Returning from a trip to Romania, I find myself reflecting on both the wonderful and the unexpected moments. Romania is a country that has so much more to offer than meets the eye. Its blend of medieval charm, beautiful landscapes, and warm-hearted people make it a unique destination. But like any trip, there were a few bumps along the way.
Unexpectedly Warm and Friendly Locals
One of the first things that struck me was the warmth and openness of the Romanian people. Almost everywhere I went, from bustling Bucharest to quaint mountain villages, locals were quick to lend a hand. Whether it was helping me with directions or sharing stories about their culture and history, I felt welcomed in a way that made me appreciate the depth of Romania’s hospitality.
A memorable encounter happened in a small village in Maramureș, where I met an older couple who invited me into their home for a traditional meal. Communication was a bit of a challenge since they didn’t speak much English, but that didn’t stop us from connecting. We laughed, shared food, and exchanged stories through gestures and smiles. It was these spontaneous moments that made me feel like I was truly experiencing Romania.
Culinary Surprises at Every Turn
Romanian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, and I found myself constantly surprised by the diversity of dishes and flavors. While dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled sausages) were familiar, it was the less-known delicacies that left a lasting impression.
One dish I wasn’t expecting to enjoy as much was ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup). The combination of sourness from vinegar and creaminess from sour cream made it unique, and surprisingly delicious. I also loved papanași, a Romanian dessert made from fried doughnuts topped with sour cream and jam. The blend of sweet and tangy flavors was unforgettable, and it quickly became a favorite.
In Bucharest, I ventured into a few local markets and found fresh, seasonal fruits, handmade cheeses, and locally produced wines. The freshness of the produce and the pride of the vendors made shopping in these markets a cultural experience in itself. Trying țuică, a traditional plum brandy, was another culinary adventure; while it may not be for everyone, it’s a must-try for anyone wanting a real taste of Romanian traditions.
Exploring Romania’s Hidden Treasures
From historic castles to picturesque landscapes, Romania is a treasure trove of scenic and cultural experiences. Visiting Corvin Castle, a Gothic marvel in Hunedoara, felt like stepping into a fairy tale, with its towering walls, winding corridors, and legends of hauntings. The Carpathian Mountains, meanwhile, were a hiker’s dream—peaceful trails, wildflowers, and breathtaking views around every corner.
But it’s not only about the famous sights; the lesser-known areas like Alba Iulia Citadel or the Apuseni Mountains also had their own unique charm. Alba Iulia, for instance, is rich with history and feels like a living museum. The fortified citadel was a joy to explore, and watching the changing of the guards in traditional costumes gave me a sense of Romanian pride and heritage.
The Not-So-Great Moments: Petty Theft and Service Issues
Of course, no trip is perfect, and there were a few less pleasant experiences along the way. In Bucharest, I had a minor brush with petty crime when my phone was stolen from a café. While it was frustrating, the staff and other customers were quick to offer help, and I appreciated the support. Unfortunately, petty theft is a reality in many big cities, so I’d recommend being vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
On a few occasions, I also encountered less-than-stellar service, particularly in some smaller establishments where the concept of “customer service” seemed a bit lacking. For example, in one restaurant, the staff seemed more interested in chatting among themselves than attending to customers. Though these experiences were rare, they did remind me that service quality can vary quite a bit in Romania. While it didn’t spoil my trip, it’s something to keep in mind for travelers who are used to more consistent service.
The Primus Trans Fiasco
However, the most frustrating part of my trip was my experience with Primus Trans, a transfer service I had booked well in advance to pick me up from Bucharest Airport. Their website primustrans.com seemed professional, with promises of reliable and punctual transfer service, also reviews are all glossy in the internet. I made the booking thinking it would save me from the hassle of haggling with taxis or dealing with unpredictable rideshares.
When I arrived at the airport in Bucharest, I expected to see my driver holding a sign with my name. Instead, there was no one from Primus Trans to be found. I waited for a few minutes, thinking they might be delayed, but after 20 minutes, I started to worry. I called the number provided, and the man who answered sounded more annoyed than apologetic. His response was, “They’ll be there soon.” I waited another 20 minutes, but still no sign of anyone. Frustrated, I called back, and this time, his advice was to just take a public taxi, promising I’d be refunded later.
Feeling stranded and increasingly irritated, I finally flagged down a taxi and made my way to the hotel. This lack of professionalism and accountability from Primus Trans left a sour taste, especially since it was one of my first interactions upon arriving. I would caution anyone considering Primus Trans to have a backup plan, as their service fell far short of what was promised, almost scam-like I would dare to say.
Reflecting on the Journey
Despite the few hiccups, my trip to Romania was filled with memorable moments that I’ll cherish. The people, the food, and the stunning landscapes made it a journey well worth taking. Romania has a spirit of resilience and warmth that shines through, even when things don’t go quite as planned.
For anyone thinking of visiting, I would say go with an open mind and a sense of adventure. Romania may surprise you with its contrasts and its hidden beauty. And while there may be challenges, the positives far outweigh the negatives. In my next post, I’ll delve deeper into some of the travel tips and warnings, so future travelers can make the most of their Romanian adventure while avoiding some of the pitfalls I encountered.
Unexpectedly Warm and Friendly Locals
One of the first things that struck me was the warmth and openness of the Romanian people. Almost everywhere I went, from bustling Bucharest to quaint mountain villages, locals were quick to lend a hand. Whether it was helping me with directions or sharing stories about their culture and history, I felt welcomed in a way that made me appreciate the depth of Romania’s hospitality.
A memorable encounter happened in a small village in Maramureș, where I met an older couple who invited me into their home for a traditional meal. Communication was a bit of a challenge since they didn’t speak much English, but that didn’t stop us from connecting. We laughed, shared food, and exchanged stories through gestures and smiles. It was these spontaneous moments that made me feel like I was truly experiencing Romania.
Culinary Surprises at Every Turn
Romanian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, and I found myself constantly surprised by the diversity of dishes and flavors. While dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled sausages) were familiar, it was the less-known delicacies that left a lasting impression.
One dish I wasn’t expecting to enjoy as much was ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup). The combination of sourness from vinegar and creaminess from sour cream made it unique, and surprisingly delicious. I also loved papanași, a Romanian dessert made from fried doughnuts topped with sour cream and jam. The blend of sweet and tangy flavors was unforgettable, and it quickly became a favorite.
In Bucharest, I ventured into a few local markets and found fresh, seasonal fruits, handmade cheeses, and locally produced wines. The freshness of the produce and the pride of the vendors made shopping in these markets a cultural experience in itself. Trying țuică, a traditional plum brandy, was another culinary adventure; while it may not be for everyone, it’s a must-try for anyone wanting a real taste of Romanian traditions.
Exploring Romania’s Hidden Treasures
From historic castles to picturesque landscapes, Romania is a treasure trove of scenic and cultural experiences. Visiting Corvin Castle, a Gothic marvel in Hunedoara, felt like stepping into a fairy tale, with its towering walls, winding corridors, and legends of hauntings. The Carpathian Mountains, meanwhile, were a hiker’s dream—peaceful trails, wildflowers, and breathtaking views around every corner.
But it’s not only about the famous sights; the lesser-known areas like Alba Iulia Citadel or the Apuseni Mountains also had their own unique charm. Alba Iulia, for instance, is rich with history and feels like a living museum. The fortified citadel was a joy to explore, and watching the changing of the guards in traditional costumes gave me a sense of Romanian pride and heritage.
The Not-So-Great Moments: Petty Theft and Service Issues
Of course, no trip is perfect, and there were a few less pleasant experiences along the way. In Bucharest, I had a minor brush with petty crime when my phone was stolen from a café. While it was frustrating, the staff and other customers were quick to offer help, and I appreciated the support. Unfortunately, petty theft is a reality in many big cities, so I’d recommend being vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
On a few occasions, I also encountered less-than-stellar service, particularly in some smaller establishments where the concept of “customer service” seemed a bit lacking. For example, in one restaurant, the staff seemed more interested in chatting among themselves than attending to customers. Though these experiences were rare, they did remind me that service quality can vary quite a bit in Romania. While it didn’t spoil my trip, it’s something to keep in mind for travelers who are used to more consistent service.
The Primus Trans Fiasco
However, the most frustrating part of my trip was my experience with Primus Trans, a transfer service I had booked well in advance to pick me up from Bucharest Airport. Their website primustrans.com seemed professional, with promises of reliable and punctual transfer service, also reviews are all glossy in the internet. I made the booking thinking it would save me from the hassle of haggling with taxis or dealing with unpredictable rideshares.
When I arrived at the airport in Bucharest, I expected to see my driver holding a sign with my name. Instead, there was no one from Primus Trans to be found. I waited for a few minutes, thinking they might be delayed, but after 20 minutes, I started to worry. I called the number provided, and the man who answered sounded more annoyed than apologetic. His response was, “They’ll be there soon.” I waited another 20 minutes, but still no sign of anyone. Frustrated, I called back, and this time, his advice was to just take a public taxi, promising I’d be refunded later.
Feeling stranded and increasingly irritated, I finally flagged down a taxi and made my way to the hotel. This lack of professionalism and accountability from Primus Trans left a sour taste, especially since it was one of my first interactions upon arriving. I would caution anyone considering Primus Trans to have a backup plan, as their service fell far short of what was promised, almost scam-like I would dare to say.
Reflecting on the Journey
Despite the few hiccups, my trip to Romania was filled with memorable moments that I’ll cherish. The people, the food, and the stunning landscapes made it a journey well worth taking. Romania has a spirit of resilience and warmth that shines through, even when things don’t go quite as planned.
For anyone thinking of visiting, I would say go with an open mind and a sense of adventure. Romania may surprise you with its contrasts and its hidden beauty. And while there may be challenges, the positives far outweigh the negatives. In my next post, I’ll delve deeper into some of the travel tips and warnings, so future travelers can make the most of their Romanian adventure while avoiding some of the pitfalls I encountered.