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Advice

…From Seasoned Travellers

Passports and Visas:

You need a full passport with, at least six months’ validity left on it, in order to enter Romania. Holders of EU and USA passports no longer need a visa to enter Romania as tourists. Holders of other passports must check with their nearest Romanian embassy.

Electricity:

Romania uses the European 220 volt, 2-pin (round pin) system. Bring adapters with you as they are hard to find here.

Money:

Prices of drinks, refreshments, traditional craftware and souvenirs are remarkably low, and many things are included in your tour price. Bring Euro (the best currency to bring), GB Sterling, or US Dollars these can be changed in banks easily. Avoid old, worn, damaged, and written-on notes – even notes with a tiny tear along the edge – as these are often refused. Your passport will be needed when exchanging money and you must keep the receipt.

Things to pack:

In spring and summer, sun cream, a good insect repellent, and a sun hat are essential. We also suggest you carry either toilet roll or tissues.
It can be cool in the hills and mountains, even in summer, and it can snow on the highest peaks even in August! Equally summer temperatures can often exceed 35 degrees Celsius. Bring easy practical clothing, a warm pullover, one pair of jeans or warm trousers and a waterproof/windproof jacket. Walking boots or strong shoes (well worn with good ankle support) and a small towel are also recommended. You may not find washing, drying, or ironing facilities.

More Money:

Travellers’ cheques are generally NOT accepted in Romania except in some banks. Credit cards are becoming more widely recognised in Romania but not in the villages. There is an extensive network of cash-point machines in most towns and cities that give Romanian money and accept VISA, Mastercard, Link, & Cirrus. You MUST have your PIN number for all cards.

Health:

Bring all medicines and essential toiletries with you. It is advisable to check with your GP prior to undertaking the trip particularly with regard to ensuring any vaccine requirements are up to date.

It is recommended that you bring a spare pair of glasses or contact lenses, should you wear them. Contact lens solution is only available at ‘Optica’ in the major towns. UK travellers should ensure that they have their European Health Insurance Card. Find out more at www.nhs.uk/EHIC/Pages/About.aspx. It is also recommended to have valid travel insurance.

Photography:

Don’t forget your camera – you will find a wealth of interesting subjects! Camera batteries can be hard to find outside the major towns – it is best to bring what you need. Digital memory cards are widely available in the major cities. If you are using film, bring plenty – you’ll need it! Print film can be found in most towns, but it is cheaper to buy before you leave home.

Tipping:

It is normal in Romania to give a tip (around 10%, or round-up price to nearest round figure) for meals and drinks at restaurants and bars, for taxis and drivers, and it is nice to leave a small gift for families you stay with.

Waste:

The simple places in which you may be staying generate hardly any waste -paper, plastic, etc. Almost everything is re-used or burnt. Ask your hosts what they can re-use or recycle. Try to reduce your waste or take it with you when you leave.

Some of this advice has been adapted from information supplied by Colin Shaw of Roving Romania. Colin provides tailor made tours of Romania by land rover, including Tarnava Mare.

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