BUCURESTI WHAT, WHERE, WHEN - JUNE 2009 by CRYSTAL PUBLISHING GROUP

C O N T E N T S J

editorial

HOTEL INDUSTRY Top Hotel Managers 10 COVER STORY At the Terrace, in Cismigiu 12 FASHION Talking clothes! 13 DINING Mushrooms - Food for a Feast 04, 36 DEPARTMENTS • News, Events and Attractions • The Last Word

Romania A Realm of A dventu r e

Sorana MAN •

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Stores and More Haute Cuisine Nightlife Bucuresti by Night

GLOBAL WARMING IS REAL! Demonstrations, sometimes simultaneous, were held in several cities in the country, to sensitize local authorities into adopting and applying a proper law to protect green spaces, and observe the principles of green urban planning. „EVICTED from my own city” was the slogan of these demonstrations organized

in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Brasov and Targu Mures. This event united children, professors, students, employees, building residents and retired people, all wanting to show their interest in the green spaces and desire for a quality urban environment. The invitation to join the protest is open to other cities in the country.

Bucuresti What Where When Magazine is printed on paper originated from sustainable managed forests.

The tourist season has started, and if your holiday plans include Romania, you should know that you are in a country full of adventure and mystery. Our mountains, haughty and wild, but still so welcoming for worldwide guests who visit them every year, the broad landscapes of the sea and Danube Delta, which preserve some of the purity of the beginning of the world, our churches and monasteries which seem forgotten somewhere in time, in the dark Middle Ages, and which were erected and painted with such talent and devotion, all are places worth heading for, this summer or anytime you return here. Before you even reach them, you will meet the unexpected, the surprising and the adventurous, even in places where you do not want it: along the roads and highways leading you to these fairytale places, as well as on the streets that lead you to the tourist attractions of the cities. Our urban streets are sometimes full of holes, blocked by vehicles on all sides, leading to road jams, one on top of another, bothering the innocent pedestrians who can hardly find room to walk… on the sidewalk. The condition of many of our highways is unfortunately not much better. While in this year of crisis, we have the lowest investments in the infrastructure, while the number of cars has doubled in comparison to 1990, when it was of 2,2 million, there have only been some 70 million Euro dedicated to road construction. Now the car park counts 4,5 million vehicles. The importance of a well-developed infrastructure needs no further iteration. The lack of an adequate infrastructure is the largest obstacle in the development of internal and external tourism, slowing down economic growth and major investments. In a discussion with HotNews readers, senator Sorin Bota, vice-president of the Budget-Finances Commission of the Senate and past state secretary of the Ministry of Transportation in 2001-2005, answered questions regarding the delays in activity, the causes, the current state of the infrastructure and especially questions referring to what is in store for the future, the projects or contracts already signed for building highways. In my opinion, the most important explanation provided, to account for this situation and to identify the measures that need to be taken, is the lack of consistency and of coordination between the ministries of transportation from the successive ruling governments, almost every one of them interrupting projects begun by the previous ones, measures which, if they were not totally annulled, have been temporarily blocked or delayed at best. The Bucharest-Ploiesti highway, for instance, should have been ready in 2008, through a privatepublic partnership contract, but the 2004 government had decided to exclusively finance it from the budget. Bota thinks that a political transportation agreement must be concluded which would outline the main priority projects in this field. Sometimes the argument of a difficult solution is invoked to justify the preposterous prices negotiated by the consultants drafting the feasibility studies, the technical projects and the constructors. The state negotiators get salaries which are too low compared to the responsibility they have regarding contracts of billions of Euro. Even if not all of them are corrupted, they simply lack motivation, they are not interested in obtaining the highest possible advantages for the state. It seems that the construction of highways using grants or structural funds is preferable, as they can be more difficult if not impossible to manipulate fraudulently if they are controlled and monitored. This year the modernization of the Suceava-Cluj road will be completed, a process which is likely to be applied to airports as well, if this work is licensed. The American company Bechtel announced that it will be able to complete the first 200 km of the Transylvania highway, respectively the Campia Turzii – Bors section, by the end of 2012, and that it has resumed negotiations with the Ministry of Transportation for the Suplacu de Barcau – Bors section. According to the contract, this part of the highway must be completed by February 2010. Negotiations are scheduled for the Comarnic-Brasov section, also by using a licensing process. There are still many steps to be taken, but the future does not look that gloomy. Leaving aside hopes and promises, there are ongoing projects and projects close to completion. If the results satisfy the quality requirements, if our roads are durable, solid, allowing for fast and safe travel, you will find adventure in Romania only when reaching the end of your trip. That is, unless you stop along the way at the house of a Romanian family, people full of imagination, a sense of humor and often unpredictable, ready at any time to taste the adventure together with their welcomed guests.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

NEWS, EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS The EU elections, Children's Day, Bookfest Book Fair – are just some of the events in June, a month that promises to be a torrid one in Bucharest. The city remains a swarm, with streets flooded by cars and pedestrians, but many of us have already begun our holidays, moving from the crowded Capital to the sunny beaches of the Black Sea coast, the spectacular Delta or the refreshing mountain resorts. Summer is here!

TOY FAIR AT THE ROMANIAN PEASANT MUSEUM Even if it is not a “traditional” holiday, it is a tradition for the Romanian Peasant Mu-

seum to organize the Toy Fair on the 1st of June, Children's Day. It is an occasion of more or less serious playfulness, by stimulating creativity, and a dialogue between children and the older generations. There will be creativity workshops, in the open air and in the halls of the museum, exhibitions of drawings, sculptures and other objects created by children and students, a toy fair with exchanges and sale of toys and with toys masters.

TIBCO 2009 Between 3 -7 June, Romexpo hosts the 26th edition of the International Fair of Consumer Goods (TIBCO). By participating in

Bucuresti what, where, when

TIBCO, companies can benefit from strong and comprehensive promotion and marketing support, which, if used correctly, could provide them with a series of efficient means, to support their efforts to step up the efficiency of their business and to achieve an organizational optimum. More information, more experience, direct contact with the competition, with existing and future clients, with ever more demanding and well informed consumers, these are the premises of healthy economic growth. As the business climate changed, the exhibitions need to adapt to existing conditions. That is why in 2009 TIBCO will become even more specialized. In this respect, it aims at becoming a forum for discussions and business meetings, including several specialized thematic rooms and strengthening the relations between the organizers and exhibiting companies. TIBCO is unique in Romania since, apart from mediating business relations between participants and specialized visitors, it also provides the framework for comparing the offers of consumer goods with the demand represented by the final consumer.

of Lisbon. And these norms and European directives must be transposed into law and observed by the Members States, unless they negotiated specific derogations. This basically affects all European citizens.

SINEAD O’CONNOR AT THE ARENELE ROMANE Sinead O’Connor will perform at the Arenele Romane, on the 11th of June. The Irish singer is especially famous for the song “Nothing Compares 2 U” and is one of the most controversial stars of the ‘90s. She became known for her short haircut, aggressive attitude and shapeless articles of clothing, as a way of challenging the popular culture in

EUROPEAN ELECTIONS Elections for the European Parliament will take place on the 7th of June, when we elect 33 MEPs out of a total of 736. According to a press release issued by the European Parliament ‘For the 7th time in the Parliament’s 50 years of existence, elections will be held between 4 – 7 June in all Member States’. 375 million European citizens entitled to vote in all 27 Member States will have the possibility to decide on European policies. Participation in the European elections has gradually fallen to below 50% in 2004 and the Eurobarometer estimates this decline will sharpen in 2009, coming down to roughly 35%. Europeans do not seem to be particularly interested in who will represent them in the European Parliament for the following 5 years and Romanians are no exception to the rule. It’s true that the European Parliament does not have the same power as the national ones, given that it cannot initiate draft bills (a prerogative of the Commission in Brussels) and it cannot legislate unless it has the approval of the Council of Ministers, a sort of upper chamber, which brings together the governments of Member States. Yet, its powers were extended (it controls the EU budget, it may censor the Commission) and will be further increased with the adoption of the Treaty

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which femininity and sexuality stood for the same thing. She made her debut in 1986, playing on the soundtrack of The Captive, together with the guitar player of U2, The Edge. One year later her first album was released, “The Lion and the Cobra” (making a reference to Psalm 91) and the hits Mandinka and Troy enjoyed a huge success on alternative radio stations. I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, Am I not Your Girl?, the LP Universal Mother, Gospel Oak, Faith and Courage, Sean-Ns Nua, She Who Dwells…, Throw Down Your Arms and Theology followed. Tickets are available on-line www.ticketpoint.ro or at the Sala Palatului and from Diverta stores.

POLISH MUSIC AT THE ATHENAEUM To celebrate the anniversary of 90 years of diplomatic relations between Romania and Poland, the Symphony Orchestra of the “George Enescu” Philharmonic, conducted by Antony Witt, invites you to come on Thursday, 11 June and Friday, 12 June and enjoy some of the most famous examples of Polish musical creation: Penderecki – The Dream of Jacob, Wojcech Kilar – Polish Dance Krzesany, Wieniawski – Concerto no. 2 for violin and orchestra and Lutoslavski – Orchestra concerto. Soloist: Jakub Jakowikz.

KRAFTWERK IN ROMANIA

Book Fair. Among the writers who will participate in the event will be Peter Esterhazy and Vladimir Sorokin. The 4th Bookfest edition is organized by the Association of Publishers in Romania (AER). AER representatives hope to benefit from the financial support of the Ministry of Culture. According to Grigore Arsene, the president of AER, the costs incurred by the organization of Bookfest are about roughly 300.000 Euro. It hasn’t been yet decided whether visitors will have to pay an entrance fee. On the 18th of June, during the fair, the Writers’ Union awards will be presented. Last year Bookfest was attended by writers famous all over the world, including Orhan Pamuk, Peter Esterhazy or Irina Denejkina.

GOGOL BORDELLO Gogol Bordello is a multi-ethnic Gypsy punk band from the Lower East Side of New York City formed in 1999 it is known for its theatrical stage shows. Much of the band's sound is inspired by Gypsy music, as its core members are immigrants from Eastern Europe. The band incorporates minor-key accorects between 2006-2008, there will be film projections (recordings of international concertos) preceded by brief live recitals by Romanian artists. The entrance is free for the entire period of the festival.

PLACEBO AND EXPATRIATE

The concert will take place on the 12th of June, at Sala Palatului. Kraftwerk (German for "power plant" or "power station") is an influential electronic music band from Düsseldorf. The signature Kraftwerk sound combines driving, repetitive rhythms with catchy melodies, mainly following a Western classical style of harmony, with a minimalistic and strictly electronic instrumentation. The group's simplified lyrics are at times sung through a vocoder or generated by computerspeech software. In the early to late 1970s and the early 1980s, Kraftwerk's distinctive sound was revolutionary for its time, and it has had a lasting impact across many genres of modern popular music.

BOOKFEST Between the 17-27 June, Romexpo will host the 2009 edition of the Bookfest

Placebo is an alternative rock band formed in London in 1994, currently consisting of Brian Molko, Stefan Olsdal and Steve Forrest. To date, they have released five studio albums, six EPs and twenty-seven singles. Their sixth album is expected to be released in

dion and fiddle (and on some albums, saxophone) mixed with cabaret, punk, and dub as well as multiple languages. Phill Jupitus described the band as "a bit like The Clash and The Pogues having a fight... in Eastern Europe," while Kenneth Partridge of The Hartford Courant described lead singer Eugene Hütz's voice as "somewhere between that of Borat and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog". The show will be at Arenele Romane, on June 17, 20.00 hours.

VIENNA MUSIC FILM FESTIVAL The 4th edition of this event, which enjoyed much success during previous years, will take place in the George Enescu Square just as before, near the Romanian Athenaeum, between 19-23 June, daily from 11.00 to 23.00. The area will be turned into a green oasis, with flowerbeds, a lawn and elegant terraces surrounding a few hundreds chairs available for fans of classical music. There will be a 10m x 12m stage, and a 8m x 6m screen. Following the structure of the proj-

June. The band has gained international recognition, including some of the non-English speaking world. They have sold over one million albums in the U.K. and over ten million worldwide. Thus far, Placebo are best known for hit songs such as: "Nancy Boy", "Pure Morning", "You Don't Care About Us", "Every You Every Me", "The Bitter End", "Meds" and a cover of the Kate Bush song "Running Up That Hill". Placebo's style has varied greatly.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

Over time, their sound has softened in intensity. The band's first album featured a raw sound and a fairly minimalistic instrumental line-up. But their later albums have had a slower, more melancholy tone and they started experimenting with synthesizers and other, less traditional, modes of sound production (particularly after Black Market Music). The band Expatriate (from Australia, recently

formed in Berlin) which will open the concert, made its debut with the album “Midst of This”, a success which brought the band two nominations (Best New Band and Best New Album) at the ARIA awards. You will hear to Ben King (voice and guitar), Chris Kollias (drums, percussion), Damian Press (guitar) and Dave Molland (bass) and of course Placebo on the 21st of June, at Romexpo.

TARJA TURUNEN CONCERT The event will take place at the Sala Palatului on the 22nd of June, at 8 p.m. It is part of the European tour Summer Storm 2009. In a very short time, soprano Tarja Turunen became one of the most well known international rock performers, being the legendary voice of one of the most appreciated symphonic rock bands, Nightwish. Tickets cost 70, 90, 110, 130 or 150 lei and may be obtained from Diverta shops or on-line at ticketpoint.ro and myticket.ro.

BRAHMS’ REQUIEM The concerto on Thursday, 25 June and Friday, 26 June at the Romanian Athenaeum wraps up the 140th season of the Philharmonic in Bucharest with this masterpiece of the international vocal-symphonic repertoire. The Symphonic Orchestra conducted by Cristian Mandeal and the Chorus of the “George Enescu” Philharmonic, conducted by Iosif Ion Prunner, will perform a Brahms Program including Concerto no.2 for piano and orchestra and the German Requiem.

Bucuresti what, where, when

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CHANGER CAMP Enrolling in the competition ‘Be a Changer’, which was initiated in 2008 and continues until the 30th of June 2009, may be a great step forward in attacking a problem that is affecting us all: climate change. If you want to get involved in the fight against climate change you must have a changer profile. Your profile is available on the site www.changer2008.eu. Here you can change your contact data, you can meet your supporters and contact other changers directly. You can upload pictures on your profile, showing what you do as a changer.

concert program

GEORGE ENESCU PHILHARMONIC The Romanian Athenaeum 1-3, Franklin Str, Tel: 021-315- 0024, www.fge.org.ro

All concerts begin at 19 hours and are held at the Romanian Athenaeum Concert Hall

Tuesday June 2, The small concert hall

Tuesday June 16, The small concert hall

Tuesday Evening Series Cristian Fatu – violin ( SUA ) Verona Maier - piano Beethoven- Sonata no. 10 in G major Debussy – Sonata in G minor Schubert – Rondo brillant Ravel - Tzigane Host: Daniel Enasescu Partners: Sinaia European Cultural Center „Friends of Music” Foundation - Serafim Antropov Co-producer TVR Cultural

Tuesday Evening Series Harp recital Ioana Comsa Johann Sebastian Bach – Partita no.3 in E flat major Marcel Grandjany – Fantasy on a Theme of Haydn Claude Debussy – Danses pour harpe Miruna Vidican Johann Sebastian Bach - Suite in C minor Paul Hindemith – Sonata Host: Mihai Cojocaru Co-producer TVR Cultural

Tuesday June 9, The small concert hall Tuesday Evening Series "Mabel and the Destiny" – very light comedy by T.B. Morris Performers: Mirela Nicolau - Mabel Knowles Ela Ionescu - Sonia Lancaster Ana Donosa - Pearl Willison Victoria Dicu - Desdemona Cianvelli Rozana Radu - Daphne Knowles Monica Anastase - Faith Mihai Cojocaru - John Ponsonby Knowles

Thursday June 11& Friday June 12 The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Antony Witt Soloist: Jakub Jakowikz 90 years of diplomatic relations between Romania and Poland Penderecki – The Dream of Jacob Wojcech Kilar – Polish Dance Krzesany Wieniawski– Concerto no. 2 for violin and orchestra Lutoslavski – Orchestra concerto

Wednesday June 17 Piano recital Nicolae Dumitru Toduta – Passacaglia Mozart – Sonata in F major, KV. 332 Beethoven – Sonata in F minor, op. 57, ”Appassionata” Rachmaninov – 3 picture studies op. 39 Liszt – Fantasia quasi sonata Wednesday June 17, The small concert hall Piano recital in collaboration with ”Remember Enescu” Foundation Soloists: Cristian Sandrin, Xenija Vukadinovic, Sinziana Alexandru Program: J. S. Bach, W. A. Mozart, L. van Beethoven, Fr. Chopin, S. Prokofiev, G. Enescu

Tuesday June 23, The small concert hall Tuesday Evening Series Piano recital Octavia Marc and Andrei Marta (Cluj) Program: Octavia Marc: J.S.Bach – Prelude and fugue in B major F. Liszt – Spanish Rhapsody Andrei Marta: L. van Beethoven - Sonata op.10 no.3 în D major S. Rachmaninov – Three preludes: op.23 no.4,5 ?i 7 G. Enescu - Bourree from Suite op.10 Host: Mihai Cojocaru Co-producer: TVR Cultural

Thursday June 25 & Friday June 26 The Symphony Orchestra and the Chorus of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Cristian Mandeal Soloist: Oxana Corjos Program: Brahms - Concerto no. 2 for piano and orchestra - The German Requiem Soloists: Lavinia Mamot, Ionut Pascu Conductor of the Chorus: Iosif Ion Prunner

JULY 2009

Thursday June 18 & Friday June 19

Thursday July 2 & Friday July 3

The Symphony Orchestra and the Chorus of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Ch. Olivieri Monroe Conductor of the chorus: Iosif Ion Prunner Mahler – Symphony no. 2

The Symphony Orchestra and the Chorus of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Justus Franz Haydn – The Creation Conductor of the chorus: Iosif Ion Prunner

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hotel Industry

Top Hotel Managers – Romanian or Foreign Nationals? Sorana MAN •

Businessmen from all over the world come here to invest, to seal new partnerships or to manage the business they have initiated. Add to this Romanian top managers or the successful employers from different parts of the country who come to the Capital and turn to four and five-star hotels, in search of maximum comfort and high quality hotel services - just like many of the tourists on pleasure trips - which depend to a significant extent on the management quality, the experience and skills of the general managers.

Amid Romania's economic growth in the past years, before the current international economic turmoil, we experienced a boom in the hotel market. Romania’s capital, being at the crossroads between the prosperous West and the refined and spiritual Eastern culture, has a specific drawing power supported both by its cultural traditions, renewed and enhanced nowadays, by the architectural beauty and the people's hospitality, thus a tourist attraction, and by its importance as a transit point for foreigners coming to pay a visit to the Romanian Black Sea resorts, the Danube Delta or the mountainous areas of the country. However, Bucharest is not only a holiday destination, but it has lately come to be increasingly regarded as the business capital of Eastern Europe. Businessmen from all over the world come here to invest, to seal new partnerships or to manage the business they have initiated. Add to this Romanian top managers or the successful employers from different parts of the country who come to the capital and turn to four and five-star hotels, in search of maximum comfort and high quality hotel services - just like many of the tourists on pleasure trips - which depend to a significant extent on the management quality, the experience and skills of the general managers. Even though many multinational companies in Romania began to use local top managers several years ago, the large hotel chains still prefer to develop their domestic business with the help of foreign managers, explaining it as the group policy, the lack of know-how of Romanian managers or the poor training environment of the local hospitality industry. The lack of experience and tradition, the absence of a tourism culture render dedicated schools not only necessary, but an emergency need to train specialists to the highest standards of service, both managers and staff. Here is what Pierre Boissel, General Manager of Crowne Plaza, told us in an interview several months ago, regarding the

Bucuresti what, where, when

changes EU accession brought to Romania: “In our business, it is not the Romania that I used to know. Many trained, professional people have left the country. It is good for them, but in our profession it is a little bit difficult, because we have a lot of new hotels which are opening and competition for qualified staff is high. It is difficult to find good people. Because of the booming economy, you don't have time to train the staff the way you would like to, and they are not as loyal as they used to be.... We very, very urgently need a hotel school in Romania to prepare and train more staff.”

Costina Gandac, General Manager of Golden Tulip Times,

Costina Gandac, General Manager of Golden Tulip Times, points out that the hotel management educational system in Romania is almost non existent. There are few initiatives but none of them can provide a full four year hotel management program. THR is the most renowned educational institution offering different types of classes from hotel entry level

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jobs up to middle management. There are some private and state owned universities that offer partly hotel management studies but none of them is focused on hotel management only. These studies are along with others focused on travel and international tourism. From this point of view, a young professional interested in developing a career in hotel management doesn’t have any other choice than leaving the country to get a proper education and then come back and perform. “Lecturers and professors should have a strong practical hotel experience by working as professionals in the industry, not only by reading books what they should teach the students about. Hospitality management requires traditional approach, but a modern vision. International markets can provide you with both, based on the maturity of the industry and also on hundreds of professionals that you are in contact with everyday. American market is a very complex market where you can encounter many situations that can help you to build up a professional behavior, guest orientated attitude, strong knowledge about the industry and last, but not least a vision of a leader. I had the chance to learn from the best and I’m happy to share this with my present management team. International background in all hotel operations has helped me to better understand various cultures by working with the staff from 17 countries and also behavioral patterns of different guests coming from all over the world. The exposure you can get working in abroad is well paid off when you return to Romania where you really feel you can make the difference. Without the experience gained abroad and without my extensive traveling before joining USA management program, I couldn’t perform my current job.” Costina Gandac says, adding that internship in all areas of the hotel is a must before making the final decision to enter or not the world of hospitality management. Hotel manager job is hard but exciting and rewarding at the same

time. Passion along with hard work will make the difference between a very good manger and an excellent one. As hospitality went global, a good hotel manager can find the job of his/her life anywhere in the world. Being a successful manager “requires years or work, dedication and blending your life with the hotel’s life. Like in many other fields, you continue learning everyday especially in hotel industry when everything happens or changes so fast. It is very important not to get into the daily routine, but continuously keep yourself updated with the newest trends in the industry. And choose to find them out from the leaders.”

Pierre Boissel, General Manager of Crowne Plaza

In an article on this subject published recently in the daily Wall-Street, Roxana Grosu quotes Adrian Petre - who used to work in a luxury hotel in New York, and currently owns the Carol Parc Hotel in Bucharest - as saying that Romanian schools are neither sufficient, nor qualified. “The educational system in this field is limited to the knowledge of some theories, models and rigid formulae. The successful management of a hotel, especially a large one, requires, in addition to relevant education and experience, a culture, a tradition, a vision and a lot of financial power,” Petre said. We are a hospitable nation, but hospitality must not be mistaken for the generally accepted standards that must be implemented and applied in order to meet the demands, exigencies and quality requirements of a variety of guests. As regards the tendency of large hotel chains to hire foreign managers, this is a common situation not only in Romania, but in all countries in Eastern Europe. The original tradition of customer service in most of these countries was brutally interrupted by communism for more than 50 years. Kurt Strohmayer, CEO with JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, believes that, under these circumstances, it is natural for an international group to turn to foreign top managers for a specific period of time. In the tourism industry, experience is more important than professional education and international experience of 10-15 years is extremely valuable, because working in various departments allows you to learn many things and gives you the opportu-

nity to advance your career. “Marriott has many employees who started as “apprentices” and advanced to management positions”. Moreover, large hotel chains train their managers depending on the development stage of the respective project. “When a new hotel of a large group is opened, highly experienced people, who have inaugurated other hotels and dealt with the characteristic problems that occur in such cases, are sent in for at least three years”, Strohmayer added. Coming from Israel, Daniel Ben-Yehuda has been in Romania for four years, managing Best Western Parc, a very successful and well functioning hotel, and was also in charge of the opening of Ramada Plaza. Now he is managing both hotels as a complex. He has been in this business for 18 years and started as an assistant to a restaurant manager. Since then, he was the Resident Manager of the Sheraton Herods Palace in Eilat, which is a complex of three hotels, and then the General Manager of the Sheraton Tahiti, in French Polynesia. Another example in this respect is the German Marten Schoenrock, who became the General Manager of InterContinental Hotel Bucharest starting January 21st. He replaced the British Jonathan Soper, who held this position for two years. At only 42 years old, Schoenrock has a vast background in the hospitality industry and a 15 years experience with the InterContinental Hotels Group, mainly in the Food&Beverage department. Previously he worked in Koln, Leipzig, Vienna, Chicago, Dallas, Tashkent and Berlin. Torbjörn Bodin, a Swede, coordinated the opening of the Radisson SAS hotel in Bucharest for two years, and was recently replaced by another foreign manager, the German national of Turkish origin Ali Yilmaz Yildirimlar. “Large hotel groups, like the Rezidor Hotel Group which includes the Radisson SAS hotel, are generally promoting people with high potential within the company, people with the skills and confidence required for management positions. There are special programs, developed within the companies, aiming to identify and develop potential talent with the possibility of becoming general managers”, Adrian Adam, sales and marketing manager with Radisson SAS Bucharest said.

Daniel Ben-Yehuda, General Manager of Ramada Plaza

However, Romanians, trained abroad and with experience on the international market or within international hotel chains in the country are beginning to be present on the global hotel market, not yet as General Managers, but in middle and top management positions, as Roxana Grosu points out in the same article. At least two people holding major positions have left JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel: one of them is Ioan Maties, former Food & Beverages Manager of the hotel, currently holding the same position in the Marriott hotel based in Frankfurt, being effectively the second in command after the General Manager, and the other one is Catalina Susan, former Assistant Controller in Bucharest, who went to the Warsaw Marriott, as Finance Director. “Some units or divisions of hotel chains abroad including the Ritz, Hilton, Relais&Chateau or Four Seasons brands have units which are managed by Romanians, a clear proof that in a proper, adequate and civilized environment, Romanians can reach high professional standards in any field, including a sector which lost its historic culture and tradition in Romania…”, added owner of the Carol Parc Hotel.

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cover story

AT THE TERRACE IN R

The early summer days, with the feeling of the vacations to come, have brought Bucharest residents out in force. They crowd the parks, “terasas” and restaurants. In Herastrau, Cismigiu, Carol or Tineretului Park you can see older couples nostalgically strolling to the sweet old times waltz rhythm, holding hands, with the memory of the beautiful years spent together, teenage couples passionately embracing, kissing in love for the first time, young families, at the beginning of their lives, carefully walking their children, showing them how beautiful the world is, groups of teenagers on roller-skates, bicycles or skateboards.

he setting? The fresh bright green of the season, the white scent of blooming flowers and trees, the amber brilliance of the late afternoon sun. People who came out on recent Sundays were welcomed into Cismigiu Park with an extra treat: The Flower Fair. As they entered the park they were welcomed by white tents in a semicircle, tents in which the curious flowers of indoor plants were flowering, inviting you into admiring them, if not take them home with you, or giving them to someone dear. You linger in front of them for a few minutes, then you say to yourself that it is time to take a few steps, looking for a bench: a great mission, all the sun-bathed benches are taken, and you can hardly even find a place on one bench hidden in the shade. As you take a seat, you are welcomed by two pleasant older ladies – friends since the 1st grade you would learn later – they smile and strike up a conversation. That is how you hear the story of „The Great Cismigiu“. It starts as a meadow with a lake teaming with fish, surrounded by reeds, filled by natural springs, coming from the base of the terrace on which we sit today. The lake, which was larger at the time, was mentioned in history, during the rule of Matei Basarab, as "Balta of Dura the merchant" (the lake of Balta). In October 1779, Alexandru Ipsilanti, the ruler of Tara Romaneasca, ordered the construction of a fountain, in the area of the garden we now see from Stirbei Voda Street; a drinking fountain was built there, to provide drinkable water. The house of Dumitru Suiulgi-basa was built nearby, he was the manager of the water supply and drinkable water works (“cismea”, in Romanian), and was known as ‘the great Cismigiu". This is the origin of the park's name, officially inaugurated in 1854. In 1830, general Pavel Kiseleff requested Baron Borroczyn to dry the pond and develop a public garden, which was completed under the reign of Gheorghe Bibescu, by landscape architect Carl Friederich Wilhelm Meyer, of Vienna. The pond was transformed into a beautiful lake, with all the required drainage systems allowing it to be easily emptied and cleaned. In the centre the architect installed an artesian fountain. The walkways were laid out, using each land bump to provide a pleasant overall view. Artificial caves, floral carpets, bridges were built and benches installed. Over 30.000 indigenous trees were planted, including some rare species. A parcel of land belonging to the gar-

Marcela GRATIANU •

Bucuresti what, where, when

den of the family Cretzulescu was bought, to extend the area of the park. The park was populated with exotic fish, swans and pelicans. Later, a mini-zoological garden was added: bears, wolves, foxes and beavers. In 1852 the fencing of the entire park was completed. Towards the end of the 19th century, one of the first newspaper kiosks was opened at the main entrance into Cismigiu, across from Town Hall. It was the first one in the Capital, and has been restored today. The story of this newspaper kiosk serves as a reminder of the love story of one of the ladies, but you do not have time to stay and listen, time has flown, and your girlfriend is waiting for you on the lake shore, at the Monte Carlo Restaurant. As you leave the quay terrace, you think that it would be pleasant to rent a boat or hydro-bicycle on the lake as evening falls. The chocolate-coloured rustic terrace provides a generous number of tables for clients: some remote, close to the specially decorated garden, others with lake view, letting you enjoy the view of the people floating on the lake, with some water fountain drops the wind blows onto your face whenever it wishes. You enjoy that in the summer, at the end of a hot day.

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Here you can try some typical Romanian dishes: “mititei”and sausages sizzle on the hot grill, the usual beer mugs or glasses of wine are raised in the air, toasting the health of, or blessing a table companion, the “sarmale” and “mamaliga” are steaming. For dessert, you can indulge in a portion of “clatite”, “papanasi” or ice-cream. The terrace is teaming with people, while others are lining up to get the next free boat, romantics want a boat, to carry them below the willow branches, silently witnessing their secrets; others, especially teenagers, prefer hydro-bicycles, to carry them around the fountain, bursting into laughter at the drops of water pearls. It seems that it was only yesterday that the lake was an immense skating ring, full of children, couples, tracing pirouettes, in swirling snow flakes and making Christmas wishes… You smile and move on. You reach Monte Carlo. You find your friend waiting at a table which allows a full relaxing lake view. You kiss her and enjoy the fact that the wedding season has not started yet…, otherwise you could be there only as wedding guests or as spouses, you never know... Bowed heads… You decisively order a portion of duck breast à la Monte Carlo and a portion of

N ROMANTIC CISMIGIU PARK Dobrogea Tochitura, accompanied by some house wine. You enjoy the meal and the special flavour of the rose wine, talking about this and that, looking at the ducks floating on the water, or at the people waiting on the terrace, categorically refusing a table inside, which you also would find appealing, talking about the live music matching the atmosphere, about children screaming, as they run to catch colourful balloons, about how the restaurant looked in the photographs of the two ladies you met on the shaded bench – the old Monte Carlo, bright, delicate and imposing at the same time, built for the first Exhibition of Bucharest, in 1886, based on designs by the architect Ion Mincu, and later restored, after being bombarded in the war. You leave the restaurant and stroll through the park, towards the band shell, where there is a small amusement park for children, with swings and slides. You stop at Buturuga, the legendary spot of Cismigiu, cheap and good refreshments for the ladies going out for a Sunday walk, carrying their umbrellas, accompanied by a servant to get lemonade with a triangular cookie. You walk, hand in hand, caressing with your eyes the stone faces – Negresa (The Black Lady), the spring of Sissi Stefanidi, The French Heroes’ Monument, the Maica Smara, the monument of George Panu… As you reach the part of Regina Elisabeta Boulevard, at the Roman Round, inaugurated in 1943, you remember, catching sight of the stone busts, of Mihai Eminescu, Alexandru Odobescu. Titu Maiorescu, I.L. Caragiale, George Coﬂbuc, St.O. Iosif, Ion Creanga, Al.

Vlahuta, Duiliu Zamfirescu, B.P. Hasdeu, N. Balcescu, V. Alecsandri on elevated pedestals … Some of the leading names of Romanian literature. You stop for a while at the Spring of Eminescu, at the old terrace with a library… Those were the times when you played truant from a class of mathematics, to come here, to relax... you would come to the Library, to a small bar, with a few book shelves, the bar preferred by students of the Conservatory. What you most enjoyed was the huge tree growing in the middle of the bar and breaking out of the roof. The books are no longer there but the tree still is. The furniture is different, it is no longer the basic rustic type of a beer bar. The windows which used to be taken out in the summertime have been replaced with double glazed windows with blinds. The library of my adolescence is now a large terrace. The music, which was never extraordinary, is now “chill-out” music at low note. The prices are no longer fit for students, but for Cismigiu; yet a bit lower than the area of the quay. You return for the boat ride. Now it may not be so crowded. You have already started walking leisurely on the lake, relaxed, wandering. However there is still a lingering thought. You can see that the residents of Bucharest love Cismigiu but why do the Viennese love it as well, after all these years? The landscape architect from Vienna, Carl Friederich Wilhelm Meyer, the one who transformed a pond into a jewel, thought that his time in Bucharest will be short. But many go out for wool and come home shorn: charmed by the beauty of

Bucharest, and by the society that welcomed him warmly, attracted by the new contracts the ruler offered, he postponed his departure. The young architect was often seen in the company of Bucharest nobility. He was greeted with affection by families like Otetelesanu and Cantacuzino. In the salons he attended, he met Elena Lazarescu, the beautiful daughter of cavalry commander Manolache Lazarescu, and he fell in love. The girl’s parents approved. In 1852, the death of his sister, only 17 years of age, struck him with an immense grief. Only two weeks later, he died at the age of 38. He was buried in the cemetery of the Evangelic Church. Later his remains were moved close to the Church Mavrogheni, near the gardens of Cismigiu, which was so dear to him. Similar to Meyer, another man from Vienna, Ludwig Angerer, fell in love with Bucharest, remaining to live here. Angerer was one of the first photographers of Bucharest, and the best photographer of Vienna. In 1860 he received the title of Provider to the Imperial Court. Cismigiu was one of his favourite subjects. This is where the tradition of park photographers originated. Angerer photographed lovers on alleys, in studied poses, close to the lake or lying on a bench, the young lovers of that period, the great grand-fathers of the teenagers of day, who are photographed with mobile phones or digital devices... Other times, but the same frame and the same passion of love... Close to midnight the promenade ends, you descend and instinctively kiss smiling to each other, nostalgically looking into Angerer’s black eye…

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Bucuresti what, where, when

fashion

Talking clothes! I was working as a beauty editor for EXCES magazine in ’97 when I met one of the few Romanians who could say, at that time, that he was involved in the “core of the international fashion world”. His name was Petre Buzoianu and he was a catwalk photographer in New York. We met every day for months in order to make the magazine work. It was, in a certain sense, our connection to ‘high society’. Petre passed away three years ago, but he did more for Romanian fashion than the entire bunch of professionals from the fashion business today. Levintza, Perseil, Crisbasan, Buta, Oianu, Galatescu and people who know exactly what I am talking about still remember him. But returning to Petre… “The School” taught by Petre in 1997 was pigmented with several witty phrases, but one of his “catchphrases” is burnt in my memory and I have been using it as my professional motto for a long time now: "Clothes must speak for yourself when you say nothing".

“WORD-BEARING” CLOTHES In addition to what Petre, books, people who are wiser than I, the Internet or experience have taught me, the Faculty of Communication and Public Relations has indoctrinated me with the following three theorems: 1.You will not have a second chance to make a first impression 2.Only 7% of communication is accomplished through words, the remaining 93% is a speechless communication (para-verbal - tone, intonation, voice inflections – and non-verbal gestures, mimics, posture, exterior aspect) 3.Image consultants are “story creators”. All these wise affirmations are actually saying the same thing: the way we look/dress only tells the world what we decide we want/should say... to put it bluntly, clothes are officially charged with a “word-bearing” quality! But what if I told you that, from my experience, I have observed that: 1.a girl in love does not wear brown … 2.a less communicative, introverted and timid girl does not buy a mini skirt, even if it looks very well, nor red or flower print clothes and she does not wear colorful accessories, 3.a strong, awe-inspiring woman, the backbone of the family, the one who makes the marriage work, could not imagine wearing feminine dresses that flatter her nor even ballet shoes. 4.girls who want “to get married” soon become more interested in style and refined or feminine clothes and more sexy/micromini/stretched/transparent clothes etc. 5.or that men who want to impress a superior never choose colorful ties nor shirts with cufflinks? Why do people usually make these choices? Because they use clothes to say “something” to the world: the clothes of a love struck girl say that "she isn’t in the right mood to wear brown", the shy girl’s clothes "I don't want to attract attention and people’s interest scares me”, those of the manly-woman say that comfortable, “work and fight clothes” are practical, durable, efficient and useful, which is ulti-

Bucuresti what, where, when

Cristina Turnagiu-Dragna, Image Consultant Guest Editor

mately what she thinks of herself, the clothes of the girls who want to pick guys up say that their wearers are "young, free and available, therefore easy to conquer" and those of the above mentioned men say “there, I know my place, I am responsible, so we can do business together”.

CLOTHES WITH CLEAR MESSAGES It is easy to create a certain image with the help of clothes. They can tell a story about you on a certain day, in a certain context, to a certain individual, with a certain level of knowledge, whether they are willing or unwilling to "listen ". Whether he understands what your clothes want to say about you or not, is however a problem of “getting the message through”! So, the same clothes do not say the same thing to all people? NO! What does a red dress say? Well, the first question would be to whom? Let’s say only women… Ok. Then we must add some contextual details: in what context ... on the street, worn by a 35-year old woman, chestnut long hair, a classical model, with reasonable cleav-

age, sleeveless and following the body line, not stretched nor short, down to the knees. It is summer, around 4 o'clock in the afternoon and the woman walks, without rushing but not strolling, as she’s crossing the street on the pedestrian crossing at Piata Romana. A lady involved in the fashion industry would say to you: the lady is oblivious of trends, she is not interested if red is in fashion or not, maybe she was advised that red suits her best. The line of the dress is not that trendy either but it might highlight her bosom or her shoulders, which is good. She will add that the material of the dress is important, that she has to know if it has a good cut or not and if you know what label it is. All these details say a great deal about this woman: if she appreciates quality, comfort, whether she is a fashionista or not etc… if she has style or not, she does not know, she must see her.

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A female psychologist might ask you, at the beginning, what type of dress it is, in what context, what can you tell her about the woman, and what expectations you have from her. She would not dare make personal comments at first sight, but she would detail the psychological typology of the color red: it is warm, provoking, exciting, it urges you to take action, it has emotional resonance and it USUALLY makes you think, and she stresses that USUALLY and not ALWAYS, it is the attribute of an active woman, eccentric, sometimes offensively-aggressive, independent, with dominating tendencies, who expresses sensuality, life, force, power and action. A female journalist would ask you if the woman is a public figure, if she is single, if she has said anything, or if she has done something special during this time, if you know where she came from, if she knows where she might be going, and other direct questions about the woman and her actions, being less interested in her appearance. If you insist, she will tell you what she thinks about an anonymous person who achieved nothing important, in an irrelevant context... that it might be a woman who wants to attract attention. If she strides, she is confident and she is also beautiful and dangerous and might even be sexy. If she would go to an event she would certainly attract the photographers’ flashbulbs and the envy of other women, who are less confident regarding their beauty and attractiveness. A female human resource manager would tell you that it is a forbidden color to wear at employment interviews, that you must be very confident if you’re going to wear it to a business meeting, and that, if you know you’re on top of things, a red dress is the perfect weapon in a commercial or emotional negotiation. She would ask you what her job is and if she can meet her because a woman in a red dress must have something interesting to say, to do or to get and that people with a strong personality are in high demand for leadership positions. So, can you provide her telephone number? A housewife would tell you that she is a well-dressed, elegant woman who is probably going on a date with her lover at a close-by event, that she is probably unmarried and has no children, otherwise she would not have time to wander around in the middle of the day, on the avenue, in her red dress, to attract men’s looks. But what is the actual reason why the woman has chosen the red dress? Well… it was the only ironed dress in her closet… So my article might have been a boring mumbo-jumbo about clothes? Well, that depends on who has read it… and if you have reached this stage it seems that your clothes are your closest friends… they can speak about you when you are not saying anything!

dining

Mushrooms – Food for a Feast Elena RADUCU •

Mushrooms are one of the main ingredients of traditional Romanian cuisine, an ever-living subject, and most Romanians are big fans of mushroom dishes, which are very tasty, filling and healthy. "We are an eclectic people”, wrote Cezar Petrescu, one of our great writers. "It is one thing to go to war against the Hungarians, the Russians, the Poles or the Turks, and another to adopt, without resistance, some of their worthwhile dishes: like Hungarian paprika stew, Serbian hotchpotch, Polish butter and sour cream dishes, Borsch, Russian caviar and marinated foods, Turkish moussaka, which conquered our palates without a fight”. Turkish influences can also be found in the fasting during Lent pilaff (rice with mushrooms and vegetables), pork skewers and meat balls (originating in the Turkish “kofta”). Italians might brag about their polenta as a gastronomic symbol, but the flavor of mamaliga basted with sweet, freshly milked milk can only be experienced here on our pastoral lands. And it was the pastoral areas of Romania which gave birth to the divine mixture of mamaliga, cow cheese, sour cream and fried egg. But the case of sarmale is quite different from one region to another! Their wrapping in pickled cabbage leaves and their association with tongue prickling pepper is particular to the Romanian cuisine. In the summer, when we replace the sauerkraut with dock and cabbage leaves pickled in sour borsch, or on fasting days, when we fill them with rice or mushrooms, could we speak of anything other but of vernacular Romanian tradition? Recognizing edible mushrooms can be quite difficult and involves taking into account their botanical features. Their most common shape is the umbrella, but before reaching maturity, they take various shapes, such as the egg shape, the bludgeon and the bell. Mushrooms can also by identified by their foot, which may be placed centrally (inside the cap), eccentrically or laterally (at the edge of the cap). In order to tell the difference between edible and non-edible mushrooms, you must also take into consideration the growing location, the color, the change of color, the odor, the taste, the richness and the age. We can say that, generally, mushrooms which smell and taste like flour, chestnuts, hazel nuts or anise are edible. Non-edible mushrooms have toxic elements at any age, while many edible mushrooms are good while they are young, and become indigestible and even toxic as they grow old. When buying mushrooms pick the full and dry ones; if unpacked, you can keep them in the fridge for no more than three days. It is preferable to wipe them with a moist kitchen towel, and do not peel. If washed, they absorb a lot of water and lose part of their flavor. When cooking a sauce, add white wine or sour cream before their juice evaporates and boil the mixture for two minutes. If defrosted, mushrooms become very sloppy and that is why it is recommended to use them for soups, sauces and sauce dishes. In order to prevent them from becoming sloppy, it would be better to fry and then freeze them.

Many wild mushrooms are edible. The Hawk's Wing species is a sweet, nut-tasting boletus growing in forests. It is delicious if sautéed in butter and used for pasta sauces and risotto. They may also be dried, in which case before using, the boleti must be soaked for 20 minutes. You can also use the water they were soaked in for cooking, as it bears their flavor. The Chanterelles or the Russulas are frequently found in our forests. They are ideal for dishes cooked with butter or served simply with scrambled eggs. As they are fragile, it is recommended to tear them by hand and not slice them with a knife. White mushrooms and brown mushrooms – the Sac Fungus, the Shaggy Mane, the Porcino, the Common Rustgill and the Pepper Mushrooms - are sliced and used for salads or added to cooked dishes at the end. Oyster Mushroom are used especially for sauce dishes. As they are full bodied they can also be fried. They can be found fresh, in supermarkets.

The Morel, the Edible Boletus, the Fleecy Milk-cap, the Caesar’s Mushroom, the Honey Mushroom and the Orange Peel Fungus of the brown, reddish, red or red-orange varieties are a lot tastier than white mushrooms, and are recommended for sauces and sautés. Wide-caped mushrooms are ideal for grilling, if unsliced and garnished with spicy butter and dry bread crumbs. The Golden Chanterelles grow in almost all Romanian beech and birch forests and have a yellow-orange cap, with irregular-crimpy edges. The delicious Honey Mushrooms can be found both in forests and near fruit trees; they have the best taste if sautéed or may be used in soups, but also in eggplant appetizers or pickled in vinegar. Housewives often cure them in salt, in order to use them during the winter to add them to several dishes, such as stew. Among the traditional Romanian dishes there is also the poiana tenderloin, meat with

mushrooms, ham with cayenne and tomato juice, while in Moldavia we might taste typical grandma’s sarmale – small, elegant, with light meat or with rice and mushrooms. Here is a recipe, if you want to enjoy some sarmale with rice and mushrooms, which are very popular in Romania. Start by blanching a sweet cabbage in salted boiling water; the leaves will fall off. Braise two-three chopped onions in oil; add three cups of washed rice, 250 g of chopped mushrooms and pot herb, two spoonfuls of tomato pasta blended with a little water, salt and pepper to taste. Fill the cabbage leaves with the above mentioned mixture and place them in a pot greased with oil and coated with a layer of chopped cabbage. Pour ? l of borsch and boil for 30 minutes. Then add two peeled tomatoes cut into quarters and a little savory and then bake it until it has no more juice. The Romanian farced mushrooms can be cooked easily and are a delicious appetizer. Peel 500 g of mushrooms, save the caps, chop the feet, add a spoonful of red grated onion and stew them in one spoonful of oil until there is no more juice. Sprinkle dry bread crumbles over them, baste with a little milk and boil until this mixture boils down. Add green spices, dill and parsley, salt, pepper and a few drops of lemon juice. When lukewarm, add an egg. The heat proof charger is greased with oil, the mushrooms caps are placed in it, and each cap will hold a mixture of stuffing. Then they are sprinkled with wine and baked. Put a dab of sour cream on them before serving. The mushroom blanquette (mushrooms cooked in white sauce) is a traditional, tasty and nourishing dish, which can save you in many situations. A well-cooked mushroom blanquette can also please those who are not mushroom fans, as the special white sauce highlights the flavor of the mushrooms. That is why, when cooking this dish, we must pay a lot of attention to the mixture of flour, sour cream, mushroom juice so that the sauce is not too rich or too white. After peeling and washing the mushrooms (? kg) boil them for 30 minutes and then slice them. Chop an onion and stew it in oil, stirring continuously. When the onion turns gold, add salt and remove it from the fire; mix two spoonfuls of flour in a little cold water, so that it remains doughy. Mushrooms are added over the onion and the mixture is boiled again. Boil gently until the mushrooms become desiccated and there is no water left. Add 100 ml of sour cream and, after two minutes, the two spoonfuls of flour; stir for another two minutes and remove from the fire. Add salt and pepper to taste, and 50 g of butter. Chop the dill and the parsley and add over the mushroom blanquette for decoration, and then serve as hot as possible, so that the sauce does not become dusty-tasting I hope to have given you some quick and delicious ideas of mushroom dishes for a traditional meal. Blend them with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfect the taste of the cooked dishes.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

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 (page 22). For subway map see also page 22. ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

TRANSLATORS

VISAS

Police - Like all cities, Bucharest too has dangerous

Translingua: 306, Calea Mosilor, Bl. 56A, Ap. 11

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;

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

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.

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 021-2431333, 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 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),

Diamondo Interpreters & Translators: Ph.: 021-230-95-17; Fax: 021-231-99-20. 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

POST OFFICES 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.

The National Bank of Romania

AIRPORTS Henri Coanda International Airport: – for international 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 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 tenfare pass, LEI 4,00 for one-day pass, LEI 23,00 - for a monthly passcard.

PRIVATE CLINICS & EMERGENCY HOSPITALS Biomedica International: 42 Eminescu St., Ph. 021-230-8001

Emergency Clinic Hospital: 8, Calea Floreasca, Ph. 021-317-0171; 021-317-0121

Bucuresti what, where, when

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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. AMBASADOR 6 D : 8-10, Magheru Blvd. ph: +40-21-315-9080; fax:+40-21-312-3595

ANGELO AIRPORTHOTEL BUCHAREST : 283, Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. ph: +40-21-203-6500; fax: +40-21-203-6530 ARMONIA 7 E : 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. RAMADA - PARC 2 A : 3-5 Poligrafiei Blvd. ph: +40-21-549-2000; fax: +40-21-549-2330 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 6 D : 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 1 B : 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 7 F : 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 7 F : 33A, Soseaua Stefan cel Mare. ph.: +40-21-211-0070 DUKE HHH 6 D : 33, Dacia Blvd, ph: +40-21-317-4186/87/88; fax: +40-21-317-4189.

EURO HOTELS INTERNATIONAL

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 + 2 D : 27, Av. Alex Serbanescu St., ph: +40-21-232-6856, +40-21-232-6857. fax: +40-21-232-6527. www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

GOLDEN TULIP BUCHAREST

166, Calea Victoriei. ph: +40-21-212-5558; fax: +40-21-212-5121 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. 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 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 INTER-CONTINENTAL 7 D : 4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., ph: +40-21-310-2020; fax: +40-21-312-0486.

IRISA

24, Banu Manta Blvd., ph: +40-21-223-4965/66/67; fax: +40-21-223-4969.

JW MARRIOTT BUCHAREST GRAND HOTEL 8 B : 90, Calea 13 Septembrie, ph: +40-21-403-1012; fax: +40-21-403-1001. LEV OR 6 C : 25, Occidentului St., ph: +40-21-210-1274; fax: +40-21-319-0910. MARSHAL 7 E : 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

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., 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 2 B : 10, Piata Montreal, ph: +40-21-318-3000; fax +40-21-316-2550 RADISSON SAS 6 D : 63-81, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-311-9000; fax: +40-21-313-9000 RAMADA BUCHAREST NORTH 2 C : 44A, Daniel Danielopolu St., ph: +40-21-233-5000; fax: +40-21-233-5001; RAMADA MAJESTIC BUCHAREST 7 D : 38-40, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-310-2715, +40-21-312-1967; fax: +40-21-310-2799 RAMADA PLAZA BUCHAREST 2 B : 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd., ph: +40-21-549-3000; fax: +40-21-549-3001

Bucuresti what, where, when

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RAZVAN

7F : 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 SIQUA 7C : 59A, Calea Plevnei, ph: +40-21-319-5160; 319-5161; fax: +40-21-319-5162 STARLIGHT SUITE HOTELS 5 D : 89-97, Grigore Alexandrescu St., ph/fax: +40-21-211-3413 / 14 TEMPO 7E : 19, Armand Calinescu St., ph: +40-21-310-1216; fax: +40-21-310-1241 TRIANON 9, Grigore Cobalcescu St., ph: +40-21-311-4927; fax: +40-21-316-2281 TULIP INN Bucharest City 8 F : 3A, Nerva Traian St. ph: +40-21-200-6270; fax: +40-21-200-6273 VENEZIA 7 C : 2, Pompiliu Eliade St., ph: +40-21-310-6878; fax: +40-21-310-6873 VICTORIA : 16, St. Gabriela Szabo St., ph: +40-21-434-3075.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

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.

140 Years of Philharmonics, 120 Years of Athenaeum

www.fge.org.ro

The Romanian Athenaeum: is a concert hall 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)

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: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., every day, except Monday

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.

The Old Royal Court: during the early Middle

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)

Bucuresti what, where, when

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

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Ages, Bucharest became a commercial center; important enough to enable the XIV century princes to build the Princely Court â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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.

www.bucharesttours.ro

JUNE 2009

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Bucharest – Always Something New, Always Something to See

Elena RADUCU •

A night in Bucharest is like a beautiful woman whom you meet the first time, you can see her, you can admire her and spend time with her, and after a whole evening you will never forget the color of her eyes… with Bucharest it is the color of the feelings that the heart of this city might inspire in you. The beauty of this city is that it is still growing and, even if all around the world there is a financial crisis, here we have new bars and restaurants opening almost every month. Time will decide who survives and if we can continue this trend of growth for 2009. Control Club is a new “hot spot”, opened just a few months ago, but already well-known by the “party guys” who never sleep. You will find it in the Victoria Passage, on Academiei Street No. 19, where the club’s motto is “Keep Control and rock on”. The idea is to lose control,

at the end, when the sun is rising…The music is indie ( a new wave that is now strong in Romania – we keep pace with international trend), combined with evergreen alternative songs (The Cure, The Smiths, Nick Cave, The Doors, Nirvana etc…). The mixture of these styles is great and you won’t have time to see where the time has gone. The average age of the clubbers is 25-35, but you can see also 18 year old school boys and girls who come for a night away from home, as well as men over 40 looking for some excitement. This is exactly the reason why this place is so interesting. I spent New Year's Eve there and I can tell you that, even if I didn’t expect that, it was one of the best parties in my life for me and my friends (we were around 30 people). All dressed up, we had a big table right near the bar and enjoyed the very good atmosphere. page IV

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Bucuresti what, where, when

Unirii Square

Copenhagen, Geneva or Bucharest 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…

An Expat's Point of View The Parliament

… 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

Bucuresti what, where, when

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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. 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 busi-

ness, 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, number 300, because of the precarious security level. www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

III

page I

I met a lot of foreigners – from Australia, Switzerland, Netherlands, Germany, Great Britain; they fit fine in the ambiance, although most of them were in Bucharest for the first time. I could distinguish them from the locals by the style of their clothes and by their attitude, people from abroad are more relaxed about their style and their behavior. The reason why they chose this country and this city to ring in 2009 was that “we heard that in Bucharest you can have a lot of fun and it is not as expensive as other capitals in the EU”; this is true, except perhaps the hotels, which are more expensive and sometimes with poorer facilities than abroad. All of them chose the Control Club because it is in the center of town, near the major hotels. On New Year's Eve the entrance was only 20 RON and everybody could join the party – not like in some of the other clubs, which were rented, reserved for private parties and closed to other customers. The prices are really low for this area – beers starts from 6 RON, cocktails like Campari Orange and Cuba Libre from 10 RON, the entrance on a normal night is 10 RON.

Bucuresti what, where, when

Nearby, there is another well know club with live music – Coyote Ugly, also in theVictoria Passage. Opened after the movie with the same name was shown, in 2000, this club is a place where you can dance and sing rock’n’roll, soft rock, blues and country. Live bands perform every weekend night, starting Friday evening. With a capacity of 400 people, Coyote Ugly is the place where you can celebrate your anniversary and where you can also sit and relax. If you want to go out and have a conversation with your friends, don’t choose this club because the music is a bit too loud and you must yell…so go only if you want to dance and listen to the music. The waitresses are dressed like cowboy girls, with jeans – usually short, and nice hats, but unfortunately, they don’t dance on top of the bar (like in the movie Coyote Ugly). They are funny, but not so crazy and wild as in the movie – I really suggest you go to see the movie… If one evening you want another style of music and atmosphere than rock, you can try something colorful… I can recommend my choice… spend a night at the Malibu Club, in

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Piata Amzei. The disco is in the basement of a well-known theater for kids, “Teatrul Ion Creanga”, which is not related with the club. The music is only reggaetton and hip hop… if you like this style, it's ok.... if not, you will feel like I felt - an outsider who looks around to see the phenomenon; you will hear the hits from the ’80 when this trend was very popular….you can see a lot of people dancing and having fun... you will get the feeling that this is their home and you are just a guest. In every corner the tables are occupied by people who dance interestingly, with special movements, adapted to this kind of rhythm. Despite this, you won’t feel like a stranger because the atmosphere here is cozy and warm. I think there is a bit too much smoke, but this will change now, with the new regulations of 2009. The prices are affordable, the entrance is 10 Ron, a beer is 6 Ron…The average age is 20-26 for Romanians and up to 40 for foreigners.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

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Bucuresti what, where, when

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Medico Clinique: 9, Visarion St.,

DRIVING IN ROMANIA

Ph. 021-650-7060, 021-315-5426 /27 www.medico.ro Medicover Medical: Centre96, Calea Plevnei, Ph. 021-310-4410

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.

Ophthalmology Emergency Clinic Hospital: 1, Piata Lahovari, Ph. 021-319-2753 Unirea Medical Center: • 57, Unirii Blvd, Ph. 021-327-1188 ; • 2, Staicovici St, Opera Center. Ph 021-412-0110 • 12, G Enescu St, Ph. 021-316-5876/77/78

NON-STOP PHARMACIES 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 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 Crowne Plaza Hotel:1, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-224-0034; Open: daily 6:30 - 23:00 Massage: Mon-Fri 17:00 - 21:00 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 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 Hotel: 4, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-310-202; Open: Mon-Sat 6:00 - 20:00 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

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

SHOW BIZ 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 International 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

OPERA & CONCERTS

CONSTANTA COUNTY

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

13, Republicii St. - Hotel Europa (Eforie Nord) Ph.: 0241--702-840 / 841; Fax: 0241-741-720 Open: Mon - Sat: 09:00 - 18:00. Sun: 09:00 - 15:00 e-mail: sales@anaspa.ro; www.anahotels.ro

Sala Radio (Romanian Radio Society):

PRAHOVA COUNTY Pro Estetica Sana Bali Spa: 349, Stadionului St.,

Teatrul National de Opereta “Ion Dacian”:

Cornu; Ph./fax: 0244-367-053. Open: 8:00 - 22:00

George Enescu Philharmonic: 6 D 1-3, Franklin St. Ph: 021-315-0024, Box Office: 021-315-6875

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 7D

2, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-313-6348.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

MUSEUMS

CINEMAS

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. Multilingual guides are typically available on request at no charge. Most museums are closed on Mondays.

National Museum of Art of Romania:

49-53, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-314 81 19; 021-313 30 30. Visiting hours: Wednesday-Sunday 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 9:00 – 17:00 Monday closed. 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 techniques and utensils (water and windmills, oil presses, etc) from all of the country’s provinces. Folkloric art collections and souvenirs. Art Collections Museum: 6 D 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 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

Antipa Museum of Natural History:

Bucuresti what, where, when

www.bucurestiwww.ro

Ph.: 021-313-0483 • Sala Union. 21, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-9289 Cityplex: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-1334 Corso: City Mall, 3rd floor; 2, Soseaua Oltenitei. 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 Glendale Studio: 9, Cotroceni Ave. Ph.: 021-316-3286 Hollywood Multiplex: Bucuresti Mall. 55-59, Calea Vitan; Ph.: 021-327-7020 / 22 Movieplex Cinema: Plaza Romania. 26, Timisoara Blvd.; Ph.: 021-407-8300 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

CULTURAL INSTITUTES 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.

1, Kiselef Road. Ph.021-312-8826. Open daily 10:00–17:00; closed Monday and Tuesday. This is one of the first natural history museums in the world. There are 30,000 items including the unique and controversial skeletons of Deinotherium Gigantissimus, 15 foot tall. National Cotroceni Museum: 7 A 1, Geniului Blvd. Ph. 021-430-4485. Open daily 9:30–16:30 ; 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: 6 D 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: 5 D 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.

CinemaPro: 3, Ion Ghica St. Ph.: 031-824-1360 Cinemateca: • Sala Eforie. 2, Eforie St.

British Council 6 D : 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 : 22, Henri Coanda 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) 7 E : 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

• INT’L. ORGANIZATIONS • LOCAL INSTITUTIONS • BUSINESS CONNECTIONS • AIRLINES • TRAINS • EMBASSIES • BANKS

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS United Nations Information Centre: UN House, 48A, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-78-77; Fax: 021-201-78-80. www.un.ro UNICEF: 48A, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-78-72; Fax: 021-231-52-55. www.unicef.ro World Bank: 2-4, Armand Calinescu St. Ph.: 021-201-03-11 International Monetary Fund: 7, Halelor St., 2nd floor (Unirii Sq.) Ph.: 021-311-58-33; 031-805-70-40 Fax: 021-318-14-10. www.fmi.ro European Bank for Reconstruction EBRD: 8, Orlando St. Ph.: 021-202-71-00; Fax: 021-202-71-10. www.ebrd.com Delegation of the European Union: 18, Jules Michelet St. Ph.: 021-203-54-00; Fax: 021-212-88-08. www.infoeuropa.ro

LOCAL INSTITUTIONS Presidency of Romania: 1-3, Geniului St., Palatul Cotroceni; Ph.: 021-410-05-81; Fax: 021-410-38-58 . www.presidency.ro Chamber of Deputies: Palace of Parliament, 2-4, Izvor St; Ph.: 021-316-03-00; Fax: 021-316-03-34 021-414-11-11. www.cdep.ro Senate of Romania: Palace of Parliament, 1-3, Calea 13 Septembrie; Ph.: 021-402-11-11; Fax: 021-316-03-34; www.senat.ro Government of Romania: 1, Victoriei Sq. Ph.: 021-314-34-00; 021-313-15-64. www.gov.ro

Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development: 24, Carol I Blvd. Ph.: 021-307-85-00. www.mapam.ro

Ministry of Communication and Information Technology: 14, Libertatii Blvd. Ph./Fax: 021-311-41-21; www.mcti.ro

Ministry of Economy & Finance: 152, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-202-51-06; Fax: 021-202-5108. www.mfinante.ro Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 31, Aleea Alexandru Ph.: 021-319-21-08; 021-319-21-25; Fax: 021-319-68-62. www.mae.ro Ministry of Public Finance: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-202-52-34; Fax: 021-202-52-39. www.minind.ro Ministry of Justice: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-314-44-00. www.just.ro

Ministry of Labor, Family and Equal Opportunities: 2-4, Dem I. Dobrescu St. Ph.: 021-313-62-67; www.mmuncii.ro

Ministry of Defense: 3-5, Izvor St. Ph.: 021-402-34-00; Fax: 021-319-56-98. www.mapn.ro Ministry of Transport: 38, Dinicu Golescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-319-61-24; Fax: 021-313-88-69. www.mt.ro

Ministry of Interior Affairs and Administrative Reform: 1A, Revolutiei Sq. Ph.: 021-303-70-80; 021-314-10-50. www.mira.gov.ro

Ministry of Education, Research and Youth: 28-30, G-ral Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-405-6200. ww.w.edu.ro

Ministry of Small and Medium-Sized Companies, Trade, Tourism & Liberal Professions:

Deutsch - Rumänische Industrie und Handelskammer Bukarest: 35, Clucerului St., 2rd floor

11, Poterasi St. Ph.: 021-336-1451; Fax: 021-336-18-43. www.mimmc.ro Ministry of Public Health: 1-3, Cristian Popisteanu Entr. Ph.: 021-307-25-00; 021-307-26-75. www.ms.ro

Ph.: 021-223-15-31; Fax: 021-223-15-38. www.ahkrumaenien.ro

Ministry of Development, Public Works & Housing: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-211-14-09. www.mie.ro

Ministry of Environment & Sustainable Development: 12, Libertatii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-02-15; 021-316-38-74. www.mmediu.ro Ministry of Culture & Cults: 30, Kiseleff Ave. Ph./Fax: 021-224-2510. www.cultura.ro

ANAT -National Association of Travel Agencies In Romania: 16, Splaiul Unirii. Ph.: 021-312-68-43; 021-312-08-02. Fax: 021-312-19-08. www.anat.ro The Prefect's Office of Bucharest: 47, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-312-65-25; 9866 www. prefecturabucuresti.ro Bucharest City Hall: 24, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-305-55-00. www.pmb.ro Sector 1: 7-9, Banu Manta Blvd. Ph.: 021-319-10-13 to 17. Fax: 021-319-10-06; www.primariasector1.ro Sector 2: 11-13, Chiristigilor St. Ph.: 021-209-6000. Fax: 021-209-62-82. www.ps2.ro Sector 3: 2-4, Parfumului St. Ph.: 021-318-03-23 to 29. www.sector3primarie.ro Sector 4: 6-16, George Cosbuc Blvd. Ph.: 021-335-9230. www.ps4.ro Sector 5: 29-31, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-46-80; Fax: 021-311-04-65 Sector 6: 147-149, Calea Plevnei; Ph.: 021-318-0148. Fax: 021-318-01-52. www.primarie6.ro

Japan External Trade Organization: IBC Modern - 34-36, Carol Blvd. 5th floor; Ph.:021-310-68-01/02. www.jetro.go.jp Foreign Investors Council: 11-13, Kiseleff Ave., ING Building, Ph.: 021-222-19-31; Fax:021-222-19-32. www.fic.ro French T.I.C.C. in Romania: 4, Vasile Conta St. Ph.: 021-311-09-13; Fax: 031-8161-580. www.ccifer.ro Romania Russia T.I.C.C.: 27-29, George Enescu St. Ph/Fax: 021-311-09-13 Romania Turkey T.I.C.C.: 1, Libertatii Blvd, Ph.: 021-336-97-22 Romania China T.I.C.C.: 28, Ion Cimpineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-51-14; 0744-518-344; Fax: 021-312-13-71. Source: Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry Union

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 Corstjens Bucharest: 7-9, Intrarea Gherghitei Ph.: 021-240-37-02; Fax: 021-240-37-03. www.corstjens.com 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 The American Chamber of Commerce: Union International Center; 11, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-312-48-34; Fax: 021-312-48-51. www.amcham.ro www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

NATIONAL AGENCIES

Salans-Moore, Vartires & Associates SCA: 28-C,

T.I.C.C. of Romania: 2, Octavian Goga Blvd.,

General C. Budisteanu St. Ph.: 021-312-49-50; Fax: 021-312-49-51. www.salans.com

Ph.: 021-319-01-14 / 18. www.ccir.ro

National Trade Registery Office: 74A, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-08-04; Fax: 021-316-08-03. www.onrc.ro Bucharest Office of Trade Registery: 1, Sectorului Entr. Ph.: 021-316-08-20; 021-316-08-24. www.onrc.ro Romanian Foreign Trade Center: 17, Appolodor St. Ph.: 021-318-50-50; Fax: 021-311-14-91. www.traderom.ro Romanian Agency for Foreign Investments: 22, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-233-9103.

LAWYERS Kinstellar: 8, Nicolae Iorga St. Ph.: 021-307-15-00; Fax: 021-307-15-55.

Mazars - Duncea, Stefanescu & Asociatii SCA: 31B, Economu Cezarescu St. Ph.: 031-229-26-00; Fax: 031-229-26-01. www.mazars.ro

Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen: Bucharest Business Park, Entr.A, 4th floor1A, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti. Ph.: 021-201-1200; Fax: 021-201-1210. www.nndkp.com Pachiu & Associates: 4-10, Muntii Tatra St., 5th floor. Ph: 021-312-10-08; Fax: 021-312-10-09. www.pachiu.com

Rubin Meyer Doru & Trandafir affiliated with Herzfeld&Rubin, P.C.: 7, Putu cu Plopi St. Ph.: 021-311-14-60; Fax: 021-311-14-65. www.hr.ro

Vasile Deleanu Attorneys at Law Member of Warwick Legal Network: 2, Maresal Josef Pilsudski Entrance. Ph.: 021-201-66-84; Fax: 021-201-66-85. www.deleanu.ro

Wood Oltenasu & Associates SCPA: 11-13, Kiseleff Ave. Ph: 021-222-88-88; Fax: 021-223-44-44

COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Cosmote: 9-9A, Dimitrie Pompei Blvd., Building 19, Southern Wing, 1st floor; Ph.: 021-404-12-34; 0766-12-12-34; Fax: 021-413-75-30. www.cosmote.ro Orange Romania S.A.: 51-53, Lascar Catargiu Blvd., Europe House. Ph.: 021-203-30-30; 021-203-33-33; Fax: 2021-03-35-99. www.orange.ro

Vodafone Romania: 4A, Vasile Milea Blvd.

RCS &RDS: 73-75, Dr. N. Staicovici St.

SCHOOLS

Ph.: 031-400-44-40; Fax: 031-400-44-41. 031-400-60-60 for outside Bucharest Romtelecom: 1B, Garlei St. Ph.: 930; Fax: 925. www.romtelecom.ro Telemobil (Zapp): 11-15, Tipografilor St., Building B3-B4, 5th floor; Ph.: 021-402-44-44; Fax: 021-402-32-56. www.zapp.ro UPC Romania: 62D, Soseaua Nordului; Ph.: 9399; 031-100-04-00. www.upc.ro

The following English-speaking schools are located in Bucharest:

Ph.: 021-302-22-22; Fax: 021-302-14-13. www.vodafone.ro

International British School: 21-23, Agricultori St. Ph. 021-252-37-04,

International Nursery School: 119, Sos. Nordului. Ph. 021-232-69-03,

Mark Twain International School: 25B, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.0724-000-900; 021-267-89-12,

Lauder Reut Kindergartden: 15, Barsch Iuliu St. American International School: 196, Soseaua Pipera-Tunari. Ph.: 021-204-43-00

International School of Bucharest: 428, Mihai Bravu St. Ph. 021-327-54-32.

MAIL SERVICES Cargus: 1, Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph.: 9330; Fax: 021-351-02-00.

DHL International Romania: 85-87, Emanoil Porumbaru St. Ph.: 021-222-17-77; Fax: 021-222-17-66.

Federal Express Romania: 13, Fermei St., Otopeni Ph.: 021-201-48-22; Fax: 021-201-48-27.

Pegasus/Airborne Express: 13, Soseaua Iancului. Ph.: 021-250-93-60; Fax: 021-256-95-04.

Posta Rapida/Express Mail: 140, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-200-75-00.

TNT Express Worldwide: 1A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti, BBP, Corp C; Ph.: 021-303-45-67; Fax: 021-303-45-43. UPS - United Parcel Service: 81-83, Calea 13 Septembrie, Bl. 77 AB; Ph.: 021-410-06-04; Fax: 021-410-99-10.

Bucuresti what, where, when

www.bucurestiwww.ro

AIRLINES

PRIVATE FLIGHTS

EMBASSIES

AEGEAN: Henri Coanda Int’l Air-

EUROJET AVIATION: 5 C 24, Sev-

port. 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: 224, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-318-76-61/62. 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

astopol St; Ph: 0745-003-604; Fax: 021-314-0893 ION TIRIAC AIR: 2 B Sos BucurestiPloiesti, Km 16,5; Ph: 021-230-6081, Fax: 021-204-2224

Albania: 021-211-98-29 Algeria: 021-211-51-50 Argentina: 021-312-17-39 Armenia: 021-319-76-04 Australia: 021-320-98-02 Austria: 021-210-43-54 Azerbaidjan:021-233-24-84 Belarus: 021-223-17-76 Belgium: 021-210-29-69 Brazil: 021-230-78-25 Bulgaria: 021-230-21-59 Canada: 021-307-50-00 Chile: 021-312-73-11 China: 021-232-88-58 Congo: 0740-808-009 Croatia: 021-313-03-69 Cuba: 021-211-87-95 Czech Republic: 021-303-92-30 Denmark: 021-300-08-00 Egypt: 021-211-09-38 Finland: 021-230-75-45 France: 021-303-10-00 Germany: 021-202-98-30 Great Britain: 021-201-72-00 Greece: 021-209-41-70 Hungary: 021-311-00-62 India: 021-211-54-51 Indonesia: 021-312-07-42 Irak: 021-233-90-08 Iran: 021-312-04-93 Israel: 021-318-94-15 Italy: 021-305-21-00 Japan: 021-319-18-90 Jordan: 021-210-47-05 Korea/N: 021-232-96-65 Korea/S: 021-230-71-98 Lebanon: 021-230-03-02 Macedonia: 021-210-08-80 Malaysia: 021-211-38-01 Mexic: 021-210-45-77 Moldova: 021-230-04-74 Morocco: 021-317-41-24 Netherlands: 021-208-60-30 Norway: 021-210-02-74 Nigeria: 021-312-86-85 Pakistan: 021-318-78-73 Palestina: 021-310-74-22 Peru: 021-223-12-53 Philippines: 021-224-80-70 Poland: 021-308-22-00 Portugal: 021-230-41-17 Quatar: 021-233-90-53 Russia: 021-222-31-70 Serbia & Muntenegru: 021-211-98-72 Slovakia: 021-300-61-00 Slovenia: 021-300-27-80 Spain: 021-233-91-90 Sweden: 021-406-71-00 Switzerland: 021-206-16-00 Syria: 021-319-24-67 S Africa: 021-313-37-25 Thailand: 021-311-00-31 Turkey: 021-210-04-07 Ukraine: 021-211-69-86 Uruguay: 021-222-58-74 USA: 021-200-33-00 Vatican: 021-313-94-90 Venezuela: 021-222-58-74 Vietnam: 021-311-16-04

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.

REGIONAL AIR SERVICES - AIR TAXI: Ph.: 0745-058-654; 0742-055-095

SN BRUSSELS AIRLINES (GSA): 1B

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. TURKISH AIRLINES: 6 D 35A, Balcescu Blvd., Ph: 021-311-3210, Fax: 021-311-2920.

BANKS ALPHA BANK: Neocity Tower. 237 B, Calea Dorobantilor, 3rd-9th floors; Ph: 021-209-2100; Fax: 021-231-6570; BANK OF CYPRUS: 187 B, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph: 021-409-9100 BANCA COMERCIALA ROMANA: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph. 0801-0801-22; Fax: 021-407-4200

BANCA ITALO ROMENA GRUPPO VENETO BANCA: 1, Dimitrie Cantemir Blvd. Ph. 021-317-1311; 021-317-1314; Fax: 021-317-1316 BANC POST: 6 - 6A, Calea Vitan. Ph. 0800-110-200 Banca Romaneasca: Member of the NBG; 35, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-305-9300; Fax: 021-305-9191

BANCA C.R. FIRENZE ROMANIA: 55, Unirii Blvd. Ph. 021-201-1930; Fax: 021-201-1931

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: 8, Iancu de Hunedoara Blvd. 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 INT’L: Floreasca II Business Center, 40-44, Banu Antonache St. Ph: 021-230-8430; 021208-9260 Fax. 021-318-5690 ING BANK: 11-13, Kiseleff Blvd.Ph: 021-209-1798; Fax: 021-222-1401 LIBRA BANK: 11, Grigore Mora 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: 66-69, Buzesti St. Ph.: 021-307-5700; Fax: 021-307-5730 PIRAEUS BANK ROMANIA: 34-36, Carol I Blvd., ground floor & 3rd floor. Ph.: 021-303-6969; Fax: 021-303-6909 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 2nd floor. Ph.: 021-202-0400 Call center: 0801-022-622 UNICREDIT TIRIAC BANK: 23-35, Ghetarilor St. Ph: 021-200-2000

VOLKSBANK ROMANIA: 171, Soseaua Mihai Bravu. Ph. 021-209-4400

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: 021313-2644 [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)

www.bucurestiwww.ro

All the above trains leave from Gara de Nord. Bucuresti what, where, when

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

UNIREA SHOPPING CENTER:

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. BANEASA SHOPPING CITY: 42D, Sos. Bucuresti-Ploiesti BUCURESTI MALL: 55-59, Calea Vitan 8 F CARREFOUR GALLERY: Autostrada Buc-Pitesti, km 11/12 CITY MALL: 2, Sos.Oltenitei.

1, Unirii Square

COMMERCIAL CENTER FEERIA: 44A, Sos. Bucuresti Ploiesti

ESPLANADA SHOPPING CENTER: 20, Sos. Vergului.

GRAND ARENA MALL: 12 Metalurgiei Blvd..

GRAND AVENUE SHOPPING GALLERY: 90, Calea 13 Septembrie JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel

JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA: 103 Bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. LIBERTY CENTER: 151-171, Progresului St. 9 C

MARIO PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER: 172, Calea Dorobantilor

MILITARI SHOPPING: 546-560 Iuliu Maniu Blvd.

ORHIDEEA SHOPPING CENTER: 210 - 210 B, Spl. Independentei 6 A PLAZA ROMANIA: 26, Timisoara Blvd.

RIN GRAND HOTEL SHOPPING GALLERY: 7D , Calea Vitan.

63-81, Calea Victoriei

WORLD TRADE PLAZA: 10, Montreal Sq.

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

DEPARTMENT STORES 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 5F

SUPERMARKETS There are stores in each section of town that present a complete range of products, from European to American, Arabian and Asian. Many world-wide 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

• 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

Bucuresti what, where, when

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GANT: • 52, Calea Victoriei

INA CENTER: • Unirea Shopping Center (ground floor) 8 E • 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. PRIVILEGE: • 172, Calea Dorobantilor • Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4 D • Unirea Shopping Center 8 E • Carrefour Militari Gallery, • Carrefour Colentina Gallery, • Selgros Baneasa • Selgros Berceni, • Selgros Pantelimon

• Bucuresti Mall • Baneasa Shopping City GRIFFES: Feraud, Missoni, Giorgio Armani - leg & bodywear, D & G, Roberto Cavalli Class, Roberta Scarpa, Moncler, Calvin Klein Jeans, Vicini, Giuseppe Zanotti Design, Dolce & Gabbana cravatte. 170, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D GUESS: 87-89, Calea Victoriei 6 D J. KRISTENSEN: Luxury women’s fashion & accessories from: Blumarine, Brioni, Emanuel Ungaro, Strenesse, Vicini; 63-81, Calea Victoriei 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.

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 CACHAREL: Fashion for Men. Baneasa Shopping City CASA FRUMOASA: Luxury men’s wear, handmade shoes and exquisite accessories from: Scabal, Brioni, Loro Piana, Santoni, Lorenzini. • 40, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. 5 C • Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8 B DISTINTO: Canali • 196, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D ELEGANCE - PARIS: Clasic ladies’ look, warm textures. • 90,Calea 13 Septembrie (Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery) 8 B •118, Calea Victoriei 6 D

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA - Flagshipstore: Ermenegildo Zegna, Z Zegna, Zegna Sport

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 6 D MANGO: • Bucuresti Mall • Plaza Romania

MARELLA: 21-23,Calea Victoriei 7 D MARIELLA BURANI: • 21-23, Calea Victoriei

DAVID SANDU JEWELRY: 136, Calea Victoriei. 6 D

FOLLI FOLLIE: Jewellery, Watches &

MARKS & SPENCER: • Bucuresti Mall 8F

• Orhideea Shopping Center MAXMARA: 122 A, Calea Victoriei 6 D MENGOTTI: Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Etro, Prada, Alessandro dell’Aqua, Cesare Paciotti, Balli, Loro Piana. 4-50, Calea Victoriei 7 D MODA & STYLE: Red Valentino, Valentino, Byblos Blu, Byblos, Roccobarocco, Gianfranco Ferre, Moschino Cheap & Chic, Moschino Jeans, Mochino, Cerruti, Lanvin, Love Sex Money, Versus, Versace, D&G, Just Cavalli, GF Ferre, Emporio Armani, Giorgio Armani, Diesel, Vicini, Ungaro, Krizia, See by Chloe, Emilio Pucci. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae St., first floor. C.C. Accepted. Tax Free. MOTIVI: • Baneasa Shopping City • Bucuresti Mall 8F • Plaza Romania NAUTICA: Latest collection. • 35, N. Balcescu Blvd. 6 D • City Mall, 1st floor 2, Soseaua Oltenitei • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor -55-59, Calea Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti • “No 36” Shops 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

Accessories. • Baneasa Shopping City • City Mall - groundfloor 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 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 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

• 118, Calea Victoriei

DEICHMANN: • Militari Shopping • Grand Arena Mall

GEOX: • Plaza Romania • Bucuresti Mall

SEROUSSI, PIERRE CARDIN, BRUNO SAINT HILAIRE: • Bucuresti

HUMANIC: • Baneasa Shopping City

Mall. 8 F • Plaza Romania • America House - 4-8, N. Titulescu Ave. 5 C • 241, Calea Mosilor (Outlet)

MIHAI ALBU: Selling his own cre-

STEILMANN: • 1-5, Magheru Blvd 6 D • Plaza Romania • Bucuresti Mall

TERZOATTO: Italian Fashion. 172, Calea Dorobantilor

TIMBERLAND: Latest collection. • 35, N. Balcescu Blvd. 6 D • Baneasa Shopping City • Plaza Romania • City Mall, 2, Soseaua Oltenitei • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor - 55-59, Calea Vitan ZARA: • Baneasa Shopping City • Plaza

• Militari Shopping ations of leathergoods and Deluxe footwear. Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8 B OTTER: • Plaza Romania • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • Unirea Shopping Center 8 D • Commercial Center Feeria • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Militari Shopping • Grand Arena Mall

BOOK STORES NOI: 18, N. Balcescu Blvd.

INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORATION ANATOLIAN CARPET BOUTIQUE:

Blaine, Mariella Burani, Phard, Primigi, Tru Trussardi. Commercial Center Feeria Z: Kids fashion. • 112, Calea Victoriei 6 D • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor 8 E • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Unirea Shopping Center 8 D

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

JEWELRY

SPORTS EQUIPMENT & TRAVEL

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

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, Show-

Romania

FASHION FOR KIDS KID SELECTIONS: Geox, Harmont &

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Bucuresti what, where, when

PUMA: Unirea Shopping Center. 8 E SERGIO TACCHINI: Carrefour - Autostrada Buc.-Pitesti km. 11-12 UMBRO: City Mall

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

HANUL CU TEI - ANTIQUES, ART GALLERY & AUCTION HOUSE: 7 D

room: • 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.

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.

CAMINUL ARTEI: 16, Biserica Enei St. GALLERY OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ART OF ROMANIA: 49-53, Calea Victoriei

HANUL CU TEI - ANTIQUES, ART GALLERY & AUCTION HOUSE: 63-65, Lipscani St., 1st floor. HILTON GOLD ART: 1-3 Episcopiei St. Athénée Palace Hilton. ORIZONT: 23A, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. SIMEZA: 20, Magheru Blvd.

ROMARTIZANA: 18-20, Calea Victoriei

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

ROMANIAN HANDICRAFTS

GIFTS

ART GALLERIES

KAPPA: City Mall LACOSTE: • Baneasa Shopping City

ART GLASS: 9-11, Selari St. 7 D “CRAII DE CURTEA-VECHE”: Furni-

• Bucuresti Mall. 8 F

LOTTO: • 225, Calea Mosilor

ture, artifacts, photography, art deco, documents from the last period of the 19th century. 14, Covaci St.

• Auchan - 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd. • City Mall NIKE: • 25, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall. 8 F • 95, Stirbei Voda St.

INSIDE-forever gifts by INNOVA: 4, Patriei St.

OBART: Vases, glassware and contemporary icons. 20, Magheru Blvd. STICEROM: Authentic glass artifacts made on the spot at Curtea Sticlarilor, a courtyartd dating back to 1857. 9-11, Selari St.

TOBACCO SHOPS

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 non-existent 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.

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 OBOR:

• PIATA AMZEI:

Located between Calea Victoriei and Blvd. Magheru near Piata Romana. The selection is somewhat better than other markets. There is a large and lovely flower section in a separate building at the edge of the outdoor section. Small buildings selling meats and imported items surround the outdoor market. Many kitchen utensils and housewares as well as personal care items can be found here. Recently the Market has started opening all night.

• 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. 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.

• PIATA DOROBANTILOR:

Bucuresti what, where, when

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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

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Bucuresti what, where, when

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 Teppanyaki Restaurant & Sushi Bar:

6 D Flavors of Japan & world class Asian Chefs, preparing the food right in front of your eyes, tantalize all your senses in Bucharest’s Premier Teppanyaki Restaurant & Sushi Bar. 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor. Ph.: 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, Sake 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, 0730562-456; Open: daily 12:00 - 24:00 Mandarin: 6 D Explore the exotic flavor of the Asian with Mandarin cuisine. Come join us and taste! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St., first floor. Ph.: 021-206-8066. Open: 12:00 - 23:00 (10:30 pm - last order).

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)

FRENCH CUISINE Casa Vernescu: 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. L’Estaminet: 6 B French restaurant, within the new Ibis Continental Nord Hotel. CC accepted. 143, Calea Grivitei. Open: 7:00-22:30. Heritage: 6 D The house located on 19, Polona street was built in 1920, serving as residence to the Tatarascu family. Gheorghe Tatarascu was Romania ’s prime minister throughout two periods, also acting as foreign minister and Romania’s ambassador to Paris. The Heritage Restaurant is aiming for going on top of the most sought-after restaurants in Bucharest in terms of exquisite gastronomy. The menu at L’Heritage is a contemporary French one with a Mediterranean touch. Products are carefully chosen by the chef himself as proof of their freshness and quality while the bread is home-made. Epicerie Fine boutique, Wine Cellar, Summer Terrace and Gourmet Events Club. CC accepted. Guarded parking lot. Ph.: 021 210.88.50; Open: Mon - Fri : 13.30-24.00 (22.30 last food order) Sat: 19.00 - 24.00 (22.30 last food order) Sun Closed.

Bucuresti what, where, when

Hilton Brasserie: 6 D The brasserie of the Hilton Hotel. Specialized in French cuisine. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Fax: 021-315-2121; Open: 12:00-24.00. 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.

FUSION/CONTEMPORARY CUISINE 6 D Attentive waiters, a fine dining atmosphere, gourmet fusion cuisine that tackles your senses, make dining at Avalon an unforgetable experience. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel. 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor. Ph.: 021-201-5030. Open for rich breakfast and a la carte lunch & dinner, between 7:00-22:00 till last order.

Avalon:

GERMAN CUISINE 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.

Die Deutsche Kneipe:

INDIAN CUISINE 6 F Traditional & contemporary Indian cuisine; finest Indian ingredients; Indian Chef native of New Delhi; Young, friendly well trained staff. Large selection of fine wines and cocktails. C.C. accepted. Parking lot. 36, Iancu Capitanu St. Ph.: 021-252-5157. Open: 12:00 - last guest (Mon. Sat.) 15:00 - until the last guest (Sun.) 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.

Karishma:

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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; 0753-999-333; Open: 12:00-24:00. Cafe Theatro Restaurant: 7 D Enjoy a simple and generous cuisine in our restaurant. Summer Terrace. C.C. accepted. Secure paying parking lot. 37B, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-312-5114. Open week days: 06:30 10:30; 12:30 - 16:00; 18:00 - 23:30 (last order). Open week-ends: 6:30 - 11:00; 12:30 - 16:00; 18:00 23:30 (last order) 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.: 021-2302769. 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

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: 5 C Within Ramada Plaza Convention Center Compound in a green island, Casa Doina is offering a luxury location, fully air-conditioned and a brand which is providing a special evening. With a adjoining playground for kids and terrace. C.C. accepted. 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 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. Corso Brasserie: Take your business downtown and treat yourself and your partners to a special mix of international and Romanian cuisine, buffet or à la carte in the Corso Brasserie. The spectacular view onto Bucharest’s busiest boulevard is complimentary! 85 seats Air conditioned. Free parking. InterContinental Hotel, 4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-310-2020; Open daily: 06:30 - 23:00; Business Lunch Buffet: Monday-Friday, from 12:00 to 16:00 hrs. Every Sunday, from 12:00 to 16:00 hrs. we offer a top quality “Brunch on the Boulevard”. Kids’room with entertainment. Crowne Plaza “Brasserie”: 2 A The “Brasserie”will entice you with its casual ambiance, great homemade specialties, numerous theme buffets and entertaining atmosphere. C. C. accepted. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-224-0034; Open: 18:00-23:30. Cupola: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, Cupola is an all-day International dining restaurant. Great American breakfast buffet, modern classics evening menu and mouth-watering Sunday brunch. CC accepted. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021-403-1903; Open: 06:30-23:00 Dacia Felix: 6 D Group restaurant within Radisson SAS Hotel for 224 persons. Terracce available. 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Super Breakfast Buffet: 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 La Boema: 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 7 D ; Ph.: 031-106-1111 ext. 345 Open: 11 am - until the last guest leaves. Madrigal Restaurant: We offer a full à la carte menu with our famous, suculent prime Argentinian beef cuts as our signature dishes. International cuisine at its best! 65 seats. Air conditioned. Free parking. InterContinental Hotel. 4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-3102020; Open: Monday - Saturday,18:00 -23:00 . Majestic: 7 D Classic, luxurious restaurant with an intimate atmosphere, café-concert music. Snack bar and catering services. Major C.C. accepted. 11 Academiei St. Ph.: 021-310-2720; Open: 12:00 - 23:00. 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 Prime Steaks & Seafood: 6 D Grill Steak & Seafood restaurant within Radisson SAS Hotel for 44 persons. Red glass for show kitchen, walk in wine cellar set-up in a hot, relaxed and upscale mood. 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Lunch: Monday to Friday 12:30 - 15:00; Dinner: Monday to Sunday 18:30 - 23:00. 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.

Casa Doina:

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, 42-44, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti, Ph.: 031-620-8412; Open: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 18:00

ITALIAN CUISINE Caffé Città:

Northen Italian Menu restaurant within Radisson SAS Hotel for 126 persons. Enoteca, espresso bar, pizzeria, salumeria, gelateria, pasticceria in a fresh, natural, urban and contemporary mood. Terracce for 96 persons available. 63-68, Calea Victoriei. 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 Roberto’s: 6 D The main restaurant of the Hilton Hotel. Specializes in Italian cuisine from various Italian regions, including Tuscany, Rome and Venice. With a genuine Italian Chef. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777; Open: 06:30 - 24:00.

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. Gurded parking lot. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St., first floor. Ph.: 021-206-8015. Open: 12:00 - 23:00 (22:30 - last order).

Trattoria “Il Calcio”:

MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE Alfresco - Restaurant & Lounge: Famous dishes from Portugal, Italy, Spain, Marocco, Greece and France, such as : Skate Wing, Cataplana, Sea food risotto, Fillet of Turbot, Grilled Calamari with chorizo sausage, Surf & Turf, Tiramisu Savoiardi. Excellent service, great atmosphere! C.C. Accepted. Air conditioning, parking lot. 11, Uruguay St. Ph./Fax: 021-222-7700 / 01. 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. Les Oliviades: 2 B Stunning decoration recreating a typical Provençale home, for an experience of relaxation, with the delight of quality Mediterranean dishes. 10, Montreal Sq. Ph.: 021-318-3000. Open: 06:30 - 24:00. 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.: 021312-81-96; 0722-204-884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00.

MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE 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.

Golden Falcon:

ROMANIAN CUISINE Burebista Vanatoresc: 6 E Traditional Romanian cuisine & Venison dishes. CC accepted. 14, Batistei St. Ph.: 021-211-8929. Open daily: 12:00 – 24:00. Caro: 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 wine-cellar, large selection of Romanian wines, traditional Romanian customs and hospitality. CC accepted. 285A, Calea Bucuresti. Ph.: 021-236-1510; Ph./Fax: 021-236-1511.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

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. 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.

Count Dracula Club:

VEGETARIAN CUISINE

Vegetarian and Fish Cuisine. Organic Ingredients and Wines. 25, Banu Manta Blvd. Piata Victoriei area, near sector 1 Town-Hall; Ph.: 0788-788-111

SUMMER TERRACES Orange Garden: 2C Mediterranean & International cuisine, fresh and relaxing atmesphere are waiting for you on the most exclusivist garden in the city. C.C. accepted. 44A, Daniel Danielopolu St. (Ramada Bucharest North). Ph.: 021-233-5000. Open: daily 12:00-24:00. Poolside Grill: 6 D Refresh, revive and rejoice in the garden setting of Poolside Grill, at the ground level of Radisson SAS. Located in Downtown Bucharest, the place offers BBQ Argentinean rib-eye steak, fresh lemonade, mineral water, draught beer, Slush Puppie, frozen margarita, as well as many other dishes and drinks. Smoking allowed. Dress code: Casual. Seating capacity: 110. Open: 12.30-23.00 seasonal; Sunday Brunch 12.30-16.30 seasonal, 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Ph: 021 311 90 00. The Cafe Theatro Summer Terrace: 6 D Enjoy the new a la carte and wine menus. Try as well the Novo Express promotion with a delicious ribeye steak grilled on the barbecue right in front of your eyes, coming up with a side dish, salad and a drink of your choice, for only 59 Lei/person. 37B, Calea Victoriei, Novotel Bucarest City Centre, Ph.: 021-308-8500. 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. The promise of a great summer – tasty food and attractive shade for a relaxed atmosphere. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.:021-403-1919; Open: 12:00 – 01:00 from May till October. Times Terrace: At the Golden Tulip Times Hotel. The perfect palce to have a great time relax & get into the mood with cold beer, refreshing cocktails, or summer tastes delights. Free wireless internet available. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.:021-316-6516; Open: 08:00 – 23:00.

The Garden:

Bucuresti what, where, when

COFFEE SHOPS 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.: 021-314-3834. 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; 021-313-9316 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 Hilton Le Bistrot: 6 D Cosy, friendly atmosphere, perfect for enjoying sastey snacks, drinks and the French - Style pasty counter. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Open: 12:00 - 24:00 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. 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. 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. Tekaffe: 6 B The ideal atmosphere for your portion of energy. Large selection of coffees, cocktails, sandwiches, salads and delicious desserts. Within Hello Hotels. 143, Calea Grivitei. Ph.: 0372-121 821; Open: week days 11 am- 2 pm; Sat-Sun 11 am- 22 pm 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.: 021403-1901; Open: 09:00 - 23:00.

Caffe & Latte:

PUBS, COCKTAIL BARS & CLUBS Bar “37”: 7 D A trendy and dynamic bar, with a young but elegant look, placed in the main hall of Novotel Bucarest City Centre Hotel. You can serve from foie gras to lobster club, from a mere caffe to a sophis-

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ticated drink. C.C. accepted. 37B, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-312-5114. Open: 07:00 - 02:00. Dark Bla Bar: 6 D Cognac & cigars bar within Radisson SAS Hotel for 34 persons. Single Malts, Cognacs & Cigars in an upscale & late night mood. 63-81, Calea Victorie. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 17:00 - 02:00. Light Bla Terrace: 6 D Outdoor, atrium bar within Radisson SAS Hotel. Beverages, cocktails, cakes, pastries, snacks in a chill, cool stuff and contemporary mood. Terracce available. 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 12:00 – 02:00. Bla Lounge Bar: 6 D Ice bar within Radisson SAS Hotel for 108 persons. Vodka, Cocktails, Beverages & Snacks in a hear, feel and taste mood. 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 02:00; Sunday 09:00 till midnight. Champions: 8B 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 (Closed for lunch during summer). Crowne Plaza “Lobby Bar”: 2 A Crowne Plaza Lobby Bar is the best place for an apperitif, a glass of wine or beer (every time with peanuts and snacks) and for a cocktal. The professional bartender is happy to fulfill your every wish, creating a special cocktail for you. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-224-0034. Open: 06:00 - 24:00. Centro Bar & Lounge: 6 D In the throbbbing heart of Bucharest, be part of the city center action in Centro Bar & Lounge, while savoring your tailor made cocktails in the hospitality of our experienced bartenders. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel. 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor. Ph.: 021-201-5030; 021-224-3000; Open: 09:00-23:00 last order. 2nd Centro Bar & Lounge: 2 A It is a great inner city Bar & Lounge newly opened. It was made with the finest furniture and design, to look very trendy indeed. The greatest cocktails and coffees are made here. The food is just fantastic! The menu is filled with interesting dishes, crammed with fresh ingredients. At every lunchtime you can find also a menu of the day. The crowd is super cool; you can party late in the night weekends. Friday & Saturday DJ Y-lau is spinning tunes and setting the groove. 239, Calea Dorobantilor; Ph.: 021-331-5533; Open: 8:00-24:00. 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. Gaia Bar & Lounge: Perfect place for special parties. Interior design made by well known Romanian fashion designer C.C. accepted. 40-44 Banu Antonache St. Ph.: 0726-327-061. Open: Thu. - Sun. 22:00 - till morning, 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 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. 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. Hilton English Bar: 6 D Within the Hilton Hotel. C.C. accepted. St. Episcopiei 1-3. Ph.: 021-303-3777/ ext. 3962. Open: 11:00-02:00. Intermezzo Bar: After a meeting or before a concert relax and enjoy the live piano music. 50 seats. InterContinental Hotel. 4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. Ph.:021-310-2020 Open daily: 08:00 -01:00 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 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: 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. Twice: 8 E Your only vice. Cocktail bar & exquisite club. Two floors, two music levels, two art galleries. The ideal place to meet a friend or to see a celebrity. 4 St. Vineri St. Open: 09:00 - 05:00.

OTHERS Madrigal: 7 D Piano Bar on the 2nd floor of the Intercontinental Hotel. Quiet Club for pleasant cocktails. 4, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-310-2020. Open: 09:0023:00. Beverly Hills Bistro: 8F Rafined Int’l menu. 55-59, Calea Vitan (Bucuresti Mall, 2nd floor). Ph.: 021-321-0086. Open: 10:00 - midnight. Café Royal: 6 D Brasserie, Pastry shop and French Bistro at the ground floor of the Hilton Hotel. CC accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Open: 08:00-24:30 Bistro, 12:00-24:00 Brasserie. Kentucky Fried Chicken: 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.

DISCOS Blue Night: 6 A This is the place for joy and fun. 290, Splaiul Independentei. (Complex Regie R3). Ph.: 021-222-8821. Open: 22:00-05:00. Club A: 7 D The hang-out of architecture students, a good choice for Monday nights. Air conditioning. 14, Blanari St. Ph.: 021-315-68-53. Open: 20:00-05:00

THEY DELIVER... Jerry's Pizza: Ph. 021-327-4040. Open daily: 11.0023.00. Fri. -Sun. 11.00-24.00.

Mike’s Delivery: Oriental & European dishes. Ph.: 021-320-2030. Open: 10.00-24.00. Wu Xing: Chinese menu. Phone: 021-222-2126. Open: daily. 10:00-22:30. 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 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 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

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Bucuresti what, where, when

THE LAST WORD • Volume 16 • Number 5 • • June 2009 • Published by Crystal Publishing Group srl. http://www.bucurestiwww.ro

Dear Reader,

Editor-in-Chief: SORANA MAN Coordinating Editor: Gabriel Arsene Web Site: Vlad Alexandrescu Editorial Dept. e-mail: office@bucurestiwww.ro Photos:

I had a great week-end last week, the spring weather was beautiful, and I gave myself a couple of afternoons "free". I usually work through the week-ends while in Bucharest, to catch up with my work. In a way some of this time was also work, as I was invited to meet Traian Ragulescu of the Tourist Agency Association, but we met in Izvor park. As a park, Izvor is nothing special, just an expanse of grass and trees, alongside the Palace of Parliament, though the huge building looming off to your left, as you enter the park, is impressive. But this week-end the park was bustling with activities. There was a rural foods exposition, with a juried culinary competition. Alongside the competing restaurants were multiple tents offering a full range of Romanian handicrafts. There was handcrafted silver jewelry, wooden toys, painted ceramic pottery and more. I was impressed by the creativity to be found in the Romanian countryside, which had been brought to Izvor for all Bucharesters to enjoy. And enjoy it they did, families with young children, the elderly, young couples, they all crowded the walkways, admired the products, and tasted or bought the foods. There was an entertainment tent, with periodic musical performances, and off to the side two big tents housing a tourist agency exhibition, where I met my friend Traian. We toured the stands offering tours abroad, as well as visits to various parts of the country, and then had a beer and sausages and talked a bit. I came back on Sunday afternoon to take some photos, and bought a couple of small gifts for my grandchildren. When I got there, they were blowing up a hot air balloon.

Looking at this huge, multi-colored air bubble with the background of the Parliament Palace was quite fun. Later, on Saturday evening, I was invited to a cocktail party at the Radisson Hotel, for the executive committee of FIJET, the federation of journalists writing about tourism. A pleasant event, which gave me my first look at the newest addition to the 5 star hotel scene in town. On my way home that evening, I reflected on the pleasant time I had spent and how much of it had depended on the good grace of Nature, the warm sunny weather, the green grass and the shading trees, and how take it all for granted, when the weather is nice. I remembered about the flooding earlier this year in Romania, Katrina in new Olreans, where I lost my home. I believe we can no longer afford to take nature for granted, the stormy periods are more frequent and more severe every year. I am afraid if we do not begin to take global warming seriously, and I don't just mean our politicians, but each and everyone of us, soon it may be too late, perhaps not for us, but for our children and grandchildren, who may not be able to experience the simple pleasures like my past week-end. Please think about it, and please share your thoughts with me, as you enjoy your visit to Bucharest.

Ludwig Gelobter, Publisher PS. Your comments are invited at lgelobter.bucurestiwww.ro

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Publisher: Ludwig Gelobter © 2009 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.

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