Romania

M ention Romania to most Americans and the first thing they think of is Dracula and Transylvania. And, in fact, the Romanian tourism people haven’t done much to change the image – they continue to heavily promote Dracula tours since it’s the one Romanian export that most Americans know.

That’s why the country seems so surprising once you arrive, since you don’t know what to expect. Bucharest, which still bears the scars of a crumbling Eastern European city, is not a popular destination for many Americans. But once you get outside the city – and the country has a fairly good train system to help you do so – you’ll discover the beautiful interior, Transylvania and all, and an interesting mix of people and cultures.

Top Experiences

Sibiu – a beautiful old quarter
Transylvania – Count Dracula et al
Bucovina – buildings as illustrated Bibles

Good to Know

Romania’s Painted Monasteries
In Romania centuries ago, monks turned their actual monasteries into works of art.

Transportation

There are no non-stop flights from North America although there are connections to Bucharest International Airport from several other European cities. Trains and buses connect many towns and cities throughout the country. Travel by car can be dangerous due to aggressive drivers, as well as horse carts on rural roads.

Hotels

Romania has a good variety of hotels – from budget to luxury – built in recent years in response to its growing tourism industry.

Food

Although many menus concentrate on traditional dishes – including grilled meats and pasta — you will find international restaurants in Bucharest, although fewer outside the capital.

Quality of Medical Care (Good/Fair/Poor)

Fair