Romania

Romania is a country at the eastern edges of Europe full of history, charm and beauty. It was officially our first European country and what a great first taste it is. The natural beauty, the cities, the history and especially the people will forever be in our hearts. We visited in the cold bitter winter but the country’s warmth will be a constant encouragement to return in summer as we were told its beauty is at its peak then. However for now, our experiences are limited with a wintry wonderland visit to this warm-hearted country.

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Bucharest

Our first day in Bucharest is something to remember. We had just been on a 14 hour overnight bus ride from Istanbul where – on two separate occasions during the two border crossings – we had to stand outside for 30 minutes (which felt like an eternity) in the middle of the night in the freezing cold as border control checked everyone’s papers in the middle of a winter storm. It goes without saying that we were very keen to get off the bus, into a nice warm bed and rest our cold weary bones.

Unfortunately, the weather had different plans for us. We had timed our visit perfectly as we had arrived during a winter snow storm. The snow had been falling all night but it took a worst shape as we were arriving in the city. By the time we were dropped off near a metro station, the wind howled bitterly and snow fell in droves blanketing every surface area in sight. Our walk to our stay was simply impossible. Our suitcase no longer rolled on the sidewalks; instead it dragged snow with it making us one of the first responders to plow the city streets. It was hard to see where we were heading as the snowfall made visibility a thing of the past.

With the severe weather, the communist-blocks of residential housing and the looming tall gray government buildings, it was hard not to think of Romania as a hard, bitter, and cold place to live in.

But what we found shocked us

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Romania has some of the warmest, nicest and easy-going people we have met in Europe. It may not seem this way at first with how everyone looks miserable – but never judge a book by its cover. We have had random strangers offering us helpful advice without us knowing we even made the mistake in the first place. People warmly welcoming us to their homes and the classic taxi driver giving us a heartfelt recommendations in the city. In our experience, one of the standouts in Romania are its amazing people.

Recommendations

Museum of Communism in Romania is a very interesting privately-run museum in Old Town Bucharest. It dives deep into the history of Communism in the country and does an extraordinary job to provide insightful information about what, why, when and how. Aside from this, it also focuses on different aspects of life aside from the politics under the communist era. Better yet, they actually allow you to interact with some of the antique objects from this period of the past. This museum is a great little hidden gem and we would highly recommend dropping by for a quick fun and insightful visit.

National Museum of Romanian History dives deeper into the country’s history. From the different wars in the past, to its Roman history, its monarchy and much much more. One can spend a whole day here learning about what are some of the building blocks that make this country what it is today.

Hanu’lui Manuc if you’re craving some classic, traditional Romanian cuisine, this is the spot. Situated in the middle of Old Town, this restaurant provides many dining options in a very nice environment. It’s a bit expensive for my tastes but the service, and the food quality is very very good.

Pain Au Cafe is situated in Old Town and has got great coffee and a cozy environment to enjoy it in. There is plenty of seating and tables to go around and with a great drink options what’s not to love?

Cismigiu Gardens holds a very special place in our hearts. Our stay was just right next to this amazing green space in the middle of the city. Littered with great tall trees, this park is one to enjoy a walk through. During the winter, they even host a public skating rink. When the fresh snowfall hit, this place was winter wonderland.

Brasov

Need a break from the city? Fear not as Romania has got exactly what you need – Brasov is a beautiful city nestled by the Carpathian Mountains. It is often a jumping-off point for other popular attractions like some of the castles in the region, ski hills, hiking, and more! This area is abundant in both natural beauty and history.

We took the train from Bucharest to Brasov; I would highly recommend reserving seats as this train can be quite busy. The ride was nice for the most part as we rolled through the rural farmlands of the country. However, the fields turned to rolling hills and eventually we were in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains. I loved watching the windows as we rode the train tracks through jagged peaks of rocky giants – this was especially special as the country just got a thick coating of fresh snow the past week from a winter storm. We truly felt like we were in a winter wonderland. As we got settled into the city, we decided to do some quick exploring before the sun hid under the horizon. We walked around the area and we were convinced: Brasov is a beautiful place to be.

Brasov Recommendations

Peleș Castle has been on the top of my list since I visited Japan 4 months ago. I was recommended by an Austrian man to visit this amazingly preserved beautiful castle deep in the mountains. It is relatively modern compared to other castles as it was just finished in the last century. It even has running water, electricity and an elevator. Best yet, it has central heating which made our visit so much more pleasant as it was absolutely freezing outside. Come visit this time capsule from the past era of the Romanian monarchy and take in all of its beauty.

Cantacuzino Castle – we actually did not go to this one. HOWEVER, we saw it a handful of times as we were passing by on the train. The castle towers over the surrounding valley, its stature is hard to ignore. Its walls look like it could hold off armies and the test of time. It stands mighty infront of jagged behemoths – the view of the surrounding mountains is just jaw dropping. It goes without saying, I wish we also went to Cantacuzino Castle – so don’t make the mistake we did.

Foccaceria Roma was a great spot to hit after a long day – their Focaccia is to die for. They’re a bit on the expensive side but they are worth every penny. The ingredients they use are the best and their recipes has a way of working perfectly. They also have a wide range of items available on the menu. I would recommend checking this place out!

Shakespeare Coffee and Poetry – This place is popular and for a good reason. The space is quaint and has got a great mood; it feels like a place where scholars would meet for a discussion or a light drink. When we came here, it was absolutely packed which gave it more of a loud, noisy vibe. We wish we stayed but there was just not enough suitable seating for us. If I could, I’d enjoy a cup of coffee here at a quieter time. Perhaps on a weekday. Nonetheless, its popular for a reason so make sure you check it out!

Key’s Coffee and Lounge – Since our first choice was absolutely packed (mentioned above), we had to scramble to finding an alternative choice. We found Key’s. A low-key coffee lounge just by the black church. Its decor does not necessarily match an aesthetic but it is quiet, intimate and the coffee and sandwiches provided are great. If you need some alone/chill/cozy time, come and check this great place out.

Roata Norocului was a suggestion we got from a very friendly taxi driver. He’s lived all of his 40 years here and this is the one spot he recommended. On our last night, we finally went to check it out and it was a lot more than we imagine. It is a very popular dining hall offering traditional Romanian food – a cuisine I would describe as very comforting, warm and feels like home. It can be very busy and loud but the prices and tastes are unbeatable.

Casa Terezia is a homely lodging tucked away in side the old town in Brasov. It offers humble amenities and does not aim to impress – instead, it feels like home away from home. Its location is undoubtedly very good as it is right next to everything but it is truly the owner (Terezia) that makes you feel right at home. She is lovely, caring and very nice. I would recommend checking this one out if it fits your needs.

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