C O N T E N T S APRIL 2011 5
REAL ESTATE Stylish Homes
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COVER STORY
NEWS Innovative Tourism Initiatives
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EXPAT CORNER
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The Romanian Expat Challange 14
TRAVEL Romanians Prepare for Holidays
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Gabriel ARSENE •
This year, during the Easter Holidays, which in Romania are full of tradition and ceremony, we have rea sons of sadness. Sadness and mercy for all the tragedies that other nations experienced earthquakes, tsunamis, wars… We cannot speak about Easter without mention ing the Holy Day that precedes it. On this day, we cele brate the revival of nature. The faithful will go to church on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter, to bless small willow branches, which they will later put by their windows, and on doors or gates, will also think at all the world’s tragedies in the last couple of months. In some areas of the country, villagers will put these branches around their waist, in the belief or hope that this will pro tect them from disease and make them stronger. The need of protection increases for all the people of the world these days. For all of you who celebrate the Easter Holidays, I wish you Happy Easter! But this period of the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere should be cele brated by everybody.
Easter in Bucharest and Romania 10
editorial SAD EASTER TIME
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WORLD WATER DAY In Romania, water has never been a problem. Maybe only when there was too much. But, marking World Water Day 2011, on March 22, a UN report said that Africa’s cities are growing at a faster rate than anywhere else in the world, stressing drinking water supplies and sani tation services. The Rapid Response As sessment by the United Nations Environment Programme and UN Habitat, “Green Hills, Blue Cities,” finds that 40 per cent of Africa’s one billion people live in urban areas where water supplies and sani tation are inadequate. Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa has grown from 100,000 to 3.5 million people over the past 50 years. In Nairobi, Kenya, the population increased from 119,000 in 1948 to 3.1 million today. Today in these
large cities of Africa many people do not get enough fresh water. These are the stark realities and the sobering facts which need to be addressed as nations prepare for the landmark UN Conference on Sustainable Development in 2012. The conference is known as Rio+20 because it is taking place 20 years after the 1992 Rio Earth Summit that set the envi ronment agenda for the world. Rio+20 is focusing on a green economy in the con text of sustainable development and poverty eradication as one of its major themes. Thus, our need here, in Europe, to care for watersheds and forests, protecting and restoring ecosystems that are impor tant as key water sources, is more and more imperative for the whole planet.
On March 21, there was a public holiday across Japan Vernal Equinox Day, transformed by law in 1948 from an ancestor worship festival to a day for celebra tion of nature. Many visited family tombs to honor their ancestors, and thousands mourned those lost in the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disaster. How could they properly celebrate, with 21,000 dead and missing friends? More than 8,450 people were confirmed dead and nearly 13,000 were reported missing in the after math of the magnitude 9.0 earthquake and resulting tsunami, according to the Japanese officials. Yet, local municipalities say an even greater number remain unac counted for! Some 14,630 buildings were destroyed, while 126,723 buildings are damaged, and at least 350,332 people have been evacuated and are staying at shelters… But the Japanese Nation is strong, and they will carry on and recover. Other news noted that following the catastrophic tsunami that struck Japan, 33 Caribbean countries held the region’s first tsunami alert test, on March 23. This re gion’s first full scale tsunami warning exercise was called Caribe Wave 11. Based on a fictitious earthquake, the exercise tested the early warning system for tsunamis and other coastal dangers, which was set up in the re gion. This exercise did not involve communities but rather tested the performance of weather forecast of fices, national coast guards and other responders. The scenario developed by organizers of the exercise called for countries in the Caribbean to receive an alert con cerning a fictitious earthquake of 7.6 magnitude off the coast of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Over the last 500 years, at least 75 tsunamis have been recorded in the Caribbean, about 10 percent of the total number of oceanic tsunamis in the world during that period. Caribbean tsunamis have killed more than 3,500 people in the region since the mid 19th cen tury. Simulated tsunami alert exercises have been organ ized previously in the Pacific in 2008 and in the Indian Ocean in 2009. People are preparing themselves to be ready to do battle with a furious nature. But was the nature al ways furious?
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NEWS, EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS NexT for Movie Fans
So, take notice: Hunt-The-Wolf-2011, April 20-23, in Cluj-Napoca. The long journey to this event is absolutely worth it, as the international contestants state. After all, only
April 6-10, Scala & Elvira Popescu Cinema Halls and Carturesti Attic
The latest short film from director Marian Crisan, “Camelia” and film “Film for friends” by Radu Jude are among the films selected in Festival Friends section of the International Festival of Short and Medium Length Movies NexT held from April 6 to 10. The festival brings expected films made by directors which are already known to the public, but also students or foreign films made by some participants to NexT past editions. Projections Festival Friends will take place on April 9 and 10, at the Scala Cin-
Performance series of the third day of the festival includes the set of cult horror duo from Manchester, “Demdike Status,” as well as amorphous noise experiments of New York artist Daniel Lopatin aka Oneohtrix Point Never. Festival ends with theatrical performance of Max Tundra. The Rokolectiv current edition stage on brings also lesserknown names: Hyperpotamus Spanish artist, who will perform a capella to four microphones and a loop pedal.
Al Di Meola Concert
April 21, Sala Palatului
One of the jazz consecrated, Al Di Meola, will return to Bucharest on April 21, when he performs at Sala Palatului a special concert with his band “New World Sinfonia.” In love with jazz fusion experiments, Al Di ema, at 15:00. From the ten films that make up the Friends Festival program, four will have the premiere: “Camelia”, the latest short film of the director Marian Crisan, “Film for friends”, by Radu Jude, and the comedies “Bora Bora” (directed by Bogdan Mirica) and “Manual Count” (directed by Daniel Sandu). In the same program you may also find, the films “Stanka Goes Home” (Bulgaria), “Thermal Spa” (Belgium) by Banu Akseki and “Only T” (Belgium). The section “They’ve Also Been NexT Generation” will present the debut feature films made by three previous participants in the NexT. Marian Crisan will be present with “Morgen,” Sophie Barthes with “Cold Souls” (USA, 2009), and the third film is “Las Malas Intenciones/Evil Intentions” (Peru/Germany/Argentina, 2011, directed by Rosario Garcia Montero), which premiered this year at the Berlin International Festival.
Rokolectiv at the Museum
April 14-17, Contemporary Arts Museum
Rokolectiv 2011 edition of the electronic music festival and related arts will take place between April 14 and 17, at the Museum of Contemporary Art and will include concerts, performances, installations and film projections. This year’s program oscillates between optimistic beats and diffuse horror performance. “Zombie Zombie” return to Bucharest with a new show inspired by John Carpenter, as well as Jimmy Edgar, with his latest album, “XXX”. Members of the Austrian trio “Elektro Guzzi” are called to do what they know best: techno instrumental in the classic rock formula, with bass, guitar and drums. “Isolée” comes back in the spotlight following the launch of a new album, while “The Mole” and “Jozif” will ensure the hot portion of the dance beats.
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Bucuresti what, where, when
Hunt-The-Wolf is 100% Off Road, from the first kilometer to the last - and that over 3 and a half days long! Dare! Or are you afraid of the bad wolf?
Tango, at the Operetta
The National Musical Operetta Theatre
Meola is currently one of the most prominent representatives of the genre. His special technique has paved his way towards a great career, while the passion and depth of his creative spirit brought him fans worldwide. On the stage from Sala Palatului Al Di Meola will perform with his band: Fausto Beccalossi (accordion), PEO Afonsi (acoustic guitar), Peter Kaszas (percussion), Gumbi Ortiz (percussion) and Victor Miranda (bass).
The Operetta Theater launched “Maria de Buenos Aires”, a show produced by Mario Radacovsky (directed and choreographed), from Slovakia, with music by Astor Piazzolla. The play “Maria de Buenos Aires” tells a story about life, death and rebirth, the story of Mary, the main character, who becomes the embodiment of a passionate, destructive, decadent Buenos Aires, but who is able to save herself just by playing and understanding her destiny.
Hunt-The-Wolf-2011
April 20-23, Cluj-Napoca
April is the month of the wolf. For the fifth time ATVs, Quads and Side-by-Sides gallop through the wooded hills of Transylvania, by night and in the sunshine, over plains and valleys. The toughest ATV race in Europe excites everyone with its difficult offroad routes, with the number of prizes to be awarded, with excellent organization. Actually, the organizers (Authentic-Spirit, PrimulATV-Magazin and Foxracing) are very experienced pilots themselves! Of course, there are several categories, suited for both extreme and moderate pilots, for ATV, Quad and Side-by-Side, because the organizers don’t want any of the competitors to be over- or under-worked.
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Astor Piazzolla, a central figure in contemporary tango, is famous for the change that has brought to the traditional tango, by shifting the emphasis of the dance space to
which it was intended this music to a more complex composition. The cast includes Diana Nitu, Anca ?urcasiu Alexander Agarici, Catalin Petrescu, Andras Istvan Demeter, the Ballet Ensemble and the National Operetta Theater Orchestra.
conditioning, Outer, urban development, Industrial machinery and site equipment, Consultancy, design, Entrepreneurship and execution
SINECTICO – Book Friends Meeting
For 5 days, Expo Flowers will be hosted at premiere venue, Romexpo Exhibitions Centre, Romania. Being organized by Romexpo SA, the show is directed towards
Expo Flowers
April 6 – 10, Romexpo Exhibitions Centre
April 27, Media Hall, The Minister of Culture and National Heritage
Under the high patronage of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, the Literary Agency Talk Partners and CSR Nest Association organizes the second edition of SINECTICO - Book People Meeting. The event is a unique on the books market in Romania and will be held Wednesday, April 27, marking the World Day of Books and Copyright. In the Media Hall of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage will meet over 200 people: representatives of
the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, publishing executives, writers, translators, directors of copyright, representatives of the National Copyright Office in Romania, UNESCO, literary agents in Romania and abroad, students and graduates in Translation Studies, media representatives. Sinectico is not a book fair, but the adequate framework to reach a consensus through discussions, debates, workshops, interaction, openness and communion. Sinectico claims the book - the instrument that helped us more than 500 years to constantly revolutionize our world. The event is unique in Romania and has the potential to change the mentality and become a cultural landmark in the Balkans. During Sinectico 2011 the Minister of Culture and National Heritage will have a press conference, a multimedia presentation and public debate on copyright issues, literature - fiction / nonfiction, trends, problems and solutions. For details on participation in the event you can contact the organizers, Cristina Tatareanu and Sergiu Sebesi by: office@talkpartners.ro; www.worldbookday.ro
Gipsy Kings Live!
April 9, Sala Palatului
Two categories of tickets to the Gipsy Kings concert on April 9, are sold! Other four
categories of tickets are on sale, of which two categories have different promotions with discounts! The concert will take place on April 9, at Sala Palatului and part of the Gipsy Kings World Tour 2010-2011. Those who wish to see live Gipsy Kings may take advantage of various discounts. Even more... those who register on www.projectevents.ro - after having bought tickets for promotions, have a chance to win a trip to Milan (for 2 persons)! Gipsy Kings originate from France and became famous because of their unmistakable musical style! They founded the band in 1987 and although over time there have been changes in their structure, the mood and energy of their shows remained unchanged! Tracks such as Bamboleo, Volare, Djobi Djoba, Escucha Me became hits, bringing the talented artists in the international public spotlight. Tickets are available at the Unirea Shopping Center, Sala Palatului, Diverta shops, bookstores Adevarul, Eminescu bookstore, Victoria store - Midola Music, Music Store, Children’s National Palace, Unirii 1 metro station or online on www.biletoo.ro, www.myticket.ro, www.bilete.ro, www.blt.ro. The event is organized by the Project Events and supported by Magic FM!
tapping emerging opportunities of Agriculture sector. Here trade professionals will find a viable platform for meeting and exchanging ideas under one roof. The show will attract people from Flower and plant collections, florist supplies, floral arrangements, floral decorations, flowerpots and many other sectors.
Expo Drink & Wine
International wine and spirits exhibition April 18 – 21, Romexpo Exhibitions Centre
The experience of the previous 13 editions recommend this exhibition as the most important event in Romania, bringing to-
Fairs & Exhibitions Construct Expo
April 13 – 17, Romexpo Exhibitions Centre
Construct Expo became, during its 17 years of existence, the platform for presenting efficiently solutions for the construction field in Romania. The main reason for organising Construct Expo is that Romania represents one of the most important market in European Union, for urban and infrastructure development and, as a result, the demand for the latest construction equipment, technologies and materials is constantly growing. Construct Expo is addressed to all companies that activate within the construction field and also to the visitors which are interested in consultancy and acquisition of systems and materials, installation and equipment, tools and technologies for construction. The group of products at this fair are: Construction products and systems, Electrical and sanitary installation, heating and air-
gether traditional producers of wines and spirits, distributors and manufacturers of equipment used in the winemaking process in order to promote Romanian wines on international market. The main branches of the fair are: Wine, Sparkling wine, Other wines, Champagne, Alcoholic beverages – alcoholic drinks, Machinery and equipment used in the wine and spirits processing, Devices used for wine and spirits storage, Associations and publications.
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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Romanian Beer Market - Decline The unstable economic environment in 2010 resulted in a decrease of the beer market by 3.5% over the previous year, reaching a total volume of 17 million hectoliters. In the last two years the beer market declined by 16% compared to 2008, the year when the beer sales volume reached a maximum quota of 20.2 million hectoliters. Beer consumption per capita in 2010 recorded a value of 78 liters, continuing the descending trend started in 2009 and proving the fact that the economic situation has affected consumers and their consumption habits. The Members of “Brewers of Romania” Association – Bergenbier, Heineken Romania, Romaqua Group, United Romanian Breweries and Ursus Breweries - despite the difficult situation, have invested 51 million Euros last year. “Beer is a national industry, the most recent statistics showing that 99% of beer consumption in Romania is covered by domestic production,” told us Jan Derck van Karnebeek, president of the “Brewers of Romania” Association. At this point the five companies members of the “Brewers of Romania” Association reached a total volume of 15.3 million hectoliters, with 4.4% less compared to 2009, and offer a total of over 4,100 jobs in the 10 beer factories located in several cities all over the country. The beer industry generates a total number of 96,400 employees, in its factories and also in related sectors such as hospitality, retail, suppliers, and distributors. Consumer’s preferences in terms of packaging were kept constant: PET holds a percentage of 49.3%, 31.7% the glass bottle, the can is 16% and 3% the beer on draught. “Although the beer industry in 2010 faced a series of
GEORGE ENESCU PHILHARMONIC
Thursday/Friday, April 14/15, 19:00
1-3, Franklin St., Ph.: 021-315-0024, www.fge.org.ro All concerts begin at 19.00 hours and are held at the Athenaeum Concert Hall.
Elgar – Concerto for violin and orchestra, Sibelius – Symphony no. 3 The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Mikhail Agrest, Soloist: Remus Azoitei
Friday, April 1, 19:00
Sunday, April 17, 11:00
Guillaumme Connesson - Aleph (p.a.), Lalo – Spanish Symphony, Florent Schmidt – Salome’s Tragedy The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Alain Paris, Soloist: Mihaela Martin
Saturday, April 2, 19:00 Organ recital - J. S. Bach, L. Alexandra, B. Bartok, F. Liszt Soloist: Ilse Maria Reich
Thursday/Friday, April 7/8, 19:00 Beethoven –Edgemont Overture, Concerto no. 3 for piano and orchestra, Symphony no. 4 The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Anthony Negus, Soloist: Cristian Beldi
Saturday, April 9, 19:00 Cameral concert organized in partnership with Italy Embassy Program: Verdi, I Solisti di Napoli
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Concerto for Palm Sunday (Flower Day in Romanian) Symbol Choir, Conductor: Jean Lupu
changes due to the economic recession, strongly affecting the level of investment and labor, and also the closure of some breweries, we want to maintain stability and also the recovery of this sector with a mainly local production.”, said Constantin Bratu, General Manager of the “ Brewers of Romania “ Association.
• New Members of “Brewers of Romania” Association Starting this year, two new members have joined the “Brewers of Romania” Association, which opens the representativeness activities to manufacturers of malt and hops. Thus, Soufflet Malt Romania and Association of Hops Producers from Romania will support the efforts to promote the beer culture in Romania, to educate consumers about responsible consumption of beer and to inform about the benefits of this beverage made from natural ingredients. These two raw material producers operate their activities in Romania in nine factories and farms and mobilize a total number of 134 employees. „Brewers of Romania” Association was established in 2004 and represents the beer producers from Romania, both locally and internationally. Since January 2008, the organization is a member of the “Brewers of Europe” Association, considered the voice of the European beer industry in front of various international institutions and organizations. Founded in 1958, in Brussels, the organization has today 27 members and represents the interests of approximately 4,000 producers of the beer industry in Europe and defends the interests of over 2.5 million people who owe their jobs to production and beer selling.
Enescu” Philharmonic – the 60-th anniversary of the choir. Conductor: Brian Wright, Soloist: Ion Bogdan Stefanescu – flute, Ion Ivan Roncea – harp
BUCHAREST NATIONAL OPERA 70 72, M. Kogalniceanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-313-1857; www.operanb.ro
Friday, April 1, 18:30
with UNITER support. Great Hall of the National Theater
Wednesday, April 20, 19:00
Friday, April 8, 18:30
Thursday, April 21, 19:00
AIDA EVENT SHOW.
Saturday, April 9, 11:00
EASTER CAROLS Soloist: Felicia Filip
HARAP ALB - PREMIERE SEOB Show. Ballet for children.
Thursday, April 28, 19:00
Saturday, April 9, 19:00 MADAMA BUTTERFLY
Sunday, April 10, 11:00
Tuesday, April 19, 19:00
CARMEN
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS
G. F. Handel & J. S. Bach with Romanian Brass Ensemble Conductor and soloist: Adrian Petrescu
Saturday, April 2, 11:00
Sunday, April 10, 19:00
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM SEOB Show.
La BOHEME EVENT SHOW.
Saturday, April 2, 19:00
TANGO EMOCION SEOB Show.
La TRAVIATA EVENT SHOW.
Thursday, April 14, 19:00
Sunday, April 3, 11:00
RITA SEOB Show. Opera rara
Thursday/Friday, April 21/22, 19:00 Liszt - Via Crucis, Concerto no. 1 for piano and orchestra, Preludes The Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic – the 60-th anniversary of the choir.
Thursday/Friday, April 28/29, 19:00 Haydn – Symphony No. 28, Mozart Concerto for flute, harp and orchestra in do major, KV 299, Beethoven – Symphony no. 3, „Heroic” The Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George
Bucuresti what, where, when
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Wednesday, April 13, 19:00
HANSEL AND GRETEL
Friday, April 15, 19:00
Sunday, April 3, 19:00
BEETHOVEN EVENING SEOB Show.
TANGO.RADIO AND JULIET
Saturday, April 16, 19:00
Wednesday, April 6, 19:00 SPECIAL RECITAL SEOB Show.
Thursday, April 7, 19:00 SPECIAL RECITAL SEOB Show.
Thursday, April 7, 20:00 LA TRAGEDIE DE CARMEN After Peter Brook, Jean Claude-Carrière and Marius Constant. Co-production ONB - TNB,
NABUCCO EVENT SHOW.
I QUATTRO RUSTEGHI - PREMIERE EVENT SHOW. Conductor: Vlad Conta
Sunday, April 17, 11:00 HARAP ALB SEOB Show. Ballet for children.
Sunday, April 17, 19:00 I QUATTRO RUSTEGHI - PREMIERE EVENT SHOW. Conductor: Vlad Conta
AMADEUS SEOB Show.
Friday, April 29, 19:00 TANGO EMOCION SEOB Show.
Saturday, April 30, 11:00 PETRICA AND THE WOLF
Saturday, April 30, 19:00 LE CANTATRICI VILLANE National Opera performances begin at 19:00, starting March 1, and only longer performances to which the end would exceed 22:00, will remain scheduled at 18:30. Opera management’s decision came at the request of many spectators who have requested a change in start time of performances to be reached in time at the Opera. From the current repertoire of the institution, one show “Faust” by Charles Gounod is scheduled at 18:00. For each show, start time is specified on the institution’s website - www.operanb.ro, the calendar section.
real estate
Stylish Homes for the Middle-Upper Class Despite of the Romanian never-ending crisis, lately, more and more people living in Bucharest wish to buy flats located in small dwellings. The residents of Bucharest wish to escape from the block of flats built during the communist regime, forming large neighbourhoods, all with the same structure, deprived of personality and often really unsightly, hosting hundreds of families in just one unit and several tens on each entrance. Many people dream about a home on the ground, about a different life style, but they cannot yet afford an individual home. According to Diana Metiu from International – Real Estate PR Agency, the middle class and the upper middle class refer to the stylish real estates with a low height regime (GF+3 or GF+4), with a structure similar to that of a house on the ground, feature that offers the residents an increased sense of comfort. Such block of flats consists of maximum 3-4 apartments on each level, which makes for a total of maximum 20 families - a small community that can enjoy more privacy. If we were to draw the profile of the people buying apartments in low height blocks, they would have the following distinctive features: Couples over 30 with 1 or 2 kids, people with a higher need of security and stability, whose monthly income vary around EUR 2,000. The space required by these young families does not exceed 150 sqm and the apartments within small blocks can easily meet such need, as the average surface of a 2-room apartment is of 110 sqm, whereas the 3-room apartment benefits of a 140 sqm area. The share of the 4-room apartments is very low and these are usually built as duplex or penthouse, say real estate consultants. Regarding the transaction price of the apartments within the new and stylish real estates with 3-4 levels, they are very competitive - starting from EUR 80,000. Following the participation at a real estate fair, an increase in reservation pacts signing and sales for special residences it’s a normal phenomenon. The next is scheduled for May!
Although the Bucharest residential market is constantly expanding and changing, both as regards the luxury homes, and those for the middle class, the strong lack of land plots adapted for type constructions hinders the appropriate and normal development of this sector leading to permanent price increase and the development of the assemblies on height. In spite of this, the demand for apartments or dwellings in the areas surrounding Bucharest has increased significantly. Factors like the urban crowding, the difficult traffic or the pollution determine the selection of a residence located in an area close to the capital (e.g. Otopeni, Berceni, Cernica, Chitila or Buftea), and the buyers are not discouraged by the distances they have to travel from home to the office or to other destinations within the city. At present the requirements related to the assemblies refer mostly to the gas, running water supply, parking spaces and appropriate roads and not to the additional facilities offered by the projects of the developers (supermarket, kindergarten or sports ground), says real estate specialists. The buyers are not discouraged by the long completion period of the dwellings either, as they prefer to contract an apartment or a villa even in a project state. The advantage consists of a lower price in comparison to the price of the completed construction. The high prices of the dwellings located in residential areas outside Bucharest are laid down by the outlining of the Metropolitan Area of Bucharest, which shall include the locations surrounding the capital on a distance of 30-40 km. The expansion of such projects will determine the diversification of the market resulting in a tight competition among the real estate developers. For the buyers this means the opportunity to compare the offers and select one of them, a more diversified range and much lower costs, but it seems this image will become reality to the current and future residents of Bucharest in the remote future.
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cover story
We are not exaggerating at all if we are saying that spending your Easter in Romania might be the most picturesque experience of your lifetime. Bucharest in itself is a show, and I don始t mean the numerous musical or artistic performances organized in the city during this period of time, but the street as a show, the many fairs and exhibitions which can be visited in the area of the museums, in the central part of the city, but especially on the streets. The fairs spread across the city range from traditional to modern, mixing the local southern elements with those from other regions of the country, and offering both hand-crafted and highly technical objects. At the other end of the spectrum there are the shining brand name shops and the malls, all of which prepare for the celebration with bright colors and special offers.
Sorana Man
Easter in Bucharest and Romania 6
Bucuresti what, where, when
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tarting Friday, April 15, until Sunday, April 17, artisans from all regions of the country come to celebrate Palm Sunday at the Museum of the Romanian Peasant. They come to this fair with wood objects, pottery, woven materials, toys, musical instruments, hand-made jewelry, dyed eggs, painted furniture and icons. You can also find, at Clubul Taranului (Peasant’s Club), traditional Romanian sweets, wine and palinca (a strong spirituous drink) and, of
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course, lots and lots of flowers, scented and colorful, like only in April you can find. Many Romanian names are reminiscent of a flower and tradition says you should give that person a bouquet as a gift, especially on Palm Sunday (Flower Day in Romanian). Strolling through the fair, you can enjoy egg-dying demonstrations, pottery workshops with the artisan Jorj Dimitriu, naive painting exhibition of the artisans Ioan Maric and Gheorghe Ciobanu, and a theater play on Sunday, April 17, at 12:30, with the children group of the theater workshop of the museum, coordinated by Beatrice Iordan, The Fairy from the Three-branch Oak. You can continue your tour at the
„Dimitrie Gusti” Village Museum on the shores of Herastrau Lake. The fair that takes place here on Palm Sunday offers a wide range of traditional goods as well as demonstrations by the artisans who make them. Along the alleys winding past traditional peasant houses, some dating from the 18th century, craftsmen from all regions of Romania practice their skill in painting, sculpture and weaving. Many stands are devoted to Easter eggs and you can see just how varied our traditions are in this respect. Moreover, the walk is quite pleasant, the white petals of the plum trees show the way, old houses and the people around them make for a delightful half day experience. You will find jewelry made of wood, clay, beads or tissue, painted furniture, carpets and traditional masks. If you are hungry or just want to try Romanian food, you will find a stand at the entrance where different
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regional dishes are freshly prepared and served. In the heart of the city, at Sala Dalles, near Piata Universitatii, there is a more modern fair. You’ll still find painted Easter eggs, jewelry and wonderfully crafted leather bags as well as furniture objects, though smaller in size than the ones at the Village Museum. Also this is a good place to admire the newest spring fashion collections that come in a wide range of tastes and prices. The celebration continues on the streets and particularly in Piata Universitatii and Piata Romana, where the municipality places white painted wooden huts where you can buy small objects, some handcrafted and some imported, ranging from cheap to not quite so cheap. From silver jewelry and stuffed toys to live baby rabbits, you can find a surprising variety of goods competing for sidewalk space. The picturesque grows as you get further from Bucharest and head towards other areas of the country, and the Holiday Market Tourism Fair, hosted by the Parliament Palace between March 17 and 20, offered to its visitors a large spectrum of options for spending the Easter holidays this year. Besides the tourism offices of some partners from abroad, which promoted external destinations, some regional associations for promoting internal tourism were also present with their offerings for the Black Sea Shore
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Bucuresti what, where, when
and the Danube Delta, Maramures, Bucovina, Brasov, Sighisoara, Sibiu, Prahova, Rasnov, Gorj. The local authorities also took part in this manifestation: The City Hall of Campulung, The City Hall of Alba-Iulia and the County Council of Harghita. The most important Christian holiday, Easter enjoys extremely rich traditions in most of these regions of Romania. Thus, in Maramures, on the morning of the first day of Easter, the children under the age of nine go to friends and neighbors and announce the resurrection of Christ. The host gives each one a red egg. On this occasion, the threshold of the house must be stepped over first by a boy, so that there won’t be quarrels in that household for the rest of that year. When they hear the bells ringing at Easter, the village girls go to a brook holding a small branch of sweet basil, which they dip in the water and then sprinkle each other, so they will be healthy and well thought of by everybody during the rest of the year. The eggs are dyed on the last Friday before Easter, using onion peels. The people of Maramures believe it is not proper to sleep during this day, otherwise the hay will be made wet by rain. On the next day, they organize dances. Lent is over, so parties and weddings can take place again. Oltenia is another region of the country rich in Easter traditions. An old Oltenian custom is the counting of eggs. In the past,
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it was forbidden to take eggs from the nest from the start to the middle of Lent. If you had to do it, you first had to spit on the egg. But the eggs must be taken and counted at the middle of the Lent period, otherwise the woman who lives in that house might have gone dumb. This day, called the Day of the Eggs, was eagerly awaited by the children, who helped their mothers to choose the best eggs to be coloured and decorated. The children used to especially select the eggs laid by black hens, which had a yellowish shell and were much stronger than the others. It was especially the women who celebrated this holiday, as if it were a Sunday, certain domestic activities being definitely forbidden. Those who dared to work on this day took the risk of going mad. If not they, then another member of their family surely went crazy. Following a wide spread belief, everything that was made on this day would be spoiled and nothing could be brought to an end. The region of Campulung Moldovenesc is distinguished by the complexity of symbols and by the strong faith in the miraculous power of blessing the food. Early in the morning of Easter Sunday, people go out to the church yard, where they form a circle, holding lit candles in their hands and waiting for the priest to bless the food they have put into their paschal basket. Every woman prepares such a basket, covering it with a towel
woven with motifs which are specific to the area, just as they learned from their parents. Into this basket they put poppy seeds, salt, sugar, pure wheat flower, onion and garlic on a plate, over this plate they put the “pasca” (a special Easter cake made of dough, sweet cheese and raisins), ham, cheese, red eggs, money, flowers, smoked fish, beet mixed with horse radish and other cakes. There is a special Easter night tradition which is kept only in the north of Moldavia: the young girls go to the belfry and wash the bell clapper with fresh, “virgin” water. Virgin water means that the person who took it from the well should not speak until they have washed the clapper. Early the next morning, the girls wash themselves with this water, because they want to be beautiful for the whole year and they want the boys to chase them. In the past, the young men used to choose one from among them, usually the most hardworking one, to judge them and punish them for all the mistakes they have made during the last year. Those who were found guilty were carried around the church and hit on their feet, to make sure they would not repeat their mistakes in the next year. I was telling you, a few lines above, about pasca, the traditional pound cake prepared by Romanian women at Easter, from unleavened dough. It is made on the eve of the Resurrection, on the Saturday before the Easter day, to keep it fresh. Eggs, cheese, sugar, raisins and cinnamon are a few of the ingredients used to prepare this special cake. It may be decorated with Christian and pagan symbols – the symbol of the cross, but also flowers, leaves, birds, made from dough and baked on the golden brown crust of this cake. Women bake it only for Easter. Bearing a cross in the middle, the pasca is also decorated with plaited dough on the edge, and when it is inserted in the oven to be baked, the women from the countryside make the sign of the cross with the shovel on the oven walls. Between the plaits and the crosses decorating the pasca, they usually insert cow cheese, rarely sheep cheese, salted and kneaded with yolk, wiped and smoothed with egg on top. The cake is taken to the church to be blessed by the priest during the Easter service. Traditionally, the pasca is prepared to be taken to the church by cutting it into small pieces, wrapped in napkins. Thus, it is related in the orthodox tradition to the Eucharist bread, based on which communion is prepared and from which the sacramental bread is cut into pieces at the church. The pasca pieces are taken home and kept to help the faithful participate in the blessings of the Lord, since they have the power to chase away illnesses and troubles. With cheese and raisins, chocolate and almonds – a nonconforming variant of the original product -, with milk and sour cream or nuts and chocolate chips, with vanilla, rum, orange or lemon, with figs or dates, or even rice, the pasca represents, together with the lamb stake and the reddyed eggs, the particularity of the Easter dinner, crowning the joy of the Pascal celebration. Happy Easter in Romania! www.bucurestiwww.ro
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news
Innovative Tourism Initiatives
Carpathian Tourism Cluster Romania, the first supra-regional tourism cluster in Romania, has launched several tourism initiatives to boost tourism development in the central Carpathian Mountains area. The new cluster initiatives support the promotion of cycling, rural and culinary tourism and the development and promotion of large historical and cultural events to attract new tourists to Romania. In 2011, the tourism cluster is co-organiser of the Medieval festivals in Bran, Rasnov, Fagaras and Brasov and initiator of several cultural festivals in rural areas.
The development of innovative tourism products and initiatives is the main focus of Carpathian Tourism Cluster Romania which brings together international experienced experts, local tourism companies, tourism associations and local authorities. The cluster is organised in several working groups which develop together initiatives and events of public interest. The culinary tourism working group for example promotes local food traditions and supports the integration of local products into the tourism value chain. Recently, the first cluster product “Mobile Cooking Romania” has been launched. Mobile Cooking Romania offers gourmet show events and cooking classes at spectacular places in Romania. The recently founded “cycling tourism” group is working on the devel-
N e w I t alia n E xecut ive C h ef a t Hilt on Mid March, Athenee Palace Hilton appointed Gabriele Savini as executive chef for the hotel’s outlets and banqueting services. Born in the touristic village of Senigallia, near Ancona on the Adriatic Sea, Savini moved to the capital, Rome, at a young age, where he was raised. Savini joined a hotelier school where he specialised in kitchen management, obtaining a bachelor’s degree after five years. For ten years, Savini and his wife managed their own restaurant in the town of Senigallia, an experience that enhanced his passion for hospitality, service and wine. In 2006, Savini decided to expand his horizons and share his knowledge of Italian cuisine, gaining new exposure. After spending two years in St. Petersburg, Russia, Savini took the opportunity to become executive chef at Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, Croatia. “After two years with Hilton, I now have the honor of facing new challenges and the opportunity to improve my skills in my role at Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest,” said Savini. “I feel it is the combination of passion, skill and use of authentic products that ensures a meal is enjoyable and of good palate.” Savini’s first project in his new role will be to reopen Roberto’s Restaurant, which is currently undergoing a complete renovation. Savini is confident he will ensure this revamped eatery will become the first choice for locals, the expat community and hotel guests, offering a new culinary experience.
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opment and promotion of homologated cycling routes in the Carpathian Mountains area which will be integrated into a national cycling route network. Events and festivals play an important role in the cluster´s strategy to attract new tourists and to generate added value for the Romanian tourism industry. In 2011, the largest historical and cultural festivals in Romania will be organised by the Carpathian Tourism Cluster together with the tourism development associations of Brasov and Buzau, i.e. the Medieval festivals in Bran, Rasnov, Brasov and Fagaras or the “Marienburgfest”, celebrating the 800 years anniversary of the teutonic knight´s arrival to the so-called Burzenland. All events have already been promoted abroad at the international tourism trade Fair ITB Berlin, in March.
EUROPA fes t 2011 jazz, blues , po p & classic Between May 7 – 13, EUROPAfest puts us in contact with the musical values of the entire world. Over 300 musicians from 45 countries will invade Bucharest with live performances of jazz, blues, pop and classical under the sign of authenticity - concerts, contests, workshops, jam sessions and many others waiting to be discovered by a diverse audience. Held under the High Patronage of HRH Princess Margaret and Prince Radu, since 2005, EUROPAfest provides each year a full agenda, the good music becoming the main mode of communication between artists and audience. Under the slogan “The festival offers! You choose!” the audience will oscillate between the sensuality of the blues, pop dynamics, unconventional jazz and classical virtuosity. Joy to connect to a new world just listening to a musician from another country, unusual sensations, the unknown on musical notes, all are really electrifying. The festival is a breath of fresh air in the relatively flat context of the cultural events in Bucharest. Focusing on quality and less on commercial, jmEvents, the festival organizer, is encouraging young people to get closer to the good music, offering free admission to students and pupils, subject to availability. EUROPAfest will take place in various locations to facilitate public access, but also to enable parallel events.
Timisoara - The Wine Capital Also in 2011 The eighth edition of Vinvest Timisoara International Wine Fair will be held on April 15-17, 2011, in the Exhibition Hall of the Regional Business Centre, 22, Eroilor de la Tisa Blvd. The main objective of the event is to create a modern framework to establish contacts between producers, distributors and consumers of wine and related services, to promote products in this area, and to grow a specific dynamic and complex market, which would provide an optimal ratio between price and quality. Equally, the Vinvest project aims at promoting and enhancing of the wine products on the Romanian and international market, using new methods of cooperation in relation to the manufacturer, distributor / importer, HoReCa representive, retail, and final customer, but also their integration in other interesting services (tourism, cultural events, exhibitions, etc.). The fair will also host an International Wine Brokerage Event. This event, organized for the first time for the wine sector in Romania, is an opportunity to initiate and establish new contacts with local and foreign partners in order to develop the existing business. The mobile phone will be important to test the new methods mMarketing in Romania to promote wine and winery sector of the agriculture. The scanning of the 2D codes with the mobile phone will allow access to more information than those submitted on the label of a bottle of wine, information which will help the consumers. The 2D codes are the results of the only storage and generating 2D codes platform in Romania (www.code2wine.ro) for the latest marketing method to promote wine and winery products in Europe. Finally, especially for the Easter, Vinvest provides an appropriate framework to meet the diversity of vine varieties and the authentic values of the traditional products. The access to the event is based on on-line registration, by code scanning, or on www.vinvest.ro site registrations. If you use the on-line registration for the access to the event, you have the chance to be awarded!
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expat corner
The Romanian Expat Challenge 2011 EcoXtrem challenges all the expats from Romania to take part in the greatest Romanian race. Of course, if you are eager to discover the extreme side of Romania! This is your chance to prove yourself fit for an outdoor challenge that includes map reading, fishing, rock climbing, abseiling and other extreme tests. Visit the most important sights, like the Rucar Bran Lane which borrows its greatness from the neighboring mountains and its charm from Dracula’s legends, the Curtea de Arges Monastery where you’ll find out the legend of Manole, his craftsmen and his wife, Ana,
Mateias Mausoleum and its story, Dambovitei Gorges of its rare beauty, and a traditional sheepfold where you’l1 find out more about the natural food processing. All these visits will be done in high speed in order to win the race! The race will take place on May 7-8, and will last 12 hours with the starting point from Bucharest and the finish line in Rucar- Bran Lane. The mixed teams composed of 3-4 adults each will have to pass through five checkpoints (Curtea de Arges Monastery, Mateias Mausoleum, Dambovitei Gorges, Rucar-Bran Lane) where both culture and adventure skills will be tested.
IMPORTANT Show this issue of Bucuresti WWW magazine (media partner of the event) and you’ll get a 5 % discount!
• The teams will be mixed (men and women) and compulsory com posed of 3 4adults. • The contestants are free to choose their own teammates. • Each participant will sign a regulation which includes safety measures for their participation in the adventure park activities and archery. • The participants will take full responsibility for their medical fitness to engage in an event such as the Romanian Expat Challenge. • The participants must hold a functional mobile phone to keep in touch with the organizers. • The Race is a 12 hours event and the partici pants will have to provide their own food and drinks during the day. • Each team will use their own vehicle for the race. • Each team will have a name and matching shirts. • The special equipment will be provided by the organizer, but each par ticipant must have waterproof clothing, boots with grip soles, warm clothes, t shirts, trousers. • During the challenge, EcoXtrem will not assume the risks of surpass ing the speed limits. The time schedule will be established in such a way that can be met, taking into account the legal speed limit and the traffic conditions, lunch stops, and others. The teams will be penalized
Departing from Bucharest, you will have to win the map that shows you the road to the next checkpoints. You will face challenges for your mind and strengths, challenges that require a good collaboration between team mates but also paying attention to every due that it’s given to you. Who makes it to the finish line in the shortest time wins The Race. If you think it’s over, you are not even close. In the same evening, the winning team will be celebrated in a proper party for champions, with a warm-up for the night programmed near the campfire with guitar playing! The following day the participants will visit the Bran Castle where countless legends and myths will prove to be true, the Rasnov Citadel where you’ll practice your archery skills, and Poiana Brosov with its wonderful belle view point over Brasov City!
Clue no. 1 - choose your teammates and sign up for the challenge! EcoXtrem Group, from Bucharest, has brought a new approach on the market through dynamic trekking and hiking programs, promoting the authentic values of Romania. They want to bring foreign tourists in Romania for offering them unique, genuine and original packages and events, and to present Romania at its best: hospitable people, authentic traditions that are still kept alive, wild and diverse nature.
May the best team win! For more details or for signing up please contact EcoXtrem Group – Ph.: 0725.539.272 or email: office@ecoxtrem-trekking.ro
only if they do not fit into the time limits. The important tasks for the qualifications are at the checkpoints. • Each team has to pass through all the five checkpoints from the race using the clues and the maps that are given to them. • The race will begin at 7 am and will end at 7 pm. • Each participant will have to pay the registration fee of 200 Euro at the moment of registration. The registration can be made until May 1, 2011. The registration fee in cludes 3* accommodation in a single room for one night in Bran, entrance fee for the high lighted objects, dinner and party in the first day, breakfast and lunch for the second day. In case of disqualification, the registration fee will not be refunded. • The Romanian Expat Challenge Trophy will be awarded each edition by the last winning team. The Trophy is transmissible. • The pictures taken during the event by the EcoXtrem photographers will become intellectual property of S.C. EcoXtrem SRL, therefore the company reserves the copyright over them. • The lack of fair play during the race is not accepted. Any sabotage measure against other participants will be a reason for disqualification. • Anyone who does not comply with the rules will be disqualified.
REGULATIONS
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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tourism
Romanians Prepare for Holidays The second edition of the Holiday Market tourism fair has closed its gates. The event brought “a new attitude in tourism!”, in partnership with Bucharest General City Hall and the National Association of Consumer Protection and Promotion of Programs and Strategies from Romania.
changed in reservations made from end April to October. As a consequence the charters no longer operates only from June to August, but from April to September and May, has become a favorite of the Romanians.
THE NEWEST ONLINE BOOKING SITE Holiday Market, 2011 edition, brought together over 120 exhibitors, travel agents, tourist offices and travel authorities from Austria, Indonesia, Cyprus, airlines such as Qatar Air, Romanian operators of foreign partners from countries such as Cyprus, Bulgaria, Malta , Israel, Turkey, Greece, all the regional associations tourism for promotion: Seaside - Danube Delta, Maramures, Bucovina, Brasov, Sighisoara, Sibiu, Prahova, Rasnov, Gorj, and municipalities in Campulung, Alba Iulia, Harghita County Council. The Ministry of Tourism and Regional Development has contributed with its own stand to promote Romania’s tourism brand.
Nearly 20,000 visitors, with about 10% more than last year, an increase of 1520% of holidays sold compared with 2010, revenue of approximately EUR 600,000, events and attractive presentations, over 300 press credentials, an official opening with the Alba Iulia guard presenting their honor, the presence of ambassadors of Mexico, Indonesia and the commercial attaché of Bulgaria, the USA and South Africa, a slogan of the fair which NATA agencies associated with “protection and safety for consumers,” consumer information desk, stickers with the slogan “a new attitude in tourism, “ an attractive raffle, dozens of interviews and live transmissions, visitors’ questionnaires and surveys, a new partnership
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with Bucharest City Hall – these are many reasons that make Holiday Market a successfull tourism fair! Holiday Market is the only International Tourism Fair held in a world tourist attraction, considered a symbol of Bucharest and Romania – the Parliament Palace.
WHAT ROMANIANS BUY? The request was directed mainly to foreign holidays (65 -70%). Romanian tourists are seeking larger discounts to holiday abroad than in Romania, while the forecast announcing a slight increase in prices for destinations like Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria, generated by the absence of the Egypt from
the market, prompted visitors to take advantage of the excellent early booking discounts offered by the exhibitors, of 5% - 30%. Regarding the structure of budgets allocated for package holiday tourists, about 65% of the Romanians are willing to spend 350-650 Euros per pack, while those who pay on a holiday between 650 and 1,000 Euros amounts to 20%. Bus circuits are preferred by 12% of the Romanian, who alocate for this type of travel a budget of 350 Euros and only one or two percent of the visitors allow their vacations more than 1,000 Euros. There is a change in travel behavior of the Romanians. The preference for the three summer months of the traditional holiday
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Eximtur, one of the most important agencies in Romania, launched FLY.ro, the new portal for online flight booking in Romania. FLY.ro provide both online ticket booking for line and low-cost flights and specialized assistance and advice through the ticketing team consisting of professional staff available 24 hours from 24. The website provides all information you need for planning a trip - routes and flight schedules, special offers, information about airports and airlines, accommodation choice in destination cities, travel insurance and holidays offers.
ALBENA IN FORCE The officials from Albena resort, on the Bulgarian coast, estimate for this year a five percent increase in the number of Romanian guests, to around 32,000 tourists. “We expect that in 2011 more and more families choose to spend holidays in Albena. Still predict a steady and healthy growth in Romania’s market,” said Margita Todorova, Marketing & Sales Director, Albena JSCo. This year, Albena welcomes tourists with special packages for Easter holidays and for May 1. For summer season, early booking discounts up to 20% are applied by 30 April and 10% up to May 31. Offer of the moment is the 5-star Grand Flamingo hotel,
for which special rates and packages are available with various extra options, but in late May will open also the newest hotel in the resort, Sandy Beach, built on the former hotel Orlov structure. All renovations will be completed in the Primorsko Club, administrated also by Albena JSCo. This year, in the resort from the south Bulgarian coast - near Burgas and the border with Turkey - will have an extra pool, a restaurant renovated and new animation team. In addition, the complex of villas in Primorsko will go in 2011 on the All Inclusive scheme, similar to that from Albena. Albena resort offers guests the opportunity to experience different dishes from international cuisine at no additional cost. Through the “Dine Around”, guests staying at least seven nights under All Inclusive or Ultra All Inclusive up to July 8, and after August 26, may choose to serve one dinner and one lunch at one of the themed restaurants in the resort (French cuisine, Mexican, Italian, European, local, etc.).
TUNISIA AWAITS TOURISTS The Tunisian Embassy in Bucharest organized in March numerous information meetings chaired by Saloua Bahri, Ambas-
officials came with the most important tourism statistics from the previous year and with up to date on newly inaugurated attractions. If you visit www.visitcostadelsol.com, you will find a broader range of information in different languages. It also offers a collection of high-resolution photos. So, let’s go! After crossing a dense mountain range, known as “Los Montes”, on a softly descending slope overlooking the Mediterranean Sea emerges Malaga, a cosmopolitan and millennial city that is the capital and heart of the Costa del Sol. With more than 600,000 inhabitants and a growing economy in full development, Malaga is known by the well-deserved qualification of “Southern Europe’s Capital”. Malaga has become an important tourism centre, an international meeting place, and the economic
capital of Andalusia. Malaga is connected with the most important cities of the world through its international airport. The arrival in Malaga late last year of the high-speed AVE train marked a milestone in the flow of travel to the Costa del Sol. The coast of Malaga is clearly divided in two different regions: the eastern, where residential tourism is clearly dominant, and the western region, featuring an overwhelming hotel infrastructure. The western Costa del Sol is practically a lineal town stretching from Malaga city to the village of Manilva bordering with the province of Cadiz. Starting from Malaga city, the type of tourism varies according to the region: Torremolinos with a diversified hotel offer; Benalmádena, featuring a highly developed coastline; Fuengirola, registering a preponderance of middle class and family tourism, while the elite tourism is in Mijas Costa. On the eastern Costa del Sol, tourism also varies as the distance from Malaga increases. The first tourist resort is Rincon de la Victoria with a silvery beach three kilometers long refreshed by the calmness of a scarcely profound blue sea. From here, you can drive up to Macharaviaya, a typical and very picturesque Andalusian village. The next resort is Torre del Mar, the coastal strip of Velez-Malaga, with four kilometers of sunsplashed sandy beaches. Algarrobo, a village that has preserved its Arabic layout, is not far away. A near-perfect climate and amazing ample beaches are no doubt a necessary requirement, but obviously not the only ones, for the development and upkeep of an important tourist segment. Costa del Sol provides one of the most significant hotel selections in Spain.
sador of Tunisia in Romania, actions to present the political situation from Tunisia, stable after the democratic revolution of 14 January 2011, but also the Tunisian tourism. Tunisia, a special destination for Romanian tourists, expects again guests with special packages and with the unique charm of this country.
ROMANIANS CHOOSE THE SUNNY COSTA DEL SOL Patronato Provincial de Turismo de la Costa del Sol together with Costa del Sol Contact Center and the most important tourism companies on the Costa del Sol, presented this great sunny region of Spain. Together with the region presentation, the www.bucurestiwww.ro
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ESSENTIAL INFO • HOTELS • MUSEUMS • SHOW BIZ CULTURAL INSTITUTES • CITY MAP Rely on these pages for guidance on where to go and what to do during your visit. All telephone numbers are in area code 021, unless noted, and the letter/number combinations at the end of listings are coordinates for the map (back cover). For subway map see also the back cover. Locations marked with a red square 7 D are situated in Old Town.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
VISAS
Police - Like all cities, Bucharest too has dangerous
EU and American citizens with a valid passport can visit for 90 days with no visa requirement. All other visitors will need a visa. Visas should be obtained prior to the arrival, from Romanian Diplomatic Missions’Offices in your country. A list of the nations for which a Romanian visa is required can be found at www.mae.ro. Three day transit visa: US$ 15/25. One entry visa: US$ 25, multiple entry visa US$ 60. For a few exceptional situations a 10-day special visa can be obtained at customs, entering Romania. For visa extensions and other information go to the passport office at 29, Nicolae Iorga St., near Piata Romana.
spots; however, it is considered a safe city in European terms. The city center is usually safe, but at night be careful in parks and peripheral areas. Emergency Police number: 955;
General Emergency number: 112 for Police, Ambulance & Fire Department Health Services - Dial 9611 for the ambulance public non-stop service. There are also private ambulance services: dial for Puls 9737 or 021-243-1333, for Doris 978 or 021-335-5065, for SOS Medical and Ambulance Services 9761 or 0722-333-000, for Village Medical Clinic Ambulance 0723-343-219.
TELEPHONES
PRIVATE CLINICS & EMERGENCY HOSPITALS
The payphones in the city are phone card operated. When calling into Romania, you need to dial the international access code (00), country’s code (40), the city code (without the initial 0 - 021 for Bucharest), then the subscriber’s number. When dialling a mobile number from abroad, the initial 0 is also dropped. Romanian city codes (selected): Brasov (0268), Constanta (0241), Bucharest (021), Cluj (0264), Sibiu (0269), Sinaia (0244), Timisoara (0256). International country codes (selected): Australia (61), Austria (43), Belgium (32), Canada/US (1), Danmark (45), France (33), Germany (49), Greece (30), Hungary (36), Irealand (353), Israel (972), Italy (39), Japan (81), Moldova (373), Netherlands (31), Poland (48), Romania (40), Russia (7), Spain (34),
Ph. 021-327-1188 ; • 2, Staicovici St, Opera Center. Ph 021-412-0110 • 12, G Enescu St, Ph. 021-316-5876/77/78
TRANSLATORS
NON-STOP PHARMACIES
Translingua: 306, Calea Mosilor, Bl. 56A, Ap. 11 Ph.: 021-211-70-46, 0722-250-908; Fax: 021-211-70-46. www.translingua.ro Prosper - ASE Language Centre: 2, Calea Grivitei St., 2nd floor, room 4211; Ph./Fax: 021-211-78-00. www.prosper.ro Talk Partners: Ph.: 0771-540-479; 0724-353-215; www.talkpartners.ro. www.diamondo.ro Central European Translation: 19, Unirii Blvd., Bl. 4B, 1st Entr., 4th floor, Ap.13; Ph.: 021-336-28-25; Fax: 021-336-27-24. www.cet.ro Serious Business: 3, Corneliu Coposu Blvd.Bl. 101, 1st floor, Apt. 17. Ph.: 021-321-46-41; Fax: 021-320-33-13. www.serious.ro The Central Post Office is at 10, Matei Millo St. (near the Phone Company building on Calea Victoriei). www.posta-romana.ro Open: 7:30-20:00. Closed Sunday.
MONEY Money can be exchanged at banks, hotels and private offices (Casa de schimb valutar). There can be major differences in rates, especially between the banks and the private exchange offices. Changing money in the street is illegal and inadvisable. Bank notes are in the following denominations: LEI 1,00; 5,00; 10,00; 50,00; 100,00 and 500;00. Coins: Bani 1; 5; 10; 50. Banks are open weekdays from 8:30 to noon and from 14:00 to 16:00. Bucuresti what, where, when
Emergency Clinic Hospital: 8, Calea Floreasca, Ph. 021-317-0171; 021-317-0121 Medico Clinique: 9, Visarion St., Ph. 021-650-7060, 021-315-5426 /27 www.medico.ro Medicover Medical: Centre96, Calea Plevnei, Ph. 021-310-4410 Ophthalmology Emergency Clinic Hospital: 1, Piata Lahovari, Ph. 021-319-2753
Unirea Medical Center: • 57, Unirii Blvd,
There is no problem with finding a pharmacy in your neighborhood, no matter where you are in Bucharest. Here are some pharmacies with nonstop service: Farmacia Verde: 15, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph. 021-230-1451 Sensiblu: 65, Calea Dorobantlor, Ph. 021-211-1127, Farmadex: 19, N Titulescu Blvd, Ph. 0744-650-078 MedFARM: 34, I.C. Bratianu Blvd, Ph. 021-315-2309
DENTISTS Alpha Dent Company: 300, Calea Calarasilor St., Ph. 021-321-3099
POST OFFICES
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Biomedica International: 42 Eminescu St., Ph. 021-230-8001
Dent Elysee: 51, J.L. Calderon St., Ph. 021-312-3300; 0723-380-498 Dent Estet: 15, Aviatorilor Blvd. Ph. 021-222-1108 7, G. Alexandrescu St, Ph. 0723-602-020
HEALTH CLUBS & SPA BUCHAREST FitClub: With customized fitness routines and body rituals, FitClub invites guests to indulge in a new wellness dimension. For details and advice on customized packages, please call us at 021201 5077. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, 2nd floor, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Bucharest
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Fit & Fun Club: The club is complimentary to all hotel guests and offers the possibility to relax and feel in perfect shape at the same time. You can enjoy the swimming pool & whirlpool, sauna, Jacuzzi, or be active and try the fully equipped gymnasium or the tennis courts. Personal trainer available for a monthly fee. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 08.00 – 23.00. Diplomatilor Club: 1, Minovici Alley. Ph.: 021-222-8497; 0722-328-758. Open: daily 9:00 - 18:00 Eden Spa: 39, Primaverii Blvd., Ph.: 021-316-8148; 0721-321-294. Open: Mon - Fri 9:00 - 21:00 . Sat 9:00 - 18:00 Grand Hotel Continental Spa: The Spa is a calm and peaceful retreat with relaxation facilities including a maxi jacuzzi, massage salons and sauna, providing an extensive range of body beauty and care treatments. Indulge yourself in one of these therapies and renew your energy. You will enjoy fitness and aerobic sessions with guidance from personal trainers available by appointment. You are kindly asked to check the availability of this service with the Reception. C.C. accepted. Location: Basement. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 037-201-0300. Open: Mon.- Sat. – 07:00 –21:00. Hilton Health Club: 1-3, Episcopiei St. Athénée Palace Bucharest Hilton; Ph.: 021-303-3777 ext.6808 Open: Mon-Fri 6:30 - 22:00. Sat-Sun 8:00 - 21:00 InterContinental Health Club: Public access on the 22nd floor. Full range of facilities. Sauna, massage, solarium, fitness centre, hexagonal swimming pool. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4 Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., InterContinental Hotel, Ph.: 021-310-2020, Open:06.00 - 22.00
Magnolia Spa: 20, Sperantei St.
AIRPORTS
Ph.: 021-311-2779; Open: Tue - Fri 12:30 - 20:00 Sat: 10:30 - 18:00; Sun - Mon closed “Majestic”Wellness Club: Thoughtfully designed facilities for the benefit and convenience of the Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel guests. The Majestic Wellness Club includes: Swimming Pool, Jacuzzi, Cardio & Fitness Center, Sauna, Massage. Aerobic, Step, Tae-bo, Body-flex; Aqua Gym; Swimming lessons. 38-40, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: (021) 310 27 20; Fax: (021) 310 27 99 Open: daily 07:00 – 21:30.
Henri Coanda International Airport: – for interna-
Novotel Bucarest City Centre Wellness Centre: After a busy day you relax and unwind in the Wellness Centre situated on the mezzanine floor. Indoor swimming pool with artificial waves, fitness centre, gym, massage, hammam and Power Plate are at your disposal. Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 61. Open daily: 06:00 - 22:00. Ramada Plaza Hotel: 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-549-2000; Fax: 021-549-2330; Open: Tue-Sun 10:00 - 22:00 Sports Club 2000: 3-11, Gabriela Szabo St. Tennis, Swimming, Fitness Ph.: 021-434-3572; Kineto & Physiotherapy Ph.: 0723-573-028 Beauty Center Ph.: 021-434-1741 Open: Mon-Sun 08:00 - 22:00 World Class Health Academy: • 90, Calea 13 Septembrie - JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel Ph.: 021-403-0900/01; 0730-848-707 Open: weekdays 6:00 - 23:00, weekends 8:00 - 21:00 • 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-313-1104 • 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.: 0723-691-544
tional and domestic flights. Ph.: Switchboard: (+4021) 204-1000 Customs: ext.: 1514 ; Lost luggage: ext. 1043 Airport Police: ext.: 1523 Aurel Vlaicu Airport (Baneasa): – for domestic and international flights. Ph.: (+4021) 9371, 021-232-0020 ext.: 131.
Transportation to/from Henri Coanda Airport: RATB: City Bus #783 Connecting Otopeni to the City center. Important stops: Pullman Hotel, Piata Victoriei, Piata Romana, Piata Unirii.
TAXI SERVICES Airport taxis are available at the arrivals hall but they may charge you 3 to 10 times as much as a Bucharest regular taxi. Euro Fly Taxi is the official airport taxi, and they are queued outside Henri Coanda Airrivals terminal. If not, call 9440. The average price from Haenri Coanda Airport to Bucharest: 15 Euros.
CITY TAXI SERVICES You can olso call a city taxi by phoning one of these numbers: 9427, 9439, 9451, 9425, 9435, 9444, 9422. Prices vary from one taxi company to another.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Cornu; Ph./fax: 0244-367-053. Open: 8:00 - 22:00
Relatively safe and efficient, Bucharest’s public transport system covers the entire city with buses, tramways, trolleys and metro (subway) services, operating from 5 a.m. to midnight. Tickets and magnetic cards can be bought at RATB kiosks, located on the main thoroughfares in the city, for ground transportation, and in every Metro station for the underground network. Bus, Tram, Trolleys – LEI 1,30 per ticket, LEI 8,00 for one-day pass, LEI 50,00 for a monthly pass. EXPRESS buses use a magnetic card. Metro – LEI 2,20 for two-fare pass, LEI 8,00 for ten-fare pass, LEI 4,00 for one-day pass, LEI 23,00 - for a monthly passcard.
DRIVING IN ROMANIA
SHOW BIZ
The legal speed limit is 50 km/hr in cities, 90 km/hr outside the city and 120 km/hr on highways. Driving above these limits will result in fines with the possibility of losing your license. Most international driving licenses are accepted in Romania, but check with the rental company to be sure. Some rental car companies also provide the service of hiring a car with a driver. A blood alcohol level of any kind is not tolerated, and talking on a cell phone while driving is also prohibited.
Concerts usually start around 6 pm except for Opera and Musical Comedy matinees which start around 11 am. The Music University of Bucharest presents mostly classic recitals which are usually free of charge. The Opera has an extensive repertoire and enjoys international renown. The Athenaeum hosts concerts featuring the Romanian National and Inter-national Philharmonic Orchestras. The Romanian Radio Society organizes concerts in its two halls starting at 7 pm; Generally, individual tickets for opera shows and classic music concerts range between 5 - 15 RON. In Bucharest, cinemas change program every Friday. Movies are shown in their original language with Romanian subtitles. The majority of cinemas show American movies, but one can also find European movies at the French Institute Cinema or the Cinemateca. The row and set number is indicated on your ticket or separate stub. Ticket prices vary from Lei 5 - 35 RON
PRAHOVA COUNTY Pro Estetica Sana Bali Spa: 349, Stadionului St.,
RENT A CAR Cars can be rented in a variety of places. Several offices are available in the Arrivals Hall at the Otopeni International Airport and most upscale hotels. Major cities in Romania are also covered for both pick-up and collection services. Active Rent a Car: Reservations: Ph.: 0727-644-644 www.active-rentacar.ro Avis: Reservations: Ph.: 021-210-4344, 021-210-4345; Fax: 021-210-6912. www.avis.ro; reservations@avis.ro Bavaria Rent a Car: Reservations: Ph.: 021-201-4534; 0730-333-705. www.bavariarent.ro
Head Office: Ph.: 021-312-9857; 0744-586-724; 0744-638-292. Fax: 021-312-9982. www.compact-rentacar.ro Compact Premium: Head Office: Ph.:021- 312-9857; 0744-586-724; 0744-638-292. Fax: 021-312-9982. www.compact-rentacar.ro
Reservations: Ph.: 021-335-7533; Fax:021-335-7532 reservations@hertz.com.ro; www.hertz.com.ro
OPERA & CONCERTS Atheneul Roman: 6 D 1, Franklin St. Ph.: 021-315-6875; 021-315-2567 National Opera: 7 D 70-72, Mihail Kogalniceanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-6980; 021-311-5254 Sala Radio (Romanian Radio Society):
6C
60-64, G-ral Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-303-1153; 021-314-7770. Sala Palatului: 6 D 1, Cretulescu St. Ph.: 021-315-9710 / ext. 761; 021-315-7372
Teatrul National de Opereta “Ion Dacian”:
7D
2, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-313-6348.
George Enescu Philharmonic: 6 D 1-3, Franklin St. Ph: 021-315-0024; Box Office: 021-315-6875
MUSEUMS Bucharest is a city of history and arts. It probably has more museums per capita than any other capital in the world. Below you’ll find a list of selected museums. Usually there is a nominal entrance fee. Multi-lingual guides are typically available on request at no charge. Most museums are closed on Mondays.
National Museum of Art of Romania:
6D
49-53, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-314 81 19; 021-313 30 30. Visiting hours: Wednesday-Sunday page 16
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Bucuresti what, where, when
17
niques and utensils (water and windmills, oil presses, etc) from all of the country’s provinces. Folkloric art collections and souvenirs.
Art Collections Museum:
6D
111, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021- 211.17.49, 021- 212.96.41. Visiting hours: Saturday- Wednesday 11.00 –19.00 (May-September); 10.00 – 18.00 (October-April); Closed: Thursday, Friday, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 25th December. Founded in 1978, the museum houses previously private collections that have been donated to the state in the 11.00 –19.00 (May-September); 10.00 – 18.00 (October-April); Closed: Monday, Tuesday, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 25th December. The National Museum of Art of Romania is housed in the former Royal Palace which is located on Victoriei Avenue, in an area of great architectural and historical value. The European Art Gallery includes painting, sculpture and decorative art. The most important schools of European art are well represented by works of Domenico Veneziano, Lucas Cranach the Elder, El Greco, Pieter Breughel the Younger, Rembrandt, Monet, Sisley, Rodin and other great names. The Gallery offers an overview of the most important artistic movements that marked art history from the early Renaissance till the first decades of the 20th century. The Medieval Romanian Art Gallery displays works from the 14th to the 19th century: frescoes, icons, embroideries, manuscripts, silver and gold objects and sculptures. The Romanian Modern Art Gallery illustrates the development of Romanian fine arts from the first decades of the 19th century till the second half of the 20th century. It includes works of Aman, Grigorescu, Andreescu, Luchian, Tonitza, Pallady, Petrascu, Brâncusi, Paciurea. The Village Museum: 5 C 28-30, Soseaua Kiseleff. Ph.: 021-224-2759. Open daily: Nov.-Apr.: 09:00 – 17:00 May-Oct.: 09:00 - 19:00. One of the most valuable ethnographic museums in the world. A creation of sociologist Dimitrie Gusti in 1936, the outdoor museum covers 30 hectares with over 70 exhibits of houses, 99 auxiliary buildings, churches and traditional tech-
curesti Mall Ph.: 021-327-7020/22 The Light Cinema: 151-171, Progresului Ave., Liberty Center Ph.: 021-369-9740, 021-369-9797 Movieplex Cinema: 26, Timisoara Blvd., Plaza Romania; Ph.: 021-407-8300 NCRR: 3, Kiseleff Ave., the National Museum of Romanian Peasant Ph.: 021-317-9660 Patria: 12-14, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9266 Scala: 2-4, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6708 Studio: 29, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-5526 Learning French, English, Italian or German is what you wanted for so long but you never had the time to do it? The cultural institutes in Bucharest have language classes to suite your learning appetite. Many of them also have impotrant libraries and mediateques highlighting the culture they represent. Subscriptions to the cultural centres’libraries can vary from 10 to 30 Euro.
British Council 6 D
course of time. They mirror accurately the development of Romanian art in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries giving a fair view of the history of taste and of the economic power of native Romanian collectors. European as well as Oriental art works are also present
The Museum of Bucharest City:
7D
2, I.C. Bratianu Blvd. Ph: 021-31025.62, 021-3156858. Open daily 10.00 18.00, Closed: Monday and Tuesday. In the heart of the Capital, very close to the University Square, the outstanding building of Sutu Palace, a monument dating back to 1838, hosts this Museum of Bucharest City's History. You will find here collections of archaeology, numismatics, photography, maps, documents, paintings, drawings, funeral stones, coats of arms, furniture, uniforms, flags, costumes and many others. 7A
1, Geniului Blvd. Ph. 021-430-4485. Open daily 9:30–17:30 ; closed Monday.Reconstructing the atmosphere of the Mediavale Cotroceni Church (17th Century) and the old Royal Residence of King Ferdinand, Cotroceni Museum is a valuable architectural and historic site. Works of art for sale.
“George Enescu” Museum:
6D
141, Calea Victoriei. Ph. 021-212-9649. Open daily 10:00–17:00; closed Monday. Houses collections illustrating the history of music composition and documents from the life of eminent Romanian musician and composer George Enescu.
The Observatory:
5D
21, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Ph.: 021-212-9644. It includes both a science fiction and an astronomic club. This small museum of Romanian history of astronomy is worth visiting.
CINEMAS Cinema City: 4, Vasile Milea Blvd., AFI Palace Cotroceni Ph.: 021-407-0000 Cinema City Sun Plaza: 391, Calea Vacaresti, Sun Plaza Ph.: 021-386-0600 CinemaPro: 3, Ion Ghica St. Ph.: 031-824-1360 Cinemateca: • Eforie Hall: 2, Eforie St. Ph.: 021313-0483; • Union Hall: 21, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-9289 Corso: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-1334 Cityplex: City Mall, 3rd floor; 2, Oltenitei Ave. Ph.: 021-319-8226 Europa: 127, Calea Mosilor Ph.: 021-314-2714 Festival: 34, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-6384 French Institute “Elvira Popescu”: 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9930/0224 Bucuresti what, where, when
Ph.: 021-316-3286
Gloria: 6, Bucovina St. Ph.: 021-324-4675 Hollywood Multiplex: 55-59, Calea Vitan, Bu-
CULTURAL INSTITUTES
National Cotroceni Museum:
18
Glendale Studio: 9, Cotroceni Ave.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
14, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph. 021-307-9600. Fax: 021-307-9601/01 Open 09-19, Sat. 09-13, Sun closed. Goethe Institut (German Institute) 6 C 8-10, Tudor Arghezi St. Ph. 021-311-97-62; 021-311-97-82. Fax: 021-312-05-85; Open Mon - Thu 10-18, Fri 10-15. Free lending library program. German language courses available. L'Institut Français (French Institute) 6 E 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph. 021-316-38-36; 021-316-02-24. Fax: 021-316-02-25; Open 10-20.30, Fri 10-14. Sat, Sun Closed. Theatre & film hall Elvire Popesco. Exhibition hall. Huge books, magazines, CDs and videotapes libraries. Internet café. French bistro. Language courses available. Instituto Cervantes (Spanish Institute) 12, Serghiescu St. Ph. 021-210-27-37; 021-210-47-27; 0921-210-6777; Fax: 021-210-77-67; Open Mon-Fri 09-19. Sat & Sun closed. Library & Spanish language courses available
BUCHAREST JEWISH COMMUNITY (CEB) The Great Synagogue: 11, Vasile Adamache St., sector 3; It was built during 1845 -1846 by the Ashkenazi Polish-Jewish community. Since 1992, the Great Synagogue hosts the exhibition The Memorial of Jewish Martyrs. Visiting hours: Mon – Thu 8:30 – 15:00, Fri & Sun 8:30 – 13:00. Prayer Hours: Morning Prayer Sun - Fri 8:00, Evening Prayer Sun - Fri 19:00, Sat Morning Prayer 9:30. The Jewish Museum: 3, Mamulari St., sector 3; Located in the former Templul Unirea Sfânta (United Holy Temple) synagogue which survived both World War II and Nicolae Ceausescu unscathed. Displays a collection of books written, published, illustrated, or translated by Romanian Jews, an archive of the history of Romanian Jewry, a collection of paintings of and by Romanian Jews that, while relatively small, consists of works of a caliber worthy of a major art museum. Visiting hours: Mon - Thu 9:00 – 14:00, Fri 9:00 – 12:00, Sun 9:00 – 13:00. Choral Temple: 9-11, Sfanta Vineri St., sector 3; Currently closed to visitors and services due to heavy renovation works. Bucharest Jewish Community: 9-11, Sfanta Vineri St., Sector 3; For information please contact the office of the president, Erwin Simsensohn. Ph.: 021.313.1782, e-mail erwin@jewish.ro
HOTELS See our list featuring a growing number of hotels in Bucharest, from top-of-the-line, five-star international hotels to local Bed & Breakfasts. All telephone numbers are in area code 021 (+4021 if calling from abroad). See map (page 22) for the letter/number coordinates.
ALEXANDER ##### 1/VI, Pipera Blvd. ph: +40-21-569-5120; fax:+40-21-569-5119
AMBASADOR ### 6 D : 8-10, Magheru Blvd. ph: +40-21-315-9080; fax:+40-21-312-3595
February 2011
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Feel the Rhythm! There are an increasing amount of foreign people arriving in Bucharest to simply have fun and enjoy themselves. Many European travellers can testify that some of the greatest and cheapest nights can be had here. Lipscani, the historic centre of the town has witnessed a recent revival with many of the older clubs being refurbished or completely rebuilt. Many of these new venues would not seem out of place in Paris or London. Like the most International cities, Bucharest has a good selection of bars, clubs, cafes, theatres, casinos and many other places of entertainment. Other Bucharest districts are also quite animated, with lots of people on the street late into the night. If you want to have a perfect night, you can start with a romantic dinner in one of the restaurants around the old centre. “Caru` cu bere”, for instance, is one of the most representative restaurants of our capital, it is a true living legend and also one of the oldest beer houses in Bucharest. It was opened for the first time in 1879 and it is one of the few places in Bucharest where it seems that nothing has changed. After that, you can continue with a show or play at Rapsodia Theatre. Then… enjoy your night in a club or in a bar with your friends. There is a wide variety of bars and pubs scattered all over the city and it is not always easy to choose between Irish, English, Latino or the more exotic among the range of watering holes available. There are also traditional Romanian bars and restaurants. Cyber cafes are becoming ever more popular in Bucharest and these are generally open quite late. There are plenty of nightclubs catering for all tastes and smart dress page IV
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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Copenhagen, Geneva or Bucharest An Expat's Point of View Although there are some important aspects that have not changed in the Romanian Capital in the last years (sidewalks are still not clean, there are no bicycle tracks, there isn't enough lighting on the streets, nor enough parking places), Bucharest occupies the 14th place among the top of European cities which are preferred by the citizens of other countries who live there, as Roxana Lupu tells in her article in “Evenimentul Zilei”, titled “The Capital, More and More Loved by Expats”. The city is more and more appreciated thanks to the quality of security, housing and health and this is the reason why expats want to work and even settle here, the same thing being true for another East-European city, Bratislava, the Capital of Slovakia, as shown in a study by ECA International, a Human Resource company. “There are better restaurants, more concerts by international stars, more shopping. Life has improved considerably”, says Tom Murray, who came to Romania 15 years ago and has become a successful businessmanin the textile industry. He also believes that, even if prices have gone up a lot recently, life is still cheaper here than it is in Western Europe or in the United States, and Bucharest has the charm of a European Capital. Nevertheless, in Tom's opinion the cost of basic goods is a major problem. The things used by the middle class now carry the price of luxury goods, and the cost of utilities has increased dramatically.
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Bucuresti what, where, when
For the Romanians, as well as for the expats, the quality of life depends on the wages they earn. If the wage is one of thousands of Euros per month, they can say they live well, but if it is a middle income one, even an expat faces the tough realities of daily life, thinks Tom: “If you have money, you can do anything you want in Bucharest: you hire people to manage your daily business, you eat in the best restaurants, you travel overseas or to other Romanian cities on weekends.” Nevertheless, he thinks that Bucharest cannot be considered the most sophisticated European Capital yet. Another businessman, Christopher Troxler, who has lived in Romania for five years, fell in love with Bucharest as soon as he got here. “It was love at first sight”, he says. “I simply liked the atmosphere.” Copenhagen, the Capital of Denmark, holds the first place among the preferences of expats, shows the study mentioned above. In the top ten places are cities in Switzerland and Germany, such as Geneva, Basel and Bern, and respectively Dusseldorf, Bonn and Munich. The expats coming from Asia have their own top list: Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra, in Australia, as well as two regions, from Japan, Kobe and Yokohama. Hong Kong and Shanghai, in China, occupy places 15 and 78, respectively. In the Middle East, expats prefer Manama, the Capital of Bahrein, and Dubai and Muscat. Bagdad, the Iraqui Capital, holds the last place in the world, num-
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MASSAGE: Relaxation & Healing
Massage involves systematic stroking, rubbing and kneading of the soft tissues of the body in an effort to induce a state of total relaxation. Despite some misconceptions, massage has become more accepted as a means to relieve minor physical problems. Although massage has sometimes been discredited, by advocates of modern medicine, it has recently been growing in acceptance. Massage has been shown to help maintain stability and enhance performance in nearly all of the body's major systems. The muscular, skeletal, circulatory, nervous and respiratory systems can be positively affected by massage. The theory behind massage is the relief of muscle tension, and that relaxation of the body will allow for a faster healing process. Massage can increase and improve circulation to damaged tissue areas. People who play sports know that it is important to stretch and relax muscles for peak performance, and the same idea underlies the massage process. Perhaps the greatest benefit of massage, as any amateur can confirm, is the relaxing effect it can have on tense muscles. The smooth stroking motions and the kneading of muscles relieves tension, loosens joints and improves circulation, all of which are beneficial for good health. Of course it is recommended that people not replace necessary medical treatment with a massage. Sometimes medical conditions that could easily be cured by a simple medical treatment are identified as a simple tight muscle or something similar. Although massage does have positive medical benefits, in most cases it is not a replacement for modern medicine. The history of massage dates back almost as far as recorded history. For thousands of years some form of massage or the “laying on of hands� has been used to helpl the sick. For the ancient Greeks and Romans, massage was one of the principal methods of healing and relieving pain. Generally, if you are in good health and just feeling a little tense, a massage may be a good way to go.. www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
III
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is not necessary, jeans are acceptable. Clubs and bars serve alcohol until 5 or 6 in the morning and the minimum age for drinking is 18. Despite much recent renovation a real sense of history remains, many of the older inns or taverns have become pubs and clubs, but walking around this area can still transport you into the past, to the true beginnings of the city and its nickname, ‘Little Paris’. Now you will find here coffee shops, restaurants and bars where you can drink a hot tea or a good coffee. You can choose a bar where you will listen to traditional Romanian singers like Maria Tanase. The atmosphere is quite calm here in the night, perfect for relaxing with friends. As far as clubs are concerned, from electro to live rock, you will find anything you wish in Bucharest! They are the best and their
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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secret is that they never let you stop dancing, all night you feel so good that you believe you are the greatest dancer in the world. When you visit Bucharest to find some fun, you will feel an explosion of happiness, everyone is friendly because everyone is dancing with a beer in their hand. The live music increases your adrenaline, the guitars, the amplifiers, the singer, all these go together to entice you to the dance floor. Techno, House, Garage and Latino are the popular sounds of Bucharest and, to a lesser extent, Hip Hop and Drum and Bass. For a special atmosphere you can choose a club located in an old building, like the ancient residence of Princess Margareta which is completely rearranged with a futurist design, the perfect location for a high level of comfort and relaxation (Pat Club - “pat” means “bed” in Romanian).
ANGELO AIRPORTHOTEL BUCHAREST : 283, Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. ph: +40-21-203-6500; fax: +40-21-203-6530
ARMONIA
7E
: 112, Calea Mosilor,
ph: +40-21-312-0477; fax: +40-21-312-0406.
ATHENÉE PALACE HILTON BUCHAREST 6 D : 1-3, Episcopiei St. ph: +40-21-303-3777; fax: +40-21-315-2121.
BANAT
7 E 5, Piata Rosetti ph: +40-21-312-5784; fax: +40-21-312-6547.
BUCHAREST UNIRII SQUARE HOTEL
8F :
3A, Nerva Traian St. ph: +40-21-200-6270; fax: +40-21-200-6273
CAPITOL 7 D : 29, Calea Victoriei ph: +40-21-313-9440; fax: +40-21-312-4169 CAROL PARC HOTEL
9 D : 23-25, Aleea
Suter , ph: +40-21-336-3377; fax: +40-21-336-3736
CARO
2 E : 164A, Barbu Vacarescu St. ph: +40-21-208-6100; fax: +40-21-208-6101;
CASA CAPSA
7D
: 36, Calea Victoriei
ph: +40-21-313-4038
CASA VICTOR 4 C : 44, Emanoil Porumbaru St. ph: +40-21-222-5723, +40-21-222-9626 fax: +40-21-222-9436 CENTRE VILLE APARTHOTEL
6D:
George Enescu St. and Luterana St. crossing ph: +40-21-305-3666; fax: +40-21-312-0927
CENTRAL
7 D : 13, Brezoianu St, ph/fax: +40-21-315-5636/37.
CLASS
1B
: 30A, Gârlei St. ph: +40-21-233-2814; fax: +40-21-233-2886
CONFORT OTOPENI : 255A, Calea Bucuresti ph: +40-21-350-4110 - 16; fax: +40-21-350-4117 - 18.
CONFORT TRAIAN
7F
: 55, Traian St. ph.: +40-21-308-3153/4; fax: +40-21-308-3155.
CROWNE PLAZA
2 A 1, Poligrafiei St. ph.: +40-21-224-0034; fax: +40-21-318-1302
DALIN
9 D 70-72, Marasesti Blvd. ph.: +40-21-335-6306; fax: +40-21-336-6284
DALIN CENTER
7F
: 33A, Soseaua Stefan cel
Mare. ph.: +40-21-211-0070
DUKE 6 D : 33, Dacia Blvd, ph: +40-21-317-4186/87/88; fax: +40-21-317-4189. EPOQUE
6C
17C, Aurora Alley: ph: +40-21-312-3232;
EURO HOTELS INTERNATIONAL
6B
4, Ghe. Polizu St. ph: +40-21-316-88-39; fax: +40-21-316-8360
EURO HOTELS INT’L TRIUMF 4 B : 32-34, Maresal Averescu Blvd. ph: +40-21-224-5496; fax: +40-21-224-5554 ERBAS
1+2D
: 27, Av. Alex Serbanescu St., ph: +40-21-232-6856, +40-21-232-6857. fax: +40-21-232-6527.
GOLDEN TULIP BUCHAREST
6C
166, Calea Victoriei. ph: +40-21-212-5558; fax: +40-21-212-5121 page 21
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19
Must See in Bucharest Here is a selection of the most representative landmarks of Bucharest which are a must to see during your stay in the city. You will see these and much more on one of our regularly scheduled or customized tours while benefitting from the expertise and knowledge of our experienced licensed guides. For more information please see the ads inside the magazine. The Cotroceni Palace: is a part of the Cotroceni National Museum. The Cotroceni Palace, church and monastery reflect a three-century old history that interweaves political, military, diplomatic, religious and cultural aspects, with the general evolution of Romanian society. The palace was built in the 17th century by the Prince Serban Cantacuzino. The Cotroceni National Museum exhibits a rich range of
objects of art, illustrative of the Romanian decorative art. The Cantacuzino space is most suitable for organizing presentations of old art objects that can only outline the exceptional artistic accomplishments of a distant epoch. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (By appointment only)
The Parliament Palace: is the second largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon) in terms of all-out surface: 330,000 m2. It was built between 1984 and 1989 by a team of architects led by Anca Petrescu. and was destined for the members of the Communist Party; Besides offices, Ceausescu planned to make personal living places, so the Palace's surface would have been bigger. The building currently houses Romania's Parliament. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (By appointment only) page 22
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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GOLDEN TULIP TIMES 7 G : 19, Decebal Blvd. ph: +40-21-316 6516; fax: +40-21-316-6517 GRAFFITI
5 D : 25 Albac St.,
ph./fax: +40-21-231-6006.
GRAND HOTEL CONTINENTAL
7D
:
56, Calea Victoriei ph.: +40-372-010-300; fax: +40-372-010 301.
HOWARD JOHNSON GRAND PLAZA HOTEL 6 D 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor, ph: +40-21-201-5000; fax: +40-21-201-1888.
HELLO HOTELS
6 B : 143, Calea Grivitei, ph: +40-372-121-800; fax: +40-372-121-801 reservation: +40-372-716-464
HERASTRAU
2 C : 7-9, Soseaua Nordului,
ph: +40-21-232-9666; fax: +40-21-203-9923.
IBIS Gara de Nord
7E : 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St. ph: +40-21-314-0880; fax: +40-21-314-0888
MINERVA
5 C : 2-4, Gh. Manu St.,
ph: +40-21-311-1555; fax: +40-21-312-3963
MONTE NELLY
6 E : 30, Corbeni St., ph: +40-21-211-0979; fax: +40-21-211-0980
NOVOTEL BUCAREST CITY CENTRE
7D
37B, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-308-8500; fax: +40-21-308-8501
NH BUCHAREST
8 E : 21, Mircea Voda Blvd.,
ph: +40-21-300-0545; fax: +40-21-317-9154
OPERA 7 D 37, Brezoianu St., 6 B : 143, Calea Grivitei,
ph: +40-21-300-9100; fax: +40-21-300-9098. reservation: +40-21-401-1011
IBIS Palatul Parlamentului
8 C : 82-84, Izvor
St., ph: +40-21-401-1000; fax: +40-21-402-2898. One IBIS reservation: +40-21-401-1011
INTERCONTINENTAL
7D:
4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., ph: +40-21-310-2020; fax: +40-21-312-0486.
JW MARRIOTT BUCHAREST GRAND HOTEL 8 B : 90, Calea 13 Septembrie, ph: +40-21-403-1012; fax: +40-21-403-1001.
LEV OR
+40-21-312-1967; fax: +40-21-310-2799
MARSHAL
6 C : 25, Occidentului St.,
ph: +40-21-210-1274; fax: +40-21-319-0910.
ph: +40-21-312-4857; fax: +40-21-312-4858.
PARLIAMENT
8 C : 106, Izvor St., ph: +40-21-411-9990; fax: +40-21-411-9991
PULLMAN
SIQUA 7C : 59A, Calea Plevnei, ph: +40-21-319-5160; 319-5161; fax: +40-21-319-5162
2 B : 10, Piata Montreal,
ph: +40-21-318-3000; fax +40-21-316-2550
RADISSON BLU
STARLIGHT SUITE HOTELS
5D:
89-97, Grigore Alexandrescu St., ph/fax: +40-21-211-3413 / 14
6 D
63-81, Calea Victoriei,
TEMPO 7E : 19, Armand Calinescu St., ph: +40-21-310-1216; fax: +40-21-310-1241
ph: +40-21-311-9000; fax: +40-21-313-9000
RAMADA BUCHAREST PARC
RAMADA PLAZA BUCHAREST 2 B : 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd., ph: +40-21-549-3000; fax: +40-21-549-3001 RAZVAN 7 F : 159, Calea Calarasilor, ph: +40-21-320-0173 / 83; fax: +40-21-322-0811 REMBRANDT 7 D : 11 Smardan St., ph/fax: +40-21-313-9315, +40-21-313-9316. RESIDENCE 4 B : 19, Clucerului St., ph: +40-21-223-1978; fax: +40-21-222-9046 RIN OTOPENI : 255A, Calea Bucuresti, ph: +40-21-350-4110/16; fax: +40-21-350-4117/18 RIN GRAND : 7D, Soseaua Vitan-Barzesti ph: +40-31-106-1111; 0731-111-000 SAMAA 3 A : 319C, Ion Mihalache Blvd., ph: +40-21-224-0282/83; fax: +40-21-224-0284
2A:
TRIANON 9, Grigore Cobalcescu St., ph: +40-21-311-4927; fax: +40-21-316-2281
3-5 Poligrafiei Blvd. ph: +40-21-549-2000; fax: +40-21-549-2330
RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES BUCHAREST NORTH 2 C : 44A, Daniel Danielopolu St., ph: +40-21-233-5000; fax: +40-21-233-5001;
VENEZIA
7 C : 2, Pompiliu Eliade St.,
ph: +40-21-310-6878; fax: +40-21-310-6873
RAMADA MAJESTIC BUCHAREST 7 D :
Z EXECUTIVE BOUTIQUE HOTEL
38-40, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-310-2715,
4, Ion Nistor St., ph: +40-31-140-0200
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
6D:
21
The Village Museum: nestled on the shore of the Herastrau Lake, the museum displays 85 peasant homes, barns, churches and mills relocated there from all over Romania. Tall-roofed Transylvanian houses with beautifully crafted shingles sit alongside rustic wooden churches to form a unique neighborhood. The overall impression is that Romanian peasants take great pride in their work and homes. Everyday accessories: tools, butter-churns, hay forks, beer kegs and clothes are displayed inside the house. This museum can take a whole day to explore and, in fine weather, families settle down for picnics in the scenic grounds. Visiting hours: Nov.-Apr.: 09:00 - 17:00., May-Oct.: 09:00 - 19:00, every day, including Monday
The National Museum of Art: is hosted by the former Royal Palace and is the most representative art gallery in Romania. The Royal Palace was the official residence of the Romanian kings. Its current facade was given the finishing touches in 1937 when Carol II was King of Romania. The National Art Museum Palace is located in downtown Bucharest (in the so-called Revolution Square). The Palace displays an extensive collection of European and Romanian fine art. The European Art Gallery offers an overview of teh most important artistic movements that marked art history from the early Rennaissance till the first decades of teh 20th century. The Romanian Modern Art Gallery illustrates the development of Romanian fine arts from the first decades of the 19th century till the second half of the 20th century. Visiting hours: Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (May - September) 10 a.m - 6 p.m. (October - April) Closed: Monday, Tuesday
www.bucharesttours.ro
The Romanian Athenaeum: is a concert hall in the center of Bucharest and a landmark of the Romanian capital city. Opened in 1888, the ornate, domed, circular building is the city's main concert hall and home of the "George Enescu" Philarmonic and of the George Enescu annual international music festival. It has the aspect of a Greek temple with Ionic columns at the entrance. The wonderful interior with round frescoes depicts important events in Romania's history. Extensive reconstruction and restoration work has been conducted in 1992 by a Romanian construction company and restoration painter Silviu Petrescu, saving the building from collapse. Visiting hours: every day, unless concerts or rehearsals are held.
22
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
The Old Royal Court: during the early Middle Ages, Bucharest became a commercial center; important enough to enable the XIV century princes to build the Princely Court – nowadays known as "The Old Court" - which formed the development core of the medieval town. The first written mention of the name of "Bucharest" dates back to September 20, 1459: it appears on a document issued from the chancellery of the famous Prince Vlad Tepes (the Impaler). By the year 1599, a new Princely Court was built. Matei Basarab (1632-1654) renovated the Old Court. By 1640, because the prince's relations with the Turks worsened, Matei Basarab moved his Capital back to the town of Targoviste. Bucharest still remained a princely residence. In May 1654, Prince Constantin Serban Basarab (1654-1658), Matei Basarab's successor, left for Targoviste after a rebellion of his mercenary troops, and he ordered the Old Court to be set of fire. The Old Royal Court is an outdoor site that can be visited any time.
• INT’L. ORGANIZATIONS • LOCAL INSTITUTIONS • BUSINESS CONNECTIONS • AIRLINES • TRAINS • EMBASSIES • BANKS
DELEGATION OF THE EUROPEAN UNION: 31,
Sports: 28-30, Gen Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-4056200/6300; www.edu.ro
Vasile Lascar St. Ph.: 021-203-5400; Fax: 021-3168808, www.infoeuropa.ro
Ministry of Regional Development and Tourism: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-211-1409/43;
EUROPEAN BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION EBRD: Metropolis Center, 56-60, Iancu de Hune-
Ministry of Health: 1-3, Cristian Popisteanu Entr.
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
doara Blvd. Ph.: 021-202-7100; Fax: 021-202-7110; www.ebrd.com INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND: 7, Halelor St., 2nd floor Ph.: 021-311-5833; 031-805-7040; Fax: 021-318-1410. www.fmi.ro UNICEF: 48A, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-7872; Fax: 021-231-5255. www.unicef.ro UNITED NATIONS INFORMATION CENTRE: UN House, 48A Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-7877; Fax: 021-201-7880; www.un.ro WORLD BANK: 31, Vasile Lascar St. Ph.: 021-2010311; Fax: 021-201-0336
NATIONAL & LOCAL INSTITUTIONS Presidency of Romania: Cotroceni Palace, 1-3, Geniului St. Ph.: 021-410-0581; Fax: 021-410-3858; www.presidency.ro Chamber of Deputies: Parliament’s Palace, 2-4, Izvor St. Ph.: 021-316-0300, 021-414-1111; www.cdep.ro Senate of Romania: Parliament’s Palace, 1-3, 13 Septembrie Ave. Ph.: 021- 316-0300, 021-414-1111; Fax: 021- 315-8942; www.senat.ro Government of Romania: 1, Victoriei Sq. Ph.: 021314-3400; 021-313-1564; www.gov.ro
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development: 2-4, Carol I Blvd. Ph.: 021-307-2300; www.madr.ro
Ministry of Communication and Information Society: 14, Libertatii Blvd. Ph.: 021-311-4104, Fax: 021-311-4121; www.mcsi.ro
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business: 152, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-202-5106; Fax: 021-2025108; www.minind.ro Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 31, Alexandru Alley. Ph.: 021-319-2108/25; Fax: 021-319-6862; www.mae.ro Ministry of Public Finance: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-319-9759; 021-226-1110; Fax: 021-312-2509; www.mfinante.gov.ro Ministry of Justice: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-2041999; www.just.ro
www.mdrt.ro Ph.: 021-307-2500/2600: Fax: 021-307-2671; www.ms.gov.ro Ministry of Environment and Forests: 12, Libertatii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-0215; Fax: 021-316-3874; www.mmediu.ro Ministry of Culture and National Heritage: 30, Kiseleff Ave. Ph./Fax: 021-224-3947. www.cultura.ro The Prefect’s Office: 47, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-312-6525/021-9866; www. prefecturabucuresti.ro City Hall: 24, Regina Elisabeta Blvd., temporary moved to 291-293, Splaiul Independentei Ph.: 021305-5500/50/55; www.pmb.ro • Sector 1: 7-9, Banu Manta Blvd. temporary moved to 9-13, Bucuresti-Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-3191013/14/15/16/17; Fax: 021-319-1006; www.primariasector1.ro • Sector 2: 11-13, Chiristigilor St. Ph.: 021-209-6000. Fax: 021-209-6282; www.ps2.ro • Sector 3: 2-4, Parfumului St. Ph.: 021-3180323/24/25/26/27/28/29; www.sector3primarie.ro • Sector 4: 6-16, George Cosbuc Blvd. Ph.: 021-3359230; www.ps4.ro • Sector 5: 29-31, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-2838/4318; www.sector5.ro • Sector 6: 147-149, Calea Plevnei Ph.: 021-318-0147, 021-529-8498; Fax: 021-318-0152; www.primarie6.ro
MOVING COMPANIES AGS Bucharest: 9, Pipera St., entr. 2, 2E Building, 3rd floor, apt. 11. Ph.: 021-201-17-91; Fax: 021-232-52-89; www.ags-worldwide-movers.com Allied Pickfords: 29,Topraisar St. Ph.: 021-221-95-46; Fax: 021-221-94-42. www.alliedintl.com
Ministry of Labor, Family and Social Protection: 2-4, Dem I. Dobrescu St. Ph.: 021-313-6267, 021-315-8556; www.mmuncii.ro
Ministry of National Defense: 3-5, Izvor St. Ph.: 021-319-5698, 021-402-3400; Fax: 021-319-5698; www.mapn.ro Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure: 38, Dinicu Golescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-319-6124; Fax: 021313-8869; www.mt.ro Ministry of Administrations and Interior Affairs: 1A, Revolutiei Sq. Ph.: 021-303-70-80; www.mai.gov.ro
Ministry of Education, Research, Youth and www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
23
Corstjens Bucharest: 7-9, Intrarea Gherghitei
COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES
Ph.: 021-240-37-02; Fax: 021-240-37-03. www.corstjens.com
COSMOTE: America House, 4-8., N. Titulescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-404-1234, 0766-121-234; Fax: 021-413-7530; www.cosmote.ro
De Groot IRS: 20, Parangului St. Ph.: 021-224-25-63; Fax: 021-668-64-25. www. degroot.ro Orbit Worldwide Movers: T98, T370 Bucuresti Urziceni, Afumati, Ilfov; Ph.: 021-350-15-00; Fax: 021-350-15-01. www.beinoglou.gr
FOREIGN TRADE CHAMBERS TTHE AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:
ORANGE ROMANIA S.A.: Europe House, 51-53,
Union Int’l Center, 11, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021312-4834; Fax: 021-312-4851; www.amcham.ro
Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Ph.: 021-203-3030, 021-2033333; Fax: 2021-03-3599; www.orange.ro RCS & RDS: 73-75, Dr. N. Staicovici St. Ph.: 031-4004414, 031-400-4600; Fax: 031-400-6060 ROMTELECOM: 3-5, Presei Libere Sq. Ph.: 021-4088068; www.romtelecom.ro UPC ROMANIA: 62D, Nordului Ave. Ph.: 021-9399; 031-100-0400; www.upc.ro VODAFONE ROMANIA: 4A, Vasile Milea Blvd. Ph.: 021-302-2222; Fax: 021-302-1413; www.vodafone.ro
DEUTSCH - RUMÄNISCHE INDUSTRIE UND HANDELSKAMMER BUKAREST: 35, Clucerului St., 2nd floor Ph.: 021-223-1531; Fax: 021-223-1538; www.ahkrumaenien.ro FOREIGN INVESTORS COUNCIL: ING Building, 11-13, Kiseleff Ave. Ph.: 021-222-1931; Fax:021-2221932; www.fic.ro FRENCH T.I.C.C. IN ROMANIA: 21, Andrei Muresanu St. Ph.: 021-317-1284, 021-230-0377; www.ccifer.ro JAPAN EXTERNAL TRADE ORGANIZATION: IBC Modern, 34-36, Carol Blvd. 5th floor Ph.: 021-3106801/02; www.jetro.go.jp ROMANIA TURKEY T.I.C.C.: 58, Austrului St., Ph./Fax: 021-326-9722 ROMANIA CHINA T.I.C.C.: 28, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-5114; Fax: 021-312-1371.
SCHOOLS The following English-speaking schools are located in Bucharest:
International British School: 21-23, Agricultori St. Ph. 021-253-1698,
International School for Primary Education: 72, Petre Aurelian St. Green Lake Residences Ph. 021-380-3535,
Source: Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry Union
NATIONAL AGENCIES BUCHAREST OFFICE OF TRADE REGISTERY: 1, Sectorului Entr. Ph.: 021-316-0820; www.onrc.ro COMPETITION COUNCIL: 1, Presei Libere Sq. Ph.: 021-405-4429; Fax: 021-405-4402; www.consiliuconcurentei.ro NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TRAVEL AGENCIES IN ROMANIA - ANAT: 59, Horia Macelariu St. 4th floor, Apt. 401 Ph.: 021-321-1908, 021-323-0855, 031-106-9810/11; Fax: 021-323-6843; www.anat.ro NATIONAL TRADE REGISTERY OFFICE: 74A, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-0804; Fax: 021-316-0803; www.onrc.ro ROMANIAN FOREIGN TRADE CENTER: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-318-5050; Fax: 021-311-1491; www.traderom.ro
ROMANIAN AGENCY FOR FOREIGN INVESTMENTS: 22, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-233-9103 T.I.C.C. OF ROMANIA: 2, Octavian Goga Blvd., Ph.: 021-319-0114/18; www.ccir.ro
LAWYERS
Ph.: 021-320-1538
American International School: 196, Soseaua Pipera-Tunari. Ph.: 021-204-4300
International Computer High School of Bucharest: 428, Mihai Bravu Ave, Ph. 021-327-5443.
MAIL SERVICES
Fax: 031-229-2601; www.mazars.ro
CARGUS INTERNATIONAL: 1, Bucuresti Ave.,
NESTOR NESTOR DICULESCU KINGSTON PETERSEN: Bucharest Business Park, Entr. A, 4th floor,
Otopeni Ph.: 021-9330, 021-933-0000; Fax: 021-3510200; www.cargus.ro DHL INTERNATIONAL ROMANIA: 169 A, Floreasca Ave. Ph.: 021-222-1777; www.dhl.ro FEDERAL EXPRESS ROMANIA: 13, Fermei St., Otopeni Ph.: 021-201-4822; Fax: 021-201-4827; www.fedex.com PEGASUS / AIRBORNE EXPRESS: 13, Iancului Ave. Ph.: 021-250-9360; Fax: 021-256-9504; www.pegasus.ro POSTA RAPIDA / EXPRESS MAIL: 140, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-200-7500; www.posta-romana.ro TNT ROMANIA: BBP Building, Corp C1+C2, ground floor, 1A, Bucuresti – Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-303-4567; Fax: 021-303-4543; www.tnt.com UPS - UNITED PARCEL SERVICE: 81-83, 13 Septembrie Ave., Bl. 77 AB Ph.: 021-410-0604; Fax: 021-410-9910; www.ups.com
RUBIN MEYER DORU & TRANDAFIR attorneys at Law affiliated with Herzfeld & Rubin, P.C.: 7, Putu cu Plopi St. Ph.: 021-311-1460; Fax: 021-3111465. www.hr.ro
SALANS-MOORE, VARTIRES & ASSOCIATES: 28C, G-ral C. Budisteanu St. Ph.: 021-312-4950; Fax: 021-312-4951; www.salans.com
VASILE DELEANU attorneys at Law Member of Warwick Legal Network: 2, Maresal Josef Pilsudski Entrance Ph.: 021-201-6684; Fax: 021-201-6685; www.deleanu.ro Bucuresti what, where, when
Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.0724-000-900; 021-267-8912,
Lauder Reut Kindergartden: 15, Barsch Iuliu St.
MAZARS, DUNCEA, STEFANESCU & ASSOCIATES: 31B, Econom Cezarescu St. Ph.: 031-229-2600;
1A, Bucuresti-Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-201-1200; Fax: 021-201-1210; www.nndkp.com PACHIU & ASSOCIATES attorneys at Law: 4-10, Muntii Tatra St. 5th floor Ph.: 021-312-1008; Fax: 021312-1009; www.pachiu.com
24
Mark Twain International School: 25B, Erou
www.bucurestiwww.ro
AIRLINES AEGEAN: Henri Coanda Int’l Airport. Ph: 021-204-19-68; 021-201-45-50 AEROFLOT: 5C 5, Gheorghe Manu St. Ph: 021-315-03-14; Fax: 021-312-51-52 AIR FRANCE: 6 C 85, Calea Buzesti, 2nd floor. Ph: 021-206-92-00; Fax: 021-206-92-11. AIR MALTA (GSA): 1 B Baneasa Int’l Airport, 14-22, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti. call centre: Ph: 021-201-18-52/2, Fax: 021-201-18-53 AIR MOLDOVA: 7 E 3, Toma Caragiu St. Ph: 021-312-08-22 ALITALIA: 1, Louis Blanc St. Ph: 021-318-76-65; 021-318-76-61. AUSTRIAN AIRLINES: 6 D 9A, Aleea Alexandru. Ph: 021-204-45-60; Fax: 021-204-84-28 BALKAN AIR (GSA): 6 D 5-7, Eugen Carada St. Ph: 021-314-39-45; Fax:021-314-39-49 BRITISH AIRWAYS: 6 D 15, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-303-22-22; Fax: 021-303-22-11. CSA: 7 D 27, Uruguai St., 1st floor. Ph: 021-223-32-05; Fax: 021-223-08-84. DELTA AIRLINES (GSA): 5 C America House 1st floor. 4-8, Sos. N. Titulescu; Ph: 021-313-35-82; EL AL: 1, Dimitrie Cantemir Blvd. Ph: 021-317-88-60/61 Fax: 021-317-88-62 EMIRATES (GSA): 5C 57, Dr. Iacob Felix St, 1st floor; Ph: 031-403-5030
SAS Scandinavian Airlines (GSA): 5C 57, Dr. Iacob Felix St, 1st floor; Ph: 031-403-5040; Fax: 031-403-5049 KLM: 85, Buzesti St., 2nd floor, Ph: 021-206-9222; 0800-070377; Fax: 021-206-9211. LUFTHANSA: 6 D 9A, Aleea Alexandru, Ph: 021-204-84-10. Fax: 021-204-84-24. LOT: 6 D 41, Gh. Magheru Blvd., Ph: 021-314-1096; 021-317-4228 MALEV: 9 G PGV Tower - 6-6A, Calea Vitan, Ph: 021-326-8072/73; Fax: 021-326-8074. OLYMPIC AIRLINES: 6 D 6, Anastase Simu St., 1st floor, ap. 18; Ph.: 021-316-6360; Fax: 021-316-6365. QUATAR AIRWAYS: 202, Calea Victoriei; Ph.: 021-212-5020, Fax: 021-312-6860.
REGIONAL AIR SERVICES - AIR TAXI: Ph.: 0745-058-654; 0742-055-095
SN BRUSSELS AIRLINES (GSA): 1 B Baneasa Int’l Airport; Call centre: 021-201-1851/2; Fax: 021-201-1853.
SWISS INT’L AIR LINES: Ph: 021-312-0238; Fax: 021-212-5774 TAROM: 7 C 17, Splaiul Independentei. Ph: 021-303-4400; Fax: 021-316-44-44.
6 D 35A, Balcescu Blvd., Ph: 021-311-3210.
TURKISH AIRLINES:
PRIVATE FLIGHTS EUROJET AVIATION: 0 B 61-63, Ion Ionescu de la Brad Blvd., suites 1&2. Ph: 0374-222-777, 0374-222-888, Fax: 021-2693-779 ION TIRIAC AIR: 2 B Sos BucurestiPloiesti, Km 16,5; Ph: 021-230-6081, Fax: 021-204-2224
BANKS ALPHA BANK: Neocity Tower. 237 B, Calea Dorobantilor, 3rd-9th floors; Ph.: 021-209-2100; BANC POST: 6 - 6A, Calea Vitan; Ph.: 0800-110-200, 021-302-0789 BANCA COMERCIALA ROMANA: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 08010801-22; Fax: 021-407-4200
BANCA C.R. FIRENZE ROMANIA: 55, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-1930; Fax: 021-201-1931 BANCA ITALO ROMENA: 2-4, Gara Herastrau St., ground floor - 3rd floors; Ph.: 021-232-0712/26; Fax: 021-232-0738 BANCA ROMANEASCA: 35, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-305-9300; Fax: 021-305-9191 BANK OF CYPRUS: 187 B, Calea Dorobantilor Ph: 021-409-9100
BRD - GROUPE SOCIETE GENERALE: 1-7, Ion Mihalache Blvd. Ph.: 0800-803-803; 021-301-6100; Fax: 021-301-6636 CEC BANK: 11-13, Calea Victoriei Ph.: 021-311-1119; 0800.800.8488; Fax: 021-312-5425 CITIBANK ROMANIA: 145, Calea Victoriei Ph.: 021-203-5550; Fax: 021-203-5565 CREDIT EUROPE BANK: 26Z, Timisoara Blvd. Ph.: 021-406-4000; Fax: 021-317-2066 EMPORIKI BANK: 19, Berzei St. Ph.: 021-310-3955; Fax: 021-310-3991 GARANTI BANK: 5, Fabrica de Glucoza Ave., Novo Park 3 Business Center, F Building, 5th-6th floors Ph.: 021-208-9260; Fax: 021-208-9286 ING BANK: 11-13, Kiseleff Blvd. Ph.: 021-222-1600; Fax: 021-222-1401 LIBRA BANK: 4-6, Semilunei St. Ph.: 021-208-8000; Fax: 021-230-6565 MARFIN BANK ROMANIA: 90-92, Emanoil Porumbaru St. Ph.: 021-2064230; Fax: 021-206-4280 OTP BANK ROMANIA: 66-68, Buzesti St. Ph.: 021-307-5700; Fax: 021-307-5730 PIRAEUS BANK ROMANIA: 29-31, N. Titulescu Ave., Ph.: 021-303-6969, 0800-801-802; Fax: 021-303-6968 RAIFFEISEN BANK: 15, Charles de Gaulle Sq. Ph.: 021-306-1000; Fax: 021-230-0700 ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND: 10, Montreal Sq., World Trade Center-E, 2nd floor Ph.: 021-202-0400, UNICREDIT TIRIAC BANK: 23-25, Ghetarilor St. Ph.: 021-200-2000 VOLKSBANK ROMANIA: 171-173, Mihai Bravu Ave. Ph.: 021-209-4400
EMBASSIES Albania . . . . . . 021-211-9829 Algeria . . . . . . 021-211-5150 Argentine . . . 021-312-1739 Armenia . . . . . 021-319-7604 Australia. . . . . 021-320-9802 Austria . . . . . . 021-210-4354 Azerbaidjan . 021-233-2484 Belarus . . . . . . 021-223-1776 Belgium . . . . . 021-210-2969 Brazil . . . . . . . . 021-230-7825 Bulgaria . . . . . 021-230-2159 Canada . . . . . . 021-307-5000 Chile . . . . . . . . 021-312-7311 China. . . . . . . . 021-232-8858 Congo. . . . . . . 0740-808-009 Croatia . . . . . . 021-313-0369 Cuba . . . . . . . . 021-211-8795 Czech Republic. . . . . 021-303-9230 Denmark . . . . 021-300-0800 Egypt. . . . . . . . 021-211-0938 Finland . . . . . . 021-230-7545 France. . . . . . . 021-303-1000 Germany . . . . 021-202-9830 Great Britain . 021-201-7200 Greece . . . . . . 021-209-4170 Hungary. . . . . 021-311-0062 India . . . . . . . . 021-211-5451 Indonesia. . . . 021-312-0742 Irak. . . . . . . . . . 021-233-9008 Iran . . . . . . . . . 021-312-0493 Ireland . . . . . . 021-310-2131 Israel . . . . . . . . 021-318-9415 Italy . . . . . . . . . 021-305-2100 Japan . . . . . . . 021-319-1890 Jordan. . . . . . . 021-210-4705 Korea/N . . . . . 021-232-9665 Korea/S. . . . . . 021-230-7198 Lebanon. . . . . 021-230-0302 Macedonia . . 021-210-0880 Malaysia . . . . . 021-211-3801 Mexico . . . . . . 021-210-4577 Moldova. . . . . 021-230-0474 Morocco. . . . . 021-317-4124 Netherlands . . 021-208-6030 Norway. . . . . . 021-210-0274 Nigeria . . . . . . 021-312-8685 Pakistan . . . . . 021-318-7873 Palestine . . . . 021-310-7422 Peru . . . . . . . . . 021-223-1253 Philippines . . 021-224-8070 Poland . . . . . . 021-308-2200 Portugal . . . . . 021-230-4117 Quatar . . . . . . 021-233-9053 Russia . . . . . . . 021-222-3170 Serbia & Muntenegro . 021-211-9872 Slovakia . . . . . 021-300-6100 Slovenia . . . . . 021-300-2780 Spain . . . . . . . . 021-233-9190 Sweden . . . . . 021-406-7100 Switzerland. . 021-206-1600 Syria. . . . . . . . . 021-319-2467 S Africa . . . . . . 021-313-3725 Thailand. . . . . 021-311-0031 Turkey. . . . . . . 021-210-0407 Ukraine. . . . . . 021-211-6986 Uruguay . . . . . 021-222-5874 USA . . . . . . . . . 021-200-3300 Vatican . . . . . . 021-313-9490 Venezuela . . . 021-222-5874 Vietnam . . . . . 021-311-1604
TRAINS Romanian railroad is very reliable. We suggest you always travel first class. Tickets can be bought at the station or from an agency (10, Domnita Anastasia, ph: 021-313-2644 [7D]). For information call 01860-0952; for reservation call special # 9522. www.cfr.ro
Dacia R366 Bucharest - Budapest - Vienna 16:10 05:32 09:00
Karpathy R388 Bucharest - Krakow - Warsaw 19:35 05:30 22:54
Muntenia R372 Bucharest - Budapest - Zagreb - Venice 00:20 14:12 23:55 09:18
Intercities Bucharest - Brasov 09:30 12:26 (IC 537) 20:30 22:58 (IC 539) Bucharest - Constanta 07:14 09:40 (IC 581) 13:20 17:16 (IC 583) Bucharest - Timisoara 05:47 13:20 (IC 591) 15:45 23:06 (IC 593) Bucharest - Cluj 13:30 20:52 (IC 531) Bucharest - Iasi 06: 00 12:29 (IC 561) 18:00 23:43 (IC 563)
All the above trains leave from Gara de Nord.
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Bucuresti what, where, when
25
On the following pages, boutiques, major department stores and specialty shops and markets are grouped by the type of product they sell. Most establishments are open Monday to Saturday from 10 or 11 am to 6 or 8 pm closing time. Malls and other boutiques are also open during the weekend, though some may close earlier on Sundays.
SHOPPING CENTERS
COCOR STORE: 29-33, I.C. Bratianu
One can easily find ready-to-wear clothes, shoes, accessories, jewelry, watches, sportswear, lingerie, perfumes and gifts. Food courts can often be found on or near the premises. These shopping centers might be similar in many ways with those that you are already familiar with.
Blvd.
AFI PALACE COTROCENI: 4, Vasile Milea Blvd.
7A
BANEASA SHOPPING CITY: 42D,
44A, Sos. Bucuresti Ploiesti
COMMERCIAL CENTER ORHIDEEA: 210 - 210 B, Spl. Independentei
6A
ESPLANADA SHOPPING CENTER: 20, Sos. Vergului.
GRAND ARENA MALL: 12 Metalurgiei Blvd..
Sos. Bucuresti-Ploiesti
BUCURESTI MALL: 55-59, Calea
JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel
8F
Old department stores in Bucharest are in a transition period. Besides specialized departments, it is not unusual to find a large number of small private “Turkish-bazaar” type stands inside. Crowded but convenient because of their diversity, the Bucharest department stores offer low- to mid- (sometimes even high-) quality products. GALERIILE VICTORIA: 17, Calea Victoriei 7 D BUCUR OBOR: 2, Soseaua Colentina
COMMERCIAL CENTER FEERIA:
GRAND AVENUE SHOPPING GALLERY: 90, Calea 13 Septembrie
Vitan
DEPARTMENT STORES
7D
5F
SUPERMARKETS
8B
CARREFOUR MILITARI COMMERCIAL GALLERY: Autostrada Buc-
JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA: 103 Bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St.
Pitesti, km 11/12
LIBERTY CENTER: 151-171, Progre-
CITY MALL: 2, Sos.Oltenitei.
sului St.
9C
MARIO PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER: 172, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D MILITARI SHOPPING: 546-560 Iuliu Maniu Blvd.
PLAZA ROMANIA: 26, Timisoara Blvd.
RIN GRAND HOTEL SHOPPING GALLERY: 7D , Calea Vitan. UNIREA SHOPPING CENTER: 1, Unirii Square
8D
WORLD TRADE PLAZA: 10, Montreal Sq.
3B
CASH & CARRY METRO: • Militari • Baneasa • Berceni • Voluntari
SELGROS: • Pantelimon, 90, Biruintei Blvd; • Baneasa, 55-65, BucurestiPloiesti • Berceni, 92-108, Turnu Magurele St.
HIPERMARKETS AUCHAN: 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd.
CARREFOUR: • Militari, Autostrada Buc-Pitesti, km11/12. • Colentina, Soseaua Colentina 426 - 426A; • Orhideea, 210, Splaiul Independentei, • Baneasa - Feeria, 44A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti • Unirii, 2, Corneliu Coposu Blvd. CORA: • Lujerului, 19, Iuliu Maniu Blvd. • Pantelimon, 20, Sos. Vergului BILLA: • 102-104, Barbu Vacarescu St. • 23, Brasov St. • 24, Postavaru St. IKEA: 42A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti XXL: 38-40, Soseaua Fundeni
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Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
There are stores in each section of town that present a complete range of products, from European to American, Arabian and Asian. Many worldwide brands are available. Prices may differ slightly because of the location of the store (downtown – periphery) or the availability of products. GIMA: Bucuresti Mall 8 F MEGA IMAGE: Every neighborhood has one!
COSMETICS & BEAUTY BEAUTY SHOP: • Bucuresti Mall
8F
• 27-33, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • 26, Timisoara Blvd. - Plaza Romania SEPHORA: Orhideea Shopping Center CLINIQUE: 100, Calea Victoriei 6 D ESTEE LAUDER: 100, Calea Victoriei 7D
INA CENTER: • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A . • 27, I Campineanu St. 7 D • 14-16, CA Rosetti St. 6 D • WTC Galleries 3 B • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Esplanada Shopping Center • 103, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Jolie Ville • Cora Lujerului • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A MARIONNAUD: • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A PRIVILEGE: • 172, Calea Dorobantilor • Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4D
• Unirea Shopping Center 8 E • Carrefour Militari Gallery, • Carrefour Colentina Gallery, • Selgros Baneasa • Selgros Berceni, • Selgros Pantelimon • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A
FASHION BLISS: Valentino, Louis Feraud, Calvin Klein, Lorenzini; 23, Calea Victoriei 7 D
BERSHKA: Baneasa Shopping City BRAY SUITE ANTHOLOGY: Bucuresti Mall C & A: Fashion for Men and Women. Militari Shopping• Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A
CACHAREL: Fashion for Men. Baneasa Shopping City
CASA FRUMOASA STORE- Luxury men’s wear, handmade shoes & exquisite accessories from: Loro Piana, Tom Ford, Brioni, Scabal, Salvatore Ferragamo, Santoni, Lorenzini, Jacob Cohen, Zimmerli - 40, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. 5 C - Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8 B CANALI: – 196, Calea Dorobantilor 4D
ELEGANCE BOUTIQUE: Classic ladies look, warm textures, garments, leather accessories & shoes, art jewellery - 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel, entrance from George Enescu St. 8 B
ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA - Flagshipstore: Ermenegildo Zegna, Z Zegna, Zegna Sport 63-81, Calea Victoriei 6 D GANT: • 52, Calea Victoriei 7 D • Bucuresti Mall • Baneasa Shopping City GUESS: 87-89, Calea Victoriei 6 D JKRISTENSEN STORE - Luxury ladies fashion & accessories from Salvatore Ferragamo, Loro Piana, Brioni, Blumarine, Alberta Ferretti, Diane Von Furstenberg, Santoni, Fabiana Fillippi, Ermano Scervino - 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel 6 D KENVELO: Bucuresti Mall 8 F
LANCEL: • Feeria Shopping Center; La Perla: 122, Calea Victoriei 6 D L’ARMOIRE - Concept Store: Special evening & office clothing, limited series or even uniques created by Romanian designers such as: Lena Criveanu, Wilhelmina Arz, Elena Perseil, Irina Marinescu, Dorin Negrau, Sepala by Mihaela Glavan, Kinga Varga, Ludmila Corlateanu, Zasha. 1, Intrarea Noptii with 18, Ion Mihalache Blvd. 5 C LOUIS VUITTON: 90,Calea 13 Septembrie (Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery) 8 B
Specialized men’s apparel • 118, Calea Victoriei Cotroceni 7A
6D
• Afi Palace
MANGO: • Bucuresti Mall • Plaza Romania
8F
MARELLA: 21-23,Calea Victoriei 7 D MARIELLA BURANI: • 21-23, Calea Victoriei
7D
MARKS & SPENCER: • Bucuresti Mall 8F
• Orhideea Shopping Center
MAXMARA: 122 A, Calea Victoriei 6 D MENGOTTI: Prada, Dolce&Gabbana, Etro, Fendi, Burberry, Neil Barrett, Moncler, Valentino, Marni, DVF, Parosh, Zagliani, By-The - 48-50, Calea Victoriei 7 D MODA & STYLE: Valentino Roma, Valentino Garavani, Valentino Furs (Roma), Red Valentino, Love Moschino, Class Roberto Cavalli, Emilio Pucci, D & G, Donna Karan, Donna Karan NY, Roccobarocco, Ermano Scervino, Galliano, Stuart Weitzman, Karl Lagerfeld, Cristiano Burani, Givenchy, Love Sex Money, Ferre, Nando Muzi. - Jolie Ville Galleria, first floor. MORA: 4 C Conceptual luxury boutique, carrying a special selection of premium and designer vintage clothing and accessories, as well as a private and exclusive line of the Romanian high-end brand t shirt couture. Paris St. Reservations: 0748-544911. Opened daily from 12:00 until late in the night. MOTIVI: • Baneasa Shopping City • Bucuresti Mall 8F • Plaza Romania NAUTICA: • 35, N. Balcescu BlvdOutlet. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor 55-59, Calea Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti • Fashion House Outlet Centre, West Park, A1 Bucuresti-Pitesti, km 13 No 36 – SEROUSSI: Seroussi, Pierre Cardin - Bucuresti Mall, groundfloor 8 F - Cocor Store, 4th floor - 7 D PAL ZILERI: 63-81, Calea Victoriei 6 D PEEK & CLOPPENBURG: Armani Collezioni, Hugo Boss, Vogue, Burberry, Lagerfeld, Calvin Klein Jeans, DKNY Jeans • Baneasa Shopping City PULL & BEAR: • Baneasa Shopping City RIVER WOODS: • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Mario Plaza Shopping Center. 4 D STEILMANN: • 1-5, Magheru Blvd 6 D • Plaza Romania • Bucuresti Mall 8 F TERZOATTO: Italian Fashion. 172, Calea Dorobantilor 3 B TIMBERLAND: 35, N. Balcescu Blvd.Outlet. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor 55-59, Calea Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti • Fashion House Outlet Centre, West Park, A1 Bucuresti-Pitesti, km 13 ZARA: • Baneasa Shopping City • Plaza Romania
FASHION FOR KIDS Z: Kids fashion. • 112, Calea Victoriei 6 D • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor 8 E • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Unirea Shopping Center 8 D
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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MARKETS IN BUCHAREST
One of the unique and more pleasurable forms of food shopping in Bucharest are the outdoor markets. Due to transportation difficulties, supplies are often copious at one market and nonexistent at another. Of the markets listed here, Amzei market has the best selection and prices. It is advisable to bring your own shopping bags when shopping at the outdoor markets.
Hanul cu tei Arcade
JEWELRY Gold jewelry with precious and semiprecious stones, silver jewelry, watches, purses and other similar goods from famous designers. CELLINI: Italian art in jewelry • 1-3, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • 16, N. Balcescu Blvd. 7 D DAVID SANDU JEWELRY: 30, Smardan St. 1st floor 7 D FOLLI FOLLIE: Jewellery, Watches & Accessories. • Baneasa Shopping City • City Mall - groundfloor FREY WILLE: Framed in 18 carat gold or gold-plated settings, each piece is a work of art in itself: the integrated design sets can be collected as one might collect fine art; also silk scarves and leather handbags, as well as men accessories: cufflinks, leather belts and silk ties. 118, Calea Victoriei 6 D GMT Everytime: Men & women watches: Omega, Mont Blanc, Longines, Revue Thomen, Tissot, Tag Heuer, Rado, Sector, Calvin Klein 172, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D (Mario Plaza Shopping Center) HELVETANSA: Swiss watches: Baume & Mercier, Cartier, Movado, Longines, Piaget, Tissot, Rado, Vacheron Constantin. 88, Calea Victoriei 6 D ZEHAVA JEWELRY: Gallery of hand crafted gold & precious stone jewelry, 43, Lipscani St. 7 D ZEN DIAMOND: Baneasa Shopping City
OPTICIANS OPTICA MALAGA: Large selection of top designer’s frames. 26, C.A. Rosetti St. 6 D OPTIPLAZA: Top designer’s frames, sunglasses, accessories. • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Plaza Romania SOVER: • 102-110, Calea Dorobantilor 5 D • Unirea Shopping Center, Central
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Bucuresti what, where, when
wing ground floor. 8 D • 18, Vergului St. Cora - Esplanada Shopping Center Granitul • Galeriile Victoria 17, Calea Victoriei 7 D • Sover Medlife 365, Calea Grivitei • Cora - Lujerului • Sover Bucur Obor, 2, Soseaua Colentina
FOOTWEAR CESARE PACIOTTI: •101, Calea Victoriei
6D
• 118, Calea Victoriei
6D
ECCO: Men, women, kids & performance footwear. • Commercial Center Feeria • Baneasa Shopping City GEOX: Commercial Center Feeria Unirea Shopping Center 8 D - AFI Palace Cotroceni groundfloor 7A 8 F HUMANIC: • Baneasa Shopping City • Militari Shopping MIHAI ALBU: Selling his own creations of leathergoods and Deluxe footwear. Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8 B
OTTER: •Commercial Center Feeria Unirea Shopping Center 8 D - Carrefour Militari Commercial Gallery – Bucuresti Mall 8 F – 235, Mosilor Ave. – Commercial Center Orhideea 6 A Plaza Romania – Militari Shopping – AFI Palace Cotroceni 7 A – Esplanada Shopping Center.
BOOK STORES NOI: 18, N. Balcescu Blvd.
7D
INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORATION ANATOLIAN CARPET BOUTIQUE: Massive silver objects, Romanian Handicraft, glass objects, home life collection. • Carrefour Colentina. 8 D • 31, Soseaua Kiseleff. 4 C • Unirea Shopping Center. CASA MIA: • Mario Plaza Shopping Center. INNOVA: Crystal, design home accessories, home textiles, Christmas decorations, Limoges porcelaine. • 4, Patriei St. 7 D
SPORTS EQUIPMENT & TRAVEL www.bucurestiwww.ro
• PIATA OBOR: 5 F A huge covered market located behind the Bucur Obor Department Store at the intersection of Calea Mosilor and Calea Stefan cel Mare. Although the selection of goods is big, the market is crowded and appears dirty. Watch your pockets and bags. If you’re looking for a truly Romanian market experience, this is your spot. Pets, including aquarium supplies, are available, as are fishing needs (including live worms, poles, lures). Wooden and woolen goods, ceramics, clothing, as well as plants cut and growing, are available. A large pedigree dog and cat market at least once a month on the street nearest Mosilor is a fun experience. • PIATA 1 MAI: 5 C Located near La Fourmi on Ion Mihalache Blvd. It is a small market but has a good selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers. As with all the above markets, clothing, shoes, and household items for cleaning and cooking may also be found. Honey and other bee byproducts are a national pride of Romania and are found at all of these outdoor markets. • PIATA DOROBANTILOR: 4 D Located indoors on Calea Dorobantilor north of Calea Stefan cel Mare. It offers produce and flowers. The quality is better than Amzei, but the prices are olso higher. Out of season exotic fruits and vegetables can be found here. There are several other stores in this area. The meat market inside is particularly good.
ADIDAS: • 28-30, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall. 8 E • 116-122, Calea Dorobantilor 5 D DECATHLON: Militari Shopping DIADORA: Auchan GBS - WORLD OF BRANDS: Samsonite, Lacoste - accessories, Showroom: • 71, Soseaua Panduri. 8 B (JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel) • World Trade Plaza (Sofitel Hotel) 10, Montreal Sq. 3 B • Henri Coanda Int’l Airport HERVIS SPORTS: • Liberty Center. 9 C • Militari Shopping INTERSPORT: 39, I.C. Bratianu Blvd.
HILTON GOLD ART: 1-3 Episcopiei St. Athénée Palace Hilton. ORIZONT: 23A, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. SIMEZA: 20, Magheru Blvd.
GIFTS ART GLASS: 9-11, Selari St. 7 D “CRAII DE CURTEA-VECHE”: Furni-
8D
LACOSTE: • Baneasa Shopping City • Bucuresti Mall. 8 F
LOTTO: • 225, Calea Mosilor
6F
• Auchan - 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd. • City Mall NIKE: • 25, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall. 8 F • 95, Stirbei Voda St. PUMA: Unirea Shopping Center. 8 E SERGIO TACCHINI: Carrefour - Autostrada Buc.-Pitesti km. 11-12
ture, artifacts, photography, art deco, documents from the last period of the 19th century. 14, Covaci St.
INSIDE-forever gifts by INNOVA: 4, Patriei St.
7D
ROMARTIZANA: 18-20, Calea Victoriei
7D
SARRA BLU’: • Unirea Shopping Center • Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4 D • Bucuresti Mall 8 F TOTEM: Handicrafts & decorations from South-East Asia, India, Africa, South America; Aromatherapy items; Jewelery & fashion accessories; Personalized gifts. • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • 1, Unirii Square 8 D
GOURMET
ANTIQUES Make sure you get a signed receipt when buying antiques in Romania. Ask about an export permit as well. GALERIA NUMISMATICA: Coins, medals, banknotes-expertise & sale. 35-37, Academiei St. 7 D
GALA FOOD and WINE BAR: Portuguese gourmet and a wide selection of Portuguese wines. • 111-113, Calea Floreasca right side of Floreasca Market • 32, Icoanei St.- close to Romana Sq.
ROMANIAN HANDICRAFTS OBART: Vases, glassware and contemporary icons. 20, Magheru Blvd. STICEROM: Authentic glass artifacts
HANUL CU TEI - ANTIQUES, ART GALLERY & AUCTION HOUSE: 7 D Antiques, furniture, porcelain, art glass, jewelery, paintings, decorative art, Oriental carpets, old coins, medals, clocks, ikones & collectibles. The knowledgeable staff graciously assists beginnin collectors, corporate interests & seasoned connoisseurs. C.C. accepted. 63-65, Lipscani St., 1st floor. THOMAS ANTIQUES: combines the shopping experience with the atmosphere of an old, classy bar. Special book collection in the attic; great variety of antiques - furniture, clocks, wall clocks and standing clocks, paintings, decorative art, carpets and other various decorative objects. 19 Covaci St., 1st floor + Attic 7 D
ART GALLERIES CAMINUL ARTEI: 16, Biserica Enei St. GALLERY OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ART OF ROMANIA: 4953, Calea Victoriei
HANUL CU TEI - ANTIQUES, ART GALLERIES: 63-65, Lipscani St., 1st floor.
made on the spot at Curtea Sticlarilor, a courtyartd dating back to 1857. 9-11, Selari St.
TOBACCO SHOPS LA CASA DEL HABANO: Large selection of original Cuban cigars; accessories. 1-3, Episcopiei St. (Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest) 6 D
LIQUOR SHOPS VINLUX: Large selection of special Romania & Imported wines, cognacs, champagnes, whiskies, etc. 8, Libertatii Blvd., Bl. 115, ground floor 8 C www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
29
To make your choice a bit easier, we have selected a number of places for you. The following restaurants currently advertise in B3W Magazine or are otherwise worthy of note. Each listing has a code corresponding to the gridded area on our visitor’s map. Hours, prices and entertainment are subject to change.
ASIAN CUISINE Benihana Restaurant:
6D
offers authentic Japanese teppanyaki cuisine and a renowned sushi bar. Six skilled Asian cooks prepare the food in front of your very eyes, tantalizing your senses. For any lover of premium-quality fish and sea-food, a dinner at Benihana becomes an unforgettable experience. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Phone: 021 201 5030, Open: 12:00 – 15:00, 19:00 – 23:00 last order. Cafe' Shangrila: Thai, Filipino, Chinese and Japanese food prepared by world class and versatile Asian chefs. Also serves choices of continental breakfast, salads, selection of wines and beverages. A place to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and have a taste of the scrumptious cake selections. Take out food service available. 172, Calea Dorobantilor (Mario Plaza Shopping Center) Ph.: 021-230-47-69. Open: 10:00 - 21:00 Maiko: 2 C One of the most fashionable Restaurant, Bar & Lounge. The ethos behind Maiko is that the true aims of cooking are to give pleasure and satisfaction to guests, to communicate trough each individual ingredient emotion, personality and culture; to create a special event with every dish, to produce a series of little surprises that invariably introduce a new flavour. The restaurant is always delighted to host your Business Lunches, daily between 12:00 and 15:00, and to offer you the perfect 25 Euro meal for such an occasion ( Includes Salad, Rice, Miso Soup, Meat or Fish Dishes). 27-29, Grigore GafencuSt. Ph.: 021-233-2633, 031-805-3985, 0751-262-465, 0730-562-456; Open: daily 12:00 - 24:00
Mandarin: Explore the exotic flavor of the Asian with Mandarin cuisine. Come join us and taste! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021206-8066. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 pm (22:00 – last order) Orasul Interzis (The Forbidden City): 6 E “Orasul Interzis” is the first luxury Chinese restaurant which aims at offering a true gastronomic experience due to the specialties that feed both the body and the soul. The restaurant as well as the terrace can host private and corporate parties, business lunch/ dinner, work groups, meetings and other events, in a selected and refined ambiance. Enjoy the exotic menu and the business lunch special offer, Monday to Friday, 12:30 to 16:00. For those of you who are very busy but still want to flatter their senses by trying these dishes, this little Asian gastronomic paradise can come to their homes. C.C. accepted, wireless Internet, air conditioned, smokers/ non-smokers area, home delivery. 3, Silvestru St. Ph.: 031 425 47 47; 0720 99 3333. Open: 12:30 – till the last guest.
BELGIAN CUISINE La Belle Epoque: 4 D The largest selection of Belgian beers in town. Belgian and international cuisine. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 6, Aviator Radu Beller St. Ph.: 021-230-0770; Open: 11:30 - 24:00. Waterloo: 7 F Original Belgian recipes with Belgian Beer. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking. 188, Traian St. Open daily from 12:00 - until the last guest leaves (24:00 last order)
FINE DINING 2 A The feather in the Crowne Plaza’s cap, this is the hotel’s flagship restaurant, a work of great detail where everything is lovingly prepared by
The Vinyard:
Executive Chef Ashlie Dias and his highly experienced team. Based around Mediterranean cuisine you can always expect to find something special and a bit different on the daring menu, as well as a number of hot dishes requiring waiter and audience. An indulgent treat. Reservations highly recommended. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Non-Smoking. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 17.00 – 23.00, Closed Sat, Sun.
FRENCH CUISINE 6 D Exquisite restaurant in a historical building, hosting Casino Palace. Luxurious interior. Also Romanian cuisine. C.C accepted. 133, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9744; Fax: 021-311-1645. Open: 18:30-01:00. La Bastille: 5 D Down the Caderea Bastiliei St. c’est la France qui vous acceueille... French specialties mastered by the Chef Philippe Faynot, served in refined atmosphere accompanied by a perfectly balanced choice of execelente french and romania wines. Special business menu (12:00 - 16:00). C.C. accepted. Air conditioning. Ph.: 021-310-7359; Fax: 021-310-7360. Open: 12:00-24:00. La Bonne Bouche: 7 D Bistro & Wine Bar. Warm atmosphere, friendly staff. Check the extensive wine list. Chef’s weekly menu. Not cheap, but good value for money! 30, Franceza St. (Old Town); Ph.: 0731-247876; Open: 12:30 – 24:00, Mon. 18:30 – 24:00 La Cantine de Nicolai: 5 C Semi-gastronomique French restaurant. Sami Babou, the "Special Delegate" of Chef Alain Ducasse, brings great joy to your sense of taste with his elaborate recipes. Pop-art sculptures and paintings complete the sophisticated atmosphere. The terrace - away from the public eye is perfect for discreet business lunches or romantic dinners. Their credo is: Delight - Privacy - Art. 15-17, Povernei St. Ph.: 0725-210-608, 037-274-6213. Open daily: 11:00 till late (23:00 last order). L’Estaminet: 6 B French restaurant, within the new Ibis Continental Nord Hotel. CC accepted. 143, Calea Grivitei. Open: 7:00-22:30. The Epoque Bistro: Would you like to see the Chef in action? The Epoque Bistro features an open kitchen in which you can actually witness the creation of our splendid French cuisine and Steak house specialities. The Epoque Bistro welcomes you with a winter garden and 90 seats, available for private parties & events. Epoque Bistro’s Chef is renowned for its modern French menu featuring delicate flavours created from luxury and quality ingredients. Extensively trained in the best international cooking schools, he welcomes you every day to his authentic exquisite Frech Cuisine specialities and last but not list the Steak house dishe. The restaurant’s speciality is its 6course tasting menus, but there is also catering for vegetarians, as well as an à la carte menu. The facilities are: smoking and non-smoking feature; free high speed WI-FI internet access; air conditioning; daily newspaper; CC accepted, guarded free parking lot . 17C, Aurora Entr. (Epoque Hotel); Ph.: 021- 312-3232. Open: 06:30 – 23:00.
Casa Vernescu:
FUSION/CONTEMPORARY CUISINE Avalon: 6 D A fine dining atmosphere, fusion and avant-garde cuisine using exquisite ingredients and innovative cooking techniques make dining at Avalon restaurant an unforgettable experience.
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Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Phone: 021 201 5030, Open for breakfast 06:30 – 10:30, lunch 12:00 – 15:00, dinner 19:00 – 22:30 last order.
GERMAN CUISINE Die Deutsche Kneipe: 5 D Traditional German cuisine, drinks and atmosphere. C. C. accepted. 9, Stockholm St. Ph.: 021-233-9462, 021-230-1120 0722-284560. Open: Mon.-Sat 15:00 - 23:00. Sunday closed.
GOURMET CUISINE Champagne & Caviar Bar: 5 C An exclusive location, a gorgeous villa in the heart of the city, welcomes you in a refined and relaxing ambiance. You can taste here the finest Champagnes & Premium Selection Caviar and special Delicacies Menus: Kamatchatka King Crab Merus on Bed of Home Made Ravioli, Lobster Tail Salad with Truffled Carpaccio, Fresh Tagliateli with Prawns & Black Truffles. High Class services, VIP treat & Valet Parking any time of the day. CC accepted, wireless internet, air conditioned. 40, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves; Reservation is highly recommended. Ph.: 021-317-6007; 0733-735-932. Prime Steaks & Seafood: 6 D An outstanding culinary experience, either for a business lunch or simply for a relaxing escape. The menu showcases an elegant selection of gourmet food such as the world’s best steak, Irish Hereford Prime Rib-eye, or King Crab from Alaska, everything prepared in the inviting open kitchen. Complementing the gourmet menu, the extensive list of beverages includes worldwide famous wines, as well as a unique selection of awarded Romanian wines. 44 places. Red glass for show kitchen, walk in wine cellar. CC accepted. Nonsmoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: Mon. – Fri. 12:30 - 15:00; daily 18:30 - 23:00.
INDIAN CUISINE Agra Palace: From the City of Agra, once capital of the famous Mogul Empire, where the white marble of Taj Mahal guards the banks of river Yamuna, among the Hibiscus flowers and majestic archways, chef Arun Kumar has brought the essential: the mysterious taste of India. C.C. accepted; Free Wi fi internet access; Guarded parking lot. Open: 12:00 .- 24:00 Sos. Pipera-Tunari nr. 47. Ph: 021-350.31.14 Taj: 8 B Indian cuisine. Genuine Northern Indian menu creared by Indian chef. Special brunch offer. Indian live show, Fri & Sat. Indian decoration, soft music, pleasant atmosphere, separate smoking area. Air conditioned; terrace. C.C. accepted. Parking lot. 127-131, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-410-1820. Open: 12:00 - 02:00.
story behind it, giving any gourmand a hint of what is to be expected. C.C. Accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open: Breakfast 06:30 - 10:30 weekdays; 07:00 - 11:00 week-ends. Barbizon Steak House: 3 A Pullman Bucharest World Trade Center introduces its restaurant with a capacity of 65 seats. Taste premium quality meats and choose from over 50 International wines (Red, White and Rose). Live cooking in the show kitchen. New menu starting January 2011. 40 seat designated smoking area. Air Conditioning. CC accepted. Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Friday: Lunch 12:00 – 15:30; Dinner 18:00 – 23:30; Saturday & Sunday: Dinner 18:00 – 23:00; Ph.: 021 202 1635. Hotel Pullman, 10, Montréal Square. La Brasserie: 2 A Less about fine dining but more about good quality, simply food for the whole family. The menu is available buffet-style or a-la-carte and gives a great choice for groups. The wine list remains a work of art and the atmosphere is cozier than ever. Sunday Brunch is back, with playground and a professional nanny to supervise the kids, smoking area and free parking. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Live Music, Non-Smoking, Take Away. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open daily: 06.00 – 23.00 Café Athénée: 6D The new Cafe Athenee is a contemporary place paying homage to its historic location on Revolution Square, the site of some of Romanian history’s most momentous events. During the day the menu offer brings classic European dishes with a modern twist, linking the contemporary design with the glamorous history. As the evening comes the Cafe becomes more of a lounge with candles and music, providing a casual and cozy atmosphere. Specialties to spoil the appetite are served during the night from the ‘Bubbles & Bites’ menu. Deluxe gourmet items along with sparkling wines in all variations are among the best one can get in Bucharest. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Open: 08:00 - 24:00. Cafe Theatro Restaurant: 7 D The heart of the Novotel hotel is the elegant Cafe Theatro restaurant, known for its distinct ambiance, international cuisine and superb buffets. Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 30. Open daily: 06:00 - 23:00. Caredy * Casa Ardeleneasca: 4 C Transylvanian & International cuisine restaurant, placed in an esquisite villa. Large offer and special selection of
wines. C.C. ccepted.Guarded parking lot. 1, Sofia St. Ph.: 021-230-2769. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves. Casa Capsa: 7 D Established in 1852, Casa Capsa is the symbol of the Romanian high-life society. The founder, Grigore Capsa (1841-1902) introduced from the very beginning the occidental standards of quality and refinement. He made Capsa's name a well known commercial brand all over the continent. Having a very good position, this old and famous restaurant is placed right in the focal point of the Bucharest historical center. CC accepted. 36, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-313 40 38 Open: 12:00-24:00 Casa Doina: 5 C Large villa dating from the 19th century transformed into a very nice restaurant. Wine cellar. Terrace. C.C. accepted. 4, Soseaua Kiseleff. Ph.: 021-222-3179. Open: 12:00 - 01:00. Casa Doina La Parc: 2 A the perfect mix of Romanian and International cuisine; a traditional ambiance with modern elements. Its garden is the perfect place for our guests to spend the midday or Evening. 3-5 Poligrafiei Ave, (inside Ramada Parc Hotel), phone 021-315200 ; 021-549-2541. Open: 12:00 - 23:30. Chez Marie: 6 D Try the wide selection of international cuisine and special wines in this recently opened restaurant located in the heart of the city. 48, Dionisie Lupu St. Ph.: 031-107-2033; 0721-376-118. Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. Concerto: 7 D We recommend you will take your time to indulge in the special dishes of our fine dining restaurant, Concerto. Concerto is a gastronomic restaurant based on a modern concept of cooking – “nouvelle cuisine”. Delicate dishes made up with creativity invites you in a delightful journey of tastes. The wine list is complex, including selections from all the regions of our country and also from France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, North and South America. A professional team will counsel you regarding the dishes and the wines, accompanying you through the whole meal. C.C. accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open: Mon. Sat.: 12.00 –16.00; 19:00 - 23:00. Corso: 7 D You may take your business downtown and treat yourself and your partners with a special mix of international and Romanian cuisine, on a light lunch buffet. In the evening, a team of Romanian chefs wows you with authentic Romanian dishes presented with cosmopolitan attitude. The spectacular view on to the Bucharest’s busiest boulevard is complimentary! 85 seats. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4, N. Balcescu Blvd. - InterContinental Hotel - Ground floor, Ph.: 021-305-1060, Open: 06.30 -
INTERNATIONAL CUISINE Allegro: Enjoy the flavors of International - Mediterranean refined cuisine superbly executed and served with professionalism. Cosmopolitan and casual atmosphere at breakfast & lunch and more elegant overtoues in the evening. CC accepted. 44A, Daniel Danielopolu St. - Ramada Bucharest North Hotel. Ph.: 021-233-5000. Open: breakfast 07:00-10:00; lunch 12:00-15:30. dinner 18:30-23:00. American Beer House: 7 G American-style decorations, first - class service. Also Romanian cuisine. CC accepted. 92, Drumul Taberei St. Ph.: 021-444-1777. Open: 11:00 - midnight Arcade - Atmosphere & Gourmet: 4 C Finest culinary experience in a charming setting surrounded by paintings from a well-known art gallery. Refined atmosphere, excellent service. Two private rooms, nonsmoking area, Guarded parking lot, CC accepted. 8, Prof. Ion Cantacuzino St. Ph.:021-260-2960; 0753999-333; Open: 12:00-24:00. Balkan Bistro: 7 D You are invited to Balkan Bistro, where the enticing dishes will offer you the perfect Balkan flavor. The restaurant hosts a modern atmosphere dominated by the red and black colors (specific to all Balkan countries). The menu offers traditional dishes allowing you to sense the gastronomic influence of the countries which belong to this particular region: Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Turkey, Serbia. Every dish has an interesting www.bucurestiwww.ro
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23.00, Business Lunch Buffet Mon-Fri 12:00 - 16:00, enjoy “Great Brunch! Guest Love!” Kids room with entertainment. Dacia Felix: 6 D Group restaurant for 224 persons. Delicious breakfast buffet. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: Mon.-Fri. 6:30 - 10:30, Sat. & Sun. 7:00 - 11:00, Sunday Brunch 12:00 - 16:00. Hotel Marshal Restaurant: 7 E From the glassy salon, the open kitchen and the charming covered terrace, Marshal Restaurant is waiting for you with delicious dishes carefully selected and prepared in front of you. Our secret: the charcoal grill. Fresh imported Argentinean beef and New Zealand lamb. C.C accepted. Air conditioned. Guarded parking. 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St.; Ph.: 021-314-0880; Open: 07:00-01:00 Ici et La: Philippe Dupré, French chef, welcomes you in a warm ambience ideal for business lunches or family dinners. The restaurant has an open kitchen and a view to Piata Romana, where you will taste their specialties: home made smoked salmon, beef tartar or even a French cheese and charcuterie plate. Special evenings every Thursday. 43, Mendeleev St. Ph: 0731-453 608 Open: Mon.-Sat.10:00 to 23:00 Jadoo: 7 E Mediterranean & International cuisine restaurant. Special lunch offer - 20% discount (food only). Wood oven baked pizzas. Catering services available in neighborhood (12:00 - 15:00) Smoking and non-smoking areas. Parking lot available. C.C accepted. 3, Nicolae Racota St. - entrance from Clucerului St.; Ph.: 021-222-0502; 0724-365-583. Open: 12:00-until the last guest leaves (23:30 - last order) La Boema: 7 D Enjoy the European cuisine, the selected French dishes in the "La Boema" Restaurant. The relaxing atmosphere and the delicious dishes will make you realize why it is called "La Boema"... And if you have not understood yet, we bring especially for you an entire collection of refined wines. C.C. accepted. Air Conditioning, parking. Calea Vitan Barzesti; Ph.: 031-106-1111 ext. 345 Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves. Majestic: 7 D The Majestic Restaurant offers Romanian and International cuisine, accompanied by excellent service, in an attractive ambience. Capacity: 100 places; air conditioning, smoking/non-smoking areas, main CC accepted; summer terrace. Besides the Restaurant, Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel offers the clients Multi-functional BallRooms - elegant locations for parties, weddings, cocktails. Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel – 38-40, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: (021) 310 27 20; Fax: (021) 310 27 99 Open: daily 07:00 – 23:00. Manolo: 6F Elegance, refinement, finesse, good taste, privacy and discretion, an ideal place for meetings. Top chefs spoil their guests with specialties and are waiting for you. Nelu Ploiesteanu, Rodica Cretu and their guest entertain you daily starting 18:00 hours. 97, Pache Protopopescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-2524513; 0724-263-271 Paris Bucarest Brasserie: 2 B Pullman Bucharest’s newest restaurant. Indulge yourself with a tempting buffet for breakfast and lunch. Free WiFi access. Air conditioning. Non smoking area. Breakfast Buffet: Mon. – Fri.: 06:00 – 10:00, Sat. & Sun.: 06:00 – 11:00; Lunch Buffet: Tue., Wed., Thu.: 12:00 – 14:30. 10, Montreal Sq., Ph.: 021-318-3000 Poem: 9 D Modern European Cuisine. Indulge in the intimate and classic atmosphere, enjoy a refined menu and quality service. Offering breakfast, lunch & dinner, business lunch. Special wine collection and drinks at the Tower Bar or the Piano Club. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking lot. 23-25, Suter Entr. (Carol Parc Hotel) Ph : 021-336-3377; Open 07:00 – 1:00 Red Angus Steakhouse: 7 D Located in the Old Downtown of Bucharest, in front of the Old Court, this restaurant wants to be your first option for a steak. They are committed to provide you with outstanding hospitality and serving you the best steaks. Their USDA Choice steaks are highly marbled with enriching flavor, tenderness and juiciness of the www.bucurestiwww.ro
meat. Whether you are planning a business dinner, an anniversary or a large corporate meeting, they will satisfy your preference in a friendly and professional manner. CC accepted, air conditioning, smoking and no smoking area, Wi-Fi, TV; 56 Franceza St, Old Town Ph: 021-312-0383 Open daily: 12:00-24:00 Sangria: 5 D International menu, few Spanish dishes, nice atmosphere. Open/covered terrace! C.C. accepted. 78, Caderea Bastiliei St. Ph.: 021-211-2276; Open: 12 pm - 12 am. Times Restaurant: 7 G Panoramic view restaurant with great Romanian and International cuisine at Golden Tulip Times Hotel. C.C. accepted. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6516. Open: 12:30-23:00. The Harbour: 6 D You’ve come a long way... you need to relax... dock to The Harbour where you will find a buffer zone, the taste of the finest international cuisine and maybe an acquaintance just to make you feel you belong... Terrace and parking. C.C. accepted. 10-22, Piata Amzei; Ph.: 0724-388-686; Open: 11:30 until the last guest leaves. The Sunlight Restaurant: The culinary world of the angelo Airporthotel Bucharest is provided by this restaurant. A copious buffet breakfast, a gala dinner and a variety of Romanian and international dishes are at your disposal every day. The Sunlight Restaurant has a capacity of approx. 110 persons. For special events such as cocktail parties, anniversaries or dinner parties, the conference rooms can be turned into functional restaurant rooms. And the stylish live music may even put you in the mood for dancing. CC accepted. 283 Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph: 021 20 36 500; Fax: 021 20 36 530; Open 24 hours a day. White Horse Business & Events: Situated in the Northern area of Bucharest, the new established business district of the city, the restaurant offers carefully prepared traditional and international specialties for daily lunch while being in the same time the perfect location for corporate & private events. 12 years of experience, professional services and equipment and the dedicated staff assigned complete the fine quality of the taste. C.C. accepted. Baneasa Business &Technology Park, Building B, wing B2, 4244, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti, Ph.: 031-620-8412; Open: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 18:00
ITALIAN CUISINE Caffé Città: 6 D Northern Italian Menu restaurant for 106 persons. Enoteca, espresso bar, pizzeria, salumeria, gelateria, pasticceria, bakery in a fresh, natural, urban and contemporary mood. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-68, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-601-3436. Open: 11:30 - 23:30. Caffe & Latte: 7 C Wine Restaurant. Our Italian chef will remind you the taste of the real Italian food from the north of Italy, accompanied by the best Italian wines. Rooftop with park view - Cismigiu - in spring/summer. C.C. accepted. 35, Schitu Magureanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-3800; 0744-333-100. Open: Mon. - Sat. 12:00 - 23:00. Cucina: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Authentic Italian food served in rustic surroundings. Fine choice of wines. Calea 13 Septembrie 90. Ph. 021-403-1902. Open: 12:00 - 15:00; 19:30 – 23:30 De Gustibus: 6 F Restaurant, Terrace & Pizzeria. A menu dedicated to only the most simple, appetizing and brilliantly executed Italian dishes, mainly with a Tuscan twinge. Happy Hours 11:30 - 16:00, From Mon. to Fri. 10% Off. Air conditioned. CC accepted. Parking lot. 10, Marcel Iancu St. Ph. 021-211-1449; 0744-520106. Open: 12:00 - 24:00 Osteria Gioia: 5 C Delicious Italian food. Excellent wine selection. Modern, elegant interiors, well trained and friendly staff.16, Ion Mihalache Blvd; Ph.: 021-311-3750; Open 12:00 till late (23:00 last order). Modigliani: 7 D Pasta /Carne. An Italian Original. If you ever feel like savoring an authentic Italian dinner, come at the Modigliani restaurant you can be the guest of its Italian Chef, Andrea Aiudi. Home made pasta, basil, creamy sauces and a whole new world of flavors are waiting to be explored in its cozy atmosphere. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 9,
Batistei St. (entrance also from the InterContinental lobby), Ph.: 0730-644-806, Open: Mon-Sat 18.00 - 04.00 Ristorante Da Renzo: 8 F Delicious Italian food & excellent wine selection. Daily special lunch offer. Smoking & non smoking areas; CC accepted. 13, Constantin Nottara St.- close to In City Residences (ask your taxi driver), Ph: 0721 587 560; 0744 299 499, Open: 12:00 till late Roberto’s: 6 D You’ll step into another world when you dine at Roberto’s, the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest hotel’s smart Italian restaurant. Soft lighting, frescoes of Italy on the walls and views of the terrace make this a romantic place for dinner. Locals and guests enjoy regional, authentic Italian food and an extensive list of wines. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777; Open daily: 06:30 - 10:00; 12:00 - 23:00. Trattoria “Il Calcio”: 6 D Extensive menu of Italian dishes. Large selection of wines, beers and spirits. Nice interiors, relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff. 14, Mendeleev St. Ph.: 021-312-2430; 0722-134-299. Open: Sun - Thu: 12:00 - 24:00, Fri - Sat: 12:00 - 01:00. Zigolini: A taste of Italy in Zigolini Ristorante! A deliciously intimate dining experience nestled in the most elegant Galleria of Bucharest! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021-2068069. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 (22:00 – last order).
MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE
D4 NEW !!! Traditional Romanian cuisine, folk music band, select atmosphere, terrace. Business meetings, special events. C.C. accepted. 51, Barbu Vacarescu St. Ph: 0724 891 819; Open:10:00 until the last guest leaves Hanul Hangitei: 7 D Traditional Romanian cuisine. Daily special lunch offer. 16, Gabroveni St. Ph.: 021-314-7046. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves. Locanta Jaristea: A genuine taste of Romania, both food and atmosphere, a real part of the city’s history. C.C. accepted. Reservation neccessary! 50-52, George Georgescu St. Ph.: 021-335-3338; 0744.240.126; Fax: 021-301.98.45. Open: 11:00 02:00. Vatra: 7 D Romanian cuisine. Air conditioning. 23-25, Brezoianu St. Ph.: 021-315-8375; 0721-200-800; Open: 12:00 - 24:00.
Decebal Classic:
SEA FOOD La Veranda:: 2 A The restaurant is housed inside a glass terrace offering wonderful views of the garden outside. It serves exquisite fish and sea food as fresh as the day it was caught. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Smoking free, Outside Seating. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open daily: 12.00 – 23.00.
SPANISH CUISINE Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete
and intimate place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96; 0 722-204-884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00.
VEGETARIAN CUISINE Casa Satya: Vegetarian and Fish Cuisine. Organic Ingredients and Wines. 25, Banu Manta Blvd. Piata Victoriei area, near sector 1 Town-Hall; Ph.: 0788-788-111
COFFEE SHOPS Caffe & Latte: 7 C Italian Coffee Bar & Pastries Shop. One of the best cappuccino in town, just like in Italy. You may come and try it with our homemade pastry. 35, Schitu Magureanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-3143834. Open: Mon. - Sun. 08:00 - 22:00. Cafe Klein: 7 D At Rembrandt Hotel mezzanine, Café Klein is an intimate and pleasant place for all guests who want to enjoy either a delicious breakfast or just a glass of wine. Open 12:00 – 19:00 also for those who are not the hotel's guests. The bar is for non-smokers. Free wi-fi internet inside the bar for all clients. 11, Smardan St. Ph/Fax: 021-313-9315; 021313-9316 Crown Cafe: 2 A The cafe welcomes you with fine cream leather armchairs set around a small atrium in the inside garden of the hotel. Coffee, tea, beer, and later in the evening - the perfect place for cocktails and digestive before bed. The cafe is an entirely
Il Gambero Rosso: 4 D Located in a small and charming villa in the center of the city, this place offers you an original menu, a mix between the famous Italian and French kitchens. Marcello, an Italian who lived almost all his life in France, opened this restaurant where you will find specialties from various parts of Italy and the day specialty, almost always French.Aviator Stefan Protopopescu Str., 64. Ph: 021230-3210, 0730 006 978. Open: 12:00-24:00 Il Giardino: Exclusive atmosphere; exotic cuisine; exquisite ambient. C.C. Accepted. 19, Clucerului St. Ph.: 021-223-1978; 0723-671-657. Open: 12:00 - till the last guest. Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete and intimate place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96; 0722-204-884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00.
MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE Golden Falcon: 7 E Best Turkish restaurant in town. Full range of kebab dishes, Turkish aperitifs and traditional sweets. Catering service available. 18-20, Hristo Botev St. (near C.A. Rossetti Square). Ph.: 021-314-2825; 313-2833. Open: 12:00 - 24:00.
ROMANIAN CUISINE 4 E Caro Hotel’s Romanian restaurant. International cuisine. Wine cellar and terrace. C.C. accepted. Guaranteed parking. 164A, Barbu Vacarescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-208-6100. Open: (restaurant) 16:00 – 24:00. Sunday closed, (wine cellar) 12:00 - 14:30 Caru’ cu Bere: 7 D Historical restaurant (established 1879) in the old town district, behind the National History Museum. Original German style interior. Live music and dancing on weekends. CC accepted. 3-5, Stavropoleos St. Ph.: 021-313-7560; Open: 10:00 24:00. Casa Romaneasca: Authentic Romanian culinary delight in the traditional setting of a Romanian mansion with a splendidly decorated terrace, rich winecellar, large selection of Romanian wines, traditional Romanian customs and hospitality. CC accepted. 285A, Calea Bucuresti. Ph.: 021-236-1510; Ph./Fax: 021-236-1511. Count Dracula Club: 7 D Unique theme restaurant, with a cozy atmosphere. Transylvanian and venison dishes. C.C. accepted. 8A, Splaiul Independentei. Ph.: 021-312-1353; 0788-312-878. Open: 16:00 - until the last guest leaves. Decebal Rustic: G 7 Exquisite Romanian dishes. C.C. accepted. 17, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-321-67-00; 0723-515-009; Open:. 10:00 until the last guest leaves
Caro:
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‘smoking allowed’ venue. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Outside Seating, Smoking free, Take Away, Wifi. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 09.00 – 02.00. La Galette Restaurant & Snacking: 2 B Relaxed & friendly dining atmosphere on the terrace. Wide range of snacks. French bakery. Cakes & pastries. Selection of Teas & Coffees. Take away. Designated Smoking Area. CC accepted.Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Saturday: 08:00 – 22:00; Sunday: 16:00 – 23:00; Ph.:021 202 1633; Hotel Pullman, 10 Montréal Square. Geisha Cafe: High quality coffe in a very popular downtown location. 10, C.A. Rosetti St. Ph.: 021-315-7298. Open: 08:30 - 24:00. Grand Cafe Galleron: Large selection of drinks & coffes, quality simple food. Charming interiors, cozy atmosphere. Located in the heart of the city close to Atheneum in a superb old villa. C.C. accepted. Air conditioning. 18A, Nicolae Golescu St. Ph.: 021-312-4565. Open: 09:00 - 24:00. Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest: Over 1500 sqm building; one of the largest HRCs in Europe, the new Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest has inside seating for 300 guests plus an outside terrace with a view over the lake and additional seating for 150. 32, Kiseleff Avenue. Ph.: 021-206-6261. Open: 12:00 - 23:30 Jolie Cafe: Ideal venue for a coffee break or a business meeting. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking lot. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St., groundfloor. Ph.: 021-206-8067. Open: daily 12:00 - 22:00. Kartell Cafe - Lounge: Nice cafe located downtown in historical part of the city. Friendly staff. Small summer terrace. St. Smardan 7. Ph.: 0749-057-770. Open: 10:00 - till last customer. Serendipity Tea House: 6 D Tea and lots of it. There are more than 55 types of tea available, including the trademark Serendipity, an aromatic yet fruity green tea with more than a hint of strawberries. A quiet location just off an otherwise busy central street make this superb choice for long, peaceful afternoons reading a good book with a great cup of tea or two. Oh, and we should point out that coffee menu is not bad either. CC accepted, free wireless internet available.12, Dumbrava Rosie St.Ph.: 021211.31.00. Open: Mon.-Fri. 15:00-22:00, Sat.-Sun: 12:00-22:00 Tekaffe: 6 B In the beautiful surroundings of the city center, on Victoriei Ave., you can stop a while to pamper yourself with a special coffee or tea and enjoy a tasty cake. If you are leaving Bucharest by train, you can visit their second location near the North Railway Station to take a sandwich or salad for the road. The Tekaffe products are all made by a dedicated team in their own laboratory, with natural and fresh ingredients.143, Calea Grivitei. Ph.: 0372-121 821 Open daily 11:00 - 22:00; 56, Victoriei Ave. (the intersection with Ion Campineanu str.) Ph: 0372 010 327 Open: Mon-Fri 08.00 – 20.00 Sat 09:00 - 15:00 Times Cafe: Large selection of coffee, cocktails and fancy drinks, sandwiches, salads and deserts. Summer terrace. Within the Golden Tulip Times Hotel. C.C. accepted. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6516. Open: 09:00-23:00. Vienna Cafe: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Chocolate, pastry and cake lovers, this is the place for you - known to be so good that ladies go there for a lunch of cakes only! Viennese and International desserts, freshly baked tarts, cakes and pastries. Wedding cakes on order. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021-403-1901; Open: 09:00 - 23:00.
PUBS, COCKTAIL BARS & CLUBS L’Arpège Bar:The perfect place to meet your business partners or to enjoy a relaxing moment while drinking a delicious cocktail. CC accepted. Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Sunday: 08:30 – 01:30; Ph.:021 202 1632; Hotel Pullman, 10 Montréal Square.
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Bucuresti what, where, when
7 D Bar 37 gives you the opportunity to experience the excellent view of Victoriei Boulevard, while enjoying a glass of wine or a gourmet meal among friends. Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 00. Open Mon-Fri: 07:00 - 02:00, Sat-Sun: 09:00 - 02:00. Bla Lounge Bar: 6 D Centre ice bar in atrium for 108 persons. Vodka, Cocktails, Beverages & Snacks in a hear, feel, taste mood. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 09:00 - 02:00; Sun. 09:00 - midnight. Centro Bar & Lounge: 6 D The perfect place for a business meeting or for a relaxing drink after a busy day. Our fresh selection of sandwiches, salads and pastry products make it a convenient place for any time of the day. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Open daily 09:00 – 00:30 Champions: 8 B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. The American Sports Bar and Restaurant. A place for good food, good times and good sports. Live TV Sport coverage on 27 flat screen TV sets. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021-403-1917;Open: 17:00 - 01:00 . Club InterContinental Lounge: 7 D With a contemporary design an authentic touch, this is the perfect place for a meeting, networking, a light meal or just for relaxation, reading, listening to music and watching the unique city view. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4 Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. - InterContinental Hotel, 21st floor, Ph.: 021-310-2020 Open: 06.30 - 10.30 Dark Bla Bar: 6 D Cognac & cigars bar for 34 persons. Single Malts, Cognacs & Cigars in an upscale & late night mood. CC accepted. Smoking. 63-81, Calea Victorie, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021311-9000; Open: 17:00 - 02:00. Dreamer’s Pub & Restaurant 6 C Real pub atmosphere! Draught Guinness, live sports, darts and a wide variety of pub and international food. In the summer we invite you on our amazing terrace located on the roof of the pub and enjoy our large selection of fine wines and cocktails. 111, G-ral Berthelot St. (close to Casa Radio). Ph: 0744.366.350, 0723.112.200. www.dreamers.ro Open Mon – Fri: 10 AM - until the last guest Sat & Sun: 2 PM - until the last guest English Bar: 6 D Relax in the soft lighting and traditional decor of the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest hotel's inviting English Bar. Choose from over 40 whiskies, sip a cocktail or order form the international snackmenu. Enjoy a Cuban cigar to round off
Bar “37”:
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your night. C.C. accepted. St. Episcopiei 1-3. Ph.: 021303-3777/ ext. 6759. Open: 11:00-02:00. The Epoque Lounge Bar: This is the place for powerful business meetings but also for relaxation in front of one of the fireplace, while enjoying a refined drink or just peaceful music. The Epoque Bar welcomes you with its intimate and refined atmosphere, fireplace, terrace and a fine selection of wines and cigars, daily, from 6:30 to 23:00 hrs. Wireless Internet is available in the Lounge just as all around the hotel. The facilities are: smoking and non-smoking feature; nice and cosy summer terrace, free high speed WI-FI internet access; air conditioning; daily newspaper; CC accepted, guarded free parking lot. 17C, Aurora Entr. (Epoque Hotel); Ph.: 021-312-3232. Open: 06:30 – 23:00. The Dubliner Irish Pub: 5 B Genuine Irish atmosphere. Draught beer. Air-conditioned. Very popular among the members of the English speaking community. 18, Titulescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-222-3737; 021-222-9473. Open: 12:00 - 02:00. Gala Wine Bar &Tapas: Taste a large selection of Portuguese wines accompanied by goat cheese or chouriso, pumpkin gem, tomatoes or figs. Porto or Madeira wines or a special coffee will conclude a delicious experience. For desert choose nata pastel, chocolate cake or almond biscuits. One can buy all the above delis in the shop next door. 32, Icoanei St.close to Romana Sq. Ph: 021-210-4039; Open: 10:00 till midnight. The Gin Factory: 7 D Irish Pub & Restaurant International ciusine; Chef’s choice: fish & chips; beefsteak. Lunch: 12:00-17:00. Live music every Wed & Sun; DJ set every Thu, Fri & Sat starting 23:00 C.C. Accepted, free WiFi internet; Digi TV, Sky TV, Smoking areas; 37, Lipscani St. Ph: 021-311-3836 Open: 10:00 – 05:00 (23:00 – last kitchen order; last reservation accepted; 22:00 hours) Green Hours 22 Jazz Café: 5 C Hip and unique. Enjoy exotic cocktails and coffee in a neon-lit, tubeshaped bar, with live, trippy jazz-rock on one end and cozy couches on the other-like spending an evening in a surreal submarine. Also a relaxing outdoor patio that's packed on weekend nights. Music most nights after 9 pm.. Morning coffee or nightly cocktails. 120, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 0722-234-356. Open: non-stop The Harp Irish Pub: 8 D Very popular Irish hangout with great selection of beer, a warming atmosphere downstairs complete with fireplaces candle-lit tables and extensive seating upstairs. Guaranteed to be packed with younger Romanians and expats alike any weekend evening. The second Irish hangout in Bucharest. Air-conditioning. C.C. accepted. 1, Piata Unirii. Ph.:021-335-6508. Open: 09:00 - until the last guest leaves. Intermezzo Piano Bar: 7 D Just the way you might imagine a classic bar: sophisticated but relaxed, chic but comfortable. Located just off the InterContinental Hotel lobby, Intermezzo offers live piano music in the evenings, creating the perfect backdrop after a long working day. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4. Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., Ph.: 021-310-2020, Open: 08.00 - 01.00 James Joyces: 6 C A real Iris pub run by real paddy. 1-3, Valter Maracineanu Sq. Ph.021-311-4177; Just Opened. Mora: 4 C comes to redefine the bar concept, offering customers the chance to taste a wide variety of French champagnes, wines and liquors, as well as champagne-based cocktails. Whether a light and sophisticated lunch, an afternoon business coffee or an aperitivo, a quality evening with friends before a night out listening to live DJ mixes. Parking lots available. Smoking venue. 22, Paris St. Reservations: 0748-544-911. Opened daily from 12:00 until late in the night. Onx Pub: 6 A Lot of fun, karaoke, live concerts & special parties. 290, Splaiul Independentei, Regie P16 Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves.
Orange Bar (lobby bar): If you are looking for a place to enjoy the highest standards, a perfect coffee, fresh sandwiches, sft drinks and the best cognac in town, you most go high, go North! C.C. accepted. 44A, Daniel Danielopolu. St. Ph.: 021-233-5000 Open: daily 10:00-24:00 Pavilion Lounge: 8B Within the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Your favorite drink, accompanied by Chef’s choice of canapés, in a relaxed atmosphere. CC accepted. 90, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-403-1904. Open: non-stop. The Sky Gate Bar: This bar of the angelo Airport hotel Bucharest offers a pleasant and relaxing environment where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, an afternoon tea, a refined cocktail or simply a cigarette in pleasant company. The hotel’s professional bartenders are always there just when you need them. Located right beside the lobby and restaurant, the bar offers its guests an intimate, private area. CC accepted. 283 Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph: 021 20 36 500; Fax: 021 20 36 530; Open 24 hours a day. Thomas Antiques Bar : 7 D Taste the house wine and enjoy it on one of their sunny balconies. Wide range of beers and something special for ladies „French Vanilla” or „Brazilian Nut”. Smoking & non smoking areas; Air conditioned; Free WiFi internet; CC accepted. 19, Covaci St. 1st floor & attic, Ph: 0752 440 818, Open: bar (1st floor): Mon - Thu & Sun: 10:00 – 22:00, Fri – Sat: 10:00 – 24:00, attic: Mon – Sat: 10:00 – 20:00, Sun: 10:00 – 16:00
5 D Beer, wines, spirits and snacks. Close to Turkish Embassy on Calea Dorobantilor. 4A, David Emanuel St. Ph.: 021-211-3151. Open: 11.00 till last gues. Tribute: 6 D First class venue, great live music. 118, Calea Victoriei, Ph.: 0728-742-883; Open: Wed. : 21:00 - 02:00; Thu. - Sat.: 21:00 - 05:00. Victoria Club: 7 D Classic mahogany furniture, leather Chesterfield sofas, warm beige nuances, exquisite services... these are the fine details that will catch your eye and soul in our English Bar – Victoria Club. Here you can taste our delicate teas & coffees brews while engaging in succulent conversation during traditional English afternoon tea time, taste some of our delicious snacks and try something from the list of over 100 spirits. Cigars are available to round off your evening. C.C. accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: 0372 010 300 Open: 09:00 - 24:00. White Horse: 4 D Pub & Restaurant. English & International cuisine. Wide selection of draught beers. CC accepted. 4A G. Calinescu St. Ph.: 021-231-2795. Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves.
Trafalgar Pub:
OTHERS 6 D Chicken-based food. Summer terrace. CC accepted. 28-30, Magheru. Ph.: 021-312-0023. Open: 10:00-23:00. Pizza Hut: 6 D The same menu across the world. CC accepted. 1-7, Calea Dorobantilor. Ph.: 021-201-1755. Open: 11:00-23:00.
Kentucky Fried Chicken:
The Editor: We decline the responsibility for any changes in the schedule.
We have compiled for you a list of the nicest places in Bucharest for nightlife relaxation to help you lose your daily stress. For more details please read our Bucuresti by Night supplement, in the middle of the magazine (where available). NIGHT CLUBS Bamboo: 39, Ramuri Tei St., www.bamboosportingclub.ro Ph.: 0722-132-283, 0788-296-776 Cuando Club: 35-37, Academiei St., www.cuando.ro; Ph.: 0722-505085 Diamond Club & Massage: 30, Regina Elisabeta Blvd, Ph.: 0727-402-436, 0751-370-490 Disco Club Maxx: 290, Splaiul Independentei, www.clubmaxx.ro; Ph.: 021-223-00-39 Embryo: 3, Ion Otetelesanu St., www.embryo.ro Ph.: 0727-379-023 Fuchsia: 18, I. Brezoianu St., www.fuchsia.ro Ph.: 0727-315-713 Gossip: 9-11, Lanariei St., www.clubgossip.ro Ph.: 0721-GOSSIP Kristal Glam Club: 2, J.S. Bach St., ww.clubkristal.ro Ph.: 021-231-21-36, 0721-993-988 Music Club: 31, Baratiei St. Ph.: 021-314-61-97 The Office: 8, Tache Ionescu St., www.theoffice.ro Ph.: 021-211-67-48 Posh Club: 19, Orhideelor Ave., www.clubposh.ro Ph.: 0751-157-575 Session: 47-49, Elefterie St., www.session.ro Ph.: 0729-292-541, 0721-151-649
Studio Martin: 41, Iancu de Hunedoara Blvd., www.studiomartin.ro. Ph.: 0722-399-228 Temple: 25, Splaiul Independentei, www.clubtemple.ro; Ph.: 0748-881-086, 313-35-75, 0727-297-610
MASSAGE PARLOURS Erotic Massage: 50 passion girls in 5 locations same quality and services for your sensual and relaxing moments. www.erotic-masaj.ro J’Adore: Phone: 0735-885-522 VIP Zone: Phone: 0735-885-511 Thai Passion: Phone: 0730-331-133 Jade Palace: Phone: 0730-881-188 Exotique: Phone: 0735-885-500 Ibiza Massage: Erotic, Double, Body and Relaxing Massage. Phone: 021-316-9929; 0727-239-744; www.ibizamassage.ro Karma Massage: Erotic body & relaxing massage. Hotel visits or free car to the downtown salon and back (in 20 min). Free minibar. Open non-stop. By appointment, Ph.: 0722-699-488; 021-327-3884; www.karmamassage.ro Perfect Massage: Erotic, Double, Body and Relaxing Massage. Phone: 0733 571 690 www.perfectmassage.ro www.bucurestiwww.ro
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• Volume 18 • Number 3 • • APRIL 2011 • Published by Crystal Publishing Group srl. http://www.bucurestiwww.ro
Publisher: LUDWIG GELOBTER Coordinating Editor: GABRIEL ARSENE offce@bucharestlife.com Senior Editor: David Beynon
THE LAST WORD
Web Site: Vlad Alexandrescu Editorial Dept. e-mail: office@bucurestiwww.ro Photos:
Crystal Publishing Group 253, Calea Calarasilor Bl 67 A, Suite 4 Bucharest, Romania Phone & Fax: (004021) 323-3829; (004021) 323-7033, (004021) 323-4706
Dear Reader, A few years ago a pocket sized guide to restaurants, and other facilities in Bucharest, started to include a listing of English language publication in their issues. “In Your Pocket” is a nice wellwritten compendium, mostly of restaurant reviews, so I called the editor and inquired why our magazine had not been included. His response was that ”… we do not publicize our major competition.” A couple of issues ago I wrote a ‘tonguein-cheek’ piece about COVRIGI. I was amused to find a similar, though not as well thought out (editor’s opinion) piece on Covrigi in that very same publication. I guess imitation is still the sincerest form of flattery. Nevertheless I still recommend that you try a fresh baked, warm Covrigi during your visit to Bucharest. They are tasty, and fun to eat. Romania is a beautiful country, but you sure cannot learn that by reading foreign publications or watching TV. I, as do most travellers, watch CNN while on the road. During a recent evening I saw a commercial advertising Macedonia, it was beautifully done, and repeated
twice. It made me seriously consider visiting Macedonia on my next vacation. I saw ads promoting Turkey, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece even the Ukraine. Can you guess which country in the Balkan region does not promote itself? Yes, that’s right, beautiful, AND REASONABLY PRICED Romania. All the countries in the Region have been economically depressed, but only one seems to lack the understanding that you have to spend money to make money. In our modest way, we are doing our best to promote Bucharest and Romania, but of course, except for our website, we only reach people who are already here. It is the Tourism Ministry, which needs to reach out overseas, as well as across the borders, and entice more people to come and see for t hemselves. Have a great stay, now that spring has finally come, enjoy. Ludwig Gelobter, Publisher lgelobter@hotmail.com
Financial Manager: Victoria Serban Marketing & Sales Department Senior Sales Executive: Sorin Patrascu sorin.patrascu@bucurestiwww.ro Sales Representative: Onut Gheorghe e-mail: advertising@bucurestiwww.ro GRAPHIC & DTP OFFICE Mihai-Cristian Rampelt mihai.r@bucurestiwww.ro To Advertise in Bucuresti What, Where, When call: Phone & Fax: (004021) 323-3829; (004021) 323-7033 (004021) 323-4706 or e-mail at: advertising@bucurestiwww.ro North America US International Office 201B, Travis Street, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA Ph: +1 337 704 0554 Annual subscription Romania 80,00 Lei Payable to Crystal Publishing Group Banca Comerciala Romana – filiala sector 4 Bucharest Account no.: RO08 RNCB 0075035221160001 (Lei). For all other countries Euro 36,00. Please send the order and a check or money order to Crystal Publishing Group 201B, Travis Street, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA Circulation up to 18,500 copies. Distributed on a complimentary basis in major hotels: Alexander, Ambasador, angelo Airport Hotel, Armonia, Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest, Bucharest Unirii Sq. Hotel, Capitol, Caro, Carol Parc, Central, Centre Ville Aparthotel & Elite Apartments, Class, Confort Otopeni, Confort Traian, Crowne Plaza, Dalin, Dalin Center, Duke, Elizeu, Golden Tulip Times, Golden Tulip Bucharest, Hello Hotels, Herastrau, Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Ibis Gara de Nord, Ibis Palatul Parlamentului, Inter-Continental, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, Lev Or, Marshal, Minerva, NH Bucharest, Novotel Bucarest City Centre, Parliament, Pullman Bucharest, Radisson BLU Bucharest, Ramada Majestic Bucharest, Ramada Hotel & Suites Bucharest North, Ramada Bucharest Parc, Ramada Plaza Bucharest, Rembrandt, Rin, Rin Grand, Starlight Suite Hotels, Tempo, Venetia, Z Executive Boutique Hotel; Airlines and airline offices: Air France, Air Malta, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, Balkan Air, British Airways, Carpatair, CSA, EL AL, Emirates, Eurojet Aviation KLM, LOT, Lufthansa, Malev, Olympic Airways, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, SN Brussels Airlines, Swiss Int’l. Air Lines, Turkish Airlines; rent a car agencies; government offices, business centers, important banks & consulting companies.
B3W is a Romania Audit Bureau of Circulation (BRAT) Audited Publication
© 2011 Crystal Publishing Group, srl. ISSN 1222-5703 All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Reproducerea articolelor fara acordul scris al editorului este interzisa. The Publisher accepts no responsibility for the content of advertisements. Bucuresti What Where When Magazine is printed on paper originated from sustainable managed forests. Printed by: Coprint
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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