Romania

The Republic of Romania is located in southeastern central Europe.  It shares borders with Ukraine to the north, Moldova and the Black Sea to the east, Bulgaria to the south, and Serbia and Hungary to the west.  The river Danube crosses the southeast of the country.  The Carpathian Mountain range crosses the country from north to south and join the Transylvanian Alps which run from east to west.  The country is divided into several separate geographic regions including: Transylvania, Moldavia and Walachia.  Romanian is the official and most-spoken language, although Hungarian, French and German are also widely spoken and there are smaller ethnic communities speaking their own languages.   Bucharest is the capital city and also the largest city, located in the Walachia region.  The coastline of Romania in the south lies along the Black Sea, and also includes the port of Constanta.  Major cities include Suceava in the north, Timisoara in the west, Sibiu and Brasov in the centre and Constanta in the southeast.   Romania joined NATO in 2004 and the European Union in 2007.

Romania is a beautiful country with many spectacular castles, palaces, medieval towns, painted monasteries and popular Black Sea coastal resorts and mineral spas.   It is a place well worth taking the time to explore the medieval towns and wander the cobbled narrow streets.  Don’t miss the painted churches and monasteries, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites

Mention Romania and many will immediately think of the legend of Count Dracula, brought to life by Bram Stoker and through actors such as Christopher Lee and Bela Lugosi.  The Dracula we all know from the films and novel was actually a fictional character based on Vlad Tepes or ‘Vlad the Impaler’ who ruled over Walachia during the 14th century. The Dracula legend remains popular with Vampire books and films still drawing huge audiences.  There are, of course, tours to take in the Dracula legend throughout the country and the 13th century medieval Bran Castle, which is known as Dracula’s Castle.  It is worth delving into the interesting life of Dracula or Vlad Tepes.

The coastal resorts on the Black Sea are very popular summer destinations with lovely beaches, resorts and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.  Some of the most well known include Constanta, Mamaia and Neptun.  Those suffering with various ailments have flocked to this area for a long time to seek cures in the mud baths and spas. 

The Danube Delta area is listed as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site and it is also very highly protected.  This is the area where the Danube River flows to the Black Sea through the Danube Delta.  This area is rich with wildlife and many species of birds and popular with bird watchers, but access can be limited.

For more information click on:  www.romaniatourism.com.

Bucharest

Located in the south-central area of the country in Walachia, the largest Romanian city of Bucharest is today a very modern city with wide boulevards and a rich history and culture.  

Attractions include the National Museum of History, Arc de Triomphe and Royal Palace (now the National Art Museum), Romanian Athenaeum (concert hall), and the huge Parliament Palace.  There are dozens of museums in total, as well as theatres, an opera house, concert halls, art galleries and a lively nightlife.   Bucharest also has some lovely parks and a botanical garden where you can rest and unwind.  For those who like to try their luck in elegant surroundings, there are a number of casinos which are located in converted mansions and palaces.  The city is also host to many music festivals throughout the year. There is plenty for shoppers from high fashion to budget and indoor malls.  You may want to pick up some souvenirs and gifts of local craft items such as embroidered clothing and linens.  To get about in Bucharest you can use the buses, trams, trolley buses and metro trains. 

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