occupy the country, the Antonescu regime was overthrown and replaced by a coalition government of communists, liberals and social democrats, under the titular leadership of Carol II’s son, King Michael. The Communists gradually established their political hegemony within the Government: in 1947 the monarchy was deposed and the Government declared the Romanian People’s Republic. Nicolae Ceausescu assumed the post of First Secretary of the Romanian Communist Party (RCP) in 1965 and held power in the country until the dramatic, bloody and largely unpredicted revolution during Christmas 1989. Despite being a member of the Warsaw Pact and the COMECON trading bloc, Romania was inclined to pursue independent policies, particularly with regard to military and foreign policy matters: Ceausescu refused to allow other Warsaw Pact military forces to maintain bases in the country, and in 1968 he vigorously denounced the Soviet-led invasion of what was then Czechoslovakia. The reformist policies of glasnost and perestroika, introduced by the new Soviet leadership of Mikhail Gorbachev from 1985, were contemptuously rejected by Ceausescu. Consequently Romania lost its unique advantage as the maverick of the Soviet bloc. Also, domestic and international opposition increased as the true nature of the regime’s draconian domestic policies – including forced assimilation of minorities, tight rationing of basic items and severe cultural and political repression – became apparent. In mid-December 1989, protests in the city of Timisoara triggered a nationwide revolt. A large part of the army defected from the regime to join the revolutionaries – under the loose umbrella of the National Salvation Front (NSF) – and for several days the country was in a state of open civil war as the pro-Ceausescu Securitate (secret police) mounted a desperate bid to prevent the collapse of the regime, during which thousands were killed.The President and his wife were captured, quickly tried and executed. The new government, under the provisional leadership of Ion Iliescu (the former Communist Central Committee Secretary) was faced with a number of acute problems: the pacification of the country; the disbanding of the Securitate; the restoration of the economy; and the need to prepare Romania for peaceful multi-party elections. Iliescu has since become the dominant figure in Romanian politics and went on to serve three terms as President. The next three years were a period of serious instability – occasionally breaking out into violence – as Romania made a painful transition from communist dictatorship to pluralist democracy.The ruling National Salvation Front eventually split into two factions led by Petre Roman, Prime Minister for 18 months in 1990 and 1991, and President Iliescu, who formed his own breakaway party, the Democratic National Salvation Front (later renamed the Social Democratic Party of Romania). Over the next decade, it was the Social Democrats who prevailed while the Roman faction dwindled away. However, at the November 1996 elections, the Social Democrats lost control of both the presidency and the national assembly, to a five-party centre-right alliance entitled the Democratic Convention of Romania (DCR). The new Government was wracked by internal squabbling from the start. In April 1998, Prime Minister Viktor Ciorbea resigned from office. Two transitional governments, lasting 20 and nine months respectively, held office until the next round of elections scheduled for November 2000. The Social Democrats were returned to office – the DCR was all but wiped out – and Ion Iliescu took over once again as President. The most ominous feature of the election was the performance of the far-right nationalist Partidul Romania Mare (PDR, Party of Great Romania). The Social Democrats relied on a handful of smaller parties to guarantee a parliamentary majority, and the centre-right party led by Traian Basescu won the most recent presidential elections in December 2004.Although the constant changes of government have confirmed that Romania is now a fully-fledged and cohesive democratic state, they have made it very difficult to pursue and execute major policy initiatives and this has undoubtedly held back the country’s development since 1990. Economic progress has been patchy (see Economy section) while Romania has not advanced as far as its east European counterparts towards its twin principal goals: membership of NATO and of the European Union. Nevertheless, it is definitely in both queues. In 2004 Romania was officially welcomed as a new member of NATO. Membership of the EU will take somewhat longer. A national referendum in October 2003 secured popular support for the policies needed to make Romania eligible to join the EU. This will be a difficult process, involving radical and painful reform of parts of the Romanian economy, but the country is on track to join the EU in 2007/8. Romania’s other foreign policy concerns relate to ethnicity. Alleged discrimination against Romania’s large Hungarian population has caused friction in the past, but this has eased following a series of co-operation agreements between Budapest and Bucharest. The situation in Moldova, the former Soviet republic which has a mainly ethnic Romanian population, has caused occasional problems with Moscow. There is a strong lobby for the unification of Moldova and Romania, but this is fiercely resisted by the mainly Slav population of the eastern Moldovan province of Transnistria. A permanent settlement of the problem, which will also require the endorsement of the Ukrainian Government, has so far proved elusive.
Government
Under the provisions of the constitution adopted in December 1991, the legislature is a bicameral National Assembly, directly elected every four years, comprising the Assembly of Deputies (387 seats) and the Senate (119 seats). Executive power is vested in a government subordinate to the President, who is elected every four years and is limited to a maximum of two terms in office.
Money
Currency
Leu (plural Lei) = 100 bani; Old notes are in denominations of Lei1,000,000, 500,000, 100,000, 50,000 and 10,000. Old coins are in denominations of Lei5000, 1000, 500, 100 and 1.New notes are in denominations of Lei500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1. New coins are in denominations of Bani: 50, 10, 5 and 1. Note: As of 1 July 2005, Romania's legal tender, previously coded as ROL, has been redenominated so that Lei10,000 are exchanged for 1 new Leu (RON). The old Leu will be legal tender until the end of December 2006.
Currency exchange
It is recommended that visitors bring hard currency, particularly US Dollars, as this can be easily and even eagerly exchanged by shops, restaurants and hotels. Sterling can be easily exchanged in most resorts. All hard foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, larger hotels and airports and at authorised exchange offices (Birou de Schimb Valutar). Rates can vary from one place to another, so visitors are advised to shop around for the best rate of exchange. Exchanges on the black market are made frequently, but visitors are advised to exchange money through proper exchange channels and to receive a currency exchange receipt, as certain services require visitors to show the receipt as proof of having made at least one financial transaction. ATMs (bancomat) accepting MasterCard and Visa can be found in main banks, airports and shopping centres but should not be relied upon as a sole source of cash.
Credit & debit cards
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted by large hotels, car hire firms and some restaurants and shops. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Traveller's cheques
Like credit and debit cards, these are usually only useful in hotels and for obtaining cash at the bank or selected exchange offices. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Euros.
Currency restrictions
The import of local currency is prohibited (unless in possession of a special licence); the export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is limited to $10,000; the export of foreign currency is limited to the amount imported.
Exchange rate indicators
DateAt time of publishing£1.00=Lei5.38$1.00=Lei3.10
Banking hours
Mon-Fri 0900-1300.
Overview
Country Overview
Moldova, Ukraine, the Black Sea, Bulgaria, Serbia and Montenegro and Hungary border Romania. Transylvania and Moldavia compose the northern half of the country, which is divided down the middle by the Carpathian Mountains. South of the east–west line of the Carpathians lies the flat Danube plain of Wallachia with the capital Bucharest. Romania’s main resort areas include the Black Sea Coast, the Carpathian Mountains and Transylvania. The Black Sea Coast, ideal for family holidays with 70km (43 miles) of fine white sandy beaches, boasts many resorts, the main ones being Mamaia, Eforie, Saturn and Mangalia. The beautiful and densely forested Carpathian Mountains area lends itself to many sporting and leisure activities such as skiing, bobsleighing, horseriding and tennis. Situated in picturesque valleys and on mountain slopes are many health and winter resorts. Since Roman times the Romanian spas of Transylvania have been known for their miraculous healing powers. Transylvania has many well-equipped spa towns, such as Baile Felix and Covasna. It also contains the famous Bran Castle, said to be one of the original abodes of the medieval king known as Vlad the Impaler, who helped inspire Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula. Local dishes include ciorba de perisoare (soup with meatballs), ciorba tanancasca (meat with vegetables), lamb bors, giblet soup and a variety of fish soups.
OverviewII
Overview
The largest of the Balkan states, Romania has seen several empires come and go, from the Roman, to the Ottoman to the Austro-Hungarian. After the Second World War, the Communists gradually established their political hegemony within the Government: in 1947 the monarchy was deposed and the Government declared the Romanian People’s Republic. Nicolae Ceausescu assumed the post of First Secretary of the Romanian Communist Party (RCP) in 1965 and held power in the country until the dramatic, bloody and largely unpredicted revolution during Christmas 1989. After Ceausescu's death, the new government, under the provisional leadership of Ion Iliescu (the former Communist Central Committee Secretary) was faced with a number of acute problems: the pacification of the country; the disbanding of the Securitate; the restoration of the economy; and the need to prepare Romania for peaceful multi-party elections. In the following years, economic progress has been patchy while Romania has not advanced as far as its east European counterparts towards its twin principal goals: membership of NATO and of the European Union. Nevertheless, in 2004 Romania was officially welcomed as a new member of NATO. Membership of the EU will take somewhat longer. This will be a difficult process, involving radical and painful reform of parts of the Romanian economy, but the country is on track to join the EU in 2007/8. Romania has dramatic mountain scenery including the Carpathian Mountains and Transylvania. The beautiful and densely forested Carpathian Mountains area lends itself to many sporting and leisure activities such as skiing, bobsleighing, horseriding and tennis. Situated in picturesque valleys and on mountain slopes are many health and winter resorts. Since Roman times, the Romanian spas of Transylvania have been known for their miraculous healing powers. The Black Sea Coast, ideal for family holidays with 70km (43 miles) of fine white sandy beaches, boasts many resorts. Transylvania also contains the famous Bran Castle, said to be one of the original abodes of the medieval king known as Vlad the Impaler, who helped inspire Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula. Legend says that Bucharest, the Romanian capital was founded by a shepherd called Bucur, whose name is recognisable in the Romanian version of the name Bucharesti. Located midway between the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea, Bucharest has not earned the nickname ‘Paris of the Balkans’ by accident. Its astonishing range of architecture – from Wallachian wooden and bell-towered mansions to Byzantine-style chapels, neo-classical buildings, striking 1930s modernism and even the post-Stalinist absurdities of Ceaucescu’s megalomaniac regime – cannot help but leave the visitor in awe at the varieties of vision that have taken place in this city over the centuries. But Bucharest has also been the epicentre of the country’s many upheavals, with the stages of the country’s history like vivid tattoos etched across the city’s surface, each telling a different chapter of the story.
Passport/Visa
Passport/Visa
Passports
Passport valid for a minimum of six months after return from Romania required by all with at least one blank page.
Visas
Required by all except the following: (a) 1. nationals mentioned in the chart above for up to 90 days, except nationals of Czech Republic, Poland and Slovak Republic who can stay for up to 30 days; and all nationals of Australia who do require a visa;(b) nationals of Andorra, Costa Rica, Iceland, Korea (Rep), Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Monaco, Republic of Moldova, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and Venezuela for stays of up to 90 days within six months of date of arrival; (c) nationals of Uruguay for stays of up to 90 days within 12 months of arrival;(d) nationals of Bulgaria, Croatia and Singapore for stays of up to 30 days;(e) transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft within 24 hours provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport except for nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Congo (Dem Rep), Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka who always require transit visas. Note: All other nationals require a visa which must be applied for prior to arrival. There are no visas issued on arrival.
Special requirements
Nationals of the following need an official notarised invitation from a company or individual in Romania, which may be faxed by the Embassy to the Romanian Passport General Directorate or any of the Romania County Passport Authorities for approval (allow at least 30 days): Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaidjan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, China (PR), Chad, CIS (except Moldova, Russian Federation and Ukraine), Comoros Islands, Congo (Dem Rep), Congo (Rep), Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, The Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kirgizstan, Korea (Dem Rep), Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Peru, The Philippines, Rwanda, São Tomé e Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Surinam, The Syrian Arab Republic, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Yemen and Zambia (if these nationals are married to Romanian nationals the relevant certificate should be produced).
Note
Nationals of EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland can extend their stay in Romania by submitting an application to the Romanian authorities 30 days before their initial right to stay expires.
Types of visa and cost
Single-entry: £35 (business, conference and family visits or individual tourist). Transit: £27 (single-entry); £35 (double-entry). Multiple-entry: £60 valid for six months and not renewable. An additional fee of £7 is charged for each person included in the passport if travelling with the owner.
Note
Multiple-entry visas will not be issued to nationals listed under Special Requirements above, even if the purpose of their visit is for business.
Validity
Single-entry: Six months from date of issue for stays of up to 90 days. Multiple-entry: Six months from date of issue for stays of up to 90 days each visit. Transit: Five days maximum (for both single- and double-entry).
Application to
Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy); see Passport/Visa Information. Applicants for multiple-entry business visas must apply in their own country.
Application requirements
(a) Passport valid for at least six months after visa expires with a blank page to affix visa stamp. (b) One completed application form. (c) Two recent passport-size photos. (d) Fee (paid in cash or by postal order only). (e) Postal applications should be accompanied by a registered, self-addressed envelope. (f) Medical Insurance. (g) Proof of financial means in amount of $100 per day or the equivalent value in convertible currency for the entire period of time. Tourist (a)-(g) and, (h) Letter from travel agent or a hotel booking in Romania. Business: (a)-(g) and, (h) Letter from employer and invitation from company in Romania. Student: (a)-(g) and, (h) Evidence of enrolment on course. Transit: (a)-(g) and, (h) Ticket for onward travel with visa if required.
Note
All nationals are advised to check with the Romanian Consulate prior to departure to obtain current details of any further documentation which might be required.
Working days required
Visas take up to a maximum of 30 days to be issued, depending on type of visa and nationality. Travellers are advised to apply for a visa at least a month in advance.
Temporary residence
Enquire at Embassy.
Passport/Visa Information
Embassy of Romania in the UKArundel House, 4 Palace Green, London W8 4QD, UK Tel: (020) 7937 9666/7. Website: www.roemb.co.ukOpening hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1700; Mon-Thurs 1000-1300 (visa section).Embassy of Romania in the USA1607 23rd Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA Tel: (202) 332 4846/8. Website: www.roembus.org
Public Holidays
Public Holidays
Below are listed Public Holidays for the January 2006-June 2007 period. Jan 1-2 2006 New Year. Jan 6 Epiphany. Apr 24 Easter Monday (Orthodox). May 1 Labour Day. Dec 1 National Day. Dec 25-26 Christmas. Jan 1-2 2007 New Year. Jan 6 Epiphany. Apr 9 Easter Monday (Orthodox). May 1 Labour Day.
Resorts & Excursions
Introduction
Bucharest
Legend says that the Romanian capital was founded by a shepherd called Bucur, whose name is recognisable in the Romanian version of the name Bucharesti. Located midway between the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea, in southeastern Romania, Bucharest has not earned the nickname ‘Paris of the Balkans’ by accident. Its astonishing range of architecture – from Wallachian wooden and bell-towered mansions to Byzantine-style chapels, neo-classical buildings, striking 1930s modernism and even the post-Stalinist absurdities of Ceaucescu’s megalomaniac regime – cannot help but leave the visitor in awe at the varieties of vision that have taken place in this city over the centuries. But Bucharest has also been the epicentre of the country’s many upheavals, with the stages of the country’s history like vivid tattoos etched across the city’s surface, each telling a different chapter of the story. There are a number of buildings which are of constant interest to visitors: The 19th-century Roman Atheneum, the Palace of the CEC, the University, the Palace of Justice, the Town Hall and the Old Parliament Building, built in 1907. Churches of interest include the 18th-century Stravropoleos and the 17th-century Partriarchal Cathedral. Bucharest is also home to the second largest building in the world, after the Pentagon. The Parliament Palace, built in the 1989, was initially called the People's Palace and it admired for both its colossal size and its exceptional facilities. Among the most important streets in Bucharest is Calea Victoriei (Victory Road) which holds the The Vernescu House and The George Enescu Museum (Museum of Collections). Boulevards Gh. Magheru, Carol I, Calea Mosilor, Calea Dorobantilor and Soseaua Kiseleff are also important. The Romanian capital has many interesting museums such as The Museum of the Romanian Peasant which was awarded the 'European Museum of the Year' in 1994, The Museum of History of Bucharest, The National History Museum of Romania, The Art Museum of Romania (situated in the former royal palace) and the National Museum Cotroceni within the Cotroceni Palace. Bucharest now boasts trendy bars and clubs, some capitalising on the history of Vlad the Impaler, Bucharest’s most infamous son, with cobwebs and dank underground dancefloors. Beyond Bucharest are the palaces of Mogosoaia, Buftea and Heresti and old buildings and monasteries in Snagov, Cernica, Pasarea, Caldarusani and Tiganesti.
Black Sea Coast
This coastline is the principal tourist area of Romania and ideal for family holidays. Its 70km (43 miles) of fine white sandy beaches boasts many resorts, the main ones being Costinesti, Eforie Nord, Eforie Sud, Jupiter, Mamaia, Mangalia, Navodari, Neptun, Olimp, Saturn, Techirghiol, Venus and Aurora. There are boating centres for watersports on the sea and lakes, and both daytime and evening cruises. The curative properties of the salt waters and the mud from Lake Techirghiol (whose thermal springs have a year-round temperature of 24°C/75°F), Mangalia, Eforie and Neptun make the Romanian Riviera popular with those seeking spa treatments, especially for rheumatism. The Greek/Byzantine port of Constanta, founded in the sixth century BC, merits a visit, and inland there are interesting archaeological sites including the ancient Greek city ruins of Histria, Tomis and Callatis. The area is inhabited by foxes, otters, wildcats and boars and in the migratory periods one can see over 300 species of birds.
Danube Delta
Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this vast expanse of protected watery wilderness in the north of the Romanian Black Sea coast comprises three main arms of the Danube with numerous little waterways, wetlands, small patches of forest and a rich and varied wildlife. The backwaters can be explored by fishing boat or floating hotel, and several hotels and campsites welcome visitors. The main town of the Delta is Tulcea with its excellent Danube Delta Museum.
Carpathian Mountains
This beautiful and densely forested mountainous area lends itself to many sporting and leisure activities such as skiing, bob-sleighing, horseriding and tennis. Situated in picturesque valleys and on mountain slopes are many health and winter resorts, open all year round and well equipped with ski-hire facilities. The major resorts are: Borsa, Busteni, Durau, Paltinis, Poiana Brasov and Predeal (both of which have illuminated ski slopes), Semenic and Sinaia (bob-sleigh tracks). All are equipped to cater for a long winter sports season running from December to April. Spectacular mountain lakes are found in the Fagaras and Retezat ranges, and caves in the Apuseni, Bihor and Mehedinti regions. The Hurezi Monastery, in the Vâlcea county, has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
Bukovina
An area in the northern Carpathian foothills which has unique churches and monasteries with exceptional frescoes dating back 500 years. Sucevita is the home of a monastery with the largest number of frescoes in the region. 29km (18 miles) west of Sucevita is Moldovita, renowned for its spectacular paintings. The Moldavian region has 48 monasteries in total, nearly all of them built to celebrate victories over the Turks in the 14th and 15th centuries. There are also numerous beautiful old churches, notable for their painted exterior walls decorated with 15th- and 16th-century Byzantine frescoes. Seven of them are now included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Transylvania
Since Roman times, Romanian spas have been known for their miraculous healing powers. Transylvania holds many well-equipped spa towns, such as Baile Felix, Baile Herculane, Covasna and Sovata, some of which have facilities offering acupuncture, acupressure and slimming cures. It is here that the myth of Dracula, immortalised in Bram Stoker’s famous novel, originated. The original Dracula was a medieval King known as ‘Vlad the Impaler’, owing to his unpleasant habits. One of Vlad’s original abodes is Bran Castle; set in a commanding position, with its thick walls and peaked tower, it offers a dramatic view and a chilling atmosphere (tours are available to Bran Castle from the mountain resort of Poiana Brasov, where it is possible to ski in winter and undertake mountain climbing and walking in summer). From here it's possible to travel to Sibiu which has a great market. Transylvania is also known for its numerous Saxon fortified churches, including the Biertan Church, which stands on top of a hill overlooking the village of Biertan and is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sport & Activities
Watersports
Beaches and luxury resorts line the Black Sea coast, which extends for some 245km (153 miles) from the Danube Delta towards the border with Bulgaria in the south. The sea is clean and the absence of tides makes it ideal for swimming, windsurfing and many other types of waterports. Some of the best-known resorts include the seaport of Constanta; Mamaia, which has a 7km- (4.5 mile-) long beach; and a string of luxury resorts named after women and mythological gods, such as Neptune, Jupiter or Venus (for further details on seaside resorts, see also Resorts & Excursions section). Sailing is widely practised on the coast, while Romania’s many rivers are well-suited for kayaking. Tourists wishing to explore the waterways of the protected and UNESCO-listed Danube Delta must comply with strict conservation regulations. Visitors arriving with their own boat must pay a fee at Tulcea Harbour Station and produce their passports, a sailing licence and valid registration papers for their craft.
Fishing
Romania has many easily accessible places for fishing such as the Danube Delta (where there are over 160 fish species including sturgeon, wel, pike and carp) and on lake shores around big cities. For details of legal requirements, contact the Romanian National Tourist Office (see Contact Addresses section).
Winter sports
There are numerous facilities for skiing with pistes of varying degrees of difficulty found in almost all mountain resorts, the majority of which are equipped with cable cars. The main ski resorts are at Poiana Brasov (13km/8 miles from Brasov) and Sinaia. Facilities are fairly limited in comparison to more established skiing destinations. Locals are very friendly and most ski instructors speak English. National and international skiing and bob-sleighing competitions are held annually. Sledging tracks, skating and ice hockey are available at most mountain resorts.
Health spas
Romania has been a renowned spa country since Roman times and there is a choice of 70 health centres as well as 3000 mineral-rich thermal springs. The most renowned health resorts include Baile Herculane in the Cerna Valley (southern Carpathians); Baile Felix (near the city of Ordena in the northwest); and Sovata (in Transylvania near Ursu lake, popular with women). Romanian spas are particularly known for mudbaths (using the sapropelic black mud from Lake Techirghiol) and the Gerovital cure pioneered by Professor Ana Aslan. For further details contact the National Organisation of Spas, 2-4 Luterana Street, Sector 1, Bucharest 1 (tel: (1) 312 2993; fax: (1) 314 8097; e-mail: optbr@fx.ro; website: www.spas.ro).
Folklore and culture
Traditional folk music and dancing is still very much alive and shows can be seen in many hotels and restaurants. The renowned Romanian composer Georg Enescu’s Romanian Rhapsody is world famous. Regional crafts and costumes also play an important part of everyday life: woodcarving, pottery and ceramics, wooden architecture and glass paintings can be found throughout the country. The Dracula myth originated in Romania, where a medieval king known as ‘Vlad the Impaler’ became the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula. One of Vlad’s homes, Bran Castle, can be visited in Transylvania.
Top Things To Do
Top things to do
• Wander around some of the most important streets in Bucharest: Calea Victoriei (Victory Road) which holds the The Vernescu House and Boulevards Gh. Magheru, Carol I, Calea Mosilor, Calea Dorobantilor and Soseaua Kiseleff. • Enjoy a range of watersports or simply relax on the beaches of the Black Sea Coast. This coastline is the principal tourist area of Romania and ideal for family holidays. Its 70km (43 miles) of fine white sandy beaches boast many resorts, the main ones being Constanta, Costinesti, Eforie Nord, Eforie Sud, Jupiter, Mamaia, Mangalia, Navodari, Neptun, Olimp, Saturn, Techirghiol, Venus and Aurora. • Feel rejuvenated by the curative properties of the salt waters and the mud from Lake Techirghiol (whose thermal springs have a year-round temperature of 24°C/75°F). Mangalia, Eforie and Neptun make the Romanian Riviera popular with those seeking spa treatments, especially for rheumatism. Transylvania holds many well-equipped spa towns, such as Baile Felix, Baile Herculane, Covasna and Sovata, some of which have facilities offering acupuncture, acupressure and slimming cures. • In the Carpathian Mountains, a densely forested mountainous area, practice many sporting and leisure activities such as skiing, bob-sleighing, horseriding and tennis. Situated in picturesque valleys and on mountain slopes are many health and winter resorts, open all year round. The major resorts are: Borsa, Busteni, Durau, Paltinis, Poiana Brasov and Predeal (both of which have illuminated ski slopes), Semenic and Sinaia (bob-sleigh tracks). Spectacular mountain lakes are found in the Fagaras and Retezat ranges, and caves in the Apuseni, Bihor and Mehedinti regions. • Purchase regional crafts: woodcarving, pottery and ceramics, wooden architecture and glass paintings can be found throughout the country.
Tourist Information
Romanian National Tourist Office in UK22 New Cavendish Street, London W1M 7LH, UK Tel: (020) 7224 3692. Website: www.romaniatourism.com or www.visitromania.comRomanian National Tourist Office in the USA355 Lexington Avenue, 19th Floor, New York, NY 10017, USA Tel: (212) 545 8484. Website: www.romaniatourism.com
Top Things To See
Top things to see
• Discover the astonishing range of architecture of Bucharest, known as the ‘Paris of the Balkans’: the 19th-century Roman Atheneum, the Palace of the CEC, the University, the Palace of Justice, the Town Hall and the Old Parliament Building, built in 1907. Churches of interest include the 18th-century Stravropoleos and the 17th-century Patriarchal Cathedral. • In Bucharest, admire the colossal size and exceptional facilities of the Parliament Palace, the second largest building in the world, after the Pentagon. Built in the 1989, it was initially called the People's Palace. • The Romanian capital has many interesting museums such as The Museum of the Romanian Peasant which was awarded the 'European Museum of the Year' in 1994, The Museum of History of Bucharest, The National History Museum of Romania, The Art Museum of Romania (situated in the former royal palace), The George Enescu Museum (Museum of Collections) and the National Museum Cotroceni within the Cotroceni Palace. • Beyond Bucharest, head for the palaces of Mogosoaia, Buftea and Heresti and old buildings and monasteries in Snagov, Cernica, Pasarea, Caldarusani and Tiganesti. • On the Black Sea Coast, visit the Greek/Byzantine port of Constanta, founded in the sixth century BC; inland there are interesting archaeological sites including the ancient Greek city ruins of Histria, Tomis and Callatis. The area is inhabited by foxes, otters, wildcats and boars and in the migratory periods one can see over 300 species of birds. The Danube Delta, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, is a vast expanse of protected watery wilderness in the north of the Romania Black Sea Coast, also rich in wildlife. The Danube Delta Museum is worth a visit. • Do not miss the Hurezi Monastery, in the Vâlcea county, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.• Get your imagination running at Bran Castle It is here that the myth of Dracula, immortalised in Bram Stoker’s famous novel, originated. The original Dracula was a medieval King known as ‘Vlad the Impaler’, owing to his unpleasant habits. One of Vlad’s original abodes is Bran Castle; set in a commanding position, with its thick walls and peaked tower, it offers a dramatic view and a chilling atmosphere (tours are available to Bran Castle from the mountain resort of Poiana Brasov, where it is possible to ski in winter and undertake mountain climbing and walking in summer). • See Transylvania's numerous Saxon fortified churches, including the Biertan Church, which stands on top of a hill overlooking the village of Biertan and is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.•
Traditional folk music and dancing is still very much alive and shows can be seen in many hotels and restaurants.
Tourist Information
Romanian National Tourist Office in UK22 New Cavendish Street, London W1M 7LH, UK Tel: (020) 7224 3692. Website: www.romaniatourism.com or www.visitromania.comRomanian National Tourist Office in the USA355 Lexington Avenue, 19th Floor, New York, NY 10017, USA Tel: (212) 545 8484. Website: www.romaniatourism.com
Travel - Internal
Air
Carpatair (www.carpatair.com) operates domestic flights from Timisoara to Bucharest, Constanta, Bacau, Cluj, Iasi, Oradea, Tirgu-Mures, Satu-Mare, Arad and Suceava. A couple of flights also operate from Cluj. Tarom (RO) operates regular services from Baneasa (travel time – 20 minutes to Otopeni) to Arad, Baia Mare, Cluj-Napoca, Constanta, Iasi, Oradea, Satu Mare, Sibiu, Suceava, Timisoara and Tirgu Mures.
River
The Danube Delta is easily explored by boat. Most trips and cruises depart from the ancient city of Tulcea and sail to Sulina.
Rail
Bucharest’s main station is the Gara de Nord on Calea Grivitei. Romanian State Railways (website: www.cfr.ro) runs frequent, efficient and cheap services to most cities, towns and larger villages, some with sleeping and restaurant cars. There are five different types of train, varying in speed from the slow personal to the faster accelerat, rapid and express trains, and the more expensive and comfortable Inter-City. The other two types of train have dining cars and sleepers. Supplements are payable on rapid and express trains, for which seats must be reserved in advance. Express routes run from Bucharest to Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, Iasi, Constanta and Brasov. Rail Inclusive Tour tickets include transport and hotel accommodation. There are no platforms of any great height in Romania, making entering and alighting a little difficult for the elderly or infirm. There is a discount of 25 to 35 per cent for non-express trains. For train enthusiasts, there are nine steam train dating from the 1920s and 1930s, some of which have been restored, that are available to rent to organisations and individuals. Contact the Romania National Tourist Office for more information (see Top Things To Do). The EuroDomino pass enables holders anything from three to eight days' extensive travel within a one-month period on the entire rail network of their chosen country. It is valid in 26 European countries. To purchase a EuroDomino pass you must have been resident in Europe for at least six months and a passport number is required at time of booking. It is not permitted to purchase a pass for travel within your own country of residence. To qualify for the youth rates, you must be under 26 years on the first date of validity of the pass. Children aged four to 11 years inclusive pay half the adult fares rounded up to the nearest pound. Children under four years travel free. Seat reservations, couchette and sleeper charges are not included in the cost of the pass and are payable at the normal rate. Passholder fares are payable on some services. Available from Rail Europe (website: www.raileurope.co.uk/railpasses/eurodomino.htm).
Road
Traffic drives on the right. Road conditions vary widely throughout Romania. While major streets in larger cities and major inter-city roads are in fair to good condition, other roads are in poor repair, badly lit, narrow and often do not have marked lanes. Drivers need to be alert for horse-drawn carts and livestock especially at night. Tolls are charges on motorways and main roads, payable in Euros. Vignettes can be bought for one-week or one-month and can be bought at border points, post offices and at most petrol stations throughout Romania. Fines are charges for those without vignettes. The Romanian Automobile Club (ACR) has its headquarters in Bucharest (tel: (21) 212 8247 or 223 4525) and offers services through all its branches to AA and RAC members. Coach: Several bus companies offer fast and inexpensive connections between Romania's main cities. Inter-city bus stations are usually located next to the train stations. The main coach stations in Bucharest are at 164 Soseaua Alexandriei, 1 Ion Ionescu de la Brad Boulevard, 1 Piata Gãrii Filarest, 221 Soseaua Chitilei, 141 Pacii Boulevard and 3 Gãrii Obor Boulevard. Taxi: Metered taxis can be hailed in the street or called from hotels. Prices are relatively low, but drivers expect a 10 per cent tip. Although most drivers are honest, prices should be agreed beforehand, especially at the airport. Car hire: Available at hotels and at Bucharest Airport. Driving is very erratic, so it might be advisable to hire a car with a driver. Regulations: Children under 12 are not allowed to travel in the front seat and front seat passengers must wear a seatbelt. Speed limits are 50k/h (30mph) in built up areas, 90k/h (56mph) on main roads, and 110 k/h (70mph) on highways. Driving under the influence of alcohol is forbidden. Documentation: National driving licence or International Driving Permit are required, as is Green Card insurance. Most Romanian roads are best suited to 4-wheel-drive vehicles as they are in poor, potholed condition. Police carry out frequent checks so it is essential that you observe the speed limit, ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and you have all your car documents.
Urban
Most cities offer efficient and inexpensive bus, trollybus or tram transport. Bucharest has a good bus and tram system and a metro. Tickets are pre-purchased from agents, and there are stamping machines on board buses and trains. There are also daily, weekly and fortnightly passes. A separate minibus network is operated.
Travel - International
Air
The national airline is Tarom (RO) (website: www.tarom.ro).
Approximate flight times
From Bucharest to London is three hours and 15 minutes.
Main airports
Bucharest (BUH) (Otopeni) (website: www.otp-airport.ro) is 16km (10 miles) north of the city (travel time – 25 minutes). The airport has been greatly modernised in recent years, but some visitors may find it relatively limited compared to Western European or American standards. To/from the airport: There is an express bus service (bus no. 783) which runs every 15 minutes between 0530-2330 Mon-Fri and every 30 minutes Sat-Sun and holidays; the journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Taxis, minibuses and limousines are available 24 hours (travel time – 25 minutes). Facilities: Bar, snack bar, restaurant, left luggage, first aid, post office, bank and ATM, car hire and duty free.There are also international airports at Arad (ARW), Cluj (CLJ) (website: www.airportcluj.ro), Constanta (CND) (Mihail Kogalniceanu), Sibiu (SBZ) (website: www.sibiu.ro) and Timisoara (TSR) (website: www.airotim.ro).
Departure tax
None.
Sea/River
Main ports: Constanta on the Black Sea. Sea ferries: Not running at present. Contact the Romanian National Tourist Office for up-to-date information (see Top Things To Do). River cruises: Sailings from Passau to Constanta on the Black Sea along the Danube are available; these stop at various places of interest, including Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, Bazias, Giurgiu, Calafat and Bucharest. The cruises incorporate varied itineraries: historic towns, museums, art collections, monasteries, spas, archaeological sites, folk evenings, nature reserves and of course, the dramatic scenery of Eastern Europe, including the ‘Iron Gate’ through the Carpathians. With the opening of the Main-Danube Canal, some companies now offer travel as far west as Rotterdam along the Rhine. For further information, contact the Romanian National Tourist Office (see Top Things To Do).
Rail
Romania National Railways (SNCFR) (website: www.cfr.ro) operates services from many European cities to Bucharest. First and second class sleepers are available for journeys longer than 10 hours and for overnight journeys. The main international train from Western Europe to Romania (Bucharest) is the Wiener Waltzer, which runs to Bucharest in summer only (June to September) and includes two nights’ travel from Basel, arriving in Bucharest two days later. There are no through carriages from Basel, which means moving to the Bucharest coaches in Vienna. As well as day carriages, there are sleeping cars from Vienna to both Bucharest and Constanta on the Black Sea coast. There are also through trains from other Eastern European cities.
Rail Passes
The Inter-Rail pass offers unlimited second-class train travel in up to 29 European countries (includes Morocco and Turkey) split into eight zones (A-H). Three different tickets are available: a ticket covering one zone (two to six countries, 16 days' validity), a ticket covering two zones (six to 10 countries, 22 days' validity) and an All Zone Pass (29 countries, one month's validity). Ferry services between Italy and Greece are included. Passengers must be resident in Europe for at least six months before the pass is used. Travel is not allowed in the passenger's country of residence. Travellers under 26 years receive a reduction of about 30 per cent. Children's tickets are reduced by about 50 per cent. Supplements are required for some high-speed services, seat reservations and couchettes. Discounts are offered on Eurostar and some ferry routes. Available from Inter Rail (website: www.interrail.com).
Road
Border crossing between Romania and its western neighbours is just a formality. At the border, drivers need to show vehicle registration, proof of insurance and a Driver's Licence for their home country. Insurance can be bought at any border crossing point. The most direct international routes to Romania are via Austria, Germany and Hungary. The best route from Hungary is the E64 from Budapest to Szeged through Arad, Brasov, Campina and Ploiesti. There is also a route from Szeged to Timisoara. A more frequently used route from Hungary to Germany is via the E60 through Oradea. There are numerous and excellent road links with all neighbouring countries. Eurolines, (52 Grosvenor Gardens, London SW1W 0AU; tel (08705) 143 219; website: www.eurolines.com) and National Express (ensign Court, 4 Vicarage Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3ES; tel: 08705 808 080; website: www.nationalexpress.com) run regular coach services from the UK to Romania and other European cities. Travellers can either choose Mini-Pass breaks or book a 15-, 30-, or 60-day pass. The six Mini-passes give travellers the freedom to visit three cities, with prices starting from £55. Travellers can stay as long as they like in each city.
Travel Advice
Most visits to Romania are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. Beware of pickpockets and other petty thieves in crowded areas. This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice. British Foreign and Commonwealth Office Tel: (0845) 850 2829. Website: www.fco.gov.uk US Department of State Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel
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ROMANIA
