BUCURESTIWWW DEC 2009 - JAN 2010 by CRYSTAL PUBLISHING GROUP

C O N T E N T S

editorial

DECEMBER 2009 - JANUARY 2010 SHOPPING In the World of Jewellery 6 Christmas Shopping Selection 8 COVER STORY When Winter Comes to Bucharest 10 SPECIAL Cozonac, the Smell of Romanian Holidays 12 INTERVIEW “Younger generations with new 10 and greater idealism...” 12 04, 34 DEPARTMENTS • News, Events and Attractions • The Last Word

Dracula: Modern Fantas y and Contemporar y Truth

City Life

ESSENTIAL INFO • HOTELS • MUSEUMS • SHOW BIZ • CULTURAL INSTITUTES • CITY MAP

Business

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

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Stores and More Haute Cuisine Nightlife

GLOBAL WARMING IS REAL! The Green Generation Association has worked out the first CO2 emission computer in Romania. It forms the basis of the national study which was carried out by the Ecological University in Bucharest on the actual average of CO2 emissions on a national and local level. In less than 100 months, the fight for prevention will become a fight for survival with climate changes, according to the European

Commission’s experts and reports. The “Carbon Fingerprint - Find Out How Much of Your Future You Are Wasting!” national campaign is the first material step in a series of actions which the Green Generation Association will initiate in the fight against climate change. The climax will take place in 2015. This campaign has also benefited from a TV advertisement which has been broadcast for three months by TVR (The Romanian National Television Station) and the National Geographic Channel.

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Sorana MAN •

A royal-rank bloody character with supernatural powers, a vampire haunting the nights in a dark and ghastly castle built long ago, in the Middle Ages - this description sums up the hero of the story imagined by Bram Stocker in 1897, which has made its way round the world and which is also subject of several films. Despite having very little in common with historical reality, the story that takes place in the 19th century still manages to draw attention to one of the first rank names from our past. Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler), ruler of Valachia in the middle of the 15th century, received the surname of Draculea according to the Dragon’s Order (a type of military-religious society fighting against the Ottoman empire) which his father, Vlad Dracul, had been vested with. The order’s coat of arms was represented by a dragon and a cross, and in Romanian a “dragon” was called a “drac” (devil). Draculea had no paranormal powers whatsoever, but he remained in the Romanian people’s memory and in the pages of history as the symbol of intransigence, being famous for the harsh measures with which he punished wrong doing of all kinds, from lies or petty thefts to murder. Moreover, the name of Tepes (“The Impaler”) is also a nickname, coming from the Romanian word “teapa” (pale), as Vlad did not hesitate to impale on a pole the head of anyone who committed any type of crime. It is said that he left a gold chalice in plain sight, in the central market of Targoviste. The chalice could be used by thirsty travelers, but it had to remain in its place. According to historical sources, the chalice was never stolen during his reign. The connection between pale, devil and vampire seems to be as strong - if we were to think of the words meaning - as it is random, despite the fact that, throughout modern fantasy, the third situation derives from the first two. It could just as well be assumed that once you are called a “drac”, the already existing inclination towards certain harshness, closely related to cruelty, is encouraged, supported and even emphasized by this very name. However, those who have used the “devil” meaning of the word “drac” in order to highlight the prince’s cruelty were precisely his political detractors. The numerous readers fascinated by Dracula’s story can let themselves be enchanted once again by the sequel written by Dacre Stocker, the great-grandnephew of Bram Stoker, together with Ian Holt. Dracula: The Un-Dead relates a new series of adventures of the fearsome count, “the prince of darkness”, which take place around 1912. Since September, the novel has been published in Great Britain, Ireland, France, Canada and the United States, and the translation copyrights were sold for 17 languages in 24 countries. For their book, the authors used 124 pages of the notes written by Bram Stocker for a potential future novel. Those of us who live in today's Romania, even for a short while, cannot help but think, with a barbaric nostalgia, of the iron hand of Tepes. Twenty years after the fall of communism, celebrated this December, the biggest deficit of the Romanian society seems to be a moral one. Thus, sometimes, we get the unchristian thought that a “drac” would not be bad for us today. The same great ruler was the first to name the settlement on these places Bucharest, as we remembered with the release of the anniversary volume “Bucuresti – 550 de ani de la prima atestare documentara” (“Bucharest - 550 Years From Its First Documentary Certification”) in November. The album, co-ordinated by Radu Olteanu and published by ArCub - The Cultural Project Center of the Bucharest Mayoralty, reproduces over 400 photographs and old stamps from the collections of the Romanian Academy’s Library, of the Municipality of Bucharest’s Museum, of the National Military Museum, of the National Archives, as well as from a few private collections, from books, magazines and newspapers of the past. Artifacts reproduced in the book are from the museums’ old art collections, and they are accompanied by modern or recent photographs.

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NEWS, EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS December is the festive season, par excellence. Our capital wears festive garments like most of us, who have already prepared our elegant suits and evening gowns. Thousand of coloured lights garnish the boulevards, as well as the parks. The main character of the season reigns in the parks and people’s homes: the Christmas tree, and beneath it, the attractive and mysterious packages of presents. Everyone chooses, buys and offers gifts everywhere. Irrespective of where you live in Romania, in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the cities or in the villages so full of traditions, one thing is sure: both New Year's Eve and Christmas Eve will bring memorable moments.

RUN-OFF PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS On December 6, Romanian citizens will chose their president by voting for one of the two candidates who qualified for this run-off as a result of the elections that took place on November 22. Traian Basescu, the current president, is the candidate of the Liberal-Democrat Party and he won around 32% of the votes, while Mircea Geoana, the candidate of the Social-Democrat Party, was voted by 30% of the electorate.

“ANNA KARENINA” AT THE OPERA The Bucharest National Opera has prepared a wonderful surprise for all dance fans, the revival of the “Anna Karenina" ballet, based on the novel by Leo Tolstoi. The show has an enviable history on the stage of the Bucharest Opera. Its premiere on November 8, 1998 was a huge success, due mainly to the stage direction and choreography by master Ioan Tugearu. This season, ONB plans to revive the breathtaking atmosphere of this performance, thus bringing back to life the sad story of Anna Karenina, with a magnificent cast including Corina Dumitrescu – Anna Karenina and Gigel Ungureanu – Alexei Karenin. No Tchaikovsky fan or true dance amateur can miss this show on the evenings of December 3 and 6.

SOUVENIRS Before sliding down on our chimneys, Santa Claus will open his bag full of surprises in a preview at Romexpo. For several days, December 3-6, the centre will host the 14th edition of the international gift exhibition, suggestively called Souvenirs. Globes and tinsel, ornamental candles and floral designs for special occasions, toys, jewellery, cosmetics, glass works, icons, decorative items, they will all enchant buyers filled by fever of the holidays drawing nearer.

KIDEX – WINTER 2009 Each year Kidex, the most joyful children fair, welcomes you with a lot of brave elves who offer you high quality products for the little ones: foods, baby feeding, bathing

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and hygiene items, medicines, vitamins and supplements, furniture, decorative articles, baby carriages, car seats, cradles, walking frames, bicycles and tricycles and much more. Kidex is fun, entertainment and December 3-6 all kids are expected to visit Santa's home at Romexpo with their parents and grandparents! Santa has decorated his home and is preparing secret surprises for children of all ages who will come to visit him. Fairies, reindeer, sleighs with bells, snowmen, fairytale characters, games, toys, and lots of colourful lollipops are awaiting all children at Kidex.

DEMIS ROUSSOS IN CONCERT Demis Roussos will perform again in Bucharest, on December 4 at Sala Palatului. In addition to his basic repertoire, the Greek artist will also perform songs that will make us feel the holiday joy: Ave Maria, Silent Night or Amazing Grace. Demis Roussos received more than 100 golden, platinum and diamond discs throughout the years. His real name is Artemios Ventouris Roussos, born in Alexandria, Egypt, on June 15, 1946. He has worked with many bands like; The Idols, We Five and Aphrodite’s Child, with the latter being a progressive rock band he organized with Vanghelis Papathanassiou and Loukas Sideras during the French students’ revolution of 1968. His solo debut was a success, with his songs still occupying top positions in many rankings around the world. This spring Demis Roussos launched a new album, Demis, and will be performing several songs on this album at the Bucharest concert.

SAINT NICHOLAS FAIR Folk art producers from all over the country will come to Muzeul Taranului Roman (Museum of the Romanian Peasant) during period December 4th-6th, bringing with them wicker works, fabrics, embroideries, musical instruments, pottery, toys.

SIMPLE MINDS One of the most popular bands of the 80s and 90s, the Scottish Simple Minds will perform at Sala Polivalenta on December 15

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as part of the promotion tour of their latest album Graffiti Soul, launched in 2009. The band includes of the founding members Jim Kerr, Charlie Burchill (guitar, keyboards) and Mel Gaynor (drums), as well as Andy Gillespie (keyboards) and Eddie Duffy (bass guitar).

“SANTA'S LAND” GIFT FAIR "Santa’s Land” Gift Fair (Tara lui Mos Craciun) to be on December 15-20 at the Children’s Palace (Palatul Copiilor) and will bring you some Holiday magic and the joy of giving. More than 50 manufacturers of unusual gifts will welcome you in a warm and festive atmosphere. We all become kids once again in December; we are joyful and filled with enthusiasm as the Christmas holidays draw closer. Santa's Land offers you gifts for children of all ages or you can even rent a Santa Clause. Santa’s reindeer will definitely be exhausted after bringing Santa’s bag to Bucharest, which is overloaded this year!

HARLEM GOSPEL CHOIR The Romanian public will have the opportunity to meet the famous Harlem Gospel Choir in a remarkable show called “World Music Masters” at Sala Palatului on December 21. The Harlem Gospel Choir was set up in 1986 by Allen Bailey, and is today of the the most famous choir groups in the United

States. Combining spiritual music and Christian parables with blues rhythms and chords, gospel music originates from church hymns specific to the black communities in the USA. The repertoire includes some of the most beautiful gospel songs, such as “Lord, I'm Coming Home”, “Surely God is Able”, “There Will Be Peace in the Valley”, “O Happy Day”, “Amen” or “When the Saints Go Marching In”, which will definitely bring the emotion and power of faith into the listeners’ souls.

HIGH ALTITUDE WINTER HOLIDAYS On the occasion of the winter holidays, the InterContinental Hotel welcomes its guests with the traditional festive Christmas cake (cozonac) and ginger bread, a Christmas tree and carols. A high-altitude party is in store for you on New Year's Eve! Every Sunday in December the Corso Brasserie offers festive brunches, in a traditional setting and traditional foods, with a children’s play area where fairies and elves will announce the coming of Santa Claus. On December 25, the newly refurbished Fortuna Hall on the 21 floor will host a Christmas Brunch. On the evenings of December 24, 25, 26 Christmas dinner will be served at the Corso Brasserie. According to Romanian tradition, you must wear something new on New Year's Eve, be in a new place and have fruits on the table, as a symbol of wealth. Other peoples also celebrate New Year's Eve with special dishes which are believed to bring good luck. The InterContinental executive chef will cook a “lucky menu” for the guests present on New Year’s Eve, inspired from the most famous cuisines of the world.

broianu, Zoe Vida-Porumb, Alexandru Ghildus etc., but also artists from the younger generation: Petru Radu Buba, Liliana Marilena Craciun, Irina Raluca Ionescu, Valentina Stoica. The exhibition is open Tuesday to Sunday, between 9.30-17.30.

CLASSICAL EVENINGS AT THE ATHENAEUM The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic invites us to a Beethoven-Brahms program on Wednesday, January 13 and Friday, January 15, at the Romanian Athenaeum. The pieces to be interpreted are Fidelio Overture and Concerto no.5 for piano, by Ludwig van Beethoven, and Symphony no.3 by Johannes Brahms. Conductor: Tobias Gossmann. Soloist: Fujiko Hemming. More details on the program of the Athenaeum on page 4

WINTER DUETS, DECEMBER 31 Starting at 8 PM until….2010! At JW Marriott, the night between the years is a spectacular discovery of opposites and the attraction between them. In the 10th year of the millennium you are invited to spend a night as a game, it only depends on which hall you choose to be in, and what kind of party you prefer: Fire and Ice, Yin and Yang, From Classic to Cool, Old and New, Le Rouge et le Noir. A little before midnight, you will be taken aback by a new rule of the game: this time in front of the hotel, for a glass of Champgne and a mini-concert. New Year's Eve will make its grand entrance in a splendid display of lights and fireworks. Starting 12.30 the game will continue at the Vienna Cafe. This time with no opposites, only the harmony brought to you by musical duets: special guests include Horia, Lora, Miki and Andreea, in a festive performance.

NATIONAL SALON OF DECORATIVE ART This event's 10th edition, inaugurated late October and open until January 10, is held in the Cantacuzino Cellars of the Cotroceni National Museum. Works of 91 decorative artists are displayed here: tapestry, textile printing, porcelain, glass and metal decorative art forms. Renowned Romanian artists are represented here by their works: Traian Stefan Boicescu, Lucian Butucariu, Cela Neamtu, Ioan Nemtoi, Karoly-Zold Gyongyi, Gheorghe Gogescu, Nicolae Zimwww.bucurestiwww.ro

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Soloist: Florin Paul Haydn – Theresienmesse Soloists: Irina Iordachescu, Stefania Bolos, Bogdan Mihai, Gheorghe Rosu

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

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

DECEMBER 2009 Thursday December3&Friday December4 The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Misha Katz Soloist: Dan Grigore Rachmaninov - Vocalise - Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini - The Bells Soloists: Iulia Artamanov, Ruben Muresan, Ionut Pascu

Thursday December 10&Friday December 11 The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Gottfried Rabl Soloist: Raphael Wallfisch Sibelius – Okeanides Gerald Finzi – Concerto for cello and orchestra – f.a. Sibelius – Symphony no. 2

Thursday December 17&Friday December18 The Symphony Orchestra of the

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Wednesday Januar y 13&Friday Januar y15 „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Jochen Wehner Mendelssohn – Paulus Oratorio Soloists: Lavinia Mamot, Geanina Munteanu, Constantin Cocris, Ruben Muresan Chorus conductor: Iosif Ion Prunner

The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Tobias Gossmann Soloist: Fujiko Hemming Beethoven – Fidelio Overture Beethoven – Concerto no.5 for piano Brahms – Symphony no.3

Wednesday December 23&Thursday December 24

Thursday Januar y 21&Friday Januar y 22

The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Octav Callea Vivaldi – Gloria Soloist: Mihaela Ispan Handel - Goettingen Te Deum Soloist: Marius Bolos Viorel Munteanu – Romanian Carols

JANUARY 2010 Thursday Januar y 7&Friday Januar y 8 The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Florentin Mihaescu Sibelius – Concerto for violin

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The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Theo Wolters Soloist: Paavali Jumppanen Rachmaninov – Concerto no.3 for piano Prokofiev – Aleksandr Nevski Chorus conductor: Iosif Ion Prunner

Thursday Januar y 28&Friday Januar y 29 The Symphony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic Conductor: Gianluca Marciano Soloist: Aquilles Delle Vigne Wagner – Meistersinger Overture Liszt – Concerto no.2 for piano Dvorak – Symphony no.7

shopping

In the World of Jewellery Marcela GRATIANU •

hey say a beautiful woman is a jewel. But it is equally true that a beautiful jewel can save even the least attractive woman from anonymity, it can make her special. Beautiful or not, women have always been aware of this fact, so that it is no wonder we feel so good in the world of jewellery. All the more so at Christmastime, during the winter holidays, when we want to be more glamorous than ever. The closer the winter season draws, the less grey, more shining Bucharest gets. The world of jewellery is increasingly more tempting and shiny, just like the holiday itself. So I and my mother-in-law decided to cope with the challenges of this December together. So there we are one evening, arm in arm, two women, quite different, but with several common passions – literature, music, jewellery, shopping... “Dream... look to the sky... aim at the stars... live your dream!” - a daring thought with which Oxette Jewelers welcome us and, once dared, we enter to see the autumn-winter 2009-2010 Constellation collection, influenced by the 80s, a combination of glam punk and technology, but also vintage notes. This winter’s trends are combined in a new concept: a combination of elaborate femininity and the dynamism of the modern woman. Grey and black, the collection’s dominant colours, the combination of silver, golden silver, bronze, purple and electric blue, they all come to life in jewels with shiny mineral “Stone-Stars”, created by the team of Italian and Greek designers. We pick a group of jewels we make up on the spot – we opt for silver and black as the defining elements.

As we are curious by nature, we want to also see the novelties suggested by Folli Follie under the concept “Luxury products at accessible prices”. For this season, Folli Follie has launched “All that Jazz”, a complete collection of bags, watches and fantasy accessories – pendants in the form of high heel shoes, red lips specific to pop culture, glossy clutches, love rings and elegant watches with shiny stones. Inspired by the fashion of the 20s-30s, the “All that Jazz” line brings the originality of those times to the forefront, by concurrently surprising and challenging the modern woman. My mother-in-law buys, with a slight emotion, the last piece of the model suggestively called pearl jazz hand carrier for herself, an elegant bag, with a classic line adorned with romantic elements – roses and pearls. I already look at her with envy. But that’s OK, we’ll get to Frey Wille after all… Newcomers on the Bucharest market the first mono-brand store in Romania was inaugurated in October - the luxury Frey Wille art creations, originating in Vienna, are fascinating due to their combination of colours. They are inspired by old Greek and Egyptian art, but also by the art of some great painters like Gustav Klimt and Claude Monet. They were born at the hands of masters of gold moulding and of enamel and colour art, and are tiny works of art. The latest jewellery collection reminds us of the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, his love of oriental roofs, and the theme “Onion towers" resulted in the development of a design in which red and green, the noble colours, intertwine in a game of nuances on a contrasting black background. The jewels match the variety of colours used for the women’s accessory line – belts, handbags, bags, scarves -, and the men’s accessories - cufflinks, belts, ties. Absorbed and insistently analysing each piece in turn, I don’t even realize there is a passionate discussion unfolding nearby: a brand representative and a distinguished lady fond of painting are watching, comparing and fail to reach an agreement on the detailed ties between Hundertwasser paintings, which are reproduced in one of the art catalogues, and the jewels. Colours, natural forms, curved lines in spirals, they are all mercilessly analysed and criticized by the distinguished lady fond of paintinga. And I am beginning to understand that, whatever I do, my mind will always go back to those wonderful bracelets, if I don’t buy at least one. But I choose two, who knows…? And a scarf. Wait! And a tie matching my clothes for my husband - how could I forget? Once we get to the old central area of Bucharest, we stop to admire the jewels designed by David Sandu, already famous for his exhibitions at the Romanian and foreign art galleries, but the workshop is already closed. We find comfort in the thought that in Sep-

tember, during the “George Enescu” Festival, we were able to see, at the Sala Palatului, his exhibition of unique creations, author’s jewellery that highlight the simplicity of forms and colour, asymmetry and tri-dimension. What is interesting and original is the connection between the stones rarely found in a polished state (volcanic lava, purpurite, malachite-lapis lazuli, Honduras opal, sweet water pearls with rubies mounted on the surface of a pearl) and the metal in which they are embedded (silver and copper with undefined forms), as well as the kinetic art and the acoustics of setting. Other items express, in an innovative way the relationship between the stone and the hand, either through a labyrinth or a Greek wave, or by leaving anatomy to integrate in the aesthetics of the jewel, thus perfecting it after it is placed on the finger. Gold and diamonds, engagement rings and wedding rings, necklaces and diadems, these can be found in the collections of the French Korloff jewellery store, the more so, as it seems we will soon be celebrating such an event in our family. The romantic Alliances collection of the Korloff designers suggests wedding rings designed as two halves representing the bride and the bridegroom, while the collection of wedding contrast rings offers you rings of various shapes and gold colours. All the jewels are made by hand at the alliance of jewellers in Lyon and the dynasty of inlayers in Antwerp. Whether you are experiencing a special moment or are just looking for the appropriate present for someone you love or even for yourself, and you choose to buy a piece of jewellery, don’t forget it has the power of a talisman: it holds a story it tells over and over again every time it is worn, and in the end it becomes a part of you.

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cover story

WHEN WINTER COMES T Catalina SOLOVEANU •

Traditions from the countryside are still followed in Bucharest, from the foods which are prepared to the well wishers and carol singers who come to our doors during the whole month of December. Children come in twos and threes to sing traditional blessing songs which wish you a good New Year and hope for money and get sweets in exchange. Small choirs of young people go from one apartment building to another, singing Christmas Carols that echo in the staircases all the way to the top, giving the sound a certain purity as if in a high church.

omania is a country with a temperate climate, or so the meteorologists say. There are four seasons, none too harsh or extreme and because the land is rich and diverse, it is a joy to experience it any time during the year, be it spring, summer, autumn or winter. Each season comes in many different colors and temperatures, sometimes cheekily surprising you. This year the pleasantly warm October suddenly gave way to a frozen November but then summer decided it wanted a last dance so up into the 20C went the temperatures again. It is beautiful and exciting, never knowing what tomorrow brings. Still, winter is unmistakably approaching and it will soon quiet all of nature except for the city and its people. Let’s hope that this winter is gentle and that beautiful white snow will once again cover Baragan and the Romanian Plain, the region of Romania where Bucharest reigns. Maybe a veil of white will set over the capital, turning it into a glittering, magical place for a morning, an afternoon or a night. While reality will soon show its face in muddy puddles of melting snow and traffic jams, those few hours when big snowflakes fall and the city grows quiet are a pleasure to experience. If you are here on one of those days, try walking in Cismigiu Park on one snowy morning or around the main boulevards, from Piata Unirii to Piata Victoriei in the evening and you will understand, once more, the amazing power of transformation nature has. Bucharest is a large and busy city where far too often cars and people overcrowd the streets, shops and restaurants. This can be unpleasant and stressful but it might also be a sign that Romanians live a bit better than they used to, that we are learning to enjoy life more as time goes by and the harsh memories of the Communist period are diminishing. After all, this December we are celebrating 20 years since the 1989 Revolution.

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This city has many different faces, and winter is a great time to visit. It can be cheerful like the Christmas trees and glittering decorations that fill its streets, precious and pure with freshly fallen snow, muddy and exasperating when the temperatures rise and all the white melts into an endless maddening puddle. It can be icy cold, with thermometers frozen at -25C for weeks or mild and gentle, barely going under 0C. The city reflects the people who live here. They come from all over the country to make the capital their home, and while they adapt to the new they still remember their origins and traditions making Bucharest an interesting experience during the winter. Tradition and innovation, there is always something different. A large part of the season is filled by holidays, for there are quite many of them; everything starts on the 1st of December, the National Holiday, celebrating the re-unification of Romania into a single country, then, once Christmas and New Year’s day have passed, name days begin, ending with the 6th of January feast of Boboteaza, when the priests walk from house to house, blessing the homes and those who live in them with sprinkles of holy water. Once January ends, along comes February, with the long lover’s holiday period that starts on the 14th of February, St Valentine’s Day and continues to the 24th of February because in the last decade we have also returned to life the tradition of Dragobete, the traditional Romanian lover’s day. So for ten days gifts are offered and love is in the air, the perfect preparation for the spring celebrations which start on the 1st of March. But let’s go back to the 1st of December, the National Holiday when we commemorate the creation of Greater Romania, the reunification of the country when Transylvania joined Romania at the end

S TO BUCHAREST of World War I. The celebrations include military parades and concerts, while traditional food is offered in some parks and piazzas. Sarmale (cabbage meat rolls), mici, beans and sausages, and large mugs of beer make this day a delight.

THE “BEAR DANCERS” PRESENT A SHOW FOR THE NEW YEAR TO COME Then on the evening of the 5th of December, when St Nicholas puts gifts in the boots children left by the window, the holiday lights are lit across the city. The focal point of the illuminations is Piata Unirii where a large Christmas tree dominates. Some years it has been a real tree on others it is a giant artificial tree. The richest lights in the city can be seen from Piata Unirii to Piata Romana, but if you move farther from the center, the neighborhoods are also lit in many colors with Christmas trees smiling at you at intersections. The parks are a glitter and in some, such as Cismigiu, open air skating rinks are opened during the season. Other popular skating places are at Piata Unirii or the National Skating Rink Stadium. During the first weeks of December, the city is usually caught up in shopping fever and people finish work for the year so that they can spend Christmas and New Year;s, two of their favorite holidays, in enjoyment and tranquility. This is the time when the biggest traffic jams occur and, getting to your destination, you will get plenty of practice in the art of being patient. By the time Christmas Day arrives the city and its people have calmed down, everyone is focused inward, on the home, on decorations, food preparations and the family, for the three Christmas days are

also the time when families reconnect and visit each other. Traditions from the countryside are still followed in Bucharest, from the foods which are prepared to the well wishers and carol singers who come to our doors during the whole month of December. Children come in twos and threes to sing traditional blessing songs which wish you a good New Year and hope for money and get sweets in exchange. Small choirs of young people go from one apartment building to another, singing Christmas Carols that echo in the staircases all the way to the top, giving the sound a certain purity as if in a high church. In the streets, and sometimes the metro, it is the “bear dancers” who present a show for the New Year to come. The dance groups are formed by young men, dressed in traditional costumes singing and shouting, accompanied by drums and bells. The focal point is one man dressed like a bear, as Romanian traditions have long depicted the bear as an omen of good things, with magical qualities of healing and protecting against illness and bad luck. The foods we love to eat at this time, and never miss during Christmas and New Year’s feasts include sarmale, and pound cake, fresh made sausages and different parts of pork, for pig is the king of the dinner table during this season. Family and good food are the central part of the celebrations, but fun is never neglected in Bucharest. While Christmas is gener-

ally spent at home with the family, New Year’s Eve is the time to unleash your spirits and party. Whether in the city or in mountain resorts, old and new friends will gather and celebrate the changing year by dancing and drinking and they will mark that magic midnight moment with thousands of firecrackers and fireworks lit across the city. For a few days, between Christmas and New Year, large fireworks can be bought on the streets and in stores so the first few minutes of the New Year are suitably welcomed in the capital, and Bucharest is afire from the grand official shows in the center of the city, to the equally flamboyant spectacles in the neighborhoods. The morning of January 1st might be the quietest time of the year, for the residents of the city are sleeping off their excesses, before starting another round of visits in the afternoon to wish people well, named after St Basil the Great, whose day this is. Boboteaza, the baptism of Christ, takes place on the 6th of January. Folk tales say that this day is the coldest of the year and that even stones freeze. Saint John’s Day on the 7th of January ends the great winter feasts. Everyone is a bit more relaxed and perhaps energized because all had fun, friends and family reunited. Undoubtedly, winter is the coldest season the city of Bucharest experiences, but it is equally sure that its people know how to weather whatever comes, how to turn on the heat in their hearts and enjoy life.

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special

Cozonac, the Smell of Romanian Holidays Ana-Maria POPESCU •

Part of what might be our country’s brand, something of the strong and authentic contemporary Romanian identity is hidden in the kitchen. Even if today's peasants are the children and grandchildren of yesterday’s peasants, and even if housewives wear sports clothing, everything they make still follows the authentic natural recipes and the trademarks of tradition.

ecently, I heard someone say something which got me thinking (good things!): “I believe that the thing which could be our country’s brand is hidden in our kitchens“. It was a discussion about the recent cooking festivals around the country; about the brunches in Ardeal organized by good-hearted people trying to keep up and enjoy our traditions; about the new trends in restaurants where it now smells of good, warm food cooked from our grandmother’s recipe; about the bio food fairs attended by people who bring jams, honey, smoked meats and cheese which come from all over the country. In fact, it has been the small-sized entrepreneurs who carry on the recipes they inherited from their family and still use them in the current climate of dizzying consumerism. For me, and others like me, who are sick and tired of the canned foods and who miss very much, and have an insatiable longing for their childhood food, these traditional dishes bring back the memories of the holidays spent with our grandparents and family, when everything smelled of stuffed cabbage (sarmale) and

Bucuresti what, where, when

pork-scraps, of cozonac (a Romanian holiday cake) and pies, hot plum brandy and fresh warm bread. Together with all those amazing tastes and flavours, all the good things I experienced and tasted come back to my mind and my tongue. And, of course, I agreed with my friend, who thinks that part of what might be our country’s brand, something of the strong and authentic contemporary Romanian identity is hidden in the kitchen. Even if today's peasants are the children and grandchildren of yesterday’s peasants, and even if housewives wear sports clothing, everything they make still follows the authentic natural recipes and the trademarks of tradition.

THE SMELL OF COZONAC AND THE TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY DINNER Of all these, if I were to vote for an everlasting, always successful holiday-related item, which has the power of a symbol, it would be cozonac. I am not afraid to call it the traditional cake, which is always associated with holi-

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days. It is a part of all rituals, from passing on there is no memorial or funeral ceremony without it - to the celebrations of renewal and resurrection. The winter holidays are charmless without it. No Christmas dinner is complete without it, when it is accompanied by a glass of red wine. Easter is not Easter without it, either. The ingredients are always handy and are not sophisticated at all. Some flour, eggs, sugar, milk, salt, nuts, butter. As kneading is the key, gifted and magic hands, and an incantation, like in fairy tales, are needed. My grandmother knew the magic recipe which filled the house with the smell of baking and the sweet smell of the steaming cake, which was then sliced and offered to the eager children’s mouth. I will never forget the hot slices that we ate by the evening candle light and the smell of the quinces placed to dry on the window sill. And I do know that all the recipes say that it must not be eaten hot, but cold, but I must confess that there is nothing as delicious as the slices of hot cozonac. Encyclopaedias say that cozonac is a Romanian

and Bulgarian traditional cake (in Bulgarian it is called kozunak), which is traditionally made for Easter and Christmas. An international equivalent, a similar, but not identical cake, is the Italian Christmas panettone. The dough is pretty much the same all over Romania, while the shape varies according to the area and to the cooks’ imagination. They may be rectangular or round, simple or interlaced. In time, they became more and more diverse and the stuffing was no longer nuts and cocoa powder, as my grandmother used to make, but also with walnuts, poppy, raisins, Turkish delight, sweet (dry) fruit, sweet cheese (the so-called pasca made at Easter), marmalade or mixtures of these ingredients. There is a place in Romania, in the Moldavia area, Bucovina, where they make round, tall cozonac without any stuffing called babe (old women), their recipe includes over 20 eggs per piece.

ONCE UPON A TIME Classic cozonac is made following an old, historic recipe. Originally, it was made from flour sweetened with sugar or honey, mixed with eggs and, often, but not necessarily, with milk and fats. What is still specific is the spongy texture, which is the result of the rising dough. Since many cakes can fit this description, not surprisingly, the differences between cozonac, bread, tea biscuits and buns (chec) are very vague. Probably, their point of common origin is bread. In old times, some Roman types of bread, which were enriched with eggs and butter, must have been very much like cozonac. The Egyptians also made a type of sweet bread, which they presented as offerings to the gods. The Greeks also have a type of Christmas bread. It is similar to a tart with cheese, honey and crushed nuts and it is called plakous, which refers to its flat shape. But the Romans were the first to create the original cozonac with raisins and nuts or dried fruits. The libum was a small Roman cozonac, which was made as an offering to the gods. Later, they started making larger ones, which could also be eaten by humans, not only by the gods. Another sacrificial offering was the more elaborate placenta, a type of cozonac with cheese, which evolved into a series of variants with raisins, walnuts, seeds, which were always accompanied by a sweet wine. During the Middle Ages, European cooks were very fond of this cake filled with dry fruits and ginger bread because they lasted longer. Of course at that time cozonac was not so sponge like, and it was believed to be more tasty if eaten dry. During the 14th century in Britain, Chaucer, in his Canterbury Tales, mentions the huge Christmas cakes resembling cozonac which were made on special occasions. One of them was shaped like a tart, made from 13 kilos of flour, butter, eggs, spices, raisins and honey.

OUR COUNTRY’S BRAND IS HIDDEN IN THE KITCHEN There are many stories about this cake, some of them related to social satire, while others reveal the state of some nations in certain historical contexts. We are all familiar with Marie Antoinette’s answer “If they have no

bread, let them eat cake!“, referring to a type of baked bread that only rich people could afford at the time. While in The Story of cozonac, in his subtle and humorous style, Romanian writer Pastorel Teodoreanu criticizes the new class of nouveau riche ladies, who no longer liked the traditional Romanian name of the cake and altered its name in as many ways as possible. This cake is so famous and popular that it can be easily used as a reference to literary works. I do not know if cozonac belongs only to the Romanian tradition, but I do know that the shapes we have given it, the way we make it and eat it and its importance for our holiday dinners are unique. There is much talk about “the Romanian cuisine”, which over time has come to represent the synthesised result of specific Romanian gastronomic tastes and customs. Among them, the ritual of cozonac baking is one of the most pleasant moments related to holidays. Romanians have always been fond of the simple and essential elements of life reflected in their myths and traditions. Wheat must be celebrated in all its states, and its spirit can be deemed as an

indirect path to earthly happiness. Cozonac is actually a sophisticated type of tribute to wheat. That is why, the preserved and updated custom of baking these cakes, although having lost the ritual meaning, is still a form of celebration. In Romanian tradition, the presence of cozonac on the table means there is a holiday.

QUEUING FOR COZONAC AND GRANDMA’S OVEN I believe there is no better argument in favour of cozonac. And I also believe that it is timeless and that it can be part of our country’s brand. I should also finish my story about my grandmother’s cozonac and tell you that she had the best oven in the village, and that is why women came over to our house to bake their Christmas cakes. You may laugh, but they actually made lists and appointments many days before, and while the cake was baking, stories would be told. These were the most wonderful stories, better than fairy tales, better than personal histories and even better than the great events mentioned in historical chronicles.

Ca fe Tim es in A New Version Creative, enthusiastic and always in fashion, the Golden Tulip Times team has entirely redesigned Cafe Times located on the ground floor of the hotel on 19 Decebal Blvd. At the reopening party, gifted barmen, sophisticated coffees, coloured cocktails, sushi, original experiences welcomed the guests. A much larger, open space has replaced the small tables located at the entrance, while instead of the back windows you can now benefit from tall and comfortable sofas similar to royal thrones. The frayed spider web hanging all over the walls suggests, by contrast, the cleanliness and elegance always observed by the hotel and emphasizes the underground image that creates a youthful atmosphere. Two spectacular bartender shows, when the pale blue fire was miraculously spread on the bar’s counter of black, shiny material was one of the night's attractions. If you happen to be around that place, you must try, beside the other specialities, the delicious mousse, the cocktails and, of course, the wide range of coffees.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

interview

“Younger generations with new and greater idealism...” eter Frank served for a dozen years as a Senior VP and Executive VP at Bank of America and MBNA America Bank, most recently focused on the development of new business strategies and products in the US, Europe, and Mexico. He also spent more than 10 years as a financial journalist; he was Business and Financial News Editor at The Baltimore Sun and The Wilmington New Journal, and reported on business and financial issues for The New York Times. He wrote extensively on banking, insurance, real estate, economics through two economic crises, including many investigative, explanatory, and consumer-oriented special reports. Currently, Peter is producing a show on The Money Channel, which is a first for the Romanian media environment: The Frank Show, a business show in English, will be especially interesting for expats and busi-

ness visitors, offering them the most important local and international news, interviews with business leaders and analysis of the hottest topics of the day. Here is what Peter told us about Romania, its economic past and perspectives. You have been living here for six months, and you are married to a Romanian woman. Please tell us more about how you have come to settle in our country. After working in Mexico and England for three years, I returned to the US and decided to leave Bank of America, which

Bucuresti what, where, when

had purchased the bank I had worked at for nine years. I began to consider what type of work I would enjoy most, and where I would like to pursue a new career. Because I had spent several years developing new payment card products for emerging markets, I considered several areas of the world before deciding on Eastern Europe and over time, specifically Romania. After traveling back and forth between New York and Bucharest, beginning in late 2008, I decided that the best way to discover this new region was by moving here rather than commuting so I settled here in June of this year. As far as you have come to know the Romanian people, what do you like and what do you dislike most about Romanians and about this city ?

It is difficult, and most of the time dangerous, to speak in generalities. Especially having lived here for some time now, I do not think of the individuals I meet as somehow members of a collective personality type. When I consider friends and acquaintances, my impression is that the people I know are refreshingly more genuine than many people in the US. They will speak their minds more openly and directly and I feel more sincerity when they smile and laugh. I have been told that people are less reluctant to speak about themselves in a more personal way here, and I believe that is true. I enjoy observing those as-

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pects of society here that demonstrate how young this society still is and how isolated it was for far too many years. Whether it is in music, or clothing styles, food, or shopping, or business, there is much here that speaks loudly to the fact that this current culture is only 20 years old. Perhaps because I am still a newcomer in many ways, there is nothing that I dislike about Bucharest, except the dust. As an economist, when do you think this crisis will come to an end in the world and in Romania, and which sectors of the economy will be the first to recover? I should make clear that I am not an economist. I have studied it and written about it and read about it for 30 years. But I do not consider myself an economist. I am a journalist, a writer, and a banker. Given what experience I do have though, having lived in different countries and having written about several “crises” and recessions over the years, I firmly believe that this is not a crisis. The problem was a financial liquidity crisis and that ended many months ago. What is occurring now is a recession. It is not as negatively exciting or as elegant as a true crisis. Recessions are messy and painful, however. But they always end and this one, according to the people who do little else than study these things, will end here by perhaps the middle of next year. Recessions elsewhere have ended or are in the process of ending. That is important because a recovery is occurring in the world’s largest economies on which Romania is dependent to fuel economic activity here. Romania is, thankfully, part of the international community now and it is important that the interrelationships continue to expand. In the interview you did with Andrew Begg, the editor of “Vivid” magazine, he was expressing one thought which all of us unfortunately share: Romanian politicians have betrayed the goals and the ideals of this nation, and every good change that has taken place in the last 20 years has happened in spite of the political class. Is our biggest shortcoming a political one?

Believe it or not, politics is not that different elsewhere. Other countries have merely had more time to establish more

coherent rules and traditions for how politics and governments work, in spite of the natural course of politics. Clearly, there are difficult political realities here that have yet to be overcome. It will take a combination of time and more public involvement. It will take more people believing they can effect true change in this country if they have the will and the energy. Do you think this will change in the coming years, and if yes, then how? Yes. Younger generations with new and greater idealism will mature and begin making a greater difference. While Communism was a social and political disaster, our industry was quite strong back then. Romania's exports exceeded imports, while now we are exporting very little and importing even the basic products, which have replaced the local ones. Can a country survive economically when producing so little, although it has as many natural resources as we have?

I might argue whether your industry was “quite strong” back then. I suppose it depends on how you measure strength. Do you merely consider whether factories operated and people were paid? Or do you measure productivity, quality, efficiency and the ability to compete in a global market? And I believe there were other, less sound reasons for the low imports. But the short answer is no. No economy can survive without producing something. That product, however, can be services, though, and not necessarily durable goods and agriculture. What we are seeing now is part of the maturation process of the economy. There will continue to be imbalances, to be sure, but fewer as years pass. Throughout your journalistic career, you have also written on real estate issues and this is one of the fields which have been most affected by the current economic turmoil. Will the prices continue to drop on the local market, as has justifiably happened in the last year?

The value of land is nothing more than what people are willing to pay for it. Of course, supply and demand and location and quality of life are components in the equation. But we’ve seen real estate prices elsewhere climb during recessions also. So it would be foolish for me to try to predict where the bottom of the cycle is here. Clearly, though, when economies are growing, real estate prices go up. How did you decide to make the Frank Show on the Money Channel and what else are you planning for

the months/years to come? The decision evolved over months of conversations with several people at the station. In the end, we agreed to produce a news summary in English every evening, presented with a different perspective that would come naturally from someone who was not from Romania, and who had experience in different countries and different industries. It took some time to develop the right concept and then some additional weeks preparing the show. As for the future, I believe there are many new ideas for business journalism here that have yet to

be developed. What will be done though, has yet to be considered. If you were to come up with three solutions for the Romanian economy to make it work better, which would they be?

I would defer to what I’ve been told, which appears to be true: greater clarity and logic in the law; less legal and ethical corruption; better infrastructure. Interview by Sorana MAN

R ad i s s o n S AS H o te l i n B u c h ares t C h a n g e s i n to R ad i s s o n B l u THE RENAMING IS PART OF THE GLOBAL STRATEGY IMPLEMENTED BY REZIDOR GROUP Radisson SAS hotel in Bucharest changes into Radisson Blu, thus joining the other 150 Radisson hotels in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) that have adopted or will adopt the new name. The change takes place in a gradual process to be carried out by 2010, in order not to disturb in any way the current activity. Following the splitting from the SAS group, the hotel division of the Scandinavian SAS airline, Rezidor decided in February 2009 to make this change. The first hotel of the Radisson network that adopted the new name this February was Radisson Blu located on the premises of the Zurich airport. Inaugurated on September 18, 2009 the SAS Radisson hotel in Bucharest is the largest 5-star hotel in Romania and the biggest Radisson hotel in Eastern Europe. “It is the beginning of a journey, a step forward we make full of enthusiasm and ambition to get to the top, by continuing to promote the value that turned Radisson into one of the most modern, exciting and competitive hotel brands worldwide,” Yilmaz Yildirimlar Radisson SAS Bucharest general manager said. The “Blu” particle added to the Radisson name continues the brand tradition, preserving as graphics the blue box that became the renowned symbol of Radisson individuality in the EMEA region. In its first year of activity, Radisson SAS Bucharest received many awards and trophies and hosted some major events at national and regional level. Moreover, it had the honour of accommodating celebrities, among which were members of some European royal families and showbiz stars. www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

ESSENTIAL INFO • HOTELS • MUSEUMS • SHOW BIZ CULTURAL INSTITUTES • CITY MAP Rely on these pages for guidance on where to go and what to do during your visit. All telephone numbers are in area code 021, unless noted, and the letter/number combinations at the end of listings are coordinates for the map (page 22). For subway map see also page 22. ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Police - Like all cities, Bucharest too has dangerous 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 0723-343219.

TELEPHONES The payphones in the city are phone card operated. When calling into Romania, you need to dial the international access code (00), country’s code (40), the city code (without the initial 0 - 021 for Bucharest), then the subscriber’s number. When dialling a mobile number from abroad, the initial 0 is also dropped.

Romanian city codes (selected): Brasov (0268),

Ophthalmology Emergency Clinic Hospital:

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),

1, Piata Lahovari, Ph. 021-319-2753

TRANSLATORS 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

POST OFFICES The Central Post Office is at 10, Matei Millo St. (near the Phone Company building on Calea Victoriei). www.posta-romana.ro Open: 7:30-20:00. Closed Sunday.

MONEY Money can be exchanged at banks, hotels and private offices (Casa de schimb valutar). There can be major differences in rates, especially between the banks and the private exchange offices. Changing money in the street is illegal and inadvisable. Bank notes are in the following denominations: LEI 1,00; 5,00; 10,00; 50,00; 100,00 and 500;00. Coins: Bani 1; 5; 10; 50. Banks are open weekdays from 8:30 to noon and from 14:00 to 16:00.

VISAS 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.

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

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

Bucuresti what, where, when

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Unirea Medical Center: • 57, Unirii Blvd, Ph. 021-327-1188 ; • 2, Staicovici St, Opera Center. Ph 021-412-0110 • 12, G Enescu St, Ph. 021-316-5876/77/78

NON-STOP PHARMACIES There is no problem with finding a pharmacy in your neighborhood, no matter where you are in Bucharest. Here are some pharmacies with nonstop service: Farmacia Verde: 15, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph. 021-230-1451 Sensiblu: 65, Calea Dorobantlor, Ph. 021-211-1127, Farmadex: 19, N Titulescu Blvd, Ph. 0744-650-078 MedFARM: 34, I.C. Bratianu Blvd, Ph. 021-315-2309

DENTISTS Alpha Dent Company: 300, Calea Calarasilor St., Ph. 021-321-3099

Dent Elysee: 51, J.L. Calderon St., Ph. 021-312-3300; 0723-380-498

Dent Estet: 15, Aviatorilor Blvd. Ph. 021-222-1108 7, G. Alexandrescu St, Ph. 0723-602-020

HEALTH CLUBS & SPA BUCHAREST Crowne Plaza Hotel:1, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-224-0034; Open: daily 6:30 - 23:00 Massage: Mon-Fri 17:00 - 21:00 Diplomatilor Club: 1, Minovici Alley. Ph.: 021-222-8497; 0722-328-758. Open: daily 9:00 - 18:00 Eden Spa: 39, Primaverii Blvd., Ph.: 021-316-8148; 0721-321-294. Open: Mon - Fri 9:00 - 21:00 . Sat 9:00 - 18:00 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. C.C. accepted. Location: Basement. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. 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 Hotel: 4, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-310-202; Open: Mon-Sat 6:00 - 20:00 Magnolia Spa: 20, Sperantei St. Ph.: 021-311-2779; Open: Tue - Fri 12:30 - 20:00 Sat: 10:30 - 18:00; Sun - Mon closed Novotel Wellness Centre: Indoor swimming pool with artificial waves, fitness centre, gym, massage, hammam, Power Plate and golf simulator. C.C. accepted. Secure paying parking lot. 37B, Calea Victoriei. Phone: 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

CONSTANTA COUNTY

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

PRAHOVA COUNTY Pro Estetica Sana Bali Spa: 349, Stadionului St., Cornu; Ph./fax: 0244-367-053. Open: 8:00 - 22:00

DRIVING IN ROMANIA 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.

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

CITY TAXI SERVICES You can olso call a city taxi by phoning one of these numbers: 9427, 9439, 9451, 9425, 9435, 9444, 9422. Prices vary from one taxi company to another.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Relatively safe and efficient, Bucharest’s public transport system covers the entire city with buses, tramways, trolleys and metro (subway) services, operating from 5 a.m. to midnight. Tickets and magnetic cards can be bought at RATB kiosks, located on the main thoroughfares in the city, for ground transportation, and in every Metro station for the underground network. Bus, Tram, Trolleys – LEI 1,30 per ticket, LEI 8,00 for one-day pass, LEI 50,00 for a monthly pass. EXPRESS buses use a magnetic card. Metro – LEI 2,20 for two-fare pass, LEI 8,00 for ten-fare pass, LEI 4,00 for one-day pass, LEI 23,00 - for a monthly passcard.

SHOW BIZ Concerts usually start around 6 pm except for Opera and Musical Comedy matinees which start around 11 am. The Music University of Bucharest presents mostly classic recitals which are usually free of charge. The Opera has an extensive repertoire and enjoys international renown. The Athenaeum hosts concerts featuring the Romanian National and 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

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):

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”:

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

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: Reservations: Ph.: 021-335-7533; Fax:021-335-7532 reservations@hertz.com.ro; www.hertz.com.ro

AIRPORTS Henri Coanda International Airport: – for international and domestic flights. Ph.: Switchboard: (+4021) 204-1000 Customs: ext.: 1514 ; Lost luggage: ext. 1043 Airport Police: ext.: 1523 Aurel Vlaicu Airport (Baneasa): – for domestic and international flights. Ph.: (+4021) 9371, 021-232-0020 ext.: 131.

Transportation to/from Henri Coanda Airport: RATB: City Bus #783 Connecting Otopeni to the City center. Important stops: Pullman Hotel, Piata Victoriei, Piata Romana, Piata Unirii.

TAXI SERVICES Airport taxis are available at the arrivals hall but they may charge you 3 to 10 times as much as a Bucharest regular taxi. Euro Fly Taxi is the official airport taxi, and they are queued outside Henri Coanda Airrivals terminal. If not, call 9440. The average price from Haenri Coanda Airport to Bucharest: 15 Euros.

49-53, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-314 81 19; 021-313 30 30. Visiting hours: Wednesday-Sunday 11.00 –19.00 (May-September); 10.00 – 18.00 (October-April); Closed: Monday, Tuesday, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 25th December. The National Museum of Art of Romania is housed in the former Royal Palace which is located on Victoriei Avenue, in an area of great architectural and historical value. The European Art Gallery includes painting, sculpture and decorative art. The most important schools of European art are well represented by works of Domenico Veneziano, Lucas Cranach the Elder, El Greco, Pieter Breughel the Younger, Rembrandt, Monet, Sisley, Rodin and other great names. The Gallery offers an overview of the most important artistic movements that marked art history from the early Renaissance till the first decades of the 20th century. The Medieval Romanian Art Gallery displays works from the 14th to the 19th century: frescoes, icons, embroideries, manuscripts, silver and gold objects and sculptures. The Romanian Modern Art Gallery illustrates the development of Romanian fine arts from the first decades of the 19th century till the second half of the 20th century. It includes works of Aman, Grigorescu, Andreescu, Luchian, Tonitza, Pallady, Petrascu, Brâncusi, Paciurea. www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

Must See in Bucharest Here is a selection of the most representative landmarks of Bucharest which are a must to see during your stay in the city. You will see these and much more on one of our regularly scheduled or customized tours while benefitting from the expertise and knowledge of our experienced licensed guides. For more information please see the ads inside the magazine.

140 Years of Philharmonics, 120 Years of Athenaeum

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The Parliament Palace: is the second largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon) in terms of all-out surface: 330,000 m2. It was built between 1984 and 1989 by a team of architects led by Anca Petrescu. and was destined for the members of the Communist Party; Besides offices, Ceausescu planned to make personal living places, so the Palace's surface would have been bigger. The building currently houses Romania's Parliament. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (By appointment only)

The Village Museum: nestled on the shore of the Herastrau Lake, the museum displays 85 peasant homes, barns, churches and mills relocated there from all over Romania. Tall-roofed Transylvanian houses with beautifully crafted shingles sit alongside rustic wooden churches to form a unique neighborhood. The overall impression is that Romanian peasants take great pride in their work and homes. Everyday accessories: tools, butter-churns, hay forks, beer kegs and clothes are displayed inside the house. This museum can take a whole day to explore and, in fine weather, families settle down for picnics in the scenic grounds. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., every day, except Monday

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.

The Old Royal Court: during the early Middle

The Cotroceni Palace: is a part of the Cotroceni National Museum. The Cotroceni Palace, church and monastery reflect a three-century old history that interweaves political, military, diplomatic, religious and cultural aspects, with the general evolution of Romanian society. The palace was built in the 17th century by the Prince Serban Cantacuzino. The Cotroceni National Museum exhibits a rich range of objects of art, illustrative of the Romanian decorative art. The Cantacuzino space is most suitable for organizing presentations of old art objects that can only outline the exceptional artistic accomplishments of a distant epoch. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (By appointment only)

Bucuresti what, where, when

The National Museum of Art: is hosted by the former Royal Palace and is the most representative art gallery in Romania. The Royal Palace was the official residence of the Romanian kings. Its current facade was given the finishing touches in 1937 when Carol II was King of Romania. The National Art Museum Palace is located in downtown Bucharest (in the so-called Revolution Square). The Palace displays an extensive collection of European and Romanian fine art. The European Art Gallery offers an overview of teh most important artistic movements that marked art history from the early Rennaissance till the first decades of teh 20th century. The Romanian Modern Art Gallery illustrates the development of Romanian fine arts from the first decades of the 19th century till the second half of the 20th century. Visiting hours: Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (May - September) 10 a.m - 6 p.m. (October - April) Closed: Monday, Tuesday

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Ages, Bucharest became a commercial center; important enough to enable the XIV century princes to build the Princely Court â&#x20AC;&#x201C; nowadays known as "The Old Court" - which formed the development core of the medieval town. The first written mention of the name of "Bucharest" dates back to September 20, 1459: it appears on a document issued from the chancellery of the famous Prince Vlad Tepes (the Impaler). By the year 1599, a new Princely Court was built. Matei Basarab (1632-1654) renovated the Old Court. By 1640, because the prince's relations with the Turks worsened, Matei Basarab moved his Capital back to the town of Targoviste. Bucharest still remained a princely residence. In May 1654, Prince Constantin Serban Basarab (1654-1658), Matei Basarab's successor, left for Targoviste after a rebellion of his mercenary troops, and he ordered the Old Court to be set of fire. The Old Royal Court is an outdoor site that can be visited any time.

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DECEMBER 2009 - JANUARY 2010

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A Walk on An Autumn Evening Marcela GRATIANU •

t may be that in autumn, more than at any other time, you look back, at your memories of summer, over the years… you take a walk, you look around and you remember. Following your personal map of Bucharest with no particular goal, you instinctively listen to the memories nested in your heart. As you leave Cismigiu, with its sad benches behind, you go out onto Calea General Berthelot and, after a few steps, at no. 50, you see the blue logo of a restaurant I hold dear. It is a house with an interesting architecture and a noble atmosphere, a place where I had an amazing evening in the summer. It is the “Tasty Fish”, a seafood restaurant, which just opened in February. Fans of fish based menus have already discovered it and have quickly become its loyal customers because, as its name claims, the fish here is absolutely delicious. Indeed, the friends who recommended it for its pleasant atmosphere, its special dishes, for its good music and impeccable service were not exaggerating one bit. As soon as you walk through the gate, you are on the “terasa” of the restaurant while the entrance itself lies to the left, leading to the interior two largish rooms and a former wine cellar which is now transformed into a cozy room which can hold about 10-12 people. A warm, intimate atmosphere greets you, thanks to the elegant marriage of wooden hues with straw yellow, with the sweet, restful light surrounding the high windows, the archways and the paintings offering a distinct atmosphere to the rooms. You are guided to a carefully set up table - you could have chosen the terasa, but the weather might not be on your side – you take a seat and are ready to study the menu. What is new? You find all the tasty dishes of the water world gathered here, everything that the sea or the ocean can offer: beluga, sturgeon, salmon, garfish, dorada, oysters, clams. You can order them, prepared according to classic recipes and in a healthy way, as the fish is cooked on a special grill or in a convection oven, without the use of oil, or skillfully combined with ingredients from recipes which are full of surprises - from fish broths and soups to pickled fish, fish jelly, fish sausages or fish meatballs… You'll love it! Even more so as the fish is very fresh - it is brought once every three days and it is kept in ice chips, not frozen. Another secret is the fact that the chefs are from Galati, from the Danube’s shores, where the job of learning to prepare fish is handed down from father to son. Obviously, a good fish dish is even better with a good wine, and the house wines, white or rose, accompany the culinary wonders perfectly. The restaurant also offers classical, international menus, but it would be a shame to order pizza or chicken, in a place where the fish dishes are so great. Only for the dessert, where your taste might not be so exotic that you could maintain the fish line, you can opt for “papanasi” or a cheese and raisin pie. Even though you have learned crab ice-cream exists here as well… You hide the memory of the July evening as best as you can, not to lose it somehow, and head towards the Universitatii area. You don’t know how, but your feet take you to Terminus. The club is nice, and I

mean the part downstairs, the tar coated wood ship decor, where I have buried memories of passionate kisses and numerous blue nights. What will you like about this place? First of all the music, well chosen, diversified, ranging more towards the ‘80s-‘90s. Then, that unusual, but good feeling, that someone is pressing some buttons making space immediately turn into, at our heart’s desire, either an enclosed one, in discreet booths, protecting your love at the warm candle light, either an open one, on the dance floor - which, its true, isn’t very generous, but you forget about that when you suddenly see your own moves in the mirrors scattered all over the place. Every time we came here in a somewhat larger group, everyone, and I mean everyone, even the strangers, from the other tables, has felt, especially while dancing, as though we had known each other since the beginning of time. What might you not like about this page IV

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Bucuresti what, where, when

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MASSAGE: Relaxation & Healing Everyone needs to relax, to escape from the turmoil of everyday life. Although often ignored or viewed as merely recreation, the art of massage is just that, and art as well as a science, and has been growing in popularity and acceptance in our community. 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 perform-

ance, 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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;laying on of handsâ&#x20AC;? 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..

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Bucuresti what, where, when

III

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place? That it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t open until the last client leaves, as it states. Anyway, it is the time to leave and especially so as it is almost empty now, and it is much too early. The real fun only starts after 10. You step out on Magheru Boulevard, but after a few steps, you could decide to make a right and yet again go towards the bundle of parallel streets. As you reach the Horizon Art Galleries (Galeriile de Arta Orizont), you can go down to the basement, to the already famous Art Jazz Club. And I say famous because this club is known and appreciated by both the crowd from Bucharest and the outsider. Over time, the club has hosted concerts of established artists, as well as plastic arts exhibits with the displays on sale - graphics and paintings -, and it has organized special theater and dance nights. I went to karaoke nights several times this summer. And they were very successful nights. You could choose from a generous repertoire the very song which you felt to be meaningful at least on a sentimental level if not on a vocal level, you asked for it from the guy at the booth and you set your eyes on the projected wall while giving an awkward smile to the

Bucuresti what, where, when

audience who was on your side anyway. A bit of luck and if you actually proved to have some vocal ability you could sing with a band and back-up vocals. Even now, going down the narrow stairs, I feel like laughing as, having arrived a bit late, when the party was almost ending, I was able to witness a spectacular show, a real competition between novices in the music

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world. It must have been the Chineseâ&#x20AC;Ś beer. But an evening like this could delete all the bitterness you had absorbed the whole week from your mind. This evening, people are gathering for a new concert. People of all ages, all of whom are hopelessly in love with music, and especially jazz.

HOTELS

GRAFFITI ★★★

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.

56, Calea Victoriei ph.: +40-372-010-300; fax: +40-372-010 301.

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

ANGELO AIRPORTHOTEL BUCHAREST ★★★★: 283, Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. ph: +40-21-203-6500; fax: +40-21-203-6530 ARMONIA ★★★★ 7 E : 112, Calea Mosilor, ph: +40-21-312-0477; fax: +40-21-312-0406.

ATHENÉE PALACE HILTON BUCHAREST ★★★★★ 6 D : 1-3, Episcopiei St. ph: +40-21-303-3777; fax: +40-21-315-2121. BANAT ★★ 7 E : 5, Piata Rosetti ph: +40-21-312-5784; fax: +40-21-312-6547. CAPITOL ★★★ 7 D : 29, Calea Victoriei ph: +40-21-313-9440; fax: +40-21-312-4169 CAROL PARC HOTEL ★★★★★ 9 D : 23-25, Aleea Suter , ph: +40-21-336-3377; fax: +40-21-336-3736 CARO ★★★ 2 E : 164A, Barbu Vacarescu St. ph: +40-21-208-6100; fax: +40-21-208-6101; CASA CAPSA ★★★★★ 7D : 36, Calea Victoriei ph: +40-21-313-4038 CASA VICTOR ★★★★ 4 C : 44, Emanoil Porumbaru St. ph: +40-21-222-5723, +40-21-222-9626 fax: +40-21-222-9436 CENTRE VILLE APARTHOTEL ★★★★ 6 D : George Enescu St. and Luterana St. crossing ph: +40-21-305-3666; fax: +40-21-312-0927 CENTRAL ★★★ 7 D : 13, Brezoianu St, ph/fax: +40-21-315-5636/37. CLASS ★★★★ 1 B : 30A, Gârlei St. ph: +40-21-233-2814; fax: +40-21-233-2886 CONFORT OTOPENI ★★★: 255A, Calea Bucuresti ph: +40-21-350-4110 - 16; fax: +40-21-350-4117 - 18. CONFORT TRAIAN ★★★ 7 F : 55, Traian St. ph.: +40-21-308-3153/4; fax: +40-21-308-3155. Crowne Plaza ★★★★★ 2 A 1, Poligrafiei St. ph.: +40-21-224-0034; fax: +40-21-318-1302 DALIN ★★★ 9 D : 70-72, Marasesti Blvd. ph.: +40-21-335-6306; fax: +40-21-336-6284 DALIN CENTER ★★★ 7 F : 33A, Soseaua Stefan cel Mare. ph.: +40-21-211-0070 DUKE HHH 6 D : 33, Dacia Blvd, ph: +40-21-317-4186/87/88; fax: +40-21-317-4189.

EURO HOTELS INTERNATIONAL ★★★

5 D : 25 Albac St., ph./fax: +40-21-231-6006.

GRAND HOTEL CONTINENTAL ★★★★★

HOWARD JOHNSON GRAND PLAZA HOTEL ★★★★★ 6 D 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor, ph: +40-21-201-5000; fax: +40-21-201-1888. HELLO HOTELS ★★ 6 B : 143, Calea Grivitei, ph: +40-372-121-800; fax: +40-372-121-801 reservation: +40-372-716-464 HERASTRAU ★★★ 2 C : 7-9, Soseaua Nordului, ph: +40-21-232-9666; fax: +40-21-203-9923. IBIS Gara de Nord ★★★ 6 B : 143, Calea Grivitei, ph: +40-21-300-9100; fax: +40-21-300-9098. reservation: +40-21-401-1011 IBIS Palatul Parlamentului ★★★ 8 C : 82-84, Izvor St., ph: +40-21-401-1000; fax: +40-21-402-2898. One IBIS reservation: +40-21-401-1011 INTER-CONTINENTAL ★★★★★ 7 D : 4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., ph: +40-21-310-2020; fax: +40-21-312-0486.

JW MARRIOTT BUCHAREST GRAND HOTEL ★★★★★ 8 B : 90, Calea 13 Septembrie, ph: +40-21-403-1012; fax: +40-21-403-1001.

4, Ghe. Polizu St. ph: +40-21-316-88-39; fax: +40-21-316-8360 EURO HOTELS INT’L TRIUMF ★★★ 4 B : 32-34, Maresal Averescu Blvd. ph: +40-21-224-5496; fax: +40-21-224-5554 ERBAS ★★★ 1 + 2 D : 27, Av. Alex Serbanescu St., ph: +40-21-232-6856, +40-21-232-6857. fax: +40-21-232-6527.

GOLDEN TULIP BUCHAREST ★★★★

166, Calea Victoriei. ph: +40-21-212-5558; fax: +40-21-212-5121 GOLDEN TULIP TIMES ★★★★ 7 G : 19, Decebal Blvd. ph: +40-21-316 6516; fax: +40-21-316-6517

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Bucuresti what, where, when

6 C : 25, Occidentului St., ph: +40-21-210-1274; fax: +40-21-319-0910.

LEV OR ★★★

7E : 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St. ph: +40-21-314-0880; fax: +40-21-314-0888

MARSHAL ★★★★

MINERVA ★★★★ 5 C : 2-4, Gh. Manu St., ph: +40-21-311-1555; fax: +40-21-312-3963 6 E : 30, Corbeni St., ph: +40-21-211-0979; fax: +40-21-211-0980

MONTE NELLY ★★★★

NOVOTEL BUCAREST CITY CENTRE ★★★★

37B, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-308-8500; fax: +40-21-308-8501

NH BUCHAREST ★★★★ 8 E : 21, Mircea Voda Blvd., ph: +40-21-300-0545; fax: +40-21-317-9154 OPERA ★★★ 7 D : 37, Brezoianu St., ph: +40-21-312-4857; fax: +40-21-312-4858. 8 C : 106, Izvor St., ph: +40-21-411-9990; fax: +40-21-411-9991

PARLIAMENT ★★★★

2 B : 10, Piata Montreal, ph: +40-21-318-3000; fax +40-21-316-2550

PULLMAN ★★★★

RADISSON BLU ★★★★★ 6 D : 63-81, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-311-9000; fax: +40-21-313-9000

RAMADA BUCHAREST PARC ★★★★

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;

RAMADA MAJESTIC BUCHAREST ★★★★ 7 D : 3840, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-310-2715, +40-21-312-1967; fax: +40-21-310-2799

RAMADA PLAZA BUCHAREST ★★★★ 2 B : 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd., ph: +40-21-549-3000; fax: +40-21-549-3001 7F : 159, Calea Calarasilor, ph: +40-21-320-0173 / 83; fax: +40-21-322-0811

RAZVAN ★★★

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 3 A : 319C, Ion Mihalache Blvd., ph: +40-21-224-0282/83; fax: +40-21-224-0284

SAMAA ★★★

SIQUA ★★★ 7C : 59A, Calea Plevnei, ph: +40-21-319-5160; 319-5161; fax: +40-21-319-5162 STARLIGHT SUITE HOTELS ★★★★

5D:

89-97, Grigore Alexandrescu St., ph/fax: +40-21-211-3413 / 14 7E : 19, Armand Calinescu St., ph: +40-21-310-1216; fax: +40-21-310-1241

TEMPO ★★★

TRIANON ★★★ 9, Grigore Cobalcescu St., ph: +40-21-311-4927; fax: +40-21-316-2281 8F : 3A, Nerva Traian St. ph: +40-21-200-6270; fax: +40-21-200-6273

TULIP INN Bucharest City ★★★★

7 C : 2, Pompiliu Eliade St., ph: +40-21-310-6878; fax: +40-21-310-6873

VENEZIA ★★★★

Bucuresti what, where, when

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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:

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:

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:

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.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

“George Enescu” Museum:

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:

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 CinemaPro: 3, Ion Ghica St. Ph.: 031-824-1360

Cinemateca: • Sala Eforie. 2, Eforie St. Ph.: 021-313-0483 • Sala Union. 21, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-9289

Cityplex: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-1334

Corso: City Mall, 3rd floor; 2, Soseaua Oltenitei. Ph.: 021-319-8226

Europa: 127, Calea Mosilor. Ph.: 021-314-2714

Festival: 34, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-6384

French Institute “Elvira Popescu”: 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9930

Glendale Studio: 9, Cotroceni Ave. Ph.: 021-316-3286

Hollywood Multiplex: Bucuresti Mall. 55-59, Calea Vitan; Ph.: 021-327-7020 / 22

Movieplex Cinema: Plaza Romania. 26, Timisoara Blvd.; Ph.: 021-407-8300

Patria: 12-14, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9266 Scala: 2-4, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6708 Studio: 29, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-5526

CULTURAL INSTITUTES Learning French, English, Italian or German is what you wanted for so long but you never had the time to do it? The cultural institutes in Bucharest have language classes to suite your learning appetite. Many of them also have impotrant libraries and mediateques highlighting the culture they represent. Subscriptions to the cultural centres’libraries can vary from 10 to 30 Euro.

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)

22, Henri Coanda St. Ph. 021-311-97-62; 021-311-97-82. Fax: 021-312-05-85; Open Mon - Thu 10-18, Fri 10-15. Free lending library program. German language courses available.

L'Institut Français (French Institute)

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

Bucuresti what, where, when

www.bucurestiwww.ro

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

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

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

Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Develop-

ment: 24, Carol I Blvd. Ph.: 021-307-85-00. www.mapam.ro Ministry of Communication and Information Technology: 14, Libertatii Blvd. Ph./Fax: 021-311-41-21; www.mcti.ro Ministry of Economy & Finance: 152, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-202-51-06; Fax: 021-202-5108. www.mfinante.ro Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 31, Aleea Alexandru Ph.: 021-319-21-08; 021-319-21-25; Fax: 021-319-68-62. www.mae.ro Ministry of Public Finance: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-202-52-34; Fax: 021-202-52-39. www.minind.ro Ministry of Justice: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-314-44-00. www.just.ro

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

Ministry of Defense: 3-5, Izvor St. Ph.: 021-402-3400; Fax: 021-319-56-98. www.mapn.ro

Ministry of Transport: 38, Dinicu Golescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-319-61-24; Fax: 021-313-88-69. www.mt.ro

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

Ministry of Education, Research and Youth:

Ministry of Public Health: 1-3, Cristian Popisteanu Entr. Ph.: 021-307-25-00; 021-307-26-75. www.ms.ro Ministry of Development, Public Works & Housing: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-211-14-09. www.mie.ro

Ministry of Environment & Sustainable Development: 12, Libertatii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-02-15; 021-316-38-74. www.mmediu.ro

Ministry of Culture & Cults: 30, Kiseleff Ave. Ph./Fax: 021-224-2510. www.cultura.ro

ANAT -National Association of Travel Agencies In Romania: 16, Splaiul Unirii. Ph.: 021-312-68-43; 021-312-08-02. Fax: 021-312-19-08. www.anat.ro

The Prefect's Office of Bucharest: 47, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-312-65-25; 9866 www. prefecturabucuresti.ro Bucharest City Hall: 24, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-305-55-00. www.pmb.ro Sector 1: 7-9, Banu Manta Blvd. Ph.: 021-319-10-13 to 17. Fax: 021-319-10-06; www.primariasector1.ro Sector 2: 11-13, Chiristigilor St. Ph.: 021-209-6000. Fax: 021-209-62-82. www.ps2.ro Sector 3: 2-4, Parfumului St. Ph.: 021-318-03-23 to 29. www.sector3primarie.ro

Sector 4: 6-16, George Cosbuc Blvd.

28-30, G-ral Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-405-6200. ww.w.edu.ro

Ph.: 021-335-9230. www.ps4.ro

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

Ph.: 021-314-46-80; Fax: 021-311-04-65

11, Poterasi St. Ph.: 021-336-1451; Fax: 021-336-18-43. www.mimmc.ro

Ph.: 021-318-0148. Fax: 021-318-01-52. www.primarie6.ro

Sector 5: 29-31, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Sector 6: 147-149, Calea Plevnei;

MOVING COMPANIES AGS Bucharest: 9, Pipera St., entr. 2, 2E Building, 3rd floor, apt. 11. Ph.: 021-201-17-91; Fax: 021-232-52-89; www.ags-worldwide-movers.com Allied Pickfords: 29,Topraisar St. Ph.: 021-221-95-46; Fax: 021-221-94-42. www.alliedintl.com Corstjens Bucharest: 7-9, Intrarea Gherghitei Ph.: 021-240-37-02; Fax: 021-240-37-03. www.corstjens.com De Groot IRS: 20, Parangului St. Ph.: 021-224-25-63; Fax: 021-668-64-25. www. degroot.ro Orbit Worldwide Movers: T98, T370 Bucuresti Urziceni, Afumati, Ilfov; Ph.: 021-350-15-00; Fax: 021-350-15-01. www.beinoglou.gr

FOREIGN TRADE CHAMBERS The American Chamber of Commerce: Union International Center; 11, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-312-48-34; Fax: 021-312-48-51. www.amcham.ro www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

Deutsch - Rum채nische Industrie und Handelskammer Bukarest: 35, Clucerului St., 2rd floor Ph.: 021-223-15-31; Fax: 021-223-15-38. www.ahkrumaenien.ro

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

NATIONAL AGENCIES T.I.C.C. of Romania: 2, Octavian Goga Blvd., Ph.: 021-319-01-14 / 18. www.ccir.ro National Trade Registery Office: 74A, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-08-04; Fax: 021-316-08-03. www.onrc.ro Bucharest Office of Trade Registery: 1, Sectorului Entr. Ph.: 021-316-08-20; 021-316-08-24. www.onrc.ro Romanian Foreign Trade Center: 17, Appolodor St. Ph.: 021-318-50-50; Fax: 021-311-14-91. www.traderom.ro Romanian Agency for Foreign Investments: 22, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-233-9103.

LAWYERS Kinstellar: 8, Nicolae Iorga St. Ph.: 021-307-15-00; Fax: 021-307-15-55. Mazars - Duncea, Stefanescu & Asociatii SCA: 31B, Economu Cezarescu St. Ph.: 031-229-26-00; Fax: 031-229-26-01. www.mazars.ro

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

Rubin Meyer Doru & Trandafir affiliated with Herzfeld&Rubin, P.C.: 7, Putu cu Plopi St. Ph.: 021-311-14-60; Fax: 021-311-14-65. www.hr.ro Salans-Moore, Vartires & Associates SCA: 28-C, General C. Budisteanu St. Ph.: 021-312-49-50; Fax: 021-312-49-51. www.salans.com

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

Bucuresti what, where, when

www.bucurestiwww.ro

www.deleanu.ro

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

COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Cosmote: 9-9A, Dimitrie Pompei Blvd., Building 19, Southern Wing, 1st floor; Ph.: 021-404-12-34; 0766-12-12-34; Fax: 021-413-75-30. www.cosmote.ro Orange Romania S.A.: 51-53, Lascar Catargiu Blvd., Europe House. Ph.: 021-203-30-30; 021-203-33-33; Fax: 2021-03-35-99. www.orange.ro RCS &RDS: 73-75, Dr. N. Staicovici St. Ph.: 031-400-44-40; Fax: 031-400-44-41. 031-400-60-60 for outside Bucharest Romtelecom: 1B, Garlei St. Ph.: 930; Fax: 925. www.romtelecom.ro Telemobil (Zapp): 11-15, Tipografilor St., Building B3-B4, 5th floor; Ph.: 021-402-44-44; Fax: 021-402-32-56. www.zapp.ro UPC Romania: 62D, Soseaua Nordului; Ph.: 9399; 031-100-04-00. www.upc.ro Vodafone Romania: 4A, Vasile Milea Blvd. Ph.: 021-302-22-22; Fax: 021-302-14-13. www.vodafone.ro

SCHOOLS The following English-speaking schools are located in Bucharest: International British School: 21-23, Agricultori St. Ph. 021-252-37-04, International Nursery School: 119, Sos. Nordului. Ph. 021-232-69-03, Mark Twain International School: 25B, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.0724-000-900; 021-267-89-12, Lauder Reut Kindergartden: 15, Barsch Iuliu St. American International School: 196, Soseaua Pipera-Tunari. Ph.: 021-204-43-00 International School of Bucharest: 428, Mihai Bravu St. Ph. 021-327-54-32.

MAIL SERVICES Cargus: 1, Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph.: 9330; Fax: 021-351-02-00. DHL International Romania: 85-87, Emanoil Porumbaru St. Ph.: 021-222-17-77; Fax: 021-222-17-66. Federal Express Romania: 13, Fermei St., Otopeni Ph.: 021-201-48-22; Fax: 021-201-48-27. Pegasus/Airborne Express: 13, Soseaua Iancului. Ph.: 021-250-93-60; Fax: 021-256-95-04. Posta Rapida/Express Mail: 140, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-200-75-00. TNT Express Worldwide: 1A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti, BBP, Corp C; Ph.: 021-303-45-67; Fax: 021-303-45-43. UPS - United Parcel Service: 81-83, Calea 13 Septembrie, Bl. 77 AB; Ph.: 021-410-06-04; Fax: 021-410-99-10.

AIRLINES

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.

PRIVATE FLIGHTS

AEGEAN: Henri Coanda Int’l Air-

EUROJET AVIATION: 5 C 24, Sev-

port. Ph: 021-204-19-68; 021-201-45-50 AEROFLOT: 5C 5, Gheorghe Manu St. Ph: 021-315-03-14; Fax: 021-312-51-52 AIR FRANCE: 6 C 85, Calea Buzesti, 2nd floor. Ph: 021-206-92-00; Fax: 021-206-92-11. AIR MALTA (GSA): 1 B Baneasa Int’l Airport, 14-22, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti. call centre: Ph: 021-201-18-52/2, Fax: 021-201-18-53 AIR MOLDOVA: 7 E 3, Toma Caragiu St. Ph: 021-312-08-22 ALITALIA: 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

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

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: 021-231-6570; BANK OF CYPRUS: 187 B, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph: 021-409-9100

BANCA COMERCIALA ROMANA: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph. 0801-0801-22; Fax: 021-407-4200

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

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

BRD - GROUPE SOCIETE GENERALE: 1-7, Ion Mihalache Blvd. Ph. 0800-803-803; 021-301-6100 Fax: 021-301-6636 CEC BANK: 11-13, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-311-1119; 0800.800.8488; Fax: 021-312-5425 CITIBANK ROMANIA: 8, Iancu de Hunedoara Blvd. Ph: 021-203-5550; Fax: 021-203-5565 CREDIT EUROPE BANK: 26Z, Timisoara Blvd. Ph: 021-406-4000; Fax: 021-317-2066 EMPORIKI BANK: 19, Berzei St. Ph. 021-310-3955; Fax: 021-310-3991 GARANTI BANK INT’L: Floreasca II Business Center, 40-44, Banu Antonache St. Ph: 021-230-8430; 021208-9260 Fax. 021-318-5690 ING BANK: 11-13, Kiseleff Blvd.Ph: 021-209-1798; Fax: 021-222-1401 LIBRA BANK: 11, Grigore Mora St. Ph. 021-208-8000; Fax: 021-230-6565 MARFIN BANK ROMANIA: 90-92, Emanoil Porumbaru St. Ph. 021-2064230; Fax: 021-206-4280 OTP BANK ROMANIA: 66-69, Buzesti St. Ph.: 021-307-5700; Fax: 021-307-5730 PIRAEUS BANK ROMANIA: 34-36, Carol I Blvd., ground floor & 3rd floor. Ph.: 021-303-6969; Fax: 021-303-6909 RAIFFEISEN BANK: 15, Charles de Gaulle Sq. Ph. 021-306-1000; Fax: 021-230-0700 ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND: 10, Montreal Sq., World Trade Center 2nd floor. Ph.: 021-202-0400 Call center: 0801-022-622 UNICREDIT TIRIAC BANK: 23-35, Ghetarilor St. Ph: 021-200-2000

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

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

Bucuresti what, where, when

On the following pages, boutiques, major department stores and specialty shops and markets are grouped by the type of product they sell. Most establishments are open Monday to Saturday from 10 or 11 am to 6 or 8 pm closing time. Malls and other boutiques are also open during the weekend, though some may close earlier on Sundays.

SHOPPING CENTERS 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. AFI PALACE COTROCENI: 4, Vasile Milea Blvd. 7 A BANEASA SHOPPING CITY: 42D, Sos. Bucuresti-Ploiesti BUCURESTI MALL: 55-59, Calea Vitan 8F

CARREFOUR GALLERY: Autostrada Buc-Pitesti, km 11/12

CITY MALL: 2, Sos.Oltenitei. COMMERCIAL CENTER FEERIA: 44A, Sos. Bucuresti Ploiesti

COMMERCIAL CENTER ORHIDEEA: 210 - 210 B, Spl. Independentei

GRAND ARENA MALL: 12 Metalurgiei

SELGROS: • Pantelimon, 90, Biruintei

Blvd..

Blvd; • Baneasa, 55-65, Bucuresti-Ploiesti • Berceni, 92-108, Turnu Magurele St.

GRAND AVENUE SHOPPING GALLERY: 90, Calea 13 Septembrie JW

Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel 8 B JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA: 103 Bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. LIBERTY CENTER: 151-171, Progresului St. 9 C

MARIO PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER: 172, Calea Dorobantilor

MILITARI SHOPPING: 546-560 Iuliu Maniu Blvd.

PLAZA ROMANIA: 26, Timisoara Blvd. RIN GRAND HOTEL SHOPPING GALLERY: 7D , Calea Vitan. UNIREA SHOPPING CENTER: 1, Unirii Square

WORLD TRADE PLAZA: 10, Montreal Sq.

CASH & CARRY

ESPLANADA SHOPPING CENTER:

METRO: • Militari • Baneasa • Berceni

20, Sos. Vergului.

• Voluntari

Bucuresti what, where, when

www.bucurestiwww.ro

HIPERMARKETS AUCHAN: 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd. CARREFOUR: • Militari, Autostrada Buc-Pitesti, km11/12. • Colentina, Soseaua Colentina 426 - 426A; • Orhideea, 210, Splaiul Independentei, • Baneasa Feeria, 44A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti • Unirii, 2, Corneliu Coposu Blvd. CORA: • Lujerului, 19, Iuliu Maniu Blvd. • Pantelimon, 20, Sos. Vergului BILLA: • 102-104, Barbu Vacarescu St. • 23, Brasov St. • 24, Postavaru St. IKEA: 42A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti XXL: 38-40, Soseaua Fundeni

DEPARTMENT STORES Old department stores in Bucharest are in a transition period. Besides specialized departments, it is not unusual to find a large number of small private “Turkish-bazaar”type stands inside. Crowded but convenient because of their diversity, the Bucharest depart-

ment stores offer low- to mid- (sometimes even high-) quality products. GALERIILE VICTORIA: 17, Calea Victoriei 7 D BUCUR OBOR: 2, Soseaua Colentina 5F

SUPERMARKETS There are stores in each section of town that present a complete range of products, from European to American, Arabian and Asian. Many world-wide brands are available. Prices may differ slightly because of the location of the store (downtown – periphery) or the availability of products. GIMA: Bucuresti Mall 8 F MEGA IMAGE: Every neighborhood has one!

COSMETICS & BEAUTY

BEAUTY SHOP: • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • 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

Avenue – 90, Calea 13 Septembrie

INA CENTER: • Unirea Shopping Cen-

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: Blumarine, Brioni & Alberta Ferretti, Radisson BLU Hotel - 63-81,Calea Victoriei 6 D KENVELO: Bucuresti Mall 8 F LANCEL: • Feeria Shopping Center; La Perla: 122, Calea Victoriei 6 D L’ARMOIRE - Concept Store: Special evening & office clothing, limited series or even uniques created by Romanian designers such as: Lena Criveanu, Wilhelmina Arz, Elena Perseil, Irina Marinescu, Dorin Negrau, Sepala by Mihaela Glavan, Kinga Varga, Ludmila Corlateanu, Zasha. 1, Intrarea Noptii with 18, Ion Mihalache Blvd. 5 C LOUIS VUITTON: 90,Calea 13 Septembrie (Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery)

ter (ground floor) 8 E • 27, I Campineanu St. 7 D • 14-16, CA Rosetti St. 6 D • WTC Galleries 3 B • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Esplanada Shopping Center • 103, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. - Jolie Ville • Cora Lujerului. PRIVILEGE: • 172, Calea Dorobantilor • Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4 D • Unirea Shopping Center 8 E • Carrefour Militari Gallery, • Carrefour Colentina Gallery, • Selgros Baneasa • Selgros Berceni, • Selgros Pantelimon

FASHION BLISS: Valentino, Louis Feraud, Calvin Klein, Lorenzini; 23, Calea Victoriei 7 D BERSHKA: Baneasa Shopping City

BRAY SUITE ANTHOLOGY: Bucuresti Mall C & A: Fashion for Men and Women. Militari Shopping CACHAREL: Fashion for Men. Baneasa Shopping City CASA FRUMOASA STORE- Luxury men’s wear, handmade shoes & exquisite accessories from: Scabal, Brioni, Loro Piana, Santoni, Lorenzini 40 Lascar Catargiu Blvd. 5 C J.W. Marriott Grand Hotel - The Grand Avenue – 90, Calea 13 Septembrie 8 B DISTINTO: Canali • 196, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D ELEGANCE BOUTIQUE - Classic ladies look, warm textures, garments, leather accessories & shoes, art jewellery J.W. Marriott Grand Hotel - The Grand

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA - Flagshipstore: Ermenegildo Zegna, Z Zegna,

Specialized men’s apparel • 118, Calea Victoriei 6 D MANGO: • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • Plaza Romania MARELLA: 21-23,Calea Victoriei 7 D MARIELLA BURANI: • 21-23, Calea Victoriei 7 D MARKS & SPENCER: • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • Orhideea Shopping Center MAXMARA: 122 A, Calea Victoriei 6 D

MENGOTTI: Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Etro, Prada, Alessandro dell’Aqua, Cesare Paciotti, Balli, Loro Piana. 4-50, Calea Victoriei 7 D MODA & STYLE: Valentino, Red Valentino, Love Moschino, D&G, Class Roberto Cavalli, Emanuel Ungaro, La Perla, Ferré, Love Sex Money, Givenchy, Emilio Pucci, DONNA KARAN, Roccobarocco, Moschino, Karl Lagerfeld, Stuart Weitzman, Cerruti, Lanvin. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae St., first floor. C.C. Accepted. Tax Free. MOTIVI: • Baneasa Shopping City • Bucuresti Mall 8F • Plaza Romania NAUTICA: Latest collection. • 35, N. Balcescu Blvd. 6 D • City Mall, 1st floor 2, Soseaua Oltenitei • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor -55-59, Calea Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua BucurestiPloiesti • “No 36”Shops PAL ZILERI: 63-81, Calea Victoriei 6 D PEEK & CLOPPENBURG: Armani Collezioni, Hugo Boss, Vogue, Burberry, Lagerfeld, Calvin Klein Jeans, DKNY Jeans • Baneasa Shopping City PULL & BEAR: • Baneasa Shopping City RIVER WOODS: • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Mario Plaza Shopping Center. 4 D

SEROUSSI, PIERRE CARDIN, BRUNO SAINT HILAIRE: • Bucuresti Mall. 8 F • Plaza Romania • America House - 4-8, N. Titulescu Ave. 5 C • 241, Calea Mosilor (Outlet) STEILMANN: • 1-5, Magheru Blvd 6 D • Plaza Romania • Bucuresti Mall 8 F TERZOATTO: Italian Fashion. 172, Calea Dorobantilor 3 B TIMBERLAND: Latest collection. • 35,

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

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

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)

Bucuresti what, where, when

HELVETANSA: Swiss watches: Baume & Mercier, Cartier, Movado, Longines, Piaget, Tissot, Rado, Vacheron Constantin. 88, Calea Victoriei 6 D ZEN DIAMOND: Baneasa Shopping City

top designer’s frames. 26, C.A. Rosetti St. 6 D

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 UMBRO: City Mall

OPTIPLAZA:

ANTIQUES

OPTICIANS OPTICA MALAGA: Large selection of

Top designer’s frames, sunglasses, accessories. • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Plaza Romania SOVER: • 102-110, Calea Dorobantilor 5 D • Unirea Shopping Center, Central wing ground floor. 8 D • 18, Vergului St. Cora - Esplanada Shopping Center Granitul • Galeriile Victoria 17, Calea Victoriei 7 D • Sover Medlife 365, Calea Grivitei • Cora - Lujerului • Sover Bucur Obor, 2, Soseaua Colentina

FOOTWEAR CESARE PACIOTTI: •101, Calea Victoriei

• 118, Calea Victoriei

DEICHMANN: • Militari Shopping • Grand Arena Mall ECCO: Men, women, kids & performance footwear. • Commercial Center Feeria • Baneasa Shopping City GEOX: • Plaza Romania • Bucuresti Mall 8F

HUMANIC: • Baneasa Shopping City • Militari Shopping

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

BOOK STORES NOI: 18, N. Balcescu Blvd.

INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORATION

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

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

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.

ADIDAS: • 28-30, Magheru Blvd.

• Bucuresti Mall. 8 E • 116-122, Calea Dorobantilor 5 D DECATHLON: Militari Shopping DIADORA: Auchan GBS - WORLD OF BRANDS: Samsonite, Lacoste - accessories, Showroom: • 71, Soseaua Panduri. 8 B (JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel) • World Trade Plaza (Sofitel Hotel) 10, Montreal Sq. 3 B • Henri Coanda Int’l Airport HERVIS SPORTS: • Liberty Center. 9 C • Militari Shopping INTERSPORT: 39, I.C. Bratianu Blvd. 8D

KAPPA: City Mall LACOSTE: • Baneasa Shopping City • Bucuresti Mall. 8 F

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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.

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. 7D

Bucuresti what, where, when

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

ANATOLIAN CARPET BOUTIQUE:

SPORTS EQUIPMENT & TRAVEL

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

ROMARTIZANA: 18-20, Calea Victoriei 7D

SARRA BLU’: • Unirea Shopping Cen-

ter • 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 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 LA CASA DEL HABANO: Large selection of original Cuban cigars; accessories. 1-3, Episcopiei St. (Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest) 6 D

LIQUOR SHOPS VINLUX: Large selection of special Romania & Imported wines, cognacs, champagnes, whiskies, etc. 8, Libertatii Blvd., Bl. 115, ground floor 8 C

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Bucuresti what, where, when

To make your choice a bit easier, we have selected a number of places for you. The following restaurants currently advertise in B3W Magazine or are otherwise worthy of note. Each listing has a code corresponding to the gridded area on our visitor’s map. Hours, prices and entertainment are subject to change.

ASIAN CUISINE

BELGIAN CUISINE

Benihana Teppanyaki Restaurant & Sushi Bar:

La Belle Epoque:

Flavors of Japan & world class Asian Chefs, preparing the food right in front of your eyes, tantalize all your senses in Bucharest’s Premier Teppanyaki Restaurant & Sushi Bar. 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor. Ph.: 021-201-5030. Open: 12:00-15:00, 19:00-23:00 last order. Cafe' Shangrila: Thai, Filipino, Chinese and Japanese food prepared by world class and versatile Asian chefs. Also serves choices of continental breakfast, salads, selection of wines and beverages. A place to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and have a taste of the scrumptious cake selections. Take out food service available. 172, Calea Dorobantilor (Mario Plaza Shopping Center) Ph.: 021-230-47-69. Open: 10:00 - 21:00 Maiko: 2 C One of the most fashionable Restaurant, Bar & Lounge. The ethos behind Maiko is that the true aims of cooking are to give pleasure and satisfaction to guests, to communicate trough each individual ingredient emotion, personality and culture; to create a special event with every dish, to produce a series of little surprises that invariably introduce a new flavour. The restaurant is always delighted to host your Business Lunches, daily between 12:00 and 15:00, and to offer you the perfect 25 Euro meal for such an occasion ( Includes Salad, Rice, Miso Soup, Meat or Fish Dishes). 27-29, Grigore GafencuSt. Ph.: 021-233-2633, 031-805-3985, 0751-262-465, 0730-562-456; Open: daily 12:00 - 24:00

Mandarin: Explore the exotic flavor of the Asian with Mandarin cuisine. Come join us and taste! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021206-8066. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 pm (22:00 – last order) Orasul Interzis (The Forbidden City): 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

Bucuresti what, where, when

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4 D The largest selection of Belgian beers in town. Belgian and international cuisine. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 6, Aviator Radu Beller St. Ph.: 021-230-0770; Open: 11:30 - 24:00. Waterloo: 7 F Original Belgian recipes with Belgian Beer. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking. 188, Traian St. Open daily from 12:00 - until the last guest leaves (24:00 last order)

BULGARIAN CUISINE Balcic: Wide range of Bulgarian appetizers and meals. Try spitted mutton & rabbit specialties! Nice decorated location. Smokers & non-smokers areas. C.C. accepted. 1, Stefan cel Mare Ave. (Perla block), Ph.: 021-230-55-35. Open: 11:00 – till the last guest

FRENCH CUISINE

Casa Vernescu: 6 D Exquisite restaurant in a historical building, hosting Casino Palace. Luxurious interior. Also Romanian cuisine. C.C accepted. 133, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9744; Fax: 021-311-1645. Open: 18:30-01:00. L’Estaminet: 6 B French restaurant, within the new Ibis Continental Nord Hotel. CC accepted. 143, Calea Grivitei. Open: 7:00-22:30. Heritage: 6 D The 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). Hilton Brasserie: 6 D The brasserie of the Hilton Hotel. Specialized in French cuisine. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Fax: 021-315-2121; Open: 12:00-24.00. La Bastille: 5 D Down the Caderea Bastiliei St. c’est la France qui vous acceueille... French specialties mastered by the Chef Philippe Faynot, served in refined atmosphere accompanied by a perfectly balanced choice of execelente french and romania wines. Special business menu (12:00 - 16:00). C.C. accepted. Air conditioning. Ph.: 021-310-7359; Fax: 021-310-7360. Open: 12:00-24:00.

FUSION/CONTEMPORARY CUISINE

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

Mju: A glamorous destination restaurant has opened in Bucharest. Modern French and Asian cuisine with breathtaking décor gives MJU a class of its own among Bucharest's elite. "MJU- so trendy that it hurts". Lunch set menu and all-day long discounts. Summer terrace. Air conditioning. CC accepted. 29, Vasile Lascar Street (intersection with Batistei Street) Ph: 021- 313-0015, 021-313-0016 Open: Mon.-Sun 12:00-24:00.

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

5C 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 - 24:00 (Mon. – Sat.) Reservation is highly recommended. Ph: 021-317-6007; 0733-735-932.

Champagne & Caviar Bar:

Turkey, Serbia and so on. Not only that the dishes are very tasty, but they have original and musical names which give any gourmand a hint of what is to be expected: Dolmasi, Sis Kebab, Adana Kebab, Dolmades, Pasticada, Fasulye Piyazi, Papricas, Lokma, Kadayif, Kolacki and many more. C.C. accepted. Location: Basement. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open: Breakfast 06:30 – 10:30 weekdays; 06:30 – 11:00 week-ends. Lunch 12:00 – 3:00; Dinner 7:00 – 11:00 Cafe Theatro Restaurant: 7 D Enjoy a simple and generous cuisine in our restaurant. Summer Terrace. C.C. accepted. Secure paying parking lot. 37B, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-312-5114. Open week days: 06:00 10:30; Lunch: 12:00 - 15:00; Dinner: 18:00 - 23:00 (last order). Open weekends: Breakfast: 06:00 - 11:30; Lunch: 12:30 - 15:00; Dinner: 18:00 - 23:00 (last order) Caredy * Casa Ardeleneasca: 4 C Transylvanian & International cuisine restaurant, placed in an esquisite villa. Large offer and special selection of wines. C.C. ccepted.Guarded parking lot. 1, Sofia St. Ph.: 021-230-2769. 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 qual-

ity and refinement. He made Capsa's name a well known commercial brand all over the continent. Having a very good position, this old and famous restaurant is placed right in the focal point of the Bucharest historical center. CC accepted. 36, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-313 40 38 Open: 12:0024:00 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: 5 C Within Ramada Plaza Convention Center Compound in a green island, Casa Doina is offering a luxury location, fully air-conditioned and a brand which is providing a special evening. With a adjoining playground for kids and terrace. C.C. accepted. 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-549-2541. Open: 12:00 - 23:30. Chez Marie: 6 D Try the wide selection of international cuisine and special wines in this recently opened restaurant located in the heart of the city. 48, Dionisie Lupu St. Ph.: 031-107-2033; 0721-376-118. Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. Concerto: 7 D Take your time to indulge in the special dishes of this fine dining restaurant. Open from Monday until Saturday, exclusively for dinner, the restaurant offers 56 seats. Guests can appreciate

INDIAN CUISINE

Agra Palace: From the City of Agra, once capital of the famous Mogul Empire, where the white marble of Taj Mahal guards the banks of river Yamuna, among the Hibiscus flowers and majestic archways, chef Arun Kumar has brought the essential: the mysterious taste of India. C.C. accepted; Free Wi fi internet access; Guarded parking lot. Open: 12:00 .- 24:00 Sos. Pipera-Tunari nr. 47. Ph: 021-350.31.14 Karishma: 6 F Traditional & contemporary Indian cuisine; finest Indian ingredients; Indian Chef native of New Delhi; Young, friendly well trained staff. Large selection of fine wines and cocktails. C.C. accepted. Parking lot. 36, Iancu Capitanu St. Ph.: 021-252-5157. Open: 12:00 - last guest (Mon. Sat.) 15:00 - until the last guest (Sun.) Taj: 8 B Indian cuisine. Genuine Northern Indian menu creared by Indian chef. Special brunch offer. Indian live show, Fri & Sat. Indian decoration, soft music, pleasant atmosphere, separate smoking area. Air conditioned; terrace. C.C. accepted. Parking lot. 127-131, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-410-1820. Open: 12:00 - 02:00.

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. Balkan Bistro: 7 D The enticing dishes you will find here offer you the perfect Balkan saveur. The restaurant welcomes you with a modern atmosphere dominated by the red and black colors (specific to all Balkan countries). The menu offers traditional specialties allowing you to sense the gastronomic specificity of the countries which belong to this particular area: Albania, Greece, Romania, www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

the fusion cuisine concept based upon French and Italian dishes with an Asian touch. The wine list is complex, including selections from all the regions of our country but also from France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, North and South America. A professional team will counsel you regarding the dishes and the wine types, accompanying you through the whole evening. C.C. accepted. Location: Ground Floor. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open: Mon. – Sat., 19:00 – 23:00 Corso Brasserie: Take your business downtown and treat yourself and your partners to a special mix of international and Romanian cuisine, buffet or à la carte in the Corso Brasserie. The spectacular view onto Bucharest’s busiest boulevard is complimentary! 85 seats Air conditioned. Free parking. InterContinental Hotel, 4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-310-2020; Open daily: 06:30 - 23:00; Business Lunch Buffet: Monday-Friday, from 12:00 to 16:00 hrs. Every Sunday, from 12:00 to 16:00 hrs. we offer a top quality “Brunch on the Boulevard”. Kids’ room with entertainment. Crowne Plaza “Brasserie”: 2 A The “Brasserie” will entice you with its casual ambiance, great homemade specialties, numerous theme buffets and entertaining atmosphere. C. C. accepted. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-224-0034; Open: 18:00-23:30. Cupola: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, Cupola is an all-day International dining restaurant. Great American breakfast buffet, modern classics evening menu and mouth-watering Sunday brunch. CC accepted. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021403-1903; Open: for breakfast (06:30-11:30) & Sunday Brunch (12:00 - 16:00) Dacia Felix: 6 D Group restaurant within Radisson SAS Hotel for 224 persons. Terracce available. 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Super Breakfast Buffet: Mon.-Fri. 6:30 - 10:30, Sat. & Sun. 7:00 - 11:00, Sunday Brunch 12:00 - 16:00. Hotel Marshal Restaurant: 7 E From the glassy salon, the open kitchen and the charming covered terrace, Marshal Restaurant is waiting for you with delicious dishes carefully selected and prepared in front of you. Our secret: the charcoal grill. Fresh imported Argentinean beef and New Zealand lamb. C.C accepted. Air conditioned. Guarded parking. 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St.; Ph.: 021-314-0880; Open: 07:00-01:00 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; 0724-365-583. Open: 12:00-until the last guest leaves (23:30 - last order) La Boema: Enjoy the European cuisine, the selected French dishes in the "La Boema" Restaurant. The relaxing atmosphere and the delicious dishes will make you realize why it is called "La Boema"... And if you have not understood yet, we bring especially for you an entire collection of refined wines. C.C. Accepted. Air Conditioning, parking. Calea Vitan Barzesti 7 D ; Ph.: 031-106-1111 ext. 345 Open: 11 am - until the last guest leaves. Madrigal Restaurant: We offer a full à la carte menu with our famous, suculent prime Argentinian

Bucuresti what, where, when

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beef cuts as our signature dishes. International cuisine at its best! 65 seats. Air conditioned. Free parking. InterContinental Hotel. 4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-310-2020; Open: Monday - Saturday,18:00 23:00 . Majestic: 7 D Classic, luxurious restaurant with an intimate atmosphere, café-concert music. Snack bar and catering services. Major C.C. accepted. 11 Academiei St. Ph.: 021-310-2720; Open: 12:00 - 23:00. Manolo: 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 with delicious pizza made in the oven with wood. 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 Prime Steaks & Seafood: 6 D Grill Steak & Seafood restaurant within Radisson SAS Hotel for 44 persons. Red glass for show kitchen, walk in wine cellar set-up in a hot, relaxed and upscale mood. 6381, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Lunch: Monday to Friday 12:30 - 15:00; Dinner: Monday to Sunday 18:30 - 23:00. Sangria: 5 D International menu, few Spanish dishes, nice atmosphere. Open/covered terrace! C.C. accepted. 78, Caderea Bastiliei St. Ph.: 021-211-2276; Open: 12 pm - 12 am. Times Restaurant: 7 G Panoramic view restaurant with great Romanian and International cuisine at Golden Tulip Times Hotel. C.C. accepted. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6516. Open: 12:30-23:00. The Harbour: 6 D You’ve come a long way... you need to relax... dock to The Harbour where you will find a buffer zone, the taste of the finest international cuisine and maybe an acquaintance just to make you feel you belong... Terrace and parking. C.C. accepted. 10-22, Piata Amzei; Ph.: 0724-388-686; Open: 11:30 - until the last guest leaves. The Sunlight Restaurant: The culinary world of the angelo Airporthotel Bucharest is provided by this restaurant. A copious buffet breakfast, a gala dinner and a variety of Romanian and international dishes are at your disposal every day. The Sunlight Restaurant has a capacity of approx. 110 persons. For special events such as cocktail parties, anniversaries or dinner parties, the conference rooms can be turned into functional restaurant rooms. And the stylish live music may even put you in the mood for dancing. CC accepted. 283 Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph: 021 20 36 500; Fax: 021 20 36 530; Open 24 hours a day. White Horse Business & Events: Situated in the Northern area of Bucharest, the new established business district of the city, the restaurant offers carefully prepared traditional and international specialties for daily lunch while being in the same time the perfect location for corporate & private events. 12 years of experience, professional services and equipment and the dedicated staff assigned complete the fine quality of the taste. C.C. accepted. Baneasa Business &Technology Park, Building B, wing B2, 42-44, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti, Ph.: 031620-8412; Open: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 18:00

ITALIAN CUISINE

6 D Northen Italian Menu restaurant within Radisson SAS Hotel for 126 persons. Enoteca, espresso bar, pizzeria, salumeria, gelateria, pasticceria in a fresh, natural, urban and contemporary mood. Terracce for 96 persons available. 63-68, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-601-3436.Open: 11:30 - 23:30.

Caffé Città:

Caffe & Latte: 7 C Wine Restaurant. Our Italian chef will remind you the taste of the real Italian food from the north of Italy, accompanied by the best Italian wines. Rooftop with park view - Cismigiu - in spring/summer. C.C. accepted. 35, Schitu Magureanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-3800; 0744-333-100. Open: Mon. - Sat. 12:00 - 23:00. Cucina: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Authentic Italian food served in rustic surroundings. Fine choice of wines. Calea 13 Septembrie 90. Ph. 021-403-1902. Open: 12:00 - 15:00; 19:30 – 23:30 De Gustibus: 6 F Restaurant, Terrace & Pizzeria. A menu dedicated to only the most simple, appetizing and brilliantly executed Italian dishes, mainly with a Tuscan twinge. Happy Hours 11:30 - 16:00, From Mon. to Fri. 10% Off. Air conditioned. CC accepted. Parking lot. 10, Marcel Iancu St. Ph. 021-211-1449; 0744-520106. Open: 12:00 - 24:00 Roberto’s: 6 D The main restaurant of the Hilton Hotel. Specializes in Italian cuisine from various Italian regions, including Tuscany, Rome and Venice. With a genuine Italian Chef. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777; Open: 06:30 - 24:00. Trattoria “Il Calcio”: 6 D Extensive menu of Italian dishes. Large selection of wines, beers and spirits. Nice interiors, relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff. 14, Mendeleev St. Ph.: 021-312-2430; 0722-134-299. Open: Sun - Thu: 12:00 - 24:00, Fri - Sat: 12:00 - 01:00. Zigolini: A taste of Italy in Zigolini Ristorante! A deliciously intimate dining experience nestled in the most elegant Galleria of Bucharest! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021-2068069. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 (22:00 – last order).

MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE Alfresco - Restaurant & Lounge: Famous dishes from Portugal, Italy, Spain, Marocco, Greece and France, such as : Skate Wing, Cataplana, Sea food risotto, Fillet of Turbot, Grilled Calamari with chorizo sausage, Surf & Turf, Tiramisu Savoiardi. Excellent service, great atmosphere! C.C. Accepted. Air conditioning, parking lot. 11, Uruguay St. Ph./Fax: 021222-7700 / 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: 021-2303210, 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. Les Oliviades: 2 B Stunning decoration recreating a typical Provençale home, for an experience of relaxation, with the delight of quality Mediterranean dishes. 10, Montreal Sq. Ph.: 021-318-3000. Open: 06:30 - 24:00. Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete and intimate place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96; 0722-204-884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00.

MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE 7 E Best Turkish restaurant in town. Full range of kebab dishes, Turkish aperitifs and traditional sweets. Catering service available. 18-20, Hristo Botev St. (near C.A. Rossetti Square).

Golden Falcon:

Ph.: 021-314-2825; 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 winecellar, large selection of Romanian wines, traditional Romanian customs and hospitality. CC accepted. 285A, Calea Bucuresti. Ph.: 021-236-1510; Ph./Fax: 021-236-1511. Count Dracula Club: 7 D Unique theme restaurant, with a cozy atmosphere. Transylvanian and venison dishes. C.C. accepted. 8A, Splaiul Independentei. Ph.: 021-312-1353; 0788-312-878. Open: 16:00 - until the last guest leaves. Decebal Rustic: G 7 Exquisite Romanian dishes. C.C. accepted. 17, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-321-67-00; 0723-515-009; Open:. 10:00 until the last guest leaves 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.

VEGETARIAN CUISINE

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

COFFEE SHOPS 7 C Italian Coffee Bar & Pastries Shop. One of the best cappuccino in town, just like in Italy. You may come and try it with our homemade pastry. 35, Schitu Magureanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-3834. Open: Mon. - Sun. 08:00 - 22:00. Cafe Klein: 7 D At Rembrandt Hotel mezzanine, Café Klein is an intimate and pleasant place for all guests who want to enjoy either a delicious breakfast or just a glass of wine. Open 12:00 – 19:00 also for those who are not the hotel's guests. The bar is for non-smokers. Free wi-fi internet inside the bar for all clients. 11, Smardan St. Ph/Fax: 021-313-9315; 021-313-9316 Grand Cafe Galleron: Large selection of drinks & coffes, quality simple food. Charming interiors, cozy atmosphere. Located in the heart of the city close to Atheneum in a superb old villa. C.C. accepted. Air conditioning. 18A, Nicolae Golescu St.

Caffe & Latte:

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Bucuresti what, where, when

Ph.: 021-312-4565. Open: 09:00 - 24:00. Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest: Over 1500 sqm building; one of the largest HRCs in Europe, the new Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest has inside seating for 300 guests plus an outside terrace with a view over the lake and additional seating for 150. 32, Kiseleff Avenue. Ph.: 021-206-6261. Open: 12:00 - 23:30 Hilton Le Bistrot: 6 D Cosy, friendly atmosphere, perfect for enjoying sastey snacks, drinks and the French - Style pasty counter. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Open: 12:00 - 24:00 Jolie Cafe: Ideal venue for a coffee break or a business meeting. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking lot. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St., groundfloor. Ph.: 021-206-8067. Open: daily 12:00 - 22:00. Geisha Cafe: High quality coffe in a very popular downtown location. 10, C.A. Rosetti St. Ph.: 021-315-7298. Open: 08:30 - 24:00. Kartell Cafe - Lounge: Nice cafe located downtown in historical part of the city. Friendly staff. Small summer terrace. St. Smardan 7. Ph.: 0749-057-770. Open: 10:00 - till last customer. Tekaffe: 6 B The ideal atmosphere for your portion of energy. Large selection of coffees, cocktails, sandwiches, salads and delicious desserts. Within Hello Hotels. 143, Calea Grivitei. Ph.: 0372-121 821; Open: week days 11 am- 2 pm; Sat-Sun 11 am- 22 pm Times Cafe: Large selection of coffee, cocktails and fancy drinks, sandwiches, salads and deserts. Summer terrace. Within the Golden Tulip Times Hotel. C.C. accepted. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6516. Open: 09:00-23:00. Vienna Cafe: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Chocolate, pastry and cake lovers, this is the place for you - known to be so good that ladies go there for a lunch of cakes only! Viennese and International desserts, freshly baked tarts, cakes

Bucuresti what, where, when

and pastries. Wedding cakes on order. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021-403-1901; Open: 09:00 - 23:00.

PUBS, COCKTAIL BARS & CLUBS Bar “37”: 7 D A trendy and dynamic bar, placed in the main hall of Novotel Bucarest City Centre Hotel. Secure paying parking lot. C.C. accepted. 37B, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-308-8500/ext.7600. Open daily: 07:00 - 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 Dark Bla Bar: 6 D Cognac & cigars bar within Radisson SAS Hotel for 34 persons. Single Malts, Cognacs & Cigars in an upscale & late night mood. 6381, Calea Victorie. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 17:00 02:00. Light Bla Terrace: 6 D Outdoor, atrium bar within Radisson SAS Hotel. Beverages, cocktails, cakes, pastries, snacks in a chill, cool stuff and contemporary mood. Terracce available. 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 12:00 – 02:00. Bla Lounge Bar: 6 D Ice bar within Radisson SAS Hotel for 108 persons. Vodka, Cocktails, Beverages & Snacks in a hear, feel and taste mood. 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 02:00; Sunday 09:00 till midnight. Champions: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. The American Sports Bar and Restaurant. A place for good food, good times and good

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sports. Live TV Sport coverage on 27 flat screen TV sets. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021-403-1917;Open: 17:00 - 01:00 . Crowne Plaza “Lobby Bar”: 2 A Crowne Plaza Lobby Bar is the best place for an apperitif, a glass of wine or beer (every time with peanuts and snacks) and for a cocktal. The professional bartender is happy to fulfill your every wish, creating a special cocktail for you. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-224-0034. Open: 06:00 - 24:00. Centro Bar & Lounge: 6 D In the throbbbing heart of Bucharest, be part of the city center action in Centro Bar & Lounge, while savoring your tailor made cocktails in the hospitality of our experienced bartenders. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel. 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor. Ph.: 021-201-5030; 021-224-3000; Open: 09:00-23:00 last order. 2nd Centro Bar & Lounge: 2 A It is a great inner city Bar & Lounge newly opened. It was made with the finest furniture and design, to look very trendy indeed. The greatest cocktails and coffees are made here. The food is just fantastic! The menu is filled with interesting dishes, crammed with fresh ingredients. At every lunchtime you can find also a menu of the day. The crowd is super cool; you can party late in the night weekends. Friday & Saturday DJ Y-lau is spinning tunes and setting the groove. 239, Calea Dorobantilor; Ph.: 021-331-5533; Open: 8:00-24:00. The Dubliner Irish Pub: 5 B Genuine Irish atmosphere. Draught beer. Air-conditioned. Very popular among the members of the English speaking community. 18, Titulescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-222-3737; 021-222-9473. Open: 12:00 - 02:00. Gaia Bar & Lounge: Perfect place for special parties. Interior design made by well known Romanian fashion designer C.C. accepted. 40-44 Banu Antonache St. Ph.: 0726-327-061. Open: Thu. - Sun. 22:00 - till morning, Green Hours 22 Jazz Café: 5 C Hip and unique. Enjoy exotic cocktails and coffee in a neon-lit, tubeshaped bar, with live, trippy jazz-rock on one end and cozy couches on the other-like spending an evening in a surreal submarine. Also a relaxing outdoor patio that's packed on weekend nights. Music most nights after 9 pm.. Morning coffee or nightly cocktails. 120, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 0722-234-356. Open: non-stop The Sky Gate Bar: This bar of the angelo Airport hotel Bucharest offers a pleasant and relaxing environment where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, an afternoon tea, a refined cocktail or simply a cigarette in pleasant company. The hotel’s professional bartenders are always there just when you need them. Located right beside the lobby and restaurant, the bar offers its guests an intimate, private area. CC accepted. 283 Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph: 021 20 36 500; Fax: 021 20 36 530; Open 24 hours a day. The Harp Irish Pub: 8 D Very popular Irish hangout with great selection of beer, a warming atmosphere downstairs complete with fireplaces candle-lit tables and extensive seating upstairs. Guaranteed to be packed with younger Romanians and expats alike any weekend evening. The second Irish hangout in Bucharest. Air-conditioning. C.C. accepted. 1, Piata Unirii. Ph.:021-335-6508. Open: 09:00 - until the last guest leaves. Hilton English Bar: 6 D Within the Hilton Hotel. C.C. accepted. St. Episcopiei 1-3. Ph.: 021-303-3777/ ext. 3962. Open: 11:00-02:00. Intermezzo Bar: After a meeting or before a concert relax and enjoy the live piano music. 50 seats. InterContinental Hotel. 4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. Ph.:021-310-2020 Open daily: 08:00 -01:00 Onx Pub: 6 A Lot of fun, karaoke, live concerts & special parties. 290, Splaiul Independentei, Regie P16 Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. Orange Bar (lobby bar): If you are looking for a place to enjoy the highest standards, a perfect coffee, fresh sandwiches, sft drinks and the best cognac in town, you most go high, go North! C.C. accepted. 44A, Daniel Danielopolu. St. Ph.: 021-233-5000

Open: daily 10:00-24:00 Pavilion Lounge: 8B Within the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Your favorite drink, accompanied by Chef’s choice of canapés, in a relaxed atmosphere. CC accepted. 90, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-403-1904. Open: non-stop. Trafalgar Pub: 5 D Beer, wines, spirits and snacks. Close to Turkish Embassy on Calea Dorobantilor. 4A, David Emanuel St. Ph.: 021-211-3151. Open: 11.00 - till last gues. Twice: 8 E Your only vice. Cocktail bar & exquisite club. Two floors, two music levels, two art galleries. The ideal place to meet a friend or to see a celebrity. 4 St. Vineri St. Open: 09:00 - 05:00. 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 the English Bar – Victoria Club. Here you can taste some delicate brews while engaging in succulent conversation during traditional English afternoon tea time, taste some of the delicious snacks or try something from the list of over 30 spirits. Cigars are available to round off your evening. C.C. accepted. Location: Ground Floor. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open:10:00 – 02:00 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 Madrigal:

Piano Bar on the 2nd floor of the Intercontinental Hotel. Quiet Club for pleasant cocktails. 4, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-310-2020. Open: 09:00- 23:00.

8F Rafined Int’l menu. 55-59, Calea Vitan (Bucuresti Mall, 2nd floor). Ph.: 021-321-0086. Open: 10:00 - midnight.

Beverly Hills Bistro:

6 D Brasserie, Pastry shop and French Bistro at the ground floor of the Hilton Hotel. CC accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Open: 08:00-24:30 Bistro, 12:00-24:00 Brasserie.

Café Royal:

Kentucky Fried Chicken: 6 D Chicken-based food. Summer terrace. CC accepted. 28-30, Magheru. Ph.: 021-312-0023. Open: 10:00-23:00. 6 D The same menu across the world. CC accepted. 1-7, Calea Dorobantilor. Ph.: 021-201-1755. Open: 11:00-23:00.

Pizza Hut:

DISCOS Blue Night: 6 A This is the place for joy and fun. 290, Splaiul Independentei. (Complex Regie R3). Ph.: 021-222-8821. Open: 22:00-05:00.

Club A: 7 D The hang-out of architecture students, a good choice for Monday nights. Air conditioning. 14, Blanari St. Ph.: 021-315-68-53. Open: 20:00-05:00

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

Mike’s Delivery: Oriental & European dishes. Ph.: 021-320-2030. Open: 10.00-24.00.

Wu Xing: Chinese menu. Phone: 021-222-2126. Open: daily. 10:00-22:30. The Editor: We decline the responsibility for any changes in the schedule.

We have compiled for you a list of the nicest places in Bucharest for nightlife relaxation to help you lose your daily stress. For more details please read our Bucuresti by Night supplement, in the middle of the magazine (where available). NIGHT CLUBS Bamboo: 39, Ramuri Tei St., www.bamboosportingclub.ro Ph.: 0722-132-283, 0788-296-776 Cuando Club: 35-37, Academiei St., www.cuando.ro; Ph.: 0722-505085 Disco Club Maxx: 290, Splaiul Independentei, www.clubmaxx.ro; Ph.: 021-223-00-39 Embryo: 3, Ion Otetelesanu St., www.embryo.ro Ph.: 0727-379-023 Fuchsia: 18, I. Brezoianu St., www.fuchsia.ro Ph.: 0727-315-713 Gossip: 9-11, Lanariei St., www.clubgossip.ro Ph.: 0721-GOSSIP Kristal Glam Club: 2, J.S. Bach St., ww.clubkristal.ro Ph.: 021-231-21-36, 0721-993-988 Music Club: 31, Baratiei St. Ph.: 021-314-61-97 The Office: 8, Tache Ionescu St., www.theoffice.ro Ph.: 021-211-67-48 Posh Club: 19, Orhideelor Ave., www.clubposh.ro Ph.: 0751-157-575 Session: 47-49, Elefterie St., www.session.ro Ph.: 0729-292-541, 0721-151-649 Studio Martin: 41, Iancu de Hunedoara Blvd., www.studiomartin.ro. Ph.: 0722-399-228

Temple: 25, Splaiul Independentei, www.clubtemple.ro; Ph.: 0748-881-086, 313-35-75, 0727-297-610

MASSAGE PARLOURS 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 Illusion Massage: Luxury salon Erotic Massage. Phone: 0735-750-991; www.illusionmassage.ro 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

THE LAST WORD • Volume 16 • Number 10 • • December 2009 - January 2010 • Published by Crystal Publishing Group srl. http://www.bucurestiwww.ro

Publisher: LUDWIG GELOBTER Editor-in-Chief: SORANA MAN

Dear Reader,

Coordinating Editor: Gabriel Arsene Web Site: Vlad Alexandrescu Editorial Dept. e-mail: office@bucurestiwww.ro

I know it’s a cliche to say “how quickly time flies”, and yet its true, maybe that’s why it is a cliche. We have come to the end of another year, and the beginning of a new, and hopefully better one. As I get older, time does seem to pass more quickly, even if I am not having a lot of fun. I am reminded of an old American miners union song: “Another year older, and deeper in debt. St. Peter don’t take me,’cause I can’t go I owe my soul to the company store…” We don’t quite owe our “soul”, but it has been a tough year for the publishing industry, and especially the print media. But, we have made it through, with the hard work and understanding of our entire team. I am told that the worst is behind us, and that the economy will begin to turn around in the spring. Nietzsche once said “that which does not kill you makes you stronger”, and we are still alive, ready to move forward, determined and stronger.

early to know what the political party make up of the parliament will be. Hopefully a new government will be formed quickly, and will be able to begin to function as soon as possible. An IMF loan and EU assistance, which could be the stimulus to turn the economy around more quickly, depend on that. Recessions are never easy, and the current one has made life difficult for many of us, and winter, with increased energy and heating costs, will not be easy for many more... But difficult times also bring opportunities, and I believe that there will be many opportunities to make good investments in Romania during the coming year, for people with foresight and courage. We too will be looking at new projects in 2010. On behalf of our entire CPG team we wish all of you a Healthy and Joyous Holiday Season, and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Sarbatorile Fericite!

By the time most of you read this, the run-off election will be over, and we will know who the President of Romania will be over the next 5 years. As I write this it is too

Ludwig Gelobter, Publisher lgelobter.bucurestiwww.ro

MAKE A LITTLE MONEY, HAVE A LOT OF FUN, BUT WORK HARD

CPG IS LOOKING FOR AN EDITOR Send CVs to: sorana.man@bucurestiwww.ro lgelobter@bucurestiwww.ro; office@bucurestiwww.ro

Ph./Fax: +4021-323-3829; +4021-323-7033

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Crystal Publishing Group 253, Calea Calarasilor Bl 67 A, Suite 4 Bucharest, Romania Phone & Fax: (004021) 323-3829; (004021) 323-7033, (004021) 323-4706 Executive Director: Valeriu Stefanescu Oancea Financial Manager: Victoria Serban Marketing & Sales Department Senior Sales Executive: Sorin Patrascu Sales Representatives: Elena Marinescu, Onut Gheorghe e-mail: advertising@bucurestiwww.ro GRAPHIC & DTP OFFICE Art Director: Mihai-Cristian Rampelt DTP Designer: Aurel Preda To Advertise in Bucuresti What, Where, When call: Phone & Fax: (004021) 323-3829; (004021) 323-7033 (004021) 323-4706 or e-mail at: advertising@bucurestiwww.ro North America US International Office 1001 W. Pinhook Road, Suite 300, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA Ph: +1 337 704 0554 Annual subscription Romania 80,00 Lei Payable to Crystal Publishing Group Banca Comerciala Romana – filiala sector 4 Bucharest Account no.: RO08 RNCB 0075035221160001 (Lei). For all other countries Euro 36,00. Please send the order and a check or money order to Crystal Publishing Group 1001 W. Pinhook Road, Suite 300, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA Circulation up to 21,500 copies. Distributed on a complimentary basis in major hotels: Alexander, Ambasador, angelo Airport Hotel, Armonia, Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest, Capitol, Caro, Carol Parc, Central, Centre Ville Aparthotel & Elite Apartments, Class, Confort Otopeni, Confort Traian, Crowne Plaza, Dalin, Dalin Center, Duke, Elizeu, Golden Tulip Times, Golden Tulip Bucharest, Hello Hotels, Herastrau, Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Ibis Gara de Nord, Ibis Palatul Parlamentului, Inter-Continental, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, Lev Or, Marshal, Minerva, NH Bucharest, Novotel Bucarest City Centre, Parliament, Pullman Bucharest, Radisson BLU Bucharest, Ramada Majestic Bucharest, Ramada Bucharest North, Ramada Parc, Ramada Plaza, Rembrandt, Rin, Rin Grand, Starlight Suite Hotels, Tempo, Tulip Inn Bucharest City, Venetia; Airlines and airline offices: Air France, Air Malta, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, Balkan Air, British Airways, Carpatair, CSA, EL AL, Emirates, Eurojet Aviation KLM, LOT, Lufthansa, Malev, Olympic Airways, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, SN Brussels Airlines, Swiss Int’l. Air Lines, Turkish Airlines; rent a car agencies; government offices, business centers, important banks & consulting companies.

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