Romania
May 30th 2007, 4:47 am
#1
Guest
Posts: n/a
Romania
Hi folks --
I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
and cheese.
Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
and explore the city more?
My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
"folk art" and local stuff.
The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
Thanks for any help,
Sarah
I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
and cheese.
Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
and explore the city more?
My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
"folk art" and local stuff.
The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
Thanks for any help,
Sarah
May 30th 2007, 5:58 am
#2
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
On 30 May, 18:47, "Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Hi folks --
>
> I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
> either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
> Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
> to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
>
> I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
> itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
> my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
> euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
> Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
> they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
> in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
> and cheese.
>
> Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
> anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
> days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
> and explore the city more?
>
> My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
> cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
> "folk art" and local stuff.
>
> The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
> (the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>
> Thanks for any help,
>
> Sarah
You'll be needing some of these
http://www.romaniatourism.com/monasteries.html
Bucharest is not a place to stay long, (keep your money hidden, and
dont show any Policeman your dollars !)
I do remember eating good Lebanese food there though.
I guess you'll be in Sighisoara to see Dracula.
> Hi folks --
>
> I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
> either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
> Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
> to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
>
> I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
> itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
> my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
> euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
> Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
> they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
> in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
> and cheese.
>
> Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
> anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
> days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
> and explore the city more?
>
> My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
> cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
> "folk art" and local stuff.
>
> The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
> (the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>
> Thanks for any help,
>
> Sarah
You'll be needing some of these
http://www.romaniatourism.com/monasteries.html
Bucharest is not a place to stay long, (keep your money hidden, and
dont show any Policeman your dollars !)
I do remember eating good Lebanese food there though.
I guess you'll be in Sighisoara to see Dracula.
May 30th 2007, 6:02 am
#3
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
On Wed, 30 May 2007 12:47:08 -0400, Sarah Banick wrote:
> Hi folks --
>
> I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
> either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
> Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
> to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
>
> I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
> itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
> my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
> euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
> Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
> they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
> in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
> and cheese.
>
> Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
> anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
> days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
> and explore the city more?
Easy. 4 hours by train (more or less hourly) from Gara de Nord fto
Constanta. Bucharest is quite interesting but not worth 4 days.
The Danube delta is worth a few days exploration. Short tours can easily be
arranged with tour operators in Bucharest..
> My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
> cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
> "folk art" and local stuff.
>
> The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
> (the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>
> Thanks for any help,
>
> Sarah
> Hi folks --
>
> I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
> either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
> Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
> to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
>
> I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
> itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
> my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
> euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
> Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
> they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
> in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
> and cheese.
>
> Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
> anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
> days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
> and explore the city more?
Easy. 4 hours by train (more or less hourly) from Gara de Nord fto
Constanta. Bucharest is quite interesting but not worth 4 days.
The Danube delta is worth a few days exploration. Short tours can easily be
arranged with tour operators in Bucharest..
> My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
> cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
> "folk art" and local stuff.
>
> The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
> (the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>
> Thanks for any help,
>
> Sarah
May 30th 2007, 7:44 am
#4
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
>
> You'll be needing some of these
> http://www.romaniatourism.com/monasteries.html
>
> Bucharest is not a place to stay long, (keep your money hidden, and
> dont show any Policeman your dollars !)
> I do remember eating good Lebanese food there though.
>
> I guess you'll be in Sighisoara to see Dracula.
>
Thanks -- The Romanian tourism bureau in New York is sending me some info.
Even with the Internet, there's nothing like a good map!
You mean money in general, not dollars, right?
And yes, we'll be Sighisoara.
and:
Sibiu
Medias
Fargaras
Brasov
and other places on the way. Those are just the places we'll spend the
night.
Is there anything special I shouldn't miss in those places (beyond the
obvious stuff the tour guide will show us)? Shops, restaurants,
pubs/bars/cafes?
Sarah
> You'll be needing some of these
> http://www.romaniatourism.com/monasteries.html
>
> Bucharest is not a place to stay long, (keep your money hidden, and
> dont show any Policeman your dollars !)
> I do remember eating good Lebanese food there though.
>
> I guess you'll be in Sighisoara to see Dracula.
>
Thanks -- The Romanian tourism bureau in New York is sending me some info.
Even with the Internet, there's nothing like a good map!
You mean money in general, not dollars, right?
And yes, we'll be Sighisoara.
and:
Sibiu
Medias
Fargaras
Brasov
and other places on the way. Those are just the places we'll spend the
night.
Is there anything special I shouldn't miss in those places (beyond the
obvious stuff the tour guide will show us)? Shops, restaurants,
pubs/bars/cafes?
Sarah
May 30th 2007, 8:05 am
#5
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
"Gerald Oliver Swift" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> On Wed, 30 May 2007 12:47:08 -0400, Sarah Banick wrote:
>
>> Hi folks --
>>
>>>>
>> Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
>> anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
>> days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on
>> that
>> and explore the city more?
>
> Easy. 4 hours by train (more or less hourly) from Gara de Nord fto
> Constanta. Bucharest is quite interesting but not worth 4 days.
> The Danube delta is worth a few days exploration. Short tours can easily
> be
> arranged with tour operators in Bucharest..
>
Great, thanks! I've been trying to take a bike tour of the Danube Delta for
several years now -- the company always advertises it on their website, but
they never get enough riders to make a tour. I wish I had more time to see
the rest of the country, but it's the vicious cycle of freelancing -- I
travel, I don't make money...
Sarah
news:[email protected]...
> On Wed, 30 May 2007 12:47:08 -0400, Sarah Banick wrote:
>
>> Hi folks --
>>
>>>>
>> Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
>> anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
>> days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on
>> that
>> and explore the city more?
>
> Easy. 4 hours by train (more or less hourly) from Gara de Nord fto
> Constanta. Bucharest is quite interesting but not worth 4 days.
> The Danube delta is worth a few days exploration. Short tours can easily
> be
> arranged with tour operators in Bucharest..
>
Great, thanks! I've been trying to take a bike tour of the Danube Delta for
several years now -- the company always advertises it on their website, but
they never get enough riders to make a tour. I wish I had more time to see
the rest of the country, but it's the vicious cycle of freelancing -- I
travel, I don't make money...
Sarah
May 30th 2007, 8:45 am
#6
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
On 30 May, 21:44, "Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> wrote:
> > You'll be needing some of these
> >http://www.romaniatourism.com/monasteries.html
>
> > Bucharest is not a place to stay long, (keep your money hidden, and
> > dont show any Policeman your dollars !)
> > I do remember eating good Lebanese food there though.
>
> > I guess you'll be in Sighisoara to see Dracula.
>
> Thanks -- The Romanian tourism bureau in New York is sending me some info.
> Even with the Internet, there's nothing like a good map!
>
> You mean money in general, not dollars, right?
>
The scam was getting some kid to ask you if you wanted hash, then the
(real) Police would magically arrive, and accuse you of trying buy
drugs. This then turned into checking our $'s for counterfeit notes.
Just say no.
Outside of Bucharest the people were 3rd on my list of friendlies
after Syria and Mexico.
> > You'll be needing some of these
> >http://www.romaniatourism.com/monasteries.html
>
> > Bucharest is not a place to stay long, (keep your money hidden, and
> > dont show any Policeman your dollars !)
> > I do remember eating good Lebanese food there though.
>
> > I guess you'll be in Sighisoara to see Dracula.
>
> Thanks -- The Romanian tourism bureau in New York is sending me some info.
> Even with the Internet, there's nothing like a good map!
>
> You mean money in general, not dollars, right?
>
The scam was getting some kid to ask you if you wanted hash, then the
(real) Police would magically arrive, and accuse you of trying buy
drugs. This then turned into checking our $'s for counterfeit notes.
Just say no.
Outside of Bucharest the people were 3rd on my list of friendlies
after Syria and Mexico.
May 30th 2007, 10:34 am
#7
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
Make credence recognised that on Wed, 30 May 2007 12:47:08 -0400,
"Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> has scripted:
>Hi folks --
>
>I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
>either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
>Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
>to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
>
>I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
>itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
>my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
>euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
>Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
>they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
>in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
>and cheese.
>
>Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
>anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
>days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
>and explore the city more?
>
>My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
>cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
>"folk art" and local stuff.
>
>The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
>(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>
>Thanks for any help,
>
>Sarah
>
>
"Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> has scripted:
>Hi folks --
>
>I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
>either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
>Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
>to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
>
>I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
>itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
>my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
>euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
>Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
>they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
>in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
>and cheese.
>
>Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
>anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
>days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
>and explore the city more?
>
>My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
>cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
>"folk art" and local stuff.
>
>The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
>(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>
>Thanks for any help,
>
>Sarah
>
>
May 30th 2007, 10:47 am
#8
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
Make credence recognised that on Wed, 30 May 2007 12:47:08 -0400,
"Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> has scripted:
>Hi folks --
Damn, I think I sent an empty post!
>I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
>either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
>Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
>to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
Damn right I have! And I loved the place, for better or worse.
>I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
>itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
>my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
>euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
>Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
>they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
>in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
>and cheese.
I travelled with a vegetarian, and she survived. Dairy food is
available anywhere, but I don't know about the rennet situation.
Also, variety isn't great in Romania. Most likely you'll be limited to
a number of dishes that are very samey. Quality is ok, but variety is
lacking.
>Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
>anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
>days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
>and explore the city more?
Well, I haven't seen the city for a few years, but I also have heard
precisely nothing about the supposed improvements that were taking
place. From this I can only assume it's still a shithole, and you
should get out, whilst you still have time to make up your mind about
the country.
>My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
>cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
>"folk art" and local stuff.
Watching people over a beer... now that's my language! It's good
anywhere in Romania, but remember that you will hate as much as you
like. The place has a language that's at the saddest end of latin
you've ever heard.
>The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
>(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
Lonely Planet is useful, but don't buy into their paranoia. Nor that
or the other guide books.
Romania is awesome, if you can deal with it's rough edges. I've just
gotta get back there...
--
---
DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
---
--
"Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> has scripted:
>Hi folks --
Damn, I think I sent an empty post!
>I'm finally making my way to Romania this September (from the US). It was
>either that or Bulgaria, and the Frequent Flyer points couldn't get me to
>Bulgaria at the right time. I've just started my research, but I would love
>to hear anyone's experience and advice. I know DFM has been there.
Damn right I have! And I loved the place, for better or worse.
>I'm taking a (guided) bicycle tour of southern Transylvania, so that
>itinerary is pretty much set, including B&Bs. But I'll have several days on
>my own in Bucharest. It looks like I can find a two-star hotel for 30 to 40
>euros, and cheap is my theme, so if anyone has a recommendations, fire away.
>Restaurants, also -- I don't eat meat, but I do eat fish and dairy. I hope
>they have good cheese in Romania, 'cause I'm usually stuck eating it a lot
>in Europe (no complaints though). I'll settle for anywhere I can get pasta
>and cheese.
I travelled with a vegetarian, and she survived. Dairy food is
available anywhere, but I don't know about the rennet situation.
Also, variety isn't great in Romania. Most likely you'll be limited to
a number of dishes that are very samey. Quality is ok, but variety is
lacking.
>Also, I've heard a lot of negative comments on Bucharest in the past. Can
>anyone recommend a good day trip from the city? I only have three or four
>days...how hard is it to get to the coast, or should I just give up on that
>and explore the city more?
Well, I haven't seen the city for a few years, but I also have heard
precisely nothing about the supposed improvements that were taking
place. From this I can only assume it's still a shithole, and you
should get out, whilst you still have time to make up your mind about
the country.
>My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
>cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
>"folk art" and local stuff.
Watching people over a beer... now that's my language! It's good
anywhere in Romania, but remember that you will hate as much as you
like. The place has a language that's at the saddest end of latin
you've ever heard.
>The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
>(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
Lonely Planet is useful, but don't buy into their paranoia. Nor that
or the other guide books.
Romania is awesome, if you can deal with it's rough edges. I've just
gotta get back there...
--
---
DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
---
--
May 30th 2007, 10:49 am
#9
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
Make credence recognised that on 30 May 2007 13:45:57 -0700, Hank
Pfister <[email protected]> has scripted:
>On 30 May, 21:44, "Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> wrote:
>> > You'll be needing some of these
>> >http://www.romaniatourism.com/monasteries.html
>>
>> > Bucharest is not a place to stay long, (keep your money hidden, and
>> > dont show any Policeman your dollars !)
>> > I do remember eating good Lebanese food there though.
>>
>> > I guess you'll be in Sighisoara to see Dracula.
>>
>> Thanks -- The Romanian tourism bureau in New York is sending me some info.
>> Even with the Internet, there's nothing like a good map!
>>
>> You mean money in general, not dollars, right?
>>
>The scam was getting some kid to ask you if you wanted hash, then the
>(real) Police would magically arrive, and accuse you of trying buy
>drugs. This then turned into checking our $'s for counterfeit notes.
>Just say no.
>
>Outside of Bucharest the people were 3rd on my list of friendlies
>after Syria and Mexico.
In Sighisoara, the locals offered me apples because they had too many.
I agree with your sentiment entirely.
--
---
DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
---
--
Pfister <[email protected]> has scripted:
>On 30 May, 21:44, "Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> wrote:
>> > You'll be needing some of these
>> >http://www.romaniatourism.com/monasteries.html
>>
>> > Bucharest is not a place to stay long, (keep your money hidden, and
>> > dont show any Policeman your dollars !)
>> > I do remember eating good Lebanese food there though.
>>
>> > I guess you'll be in Sighisoara to see Dracula.
>>
>> Thanks -- The Romanian tourism bureau in New York is sending me some info.
>> Even with the Internet, there's nothing like a good map!
>>
>> You mean money in general, not dollars, right?
>>
>The scam was getting some kid to ask you if you wanted hash, then the
>(real) Police would magically arrive, and accuse you of trying buy
>drugs. This then turned into checking our $'s for counterfeit notes.
>Just say no.
>
>Outside of Bucharest the people were 3rd on my list of friendlies
>after Syria and Mexico.
In Sighisoara, the locals offered me apples because they had too many.
I agree with your sentiment entirely.
--
---
DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
---
--
May 30th 2007, 3:08 pm
#10
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
>
> Watching people over a beer... now that's my language! It's good
> anywhere in Romania, but remember that you will hate as much as you
> like. The place has a language that's at the saddest end of latin
> you've ever heard.
>
>>The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
>>(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>
> Lonely Planet is useful, but don't buy into their paranoia. Nor that
> or the other guide books.
>
> Romania is awesome, if you can deal with it's rough edges. I've just
> gotta get back there...
> --
> ---
> DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
> ---
> --
What's the paranoia about? As long as I'm physically safe, I don't mind
rough edges. I'm trapped in the generic first world enough of the time. Any
other guide books, or just books, you'd recommend?
> Watching people over a beer... now that's my language! It's good
> anywhere in Romania, but remember that you will hate as much as you
> like. The place has a language that's at the saddest end of latin
> you've ever heard.
>
>>The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
>>(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>
> Lonely Planet is useful, but don't buy into their paranoia. Nor that
> or the other guide books.
>
> Romania is awesome, if you can deal with it's rough edges. I've just
> gotta get back there...
> --
> ---
> DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
> ---
> --
What's the paranoia about? As long as I'm physically safe, I don't mind
rough edges. I'm trapped in the generic first world enough of the time. Any
other guide books, or just books, you'd recommend?
May 30th 2007, 7:34 pm
#11
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
On 31 May, 00:47, Deeply Filled Mortician
<deepfreudmoors@eITmISaACTUALLYiREAL!l.nu> wrote:
> Make credence recognised that on Wed, 30 May 2007 12:47:08 -0400,
> "Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> has scripted:
>
> >Hi folks --
>
> Damn, I think I sent an empty post!
>
are you nuts etc.... etc....
<deepfreudmoors@eITmISaACTUALLYiREAL!l.nu> wrote:
> Make credence recognised that on Wed, 30 May 2007 12:47:08 -0400,
> "Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> has scripted:
>
> >Hi folks --
>
> Damn, I think I sent an empty post!
>
are you nuts etc.... etc....
May 30th 2007, 8:20 pm
#12
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
On 30 mayo, 18:47, "Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
> cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
> "folk art" and local stuff.
>
Bucharest has pretty much nothing to offer. The run-down French-style
buildings from late XIX century and the monumental communist
architecture around Piata Unirii can keep you entertained for a day or
so. The farmer museum can be kind of interesting, too.
Check for the Danube delta or the painted monasteries and shepherd
villages in Moldova (that's the Romanian region bordering the country
called Moldova), the monasteries are stunning and still not in the
main tourist circuits.
J.
>
> My interests, besides cycling, are history, architecture, good food,
> cultural stuff...and people watching over a beer or wine. I like to shop for
> "folk art" and local stuff.
>
Bucharest has pretty much nothing to offer. The run-down French-style
buildings from late XIX century and the monumental communist
architecture around Piata Unirii can keep you entertained for a day or
so. The farmer museum can be kind of interesting, too.
Check for the Danube delta or the painted monasteries and shepherd
villages in Moldova (that's the Romanian region bordering the country
called Moldova), the monasteries are stunning and still not in the
main tourist circuits.
J.
May 30th 2007, 8:26 pm
#13
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
On 31 Mai, 05:08, "Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> wrote:
> What's the paranoia about? As long as I'm physically safe, I don't mind
> rough edges. I'm trapped in the generic first world enough of the time. Any
> other guide books, or just books, you'd recommend?
I see that Lonely Planet is mentioned. I once planned to include
Moldova (together with Romania in the same guide) and can confirm it
is quite ok. As I looked for a guide on Moldova, I didn't have much of
a choice campared with what you can expect to find on Romania though.
I would recommend you to have a look at Bradt (much better than Lonely
Planet on Ukraine, but Bradt does not cover as many countries and is
more uneven from country to country than Lonely Planet). I would also
checked out if there is a Rough Guide for Romania. My Impression of
Insight (I have both Lonely Planet and Insight on Russia) is that they
are quite good on the background part, but gives substantially less on
specific advice on accomondation, things to do and see etc.
Jan
> What's the paranoia about? As long as I'm physically safe, I don't mind
> rough edges. I'm trapped in the generic first world enough of the time. Any
> other guide books, or just books, you'd recommend?
I see that Lonely Planet is mentioned. I once planned to include
Moldova (together with Romania in the same guide) and can confirm it
is quite ok. As I looked for a guide on Moldova, I didn't have much of
a choice campared with what you can expect to find on Romania though.
I would recommend you to have a look at Bradt (much better than Lonely
Planet on Ukraine, but Bradt does not cover as many countries and is
more uneven from country to country than Lonely Planet). I would also
checked out if there is a Rough Guide for Romania. My Impression of
Insight (I have both Lonely Planet and Insight on Russia) is that they
are quite good on the background part, but gives substantially less on
specific advice on accomondation, things to do and see etc.
Jan
May 30th 2007, 9:11 pm
#14
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
Make credence recognised that on Wed, 30 May 2007 23:08:05 -0400,
"Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> has scripted:
>
>>
>> Watching people over a beer... now that's my language! It's good
>> anywhere in Romania, but remember that you will hate as much as you
>> like. The place has a language that's at the saddest end of latin
>> you've ever heard.
>>
>>>The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
>>>(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>>
>> Lonely Planet is useful, but don't buy into their paranoia. Nor that
>> or the other guide books.
>>
>> Romania is awesome, if you can deal with it's rough edges. I've just
>> gotta get back there...
>> --
>> ---
>> DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
>> ---
>> --
>
>What's the paranoia about? As long as I'm physically safe, I don't mind
>rough edges. I'm trapped in the generic first world enough of the time. Any
>other guide books, or just books, you'd recommend?
Well, LP warns about people being gassed in train carriages, warns
against women travelling alone, about packs of dogs, food quality and
all sorts of stuff. The guidebook is however packed with good info,
although their maps are frequently poor (or should I say 'poo'?).
There's really nothing to be especially worried about in Romania, but
do watch out for the Roma - they can be a complete pain in the arse! I
suggest taking some chocolates or somesuch to give to them instead of
money.
--
---
DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
---
--
"Sarah Banick" <[email protected]> has scripted:
>
>>
>> Watching people over a beer... now that's my language! It's good
>> anywhere in Romania, but remember that you will hate as much as you
>> like. The place has a language that's at the saddest end of latin
>> you've ever heard.
>>
>>>The 2007 Lonely Planet is coming out in June, so I'm waiting to get that
>>>(the last was 2004). Then I'm sure I'll have more specific questions.
>>
>> Lonely Planet is useful, but don't buy into their paranoia. Nor that
>> or the other guide books.
>>
>> Romania is awesome, if you can deal with it's rough edges. I've just
>> gotta get back there...
>> --
>> ---
>> DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
>> ---
>> --
>
>What's the paranoia about? As long as I'm physically safe, I don't mind
>rough edges. I'm trapped in the generic first world enough of the time. Any
>other guide books, or just books, you'd recommend?
Well, LP warns about people being gassed in train carriages, warns
against women travelling alone, about packs of dogs, food quality and
all sorts of stuff. The guidebook is however packed with good info,
although their maps are frequently poor (or should I say 'poo'?).
There's really nothing to be especially worried about in Romania, but
do watch out for the Roma - they can be a complete pain in the arse! I
suggest taking some chocolates or somesuch to give to them instead of
money.
--
---
DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
---
--
May 31st 2007, 2:23 am
#15
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Romania
>>
>>What's the paranoia about? As long as I'm physically safe, I don't mind
>>rough edges. I'm trapped in the generic first world enough of the time.
>>Any
>>other guide books, or just books, you'd recommend?
>
> Well, LP warns about people being gassed in train carriages, warns
> against women travelling alone, about packs of dogs, food quality and
> all sorts of stuff. The guidebook is however packed with good info,
> although their maps are frequently poor (or should I say 'poo'?).
>
> There's really nothing to be especially worried about in Romania, but
> do watch out for the Roma - they can be a complete pain in the arse! I
> suggest taking some chocolates or somesuch to give to them instead of
> money.
> --
> ---
> DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
> ---
> --
I'll just have to make sure my mother doesn't look through the guide before
I go! I've been to Croatia/Bosnia twice in the last five years, and she's
still worried about "the war." Even when I show her New York Times articles
touting Dalmatia as THE place to be. :-)
Chocolate -- thanks, that's a great idea...I usually take souvenir pens and
other such trinkets. Anybody know what Romanian kids like, but don't have
access to? Something I can bring from the US or pick up in Amsterdam on the
way?
Sarah
>>What's the paranoia about? As long as I'm physically safe, I don't mind
>>rough edges. I'm trapped in the generic first world enough of the time.
>>Any
>>other guide books, or just books, you'd recommend?
>
> Well, LP warns about people being gassed in train carriages, warns
> against women travelling alone, about packs of dogs, food quality and
> all sorts of stuff. The guidebook is however packed with good info,
> although their maps are frequently poor (or should I say 'poo'?).
>
> There's really nothing to be especially worried about in Romania, but
> do watch out for the Roma - they can be a complete pain in the arse! I
> suggest taking some chocolates or somesuch to give to them instead of
> money.
> --
> ---
> DFM - http://www.deepfriedmars.com
> ---
> --
I'll just have to make sure my mother doesn't look through the guide before
I go! I've been to Croatia/Bosnia twice in the last five years, and she's
still worried about "the war." Even when I show her New York Times articles
touting Dalmatia as THE place to be. :-)
Chocolate -- thanks, that's a great idea...I usually take souvenir pens and
other such trinkets. Anybody know what Romanian kids like, but don't have
access to? Something I can bring from the US or pick up in Amsterdam on the
way?
Sarah
