Bucharest didn't feel welcoming to me, although there are plenty of things to do and see. I love Romania personally, though, and have considered it one of my 5 "oh snap, run!" places to emigrate to if things go sideways here in the US.
If you have the time to unwind, Constanta was great when we were there (2008) -- inexpensive for lodging ($40/nite for the western 3 star hotel with water view), and there is an irish pub right on the beach, owned by a french chef, where $20 for a couple will get you amazing food and wine and live music every night -- the topless beach in summer is also a treat, for when you don't get caught looking (and $10 for beer and lunch at the same place has a commanding view)
I found Cluj Napoca much more inviting, I can't explain why, the vibe of the town was more to my liking.
I understand a lot of people do the whole "Vlad's castle" tour -- I skipped that, but regret doing so. I even have fond memories of the stupid touristy stuff I do, so I'll be checking it out next time I'm there.
I had a gypsy child hit me up for food with the sad eyes at a market. I bought him a loaf of bread. He ate it and waited for me to leave. When I looked back, he had tossed the loaf in the trash and went back to busking. I should've taken a 2x4 to that little dog's ass.
If you have a car, the drives among all the sunflowers in the country are really spirit-lifting. There are no services on the back roads, and the country only has one damn highway. By no services, I mean no restroom, fuel, lunch stops, or hotels. nada. Plan accordingly.
The translations of rural restaurants that bother with english menus are hilarious. Most don't. When in doubt, I buy the most expensive thing on the menu (seldom > $3) -- because if I'm going to get roasted goat scrotum for my meal, I want it to be the best possible example that I can order.
$0.02
- Mike
