C O N T E N T S
editorial
DECEMBER 2010 - JANUARY 2011
White or Black Magic? 6
Gabriel ARSENE •
REAL ESTATE New Buildings of Bucharest
7
TOURISM
6
Ice Hotel 2011 8
COVER STORY Romanian Winter Traditions
12
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SELECTION
2, 36
DEPARTMENTS
• News, Events and Attractions
8
• The Last Word 16 23
City Life
ESSENTIAL INFO • HOTELS • MUSEUMS • SHOW BIZ • CULTURAL INSTITUTES • CITY MAP
Business
INT’L. ORGANIZATIONS • LOCAL INSTITUTIONS • BUSINESS CONNECTIONS • AIRLINES • TRAINS • EMBASSIES • BANKS
26 30 35
Stores and More Haute Cuisine Nightlife
Romania can be magical, white or black, depends from which direction you look, and then you may endlessly talk defending your point of view. Exactly how is happening in the last months of televised national politics. What should we do with the reality, however, the one in which we are observed from all directions? What do we do? Because, despite the statements from all parts, we, the investigated ones, we feel increasingly worse and increasingly abandoned. And we don’t really understand why, although left, we pay hard a gang of leeches which don’t want to leave the ham where they’ve been planted. It’s like, in a company you hire for big money a manager, who end sticking up to bankruptcy and insists to be nominated as liquidator of the company, to let him take what’s left... For the normal inhabitant of Bucharest, midrange, who works diligently at his job and eventually meets his half during the weekend, the end of this year comes as a blessing. We end another torturing year, but Romanians still have hope. Now they hope that it cannot be worst than 2010! And that, perhaps on the last meters before the gap, “someone will change something” in the course of the wheels so that they will begin to work as a mechanism! Many fellow-citizen really hoped that NASA would announce that they discovered the planet Nibiru, or planet X, which would make the earth stand still (!) three days, then begin to spin in the opposite sense! So, they said, Romania would begin to function normally, it seems to us that at this moment is the opposite... Now comes December and the beginning of January, when all the Romanians are used to make and receive expensive or small gifts. And the city will fill with shoppers, mostly in search of special offers. The crowd from the city will give arguments for the government, as for the foreigners visiting Bucharest. They will all say, look Romanians still have money! Without waiting the retailer’s statistics, which will come as soon as mid-January, and will confirm statistically: Romanians really do not have any more money! So you, the leaders, should help them make honestly more money, at least in 2011! And this for real, not magically!
Green Capital Candidates The national competition addressed to the county capital towns in Romania, started in early July by Green Umbrella (Umbrela Verde) association, with support from the Ministry of Environment and Forests, has been prolonged. County capital municipalities can still apply for the title of Green Capital of Romania until December 20. “The project is part of a broader campaign under the Green Umbrella brand, which has proposed that 2010 would bring a visible change in the way the Romanians see the responsibility towards the environment, starting with the local authorities. Registrations recorded so far confirm that an “eco” city is actually creating a favorable environment protection system that would reflect
positively on each citizen. We want the Romanians to realize that is their strength to make a change to a cleaner and greener future,” told us Alina Bratu, Green Umbrella coordinator. Till now 11 city halls are in the competition: Alexandria, Brasov, Braila, Cluj-Napoca, Deva, Sector 2 and Sector 6 of Bucharest, Sfantu Gheorghe, Slatina, Slobozia and Timisoara. “Gaining he statute prize of the competition will signify, primarily, a national recognition of the cumulative efforts of local authorities and inhabitants of a city to have a positive environmentally impact. I hope that this year experience to be the beginning of an ongoing awareness campaign,” said the Minister of Environment and Forests, Laszlo Borbély.
VISIT OUR WEB SITE FOR THE ELECTRONIC VERSION OF THIS ISSUE AND AN EXTENDED ARCHIVE
Representatives of the Ministry of Environment and Forests and of the Green Umbrella program will jury until January 20 2011. The Awards Gala is to be held in Bucharest, in late January. The winner will be promoted the entire 2011 year, at national level, with the title of Green Capital of Romania. Moreover, it will receive a set of elements of signage to be installed in the city to highlight the status of Green Capital of Romania.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
NEWS, EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Premiere at the Opera The Bucharest National Opera staged recently the premiere “Celan,” a co-production in collaboration with the Bremen Lyric Theatre (Germany). “Celan,” a creation of the composer Peter Ruzicka, considered one of the most valuable lyric works of the contem-
beloved international events of gifts and souvenirs organized in Romania, with a steadily increasing number of visitors. Toys, jewelry, cosmetics, paintings, decorations, all will be a delight for shoppers looking for the perfect holiday gift.
Santa’s Workshop in Baneasa Santa and his helpers moved in Baneasa Shopping City every weekend until December 26. Here stopped the reindeer sleigh with Santa Claus, close to an over 3 meters high snowman surrounded by dancing penguins. Arranged trees, ice stars and gifts transform itself into a fairyland the ground floor fountain, in a time when fun and festive atmosphere are the keywords in Baneasa Shopping City.
rected by Cristi Puiu, have been purchased by Cinema Guild, and the movie will be released in U.S. cinemas in 2011. The film “Aurora” which was premiered in Un Certain Regard section of Cannes Film Festival this year, presents Cristi Puiu not only as director but also as an actor in leading role. Puiu plays Viorel, a divorced man who, due to a depression, give in to extreme actions. The distribution includes, among others, Clara Voda and Gelu Colceag. porary music, was successfully represented in Dresden, Mainz, Darmstadt, Cologne and Bremen. The creation is a tribute to one of the leading modern German poets, Paul Celan (pseudonym for Paul Antschel), a Jew originally from Romania. The musical direction of the show belongs to conductor Vlad Conta, is directed by Vera Nemirov, the sets were made by Stefan Heyn, while Klaus Noack is the costumes creator. The show is staring Stefan Ignat, Ionut Pascu, Tina Munteanu, Madeleine Pascu, Dorina Chesa, Horia Sandu, Stefan Schuller, Mihai Lazar, Valentin Racoveanu, Florin Simionca, Vincentiu Taranu... The show can be attended both in December and Jannuary.
Souvenirs 2010 & Christmas Fair
December 2-5, Romexpo
Before going down the chimneys of our houses, Santa Clause brings his gifts and surprises at Romexpo. During December 2-5, Romexpo hosts the annual international exhibition of gifts, suggestively named Souvenirs, this year together with a Christmas Fair. Unfolding before the winter holidays, this event is expected by all those who are preparing for a magic Christmas and for the passing towards the New Year. A well chosen gift, Christmas tree decorations, decorative candles, special flower arrangements, interior decorations, all these and much more can be found in one place: at Romexpo. Souvenirs is one of the most
2
Bucuresti what, where, when
Good Man - 20 Years
December 12, Sala Palatului, 18:00
Baneasa Shopping City Gifts Pole comprise also the Stories Pole. Each child will meet with beloved characters: Snow White, with her helpers Kai and Gerda, Grinch, Canele and Max, Scrooge, Santa’s elves and reindeers, of which the best known is Rudolf. The story characters will invite the children to learn the winter traditions of other countries in Europe and worldwide. Moreover, every weekend between 13:00 and 20:00, Santa’s elves will teach little ones how to decorate gingerbread, to create and paint their own balls and Christmas decorations. During December 4 to 5 weekend, children will learn how to decorate their little boots waiting for Saint Nicolas. Surprises, stories and gifts will culminate on the weekend December 17 to 18, when children will meet Santa in person. In this period opens for its visitors Baneasa Fun Park, an authentic traditional Christmas fair. More square wooden houses will occupy the main entrance and will entice visitors with gingerbread and hot drinks.
Aurora, in USA The distribution rights in the United States of America for the film “Aurora”, di-
www.bucurestiwww.ro
20 years ago, the Cultural Foundation “Good Man” (Om bun) launch the first National Festival of Folk Music with the same name, a cultural event meant to designate each year the best new creations of indigenous folk and most promising debuts, as well as to bring to the attention of audience, through live recitals, the big names of the genre in Romania. The festival’s popularity grew from year to year, becoming the main folk event in our country and every year is in-
cluding the most valuable folk artists in Romania. In 2010, Good Man Festival will have a special character because of the anniversary of 20 years of existence. The artists who will have recitals at the festival are incontestable figures of the Romanian folk music: Nicu Alifantis, Alexandru Andries, Mircea Baniciu, Ducu Bertzi, George Nicolescu, Victor Socaciu, Doru Stanculescu, Vasile Seicaru, or Mircea Vintila. Some winners of the previous editions will also attend the event, including: Ada Milea, Daniel Iancu, Maria Gheorghiu. Festival’s host will be Adrian Ivanitchi and special guest is Donovan Leitch.
Since 1997, the charismatic conductor of the Johann Strauss Orchestra Ensemble is, at the same time, the conductor of the Schonbrunn Palace orchestra’s in Vienna. On the scene of the famous palace halls have evolved over time great names of classical music like Mozart and Haydn! The names of these geniuses of the classical music are not absent from the Austrian orchestra repertoire, which is performing works by composers of the Strauss family, as well Lehar, Bethoven, Haydn, Mozart and Schubert... the icing on the cake is represented by the famous Christmas themes of Johann Sebastian Bach.
The New Trains Schedule 2010/2011
The Very Best of Black Gospel in Romania
CFR Passengers announced that from December 12 will move to the new trains schedule 2010/2011. Tickets for the trains which will run between December 10 to 18
December 22, Bucharest National Theatre Grand Hall, 19:00
as Seen by Ion B.” was represented by the director Alexander Nanau, Carmen Harabagiu, HBO Romania Country Manager, and Aurelian Nica, one of the HBO Romania producers.
The Cultural-Artistic Association Best ArtT and DMB Music Records organize the gospel music concert dedicated to the holiday season of the renowned choir The Very Best of Black Gospel, currently on tour in Europe.
Johann Strauss Ensemble Concert
December 11, Sala Palatului
Russell McGregor, Johann Strauss Orchestra Ensemble conductor said he loves our country in the first year he arrived here. Since then, every year, he and the orchestra he leads, arrive in Romania for the traditional holiday concert! McGregor loves our country and the Romanian spirit. “I always enjoy coming back to Romania. You have a won-
are available for sale only with a small advance. To avoid errors in choosing of routes consisting of trains and traffic on the current timetable and the one valid from December 12, for the trains leaving from the original station on December 11 passengers will not be able to buy tickets through Ticket CFR online or tickets machines in stations or at authorized distributors. For these trains, passengers can buy tickets only from the station ticket offices or travel agencies.
Emmy International for “The World as Seen by Ion B” ”The World as Seen by Ion B,” (Lumea vazuta de Ion B.), the HBO documentary directed by Alexander Nanau, won the category of Arts Programming in the 38th edition of the International Emmy Awards. It is for the first time when a production of HBO Central Europe wins the most important statue in the television industry. The winners were announced at the ceremony held in November, at the Hilton hotel in New York. At the event, “The World
derful country, I love the Romanian soul and everywhere I go in the world I fondly speak about the tour we take each year in your country,” said McGregor.
Artists with exceptional voices that make up the elite gospel music choir, “The Very Best of Black Gospel” are some of the most renowned singers of their kind in the world: Gregory M. Kelly (musical director, singer and instrumentalist - keyboards), Rev. Charles Lyles (music director, singer and instrumentalist - keyboards), Dorrey Lin Lyles, Natalie Wilson, Latrelle Simmons, Lerato Sebele, Keisha Whitney and Darnita Hassel (solo voice), Justin Hezekiah Lesley (vocalist and drummer), Ron Jackson and Steve Spradley (vocal soloists). They activated in some of the best known and appreciated throughout the world gospel choirs and music bands. Over the recent years, The Very Best of Black Gospel managed to become one of the most popular and requested music gospel choirs in the world.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
3
1 3, Franklin St., Ph.: 021 315 0024, www.fge.org.ro
Chopin – Fantasy on Polish theme op 13; Andante spianato and The Great Polonaise (closing of Chopin Year), Ceaikovski – Symphony no. 5 The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Christian Badea, Soloist: Joanna Lawrynowicz
December 19, 11:00 Christmas Concerto Atheneum Brass, Ion Bogdan Stefanescu and Acoustic Choir
December 20, 19:00
GEORGE ENESCU PHILHARMONIC All concerts begin at 19.00 hours and are held at the Romanian Athenaeum Concert Hall.
December 2 & 3, 19:00 Puccini – “Salve Regina”, Puccini – Adagietto, Faure – Recviem The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Laurence Equilbey. With the Accentus Choir (France)
December 5, 11:00 Educative concert – String instruments, “Clasic e fantastic” Project. Vivaldi, Bach, Haendel, Mozart, R. Strauss The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Horia Andreescu
December 9 & 10, 19:00 Mozart – Concerto for piano and orchestra KV 459, Bruckner – Messa in Fa The Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Iosif Ion Prunner, Soloist: Tamas Vesmas
December 16 & 17, 19:00 Silvestri – Toccata and Fuga,
4
Bucuresti what, where, when
Christmas Concerto The Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Iosif Ion Prunner
December 23 & 24, 19:00 Paul Constantinescu – Christmas Oratorio The Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Horia Andreescu, Soloists: Irina Iordachescu, Oana Andra, Vasile Orhean, Iustinian Zetea. Choir Conductor: I. I. Prunner
January 6 & 7, 19:00
harmonic. Conductor: Alexander Myrat, Soloist: Anastasios Papas
January 16, 11:00 Educative concert – Seasons in music, “Clasic e fantastic” Project. Vivaldi The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Ilarion Ionescu Galati
January 20 & 22, 19:00 Dvorak – Concerto for cello and orchestra, Mahler – Symphony no. VI (Mahler Year) The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Camil Marinescu, Soloist: Marin Cazacu
January 27 & 28, 19:00 Berlioz – „Berenice”, S. Saens – Concerto no. 2 for piano and orchestra 1, Dukas – „To Peartrees” The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Nicolae Moldoveanu, Soloist: Naoko Anzai
BUCHAREST NATIONAL OPERA
Beethoven – Symphony no IX The
Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Phil-
www.bucurestiwww.ro
THE SNOW PRINCESS
December 5, 18:30 LA TRAVIATA
December 8, 18:30 LE CANTATRICI VILLANE
December 9, 18:30 AMADEUS
December 10, 18:30 JESUS IS BORN EVENING ONB
December 11, 18:30 ALZIRA
December 12, 11:00 LA CANTERINA
December 12, 18:30 TANGO RADIO AND JULIET
December 15, 18:30 ALZIRA
December 16, 18:30 TANGO RADIO AND JULIET
December 17, 18:30
December 19, 11:00 HANSEL AND GRETEL
December 19, 18:30 TANGO RADIO AND JULIET
January 13 & 14, 19:00 Gershwin – Concerto in Fa, Bernstein – West side story –symphonic dances, J. Williams – „Jurassic Parc”, „ Schindler’s List”, „Indiana Jones”. The Philharmony
TURANDOT
December 4, 18:30 - CELAN December 5, 11:00
EVGHENI ONEGHIN December 18, 18:30 - CELAN
Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Jin Wang, Choir Conductor: I.I.Prunner. Soloists: Lavinia Mamot, Sidonia Nica, Cristian Mogosan, Stefan Ignat Ives – No Answer Question,
December 3, 18:30
December 24, 18:30 70 72, M. Kogalniceanu Blvd. Ph.: 021 313 1857; www.operanb.ro
NUTCRACKER
December 26, 19:00
December 1, 18:30
PUPPETS SHOP
THE LAND OF DREAMS
December 31, 18:00
December 2, 18:30
THE LILAC (18:00)
LE NOZZE DE FIGARO
PROMS Jazz & Classic
PROMS Crossover Tour – Jazz & Classic presents, starting December, a new music concept, a mix between jazz and classic artists who perform together musical pieces especially created for them, ap-
proaching well known themes from the international jazz, pop, blues, classic and film music repertoire. “Music for soul, mind and spirit, in a more urban, refined style,” as Luigi Gageos, Event Director, told us.
The innovative product of PROMS Crossover Tour – Jazz & Classic, organised by jmEvents, comes in front through its originality but also through its European dimension. The event takes place in 5 countries: France, Germany, Italy, Moldova and Romania, between December 2010 and May 2012. PROMS concept was considered a success in all the countries it has been implemented so far. The 2008 - 2009 tour introduced over 25 concerts in 7 countries: France, Austria, Italy, Hungary, Bulgaria, Greece and Romania, concerts performed in front of an enthusiastic audience, which received the musicians with loud applauses and „encore” shouts. PROMS musicians are top artists from many European countries, winners of several international jazz and classical music festivals in the world. Their talent and passion give the consistency, the authenticity and flavour of each concert, promising an expressive, modern and spectacular performance, a variety of rhythms and styles, full of virtuosity and refinement, which will bewitch the public. PROMS events are so colourful, that they immediately become very attractive for the audience, regardless their age, education or music preferences. They take place in traditional concert hall as well as in unconventional places, indoor or outdoor. PROMS Crossover Tour - Jazz & Classic project is organised with the support of the European Union, through the Culture 2007 – 2013 Programme.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
5
real estate
New Buildings of Bucharest E v o c a sa O p t i m a in Tit a n Starting this month, the Titan neighborhood enriched with a new building - Evocasa Optima. Adama has completed the first block of the complex Evocasa Optima, of the six that make up the project. The company has invested in the first phase, Euro 14 million. The building has U + G + 11 and contains 83 apartments with one and two bedrooms including ground floor garden apartments and penthouses. The building is over 80% sold, only 14 apartments being for sale. The building offers high quality customer lifts, storage space for bicycles, antislip ceramic on the stairs for greater safety on wet or cold weather, intercom, electromagnetic card entry access, utility rooms in the basement of the building, ground and underground parking. The construction complies with international standards of protection in case of fires or earthquakes. Customers have important facilities in the area, while the project is located near the subway station December 1, near the Trapezului Market, schools, kindergartens and supermarkets. A one bedroom apartment (with areas between 57.8 and 93 square meters) is priced between Euros
63,000 and 76,000 + 5% VAT. The 2-bedrooms apartments start from a 106 square meters surface. Adama offers flexible ways for buyers to pay the apartment, including: financing through the First House governmental program, or rates at the developer - advance between 15% and 25% to the delivery of the apartment, 24 monthly installments to the developer, the price difference going to be pay at the end of “Rent.” Adama developer also signed a partnership with Bank Leumi, to help the clients who wish to purchase a residential property in Evocasa Optima using a credit. “Through the Evocasa Optima, we have continued provide high quality housing in easily accessible places. We implemented in our homes the care and attention we give to aesthetics and quality of living spaces and green spaces. We offer our clients a fully optimized space, safety, quality and comfort,” told us Asher Lax, Adama VP Marketing & Sales. Adama has completed in December 2009 the first phase of Evocasa Completa project in Bacau, in February 2010 completed its first building Evocasa Armonia, inaugurated in April in Bucharest Evocasa Select project and completed in July 2010 in Ploiesti Evocasa Orizont. Adama is a developer active in Romania, Moldova, Ukraine and Turkey. The company is currently developing over 45 residential and commercial projects, totaling millions of square meters of construction in various stages of planning and execution.
G o lden Ros e Res idential Complex in Mogos oaia Also in November was released Golden Rose Residential Complex in Mogosoaia, which will be built on a total area of 23,300 sqm and will include G + 3 blocks
6
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
with a total of 147 one and two bedroom apartments, villas, a 800 square meters shopping center, and a kindergarten. Golden Rose ensemble is located at a distance of about ten kilometers from Bucharest, with access from Bucharest-Targoviste road (DN1A) or from Chitila road (DN7). Moreover, in the vicinity of the Golden Rose, began the building of the largest mall in Romania, Colloseum Center, which will be located on Chitila road, near the Ring Highway and will include famous brands, among which Baumax, Carrefour, Flanco and Leroy Merlin. The City Hall has also approved an investment worth about Euros 13 million for modernization of Chitila infrastructure and to extend the tram line to the Ring Highway.
Total area of the apartments in the Golden Rose residential complex varies between 65 and 176 sqm, with prices starting at Euros 45,000. The villas have a total area of about 130 sqm and prices start at Euro 129.000. Each villa apartment has a groundfloor dining room, kitchen, bathroom and a garden, and upstairs will have a double bedroom, two small bedrooms, two bathrooms and a terrace. Each property will have a parking place and a storing place and, while the ground floor apartments in the blocks have gardens. Currently, there are under construction three blocks and four villas, up to the end of this year going to be completed at least one of the blocks. Apartments and villas will be delivered turnkey and can be purchased in installments, with customer advice and financing in advantageous conditions from Intesa Sanpaolo and real estate advice from Frimm real estate agency.
tourism
Epoque Hotel,
the Newest Luxury Hotel in Bucharest Epoque Hotel, the newest luxury hotel in Bucharest, was opened on November 1. The hotel addresses to the up-market segment and introduces a new concept on the market, both in terms of structure and design and the degree of personalized services. Epoque Hotels is a luxury brand targeting free independent travellers with high standards of travel, whose selection criteria are uniqueness of the location, personalized services and individual needs. Hotel Epoque offers its guests a unique structural concept with generous living space, exclusive apartment type, providing full comfort for work and relaxation, but also a wide range of facilities and a high degree of customization of services, including the option to be assisted by a personal butler during the stay. The hotel enjoys an ideal location, near Cismigiu park, with easy access to downtown Bucharest and also remaining isolated from the noisy city traffic. Architecture and interior design have been designed in harmony with the surroundings and local history, a creation unit that follows the same mix of sophistication and identity. With an investment of Euro 8 million, D & M Perfect Real Estate is the initiator and project developer. Hotel’s management is provided by Trend Hospitality, an important consulting company of hospitality industry in Romania. “Hotel Epoque is a new concept on the local market, it has its own business and operational philosophy and we need to employ marketing tactics that best suit this concept. Epoque is an independent boutique hotel and addresses a traveller niche that goes beyond the mainstream palette of serv-
ices in hospitality”, declared Antoni Kuhnen, General Manager Epoque Hotel. „Starting with the design and finishes Trend Hospitality thought of this concept to respond to special requests from the market: a solution for upscale free independent travellers, mostly business travellers, to align to their standards for comfort and for medium and long stay,” stated Lucian Marinescu, Senior Associate Trend Hospitality. • First hotel in Romania member of Worldhotels Starting November 2010, Epoque Hotel became a member of Worldhotels. A premiere on the hospitality market in Romania, this affiliation comes to strengthen the Epoque hotel’s position-
ing as landmark property on the upscale independent segment. Worldhotels member properties are defined by identity and distinction and cater to a specific tourist profile, the independent travellers who seek highly personalized services, unique features and strong local character. Worldhotels will provide an extensive range of sales, marketing, distribution and support services, driving results and international visibility for individual affiliated hotels while still preserving each property’s exceptional profile. The Worldhotels system is a fully integrated, state-of-the art reservation system that gives full rate parity over all reservation systems and GDS connected to Worldhotels. Epoque Hotel is the first unit on the Romanian market to use this system which will give the hotel full exposure on more than 100 systems in the world of hospitality and travel industry.
I ce Hotel 2 0 1 1 Lights and Stones The project Ice Hotel at Balea Lac became in only five years a success cultural and tourism concept of the Romanian private initiative. This year it will be dedicated to precious stones. ”Ice Hotel - Lights and Stones” will be also this winter the main attraction of Balea Lac area, while the preparations for 2010 -2011 season already have been launched. The Ice Hotel will be inaugurated on December 24, and will be open to the tourists until April 30, 2011. As a novelty of this year, the winter hotel is “released” in an extended formula, with 14 rooms. Fairytale rooms that will get the nuances and iridescence of the semi-precious and precious stones which are dedicated to: topaz, sapphire, emerald, diamond, amethyst, etc., composing a fairy spectacle of colors. The complex will also include an Ice Bar, an Ice Restaurant and an esplanade with an exhibition of ice sculptures. The total area of the hotel building will be of about 650 square meters, and each room is equipped with a double bed.
Respecting the tradition of the past editions, “Ice Hotel 2011” will organize a series of activities designed specifically to celebrate the winter holidays as well as new activities outside of holidays such as team-buildings. The tourists that will come this winter at Balea Lac will visit a new Ice Hotel, with expanded scale from previous seasons, and with many surprise elements. Ice Hotel enjoys a great success among the British, more tourists from this country having already reservations for this season. Seen initially as an eccentric curiosity reserved for tourists out of the box, Ice Hotel, the only hotel of its kind in South-Eastern Europe, is implementing a concept seen only in the Nordic countries of Europe, Canada or Japan and has a particular theme each year. Located in the heart of Fagaras Mountains, at 2.034 meters altitude, the Ice hotel has helped to develop tourism in the Balea Lac area and became one of the favorite tourist destinations of the Romanian winter. The success of this concept was based on both creativity and vision of its originators and the business strategy that simultaneously capitalized on the natural charm and leisure facilities offered by the area. Since its creation in 2005, by Klingeis Consulting company, the Ice Hotel has been designed as part of a real “ice complex”, close to the Ice Church, the esplanade of ice statues or the Winter Park, all building a travel brand for Balea Lac and Fagaras Mountains.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
7
cover story
Romanian Winter Traditions As soon as December comes, having just finished their autumn feasts related to the new harvest, most Romanians start looking forward to the winter holidays: mainly Christmas and New Year始s Eve. But we must always remember that the Christmas spirit does not involve just the food and drinks preparation, but also a spiritual preparation, a review of the past year and a list of wishes for the year to come. And, in Romania, many ancient traditions, carols and ritual dances which enrich by themselves the cold winter days.
n Romania, the winter holiday season is truly in full-swing from December 24 to January 7. Highlights include: Christmas Day, New Year and Epiphany, with their respective eves. The most important feature of these celebrations is their unique variety of colorful Romanian customs, traditions, and believes, of artistic, literary, musical, and other folklore events, which make the winter holidays some of the most original and
I 8
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
spectacular spiritual manifestations of the Romanian people. Traditionally, during the first hours after dark on Christmas’ Eve is the time for children to go caroling and the adults stay home to greet them. Children of all ages go from house to house singing Christmas carols, or through the streets on New Year’s Eve reciting congratulatory verse. The whole traditional village participates in waists, although mostly children practice this custom. As they go caroling from house to house, the children receive treats like candy, fruit, baked treats and sometimes even money in appreciation of their performance and as a sign of holiday good will. Other traditions spread allover Romania, with many variants, are the Star Carol, the Goat Tradition, Bear Custom, the Little Plough, or Sor-
cova. Some of them you may find even on the streets in Bucharest, interpreted by groups of young people coming from outside the city, or at the Peasant Museum or at the Village Museum. The winter holiday spirit usually mean family reunions, meeting with the loved ones, abundant feasts and lots of drinks, usually wine and various alcoholic drinks. Romanians are famous for being great gourmands but also religious persons. 40 days before the Christmas holidays and up until Christmas Eve, Christians are supposed to fast. Of course, winter traditions are more strictly carried on in rural areas, people in large cities“break their fast” without problems, during the fast period. We celebrate Christmas with great pomp, hope, joy, traditional dishes and delicious recipes. Christmas dinner it is “holy” for Romanians. Many foreigners come to
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
9
Romania to experience some of these traditions, especially in the rural areas (where people raise their own pigs). Even many Romanians living in the city (who usually buy their Christmas meals already prepared from the supermarket, and differentiate the various specialties only because their names are written on the labels) go to the countryside in this period of the year in to participate in the ceremonies organized around the Christmas dinner. Traditionally, the pig is killed on St. Ignatius’ day (December 20th), an important moment that anticipates Christmas. St. Ignatius’ day is dedicated to meat preparation and cure. Men and women begin to cut and prepare bacon, caltabosi (pork entrail sausages) and sangerete (pork sausage prepared with blood). In some households in
the Oltenia and Moldavia regions a large amount of meat is fried and salted and then preserved in melted lard. Housewives keep meat for sarmale (cabbage leaf rolls stuffed with minced meat), for the steaks, the fat for the cakes. The arrangements for the Christmas dinner start a few days in advance. In Moldavia, when Christmas is near, a small part of every dish is put in a bowl under the window, without having tasted them, because tradition says that, during the night, the fortune teller will come and will taste the dishes. In Bucovina and Moldavia, pieces of the cakes made at Christmas time are kept until spring, and then placed between the horns of the oxen when the ploughing starts. Dish preparation follows an ancient ritual: sausages, toba (boiled and pressed
pork stomach stuffed with meat, entrails and lard), racitura or piftie (pork jelly with garlic), sarmale, caltabosi and the cozonac (typical leaven cake) will be present on the Christmas table next to hot Romanian tuica (plum brandy) with whole peppers and sugar or sometimes heated red wine. Most women also add a Russian salad (salata de boeuf) to the traditional dishes. It has been assimilated as a traditional recipe. Nuts and eggs must not be missing from the Christmas table, with to their complex symbolism (time endurance, eternity), that most of us are hardly aware of. Sarmale are by far everyone’s favourites. They can be cooked in cabbage leaves (pickled or raw), in vine leaves, dock leaves, beet leaves and in spring, in certain areas, they are cooked in tile leaves – which must be very tender. The stuffing can be of any meat - pork traditionally, beef, sheep meat, rabbit meat, breast from any poultry, chopped together with the skin or even fish. If they are cooked in pickled cabbage leaves, no sauce is needed; if they are cooked in sweet cabbage leaves, the cabbage leaves must be infused in water with salt or with watered-down borsch and tomato slices or tomato juice is may be added through the roll beds in order to obtain a rather sour taste. The next day after the preparation, a bottle of old white wine, diluted by tomato juice, is poured over the sarmale and the pot is placed on the oven to boil and to toast a little. Ten minutes before serving two spoons of fresh butter are added. Sarmale can be also served with sour cream and, of course, hot polenta.
In spite of their uniqueness, traditional Romanian dishes are similar to other foods of European cuisine. Thus, sarmale can be found in the Greek or Lebanese tradition as “dolma”, but with a rice and spices stuffing. The caltabos is very similar to English sausages or Scottish “haggis”, only with more meat and spices. Because our traditional Christmas dishes are rather heavy, today there are also the variants of exotic recipes or lighter sweets recipes, especially for those who are on a diet. Turkey or chicken dishes instead of pork, seafood salad, spinach or melon recipes are some of the dishes suggested in order to stay fit and slim through and after the holidays. While the traditional Romanian cuisine recalls childhood Christmas, the exotic recipes bring originality and personalize Christmas dinner. More and more, modern people, always on hurry, do not have the time or the will to go back to traditions. For them, but also for the travelers passing Bucharest in this period of the year, almost all restaurants in town prepare special menus and even Christmas brunches. If you crave succulent steaks and tender filet grilled to perfection, bring a hearty appetite to one of this restaurants. If fresh, mouth-watering seafood, sautéed breast of chicken or a wonderfully exotic dishes is your heart’s desire, Chefs from all over the world, now Bucharest residents, will dazzle your palate. You can choose the place for a warm, intimate, friendly atmosphere that invites great times. All complemented by an awarding-winning wine list.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
11
Timberland Boots: leather, water proof, smart comfort Old Price:1061 Lei After Rebate: 816.20 Lei Timberland - Nautica Stores
Timberland Boots: leather, water proof, smart comfort Old Price:11211 Lei After Rebate: 784.40 Lei Timberland - Nautica Stores
Nautica Belt: leather, water proof, smart comfort Price: 360 Lei Timberland Nautica Stores
Fountain Pen Meisterstuck Montblanc Diamond Price: 3,750 Lei GMT Everytime, Mario Plaza Shopping Center
Nautica Jacket: water resistent, Old Price:1701 Lei After Rebate: 1190.70 Lei Timberland - Nautica Stores
12
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Maurice Lacroix Divina: Price: 13,750 Lei GMT Everytime, Mario Plaza Shopping Center
Longines Master Collection Chronograph: Price: 9,180 Lei GMT Everytime, Mario Plaza Shopping Center
Waxed and Smooth Leather Boots: Price: 699 Lei Geox and Otter Shops
Suede Wedge Ankle Boots: Price: 799 Lei Geox and Otter Shops
Timberland Sneakers: Old Price:805 Lei After Rebate: 563.50 Lei Nautica Trousers: Price:342 Lei Nautica Sweater: Price: 608 Lei Nautica Hand Bag: Price: 619 Lei Nautica Vest: Old Price:1,035 Lei After Rebate: 724.50 Lei Timberland - Nautica Stores
Smooth Leather Boots: Price: 699 Lei Geox and Otter Shops www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
13
New Novomatic Headquarters On November 3, Novomatic Group of Companies, the largest European group for integrated gaming, celebrated 20 years of existence on the Romanian market and also launched the new headquarters of the group in Romania. The event took place in the new headquarters building, located in Otopeni, 275277, Calea Bucureflti, (vis-à-vis the Otopeni airport). The event was attended by Franz Wohlfahrt, Novomatic General Director, Ryszard Presch, the operational director, the two directors of the companies representing Novomatic in Romania, Adrian Georgescu and Jan Zielinski, by Michael Schwarzinger, the Austrian Ambassador to Romania and the commercial counselor of the embassy of Austria, Rudolf Lukavsky. “By opening this new headquarters we underline the strategic importance of our group’s activities in Romania, where we have already invested over 65 million Euro. Our Group of Companies already operates here 70 gambling halls with a total of over 1,000 employees. Despite the economic situation in Europe we wish to lay the foundation for future growth through this investment,” stated Franz Wohlfahrt. The company chose Romania for a new headquarters in terms of the strategic position of the country in group’s development for the South-Eastern Europe. The new Novomatic headquarters created 80 new jobs and is positioned on a plot of 12,000 square meters. The total investment is 20 million Euro. The work to the 5,000 square meters
center began late 2008 and ended in March this year. The Novomatic Group of Companies has to date investments in Romania amounting to more than 65 Million Euros, both for the construction of the new headquarters as well as for the expansion of the network of clubs. The Novomatic Group of Companies was founded in 1980. It is now one of the largest integrated gaming groups in the international gaming industry and has affilliated companies in 22 countries around the world. The Novomatic group exports high-tech gaming equipment to over 62 countries and operates more than 145,000 gaming machines in more that 900 casinos and gaming clubs, ensuring jobs for 16,000 employees around the world. The company is one of the five biggest integrated gaming companies of the world and the No. 1 company in Europe, with a total turnover of 2,5 billion Euro in 2009. A
passion for the gaming industry, a steadfast focus on customer requirements as well as top-quality technological standards and an active awareness of its social responsibilities have led to the strategic expansion of the Novomatic group throughout Europe and into selected international territories.In the future the group intends to strengthen its position as the leading producer of gaming equipment in Europe and to become the largest gaming corporation in the world. Novomatic first entered the Romanian market in 1990 and from 2000 has been represented by Intertop company, as a gaming and sportsbetting organizer in the Admiral clubs, and since 2005 by Novo Invest Co., a company which develops the renting of Novomatic gaming equipment. In 2009 T.I.M.A.X. has joined the group with 50 more locations. Intertop runs over 70 gaming clubs, both in Bucharest as well as throughout the country, and under the Admiral brand operates over 2,000 gaming machines in its own clubs. Novo Invest Co. has to date over 1,500 gaming machines rented. The three Novomatic Group representatives secure more than 1,000 jobs. For the future, the three Novomatic Group representatives in Romania are committed to strengthen their leading position, both in the operation field, as well as for renting and selling of the electronic gaming equipments. Intertop is the first gaming operator in Romania which, with the support of the Novomatic Group “know how”, has established the player’s responsibility program.
Over 30 000 Euro for Children Smiles CliniClowns Romania and Royal Netherlands Embassy in Bucharest, with the support of the Romanian - Dutch Chamber of Commerce and Industry held on November 24, at Casa Vernescu, the Charity Gala Dinner. The event was addressed to Dutch companies operating on the Romanian market, and to big investors who wished to support through their participation CliniClowns foundation activity. Together with the Netherlands ambassador, Tanya van Gool, the guests enjoyed a menu designed specifically for this event by Casa Vernescu, have listened to a recital given by Miki and admired dance moments of the world champion children team from club Pigmalyon. The maximum attraction of the evening was a cooking demonstration attended by Joseph Hadad, former chef of Madonna and Robert De Niro and special guest, chef Henk’s Savelberg from Netherlands, who holds a Michelin star. The two fabulous products that resulted from cooking shows were auctioned. Ex football player Gica Popescu was the most generous participant, and won for his wife Joseph Hadad’s plateau, paying 1,000 Euros. Savelberg’s salad was a subject of dispute between representatives of UTI and Eureko Group, the winner being Eureko for another 1,200 Euros. “CliniClowns Foundation’s mission is to improve both hospitalized children in Romania and their families by bringing smile on their faces, to overcome the suffering caused by consultations and sometimes painful medical treatments. The generosity of the companies present at the Gala Charity Dinner translates to 10,000 Euros, money that provides the foundation work for the next two years,” told us Martin Schiere, executive director CliniClowns Romania. Eureko Group, the official sponsor of the Foundation’s charity dinner offered at the end a check worth 18,000 Euros. “Each of us
14
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
had at one time a sick child. So I learned to cherish every smile, every gesture indicating a state well. Eureko supports the mission of CliniClowns Romania and the money raised will be used to extend the smile therapy in Timisoara,” stated Radu Craciun Eureko Chief Investment Officer. The event was attended by: UTI Group, ING Bank, Deloitte, Vodafone, KPMG, Heineken, TMF Group, Lugera & Makler, Den Braven, GDF Suez, UPC, Piperea & Associates, TNT, Reijers Consulting, Certinvest, Paralela 45, ES Elektro, Philips, Wagner House, Golden Blitz Taxi, Notary Juliana Sparks, Rabobank and Casa Vernescu. Tanya van Goole, the Netherlands ambassador in Bucharest, urged the Dutch companies from Romania to get involved in CSR activities.
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
VISAS
Police - Like all cities, Bucharest too has dangerous
EU and American citizens with a valid passport can visit for 90 days with no visa requirement. All other visitors will need a visa. Visas should be obtained prior to the arrival, from Romanian Diplomatic Missions’Offices in your country. A list of the nations for which a Romanian visa is required can be found at www.mae.ro. Three day transit visa: US$ 15/25. One entry visa: US$ 25, multiple entry visa US$ 60. For a few exceptional situations a 10-day special visa can be obtained at customs, entering Romania. For visa extensions and other information go to the passport office at 29, Nicolae Iorga St., near Piata Romana.
spots; however, it is considered a safe city in European terms. The city center is usually safe, but at night be careful in parks and peripheral areas. Emergency Police number: 955;
General Emergency number: 112 for Police, Ambulance & Fire Department Health Services - Dial 9611 for the ambulance public non-stop service. There are also private ambulance services: dial for Puls 9737 or 021-243-1333, for Doris 978 or 021-335-5065, for SOS Medical and Ambulance Services 9761 or 0722-333-000, for Village Medical Clinic Ambulance 0723-343-219.
TELEPHONES
PRIVATE CLINICS & EMERGENCY HOSPITALS
The payphones in the city are phone card operated. When calling into Romania, you need to dial the international access code (00), country’s code (40), the city code (without the initial 0 - 021 for Bucharest), then the subscriber’s number. When dialling a mobile number from abroad, the initial 0 is also dropped. Romanian city codes (selected): Brasov (0268), Constanta (0241), Bucharest (021), Cluj (0264), Sibiu (0269), Sinaia (0244), Timisoara (0256). International country codes (selected): Australia (61), Austria (43), Belgium (32), Canada/US (1), Danmark (45), France (33), Germany (49), Greece (30), Hungary (36), Irealand (353), Israel (972), Italy (39), Japan (81), Moldova (373), Netherlands (31), Poland (48), Romania (40), Russia (7), Spain (34),
Ph. 021-327-1188 ; • 2, Staicovici St, Opera Center. Ph 021-412-0110 • 12, G Enescu St, Ph. 021-316-5876/77/78
TRANSLATORS
NON-STOP PHARMACIES
Translingua: 306, Calea Mosilor, Bl. 56A, Ap. 11 Ph.: 021-211-70-46, 0722-250-908; Fax: 021-211-70-46. www.translingua.ro Prosper - ASE Language Centre: 2, Calea Grivitei St., 2nd floor, room 4211; Ph./Fax: 021-211-78-00. www.prosper.ro
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 The Central Post Office is at 10, Matei Millo St. (near the Phone Company building on Calea Victoriei). www.posta-romana.ro Open: 7:30-20:00. Closed Sunday.
MONEY Money can be exchanged at banks, hotels and private offices (Casa de schimb valutar). There can be major differences in rates, especially between the banks and the private exchange offices. Changing money in the street is illegal and inadvisable. Bank notes are in the following denominations: LEI 1,00; 5,00; 10,00; 50,00; 100,00 and 500;00. Coins: Bani 1; 5; 10; 50. Banks are open weekdays from 8:30 to noon and from 14:00 to 16:00. Bucuresti what, where, when
Emergency Clinic Hospital: 8, Calea Floreasca, Ph. 021-317-0171; 021-317-0121 Medico Clinique: 9, Visarion St., Ph. 021-650-7060, 021-315-5426 /27 www.medico.ro Medicover Medical: Centre96, Calea Plevnei, Ph. 021-310-4410 Ophthalmology Emergency Clinic Hospital: 1, Piata Lahovari, Ph. 021-319-2753
Unirea Medical Center: • 57, Unirii Blvd,
There is no problem with finding a pharmacy in your neighborhood, no matter where you are in Bucharest. Here are some pharmacies with nonstop service: Farmacia Verde: 15, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph. 021-230-1451 Sensiblu: 65, Calea Dorobantlor, Ph. 021-211-1127, Farmadex: 19, N Titulescu Blvd, Ph. 0744-650-078 MedFARM: 34, I.C. Bratianu Blvd, Ph. 021-315-2309
DENTISTS Alpha Dent Company: 300, Calea Calarasilor St., Ph. 021-321-3099
POST OFFICES
16
Biomedica International: 42 Eminescu St., Ph. 021-230-8001
Dent Elysee: 51, J.L. Calderon St., Ph. 021-312-3300; 0723-380-498 Dent Estet: 15, Aviatorilor Blvd. Ph. 021-222-1108 7, G. Alexandrescu St, Ph. 0723-602-020
HEALTH CLUBS & SPA BUCHAREST FitClub: With customized fitness routines and body rituals, FitClub invites guests to indulge in a new wellness dimension. For details and advice on customized packages, please call us at 021201 5077. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, 2nd floor, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Bucharest
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Fit & Fun Club: The club is complimentary to all hotel guests and offers the possibility to relax and feel in perfect shape at the same time. You can enjoy the swimming pool & whirlpool, sauna, Jacuzzi, or be active and try the fully equipped gymnasium or the tennis courts. Personal trainer available for a monthly fee. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 08.00 – 23.00. Diplomatilor Club: 1, Minovici Alley. Ph.: 021-222-8497; 0722-328-758. Open: daily 9:00 - 18:00 Eden Spa: 39, Primaverii Blvd., Ph.: 021-316-8148; 0721-321-294. Open: Mon - Fri 9:00 - 21:00 . Sat 9:00 - 18:00 Grand Hotel Continental Spa: The Spa is a calm and peaceful retreat with relaxation facilities including a maxi jacuzzi, massage salons and sauna, providing an extensive range of body beauty and care treatments. Indulge yourself in one of these therapies and renew your energy. You will enjoy fitness and aerobic sessions with guidance from personal trainers available by appointment. You are kindly asked to check the availability of this service with the Reception. C.C. accepted. Location: Basement. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 037-201-0300. Open: Mon.- Sat. – 07:00 –21:00. Hilton Health Club: 1-3, Episcopiei St. Athénée Palace Bucharest Hilton; Ph.: 021-303-3777 ext.6808 Open: Mon-Fri 6:30 - 22:00. Sat-Sun 8:00 - 21:00 InterContinental Health Club: Public access on the 22nd floor. Full range of facilities. Sauna, massage, solarium, fitness centre, hexagonal swimming pool. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4 Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., InterContinental Hotel, Ph.: 021-310-2020, Open:06.00 - 22.00
Magnolia Spa: 20, Sperantei St.
AIRPORTS
Ph.: 021-311-2779; Open: Tue - Fri 12:30 - 20:00 Sat: 10:30 - 18:00; Sun - Mon closed “Majestic”Wellness Club: Thoughtfully designed facilities for the benefit and convenience of the Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel guests. The Majestic Wellness Club includes: Swimming Pool, Jacuzzi, Cardio & Fitness Center, Sauna, Massage. Aerobic, Step, Tae-bo, Body-flex; Aqua Gym; Swimming lessons. 38-40, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: (021) 310 27 20; Fax: (021) 310 27 99 Open: daily 07:00 – 21:30.
Henri Coanda International Airport: – for interna-
Novotel Bucarest City Centre Wellness Centre: After a busy day you relax and unwind in the Wellness Centre situated on the mezzanine floor. Indoor swimming pool with artificial waves, fitness centre, gym, massage, hammam and Power Plate are at your disposal. Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 61. Open daily: 06:00 - 22:00. Ramada Plaza Hotel: 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-549-2000; Fax: 021-549-2330; Open: Tue-Sun 10:00 - 22:00 Sports Club 2000: 3-11, Gabriela Szabo St. Tennis, Swimming, Fitness Ph.: 021-434-3572; Kineto & Physiotherapy Ph.: 0723-573-028 Beauty Center Ph.: 021-434-1741 Open: Mon-Sun 08:00 - 22:00 World Class Health Academy: • 90, Calea 13 Septembrie - JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel Ph.: 021-403-0900/01; 0730-848-707 Open: weekdays 6:00 - 23:00, weekends 8:00 - 21:00 • 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-313-1104 • 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.: 0723-691-544
tional and domestic flights. Ph.: Switchboard: (+4021) 204-1000 Customs: ext.: 1514 ; Lost luggage: ext. 1043 Airport Police: ext.: 1523 Aurel Vlaicu Airport (Baneasa): – for domestic and international flights. Ph.: (+4021) 9371, 021-232-0020 ext.: 131.
Transportation to/from Henri Coanda Airport: RATB: City Bus #783 Connecting Otopeni to the City center. Important stops: Pullman Hotel, Piata Victoriei, Piata Romana, Piata Unirii.
TAXI SERVICES Airport taxis are available at the arrivals hall but they may charge you 3 to 10 times as much as a Bucharest regular taxi. Euro Fly Taxi is the official airport taxi, and they are queued outside Henri Coanda Airrivals terminal. If not, call 9440. The average price from Haenri Coanda Airport to Bucharest: 15 Euros.
CITY TAXI SERVICES You can olso call a city taxi by phoning one of these numbers: 9427, 9439, 9451, 9425, 9435, 9444, 9422. Prices vary from one taxi company to another.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Cornu; Ph./fax: 0244-367-053. Open: 8:00 - 22:00
Relatively safe and efficient, Bucharest’s public transport system covers the entire city with buses, tramways, trolleys and metro (subway) services, operating from 5 a.m. to midnight. Tickets and magnetic cards can be bought at RATB kiosks, located on the main thoroughfares in the city, for ground transportation, and in every Metro station for the underground network. Bus, Tram, Trolleys – LEI 1,30 per ticket, LEI 8,00 for one-day pass, LEI 50,00 for a monthly pass. EXPRESS buses use a magnetic card. Metro – LEI 2,20 for two-fare pass, LEI 8,00 for ten-fare pass, LEI 4,00 for one-day pass, LEI 23,00 - for a monthly passcard.
DRIVING IN ROMANIA
SHOW BIZ
The legal speed limit is 50 km/hr in cities, 90 km/hr outside the city and 120 km/hr on highways. Driving above these limits will result in fines with the possibility of losing your license. Most international driving licenses are accepted in Romania, but check with the rental company to be sure. Some rental car companies also provide the service of hiring a car with a driver. A blood alcohol level of any kind is not tolerated, and talking on a cell phone while driving is also prohibited.
Concerts usually start around 6 pm except for Opera and Musical Comedy matinees which start around 11 am. The Music University of Bucharest presents mostly classic recitals which are usually free of charge. The Opera has an extensive repertoire and enjoys international renown. The Athenaeum hosts concerts featuring the Romanian National and Inter-national Philharmonic Orchestras. The Romanian Radio Society organizes concerts in its two halls starting at 7 pm; Generally, individual tickets for opera shows and classic music concerts range between 5 - 15 RON. In Bucharest, cinemas change program every Friday. Movies are shown in their original language with Romanian subtitles. The majority of cinemas show American movies, but one can also find European movies at the French Institute Cinema or the Cinemateca. The row and set number is indicated on your ticket or separate stub. Ticket prices vary from Lei 5 - 35 RON
PRAHOVA COUNTY Pro Estetica Sana Bali Spa: 349, Stadionului St.,
RENT A CAR Cars can be rented in a variety of places. Several offices are available in the Arrivals Hall at the Otopeni International Airport and most upscale hotels. Major cities in Romania are also covered for both pick-up and collection services. Active Rent a Car: Reservations: Ph.: 0727-644-644 www.active-rentacar.ro Avis: Reservations: Ph.: 021-210-4344, 021-210-4345; Fax: 021-210-6912. www.avis.ro; reservations@avis.ro Bavaria Rent a Car: Reservations: Ph.: 021-201-4534; 0730-333-705. www.bavariarent.ro
Head Office: Ph.: 021-312-9857; 0744-586-724; 0744-638-292. Fax: 021-312-9982. www.compact-rentacar.ro Compact Premium: Head Office: Ph.:021- 312-9857; 0744-586-724; 0744-638-292. Fax: 021-312-9982. www.compact-rentacar.ro
Reservations: Ph.: 021-335-7533; Fax:021-335-7532 reservations@hertz.com.ro; www.hertz.com.ro
OPERA & CONCERTS Atheneul Roman: 6 D 1, Franklin St. Ph.: 021-315-6875; 021-315-2567 National Opera: 7 D 70-72, Mihail Kogalniceanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-6980; 021-311-5254 Sala Radio (Romanian Radio Society):
6C
60-64, G-ral Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-303-1153; 021-314-7770. Sala Palatului: 6 D 1, Cretulescu St. Ph.: 021-315-9710 / ext. 761; 021-315-7372
Teatrul National de Opereta “Ion Dacian”:
7D
2, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-313-6348.
George Enescu Philharmonic: 6 D 1-3, Franklin St. Ph: 021-315-0024; Box Office: 021-315-6875
MUSEUMS Bucharest is a city of history and arts. It probably has more museums per capita than any other capital in the world. Below you’ll find a list of selected museums. Usually there is a nominal entrance fee. Multi-lingual guides are typically available on request at no charge. Most museums are closed on Mondays.
National Museum of Art of Romania:
6D
49-53, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-314 81 19; 021-313 30 30. Visiting hours: Wednesday-Sunday page 16
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
17
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:
6D
111, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021- 211.17.49, 021- 212.96.41. Visiting hours: Saturday- Wednesday 11.00 –19.00 (May-September); 10.00 – 18.00 (October-April); Closed: Thursday, Friday, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 25th December. Founded in 1978, the museum houses previously private collections that have been donated to the state in the course of time. They mirror accurately the development of Romanian art in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries giving a fair view of the history of taste and of the economic power of native Romanian collectors. European as well as Oriental art works are also present
The Museum of Bucharest City:
7D
2, I.C. Bratianu Blvd. Ph: 021-31025.62, 021-3156858. Open daily 10.00 18.00, Closed: Monday and Tuesday. In the heart of the Capital, very close to the University Square, the outstanding building of Sutu Palace, a monument dating back to 1838, hosts this Museum of Bucharest City's History. You will find here collections of archaeology, numismatics, photography, maps, documents, paintings, drawings, funeral stones, coats of arms, furniture, uniforms, flags, costumes and many others.
National Cotroceni Museum:
7A
1, Geniului Blvd. Ph. 021-430-4485. Open daily 9:30–17:30 ; closed Monday.Reconstructing the atmosphere of the Mediavale Cotroceni Church (17th Century) and the old Royal Residence of King Ferdinand, Cotroceni Museum is a valuable architectural and historic site. Works of art for sale.
“George Enescu” Museum:
6D
141, Calea Victoriei. Ph. 021-212-9649. Open daily 10:00–17:00; closed Monday. Houses collections illustrating the history of music composition and documents from the life of eminent Romanian musician and composer George Enescu.
The Observatory:
5D
21, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Ph.: 021-212-9644. It includes both a science fiction and an astronomic club. This small museum of Romanian history of astronomy is worth visiting.
CINEMAS Cinema City: 4, Vasile Milea Blvd., AFI Palace Cotroceni Ph.: 021-407-0000 Cinema City Sun Plaza: 391, Calea Vacaresti, Sun Plaza Ph.: 021-386-0600 CinemaPro: 3, Ion Ghica St. Ph.: 031-824-1360 Cinemateca: • Eforie Hall: 2, Eforie St. Ph.: 021313-0483; • Union Hall: 21, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-9289 Corso: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-1334 Cityplex: City Mall, 3rd floor; 2, Oltenitei Ave. Ph.: 021-319-8226 Europa: 127, Calea Mosilor Ph.: 021-314-2714 Festival: 34, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-6384 French Institute “Elvira Popescu”: 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9930/0224 Glendale Studio: 9, Cotroceni Ave. Ph.: 021-316-3286
18
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Gloria: 6, Bucovina St. Ph.: 021-324-4675 Hollywood Multiplex: 55-59, Calea Vitan, Bucuresti Mall Ph.: 021-327-7020/22 The Light Cinema: 151-171, Progresului Ave., Liberty Center Ph.: 021-369-9740, 021-369-9797 Movieplex Cinema: 26, Timisoara Blvd., Plaza Romania; Ph.: 021-407-8300 NCRR: 3, Kiseleff Ave., the National Museum of Romanian Peasant Ph.: 021-317-9660 Patria: 12-14, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9266 Scala: 2-4, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6708 Studio: 29, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-5526
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.
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 8-10, Tudor Arghezi St. Ph. 021-311-97-62; 021-311-97-82. Fax: 021-312-05-85; Open Mon - Thu 10-18, Fri 10-15. Free lending library program. German language courses available. L'Institut Français (French Institute) 6 E 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph. 021-316-38-36; 021-316-02-24. Fax: 021-316-02-25; Open 10-20.30, Fri 10-14. Sat, Sun Closed. Theatre & film hall Elvire Popesco. Exhibition hall. Huge books, magazines, CDs and videotapes libraries. Internet café. French bistro. Language courses available. Instituto Cervantes (Spanish Institute) 12, Serghiescu St. Ph. 021-210-27-37; 021-210-47-27; 0921-210-6777; Fax: 021-210-77-67; Open Mon-Fri 09-19. Sat & Sun closed. Library & Spanish language courses available
BUCHAREST JEWISH COMMUNITY (CEB) The Great Synagogue: 11, Vasile Adamache St., sector 3; It was built during 1845 -1846 by the Ashkenazi Polish-Jewish community. Since 1992, the Great Synagogue hosts the exhibition The Memorial of Jewish Martyrs. Visiting hours: Mon – Thu 8:30 – 15:00, Fri & Sun 8:30 – 13:00. Prayer Hours: Morning Prayer Sun - Fri 8:00, Evening Prayer Sun - Fri 19:00, Sat Morning Prayer 9:30. The Jewish Museum: 3, Mamulari St., sector 3; Located in the former Templul Unirea Sfânta (United Holy Temple) synagogue which survived both World War II and Nicolae Ceausescu unscathed. Displays a collection of books written, published, illustrated, or translated by Romanian Jews, an archive of the history of Romanian Jewry, a collection of paintings of and by Romanian Jews that, while relatively small, consists of works of a caliber worthy of a major art museum. Visiting hours: Mon - Thu 9:00 – 14:00, Fri 9:00 – 12:00, Sun 9:00 – 13:00. Choral Temple: 9-11, Sfanta Vineri St., sector 3; Currently closed to visitors and services due to heavy renovation works. Bucharest Jewish Community: 9-11, Sfanta Vineri St., Sector 3; For information please contact the office of the president, Erwin Simsensohn. Ph.: 021.313.1782, e-mail erwin@jewish.ro
HOTELS See our list featuring a growing number of hotels in Bucharest, from top-of-the-line, five-star international hotels to local Bed & Breakfasts. All telephone numbers are in area code 021 (+4021 if calling from abroad). See map (page 22) for the letter/number coordinates.
ALEXANDER ##### 1/VI, Pipera Blvd. ph: +40-21-569-5120; fax:+40-21-569-5119
AMBASADOR ### 6 D : 8-10, Magheru Blvd. ph: +40-21-315-9080; fax:+40-21-312-3595
December 2010 - January 2011
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Feel the Rhythm! There are an increasing amount of foreign people arriving in Bucharest to simply have fun and enjoy themselves. Many European travellers can testify that some of the greatest and cheapest nights can be had here. Lipscani, the historic centre of the town has witnessed a recent revival with many of the older clubs being refurbished or completely rebuilt. Many of these new venues would not seem out of place in Paris or London. Like the most International cities, Bucharest has a good selection of bars, clubs, cafes, theatres, casinos and many other places of entertainment. Other Bucharest districts are also quite animated, with lots of people on the street late into the night. If you want to have a perfect night, you can start with a romantic dinner in one of the restaurants around the old centre. “Caru` cu bere”, for instance, is one of the most representative restaurants of our capital, it is a true living legend and also one of the oldest beer houses in Bucharest. It was opened for the first time in 1879 and it is one of the few places in Bucharest where it seems that nothing has changed. After that, you can continue with a show or play at Rapsodia Theatre. Then… enjoy your night in a club or in a bar with your friends. There is a wide variety of bars and pubs scattered all over the city and it is not always easy to choose between Irish, English, Latino or the more exotic among the range of watering holes available. There are also traditional Romanian bars and restaurants. Cyber cafes are becoming ever more popular in Bucharest and these are generally open quite late. There are plenty of nightclubs catering for all tastes and smart dress page IV
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
I
Copenhagen, Geneva or Bucharest An Expat's Point of View Although there are some important aspects that have not changed in the Romanian Capital in the last years (sidewalks are still not clean, there are no bicycle tracks, there isn't enough lighting on the streets, nor enough parking places), Bucharest occupies the 14th place among the top of European cities which are preferred by the citizens of other countries who live there, as Roxana Lupu tells in her article in “Evenimentul Zilei”, titled “The Capital, More and More Loved by Expats”. The city is more and more appreciated thanks to the quality of security, housing and health and this is the reason why expats want to work and even settle here, the same thing being true for another East-European city, Bratislava, the Capital of Slovakia, as shown in a study by ECA International, a Human Resource company. “There are better restaurants, more concerts by international stars, more shopping. Life has improved considerably”, says Tom Murray, who came to Romania 15 years ago and has become a successful businessmanin the textile industry. He also believes that, even if prices have gone up a lot recently, life is still cheaper here than it is in Western Europe or in the United States, and Bucharest has the charm of a European Capital. Nevertheless, in Tom's opinion the cost of basic goods is a major problem. The things used by the middle class now carry the price of luxury goods, and the cost of utilities has increased dramatically.
II
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
For the Romanians, as well as for the expats, the quality of life depends on the wages they earn. If the wage is one of thousands of Euros per month, they can say they live well, but if it is a middle income one, even an expat faces the tough realities of daily life, thinks Tom: “If you have money, you can do anything you want in Bucharest: you hire people to manage your daily business, you eat in
the best restaurants, you travel overseas or to other Romanian cities on weekends.” Nevertheless, he thinks that Bucharest cannot be considered the most sophisticated European Capital yet. Another businessman, Christopher Troxler, who has lived in Romania for five years, fell in love with Bucharest as soon as he got here. “It was love at first sight”, he says. “I simply liked the atmosphere.” Copenhagen, the Capital of Denmark, holds the first place among the preferences of expats, shows the study mentioned above. In the top ten places are cities in Switzerland and Germany, such as Geneva, Basel and Bern, and respectively Dusseldorf, Bonn and Munich. The expats coming from Asia have their own top list: Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra, in Australia, as well as two regions, from Japan, Kobe and Yokohama. Hong Kong and Shanghai, in China, occupy places 15 and 78, respectively. In the Middle East, expats prefer Manama, the Capital of Bahrein, and Dubai and Muscat. Bagdad, the Iraqui Capital, holds the last place in the world, number 300, because of the precarious security level.
MASSAGE: Relaxation & Healing
Massage involves systematic stroking, rubbing and kneading of the soft tissues of the body in an effort to induce a state of total relaxation. Despite some misconceptions, massage has become more accepted as a means to relieve minor physical problems. Although massage has sometimes been discredited, by advocates of modern medicine, it has recently been growing in acceptance. Massage has been shown to help maintain stability and enhance performance in nearly all of the body's major systems. The muscular, skeletal, circulatory, nervous and respiratory systems can be positively affected by massage. The theory behind massage is the relief of muscle tension, and that relaxation of the body will allow for a faster healing process. Massage can increase and improve circulation to damaged tissue areas. People who play sports know that it is important to stretch and relax muscles for peak performance, and the same idea underlies the massage process. Perhaps the greatest benefit of massage, as any amateur can confirm, is the relaxing effect it can have on tense muscles. The smooth stroking motions and the kneading of muscles relieves tension, loosens joints and improves circulation, all of which are beneficial for good health. Of course it is recommended that people not replace necessary medical treatment with a massage. Sometimes medical conditions that could easily be cured by a simple medical treatment are identified as a simple tight muscle or something similar. Although massage does have positive medical benefits, in most cases it is not a replacement for modern medicine. The history of massage dates back almost as far as recorded history. For thousands of years some form of massage or the “laying on of hands� has been used to helpl the sick. For the ancient Greeks and Romans, massage was one of the principal methods of healing and relieving pain. Generally, if you are in good health and just feeling a little tense, a massage may be a good way to go.. www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
III
page I
is not necessary, jeans are acceptable. Clubs and bars serve alcohol until 5 or 6 in the morning and the minimum age for drinking is 18. Despite much recent renovation a real sense of history remains, many of the older inns or taverns have become pubs and clubs, but walking around this area can still transport you into the past, to the true beginnings of the city and its nickname, ‘Little Paris’. Now you will find here coffee shops, restaurants and bars where you can drink a hot tea or a good coffee. You can choose a bar where you will listen to traditional Romanian singers like Maria Tanase. The atmosphere is quite calm here in the night, perfect for relaxing with friends. As far as clubs are concerned, from electro to live rock, you will find anything you wish in Bucharest! They are the best and their
IV
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
secret is that they never let you stop dancing, all night you feel so good that you believe you are the greatest dancer in the world. When you visit Bucharest to find some fun, you will feel an explosion of happiness, everyone is friendly because everyone is dancing with a beer in their hand. The live music increases your adrenaline, the guitars, the amplifiers, the singer, all these go together to entice you to the dance floor. Techno, House, Garage and Latino are the popular sounds of Bucharest and, to a lesser extent, Hip Hop and Drum and Bass. For a special atmosphere you can choose a club located in an old building, like the ancient residence of Princess Margareta which is completely rearranged with a futurist design, the perfect location for a high level of comfort and relaxation (Pat Club - “pat” means “bed” in Romanian).
ANGELO AIRPORTHOTEL BUCHAREST : 283, Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. ph: +40-21-203-6500; fax: +40-21-203-6530
ARMONIA
7E
: 112, Calea Mosilor,
ph: +40-21-312-0477; fax: +40-21-312-0406.
ATHENÉE PALACE HILTON BUCHAREST 6 D : 1-3, Episcopiei St. ph: +40-21-303-3777; fax: +40-21-315-2121.
BANAT
7 E 5, Piata Rosetti ph: +40-21-312-5784; fax: +40-21-312-6547.
BUCHAREST CITY HOTEL
8F :
3A, Nerva Traian St. ph: +40-21-200-6270; fax: +40-21-200-6273
CAPITOL 7 D : 29, Calea Victoriei ph: +40-21-313-9440; fax: +40-21-312-4169 CAROL PARC HOTEL
9 D : 23-25, Aleea
Suter , ph: +40-21-336-3377; fax: +40-21-336-3736
CARO
2 E : 164A, Barbu Vacarescu St. ph: +40-21-208-6100; fax: +40-21-208-6101;
CASA CAPSA
7D
: 36, Calea Victoriei
ph: +40-21-313-4038
CASA VICTOR 4 C : 44, Emanoil Porumbaru St. ph: +40-21-222-5723, +40-21-222-9626 fax: +40-21-222-9436 CENTRE VILLE APARTHOTEL
6D:
George Enescu St. and Luterana St. crossing ph: +40-21-305-3666; fax: +40-21-312-0927
CENTRAL
7 D : 13, Brezoianu St, ph/fax: +40-21-315-5636/37.
CLASS
1B
: 30A, Gârlei St. ph: +40-21-233-2814; fax: +40-21-233-2886
CONFORT OTOPENI : 255A, Calea Bucuresti ph: +40-21-350-4110 - 16; fax: +40-21-350-4117 - 18.
CONFORT TRAIAN
7F
: 55, Traian St. ph.: +40-21-308-3153/4; fax: +40-21-308-3155.
CROWNE PLAZA
2 A 1, Poligrafiei St. ph.: +40-21-224-0034; fax: +40-21-318-1302
DALIN
9 D 70-72, Marasesti Blvd. ph.: +40-21-335-6306; fax: +40-21-336-6284
DALIN CENTER
7F
: 33A, Soseaua Stefan cel
Mare. ph.: +40-21-211-0070 6 D : 33, Dacia Blvd, ph: +40-21-317-4186/87/88; fax: +40-21-317-4189.
DUKE HHH EPOQUE
6C
17C, Aurora Alley: ph: +40-21-312-3232;
EURO HOTELS INTERNATIONAL
6B
4, Ghe. Polizu St. ph: +40-21-316-88-39; fax: +40-21-316-8360
EURO HOTELS INT’L TRIUMF 4 B : 32-34, Maresal Averescu Blvd. ph: +40-21-224-5496; fax: +40-21-224-5554 ERBAS
1+2D
: 27, Av. Alex Serbanescu St., ph: +40-21-232-6856, +40-21-232-6857. fax: +40-21-232-6527.
GOLDEN TULIP BUCHAREST
6C
166, Calea Victoriei. ph: +40-21-212-5558; fax: +40-21-212-5121 page 21
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
19
Must See in Bucharest Here is a selection of the most representative landmarks of Bucharest which are a must to see during your stay in the city. You will see these and much more on one of our regularly scheduled or customized tours while benefitting from the expertise and knowledge of our experienced licensed guides. For more information please see the ads inside the magazine.
The Cotroceni Palace: is a part of the Cotroceni National Museum. The Cotroceni Palace, church and monastery reflect a three-century old history that interweaves political, military, diplomatic, religious and cultural aspects, with the general evolution of Romanian society. The palace was built in the 17th century by the Prince Serban Cantacuzino. The Cotroceni National Museum exhibits a rich range of objects of art, illustrative of the Romanian decorative art. The Cantacuzino space is most suitable for organizing presentations of old art objects that can only outline the exceptional artistic accomplishments of a distant epoch. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (By appointment only)
The Parliament Palace: is the second largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon) in terms of all-out surface: 330,000 m2. It was built between 1984 and 1989 by a team of architects led by Anca Petrescu. and was destined for the members of the Communist Party; Besides offices, Ceausescu planned to make personal living places, so the Palace's surface would have been bigger. The building currently houses Romania's Parliament. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (By appointment only)
page 22
20
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
GOLDEN TULIP TIMES 7 G : 19, Decebal Blvd. ph: +40-21-316 6516; fax: +40-21-316-6517 GRAFFITI
5 D : 25 Albac St.,
ph./fax: +40-21-231-6006.
GRAND HOTEL CONTINENTAL
7D
:
56, Calea Victoriei ph.: +40-372-010-300; fax: +40-372-010 301.
HOWARD JOHNSON GRAND PLAZA HOTEL 6 D 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor, ph: +40-21-201-5000; fax: +40-21-201-1888.
MARSHAL
7E : 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St. ph: +40-21-314-0880; fax: +40-21-314-0888
RAMADA MAJESTIC BUCHAREST 7 D :
MINERVA
RAMADA PLAZA BUCHAREST 2 B : 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd., ph: +40-21-549-3000; fax: +40-21-549-3001 RAZVAN 7 F : 159, Calea Calarasilor, ph: +40-21-320-0173 / 83; fax: +40-21-322-0811 REMBRANDT 7 D : 11 Smardan St., ph/fax: +40-21-313-9315, +40-21-313-9316. RESIDENCE 4 B : 19, Clucerului St., ph: +40-21-223-1978; fax: +40-21-222-9046 RIN OTOPENI : 255A, Calea Bucuresti, ph: +40-21-350-4110/16; fax: +40-21-350-4117/18 RIN GRAND : 7D, Soseaua Vitan-Barzesti ph: +40-31-106-1111; 0731-111-000 SAMAA 3 A : 319C, Ion Mihalache Blvd., ph: +40-21-224-0282/83; fax: +40-21-224-0284
38-40, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-310-2715, +40-21-312-1967; fax: +40-21-310-2799
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
HELLO HOTELS
37B, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-308-8500; fax: +40-21-308-8501
HERASTRAU
ph: +40-21-300-0545; fax: +40-21-317-9154
6 B : 143, Calea Grivitei, ph: +40-372-121-800; fax: +40-372-121-801 reservation: +40-372-716-464 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
INTERCONTINENTAL
7D:
4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., ph: +40-21-310-2020; fax: +40-21-312-0486.
JW MARRIOTT BUCHAREST GRAND HOTEL 8 B : 90, Calea 13 Septembrie, ph: +40-21-403-1012; fax: +40-21-403-1001.
LEV OR
6 C : 25, Occidentului St.,
ph: +40-21-210-1274; fax: +40-21-319-0910.
NH BUCHAREST
7D
8 E : 21, Mircea Voda Blvd.,
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
SIQUA 7C : 59A, Calea Plevnei, ph: +40-21-319-5160; 319-5161; fax: +40-21-319-5162 STARLIGHT SUITE HOTELS
RADISSON BLU 6 D 63-81, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-311-9000; fax: +40-21-313-9000
RAMADA BUCHAREST PARC
TEMPO 7E : 19, Armand Calinescu St., ph: +40-21-310-1216; fax: +40-21-310-1241
2A:
3-5 Poligrafiei Blvd. ph: +40-21-549-2000; fax: +40-21-549-2330
RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES BUCHAREST NORTH 2 C : 44A, Daniel Danielopolu St., ph: +40-21-233-5000; fax: +40-21-233-5001;
5D:
89-97, Grigore Alexandrescu St., ph/fax: +40-21-211-3413 / 14
TRIANON 9, Grigore Cobalcescu St., ph: +40-21-311-4927; fax: +40-21-316-2281 VENEZIA
7 C : 2, Pompiliu Eliade St.,
ph: +40-21-310-6878; fax: +40-21-310-6873
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
21
The Village Museum: nestled on the shore of the Herastrau Lake, the museum displays 85 peasant homes, barns, churches and mills relocated there from all over Romania. Tall-roofed Transylvanian houses with beautifully crafted shingles sit alongside rustic wooden churches to form a unique neighborhood. The overall impression is that Romanian peasants take great pride in their work and homes. Everyday accessories: tools, butter-churns, hay forks, beer kegs and clothes are displayed inside the house. This museum can take a whole day to explore and, in fine weather, families settle down for picnics in the scenic grounds. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., every day, except Monday
The National Museum of Art: is hosted by the former Royal Palace and is the most representative art gallery in Romania. The Royal Palace was the official residence of the Romanian kings. Its current facade was given the finishing touches in 1937 when Carol II was King of Romania. The National Art Museum Palace is located in downtown Bucharest (in the so-called Revolution Square). The Palace displays an extensive collection of European and Romanian fine art. The European Art Gallery offers an overview of teh most important artistic movements that marked art history from the early Rennaissance till the first decades of teh 20th century. The Romanian Modern Art Gallery illustrates the development of Romanian fine arts from the first decades of the 19th century till the second half of the 20th century. Visiting hours: Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (May - September) 10 a.m - 6 p.m. (October - April) Closed: Monday, Tuesday
www.bucharesttours.ro
The Romanian Athenaeum: is a concert hall in the center of Bucharest and a landmark of the Romanian capital city. Opened in 1888, the ornate, domed, circular building is the city's main concert hall and home of the "George Enescu" Philarmonic and of the George Enescu annual international music festival. It has the aspect of a Greek temple with Ionic columns at the entrance. The wonderful interior with round frescoes depicts important events in Romania's history. Extensive reconstruction and restoration work has been conducted in 1992 by a Romanian construction company and restoration painter Silviu Petrescu, saving the building from collapse. Visiting hours: every day, unless concerts or rehearsals are held.
22
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
The Old Royal Court: during the early Middle Ages, Bucharest became a commercial center; important enough to enable the XIV century princes to build the Princely Court – nowadays known as "The Old Court" - which formed the development core of the medieval town. The first written mention of the name of "Bucharest" dates back to September 20, 1459: it appears on a document issued from the chancellery of the famous Prince Vlad Tepes (the Impaler). By the year 1599, a new Princely Court was built. Matei Basarab (1632-1654) renovated the Old Court. By 1640, because the prince's relations with the Turks worsened, Matei Basarab moved his Capital back to the town of Targoviste. Bucharest still remained a princely residence. In May 1654, Prince Constantin Serban Basarab (1654-1658), Matei Basarab's successor, left for Targoviste after a rebellion of his mercenary troops, and he ordered the Old Court to be set of fire. The Old Royal Court is an outdoor site that can be visited any time.
• INT’L. ORGANIZATIONS • LOCAL INSTITUTIONS • BUSINESS CONNECTIONS • AIRLINES • TRAINS • EMBASSIES • BANKS
DELEGATION OF THE EUROPEAN UNION: 31,
Sports: 28-30, Gen Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-4056200/6300; www.edu.ro
Vasile Lascar St. Ph.: 021-203-5400; Fax: 021-3168808, www.infoeuropa.ro
Ministry of Regional Development and Tourism: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-211-1409/43;
EUROPEAN BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION EBRD: Metropolis Center, 56-60, Iancu de Hune-
Ministry of Health: 1-3, Cristian Popisteanu Entr.
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
doara Blvd. Ph.: 021-202-7100; Fax: 021-202-7110; www.ebrd.com INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND: 7, Halelor St., 2nd floor Ph.: 021-311-5833; 031-805-7040; Fax: 021-318-1410. www.fmi.ro UNICEF: 48A, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-7872; Fax: 021-231-5255. www.unicef.ro UNITED NATIONS INFORMATION CENTRE: UN House, 48A Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-7877; Fax: 021-201-7880; www.un.ro WORLD BANK: 31, Vasile Lascar St. Ph.: 021-2010311; Fax: 021-201-0336
NATIONAL & LOCAL INSTITUTIONS Presidency of Romania: Cotroceni Palace, 1-3, Geniului St. Ph.: 021-410-0581; Fax: 021-410-3858; www.presidency.ro Chamber of Deputies: Parliament’s Palace, 2-4, Izvor St. Ph.: 021-316-0300, 021-414-1111; www.cdep.ro Senate of Romania: Parliament’s Palace, 1-3, 13 Septembrie Ave. Ph.: 021- 316-0300, 021-414-1111; Fax: 021- 315-8942; www.senat.ro Government of Romania: 1, Victoriei Sq. Ph.: 021314-3400; 021-313-1564; www.gov.ro
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development: 2-4, Carol I Blvd. Ph.: 021-307-2300; www.madr.ro
Ministry of Communication and Information Society: 14, Libertatii Blvd. Ph.: 021-311-4104, Fax: 021-311-4121; www.mcsi.ro
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business: 152, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-202-5106; Fax: 021-2025108; www.minind.ro Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 31, Alexandru Alley. Ph.: 021-319-2108/25; Fax: 021-319-6862; www.mae.ro Ministry of Public Finance: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-319-9759; 021-226-1110; Fax: 021-312-2509; www.mfinante.gov.ro Ministry of Justice: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-2041999; www.just.ro
www.mdrt.ro Ph.: 021-307-2500/2600: Fax: 021-307-2671; www.ms.gov.ro Ministry of Environment and Forests: 12, Libertatii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-0215; Fax: 021-316-3874; www.mmediu.ro Ministry of Culture and National Heritage: 30, Kiseleff Ave. Ph./Fax: 021-224-3947. www.cultura.ro The Prefect’s Office: 47, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-312-6525/021-9866; www. prefecturabucuresti.ro City Hall: 24, Regina Elisabeta Blvd., temporary moved to 291-293, Splaiul Independentei Ph.: 021305-5500/50/55; www.pmb.ro • Sector 1: 7-9, Banu Manta Blvd. temporary moved to 9-13, Bucuresti-Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-3191013/14/15/16/17; Fax: 021-319-1006; www.primariasector1.ro • Sector 2: 11-13, Chiristigilor St. Ph.: 021-209-6000. Fax: 021-209-6282; www.ps2.ro • Sector 3: 2-4, Parfumului St. Ph.: 021-3180323/24/25/26/27/28/29; www.sector3primarie.ro • Sector 4: 6-16, George Cosbuc Blvd. Ph.: 021-3359230; www.ps4.ro • Sector 5: 29-31, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-2838/4318; www.sector5.ro • Sector 6: 147-149, Calea Plevnei Ph.: 021-318-0147, 021-529-8498; Fax: 021-318-0152; www.primarie6.ro
MOVING COMPANIES AGS Bucharest: 9, Pipera St., entr. 2, 2E Building, 3rd floor, apt. 11. Ph.: 021-201-17-91; Fax: 021-232-52-89; www.ags-worldwide-movers.com Allied Pickfords: 29,Topraisar St. Ph.: 021-221-95-46; Fax: 021-221-94-42. www.alliedintl.com
Ministry of Labor, Family and Social Protection: 2-4, Dem I. Dobrescu St. Ph.: 021-313-6267, 021-315-8556; www.mmuncii.ro
Ministry of National Defense: 3-5, Izvor St. Ph.: 021-319-5698, 021-402-3400; Fax: 021-319-5698; www.mapn.ro Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure: 38, Dinicu Golescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-319-6124; Fax: 021313-8869; www.mt.ro Ministry of Administrations and Interior Affairs: 1A, Revolutiei Sq. Ph.: 021-303-70-80; www.mai.gov.ro
Ministry of Education, Research, Youth and www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
23
Corstjens Bucharest: 7-9, Intrarea Gherghitei
COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES
Ph.: 021-240-37-02; Fax: 021-240-37-03. www.corstjens.com
COSMOTE: America House, 4-8., N. Titulescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-404-1234, 0766-121-234; Fax: 021-413-7530; www.cosmote.ro
De Groot IRS: 20, Parangului St. Ph.: 021-224-25-63; Fax: 021-668-64-25. www. degroot.ro Orbit Worldwide Movers: T98, T370 Bucuresti Urziceni, Afumati, Ilfov; Ph.: 021-350-15-00; Fax: 021-350-15-01. www.beinoglou.gr
FOREIGN TRADE CHAMBERS TTHE AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:
ORANGE ROMANIA S.A.: Europe House, 51-53,
Union Int’l Center, 11, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021312-4834; Fax: 021-312-4851; www.amcham.ro
Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Ph.: 021-203-3030, 021-2033333; Fax: 2021-03-3599; www.orange.ro RCS & RDS: 73-75, Dr. N. Staicovici St. Ph.: 031-4004414, 031-400-4600; Fax: 031-400-6060 ROMTELECOM: 3-5, Presei Libere Sq. Ph.: 021-4088068; www.romtelecom.ro UPC ROMANIA: 62D, Nordului Ave. Ph.: 021-9399; 031-100-0400; www.upc.ro VODAFONE ROMANIA: 4A, Vasile Milea Blvd. Ph.: 021-302-2222; Fax: 021-302-1413; www.vodafone.ro
DEUTSCH - RUMÄNISCHE INDUSTRIE UND HANDELSKAMMER BUKAREST: 35, Clucerului St., 2nd floor Ph.: 021-223-1531; Fax: 021-223-1538; www.ahkrumaenien.ro FOREIGN INVESTORS COUNCIL: ING Building, 11-13, Kiseleff Ave. Ph.: 021-222-1931; Fax:021-2221932; www.fic.ro FRENCH T.I.C.C. IN ROMANIA: 21, Andrei Muresanu St. Ph.: 021-317-1284, 021-230-0377; www.ccifer.ro JAPAN EXTERNAL TRADE ORGANIZATION: IBC Modern, 34-36, Carol Blvd. 5th floor Ph.: 021-3106801/02; www.jetro.go.jp ROMANIA TURKEY T.I.C.C.: 58, Austrului St., Ph./Fax: 021-326-9722 ROMANIA CHINA T.I.C.C.: 28, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-5114; Fax: 021-312-1371.
SCHOOLS The following English-speaking schools are located in Bucharest:
International British School: 21-23, Agricultori St. Ph. 021-253-1698,
International School for Primary Education: 72, Petre Aurelian St. Green Lake Residences Ph. 021-380-3535,
Source: Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry Union
NATIONAL AGENCIES BUCHAREST OFFICE OF TRADE REGISTERY: 1, Sectorului Entr. Ph.: 021-316-0820; www.onrc.ro COMPETITION COUNCIL: 1, Presei Libere Sq. Ph.: 021-405-4429; Fax: 021-405-4402; www.consiliuconcurentei.ro NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TRAVEL AGENCIES IN ROMANIA - ANAT: 59, Horia Macelariu St. 4th floor, Apt. 401 Ph.: 021-321-1908, 021-323-0855, 031-106-9810/11; Fax: 021-323-6843; www.anat.ro NATIONAL TRADE REGISTERY OFFICE: 74A, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-0804; Fax: 021-316-0803; www.onrc.ro ROMANIAN FOREIGN TRADE CENTER: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-318-5050; Fax: 021-311-1491; www.traderom.ro
ROMANIAN AGENCY FOR FOREIGN INVESTMENTS: 22, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-233-9103 T.I.C.C. OF ROMANIA: 2, Octavian Goga Blvd., Ph.: 021-319-0114/18; www.ccir.ro
LAWYERS
Ph.: 021-320-1538
American International School: 196, Soseaua Pipera-Tunari. Ph.: 021-204-4300
International Computer High School of Bucharest: 428, Mihai Bravu Ave, Ph. 021-327-5443.
MAIL SERVICES
Fax: 031-229-2601; www.mazars.ro
CARGUS INTERNATIONAL: 1, Bucuresti Ave.,
NESTOR NESTOR DICULESCU KINGSTON PETERSEN: Bucharest Business Park, Entr. A, 4th floor,
Otopeni Ph.: 021-9330, 021-933-0000; Fax: 021-3510200; www.cargus.ro DHL INTERNATIONAL ROMANIA: 169 A, Floreasca Ave. Ph.: 021-222-1777; www.dhl.ro FEDERAL EXPRESS ROMANIA: 13, Fermei St., Otopeni Ph.: 021-201-4822; Fax: 021-201-4827; www.fedex.com PEGASUS / AIRBORNE EXPRESS: 13, Iancului Ave. Ph.: 021-250-9360; Fax: 021-256-9504; www.pegasus.ro POSTA RAPIDA / EXPRESS MAIL: 140, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-200-7500; www.posta-romana.ro TNT ROMANIA: BBP Building, Corp C1+C2, ground floor, 1A, Bucuresti – Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-303-4567; Fax: 021-303-4543; www.tnt.com UPS - UNITED PARCEL SERVICE: 81-83, 13 Septembrie Ave., Bl. 77 AB Ph.: 021-410-0604; Fax: 021-410-9910; www.ups.com
RUBIN MEYER DORU & TRANDAFIR attorneys at Law affiliated with Herzfeld & Rubin, P.C.: 7, Putu cu Plopi St. Ph.: 021-311-1460; Fax: 021-3111465. www.hr.ro
SALANS-MOORE, VARTIRES & ASSOCIATES: 28C, G-ral C. Budisteanu St. Ph.: 021-312-4950; Fax: 021-312-4951; www.salans.com
VASILE DELEANU attorneys at Law Member of Warwick Legal Network: 2, Maresal Josef Pilsudski Entrance Ph.: 021-201-6684; Fax: 021-201-6685; www.deleanu.ro Bucuresti what, where, when
Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.0724-000-900; 021-267-8912,
Lauder Reut Kindergartden: 15, Barsch Iuliu St.
MAZARS, DUNCEA, STEFANESCU & ASSOCIATES: 31B, Econom Cezarescu St. Ph.: 031-229-2600;
1A, Bucuresti-Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-201-1200; Fax: 021-201-1210; www.nndkp.com PACHIU & ASSOCIATES attorneys at Law: 4-10, Muntii Tatra St. 5th floor Ph.: 021-312-1008; Fax: 021312-1009; www.pachiu.com
24
Mark Twain International School: 25B, Erou
www.bucurestiwww.ro
AIRLINES
PRIVATE FLIGHTS
EMBASSIES
AEGEAN: Henri Coanda Int’l Air-
EUROJET AVIATION: 0 B 61-63, Ion
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: 1, Louis Blanc St. Ph: 021-318-76-65; 021-318-76-61. AUSTRIAN AIRLINES: 6 D 9A, Aleea Alexandru. Ph: 021-204-45-60; Fax: 021-204-84-28 BALKAN AIR (GSA): 6 D 5-7, Eugen Carada St. Ph: 021-314-39-45; Fax:021-314-39-49 BRITISH AIRWAYS: 6 D 15, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-303-22-22; Fax: 021-303-22-11. CSA: 7 D 27, Uruguai St., 1st floor. Ph: 021-223-32-05; Fax: 021-223-08-84. DELTA AIRLINES (GSA): 5 C America House 1st floor. 4-8, Sos. N. Titulescu; Ph: 021-313-35-82; EL AL: 1, Dimitrie Cantemir Blvd. Ph: 021-317-88-60/61 Fax: 021-317-88-62 EMIRATES (GSA): 5C 57, Dr. Iacob Felix St, 1st floor; Ph: 031-403-5030
Ionescu de la Brad Blvd., suites 1&2. Ph: 0374-222-777, 0374-222-888, Fax: 021-2693-779 ION TIRIAC AIR: 2 B Sos BucurestiPloiesti, Km 16,5; Ph: 021-230-6081, Fax: 021-204-2224
Albania: 021-211-9829 Algeria: 021-211-5150 Argentina: 021-312-1739 Armenia: 021-319-7604 Australia: 021-320-9802 Austria: 021-210-4354 Azerbaidjan: 021-233-2484 Belarus: 021-223-1776 Belgium: 021-210-2969 Brazil: 021-230-7825 Bulgaria: 021-230-2159 Canada: 021-307-5000 Chile: 021-312-7311 China: 021-232-8858 Congo: 0740-808-009 Croatia: 021-313-0369 Cuba: 021-211-8795 Czech Republic: 021-303-9230 Denmark: 021-300-0800 Egypt: 021-211-0938 Finland: 021-230-7545 France: 021-303-1000 Germany: 021-202-9830 Great Britain: 021-201-7200 Greece: 021-209-4170 Hungary: 021-311-0062 India: 021-211-5451 Indonesia: 021-312-0742 Irak: 021-233-9008 Iran: 021-312-0493 Ireland 021-310-2131 Israel: 021-318-9415 Italy: 021-305-2100 Japan: 021-319-1890 Jordan: 021-210-4705 Korea/N: 021-232-9665 Korea/S: 021-230-7198 Lebanon: 021-230-0302 Macedonia: 021-210-0880 Malaysia: 021-211-3801 Mexic: 021-210-4577 Moldova: 021-230-0474 Morocco: 021-317-4124 Netherlands: 021-208-6030 Norway: 021-210-0274 Nigeria: 021-312-8685 Pakistan: 021-318-7873 Palestina: 021-310-7422 Peru: 021-223-1253 Philippines: 021-224-8070 Poland: 021-308-2200 Portugal: 021-230-4117 Quatar: 021-233-9053 Russia: 021-222-3170 Serbia & Muntenegru: 021-211-9872 Slovakia: 021-300-6100 Slovenia: 021-300-2780 Spain: 021-233-9190 Sweden: 021-406-7100 Switzerland: 021-206-1600 Syria: 021-319-2467 S Africa: 021-313-3725 Thailand: 021-311-0031 Turkey: 021-210-0407 Ukraine: 021-211-6986 Uruguay: 021-222-5874 USA: 021-200-3300 Vatican: 021-313-9490 Venezuela: 021-222-5874 Vietnam: 021-311-1604
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): 1 B Baneasa Int’l Airport; Call centre: 021-201-1851/2; Fax: 021-201-1853.
SWISS INT’L AIR LINES: Ph: 021-312-0238; Fax: 021-212-5774 TAROM: 7 C 17, Splaiul Independentei. Ph: 021-303-4400; Fax: 021-316-44-44. 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: 021-2316570 BANC POST: 6 - 6A, Calea Vitan; Ph.: 0800-110-200, 021-302-0789 BANCA COMERCIALA ROMANA: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 08010801-22; Fax: 021-407-4200
BANCA C.R. FIRENZE ROMANIA: 55, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-1930; Fax: 021-201-1931 BANCA ITALO ROMENA: 2-4, Gara Herastrau St., ground floor - 3rd floors; Ph.: 021-232-0712/26; Fax: 021-232-0738 BANCA ROMANEASCA: 35, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-305-9300; Fax: 021-305-9191 BANK OF CYPRUS: 187 B, Calea Dorobantilor Ph: 021-409-9100
BRD - GROUPE SOCIETE GENERALE: 1-7, Ion Mihalache Blvd. Ph.: 0800-803-803; 021-301-6100; Fax: 021-301-6636 CEC BANK: 11-13, Calea Victoriei Ph.: 021-311-1119; 0800.800.8488; Fax: 021-312-5425 CITIBANK ROMANIA: 145, Calea Victoriei Ph.: 021-203-5550; Fax: 021-203-5565 CREDIT EUROPE BANK: 26Z, Timisoara Blvd. Ph.: 021-406-4000; Fax: 021-317-2066 EMPORIKI BANK: 19, Berzei St. Ph.: 021-310-3955; Fax: 021-310-3991 GARANTI BANK: 5, Fabrica de Glucoza Ave., Novo Park 3 Business Center, F Building, 5th-6th floors Ph.: 021-208-9260; Fax: 021-208-9286 ING BANK: 11-13, Kiseleff Blvd. Ph.: 021-222-1600; Fax: 021-222-1401 LIBRA BANK: 4-6, Semilunei St. Ph.: 021-208-8000; Fax: 021-230-6565 MARFIN BANK ROMANIA: 90-92, Emanoil Porumbaru St. Ph.: 021-2064230; Fax: 021-206-4280 OTP BANK ROMANIA: 66-68, Buzesti St. Ph.: 021-307-5700; Fax: 021-307-5730 PIRAEUS BANK ROMANIA: 29-31, N. Titulescu Ave., Ph.: 021-303-6969, 0800-801-802; Fax: 021-303-6968 RAIFFEISEN BANK: 15, Charles de Gaulle Sq. Ph.: 021-306-1000; Fax: 021-230-0700 ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND: 10, Montreal Sq., World Trade Center-E, 2nd floor Ph.: 021-202-0400, 0801-022-622 UNICREDIT TIRIAC BANK: 23-25, Ghetarilor St. Ph.: 021-200-2000 VOLKSBANK ROMANIA: 171-173, Mihai Bravu Ave. 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: 021-313-2644 [7D]). For information call 01860-0952; for reservation call special # 9522. www.cfr.ro
Dacia R366 Bucharest - Budapest - Vienna 16:10 05:32 09:00
Karpathy R388 Bucharest - Krakow - Warsaw 19:35 05:30 22:54
Muntenia R372 Bucharest - Budapest - Zagreb - Venice 00:20 14:12 23:55 09:18
Intercities Bucharest - Brasov 09:30 12:26 (IC 537) 20:30 22:58 (IC 539) Bucharest - Constanta 07:14 09:40 (IC 581) 13:20 17:16 (IC 583) Bucharest - Timisoara 05:47 13:20 (IC 591) 15:45 23:06 (IC 593) Bucharest - Cluj 13:30 20:52 (IC 531) Bucharest - Iasi 06: 00 12:29 (IC 561) 18:00 23:43 (IC 563)
All the above trains leave from Gara de Nord.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
25
On the following pages, boutiques, major department stores and specialty shops and markets are grouped by the type of product they sell. Most establishments are open Monday to Saturday from 10 or 11 am to 6 or 8 pm closing time. Malls and other boutiques are also open during the weekend, though some may close earlier on Sundays.
44A, Sos. Bucuresti Ploiesti
Maniu Blvd.
COMMERCIAL CENTER ORHIDEEA: 210 - 210 B, Spl. Inde-
PLAZA ROMANIA: 26, Timisoara
of the store (downtown – periphery) or the availability of products. GIMA: Bucuresti Mall 8 F MEGA IMAGE: Every neighborhood has one!
Blvd.
COSMETICS & BEAUTY
RIN GRAND HOTEL SHOPPING GALLERY: 7D , Calea Vitan. UNIREA SHOPPING CENTER:
BEAUTY SHOP: • Bucuresti Mall
SHOPPING CENTERS
COCOR STORE: 29-33, I.C. Bratianu
One can easily find ready-to-wear clothes, shoes, accessories, jewelry, watches, sportswear, lingerie, perfumes and gifts. Food courts can often be found on or near the premises. These shopping centers might be similar in many ways with those that you are already familiar with.
Blvd.
AFI PALACE COTROCENI: 4, Vasile Milea Blvd.
7A
BANEASA SHOPPING CITY: 42D,
7D
COMMERCIAL CENTER FEERIA:
pendentei
6A
ESPLANADA SHOPPING CENTER: 20, Sos. Vergului.
MARIO PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER: 172, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D MILITARI SHOPPING: 546-560 Iuliu
8D
GRAND ARENA MALL: 12 Me-
1, Unirii Square
talurgiei Blvd..
WORLD TRADE PLAZA: 10, Montreal Sq.
3B
8F
• 27-33, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • 26, Timisoara Blvd. - Plaza Romania SEPHORA: Orhideea Shopping Center CLINIQUE: 100, Calea Victoriei 6 D ESTEE LAUDER: 100, Calea Victoriei
Sos. Bucuresti-Ploiesti
GRAND AVENUE SHOPPING GALLERY: 90, Calea 13 Septembrie
BUCURESTI MALL: 55-59, Calea
JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel
METRO: • Militari • Baneasa • Berceni
7D
8B
• Voluntari
INA CENTER: • Afi Palace Cotroceni
JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA: 103 Bis,
SELGROS: • Pantelimon, 90, Biruintei Blvd; • Baneasa, 55-65, BucurestiPloiesti • Berceni, 92-108, Turnu Magurele St.
Vitan
8F
CARREFOUR MILITARI COMMERCIAL GALLERY: Autostrada Buc-
Erou Iancu Nicolae St.
Pitesti, km 11/12
LIBERTY CENTER: 151-171, Progre-
CITY MALL: 2, Sos.Oltenitei.
sului St.
9C
CASH & CARRY
HIPERMARKETS AUCHAN: 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918
7A . • 27, I Campineanu St. 7 D • 14-16, CA Rosetti St. 6 D • WTC Galleries 3 B • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Esplanada Shopping Center • 103, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Jolie Ville • Cora Lujerului • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A
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 worldwide brands are available. Prices may differ slightly because of the location
26
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
MARIONNAUD: • Afi Palace Cotroceni
7A
PRIVILEGE: • 172, Calea Dorobantilor • Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4D
• Unirea Shopping Center 8 E • Carrefour Militari Gallery, • Carrefour Colentina Gallery, • Selgros Baneasa • Selgros Berceni, • Selgros Pantelimon • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A
FASHION BLISS: Valentino, Louis Feraud, Calvin Klein, Lorenzini; 23, Calea Victoriei 7 D
BERSHKA: Baneasa Shopping City BRAY SUITE ANTHOLOGY: Bucuresti Mall C & A: Fashion for Men and Women. Militari Shopping• Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A CACHAREL: Fashion for Men. Baneasa Shopping City CASA FRUMOASA STORE- Luxury men’s wear, handmade shoes & exquisite accessories from: Loro Piana, Tom Ford, Brioni, Scabal, Salvatore Ferragamo, Santoni, Lorenzini, Jacob Cohen, Zimmerli - 40, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. 5 C - Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8 B CANALI: – 196, Calea Dorobantilor 4D
ELEGANCE BOUTIQUE: Classic ladies look, warm textures, garments, leather accessories & shoes, art jewellery - 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel, entrance from George Enescu St. 8 B
ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA - Flagshipstore: Ermenegildo Zegna, Z Zegna, Zegna Sport 63-81, Calea Victoriei 6 D GANT: • 52, Calea Victoriei 7 D • Bucuresti Mall • Baneasa Shopping City GUESS: 87-89, Calea Victoriei 6 D JKRISTENSEN STORE - Luxury ladies fashion & accessories from Salvatore Ferragamo, Loro Piana, Brioni, Blumarine, Alberta Ferretti, Diane Von Furstenberg, Santoni, Fabiana Fillippi, Ermano Scervino - 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel 6 D KENVELO: Bucuresti Mall 8 F LANCEL: • Feeria Shopping Center; La Perla: 122, Calea Victoriei 6 D L’ARMOIRE - Concept Store: Special evening & office clothing, limited series or even uniques created by Romanian designers such as: Lena Criveanu, Wilhelmina Arz, Elena Perseil, Irina Marinescu, Dorin Negrau, Sepala by Mihaela Glavan, Kinga Varga, Ludmila Corlateanu, Zasha. 1, Intrarea Noptii with 18, Ion Mihalache Blvd. 5 C LOUIS VUITTON: 90,Calea 13 Septembrie (Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery) 8 B
• Orhideea Shopping Center • Unirea Shopping Center Specialized men’s apparel • 118, Calea Victoriei Cotroceni 7A
6D
• Afi Palace
MANGO: • Bucuresti Mall • Plaza Romania
8F
MARELLA: 21-23,Calea Victoriei 7 D MARIELLA BURANI: • 21-23, Calea Victoriei
7D
MARKS & SPENCER: • Bucuresti Mall 8F
• Orhideea Shopping Center
MAXMARA: 122 A, Calea Victoriei 6 D MENGOTTI: Prada, Dolce&Gabbana, Etro, Fendi, Burberry, Neil Barrett, Moncler, Valentino, Marni, DVF, Parosh, Zagliani, By-The - 48-50, Calea Victoriei 7 D MODA & STYLE: Valentino Roma, Valentino Garavani, Valentino Furs (Roma), Red Valentino, Love Moschino, Class Roberto Cavalli, Emilio Pucci, D & G, Donna Karan, Donna Karan NY, Roccobarocco, Ermano Scervino, Galliano, Stuart Weitzman, Karl Lagerfeld, Cristiano Burani, Givenchy, Love Sex Money, Ferre, Nando Muzi. - Jolie Ville Galleria, first floor. MORA: 4 C Conceptual luxury boutique, carrying a special selection of premium and designer vintage clothing and accessories, as well as a private and exclusive line of the Romanian high-end brand t shirt couture. Paris St. Reservations: 0748-544911. Opened daily from 12:00 until late in the night.
MOTIVI: • Baneasa Shopping City • Bucuresti Mall 8F • Plaza Romania
6A
8D
JEWELRY Gold jewelry with precious and semiprecious stones, silver jewelry, watches, purses and other similar goods from famous designers. CELLINI: Italian art in jewelry • 1-3, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • 16, N. Balcescu Blvd. 7 D DAVID SANDU JEWELRY: 30, Smardan St. 1st floor 7 D FOLLI FOLLIE: Jewellery, Watches & Accessories. • Baneasa Shopping City • City Mall - groundfloor FREY WILLE: Framed in 18 carat gold or gold-plated settings, each piece is a work of art in itself: the integrated design sets can be collected as one might collect fine art; also silk scarves and leather handbags, as well as men accessories: cufflinks, leather belts and silk ties. 118, Calea Victoriei 6 D GMT Everytime: Men & women watches: Omega, Mont Blanc, Longines, Revue Thomen, Tissot, Tag Heuer, Rado, Sector, Calvin Klein 172, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D (Mario Plaza Shopping Center) HELVETANSA: Swiss watches: Baume & Mercier, Cartier, Movado, Longines, Piaget, Tissot, Rado, Vacheron Constantin. 88, Calea Victoriei 6 D 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
6D
• 118, Calea Victoriei
6D
ECCO: Men, women, kids & performance footwear. • Commercial Center Feeria • Baneasa Shopping City GEOX: Commercial Center Feeria Unirea Shopping Center 8 D - AFI Palace Cotroceni groundfloor 7A 8 F HUMANIC: • Baneasa Shopping City • Militari Shopping MIHAI ALBU: Selling his own creations of leathergoods and Deluxe footwear. Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8 B
OTTER: •Commercial Center Feeria Unirea Shopping Center 8 D - Carrefour Militari Commercial Gallery – Bucuresti Mall 8 F – 235, Mosilor Ave. – Commercial Center Orhideea 6 A Plaza Romania – Militari Shopping –
NAUTICA: • 35, N. Balcescu BlvdOutlet. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor 55-59, Calea Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti • Fashion House Outlet Centre, West Park, A1 Bucuresti-Pitesti, km 13
No 36 – SEROUSSI: Seroussi, Pierre Cardin - Bucuresti Mall, groundfloor 8 F - Cocor Store, 4th floor - 7 D
PAL ZILERI: 63-81, Calea Victoriei 6 D PEEK & CLOPPENBURG: Armani Collezioni, Hugo Boss, Vogue, Burberry, Lagerfeld, Calvin Klein Jeans, DKNY Jeans • Baneasa Shopping City
PULL & BEAR: • Baneasa Shopping City
RIVER WOODS: • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Mario Plaza Shopping Center. 4 D STEILMANN: • 1-5, Magheru Blvd 6 D • Plaza Romania • Bucuresti Mall 8 F TERZOATTO: Italian Fashion. 172, Calea Dorobantilor
3B
TIMBERLAND: 35, N. Balcescu Blvd.Outlet. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor 55-59, Calea Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti • Fashion House Outlet Centre, West Park, A1 Bucuresti-Pitesti, km 13
ZARA: • Baneasa Shopping City • Plaza Romania
FASHION FOR KIDS Z: Kids fashion. • 112, Calea Victoriei 6D
• Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor page 28
8E
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
27
9C
decorative art, carpets and other various decorative objects. 19 Covaci St., 1st floor + Attic 7 D
8D
ART GALLERIES
LACOSTE: • Baneasa Shopping City
CAMINUL ARTEI: 16, Biserica Enei St. GALLERY OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ART OF ROMANIA: 49-
HERVIS SPORTS: • Liberty Center. • Militari Shopping INTERSPORT: 39, I.C. Bratianu Blvd.
AFI Palace Cotroceni Shopping Center.
7A
– Esplanada
BOOK STORES NOI: 18, N. Balcescu Blvd.
7D
INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORATION ANATOLIAN CARPET BOUTIQUE: Massive silver objects, Romanian Handicraft, glass objects, home life collection. • Carrefour Colentina. 8 D • 31, Soseaua Kiseleff. 4 C • Unirea Shopping Center. CASA MIA: • Mario Plaza Shopping Center. INNOVA: Crystal, design home accessories, home textiles, Christmas decorations, Limoges porcelaine. • 4, Patriei St. 7 D
SPORTS EQUIPMENT & TRAVEL ADIDAS: • 28-30, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall. 8 E • 116-122, Calea Dorobantilor 5 D DECATHLON: Militari Shopping DIADORA: Auchan GBS - WORLD OF BRANDS: Samsonite, Lacoste - accessories, Showroom: • 71, Soseaua Panduri. 8 B (JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel) • World Trade Plaza (Sofitel Hotel) 10, Montreal Sq. 3 B • Henri Coanda Int’l Airport
• Bucuresti Mall. 8 F LOTTO: • 225, Calea Mosilor 6 F • Auchan - 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd. • City Mall NIKE: • 25, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall. 8 F • 95, Stirbei Voda St. PUMA: Unirea Shopping Center. 8 E SERGIO TACCHINI: Carrefour - Autostrada Buc.-Pitesti km. 11-12
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 Antiques, furniture, porcelain, art glass, jewelery, paintings, decorative art, Oriental carpets, old coins, medals, clocks, ikones & collectibles. The knowledgeable staff graciously assists beginnin collectors, corporate interests & seasoned connoisseurs. C.C. accepted. 63-65, Lipscani St., 1st floor. THOMAS ANTIQUES: combines the shopping experience with the atmosphere of an old, classy bar. Special book collection in the attic; great variety of antiques - furniture, clocks, wall clocks and standing clocks, paintings,
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
53, Calea Victoriei
LA CASA DEL HABANO: Large se-
HANUL CU TEI - ANTIQUES, ART GALLERY & AUCTION HOUSE:
lection of original Cuban cigars; accessories. 1-3, Episcopiei St. (Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest) 6 D
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.
LIQUOR SHOPS VINLUX: Large selection of special Romania & Imported wines, cognacs, champagnes, whiskies, etc. 8, Libertatii Blvd., Bl. 115, ground floor 8 C
GIFTS ART GLASS: 9-11, Selari St. 7 D “CRAII DE CURTEA-VECHE”: Furniture, artifacts, photography, art deco, documents from the last period of the 19th century. 14, Covaci St.
INSIDE-forever gifts by INNOVA: 4, Patriei St.
7D
ROMARTIZANA: 18-20, Calea Victoriei
7D
SARRA BLU’: • Unirea Shopping Center • Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4 D • Bucuresti Mall 8 F TOTEM: Handicrafts & decorations from South-East Asia, India, Africa, South America; Aromatherapy items; Jewelery & fashion accessories; Personalized gifts. • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • 1, Unirii Square 8 D
ROMANIAN HANDICRAFTS
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.
• PIATA OBOR: 5 F A huge covered market located behind the Bucur Obor Department Store at the intersection of Calea Mosilor and Calea Stefan cel Mare. Although the selection of goods is big, the market is crowded and appears dirty. Watch your pockets and bags. If you’re looking for a truly Romanian market experience, this is your spot. Pets, including aquarium supplies, are available, as are fishing needs (including live worms, poles, lures). Wooden and woolen goods, ceramics, clothing, as well as plants cut and growing, are available. A large pedigree dog and cat market at least once a month on the street nearest Mosilor is a fun experience. • PIATA 1 MAI: 5 C Located near La Fourmi on Ion Mihalache Blvd. It is a small market but has a good selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers. As with all the above markets, clothing, shoes, and household items for cleaning and cooking may also be found. Honey and other bee byproducts are a national pride of Romania and are found at all of these outdoor markets. • PIATA DOROBANTILOR: 4 D Located indoors on Calea Dorobantilor north of Calea Stefan cel Mare. It offers produce and flowers. The quality is better than Amzei, but the prices are olso higher. Out of season exotic fruits and vegetables can be found here. There are several other stores in this area. The meat market inside is particularly good.
28
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
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.
22:30 pm (22:00 – last order)
ASIAN CUISINE Benihana Restaurant:
6D
offers authentic Japanese teppanyaki cuisine and a renowned sushi bar. Six skilled Asian cooks prepare the food in front of your very eyes, tantalizing your senses. For any lover of premium-quality fish and sea-food, a dinner at Benihana becomes an unforgettable experience. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Phone: 021 201 5030, Open: 12:00 – 15:00, 19:00 – 23:00 last order. Cafe' Shangrila: Thai, Filipino, Chinese and Japanese food prepared by world class and versatile Asian chefs. Also serves choices of continental breakfast, salads, selection of wines and beverages. A place to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and have a taste of the scrumptious cake selections. Take out food service available. 172, Calea Dorobantilor (Mario Plaza Shopping Center) Ph.: 021-230-47-69. Open: 10:00 - 21:00 Maiko: 2 C One of the most fashionable Restaurant, Bar & Lounge. The ethos behind Maiko is that the true aims of cooking are to give pleasure and satisfaction to guests, to communicate trough each individual ingredient emotion, personality and culture; to create a special event with every dish, to produce a series of little surprises that invariably introduce a new flavour. The restaurant is always delighted to host your Business Lunches, daily between 12:00 and 15:00, and to offer you the perfect 25 Euro meal for such an occasion ( Includes Salad, Rice, Miso Soup, Meat or Fish Dishes). 27-29, Grigore GafencuSt. Ph.: 021-233-2633, 031-805-3985, 0751-262-465, 0730-562456; Open: daily 12:00 - 24:00 Mandarin: Explore the exotic flavor of the Asian with Mandarin cuisine. Come join us and taste! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021-206-8066. Open: 12:00 –
30
Bucuresti what, where, when
Orasul Interzis (The Forbidden City):
FINE DINING 6E
“Orasul Interzis”is the first luxury Chinese restaurant which aims at offering a true gastronomic experience due to the specialties that feed both the body and the soul. The restaurant as well as the terrace can host private and corporate parties, business lunch/ dinner, work groups, meetings and other events, in a selected and refined ambiance. Enjoy the exotic menu and the business lunch special offer, Monday to Friday, 12:30 to 16:00. For those of you who are very busy but still want to flatter their senses by trying these dishes, this little Asian gastronomic paradise can come to their homes. C.C. accepted, wireless Internet, air conditioned, smokers/ non-smokers area, home delivery. 3, Silvestru St. Ph.: 031 425 47 47; 0720 99 3333. Open: 12:30 – till the last guest.
AUSTRIAN CUISINE Imperial Restaurant: Their awarded International & Austrian cuisine, an elegant and refined place, with its woodburning fireplace and classic white linens offset by deep rich colored walls, awaits the travelers as well as the couples enjoying a romantic dinner. C.C. accepted. 23-25, Aleea Suter (Aducco Imperial Carol Parc Hotel); Ph: 021-336-3377. Open: 06:30 - 23:30.
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.: 021230-0770; 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)
www.bucurestiwww.ro
2 A The feather in the Crowne Plaza’s cap, this is the hotel’s flagship restaurant, a work of great detail where everything is lovingly prepared by Executive Chef Ashlie Dias and his highly experienced team. Based around Mediterranean cuisine you can always expect to find something special and a bit different on the daring menu, as well as a number of hot dishes requiring waiter and audience. An indulgent treat. Reservations highly recommended. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Non-Smoking. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 17.00 – 23.00, Closed Sat, Sun.
The Vinyard:
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.: 021311-9744; Fax: 021-311-1645. Open: 18:30-01:00. Heritage: 6 D The restaurant located on 19, Polona Street was built in 1920, serving as residence to Gheorghe Tatarascu, Romanian prime minister in the 30s. It is a place that impresses through its architecture and elegant refinement. The Heritage Restaurant is aiming for going on top of the "fine dining" restaurants in Bucharest with a traditional French menu, a fine selection of wines and a relaxed atmosphere. Ingredients are carefully chosen by the chef himself as proof of their freshness and quality. Restaurant. Wine cellar. Private & Corporate Events. Thematic Events. Gourmet Events. CC accepted. Guarded parking lot. Ph.: 021 210.88.50; Open: Mon. - Sat. 12.30 - 24.00 (22.30 last food order). 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: 021310-7360. Open: 12:00-24:00. La Bonne Bouche: 7 D Bistro & Wine Bar. Warm atmosphere, friendly staff. Check the extensive wine list. Chef’s weekly menu. Not cheap, but good value for money! 30, Franceza St. (Old Town); Ph.: 0731-247-876; Open: 12:30 – 24:00, Mon. 18:30 – 24:00 La Cantine de Nicolai: 5 C Semi-gastronomique French restaurant. Sami Babou, the "Special Delegate" of Chef Alain Ducasse, brings great joy to your sense of taste with his elaborate recipes. Pop-art sculptures and paintings complete the sophisticated atmosphere. The terrace - away from the public eye - is perfect for discreet business lunches or romantic dinners. Their credo is: Delight - Privacy - Art. 15-17, Povernei St. Ph.: 0725-210-608, 037-274-6213. Open daily: 11:00 till late (23:00 last order). L’Estaminet: 6 B French restaurant, within the new Ibis Continental Nord Hotel. CC accepted. 143, Calea Grivitei. Open: 7:00-22:30. The Epoque Bistro: Would you like to see the Chef in action? The Epoque Bistro features an open kitchen in which you can actually witness the creation of our splendid French cuisine and Steak house specialities. The Epoque Bistro welcomes you with a winter garden and 90 seats, available for private parties & events. Epoque Bistro’s Chef is renowned for its modern French menu featuring delicate flavours created from luxury and quality ingredients. Extensively trained in the best international cooking schools, he welcomes you every day to his authentic exquisite Frech Cuisine specialities and last but not list the Steak house
dishe. The restaurant’s speciality is its 6-course tasting menus, but there is also catering for vegetarians, as well as an à la carte menu. The facilities are: smoking and nonsmoking feature; free high speed WI-FI internet access; air conditioning; daily newspaper; CC accepted, guarded free parking lot . 17C, Aurora Entr. (Epoque Hotel); Ph.: 021- 3123232. Open: 06:30 – 23:00.
FUSION/CONTEMPORARY CUISINE Avalon: 6 D A fine dining atmosphere, fusion and avantgarde cuisine using exquisite ingredients and innovative cooking techniques make dining at Avalon restaurant an unforgettable experience. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Phone: 021 201 5030, Open for breakfast 06:30 – 10:30, lunch 12:00 – 15:00, dinner 19:00 – 22:30 last order.
GERMAN CUISINE Die Deutsche Kneipe: 5 D Traditional German cuisine, drinks and atmosphere. C. C. accepted. 9, Stockholm St. Ph.: 021-233-9462, 021-230-1120 0722-284560. Open: Mon.-Sat 15:00 - 23:00. Sunday closed.
GOURMET CUISINE Champagne & Caviar Bar: 5 C An exclusive location, a gorgeous villa in the heart of the city, welcomes you in a refined and relaxing ambiance. You can taste here the finest Champagnes & Premium Selection Caviar and special Delicacies Menus: Kamatchatka King Crab Merus on Bed of Home Made Ravioli, Lobster Tail Salad with Truffled Carpaccio, Fresh Tagliateli with Prawns & Black Truffles. High Class services, VIP treat & Valet Parking any time of the day. CC accepted, wireless internet, air conditioned. 40, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves; Reservation is highly recommended. Ph.: 021-317-6007; 0733-735-932. Prime Steaks & Seafood: 6 D An outstanding culinary experience, either for a business lunch or simply for a relaxing escape. The menu showcases an elegant selection of gourmet food such as the world’s best steak, Irish Hereford Prime Rib-eye, or King Crab from Alaska, everything prepared in the inviting open kitchen. Complementing the gourmet menu, the extensive list of beverages includes worldwide famous wines, as well as a unique selection of awarded Romanian wines. 44 places. Red glass for show kitchen, walk in wine cellar. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 6381, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: Mon. – Fri. 12:30 - 15:00; daily 18:30 23:00.
7 D You are invited to Balkan Bistro, where the enticing dishes will offer you the perfect Balkan flavor. The restaurant hosts a modern atmosphere dominated by the red and black colors (specific to all Balkan countries). The menu offers traditional dishes allowing you to sense the gastronomic influence of the countries which belong to this particular region: Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Turkey, Serbia. Every dish has an interesting story behind it, giving any gourmand a hint of what is to be expected. C.C. Accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open: Breakfast 06:30 - 10:30 weekdays; 07:00 - 11:00 week-ends. Barbizon Steak House: 3 A Pullman Bucharest World Trade Center introduces its restaurant with a capacity of 65 seats. Taste premium quality meats and choose from over 50 International wines (Red, White and Rose). Live cooking in the show kitchen. Designated smoking area with a capacity of 40 seats. Air Conditioning.CC accepted. Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Friday: Lunch 12:00 – 15:30; Dinner 18:00 – 23:30; Saturday & Sunday: Dinner 18:00 – 23:00; Ph.: 021 202 1635. Hotel Pullman, 10, Montréal Square. La Brasserie: 2 A Less about fine dining but more about good quality, simply food for the whole family. The menu is available buffet-style or a-la-carte and gives a great choice for groups. The wine list remains a work of art and the atmosphere is cozier than ever. Sunday Brunch is back, with playground and a professional nanny to supervise the kids, smoking area and free parking. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Live Music, Non-Smoking, Take Away. 1,
Balkan Bistro:
Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open daily: 06.00 – 23.00 Café Athénée: 6D The new Cafe Athenee is a contemporary place paying homage to its historic location on Revolution Square, the site of some of Romanian history’s most momentous events. During the day the menu offer brings classic European dishes with a modern twist, linking the contemporary design with the glamorous history. As the evening comes the Cafe becomes more of a lounge with candles and music, providing a casual and cozy atmosphere. Specialties to spoil the appetite are served during the night from the‘Bubbles & Bites’menu. Deluxe gourmet items along with sparkling wines in all variations are among the best one can get in Bucharest. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Open: 08:00 - 24:00. Cafe Theatro Restaurant: 7 D The heart of the Novotel hotel is the elegant Cafe Theatro restaurant, known for its distinct ambiance, international cuisine and superb buffets. Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 30. Open daily: 06:00 - 23:00. Caredy * Casa Ardeleneasca: 4 C Transylvanian & International cuisine restaurant, placed in an esquisite villa. Large offer and special selection of wines. C.C. ccepted.Guarded parking lot. 1, Sofia St. Ph.: 021-230-2769. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves. Casa Capsa: 7 D Established in 1852, Casa Capsa is the symbol of the Romanian high-life society. The founder, Grigore Capsa (1841-1902) introduced from the very beginning the occidental standards of quality and refinement. He
INDIAN CUISINE Agra Palace: From the City of Agra, once capital of the famous Mogul Empire, where the white marble of Taj Mahal guards the banks of river Yamuna, among the Hibiscus flowers and majestic archways, chef Arun Kumar has brought the essential: the mysterious taste of India. C.C. accepted; Free Wi fi internet access; Guarded parking lot. Open: 12:00 .- 24:00 Sos. Pipera-Tunari nr. 47. Ph: 021350.31.14 Taj: 8 B Indian cuisine. Genuine Northern Indian menu creared by Indian chef. Special brunch offer. Indian live show, Fri & Sat. Indian decoration, soft music, pleasant atmosphere, separate smoking area. Air conditioned; terrace. C.C. accepted. Parking lot. 127-131, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-410-1820. Open: 12:00 - 02:00.
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, non-smoking area, Guarded parking lot, CC accepted. 8, Prof. Ion Cantacuzino St. Ph.:021-260-2960; 0753-999-333; Open: 12:00-24:00. www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
31
4 star service
made Capsa's name a well known commercial brand all over the continent. Having a very good position, this old and famous restaurant is placed right in the focal point of the Bucharest historical center. CC accepted. 36, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-313 40 38 Open: 12:00-24:00 Casa Doina: 5 C Large villa dating from the 19th century transformed into a very nice restaurant. Wine cellar. Terrace. C.C. accepted. 4, Soseaua Kiseleff. Ph.: 021-222-3179. Open: 12:00 - 01:00. Casa Doina La Parc: 2 A the perfect mix of Romanian and International cuisine; a traditional ambiance with modern elements. Its garden is the perfect place for our guests to spend the midday or Evening. 3-5 Poligrafiei Ave, (inside Ramada Parc Hotel), phone 021-315200 ; 021-549-2541. Open: 12:00 - 23:30. Chez Marie: 6 D Try the wide selection of international cuisine and special wines in this recently opened restaurant located in the heart of the city. 48, Dionisie Lupu St. Ph.: 031-107-2033; 0721-376-118. Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. Concerto: 7 D We recommend you will take your time to indulge in the special dishes of our fine dining restaurant,
32
Bucuresti what, where, when
Concerto. Concerto is a gastronomic restaurant based on a modern concept of cooking –“nouvelle cuisine”. Delicate dishes made up with creativity invites you in a delightful journey of tastes. The wine list is complex, including selections from all the regions of our country and also from France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, North and South America. A professional team will counsel you regarding the dishes and the wines, accompanying you through the whole meal. C.C. accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open: Mon. - Sat.: 12.00 –16.00; 19:00 - 23:00. Corso: 7 D You may take your business downtown and treat yourself and your partners with a special mix of international and Romanian cuisine, on a light lunch buffet. In the evening, a team of Romanian chefs wows you with authentic Romanian dishes presented with cosmopolitan attitude. The spectacular view on to the Bucharest’s busiest boulevard is complimentary! 85 seats. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4, N. Balcescu Blvd. - InterContinental Hotel - Ground floor, Ph.: 021-305-1060, Open: 06.30 - 23.00, Business Lunch Buffet Mon-Fri 12:00 - 16:00, enjoy“Great Brunch! Guest Love!”Kids room with entertainment. Dacia Felix: 6 D Group restaurant for 224 persons. Delicious breakfast buffet. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021311-9000; Open: Mon.-Fri. 6:30 - 10:30, Sat. & Sun. 7:00 11:00, Sunday Brunch 12:00 - 16:00. Hotel Marshal Restaurant: 7 E From the glassy salon, the open kitchen and the charming covered terrace, Marshal Restaurant is waiting for you with delicious dishes carefully selected and prepared in front of you. Our secret: the charcoal grill. Fresh imported Argentinean beef and New Zealand lamb. C.C accepted. Air conditioned. Guarded parking. 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St.; Ph.: 021-314-0880; Open: 07:00-01:00 Ici et La: Philippe Dupré, French chef, welcomes you in a warm ambience ideal for business lunches or family dinners. The restaurant has an open kitchen and a view to Piata Romana, where you will taste our specialties: home made smoked salmon, beef tartar or even a French cheese and charcuterie plate. Special evenings every Thursday. 43, Mendeleev St. Ph: 0731-453 608 Open: Mon.-Sat.10:00 to 23:00 Jadoo: 7 E Mediterranean & International cuisine restaurant. Special lunch offer - 20% discount (food only). Wood oven baked pizzas. Catering services available in neighborhood (12:00 - 15:00) Smoking and non-smoking areas. Parking lot available. C.C accepted. 3, Nicolae Racota St. entrance from Clucerului St.; Ph.: 021-222-0502; 0724-365583. Open: 12:00-until the last guest leaves (23:30 - last order) La Boema: 7 D Enjoy the European cuisine, the selected French dishes in the "La Boema" Restaurant. The relaxing atmosphere and the delicious dishes will make you realize why it is called "La Boema"... And if you have not understood yet, we bring especially for you an entire collection of refined wines. C.C. accepted. Air Conditioning, parking. Calea Vitan Barzesti; Ph.: 031-106-1111 ext. 345 Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves. Majestic: 7 D The Majestic Restaurant offers Romanian and International cuisine, accompanied by excellent service, in an attractive ambience. Capacity: 100 places; air conditioning, smoking/non-smoking areas, main CC accepted; summer terrace. Besides the Restaurant, Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel offers the clients Multi-functional Bal-
www.bucurestiwww.ro
lRooms - elegant locations for parties, weddings, cocktails. Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel – 38-40, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: (021) 310 27 20; Fax: (021) 310 27 99 Open: daily 07:00 – 23:00. Manolo: 6F Elegance, refinement, finesse, good taste, privacy and discretion, an ideal place for meetings. Top chefs spoil their guests with specialties and are waiting for you. Nelu Ploiesteanu, Rodica Cretu and their guest entertain you daily starting 18:00 hours. 97, Pache Protopopescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-252-4513; 0724-263-271 Poem: 9 D Modern European Cuisine. Indulge in the intimate and classic atmosphere, enjoy a refined menu and quality service. Offering breakfast, lunch & dinner, business lunch. Special wine collection and drinks at the Tower Bar or the Piano Club. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking lot. 23-25, Suter Entr. (Carol Parc Hotel) Ph : 021-336-3377; Open 07:00 – 1:00 Red Angus Steakhouse: 7 D Located in the Old Downtown of Bucharest, in front of the Old Court, this restaurant wants to be your first option for a steak. They are committed to provide you with outstanding hospitality and serving you the best steaks. Their USDA Choice steaks are highly marbled with enriching flavor, tenderness and juiciness of the meat. Whether you are planning a business dinner, an anniversary or a large corporate meeting, they will satisfy your preference in a friendly and professional manner. CC accepted, air conditioning, smoking and no smoking area, Wi-Fi, TV; 56 Franceza St, Old Town Ph: 021-312-0383 Open daily: 12:00-24:00 Sangria: 5 D International menu, few Spanish dishes, nice atmosphere. Open/covered terrace! C.C. accepted. 78, Caderea Bastiliei St. Ph.: 021-211-2276; Open: 12 pm - 12 am. Times Restaurant: 7 G Panoramic view restaurant with great Romanian and International cuisine at Golden Tulip Times Hotel. C.C. accepted. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-3166516. 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.: 0724388-686; 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:
6D
Northern Italian Menu restaurant for 106 persons. Enoteca, espresso bar, pizzeria, salumeria, gelateria, pasticceria, bakery in a fresh, natural, urban and contemporary mood. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-68, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-6013436. 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; 0744-333100. Open: Mon. - Sat. 12:00 - 23:00. Cucina: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Authentic Italian food served in rustic surroundings. Fine choice of wines. Calea 13 Septembrie 90. Ph. 021-403-1902. Open: 12:00 - 15:00; 19:30 – 23:30 De Gustibus: 6 F Restaurant, Terrace & Pizzeria. A menu dedicated to only the most simple, appetizing and brilliantly executed Italian dishes, mainly with a Tuscan twinge. Happy Hours 11:30 - 16:00, From Mon. to Fri. 10% Off. Air conditioned. CC accepted. Parking lot. 10, Marcel Iancu St. Ph. 021-211-1449; 0744-520106. Open: 12:00 - 24:00 Osteria Gioia: 5 C Delicious Italian food. Excellent wine selection. Modern, elegant interiors, well trained and friendly staff.16, Ion Mihalache Blvd; Ph.: 021-311-3750; Open 12:00 till late (23:00 last order). Modigliani: 7 D Pasta /Carne. An Italian Original. If you ever feel like savoring an authentic Italian dinner, come at the Modigliani restaurant you can be the guest of its Italian Chef, Andrea Aiudi. Home made pasta, basil, creamy sauces and a whole new world of flavors are waiting to be explored in its cozy atmosphere. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 9, Batistei St. (entrance also from the InterContinental lobby), Ph.: 0730-644-806, Open: Mon-Sat 18.00 - 04.00 Roberto’s: 6 D You’ll step into another world when you dine at Roberto’s, the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest hotel’s smart Italian restaurant. Soft lighting, frescoes of Italy on the walls and views of the terrace make this a romantic place for dinner. Locals and guests enjoy regional, authentic Italian food and an extensive list of wines. C.C. accepted. 13, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777; Open daily: 06:30 - 10:00; 12:00 - 23:00. Trattoria“Il Calcio”: 6 D Extensive menu of Italian dishes. Large selection of wines, beers and spirits. Nice interiors, relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff. 14, Mendeleev St. Ph.: 021-312-2430; 0722-134-299. Open: Sun - Thu: 12:00 - 24:00, Fri - Sat: 12:00 - 01:00. Zigolini: A taste of Italy in Zigolini Ristorante! A deliciously intimate dining experience nestled in the most elegant Galleria of Bucharest! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021-206-8069. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 (22:00 – last order).
MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE
230-3210, 0730 006 978. Open: 12:00-24:00 Il Giardino: Exclusive atmosphere; exotic cuisine; exquisite ambient. C.C. Accepted. 19, Clucerului St. Ph.: 021-223-1978; 0723-671-657. Open: 12:00 - till the last guest. Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete and intimate place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96; 0722-204884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00.
MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE Golden Falcon: 7 E Best Turkish restaurant in town. Full range of kebab dishes, Turkish aperitifs and traditional sweets. Catering service available. 18-20, Hristo Botev St. (near C.A. Rossetti Square). Ph.: 021314-2825; 313-2833. Open: 12:00 - 24:00.
ROMANIAN CUISINE 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. Count Dracula Club: 7 D Unique theme restaurant, with a cozy atmosphere. Transylvanian and venison dishes. C.C. accepted. 8A, Splaiul Independentei. Ph.: 021-312-1353; 0788-312-878. Open: 16:00 - until the last guest leaves. Decebal Rustic: G 7 Exquisite Romanian dishes. C.C. accepted. 17, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-321-67-00; 0723-515-009; Open:. 10:00 until the last guest leaves Decebal Classic: D4 NEW !!! Traditional Romanian cuisine, folk music band, select atmosphere, terrace. Business meetings, special events. C.C. accepted. 51, Barbu Vacarescu St. Ph: 0724 891 819; Open:10:00 until the last guest leaves Hanul Hangitei: 7 D Traditional Romanian cuisine. Daily special lunch offer. 16, Gabroveni St. Ph.: 021-314-7046. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves. Locanta Jaristea: A genuine taste of Romania, both food and atmosphere, a real part of the city’s history. C.C. accepted. Reservation neccessary! 50-52, George Georgescu St. Ph.: 021-335-3338; 0744.240.126; Fax: 021-301.98.45. Open: 11:00 - 02:00. Vatra: 7 D Romanian cuisine. Air conditioning. 23-25, Brezoianu St. Ph.: 021-315-8375; 0721-200-800; Open: 12:00 - 24:00.
place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96; 0 722-204-884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00.
VEGETARIAN CUISINE Casa Satya: Vegetarian and Fish Cuisine. Organic Ingredients and Wines. 25, Banu Manta Blvd. Piata Victoriei area, near sector 1 Town-Hall; Ph.: 0788-788-111
COFFEE SHOPS Caffe & Latte: 7 C Italian Coffee Bar & Pastries Shop. One of the best cappuccino in town, just like in Italy. You may come and try it with our homemade pastry. 35, Schitu Magureanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-3834. 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: 021313-9315; 021-313-9316
SEA FOOD La Veranda:: 2 A The restaurant is housed inside a glass terrace offering wonderful views of the garden outside. It serves exquisite fish and sea food as fresh as the day it was caught. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Smoking free, Outside Seating. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open daily: 12.00 – 23.00.
Alfresco - Restaurant & Lounge: Famous dishes from
SPANISH CUISINE
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 Gambero Rosso: 4 D Located in a small and charming villa in the center of the city, this place offers you an original menu, a mix between the famous Italian and French kitchens. Marcello, an Italian who lived almost all his life in France, opened this restaurant where you will find specialties from various parts of Italy and the day specialty, almost always French.Aviator Stefan Protopopescu Str., 64. Ph: 021-
Casa MarieAan: 6 C This new concept restaurant in Bucharest housed in a splendid building truly values the tradition of Spanish cuisine. Tapas bar; two upper level elegant & classy salons perfect for business lunch or romantic dinner and newly opened terrace; Spanish with Arabic influences decorated Cigar bar. Casa MarieAan imports and uses only the best natural & fresh ingredients. Live Flamenco Show, staring Lucas Molina. Friendly and highly trained staff; Smoking & non smoking area; CC accepted. 21, Crisana St. Ph: 021-310-96.66/ 0734-353-830. Open: 12:00 until the last guest leaves Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete and intimate www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
33
Crown Cafe: 2 A The cafe welcomes you with fine cream leather armchairs set around a small atrium in the inside garden of the hotel. Coffee, tea, beer, and - later in the evening - the perfect place for cocktails and digestive before bed. The cafe is an entirely‘smoking allowed’venue. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Outside Seating, Smoking free, Take Away, Wifi. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 09.00 – 02.00. La Galette Restaurant & Snacking: 2 B Relaxed & friendly dining atmosphere on the terrace. Wide range of snacks. French bakery. Cakes & pastries. Selection of Teas & Coffees. Take away. Designated Smoking Area. CC accepted.Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Saturday: 08:00 – 22:00; Sunday: 16:00 – 23:00; Ph.:021 202 1633; Hotel Pullman, 10 Montréal Square. Geisha Cafe: High quality coffe in a very popular downtown location. 10, C.A. Rosetti St. Ph.: 021-315-7298. Open: 08:30 - 24:00. Grand Cafe Galleron: Large selection of drinks & coffes, quality simple food. Charming interiors, cozy atmosphere. Located in the heart of the city close to Atheneum in a superb old villa. C.C. accepted. Air conditioning. 18A, Nicolae Golescu St. Ph.: 021-312-4565. Open: 09:00 - 24:00. Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest: Over 1500 sqm building; one of the largest HRCs in Europe, the new Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest has inside seating for 300 guests plus an outside terrace with a view over the lake and additional seating for 150. 32, Kiseleff Avenue. Ph.: 021-206-6261. Open: 12:00 23:30 Jolie Cafe: Ideal venue for a coffee break or a business meeting. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking lot. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St., groundfloor. Ph.: 021-206-8067. Open: daily 12:00 - 22:00. Kartell Cafe - Lounge: Nice cafe located downtown in historical part of the city. Friendly staff. Small summer terrace. St. Smardan 7. Ph.: 0749-057-770. Open: 10:00 - till last customer. Serendipity Tea House: 6 D Tea and lots of it. There are more than 55 types of tea available, including the trademark Serendipity, an aromatic yet fruity green tea with more than a hint of strawberries. A quiet location just off an otherwise busy central street make this superb choice for long, peaceful afternoons reading a good book with a great cup of tea or two. Oh, and we should point out that coffee menu is not bad either. CC accepted, free wireless internet available.12, Dumbrava Rosie St.Ph.: 021-211.31.00. Open: Mon.-Fri. 15:00-22:00, Sat.-Sun: 12:00-22:00 Tekaffe: 6 B In the beautiful surroundings of the city center, on Victoriei Ave., you can stop a while to pamper yourself with a special coffee or tea and enjoy a tasty cake. If you are leaving Bucharest by train, you can visit their second location near the North Railway Station to take a sandwich or salad for the road. The Tekaffe products are all made by a dedicated team in their own laboratory, with natural and fresh ingredients.143, Calea Grivitei. Ph.: 0372-121 821 Open daily 11:00 - 22:00; 56, Victoriei Ave. (the intersection with Ion Campineanu str.) Ph: 0372 010 327 Open: Mon-Fri 08.00 – 20.00 Sat 09:00 - 15:00 Times Cafe: Large selection of coffee, cocktails and fancy drinks, sandwiches, salads and deserts. Summer terrace. Within the Golden Tulip Times Hotel. C.C. accepted. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6516. Open: 09:00-23:00. Vienna Cafe: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Chocolate, pastry and cake lovers, this is the place for you - known to be so good that ladies go there for a lunch of cakes only! Viennese and International desserts, freshly baked tarts, cakes and pastries. Wedding cakes on order. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021-403-1901; Open: 09:00 - 23:00.
PUBS, COCKTAIL BARS & CLUBS L’Arpège Bar:The perfect place to meet your business partners or to enjoy a relaxing moment while drinking a delicious cocktail. CC accepted. Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Sunday: 08:30 – 01:30; Ph.:021 202 1632; Hotel Pullman, 10 Montréal Square. Bar“37”: 7 D Bar 37 gives you the opportunity to experience the excellent view of Victoriei Boulevard, while enjoying a glass of wine or a gourmet meal among friends.
34
Bucuresti what, where, when
Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 00. Open Mon-Fri: 07:00 02:00, Sat-Sun: 09:00 - 02:00. Bla Lounge Bar: 6 D Centre ice bar in atrium for 108 persons. Vodka, Cocktails, Beverages & Snacks in a hear, feel, taste mood. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 09:00 - 02:00; Sun. 09:00 - midnight. Centro Bar & Lounge: 6 D The perfect place for a business meeting or for a relaxing drink after a busy day. Our fresh selection of sandwiches, salads and pastry products make it a convenient place for any time of the day. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Open daily 09:00 – 00:30 Champions: 8 B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. The American Sports Bar and Restaurant. A place for good food, good times and good sports. Live TV Sport coverage on 27 flat screen TV sets. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021403-1917;Open: 17:00 - 01:00 . Club InterContinental Lounge: 7 D With a contemporary design an authentic touch, this is the perfect place for a meeting, networking, a light meal or just for relaxation, reading, listening to music and watching the unique city view. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4 Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. - InterContinental Hotel, 21st floor, Ph.: 021310-2020 Open: 06.30 - 10.30 Dark Bla Bar: 6 D Cognac & cigars bar for 34 persons. Single Malts, Cognacs & Cigars in an upscale & late night mood. CC accepted. Smoking. 63-81, Calea Victorie, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 17:00 - 02:00. Dreamer’s Pub & Restaurant 6 C Real pub atmosphere! Draught Guinness, live sports, darts and a wide variety of pub and international food. In the summer we invite you on our amazing terrace located on the roof of the pub and enjoy our large selection of fine wines and cocktails. 111, G-ral Berthelot St. (close to Casa Radio). Ph: 0744.366.350, 0723.112.200. www.dreamers.ro Open Mon – Fri: 10 AM - until the last guest Sat & Sun: 2 PM - until the last guest English Bar: 6 D Relax in the soft lighting and traditional decor of the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest hotel's inviting English Bar. Choose from over 40 whiskies, sip a cocktail or order form the international snackmenu. Enjoy a Cuban cigar to round off your night. C.C. accepted. St. Episcopiei 13. Ph.: 021-303-3777/ ext. 6759. Open: 11:00-02:00. The Epoque Lounge Bar: This is the place for powerful business meetings but also for relaxation in front of one of the fireplace, while enjoying a refined drink or just peaceful music. The Epoque Bar welcomes you with its intimate and refined atmosphere, fireplace, terrace and a fine selection of wines and cigars, daily, from 6:30 to 23:00 hrs. Wireless Internet is available in the Lounge just as
www.bucurestiwww.ro
all around the hotel. The facilities are: smoking and non-smoking feature; nice and cosy summer terrace, free high speed WI-FI internet access; air conditioning; daily newspaper; CC accepted, guarded free parking lot. 17C, Aurora Entr. (Epoque Hotel); Ph.: 021-312-3232. Open: 06:30 – 23:00. The Dubliner Irish Pub: 5 B Genuine Irish atmosphere. Draught beer. Air-conditioned. Very popular among the members of the English speaking community. 18, Titulescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-222-3737; 021-222-9473. Open: 12:00 - 02:00. 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, tube-shaped bar, with live, trippy jazz-rock on one end and cozy couches on the other-like spending an evening in a surreal submarine. Also a relaxing outdoor patio that's packed on weekend nights. Music most nights after 9 pm.. Morning coffee or nightly cocktails. 120, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 0722-234-356. Open: non-stop The Harp Irish Pub: 8 D Very popular Irish hangout with great selection of beer, a warming atmosphere downstairs complete with fireplaces candle-lit tables and extensive seating upstairs. Guaranteed to be packed with younger Romanians and expats alike any weekend evening. The second Irish hangout in Bucharest. Air-conditioning. C.C. accepted. 1, Piata Unirii. Ph.:021-335-6508. Open: 09:00 - until the last guest leaves. Intermezzo Piano Bar: 7 D Just the way you might imagine a classic bar: sophisticated but relaxed, chic but comfortable. Located just off the InterContinental Hotel lobby, Intermezzo offers live piano music in the evenings, creating the perfect backdrop after a long working day. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4. Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., Ph.: 021-310-2020, Open: 08.00 - 01.00 James Joyces: 6 C A real Iris pub run by real paddy. 1-3, Valter Maracineanu Sq. Ph.021-311-4177; Just Opened. Mora: 4 C comes to redefine the bar concept, offering customers the chance to taste a wide variety of French champagnes, wines and liquors, as well as champagnebased cocktails. Whether a light and sophisticated lunch, an afternoon business coffee or an aperitivo, a quality evening with friends before a night out listening to live DJ mixes. Parking lots available. Smoking venue. 22, Paris St. Reservations: 0748-544-911. Opened daily from 12:00 until late in the night. Onx Pub: 6 A Lot of fun, karaoke, live concerts & special parties. 290, Splaiul Independentei, Regie P16 Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. Orange Bar (lobby bar): If you are looking for a place to enjoy the highest standards, a perfect coffee, fresh sand-
wiches, sft drinks and the best cognac in town, you most go high, go North! C.C. accepted. 44A, Daniel Danielopolu. St. Ph.: 021-233-5000 Open: daily 10:00-24:00 Pavilion Lounge: 8B Within the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Your favorite drink, accompanied by Chef’s choice of canapés, in a relaxed atmosphere. CC accepted. 90, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-403-1904. Open: nonstop. 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. 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. Tribute: 6 D First class venue, great live music. 118, Calea Victoriei, Ph.: 0728-742-883; Open: Wed. : 21:00 - 02:00; Thu. - Sat.: 21:00 - 05:00. Victoria Club: 7 D Classic mahogany furniture, leather Chesterfield sofas, warm beige nuances, exquisite services... these are the fine details that will catch your eye and soul in our English Bar – Victoria Club. Here you can taste our delicate teas & coffees brews while engaging in succulent conversation during traditional English afternoon tea time, taste some of our delicious snacks and try something from the list of over 100 spirits. Cigars are available to round off
your evening. C.C. accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: 0372 010 300 Open: 09:00 - 24:00. White Horse: 4 D Pub & Restaurant. English & International cuisine. Wide selection of draught beers. CC accepted. 4A G. Calinescu St. Ph.: 021-231-2795. Open: 12:00 until the last guest leaves.
OTHERS 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: 11.00-23.00. 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 Diamond Club & Massage: 30, Regina Elisabeta Blvd, Ph.: 0727-402-436, 0751-370-490 Disco Club Maxx: 290, Splaiul Independentei, www.clubmaxx.ro; Ph.: 021-223-00-39 Embryo: 3, Ion Otetelesanu St., www.embryo.ro Ph.: 0727-379-023 Fuchsia: 18, I. Brezoianu St., www.fuchsia.ro Ph.: 0727-315-713 Gossip: 9-11, Lanariei St., www.clubgossip.ro Ph.: 0721-GOSSIP Kristal Glam Club: 2, J.S. Bach St., ww.clubkristal.ro Ph.: 021-231-21-36, 0721-993-988 Music Club: 31, Baratiei St. Ph.: 021-314-61-97 The Office: 8, Tache Ionescu St., www.theoffice.ro Ph.: 021-211-67-48 Posh Club: 19, Orhideelor Ave., www.clubposh.ro Ph.: 0751-157-575 Session: 47-49, Elefterie St., www.session.ro Ph.: 0729-292-541, 0721-151-649
Studio Martin: 41, Iancu de Hunedoara Blvd., www.studiomartin.ro. Ph.: 0722-399-228 Temple: 25, Splaiul Independentei, www.clubtemple.ro; Ph.: 0748-881-086, 313-35-75, 0727-297-610
MASSAGE PARLOURS Erotic Massage: 50 passion girls in 5 locations same quality and services for your sensual and relaxing moments. www.erotic-masaj.ro J’Adore: Phone: 0735-885-522 VIP Zone: Phone: 0735-885-511 Thai Passion: Phone: 0730-331-133 Jade Palace: Phone: 0730-881-188 Exotique: Phone: 0735-885-500 Ibiza Massage: Erotic, Double, Body and Relaxing Massage. Phone: 021-316-9929; 0727-239-744; www.ibizamassage.ro Karma Massage: Erotic body & relaxing massage. Hotel visits or free car to the downtown salon and back (in 20 min). Free minibar. Open non-stop. By appointment, Ph.: 0722-699-488; 021-327-3884; www.karmamassage.ro Perfect Massage: Erotic, Double, Body and Relaxing Massage. Phone: 0733 571 690 www.perfectmassage.ro www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
35
• Volume 17 • Number 10 • • December 2010 - January 2011 • Published by Crystal Publishing Group srl. http://www.bucurestiwww.ro
Publisher: LUDWIG GELOBTER Coordinating Editor: GABRIEL ARSENE offce@bucharestlife.com Senior Editor: David Beynon
THE LAST WORD
Web S te: Vlad Alexandrescu Editorial Dept. e-ma l: office@bucurestiwww.ro Photos:
Dear Reader, Crystal Publishing Group 253, Calea Calarasilor Bl 67 A, Suite 4 Bucharest, Romania Phone & Fax: (004021) 323-3829; (004021) 323-7033, (004021) 323-4706 Financ al Manager: Victoria Serban
Every year, in November, as I sit down to write “The Last Word“, the phrase ‘how quickly time flies’ comes to my mind. It has been a difficult year for our company, as well as for Romania, and it seems that when you are going through a difficult period, time moves rather slowly. The coming year will not be easy, but I believe that we will see the early signs of a recovery. So maybe “time will fly” again. While major business deals may have been delayed, or even cancelled, smaller investors seem to be taking advantage of lower costs and favorable market conditions, to move forward with their plans. Over the past months, several new hotels have opened in Bucharest, and renovations and new restaurants openings are moving forward apace in the historic City Center. This is the season when most of us are reminded of the importance of family, Fall and early winter is the time of celebration. Whether it is the Hindu Festival of Lights, Divali, the Islamic Eid, the American Thanksgiving, The Jewish Chanukah, and culminating
with the Christian Christmas, we gather our families together and celebrate. The exchanging of gifts has become a part of most of the celebrations, so of course it is a big shopping season, and nowhere can you shop more or better than in Bucharest these days. In addition to clothing or jewelry offered at “sale“ prices, as a visitor, you should consider one of the traditional folkloric products. You can find wood carvings, blown glass, stoneware, or silver jewelry, all made by hand, with loving care. If you are reading this before the Holidays, don’t forget the folks back home, and if it is after the Holidays, then surely the January price reductions will make buying something, irresistible. The staff of Crystal Publishing Group joins me in wishing all our readers a Happy Holiday and a healthy and prosperous New Year. Ludwig Gelobter Publisher lgelobter@bucurestiwww.ro
Marketing & Sales Department Senior Sales Executive: Sorin Patrascu sorin.patrascu@bucurestiwww.ro Sales Representative: Onut Gheorghe e-mail: advertising@bucurestiwww.ro GRAPHIC & DTP OFFICE Mihai-Cristian Rampelt mihai.r@bucurestiwww.ro To Advertise in Bucuresti What, Where, When call: Phone & Fax: (004021) 323-3829; (004021) 323-7033 (004021) 323-4706 or e-mail at: advertising@bucurestiwww.ro North America US Internat onal Office 201B, Travis Street, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA Ph: +1 337 704 0554 Annual subscription Roman a 80,00 Lei Payable to Crystal Publishing Group Banca Comerc ala Romana – filiala sector 4 Bucharest Account no.: RO08 RNCB 0075035221160001 (Lei). For all other countries Euro 36,00. Please send the order and a check or money order to Crystal Publishing Group 201B, Travis Street, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA Circulation up to 18,500 cop es. Distr buted on a complimentary basis in major hotels: Alexander, Ambasador, angelo Airport Hotel, Armonia, Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest, Bucharest City Hotel, Capitol, Caro, Carol Parc, Central, Centre Vi le Aparthotel & Elite Apartments, Class, Confort Otopeni, Confort Traian, Crowne Plaza, Dalin, Dalin Center, Duke, Elizeu, Golden Tulip Times, Golden Tulip Bucharest, Hello Hotels, Herastrau, Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Ibis Gara de Nord, Ibis Palatul Parlamentului, Inter-Continental, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, Lev Or, Marshal, Minerva, NH Bucharest, Novotel Bucarest City Centre, Parl ament, Pullman Bucharest, Radisson BLU Bucharest, Ramada Majestic Bucharest, Ramada Bucharest North, Ramada Parc, Ramada Plaza, Rembrandt, Rin, Rin Grand, Starlight Suite Hotels, Tempo, Venetia; Airlines and airline off ces: A r France, Air Malta, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, Balkan Air, British Airways, Carpatair, CSA, EL AL, Emirates, Eurojet Aviation KLM, LOT, Lufthansa, Malev, Olympic Airways, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, SN Brussels Airlines, Swiss Int’l. Air Lines, Turkish Airl nes; rent a car agencies; government offices, business centers, important banks & consulting companies.
B3W is a Romania Audit Bureau of Circulation (BRAT) Audited Publication
© 2010 Crystal Publishing Group, srl. ISSN 1222-5703 All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Reproducerea articolelor fara acordul scris al editorului este interzisa. The Publisher accepts no respons b lity for the content of advertisements. Bucuresti What Where When Magazine is printed on paper originated from sustainable managed forests. Printed by: Coprint
36
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro