|Preface Last Updated: 6/16/2005
Romania is a country of contradictions. Horse-drawn carts jostle
for space with speeding cars whose drivers are talking money on
mobile phones, and farmers watch television via satellite dishes
standing in the back yard of their 19th century farmhouses.
Romania has majestic castles, medieval towns, wildlife, and the
inexpensive ski resorts common in much of the "undiscovered" former
Eastern bloc. You will be astonished to discover how different from
the rest of Europe Romania is, but you will almost certainly see
signs that it is determinedly pursuing the Western ideal.
The Dacian and Getae tribes first settled the Carpathian-Balkan
region more than two thousand years ago. Until the final Roman
conquest of the area in 105-106 A.D., the Dacians lived mostly in
the mountains and the Transylvanian plateau, while the Getae lived
in the Danube Plain. Rome then created the province of Dacia and
Latinized the region. The inhabitants continued their existence as
farmers and shepherds even after the withdrawal of the Roman army
and administration around 271 A.D.
By the 10th century, small Romanian states had emerged and
evolved into the principalities of Moldavia, Wallachia, and
Transylvania. The Magyars spread into Transylvania and, by the 13th
century, it had become an autonomous principality under the
Before Transylvania fell to Ottoman control in 1541, Walachia and
Moldavia offered strong resistance to Turkish expansionism. The
Hapsburg Empire annexed Transylvania from the Ottoman Empire in
1699, and it remained under Austro-Hungarian control until Romania
was proclaimed a kingdom in 1881, under King Carol I.
In 1918, during the reign of Ferdinand I, who had succeeded King
Carol I, Transylvania, Bessarabia and Bucovina were united with the
rest of Romania.
Carol II, who had succeeded his father Ferdinand I to the throne,
declared a royal dictatorship in 1938. In 1940, Romania was forced
to cede northwestern Transylvania to Hungary by order of Germany and
Italy. For much of World War II, the country was governed by Marshal
Ion Antonescu and allied with the Axis powers. In August 1944, King
Michael had Antonescu arrested and declared war on Germany. In
September 1944, Romania surrendered unconditionally to the Allied
Powers’ representative, the Soviet Union, and officially entered the
war on the Allied side.
After the war, the Soviets engineered the return of Transylvania
to Romania. King Michael was then forced to abdicate and the
People's Republic of Romania was proclaimed in December 1947.
Romania’s brand of communism was among the most brutal of Eastern
Europe, incorporating the ruthless use of forced labor, forced
relocation and internment in prison camps. Many dissidents died as a
result of harsh treatment.
In the late 1960s, Romania began to distance itself from Moscow,
pursuing an independent foreign policy under Dictator Nicolae
Ceausescu (1965-89). If his foreign policy was skillful, his
domestic policy was inept and megalomaniacal. His Securitate (secret
police) kept the populace in check, recruiting a vast network of
informers, and creating a pervasive climate of fear and distrust.
Romanians, especially urban residents, suffered from severe
hardships in the late 1980's, including regular power blackouts,
shortages of food and basic amenities, and lack of adequate heat
during the coldest months of the year. Indeed, a popular Bucharest
joke in the 1980's ran: "What do you do in the winter when your
apartment is cold?" Answer: "Open the window."
After the collapse of communism in the rest of Eastern Europe in
the late summer and fall of 1989, a country-wide series of protests
against the communist regime of brutal dictator Nicolae Ceausescu
swept the dictator from power in December 1989. About 1,500 people
were killed in confused street fighting and Ceausescu and his wife
were executed on December 25, 1989 for “crimes against the state,”
after a hasty “trial,” which many analysts believe was engineered to
prevent the dictator and his wife from implicating prominent
individuals. The Communist Party was dissolved and its assets
transferred to the state. Ceausescu's most unpopular measures, such
as bans on private commercial entities and independent political
activity, were repealed.
Over 200 new political parties sprang up after 1989, gravitating
around personalities rather than programs. Unhappy with the
continued political and economic influence of members of the
Ceausescu-era elite, anti-communist protesters camped in University
Square in April 1990. Members of the government associated with the
old communist administration appear to have encouraged the descent
of thousands of coal miners on Bucharest. Once there, they rioted
and indulged in other acts of violence against the demonstrating
students and protestors, causing the collapse of the government.
Parliament drafted a new democratic constitution, approved by
popular referendum in December 1991.
Romania then began looking west to establish new relationships
and allies. Romania was the first country to enroll in the NATO
Partnership for Peace program. Romania supported the NATO bombing of
Serbia in the late 1990s. NATO member states invited Romania to join
the Alliance in 2002, based on Romania's rapid progress in
modernizing its armed forces and its contributions to allied
peacekeeping and other military operations. Romania officially
became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization on March
29, 2004 after depositing its instruments of treaty ratification in
Today, Romania has established itself as a democratic, westward
focused country which aims to integrate into the European Union
while maintaining close ties with the United States. After
concluding pre-accession negotiations with the European Union in
December 2004, Romania signed the accession treaty in April 2005.
This treaty promises membership on January 1, 2007, although in
contains a clause that allows for a one year postponement if Romania
does not make sufficient progress on corruption, competition, and
These changes have given the Romanian people cause for hope, as
they cautiously place their faith in promised future opportunities
in their own country.
As a people, the Romanians are extremely hospitable. They will
welcome you warmly into their homes, and may serve you a feast that
might otherwise have kept their family for many days, expecting
nothing in return other than friendship.
The Host Country
Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 6/16/2005 6:48 AM
The Republic of Romania is the 12th largest country in Europe. It
occupies the greater part of the lower basin of the Danube River
system and the hilly eastern regions of the middle Danube Basin. Its
91,700 square miles make it similar in size to the United Kingdom
and the State of Oregon. Some consider Romania to be a “Latin
Island,” because it is bordered by two seas: the Black Sea which
provides Romania with its 150 miles of coastline, and the
metaphorical “sea” of non-Latin countries by which it is otherwise
surrounded, comprised of Bulgaria to the south, Yugoslavia to the
west, Hungary to the northwest, and Moldova and the Ukraine to the
east and north.
Romania’s topography consists of nearly equal parts mountains,
plains, hills, and plateaus. Romania is situated in and around part
of the rugged Carpathian mountain chain.
Romania has a continental climate, particularly in the Old
Kingdom (east and south of the Carpathians). A long and occasionally
harsh winter (December-March), a hot summer (May-August), and a
prolonged autumn (September-November) are the principal seasons. The
average daily minimum temperature for Bucharest during the winter
(February) is 28.6ºF, and the average daily maximum in the summer
(August) is 95ºF. Rainfall, which is heaviest from April through
July, averages 5 inches in June. Bucharest’s climate is similar to
that of New York City.
Population Last Updated: 6/16/2005 6:48 AM
Romanians consider themselves descendants of ancient Dacians and
their conquerors, the Romans. After the Roman occupation and
colonization (A.D. 106-271), the Goths, Huns, Slavs, Magyars, Turks,
and other invaders each influenced the population. The ethnic
Romanians consider themselves to be descendants of the ancient
Dacian people and their conquerors, the Romans. The ethnic Romanian population (about 89%) prides itself
on roots traced back to their Thracian, Celtic and Latin-speaking
Roman ancestors. Their Roman origin and Latin culture distinguishes
Romanians from their Slavic and Hungarian neighbors. The remaining
percentage of the population consists of Hungarians, Germans, Slavs,
Jews, Roma, Tartars, and Turks. Emigration has drastically reduced
the Jewish and ethnic German populations. As of March 2004, the
total population of Romania was roughly 21.7 million.
Romanian law is nondiscriminatory toward minorities, and the
government allows them cultural and linguistic freedom. The concept
of Romania as a unitary national state, however, runs deep among
ethnic Romanians and occasionally manifests as tension with minority
Religious affiliations follow ethnic lines, with about 87% of all
Romanians belonging, at least nominally, to the Romanian Orthodox
Church. Many who were Greek Catholics (Uniates) are returning to
that church. Roman Catholics constitute about 6% of the population,
and the remaining population includes Calvinists, Lutherans,
Baptists, Pentecostals, Seventh-day Adventists, and Jews.
Public Institutions Last Updated: 6/16/2005 6:48 AM
Romania ceased being a Socialist Republic in 1990, following the
December 1989 overthrow and execution of former dictator Nicolae
Ceausescu. Since then, the country’s institutions have been in a
continual process of reorganization. This includes the new
constitution, which was ratified on December 8, 1991 and most
recently amended in 2004.
The transitional government, which replaced the Communist
dictatorship that had controlled Romania since the end of World War
II, renamed the country Romania (it had previously been the People’s
Republic of Romania). It also proclaimed its support for multiparty
democracy, a republican form of government, a tripartite separation
of powers, a free market, and the observance of fundamental human
Romania has subsequently held four national elections, changing
the governing bloc three times.
The bicameral parliament consists of a 119-member Senate and a
397-member Chamber of Deputies. The national legislature is elected
on a proportional representation, party-list system through a
universal, secret ballot. The Chamber of Deputies also includes 12
appointed members to represent the national minorities who do not
win an elective seat in Parliament.
Romania's chief of state is the President, who is elected by
universal, direct, and secret voting by all citizens over the age of
18. Once elected, he must sever ties with any party or political
organization. Decrees issued by the President, including
ratification of treaties, promulgation of laws, and declarations of
war and states of emergency, must be countersigned by the Prime
The President, with the approval of both houses of Parliament,
currently appoints the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister may
appoint and dismiss the members of his cabinet. Appointments are
subject to approval by both houses of Parliament. The central
government appoints prefects who serve as the executive branch
representatives in each of the country’s 40 counties and in
Bucharest. Cities, towns, and other municipalities have elected
mayors and councils.
The President appoints the members of the Supreme Court and the
Prosecutor General, with Senate approval. The Supreme Court is the
highest court of appeal, while the Constitutional Court has the
authority to rule on the constitutionality of the legislation. The
Prosecutor General is the chief public prosecutor. The Prosecutor
General's office is divided into civil and military jurisdictions,
and each of the country’s counties has its own prosecutor, subject
to the Prosecutor General. In 2002, the Government also established
a National Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s office to prosecute major
Primary law enforcement rests in the hands of the national police
force, which investigates common crimes, patrols populated areas,
and controls traffic. Each county has its own police precinct,
located in the county capital, which supervises the activities of
police constables stationed in every sizable town. There are eight
precincts in Bucharest, with a chief of police maintaining overall
supervision. The national gendarmerie, under the control of the
Ministry of Interior, is a uniformed, paramilitary force that is
deployed in situations beyond the control of local police, such as
riot control. The gendarmerie also provides security for diplomatic
embassies and facilities, as well as for economically significant
industrial installations. The Ministry of Interior delegates
counter-narcotics responsibilities to several different agencies,
including local police and customs agents. Internal security and the
protection of state secrets are the responsibilities of the Romanian
Intelligence Service (SRI), which includes uniformed troops among
its personnel. The SRI also is responsible for counterterrorism; an
anti-terrorism brigade is assigned to each of Bucharest’s six
Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 6/16/2005 6:49 AM
The impact of folklore and tradition has had a strong influence
on the evolution of Romanian culture. “Miorita” (“The Ewe Lamb”), an
ancient legend about the relationship between man and nature, is
considered one of the masterpieces of Romanian literature. The
richly embroidered cultural tradition of Romania has been nurtured
by many factors, and much of it predates the Roman occupation.
Although somewhat diminished by modern tastes that tend to eschew
“peasant culture,” traditional folk arts, dance, woodcarving,
weaving, and decoration of costumes, as well as an enthralling body
of folk music, still flourish in many parts of the country.
Modern Romanian literature was born in the mid-19th century
through the work of writers such as Mihai Eminescu (1850-1889), Ion
Creanga (1837-1889), Ion Luca Caragiale (1842-1912), and poet Tudor
Arghezi (1880-1967). Romania has about 2,100 public libraries. In
2003, 11,571 new book titles were published, according to the
National Library (the National Library receives one copy of each
published book or booklet for archival purposes).
Despite strong Austrian and German influence, the modern movement
in painting and sculpture is rooted in the revolutionary period,
1830-1848, when the sons of wealthy Romanian boyars traveled abroad
to study in Western schools of art, particularly in Paris and Rome.
Among the most influential of these artists are Nicolae Grigorescu
(1838-1907), a painter of mildly impressionistic peasant scenes, and
Theodor Aman (1831-1891) who was more influenced by the Barbizon
School. Notable modern painters include Nicolae Tonitsa (1886-1940),
Gheorghe Popescu (1903-1975), Ion Tuculescu (1910-1961), and Marin
Gherasim (born 1937). Graphic art, book illustration, and poster
design are respected art forms in Romania. Romanian artists, from
the ancient to the modern, are distinguished by their fondness for
bold, bright colors.
In music, George Enescu and Dinu Lipatti are well known, the
former being widely recognized by Romanians as their national
composer. Bucharest has been a home to opera since 1864, and soprano
Elena Teodorini (1857-1926) received wide public acclaim in her day.
Most Romanians still cherish their folk music and Christmas carols.
These are often performed in programs featured on the national
cultural television station by artists in traditional dress.
Although serious literature in several languages is widely read,
and many Romanians read and write poetry, books are expensive, and
book stores are relatively scarce in comparison to other developed
countries. Print runs for books tend to be small, and many books go
out of print quickly because Romanians still do not have enough
disposable income to make book purchases more than an occasional
Bucharest abounds with temporary and permanent art exhibitions
and installations by Romanian and foreign artists. In addition to
the state-owned museums, there are numerous private galleries both
large and small.
Several concerts and recitals are held weekly, in season. There
are also regular ballet and opera schedules at the Opera House.
Bucharest’s numerous active theaters produce a variety of comedies,
dramas and musicals. Tickets remain astoundingly inexpensive by
Science and technology in Romania are closely connected with
contemporary efforts to modernize the nation and create an
industrial state. The most prestigious of scientific societies
founded in the 19th century is the Romanian Academy, established in
1866. Today, applied science and technology are officially
emphasized, particularly in educational and research institutions.
The National Council for Science and Technology and the Academy of
Social and Political Sciences direct scientific research.
The state supports education in Romania at all levels. Entry
exams are required for high school, with top-scoring teens entering
the equivalent of “magnet schools.” Confusingly for Americans, these
top level Romanian high schools are called National Colleges.
State-supported universities tend to attract better students, the
majority of whom receive scholarships for most education costs.
However, state-funded universities also accept tuition-paying
students and there exist a relatively large number of private
universities of which only a portion are accredited. Romanian
universities are currently in transition to meet requirements set by
the EU’s university structural reforms, where undergraduate study is
reduced to three years and masters study programs are set at two
years throughout Europe. This is creating some ferment in
educational policy as it forces Romania to consider wide-ranging
reforms beyond simply the number of years of study. Competition for
entrance into the universities and for postgraduate study is fierce.
Major university centers include Bucharest, Cluj, Iasi, Sibiu,
Timisoara, and Craiova.
Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 6/16/2005 6:50 AM
Romania’s economy, which was centrally controlled, is in the
process of moving towards a free market system. A large number of
formerly state-owned enterprises have been turned into limited
liability or joint-stock companies, and thousands of privately owned
businesses, mostly small service-oriented operations, have appeared.
In spite of this positive trend, the country still suffers from the
crippling legacy of the Communist regime, and faces enormous
difficulties in the process of changing old economic structures and
mentalities. Industrial production has decreased, foreign trade has
recorded unprecedented deficits, unemployment remains at
approximately 6.2% and inflation, while declining over the past
several years, remains high at 9.3%.
Romania's natural resources include petroleum, natural gas, coal,
iron, copper, bauxite, uranium ore, salt, and timber. The country’s
industrial structure is dominated by the chemical and petrochemical,
iron-and-steel, and machine building sectors. Textile, leather, and
glassware manufacturing, as well as wood processing, are also
Romania has a total of some 15 million hectares of agricultural
land, of which 9.3 million are arable. Until early 1991,
cooperatives accounted for about 67% of this total, state farms 21%,
and private holdings 12%. The land reform law returned over 90% of
all land to private farmers, but the average farm size remains at
just 2.5 ha, with a large portion of the rural population living on
subsistence agriculture. Crop production typically represents about
55% of the value of agricultural output. Grains (corn, wheat,
barley) and oilseeds (sunflower) are the most important crops.
Romania also has extensive orchards, vineyards, and truck farms.
Animal husbandry (mostly cattle, sheep, swine, and poultry) has good
potential for producing significant quantities of meat and dairy
products. Modernization of agriculture and of food processing tops
the country's priority list and there is real potential for major
growth in all sectors. In mid-2004, Romania closed the EU
negotiation chapter on agriculture, and the country’s EU accession
is expected to promote modernization of the farm sector. While
extremely favorable crop conditions resulted in a 22% growth in the
agricultural sector in 2004, it still struggles to meet the new
regulatory requirements of the EU, and the ongoing problem of land
Romania’s trade policies are primarily shaped by its World Trade
Organization (WTO) commitments and by its efforts to join the
European Union (EU). Romanian exports reached record levels in 2004,
exceeding $20 billion for the first time. Textiles and apparel
topped the list of Romanian exports. On the other hand, Romanian
imports broke the $30 billion record, resulting in a sizeable trade
deficit. Imports were driven mainly by a relative absence of
domestic supply along with favorable financing terms. Imports were
assisted by the appreciation of the Romanian Lei in comparison to
the U.S. dollar and euro, which in turn hindered exports. Machinery
and equipment topped the import list, with textiles, minerals, and
chemicals also ranking high. Countries from the enlarged EU are
Romania’s principal trading partners, although bilateral trade with
the U.S. continues to grow.
Automobiles Last Updated: 6/16/2005 6:51 AM
Left-hand-drive automobiles are used in Romania. Most employees
ship American or Western European cars to post. Availability of car
parts varies widely depending on the make and model. If you plan to
ship a vehicle, you should ask GSO whether your vehicle make and
model can be serviced locally. Parts and service are only available
for some vehicles, and cost for parts purchased in Romania can be
very high. Consequently, based on the age and make of your vehicle,
you may want to plan on including some parts in your shipment such
as: fan belts; fuses; spark plugs; points and condensers (if your
car uses them); windshield wiper blades; touch-up paint; air, oil,
and fuel filters; spare headlights and other bulbs; any other parts
such as brake pads, shock absorbers, gaskets, and hoses that your
local dealer’s service department recommends. If possible, bring
your car’s service manual. It is possible to purchase some auto
parts through Internet companies.
Vehicles older than eight years can only be sold within the
diplomatic community. If you plan to ship an older car, be sure that
it is in good running condition, including the battery and tires.
Tire failure on rough roads is common. While most people use their
cars daily, the actual mileage driven during a tour in Romania is
much lower than in the U.S..
Unleaded gas is available in Romania. Romanian premium gasoline
currently costs $1.3 a liter (about $5.20 a gallon); diesel fuel is
less expensive. Gas stations are located in most cities and are
often open 24x7.
Winters in Bucharest can be very hard on your car, as snow and
ice removal programs for city streets are unreliable. A good auto
jack, a lug wrench, a set of jumper cables, tire chains, and a
flashlight are important, as is an emergency tire-inflator/sealer
bottle. Have a car first-aid kit.
Each family may import duty free, register, and sell upon
departure only two vehicles during a normal tour of duty. This
limitation includes vehicles purchased from other diplomatic
personnel in Romania. Vehicle sellers may have to sell vehicles at a
lower price than anticipated. Hence, do not expect to realize a
profit from selling your car at the end of your tour of duty.
Generally, the higher the cost of the car, the harder it is to sell
at a price the seller expects.
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory. It must be bought
locally and is relatively inexpensive. GSO completes registration
upon possession of the vehicle and of third-party liability
insurance. Collision insurance is available from U.S. companies or
various local insurance groups.
Current State Department regulations prohibit shipment of foreign
vehicles to the U.S., but make an exception for privately owned
automobiles of Foreign Service personnel in Romania. This exception
has been granted under the provisions of 6 FAM 165.9-1(E) (2) and
remains valid for shipment of foreign vehicles to the U.S.,
regardless of where the car may go after Romania. Department of
Defense regulations are similar.
Foreign-made vehicles often do not meet EPA emission control
standards. Before importing such vehicles to the U.S., approval and
emission control adaptation must be arranged. The importation
procedure is more complicated than that for an EPA-approved vehicle,
and includes potential out-of-pocket expenses for the employee.
Importation of a vehicle with EU specifications into the United
States may present significant complications and expenses.
Police cars are blue and white, with a blue light on top, and are
labeled “Politia.” Fire trucks are red. Many ambulances are not
white and do not always use their sirens, while some have a red
cross painted on the door and use only a flashing light.
Local Transportation Last Updated: 6/16/2005 6:51 AM
Some Embassy personnel use local and/or public transportation in
Bucharest. Bucharest is the only Romanian city to have a subway
system, which is generally safe, convenient and reliable. Security
guards patrol the train cars and the stations. The old trains are in
the process of being replaced with new ones, which are clean and
comfortable. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the public
surface transportation. Much of the bus and trolley fleets have also
been replaced in recent years, but they are often slow and crowded
and pickpockets and muggers are commonly found aboard. Thus, the RSO
recommends against their use. Metered taxis are available throughout
Romania. Vehicles are of varying age and condition, and drivers do
not have special licenses. Fares established by taxi companies range
from inexpensive to reasonable, but unaffiliated taxi drivers
establish their own, often exorbitant, tariffs.
Streets in Bucharest are hard surfaced, but quality varies on the
bumpy and cobblestoned streets. Potholes are common. Streets are
slippery when wet, particularly those paved with cobblestones.
Inefficient to nonexistent snow removal makes ice buildup a serious
problem in the winter.
Regional Transportation Last Updated: 6/16/2005 6:52 AM
Bucharest’s Baneasa Airport provides some domestic and regional
air service on TAROM, the State airline, and on charter flights.
Henri Coanda (Otopeni) Airport, about 10 miles outside of Bucharest,
has both domestic and foreign air service. Many Embassy personnel
have used TAROM for trips to Greece, Turkey and Western Europe and
opinions on the service have often been conflicting. It is somewhat
cheaper to fly with TAROM than with a Western carrier.
When traveling around Romania, most people prefer to drive, but
some personnel have used the railway system for either official or
personal trips. Foreigners rarely use intercity buses.
The national road system is generally fair. Most roads are
two-lane with an asphalt surface, but some less traveled roads are
gravel and dirt. A four-lane highway runs from the northern city
limits of Bucharest to Ploiesti, a second four-lane limited-access
highway stretches from Bucharest to Pitesti, and the “Sun Highway,”
which is only partially completed, runs from the capital to
Romania’s Black Sea coast. Frequent encounters with heavy truck
traffic and horse-drawn carts or farm machinery can hinder progress
on Romanian roads. Rest stops for fuel and food are available on
major routes. For further information, see Notes for Travelers.
Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:00 AM
Romania’s telephone service is improving. Embassy residences and
offices have touch-tone systems. Long-distance domestic and
international calls can be direct-dialed from USG quarters or from
Calls from Romania to the U.S. are approximately the same price
as calls made from the U.S. to Romania. All Embassy homes have
telephones for which employees pay a monthly fee. Employees will
also be billed for personal phone calls made from the office. Phone
cards and Internet telephone services are available and offer a
cheaper alternative to the traditional phone system.
Three companies operate Romania’s excellent cellular phone
network. U.S. direct-hires are issued a cell phone in accordance
with post policy. Roaming service throughout Europe and to the U.S.
for cell phones is available but can be expensive. Employees will be
billed for personal phone calls made on official cellular phones.
Internet Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:01 AM
There are many reliable Internet Service Providers in Bucharest.
Dial-up service is still prevalent. Cable and wireless Internet are
available, but generally more expensive than in the U.S..
If you have school-age children, a computer with Internet access
may be necessary, as many assignments involve using the Internet as
a tool for research. In addition, children attending the American
International School of Bucharest (AISB) are expected to type their
major school reports as early as the 5th grade.
There are numerous computer stores in Bucharest, and it is
possible to purchase your computer products here. Blank CD-ROMs and
DVDs, toner/print cartridges and other computer supplies are
available. Prices can be higher than in the U.S., but you can
usually find what you need. Competent PC repair is available and
some U.S. warrantees can be honored, but service may be slower than
in the U.S..
Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:01 AM
Mail and parcels from the U.S. are shipped via the Department of
State diplomatic air pouch. The official address is:
John Doe Department of State 5260 Bucharest Place Washington,
The address for personal mail and parcels is:
John Doe 5260 Bucharest Place Dulles, Va. 20189-5260
Regular U.S. postage is required for all mail. Incoming personal
pouch mail is limited to parcels that do not exceed 17x18x32 and
must not weigh more than 50 pounds (reference 2005 State 318871).
Parcels over these limits will be rejected by the pouch service in
the State Department. It is illegal to send any packages containing
aerosols or liquids of any kind and any packages containing these
items will be returned to the sender. The incoming U.S. mail pouch
is scheduled to arrive four times a week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
and Friday). Outgoing pouches are dispatched once a week on
Thursdays. Average delivery time from the U.S. east coast to
Bucharest is 10-12 days (allow more time at Christmas). Mail from
Bucharest to the U.S. is the same, so keep this in mind when making
monthly bill or mortgage payments. Many employees now pay bills
electronically. You are not allowed to ship packages out of Romania
using the pouch system. Large envelopes are accepted but cannot
exceed two pounds. The Bucharest Embassy Recreation Association runs
the Homeward Bound Mail (HBM) Program. This program was developed
for posts without APO/FPO facilities, and must be operated by an
employee association. HBM is a fee-for-service program that allows
employee association members to send packages to the U.S. or other
posts via the pouch. Full establishment guidelines are at
http://pouch.a.state.gov along with the applicable regulations (5
Bring a supply of U.S. postage stamps for letters, since the
Employee Association only sells a limited supply. Once at post, you
can also order stamps on-line from the USPS website.
Radio and TV Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:02 AM
There are several major television stations in Romania: PRO TV,
Romanian State Television (RTV 1 and RTV 2), Antenna 1, Prima TV,
National, Acasa, PRO Cinema, Realitatea, and B1 TV. A large number
of television stations outside of the capital are affiliated with
one of these broadcasters. The others are local television stations
that cover only the immediate urban area. All these stations
broadcast via satellite. While the news programs are in Romanian,
the TV stations carry a large assortment of American TV programs and
movies in English with Romanian subtitles. Cable systems carry
satellite programming from the U.S., Germany, France, Italy, Spain
and other countries. They include news channels such as CNN, BBC, TV
5 and Euro News, as well as entertainment channels like HBO,
Hallmark, Cartoon Network, and TNT (certain hours), Fox Kids, MTV,
VH-1, Reality Television, National Geographic, Euro-Sport and the
Discovery Channel. HBO is available at a modest additional charge
Many American Embassy employees have purchased AFN decoders from
military bases and are satisfied with the service.
The color system in Romania is European PAL, 220v. If you have
plans to use or to buy a television set and DVD or videotape player,
it is recommended that you purchase multi-system sets and machines
that can accept both PAL and NTSC signals. A
multi-system/dual-voltage music system is also advisable. Such
multi-system sets are available from military exchange facilities
and tax-free companies such as Peter Justesen. Satellite dishes can
also be acquired locally.
The Embassy’s Bucharest Employee Recreation Association (BERA)
rents NTSC VHS videos as well as some of the latest DVD releases to
its members. There are also local video-rental stores (PAL system)
that offer American movies with Romanian subtitles. Some personnel
use on-line video/DVD rental websites such as NetFlix.
Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated:
6/16/2005 7:02 AM
Almost 600 newspapers and periodicals are published regularly in
Romania. Feisty, politically committed, usually unrestrained, often
irresponsible and leaning toward the sensational as they compete for
readership in a crowded market, the print media offers the Romanian
public a great variety of information cutting across the political
There are local English-language publications including two
weeklies, two daily newspapers (9 o’clock and the Bucharest Daily
News), and one monthly (In Review). Some Romanian-language dailies,
e.g., Evenimentul Zilei, have an Internet edition that can be read
Many international newspapers and magazines (Time, Newsweek, The
Economist, and the International Herald Tribune) can be found in
certain kiosks in the central part of the city, in hotels, and at
the airport. A personal subscription to the International Herald
Tribune is available but expensive, and arrives one day late or
more. U.S. publications on the Internet can be accessed from
The Embassy Public Diplomacy section’s daily Washington File
contains an excellent collection of official U.S. Government
statements on a variety of issues. The European Staff File is a
compilation of news articles from major American newspapers. Both
are available on the Embassy web site and in the Information
Resource Center along with other papers, magazines and reference
Health and Medicine
Medical Facilities Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:03 AM
Romanian medical care is below U.S. standards. The Embassy
maintains a Health Unit staffed by a Foreign Service Health
Practitioner (FSHP) or medical officer and two part-time Romanian
nurses. Post is also served by a regional medical officer (RMO), who
is resident in Vienna and makes visits to post about 2 times per
year, and by a regional psychiatric officer (RMO/P), who is also
stationed in Vienna and visits post annually. These doctors are
available for telephone or cable consultation.
The Health Unit can provide: (1) primary health care; (2) most
immunizations; (3) health-care advice to those personnel
participating in the Department of State’s Medical Program through
ICASS. There are several private clinics with Western trained
physicians who are sometimes utilized as consultants.
The FSHP handles most general emergencies and treatment. One of
the local nurses or FSHP, if available, accompanies personnel to the
hospital. American diplomats and their families use the Emergency
Hospital only for emergencies. Due to limited medical resources at
the few approved clinics and hospitals, patients are stabilized and
transferred to Medevac facilities. When necessary, the FSHP consults
with the Regional Medical Officer (RMO) if medical evacuation to
Western Europe or the U.S. is recommended. Personnel who need
medical attention in Western Europe are sent by medical evacuation
to either London or Vienna. Ongoing conditions of a chronic nature
are also recommended for Medevac.
While most doctors appear to be adequately educated, the medical
system continues to remain somewhat corrupt and inconsistent.
Training for nurses in Romania, like so many countries in the
region, is not standardized and sometimes results in inappropriate
patient treatment. The Embassy’s local nurses are both well trained
and closely monitored by the FSHP.
Obstetrical care in Romania is risky, as there are no
perinatology facilities for adequate newborn treatment in the event
of an emergency. The maternity hospitals do not provide
state-of-the-art care for either mother or baby, and complications
are not always obvious during the course of a pregnancy.
Uncomplicated pregnancies are followed by the FSHP during the first
34 weeks of pregnancy, and then transferred to a U.S. obstetrician
of the patient’s choice for further care and delivery.
There are several Western standard private dental clinics that
Americans use for routine, and sometimes for emergency, care.
Emergency dental problems that cannot safely be handled in Bucharest
are referred to London. All treatment received is at the patient's
expense. Foreign Service medical regulations allow one evacuation
trip, plus one day per diem per year for certain kinds of emergency
dental care (see 3 FAM 680 for details). Limited orthodontic care
and treatment is available in Romania.
Local pharmacies stock some Western supplies, although routine
American over-the-counter medications such as Benadryl, Dimetapp,
Pepto-Bismol, etc., are not available. The commissary stocks a few
patient medicines and health aids. Personnel should not rely on the
Health Unit for day-to-day basic medical supplies. Bring at least a
6-month supply of Band-Aids, peroxide, rubbing alcohol,
acetaminophen or aspirin, cold remedies, vitamins, as well as the
makings of a solid first aid kit. Many insurance companies will
permit individuals going overseas to obtain a one-year supply of
some necessary prescriptions, including contraceptives and hormone
replacement therapy. These medications are not available in Romania
on a reliable basis. The FSHP can write prescriptions that can be
filled by U.S. pharmacies that send medications and health supplies
overseas. There are also mechanisms to obtain medications online
from certain Internet-based pharmacies. There are, however, pouch
restrictions regarding the shipment of liquids, which include
Health and Medicine
Community Health Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:04 AM
Weather and poor local sanitation can be a problem and can
aggravate certain health conditions. Garbage pickup and street
sweeping and washing in Bucharest are sporadic, but sewage disposal
is adequate. Winter weather is hard because streets are not cleared
of snow and ice, and apartments and work sites are irregularly
heated. In winter particulate, soot from burning wood and soft coal
will aggravate sinus problems, asthma, and allergies; dust from the
extensive construction in Bucharest will do the same for some people
year round. Water supply can be a health problem, but all Embassy
homes have water distillers and bottled water is readily available.
Lead and heavy metal content in water is high, but allowing the tap
to run a few minutes before use will bring lead levels to an
acceptable range for bathing. A few cases of cholera have been
diagnosed in the Danube Delta area in summer months, primarily from
contaminated water, preventable by treating water. Legionella was
identified in several mission houses that are now vacated. Testing
for these and other organisms remains an ongoing task. Giardia is
endemic in the water supply throughout Romania, adding additional
risk to consuming local water sources. Personnel are advised not to
drink, clean raw fruits and vegetables, or brush teeth with any
water except distilled or reliable bottled water. All meats and eggs
should be thoroughly cooked to avoid contamination from shigella,
salmonella, yersinia, cryptospiridium or campylobacter organisms.
Diarrhea frequently occurs as a result of the presence of these
organisms in local food sources.
AIDS and sero-positive HIV remain public health problems,
particularly among Romanian children. The primary cause is vertical
transmission from HIV-positive mothers and the reuse of contaminated
syringes. Numbers are increasing among the adult population due to
prostitution and intravenous drug abuse. AIDS surveillance programs
have begun in Romania, as well as programs for blood donor screening
for HIV and Hepatitis A, B, and C. The Regional Medical Technologist
(RMT) assessed the Emergency Hospital and determined their blood
bank to be adequate by European standards. In the event of a major
traumatic injury requiring transfusion, they will provide necessary
blood supply. All new arrivals to the embassy receive a health
briefing and booklet covering these issues at post.
Health and Medicine
Preventive Measures Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:04 AM
All immunizations should be current upon arrival. Hepatitis A and
B vaccination is recommended. Children should have up-to-date DPT,
MMNR, HIB vaccines, polio, and Hepatitis B. Any needed immunizations
for children are available at the health unit. Bring blood type
records, as well as a copy of the last medical clearance and
physical exam for all family members.
Stray dogs are a very common problem, although no rabid dogs have
been reported in Bucharest in over a year. Because of the
overpopulation of dogs in Bucharest and surrounding areas, we
recommend rabies pre-exposure immunization for everyone over the age
of 2. This is a series of three vaccines and should be done prior to
arriving at post. In the event of a dog bite, two additional doses
will be administered for adequate protection against rabies. If a
person has not obtained pre-exposure immunization prior to arriving
at post, they will need five doses of rabies vaccine in addition to
an injection of rabies immune globulin at the wound site. The health
unit keeps an emergency supply of rabies vaccine and immune globulin
for use only after an animal bite.
Local water does not contain fluoride. The Health Unit has
limited supplies of fluoride drops/tablets for children so bring a
supply with you. Bring vitamins with fluoride for small children.
All children over the age of 6 months should receive fluoride
supplementation while living in Romania. There are specific
guidelines for safely administering fluoride to children, which the
health unit can provide.
Employees or family members with respiratory, orthopedic, or
other ailments that prohibit climbing stairs should be aware that
usually one flight of stairs is required to enter a building. Once
inside the building, stairs abound, with either no elevator or an
occasionally nonfunctioning one. Within the Embassy itself are there
five buildings, all with one or two flights of stairs. As a general
rule, buildings in Bucharest are NOT wheelchair accessible.
Replacements for prescription glasses can be obtained locally so
bring a copy of your prescription. They are reasonably priced,
although imported frames can be quite expensive. It is very
difficult to find “lineless bifocals” or “progressive” lenses in
Bucharest, though there are one or two vendors that deal with these
types of prescriptions.
Additional Information: Open positions are posted both within the
Embassy and on the Embassy's Internet Web Site. Go to
http://www.usembassy.ro/ then select Job Opportunities. The Human
Resources Officer and the Community Liaison Officer are always glad
to discuss employment possibilities with eligible family members.
Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 6/16/2005
Eligible Family Members: The Embassy makes a strong effort to
provide employment opportunities for Eligible Family Members (EFMs).
The EFM Hiring Policy provides that priority will be given to EFMs
who are as qualified for a position as other American applicants.
The nature and number of EFM positions varies with program
requirements and funding availability. At present, EFMs are working
in the following positions: Community Liaison Officer, Consular
Associate, Economics Section Secretary, Supervisory General Services
Assistant, Budget & Finance Assistant, Human Resources Assistant and
Cleared American Escort. Other agencies at post also have EFM
positions available from time to time. Part-time positions, such as
our Roving Secretary positions, occasionally become available on a
“when actually employed” and intermittent basis. When possible, post
prefers to employ EFMs through the Family Member Appointment (FMA)
program, which allows EFMs to gain service credit and participate in
the retirement and Thrift Savings Plans. Additional information on
the FMA program is available at post from the Human Resources
Officer or in Washington from the Family Liaison Office. Positions
are also sometimes available with the Bucharest Employee Recreation
Association (BERA), The American International School of Bucharest
(AISB) or as English tutors.
Members of Household: As outlined in 3 FAM 4181, "Post will
consider Members of Household (MOHs), who can legally work in
Romania and have obtained the necessary work permits, for positions
at post that are appropriate for their citizenship. Such
consideration is subject to applicable law, including nepotism
regulations, priority considerations for EFMs and Veterans
Private Sector Employment: There are few employment opportunities
available on the Romanian economy. When positions are available,
salaries are much lower than in the U.S.
Summer Hire Program: Provided that funding is available, the post
offers minimum-wage summer-hire jobs for EFM dependents. Eligible
dependents must be between the ages of 16 and 24, enrolled in a
course of study at an educational institution, and registered to
reenroll. Whenever possible, a winter vacation or semester break
program is also provided.
Additional Information: Open positions are posted both within the
Embassy and on the Embassy's Internet Web Site. Go to
http://www.usembassy.ro/ then select Job Opportunities. The Human
Resources Officer and the Community Liaison Officer are always glad
to discuss employment possibilities with eligible family members.
American Embassy - Bucharest
Post City Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:06 AM
With a population of over 2 million, Romania’s capital,
Bucharest, is the largest city in the country, as well as its
political, economic, and administrative center. Once a settlement on
an ancient trading route, Bucharest is located on a wide
agricultural plain in the southeastern part of the country, 40 miles
north of the Danube and 156 miles west of the Black Sea.
Located at an altitude of 265 feet, Bucharest enjoys a temperate
climate. Except for the 22-story Intercontinental Hotel, the city
has a low skyline. It was once called “the Paris of the Balkans”
thanks in part to its broad boulevards, its many terrace restaurants
and cafes, and its Triumphal Arch. Tree-lined drives and
19th-century neoclassical architecture add to the city's charm.
Bucharest has numerous parks and gardens, many with lakes and
splendid fountains, though they can be quite crowded on weekends.
The largest of these parks is Herastrau, which also encompasses the
Village Museum (see Entertainment section below). In central
Bucharest, an abundance of architecturally fascinating churches,
large and small, abound. Many former aristocratic residences have
been converted into offices for State enterprises or diplomatic
missions and residences. These buildings were left to deteriorate
and many were demolished under communism, when a rash of
Soviet-style monolithic constructions spread over the face of the
city, but work to preserve and restore earlier architecture is
French was formerly the most commonly used foreign language in
Bucharest but, in recent years, English has almost completely
supplanted it. Knowledge of Romanian is still an important asset,
even for non-officers and dependents. While you will encounter some
English-speaking shopkeepers, most of the people working in the
“piata” markets, the taxi drivers, subway attendants, housekeepers,
and other people with whom you have daily interactions prefer to
speak in Romanian. There is ample opportunity to practice and
improve your Romanian language skills. Free language courses are
provided to embassy employees and dependents with diplomatic status.
Private tutors are also available and charge approximately $10 per
hour, and the International Women's Association offers language
groups for Romanian and many other languages. Contact the CLO for
more information on Romanian language course offerings.
Traffic in Bucharest is always hectic due to the increasing
number of vehicles on the road and minimal enforcement of safety
laws. Parking garages are virtually nonexistent, so people will
often park (and double or triple park) on the sidewalks, forcing
pedestrians to walk in the street. Foot traffic is therefore always
heavy. Drive with caution and keep in mind that pedestrians have the
right-of-way. Strolling in the late evening is a popular pastime
when the weather is good. Although most of the city streets are
better lit than before the revolution, they are still dark by
Problems of pick-pocketing and scams directed at tourists are
common. Violent crime, however, is extremely uncommon. The Regional
Security Officer briefs new arrivals at post on how to avoid
becoming a victim of crime while in Romania.
Social life in Bucharest is diverse. See the sections on
Recreation and Social Life and Entertainment below for more
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:06 AM
The Chancery compound is located near the city center at Strada
Tudor Arghezi 7-9. The main Chancery building is an ornate, rococo
mansion built in 1888. The compound houses the Executive, Political,
and Economic Sections, the Defense Attaché’s Office, the Regional
Security Office, the Management Section, the FBI offices, and the
Consulate. The Embassy snack bar and commissary, managed by the
Bucharest Employee Recreation Association (BERA) are also located on
The General Services Office and Public Diplomacy are both housed
on compounds in converted residences, within several blocks of the
Chancery. A separate building, one block from the Chancery, houses
the Foreign Commercial Service, Foreign Agricultural Service, and
some of the Security Offices.
Embassy business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with an hour for
lunch. All U.S. Government career employees with the exception of
the Ambassador, DCM, USAID Mission Director, Peace Corps Director,
RSO, and IM personnel, serve on the Embassy duty roster; the duty
period is one week once or twice annually. A Marine Security Guard
is on duty 24 hours a day at the Chancery.
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:07 AM
GSO will make every attempt to move you directly into your
permanent quarters immediately upon your arrival in Bucharest.
However, sometimes necessary renovations and repainting requirements
between occupants make this impossible. If you are unable to move
directly into your assigned quarters, you will be placed in
temporary housing or, more rarely, in a hotel, until renovations on
your assigned housing have been completed. Anticipate a 2-week or
longer waiting period for the move from temporary to permanent
housing if you arrive during a time of heavy post turnover.
Welcome Kits are provided until your airfreight arrives (usually
about 3 weeks). The welcome kit includes such items as chinaware,
glassware, flatware, cooking and baking needs, utensils, bed and
bath linens, hangers, toaster, shower curtain, ironing board (with
pad) and iron, vacuum cleaner and TV/VCR. A crib, if necessary, with
appropriate linen is also available.
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:07 AM
The Embassy maintains approximately 80 residences with 2-4
bedrooms. These residences are a mixture of leased and U.S.
Government owned apartments and single family dwellings that are
scattered throughout north central Bucharest and the northern
suburbs of Baneasa and Pipera. Most have a Western European standard
of construction and finishing, with smaller kitchens and less
storage space than American standards. About 30% of leased housing
is in older Eastern-Bloc style buildings, but many of these units
are larger in area than the more modern ones. All Embassy quarters
are fully furnished. Every consideration is made to ensure personnel
the best possible housing for their needs and comfort. Housing
layouts are also sometimes very different from U.S. standards and
there will be advantages and disadvantages to each type of building
Houses and apartments for families are three or four bedrooms.
Many of the apartments in Bucharest have balconies. Most family
residences have small yards. Small, separate but adequately
appointed kitchens are the norm. Most of the single-family houses
have finished attics. Most housing is within 10-30 minutes of the
New housing development is a booming business on the outskirts of
Bucharest, and the Embassy continues to buy and lease modern
duplexes outside the city center near the new campus of the American
International School of Bucharest. Families with children attending
AISB may be housed near the school.
The Post Housing Board assigns housing on the basis of family
size and employee position in accordance with A-171 Housing Policy
Space Standards (6 FAM 720 & 92 State 209682). You will not
necessarily occupy the quarters of your predecessor. Except for the
Ambassador, DCM, the DAO, USAID Director and Marine Security Guards,
all housing is pooled and usually rotates.
The Embassy pays all rent and utilities (except telephone and
cable). Employees pay for gardening service, if applicable, and maid
services. Most routine residential repair and maintenance is the
responsibility of private landlords and housing companies or in the
case of USG-owned properties, GSO/Facilities Maintenance. GSO will
process all work requests for approval by a GSO Officer or by
private landlords. Occupants are expected to maintain and keep their
premises in good order.
The Ambassador’s residence is a three-story house with a one-car
garage. The ground floor has two salons, a small library, and a
large dining room. A terrace runs the length of the building along
the dining room. On the same side of the house is a 28,000-square
foot garden with a tennis court. Ample room is available for indoor
receptions. On the ground floor, extending back from the dining
room, is an indoor swimming pool, measuring 33´x 16´with a minimum
depth of 3´. The swimming pool looks out onto the garden with the
roof terrace/garden directly above. The master bedroom, dining room,
and cloakroom, plus three more bedrooms, are on the second floor,
and two bedrooms are on the third floor.
The DCM’s three story house has a garage and an attractive yard
close to the Ambassador’s residence. It has a large kitchen, large
dining room and living room, library, four bedrooms, four bathrooms
and servants’ quarters.
Many employees live near the Embassy. Some of the apartments have
terraces or balconies; a few have gardens or courtyards. Most
apartments are in buildings with small elevators. A few units are
duplexes. Some apartments in Bucharest have high ceilings, many
windows, and are roomy with some storage space. A few have garages,
but many personnel park their cars on the street.
Furnishings Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:08 AM
This is a “furnished post” for State Department employees.
Furnishings include a standard set of living room, dining room, and
bedroom furniture, including lamps. Carpets, either wall-to-wall or
area rugs in the living room and dining room, curtains, and
draperies, at least one refrigerator and freezer, range, microwave,
washer, dryer, water distiller, and air-conditioners are also
supplied. Three transformers are provided for incidental use. Upon
request, State also provides its employees with a vacuum cleaner and
if available, a dishwasher, a humidifier or dehumidifier.
Bedroom furniture includes a queen-sized bed for the master
bedroom and twin size for all other bedrooms. Some bunk beds are
available but baby and juvenile-type furniture is not available. In
addition to these furnishings, the Ambassador’s residence and DCM’s
home are furnished with china, glassware, silver, and serving
pieces. Other agency personnel should contact their office in
Bucharest about furnishings provided.
Bring dishes, glasses, flatware, kitchen utensils, and pots and
pans, as well as bathroom rugs, shower curtains and hooks, a good
supply of coat hangers, ironing board, iron, and accessories. Bring
a complete set of linens: sheets, pillowcases, bedspreads, pads,
towels, tablecloths, napkins, and dishtowels. Electric blankets and
flannel sheets are welcome in winter, especially for apartment
dwellers; U.S. model electric blankets generally work well with a
transformer. Bring wall hangings and art, small occasional furniture
pieces, several throw rugs, extra lamps, and items to help
individualize your home.
No unusual climatic factors adversely affect household
furnishings here, but dust and grime are year-round challenges.
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:08 AM
Electricity in Bucharest is 220-volt/50-cycle, AC. The Embassy
provides three, 1500-2000 watt transformers for use with furnished
appliances. If you already have transformers, or can obtain them in
Western Europe, bring them. Motors for many vacuum cleaners can
operate on both 50/60-cycle systems. Vacuum cleaners are provided
but if you choose to bring a vacuum cleaner, irons, or other small
appliances, 220-volt/50-cycle is recommended.
Electric current can be variable. Frequent low-voltage
conditions, occasional high-voltage spikes, and below normal cycles
are common. Bring 220-voltage stabilizers or surge protectors to
protect sensitive high fidelity computers, or similar equipment.
Computers operating at 110volts will work through a transformer. Do
not bring plug-in electric clocks, even those made for 50-cycle
current, because low cycles cause them to lose time. Please do not
bring 110 volt hair dryers, electric frying pans or other appliances
that have heat elements. These items draw high amperages from
transformers and increase the likelihood of blown fuses or breakers.
Transformers are dangerous to operate near water and should not be
used in bathrooms. Bring a supply of European electrical adapters
and multiple wall plugs. If you already have 220-volt, 50-cycle
small appliances, bring them. If you need something after arrival,
you can buy it locally, from military commissaries in Germany,
Danish mail order houses, or the Army-Air Force Exchange System
Food Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:09 AM
Embassy families have many alternatives for food and supplies.
The commissary, managed by the Bucharest Employee Recreation
Association (BERA) has an assortment of popular American products.
American employees and their families may use the commissary (and
other BERA facilities) upon payment of dues and a refundable
deposit. The selection includes many American favorites such as
bacon, hot dogs, cheddar and cream cheeses, butter and a small
selection of frozen convenience foods. Liquor, soft drinks, juice,
flour, brown sugar (which is not available on the local market),
vanilla, a large variety of canned goods, chips, snacks, cookies,
detergent, pet food and paper products are also available in limited
quantities. Prices are generally at least 30% over U.S. retail
prices due to shipping costs and commissary overhead. BERA sponsors
community-wide special orders from Ramstein (although they are
currently negotiating to substitute these quarterly orders from
Ramstein for orders from AAFES), and individual orders from Peter
Justesen on demand.
Over the past couple of years, several Western-type supermarkets
have opened locally. All of these carry German, Danish, French,
Italian or Spanish meats, cheeses and canned goods as well as fresh
produce, meat and some specialty items and household supplies. Local
outdoor markets carry a wide selection of local and imported fruits
and vegetables, some of which are available year round. Lettuce is
hard to find during the winter months, although usually available in
more upscale markets at a high price. METRO and SELGROS, both bulk
purchase membership stores on the order of Price Club, offer a wide
variety of typical foods and products found in supermarkets,
including some U.S. products. New arrivals are provided with
membership cards for both of these stores in their CLO Welcome Kit.
Baby food and baby products by Hippo, Nestle and Danone can be found
in most grocery stores, but choices are basic. The commissary does
not sell baby food or formula, and employees with infants and young
children often get their baby supplies from on-line companies such
as netgrocer.com. Diapers and other baby-related products can be
purchased at pharmacies and larger supermarkets, but are not of U.S.
quality. An extensive list of supermarkets, markets, shopping
centers and other local food sources is available from the CLO.
Pork is the most widely available meat in Romania and can be
purchased in all forms. “Ceafa” is the name of the popular sliced
pork cuts that are grilled, fried or baked. Beef is also available,
although it is difficult, if not impossible, to find quality steak
cuts. Cuts are different than the ones familiar to Americans and
quality and selection vary from location to location. Ground beef is
generally good. Lamb is only available around Easter time. Frozen
chicken and chicken parts are widely available, although local
chicken tends to be tougher and smaller than the American type.
Fresh milk that is safe to drink is not available. Long-life full
fat and reduced fat milk are available almost everywhere.
Clothing Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:09 AM
Dress here is simple and informal, but conservative at official
Romanian and European diplomatic functions. "Informal" is the most
widely used term for social functions: sometimes it means a casual
suit or sport coat for men and dress for women; at other times a
dark suit for men and cocktail-length dress for women is preferred.
Wardrobes should resemble those needed in Washington, D.C.
Include winter clothing in your shipment or your suitcases if you
plan to arrive between October and March. Make sure to bring a warm
coat, scarves, hats, gloves, and boots. Silk or thermal underwear
will protect against chilly under-heated buildings in winter. Bring
or plan to order all footwear.
The quality and availability of clothing and footwear is
inconsistent. All clothing, including children’s, differs noticeably
in fit from items purchased in the U.S., and is often more
expensive. Selection is limited and medium-to-large women’s sizes
are difficult to find. The stores tend to sell out of the more
popular sizes quickly and to stock fewer of the other sizes. Some
clothing can be custom-made locally by a seamstress or a tailor, but
you must supply zippers, buttons, threads, needles, linings, and in
some cases, fabric. Although all of these things are available
locally, synthetic fabric is popular in Romania and natural fiber
fabrics can be expensive and difficult to find. Bring a sewing
machine if you sew.
Bring rubber boots for the entire family; soot and coal burning
in winter make ice and snow very acidic and damaging to leather.
Snow boots with good tread are a necessity, as streets and sidewalks
remain extremely icy for most of the winter. If you plan to walk in
the city during winter time, consider buying ice traction devices
that can be attached to your boots. Ice remains on the sidewalks for
days or weeks at a time and makes walking in the city treacherous.
Shoes for women who wear sizes above a U.S. size 8 or for women with
wider feet can be difficult to find.
The post currently uses the following designations for dress on
Black Tie: Black tuxedo (or summer white dinner jacket) for men;
long or short formal dress for women.
Business attire: Dark business suit for men; long or short formal
dress for women.
Informal (casual): Business suit for men; long or short dress for
women. Sport shirt and slacks for men; long or short casual dress,
hostess gown or slacks and top for women.
Military: Officers assigned duty here should have both service
and dress uniforms.
Supplies and Services
Supplies Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:10 AM
Shops in Bucharest carry a variety of both locally made and
imported items. American brand goods are scarce and expensive, so if
you have preferences, bring them with you (i.e., toiletries,
cosmetics, medicines, first-aid items, tobacco, and other household,
recreational and entertainment supplies). Bucharest has a large
variety of locally made china, glassware, and crystal at reasonable
Bring garment bags, hot-water bottles, heating pads, hangers,
tools such as hammers and screwdrivers, assorted screws and nails,
glue, masking tape, scotch-tape, European-type converter plugs (not
British), picture-hanging hooks and wire, multiple wall plugs,
flashlights, lighter fluid, and a small step ladder. If your child
uses disposable diapers, send a supply in your household effects.
Also be prepared to bring toys, as the quality of educational toys
offered in Romania is far below Americans' expectations, the
availability is limited and they are always extremely expensive.
Wrapping paper, ribbons, and cards are available on the local
market. The selection includes gift wrapping paper and accessories,
birthday candles, stationery items, greeting cards (including a
supply of Christmas/holiday cards in Romanian), party decorations,
party games for children and adults, and party favors. Children's
toys are sold locally, but they may not be as durable as those you
bring or order. If you have small children, include small toys and
games for exchanging at birthday parties.
Due to lack of storage space, the commissary has a very limited
and inconsistent supply of pet food. Pet foods and other supplies
are widely available on the local market, although the brands may
not all be familiar to Americans. Some personnel order pet food and
supplies on-line through web sites such as netgrocer.com.
Plants, pots, potting soil, and gardening tools are widely
available for reasonable prices.
Sporting equipment such as roller blades, bicycles, and soccer
balls are available locally, but they are either expensive
(imported) or of inferior quality (locally made). Therefore, you may
want to consider bringing your favorite sporting equipment,
clothing, and sports accessories with you. Some smaller sporting
goods items can be ordered and received through the diplomatic
pouch, such as ice skates and roller blades, but size limitation is
restrictive (see Mail and Pouch services). Sleds, skis, and bicycles
are best shipped with household effects.
Film and developing services are available locally and through
BERA, and are on par with international standards. Kodak is one of
the main suppliers.
Supplies and Services
Basic Services Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:10 AM
The supply of basic services has increased greatly in Bucharest
over the last few years, but they can still be very expensive,
especially automobile services. Many European and Japanese
dealerships exist in Romania. Some spare parts and maintenance and
repairs from these facilities are available. For ease and
efficiency, it is a good idea to pack extra maintenance parts (i.e.,
air and oil filters, spark plugs, etc.), in your household goods.
Smaller devices, such as air compressors and extra gas caps, are
good to have if you intend to travel by car throughout the country.
Many salons and barbershops exist for hair care and beauty
services, but services are not consistent, and price does not
necessarily determine the quality. Individuals can also provide
these services in your home. Hair color tends to be extreme in
Romania, but you can provide your own hair-coloring supplies to be
used by a hairdresser.
The majority of Embassy personnel use one of two dry-cleaning
services that make weekly deliveries to the Embassy, Consulate, and
USAID. Tailors and seamstresses will either make or alter clothing
(see Clothing). Shoe repair services are available at reasonable
Supplies and Services
Domestic Help Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:11 AM
Most Embassy personnel employ Romanians to help with the
housework and/or to care for their children. Individuals rely
greatly upon their household help not only for their
responsibilities in the home, but also as sources of local
information. Even single personnel usually hire a part-time maid. It
is important to consider this when planning representational events.
The Ambassador and DCM have larger household staffs.
It is possible to find English speakers to work in the home.
However, it is easier to employ an English speaker for childcare
than it is for housework. Household help does not live with the
family. Referrals are the main source for hiring domestic employees.
The CLO has résumés on file, and the RSO provides newcomers with
Salaries depend upon the size of the family and the quarters. The
length of time the employee works daily and the amount of
responsibility you assign to your household helper are also
determining factors for salary levels. The average minimum monthly
salary for full-time help is $200 per month. Romanians prefer to be
paid in dollars and most personnel comply due to the fluctuating
Romanian lei rates.
If you plan to bring a governess or nanny with you, notify the
Administrative Section early to initiate arrangements for the
required documentation and registration with the Romanian
If you plan to bring a governess with you, notify the
Administrative Section early to initiate arrangements for the
required documentation and registration with the Romanian
Religious Activities Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:11 AM
Romanian Orthodox is the dominant religion in Romania, but
churches of many other denominations exist. Baptist and Roman
Catholic churches in Bucharest hold services in Romanian; Lutheran
churches have services in German. A Jewish synagogue has services in
Hebrew. Services in English are also available at the Catholic,
Anglican and Baptist churches.
Romanian Orthodox Christmas and Easter celebrations are quite
beautiful and an interesting and enjoyable experience for those
interested in traditions of the Orthodox Church. Easter is a
significant event in Romania, far more so than in the United States.
The city is, in effect, closed for the entire weekend. Midnight
masses are offered in every church, and priests, choirs, and
congregations with holy candles sing and chant Easter services in
streets and squares that have been closed to traffic. Note that
those who enjoy lamb can indulge themselves at Easter: it is the one
time of the year when the meat can be found anywhere in the country.
For more information concerning places of worship, contact the
CLO upon arrival at post.
At Post Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:12 AM The American
International School of Bucharest (AISB) is an independent,
international, coeducational day school which offers an educational
program from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 for students of all
nationalities. The school was founded in 1962 under the sponsorship
of the American Embassy and is attended by many English-speaking
expatriate children. The school year consists of 3 trimesters
extended from late August through mid-June.
Organization: The school is governed by a 9-member Board of
Directors. The Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy serves as
chairperson. Embassy personnel with children enrolled at the school
are encouraged to seek seats on the board when they come available.
Curriculum: The school provides a U.S. and International
curriculum in English, suited to meet the needs of the International
student community in Bucharest. The School offers the International
Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, IB Middle Years Program (MYP) in grades
6-10, and the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) in grades K-5.
Specialists in art, drama, physical educational, music, computers,
Spanish and French serve students at various grade levels. The
School is unable to assist students with major learning disabilities
or the physically challenged. The School is accredited by the New
England association of Schools and Colleges and the European Council
of International Schools.
Faculty: In the 2004-2005 school year, there are 64 full-time and
part-time faculty members including 19 U.S. citizens, 16
host-country nationals, and 37 third-country nationals.
Enrollment: At the beginning of the 2004-2005 school year,
enrollment was 485 (rising 3-grade 12). Of the total, 106 were U.S.
citizens, 146 were host-country nationals, and 243 were
third-country nationals. Of the U.S. enrollment, 50 were dependents
of U.S. government direct-hire or contract employees and 56 were
children of parents in the private sector.
Facilities: The School’s new campus, which opened its doors in
the 2001-2002 school year to children in preschool through grade 12,
is located on a 10-hectare site north of the city center and near
the residential area called Baneasa, where the Embassy houses many
of its employees who have children. The new facility is equipped
with class rooms, a media center, a sports center/gymnasium for the
Secondary School and a gymnasium for the Elementary School, music
and art rooms, science and computer labs, a theatre, a cafeteria and
many outdoor sports facilities including areas for tennis,
basketball and soccer.
Finance: In the 2004-2005 school year, the School’s income
derives from regular day school tuition. Annual tuition rates are as
follows: Rising 3: $4,080, EC-3 (half-day): $6,500; EC-4 (full-day):
$9,000; kdg.-grade 8: $16,300; and grade 9-12: $17,350. The total
includes a non-refundable capital fee for new campus projects. There
is also a one-time application fee of $1,000 which must be submitted
with the application. The School offers no fee discounts. These fees
are payable in U.S. dollars. (All fees are quoted in U.S. dollars).
Tuition is fully covered by the Foreign Service educational
allowance grant from kindergarten through grade 12.
The School recommends that parents contact the Admissions Office
as far in advance of arrival at post as possible. Records and grades
from previous schools, a birth certificate and passport (photocopy
of front page) or proof of age are also required. The school term
consists of 180 teaching days. The calendar does not observe all
U.S. holidays, but includes a 3-week Christmas/New Year holiday and
a 1-week spring vacation. It also observes some host-country
holidays. AISB curriculum and admissions application are accessible
through their website at www.aisb.ro.
Contact information for the American International School of
American International School of Bucharest 5260 Bucharest Place
Department of State Washington, D.C. 20521 Telephone: 011 40 21 204
43 00 (Dialing from the U.S.) Fax: 011 40 21 204 43 06 (Dialing from
AISB (local Address) Sos. Pipera-Tunari #196 Comuna
Voluntari-Pipera Jud. Ilfov, Romania Director: Arnold Bieber E-mail:
The British School of Bucharest (BSB) is located in a newly
renovated property in central Bucharest. As the first British school
in Bucharest, it opened to pupils on 30th August, 2000 with 21
pupils. Since then the school has grown both in terms of the number
of children and classes. In the 2004-2005 academic year, BSB has
over 140 pupils from 30 nations and offers classes from Foundation
Stage to year 8 (7th year in the U.S. system). Current enrollment is
approximately 40 students. Class size is limited to 12 students, so
it is important to register your child as early as possible.
BSB offers a curriculum which is in line with the UK National
Curriculum. It is structured and balanced to ensure that children
cover a range of subjects, with a strong emphasis on Literacy and
The Director of the school is Mrs. Jo Wells. She can be reached
at: 011-40-21-232-5657, or e-mail: email@example.com.
The school also has a Web site: http://www.britishschool.ro.
Some Embassy children have also attended the Fundatia
International British School of Bucharest, which is located in the
heart of the city. Current enrollment is approximately 50 students.
The school accepts students from kindergarten through 6th grade
(years 1-7 in the British system). The facility is brand new with
large, sunny classrooms. Class sizes vary between 14-18 students.
The curriculum is based on the British National Curriculum, and
is statutory for all schools in England. The curriculum covers the
core subjects such as English, Math and Science.
The school principal is Mr. Jonathan Merritt and he can be
reached at: 011-40-21-252-3704 03 011-40-21-253-1698, or email:
firstname.lastname@example.org. The school Web site is: www.ibsb.ro.
The Bucharest Christian Academy (BCA) is a school committed to a
Christian English-language education for the children of
missionaries and Christian expatriates serving in Romania. Children
from diplomatic or business families are also welcome to apply to
BCA. BCA is a member of the Association of Christian Schools
International (ACSI). BCA follows an American curriculum and is an
official testing site for the ACT college entrance exam. The school
accepts students from grades 1-12, and currently has approximately
The Director is Ms. Jennifer Lipp. She can be reached at:
011-40-21-323-5887 or email: email@example.com. The school
Several other countries support schools in Bucharest, including
French, German, and Japanese schools. There are also a number of
nursery schools, such as a Montessori Educational Center, the
preschool at the Mark Twain International School, and Cherry Tree
Kindergarten. These schools offer half-day and full-day programs for
children ages 3-7. Contact CLO for more information.
Away From Post Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:13 AM Some Embassy
parents of secondary school children choose to school them away from
post. A higher, away-from-post allowance is currently authorized for
grades 9-12. One of the best sources for information about boarding
schools is The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) at HYPERLINK
http://www.schools.com. The Web site lists the boarding schools that
belong to TABS and provides links to the websites of the individual
schools. For more information on U.S. boarding schools, contact the
Office of Overseas Schools. Carol Sutherland is the Director of the
Resource Center. Her e-mail address is: SutherlandCT@state.gov.
Contact information for the Office of Overseas Schools is
202-261-8200 by telephone and 202-261-8224 by fax.
Special Needs Education Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:13 AM
Anyone with a skill to teach, especially in the area of special
education, will find that the local community is receptive, as
opportunities such as speech therapy are not available in English.
Bucharest does not have adequate teaching facilities for children
with physical or emotional handicaps or with learning disabilities.
Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:13 AM
Exceptional private instruction is available in Bucharest for the
arts, dance, music, and languages. Check with CLO or your
Recreation and Social Life
Sports Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:14 AM
Physical training is becoming increasingly common in Bucharest.
However, the costs for modern facilities that meet standards to
which we are accustomed are high. Four major hotels in Bucharest
have sports clubs that admit local memberships, and more fitness
clubs are opening in and around the city every year. Many of these
fitness clubs are the best places in Bucharest to find a good
swimming pool, Jacuzzi, or spa facilities from wet and dry saunas to
solariums, and massage treatments to facials. Many have classes such
as aerobics and yoga. AISB also offers aerobics and weight training
at a fraction of the price paid at the fitness clubs.
The Embassy also has a small workout room with a treadmill,
stair-step machine, Nordic Track, and stationary bicycle. A
Universal workout center and free weights are also available. There
is one shower room available for use by Embassy personnel.
Jogging, biking and outdoors sports within the city or its parks
can be complicated due to the heavy traffic and the stray dog
population. However, the Marines have arrangements with AISB during
the summer months to play softball with the post community. There
are also local options to play sports such as rugby or soccer.
Bowling, swimming, horseback riding, tennis, ice-skating, and skeet
shooting are available. There are areas outside of the city where
you can fish, camp, mountain bike, hike, and ski.
Recreation and Social Life
Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:14 AM
Romania has many natural and historical points of interest and
beauty. Travel restrictions do not exist in Romania. There are
certain designated areas with a crossed-out camera sign where
photography is off limits, but in general unlimited and wonderful
photo opportunities abound.
The Carpathian Mountains offer spectacular views and hiking and
camping possibilities. There are many small bed-and-breakfasts as
well as larger hotels with more modern amenities. The Black Sea
coast offers summer recreation at the beach, including jet skiing
and boating. The northeastern area is beautiful with its rolling
countryside and its famous painted monasteries. On the exteriors of
these monasteries, built in the 15th and 16th centuries, paintings
were used to illustrate religious messages and folklore for the
illiterate population. These paintings have survived hundreds of
years of exposure and the formula used to create this masterful
artwork is still a mystery.
Sinaia, located in the mountains 130 kilometers from Bucharest,
is a popular weekend getaway. Sites include Sinaia Monastery,
founded in 1695, and Peles Castle, built in the 1880s by King Carol
I. Bran Castle, often presented as “Dracula's Castle,” is nearby.
Bran’s most famous resident was actually Queen Marie of Romania,
granddaughter of Queen Victoria, who married Prince Ferdinand in
1892. She often referred to Bran as a “pugnacious little fortress.”
Approximately 10 kilometers from Bucharest is Mogosaia Palace,
built by the Brincoveanu family in 1702. Here, you can walk through
the gardens, have a meal at the restaurant or enjoy the view from
the banks of the river. Snagov Lake is also a popular destination.
Located only 40 kilometers from the city, the lake offers water
sports in summer and picnicking year round. A monastery built in
1519 occupies an island in the lake where the tomb of Vlad Tepes,
better known as Dracula, is said to be located.
Recreation and Social Life
Entertainment Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:49 AM
Social life in Bucharest is relatively limited, but new
opportunities continue to emerge. Some of the more recent ones
include a wine club, a cigar club, a new yoga fitness center, and
ballroom dance lessons. Family members can take their children to
the circus or to the zoo. The Marines also take an active role in
offering monthly social opportunities such as a Diplomatic Happy
Hour and fun theme parties.
Bucharest is host to a variety of nighttime entertainment options
such as discotheques, restaurants, opera, ballet, movies, theater
and symphony. Going to the cinema is a popular past-time at post
since films are shown in original language with Romanian subtitles.
Tickets are quite inexpensive by Western standards.
There are many good restaurants in Bucharest, although quality
can often vary. New ones are opening all the time. One can choose
from the many traditional Romanian restaurants, a few Chinese food
restaurants, numerous Italian restaurants and pizzerias, German,
French, Indian and Japanese restaurants, to name only a few.
American style restaurants and fast food outlets have also become
easier to find. Check out the web site for the local guide Bucharest
in Your Pocket at www.inyourpocket.com for a listing of popular
dining places, pubs and nightclubs.
One can spend days exploring the wealth of museums that Bucharest
has to offer. Three museums of particular interest are the Village
Museum, the Peasant Museum and the Palace of Parliament.
The Village Museum is an outdoor museum on the edge of Bucharest
approximately 10 minutes from the Hilton Hotel and approximately 20
minutes from the Marriott Hotel, near the Ambassador’s Residence.
This 15-hectare open-air museum is located on one of Bucharest’s
largest and most beautiful parks, Herastrau. Established in 1936,
the museum boasts over 200 displays of 18th and 19th century
cottages (replicas and relocated originals), farmsteads, churches,
workshops, water mills and roadside crosses from all over Romania. A
small note of interest about the Museum, it was once visited by
President Nixon. If you enter the Gift shop you can see the picture
of him taken during this visit.
The Peasant Museum, a favorite among Americans, displays 18th and
19th century exhibits, which range from painted eggs to wooden
churches, and provides a wealth of information about the diverse and
fascinating history of traditional life around the country over the
past few centuries. Housed in the basement of the museum are the
very fine textile and embroidery exhibits and the Communist
The Palace of Parliament (formerly known as the People’s Palace),
was built by communist dictator Ceausescu during the later years of
his rule. This is the second largest building in the world, after
the Pentagon. It is palatial, with immense marble rooms and
extravagant displays of architectural wealth and Romanian
craftsmanship. The Palace is near the center of the city, only 5
minutes from the Marriott and 15 minutes from the Hilton Hotel by
One can easily spend weekends in Bucharest shopping for various
types of artwork and antiques. Many shops sell traditional crafts
like linens, carpets, icons and woodcrafts. Glass and crystal are a
major attraction for most foreigners. Artisans display and sell
their works either in their own galleries or through shows and
shops. There are also large shopping centers and malls that house
modern movie theaters and a variety of stores and fast food
While there are many bookshops scattered around Bucharest, few of
these sell English books with any consistency, and selection is
limited. However, some English-language magazines, newspapers and
newsletters are available for purchase at virtually all bookstores
or magazine stands. Salinger’s English bookshop in the Marriott
Hotel hosts a weekly literature club. As an alternative, most
foreigners either bring reading materials with them and participate
in book exchanges or order books by mail. The Bucharest Employee
Recreation Association (BERA) runs a small exchange library in the
Embassy that works on the honor system. Upon arrival, the CLO
provides newcomers with a Culture Guide containing a list of
Bucharest bookstores which have English language sections.
BERA and CLO offices hold monthly events such as Artisan nights,
featuring artwork ranging from ceramics, icons, and glass work from
local artisans to wine tasting tours, and other community-oriented
events. CLO also coordinates with BERA to provide kid-friendly
events such as a summer ice-cream social and trips to the circus and
zoo. The CLO also organizes holiday events such as the annual Easter
Egg Hunt. In addition to the CLO/BERA events, the Marine House hosts
Diplomatic Happy Hour, theme parties, BBQs in spring and fall, kids’
nights, and Toys for Tots. These events are open to Embassy
personnel, American citizens living in Bucharest, individuals from
other Embassies, particularly British and Canadian, and foreign
Recreation and Social Life
Among Americans Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:15 AM The Marine Corps
Ball is the major formal event of the year. The American community
in particular looks forward to this event and formal dress is
Recreation and Social Life
International Contacts Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:49 AM Organized
groups, such as the International Women’s Association (IWA), also
provide an outlet for social activities. This group offers tours,
language classes, aerobics, children’s activities and other forums
in which to meet people. The IWA fees are low. Inquire at the CLO
upon arrival about IWA membership, and other inter-Embassy sponsored
activities, such as HASH, softball, and the British-sponsored darts
There are no restrictions on socialization with the local
population and many people develop lasting relationships with their
Romanian friends. In general, Romanians are a very generous,
friendly and gracious people. In fact, one may find their
hospitality and sense of humor difficult to resist.
Nature of Functions Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:16 AM
High-ranking Embassy officers and their spouses (Ambassador, DCM,
military attachés, and first secretaries) can expect a busy official
social life here. It is not unusual to participate in official
functions several nights a week and, on occasion, to have more than
one function a night. Due to the Embassy's relatively small size,
lower ranking officers are also often invited to more official
functions than might otherwise be expected.
Only high-ranking Embassy officers are usually invited to
functions hosted by Romanian Government officials. If invited to an
event hosted by the Ambassador, DCM, your section chief, or a
prominent diplomatic or Romanian contact, your presence is expected,
unless you have a valid reason to decline. In general, Embassy
officers are expected to take an appropriately active role in
hosting representational functions.
Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:16 AM
Calling cards are widely used. Officers of third secretary rank
and above, including the Defense and Air Attachés, should have a
supply of calling cards. Normally, 200 cards a tour are sufficient,
except for the Ambassador and the DCM, who should both have a
minimum of 400. Officers below third secretary rank have no formal
calling card requirements, but you may wish to bring some or obtain
them at post. You may wish to bring a stock of high-quality blank
note cards and envelopes.
Special Information Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:31 AM
U.S. Government employees traveling to Romania on official
business should notify the Embassy in advance of their proposed
trip. Persons visiting Romania for less than 90 days, traveling on
any type of passport, do not require a visa. Visitors who will be in
Romania for any period of time should register with the Consular
Section. New employees on diplomatic passports are announced to the
Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs by diplomatic note along with
an application form for issuance of a diplomatic identity card
Post Orientation Program Last Updated: 05/23/2005
Post orientation operates through the Sponsor program. The
Sponsorship Program is intended to help newcomers to our community
settle into their life in Bucharest and ease their transition to
their new assignment. In an effort to accomplish this, the Embassy
assigns two sponsors to each newcomer – an official sponsor
(designated by the employee’s new office) and a community sponsor
(assigned by the CLO).
The community sponsor serves as a point of contact for the
newcomer before the assignment. They ensure that assigned housing is
ready, open a commissary account, purchase basic food and household
items, and coordinate meeting the new employee and their family at
the airport. They will introduce the newcomer to other members of
the community through invitations to social gatherings and other
events. Additionally, they will familiarize the employee and their
family with the city by introducing them to the public
transportation system, and showing them places to shop, exchange
money, and eat.
Official sponsors are responsible for settling the newcomer into
the workplace. The official sponsor is someone from the newcomer’s
agency/office. This person is responsible for showing them around
the facilities, making the necessary professional introductions, and
arranging meetings with the Ambassador and DCM, as well as
scheduling appointments with other key sections – MGT, HR, GSO, B&F,
CLO, MED and RSO.
The Welcome Package, which the CLO prepares, contains useful
tools and information intended to familiarize the newcomer with the
post environment. Included in the packet are: an Orientation Booklet
that contains information such as embassy telephone numbers, medical
and security briefs and histories of the embassy buildings; and a
Shopping, Dining, Entertainment, Culture and Tourist Guide to start
you on your way around town, with information on restaurants, hair
dressers, supermarkets, cinemas, places of interest and much more.
Also included in the Welcome Package are a few local guides What,
Where, When Bucharest and Bucharest In Your Pocket, which serves as
a practical guide for newcomers, providing information about movies,
restaurants, theaters, opera, shopping and more.
Notes For Travelers
Getting to the Post Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:21 AM
Employees arriving by air are met by their sponsors. Inform the
Embassy of your travel plans in advance. If driving to post, provide
your itinerary in advance and go directly to the Chancery upon
arrival. Several Western airlines including Air France/Delta,
KLM/Northwest, Lufthansa/United, Swiss Air, Austrian Air, and all
Eastern European airlines service Bucharest through Henri Coanda
(Otopeni) International Airport, 20 to 30 minutes north of the city
center. Planes arrive daily from Frankfurt, Vienna, London, Paris,
and Rome. There are daily connections to all major cities in the
U.S. through different European points of connection. TAROM is the
Romanian National Airline and it serves most Western European
cities. Travelers must comply with the "Fly America Act" for
official transatlantic journeys.
All official shipments must be consigned to ELSO (contacted
through the State Department’s Transportation Division). Although
international shipping arrives at the Black Sea ports of Constanta
and Galati, the Embassy does not use these ports for any official
shipments. In addition, these ports receive little passenger
Bucharest can be reached by land from the surrounding countries.
The drive can be made comfortably from Budapest in 2 days (12 hours’
driving time) or from Vienna in 2 days (16 hours’ driving time).
Bucharest can be reached in 10-12 hours after crossing the Greek
border at Sere or the Turkish border at Erdinne. Employees traveling
with small children may need to add an extra day. Roads in Eastern
Europe are two-lane, and traffic is moderate to heavy by Western
standards. Motorists will encounter heavy truck traffic in the
Bucharest vicinity. Encounters with slow-moving trucks, tractors,
bicycles, motorcycles, and even horse-drawn carts are not unusual.
Allow ample time for these inconveniences. If traveling on a
diplomatic passport, a visa is required for transiting Bulgaria. Be
sure to have your papers in order before arriving at the border.
Americans coming to Romania do not need a visa for a stay of less
than 90 days, regardless of passport type. If a visa is required
once you are in Romania, the Embassy will assist you in getting one.
People traveling with diplomatic or official passports must obtain
visas in advance to travel to Bulgaria, former members of the
Yugoslavian Federation, and Yugoslavia. Persons traveling on
diplomatic passports also need to obtain visas for Greece in
advance, but they are not required to indicate the border crossing
they will use. These regulations are subject to change, so be sure
to check current regulations. After your arrival, the GSO will
register your POV locally, arrange for your vehicle's technical
inspection, and will assist you to obtain third-party liability
insurance and license plates.
You are required to obtain an international driver’s license
before driving in Romania. International licenses are available in
the U.S. from AAA; applications are available at post as well. In
addition, you must have a valid U.S. or foreign license and maintain
its validity. You must have your car’s registration papers and the
internationally recognized “green card” third-party liability
insurance (“blue card” for transiting Bulgaria) in order to drive to
Gas stations are available en route, with lead-free (“fara
plumb”) gasoline available at most stations. There are not many
full-service stations (with windshield washing and oil checks).
Carry spare belts, etc., for small emergency repairs on the road.
Some gas stations are closed in the evening. Winter driving on the
Romanian roads is very hazardous and finding safe places to stop can
be difficult. Therefore do not plan to drive to Bucharest in winter.
Avoid driving in threatening or treacherous weather, no matter how
sturdy or well-equipped your car may be.
Take extra caution when driving after dark. The roads and most
vehicles are poorly lit. People, horse carts, and livestock are
often unexpectedly found in the middle of the road. Fog is a problem
in fall and winter. Highways can be slippery when wet; beware of
dirt and mud left by farm vehicles.
International rail connections are available to Bucharest from
Western Europe via Budapest and Belgrade, as well as from other
Eastern European countries, including Russia. First-class sleepers
are available on the Western European runs. Carefully check routes
and train changes (if any) before boarding. Holders of diplomatic
and official passports might be detained at border crossings if
visas are not in order. Bring plenty of food and snacks when
traveling by car or train. Travelers should be cautious of their
personal safety on trains, particularly in the main Bucharest train
station, Gara de Nord.
Personal airfreight is sometimes slow in arriving, even from
points in Western Europe or on the U.S. East Coast (allow at least 3
weeks). Bring as much as you can in your accompanied baggage,
especially seasonal clothing, toiletries, and any special
medications. Address airfreight to:
Name American Embassy Bucharest, Romania
Please advise the GSO of the planned routing and if your
airfreight will contain any special items other than clothing (e.g.,
electrical items, cameras, jewelry, etc.). Do not ship firearms or
ammunition in your accompanied baggage or airfreight.
Normal Unaccompanied Air Freight Baggage (UAB) allowances apply,
however, there are no special weight limitations on cases or crates.
Cases or crates should be no larger than 28.3” high by 39” long by
29” wide. Larger cases will not fit into the doors of the cargo
holds of the aircraft landing at Otopeni Airport. Cases or crates
that exceed the above dimensions will be transported by truck from
other European airports.
Contact GSO regarding routing, addressing, and consignments of
surface shipments and automobiles sent to Bucharest. To expedite and
complete customs clearance procedures, send copies of the inventory
to post at least 2 weeks before the goods arrive. The inventory list
is used to prepare the import documents, which are essential to
clearing and releasing your shipment from customs. Also bring a copy
of the airway bill to post. The airway bill will help GSO in
tracking your shipment. Request that packers provide you with
notification of shipment when goods are shipped, including proposed
arrival date in Bucharest and airway bill number. Inventories of
both UAB and House Hold Goods (HHG) must specifically list special
items such as art objects, coin and stamp collections, photographic,
video, audio and electrical equipment, jewelry, and other unusual or
Route and mark household effects, airfreight, and automobile
shipments for DOD personnel according to Vol. II of the Personal
Property Consignment Instruction Guide Worldwide.
No special restrictions exist on the size of cases or lift vans
brought into Romania via surface shipment. Shipments and automobiles
usually arrive in good condition and theft has not been a problem.
Nonetheless, it is still advisable to insure your shipments and your
automobile with the proper amount of transit insurance. To avoid
personal expense, Department of Defense personnel should ship their
automobiles via Gosseline, Belgium.
Customs, Duties, and Passage
Customs and Duties Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:22 AM
Personnel may import household effects, foodstuffs, beverages,
tobacco products, automobiles, and other items duty free for
personal use during their tour of duty. Post regulations do not
permit importing arms and ammunition without prior post approval by
RSO (see Firearms and Ammunition). Also prohibited are explosives
and drugs. Official shipments of personal effects for all official
personnel are exempt from customs inspections. However, from time to
time, customs will spot check a shipment for forbidden items or
goods subject to quarantine.
All personal shipments for diplomatic and non-diplomatic
personnel must be cleared through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
and customs. Once the import documents are prepared using the UAB
and HHG inventory lists, it takes approximately 7-10 days for the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs to clear the shipment. The permit is
then taken to customs, and goods are cleared within a day. The
clearance and customs process is expedited when GSO has the
inventory list in advance of receipt of the shipment. Airfreight can
be cleared most expeditiously if GSO has the inventory list to
prepare the import documents.
Advance copies of an inventory and a copy of your orders will
allow the GSO to process your import permit and have it ready when
goods arrive. A detailed inventory is required, as well as weight
information. Official travelers may fax this information to the
General Services Office at 011-40-21-211-3114 (dialing from the
The Embassy has minimal storage facilities. GSO can store UAB
shipments in the warehouse but HHG shipments should not arrive prior
to the employee’s arrival. Shipments are normally held in ELSO,
Antwerp until the employee has arrived and is occupying permanent
quarters. Since you may spend some time in temporary quarters after
arrival, pack airfreight accordingly.
Embassy personnel order personal items in packages through the
State Department pouch address in Washington D.C.. These packages
arrive in diplomatic pouches and are not subject to inspection.
However, this should not be used to circumvent Romanian laws and/or
Embassy regulations regarding prohibited items. Diplomatic personnel
must save all receipts for all items bought during their stay in
Romania (especially items of art), whether purchased in Romania or
abroad. Submit the receipts to the GSO Shipping and Customs Unit
before departure. These receipts are attached to the export
inventory presented to Customs. Special formalities are necessary
when musical instruments are bought (e.g., pianos and violins).
Request a special export approval from the National Patrimony Office
several months in advance of shipping, as all such instruments or
objects of art must be approved for export by the National Patrimony
Personal belongings and household effects for personnel can be
exported duty free.
Automobiles for diplomatic personnel can be imported duty free.
Approximate cost to register your car upon arrival is $200 to $300.
Customs, Duties, and Passage
Passage Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:22 AM
Entering Romania involves minimum formalities for holders of
diplomatic passports, and treatment is courteous. Inspections at
Otopeni Airport have not been rigorous, but longer and more detailed
inspections occur at frontier crossings, especially for holders of
official and diplomatic passports.
Bearers of diplomatic and official passports do not need to
obtain visas before arriving at the border. Diplomats receive the
courtesy of driving to the front of the line at the border.
Immunization records are not checked unless an epidemic or other
reason warrants it. Occasionally, when hoof-and-mouth disease is in
the region, the border may be closed or traffic restricted, or
vehicles are subject to washing/tire bath. Have an international
license plate, issued by the country of sale, for new cars purchased
No special regulations restrict incoming baggage. Have a
sufficient supply of U.S. dollars or euros with you for exchange
purposes when entering the country.
Bring 20 extra passport-size photos for use in obtaining visas if
you plan to travel outside Romania.
Customs, Duties, and Passage
Pets Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:22 AM
No regulations restrict importing cats and dogs. However, new EU
regulations require pets to have a microchip implant – this could be
problematic if transiting EU countries. Always confirm requirements
with your airline. Before departure, pet owners should have their
veterinarian check their pet to ensure that it is healthy enough to
make the trip. Airlines and State health officials generally require
health certificates for all animals transported by air. In most
cases, international health certificates must be issued by a
licensed veterinarian who examined the animal within 20-30 days of
transport. Ask your veterinarian to provide proof of any required
vaccinations or treatments. Administer tranquilizers only if
specifically prescribed by your veterinarian and only in the
prescribed dosage. Properly documented animals are cleared through
customs quickly. Be sure all pet records are completely up to date
before your departure.
Please inform the Management Office early if you plan to bring a
pet. Do not ship your pet in advance of your own arrival since the
post has no boarding facilities. Since local veterinarians do not
always have vaccines, make sure your pet has all needed shots before
you come. If you anticipate a need for particular medicines or have
special requirements like heart-worm medicine or special foods, ship
a supply or make arrangements with a veterinarian to send additional
supplies in the future. Employees are financially responsible for
any damage to Embassy housing and furniture caused by pets.
Veterinary clinics are plentiful, although quality of care may
vary. One popular veterinary clinic is open 7 days a week, but it
has no emergency service. However, some pet owners have made
arrangements with local veterinarians to make house calls.
Immunizations for distemper and rabies differ from those used in the
West but can be administered at local veterinary clinics. You can
receive a list of veterinarians and pet-care providers “Tried and
True” from the CLO office.
According to local veterinarians, the greatest danger to domestic
animals is the active rodent control program instituted by the
Romanian Government. Poison is set out regularly and without notice,
especially around garbage, resulting in reports of accidental
Firearms and Ammunition Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:24 AM
The Embassy will give consideration to the importation of
firearms and ammunition on a case-by-case basis; you must receive
approval from both the RSO and the Ambassador prior to shipment. The
forms used to obtain this approval can be found on the Embassy
Bucharest website under the RSO section. If you plan to import
firearms and ammunition, carefully check current Department of State
regulations before doing so. Firearms can be purchased locally for
hunting, and the rules governing such a purchase are set by the
Hunters and Fishermen Association (AGVPS). A foreign diplomat who
wishes to buy/borrow a hunting rifle should submit a written request
to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Protocol (UFA), specifying the
desired rifle and the kind of ammunition used. After the MFA grants
written permission, ammunition may be purchased in Bucharest.
Hunting trips are possible through the National Tourist Office
(ONT), which organizes hunts and provides guides for a daily fee
plus a daily charge for room and board. Hunting is expensive in
Romania. Fees are charged per bird or animal killed. If you want the
meat, an extra charge is levied per kilo of weight. ONT also
arranges fishing permits for a hard currency fee.
Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures Last Updated:
6/16/2005 7:25 AM
The New Romanian leu (plural lei) will be the official Romanian
currency as of July 1, 2005. The tourist and diplomatic exchange
rate is fixed by the National Bank (U.S. $1=28,000 lei [March 2005])
and fluctuates daily; other banks and exchange offices often use
different rates. The previous currency, also known as the lei, will
continue to remain in circulation until December 2006. The new lei
will eliminate four zeros in the amounts cited; for example: 28,000
is equal to 2.8 new lei.
Notes and coins are both used regularly and come in a variety of
Embassy personnel and dependents buy local currency from the
Embassy cashier or at authorized outlets. Do not buy lei from
private sources. Many services, including in-country tours,
international air and train tickets, and resort hotels often prefer
hard currency. Major hotels and restaurants accept international
credit cards, but credit card fraud is common and their use is not
recommended. Currently, the Euro is the most commonly accepted
foreign currency in Romania, with the U.S. dollar not far behind.
The Bucharest Employee Recreation Association accepts U.S. personal
checks for all expenses, including commissary purchases.
The metric system is used for both weights and measures.
Taxes, Exchange, and Sale of Property Last Updated: 6/16/2005
Embassy personnel are exempt from customs duties on their
personal effects and POV. Diplomatic personnel may be reimbursed for
the value-added tax (up to 19%) paid for all goods and services
purchased in Romania. Reimbursement requests are made through the
Financial Management Office on a quarterly basis.
Personal property can only be imported for personal use. Official
permission is required in advance for selling items worth $200 or
more. The Mission follows Department regulations regarding the sale
of personal property.
Recommended Reading Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:26 AM
You will be better able to appreciate Romanian politics, history,
culture, and geography if you do some reading on the subject before
your arrival. In addition to the publications listed below, see any
available films about Romania, buy recorded Romanian music or look
for a recently published guidebook. If possible, buy a good
Romanian-English, English-Romanian dictionary.
These titles are provided as a general indication of the material
published on this country. The Department of State does not endorse
Behr, Edward, Kiss the Hand You Cannot Bite: The Rise and Fall of
the Ceausescus, Villard (May 21, 1991)
Boia, Lucian, Romania, Reaktion Books (January 2, 2004)
Burford, Tim and Longley, Norm, The Rough Guide to Romania, Rough
Guides Limited, 4th edition (November 29, 2004)
Codrescu, Andrei, The Hole in the Flag: A Romanian Exile's Story
of Return and Revolution, William Morrow & Co (May 1, 1991)
Georgescu, Vlad, Ed., Romania : 40 Years (1944-1984), Praeger
Paperback (August 15, 1985)
Georgescu, Vlad and Calinescu, Matei, Ed., The Romanians: A
History (Romanian Literature and Thought in Translation Series) Ohio
State Univ Pr (Txt) (June 1, 1991) Ioanid, Radu, (Foreword by Elie
Wiesel), The Holocaust in Romania: The Destruction of Jews and
Gypsies Under the Antonescu Regime, 1940-1944, Ivan R. Dee,
Publisher (January, 2000)
Ioanid, Radu, The Ransom of the Jews : The Story of the
Extraordinary Secret Bargain Between Romania and Israel Ivan R. Dee,
Publisher (February, 2005) Jule, Caroline, Blue Guide Romania, W. W.
Norton & Company; 1st edition (September 2000)
Klepper, Nicolae, Taste of Romania: Its Cookery and Glimpses of
Its History, Folklore, Art, Literature, and Poetry Hippocrene Books;
Expanded edition September 1, 1999
Kokker, Steve and Kemp, Cathryn, Lonely Planet Romania & Moldova,
Lonely Planet Publications; 3rd edition (July 1, 2004)
Latham, Ernest H., Ed., Husar, Al (Photographer), Skagen, Kiki,
Ed., Miorita: An Icon of Romanian Culture, Center for Romanian
Studies (June 1, 1999)
Light, Duncan, Ed., and Phinnemore, David, Ed., Post-Communist
Romania: Coming to Terms with Transition, Palgrave Macmillan (April
14, 2001) Pacepa, Ion Mihai, Red Horizons : The True Story of
Nicolae and Elena Ceausescus' Crimes, Lifestyle, and Corruption, by
Regnery Publishing, Inc., Reprint edition (April 25, 1990)
Shen, Raphael, The Restructuring of Romania's Economy: A Paradigm
of Flexibility and Adaptability, Praeger Publishers (November 30,
Stefan, Laurentiu, Patterns of Political Elite Recruitment in
Post-Communist Romania, Editura Ziua, 2004
Watts, Larry, Ed., Romanian Military Reform and NATO Integration,
The Center for Romanian Studies, 2002
Williams, Joyce Hall, A Volunteer in Romania, Buy Books on the
Web.com (1999) Regional:
Fonseca, Isabel, Bury Me Standing: The Gypsies and Their Journey,
Vintage; Reprint edition (October 29, 1996)
Kaplan, Robert D., Balkan Ghosts: A Journey Through History
Vintage Departures, Reprint edition (March 15, 1994)
Ware, Kallistos, The Orthodox Way, St. Vladimir's Seminary Press;
Revised edition (September 1, 1995)
Local Holidays Last Updated: 6/16/2005 7:27 AM
Romania observes only five regularly scheduled holidays:
New Year’s Day - January 1 and 2 Easter Monday - varies Labor Day
- May 1 National Day - December 1 Christmas - December 25, 26
The Embassy is closed on these holidays and on official American