C O N T E N T S
editorial
MARCH 2011 5
Mardi Gras Vs. Martisor
EVENTS Chinese “Rabbit” New Year Fireworks
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COVER STORY
The Newest Monuments of the City 9
EXPAT CORNER Balancing Between American and Romanian Banking
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TRAVEL Traveler in Medias and Marginimea Sibiului
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SPECIAL HOTEL LISTING
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DEPARTMENTS
• News, Events and Attractions • The Last Word 14 23
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10 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
Earth Hour 2011 There are still a few days until the 2011 Earth Hour - an event which has created a global community ready to engage in environmental issues every day, not only during the Earth Hour. Since its first edition in 2007, when 2 million homes and offices of companies in Sydney turned off the lights for one hour, Earth Hour has evolved and become the largest environmental event in history, involving hundreds of millions of people on all continents. ìThe campaign grown so quickly, in just four years, it has shown that there are hundreds of millions of people who want to do
Gabriel ARSENE •
One facet of Louisiana that makes it such an appealing visitor destination is its deep and colorful history. Louisiana offers many ways to explore the region’s history, in hundreds of museums, historic buildings, landmarks, artifacts and works of art. But many visitors come here especially for Mardi Gras, the greatest free party on Earth! It’s an entire season of merriment and festivity, the Carnival season, which starts after Boxing Day, Jan 6, and culminates with the biggest blowout of all on “Fat Tuesday” - Mardi Gras. In New Orleans, Mardi Gras is a cultural phenomenon which involves the whole community and takes the form of both elaborate parades, black ties balls and loose block parties. Although it may seem raucous and alcohol driven, visitors are most surprised by how family-friendly Mardi Gras really is. The most visible and accessible manifestations of Carnival are its famous parades. Though the number of parades may change from year to year, visitors can expect to find more than 50 processions scheduled during the two weeks proceeding and including Mardi Gras day in New Orleans and its suburbs. Big parades and festivities also fill Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, during Carnival, within eyesight of the state capitol. Coming back in Romania, the same period of the year is filled with several celebrations dedicated to women. Starting with Dragobete, a late February Romanian love salutation, continuing with Martisor, on March 1, the day when we offer flowers and the small symbols of our love, and until March 8, International Women’s Day, when we celebrate their historic achievements. During this period, restaurants and pubs in Bucharest have many special offers, mostly for romantic dinners! But where are the parties? Instead of making our women shopaholics, giving them our credit cards, let’s party together, and with all our friends, and with all the visitors of the city.
more for the planet,î said Andy Ridley, cofounder and Executive Director Earth Hour International. “I’m very happy to see how this campaign grows from one year to the next as more and more people join us. It is important to me that people receive our message and consider it, and then it shows in their everyday behavior. I want to thank all Romanians who join the Earth Hour campaign every year”, said Zoli Toth, the Romanian Ambassador for Earth Hour. Earth Hour 2010 was the largest voluntary environmental action ever. On March 27, 2010, at 20:30 local time, the lights were
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turned off in 4,500 cities in 128 countries. For 2011, Romania is more than ever committed to the global campaign, proof are thousands of messages on the site www.earth-hour.ro and on social networks, participation of 37 cities and dozens of companies, but also the media coverage of this event. Earth Hour is a global campaign initiated by WWF. Companies, governments, communities and people everywhere are invited to turn off their lights for one hour, a sign of concern for environmental issues. Earth Hour 2011 will take place on March 26 at 20:30 local time. Please join us!
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NEWS, EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Rebengiuc Has a Star!
Denta
The great Romanian actor Victor Rebengiuc has a star since February. In Time Square, near the Cocor store, the Ro-
March 9 - 12, Romexpo
Exhibition of products and dental equipment. Denta is the most important Romanian trade show for decision-makers from dental practices, dental labs, the specialist dental trade, the dental industry and from research and development. Exhibition themes: Equipment, devices, tools and materials for dental practice; Equipment, devices, tools and materials for represents to this day the most important event of its kind in Romania, bringing together the industry’s elite companies in a set up patronized by the Romanian Ministry of Regional Development and Tourism. The 2011 Spring edition of the Romanian Tourism Fair brings together in the Central Pavilion of Romexpo Exhibition Center travel agencies, tour operators, tourism authorities and professional associations, organizers of congresses and business travel,
manian theater and film artist is neighbor on the Walk of Fame with the star of Florin Piersic, who was awarded in January. Only the two of them are for the moment in this place created for celebrating personalities of Romanian culture. Victor Rebengiuc recently celebrated 78 years. At the ceremony, he said: “It’s almost a lifetime in which I learned a lot (...). What I haven’t learned so far is how to get honors. It is a terrible torture!”
Ideas Needed for the Cultural Olympiad Romanian Cultural Institute (ICR) announced a public competition for project ideas for the Cultural Olympiad held in London in 2012. UK Cultural Olympiad is a complex British program, consisting of actions and events to celebrate creativity and diversity of artistic expression in the context of international participation at the Olympics, with its main theme “London, seen as a global capital of artistic creativity.” ICR plans to participate in the Cultural
Olympiad with a program of projects to generate a significant impact and to distinguish by excellence the Romanian offer between over 1,000 artistic events scheduled to take place under the aegis of the Cultural Olympiad. The Romanian program will consist in part of projects developed from advanced initiatives of independent cultural operators, individuals or organizations, selected on a competitive basis through a public competition for project ideas, which runs until March 6. The selection will choose not more than 15 project ideas, that will be further developed.
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dental laboratories; Services, substances and equipment for infections control and treating; Information, communication and organizational services.
Romenvirotec
March10 – 13, Romexpo
The International Exhibition for Environment Protection Technologies, Equipment, Recycling, Secondary Raw Materials and Alternative Energies will be held between March 10 - 13, at Romexpo Exhibition Centre Bucharest Romania. Romenvirotec represents the most important international exhibition in Romania, dedicated to the Environment Protection, acknowledged year event for those involved in environmental protection preoccupied by respecting EU Directives, the main meeting place for experts of this field. Romenvirotec 2010 was organized under the High Patronage of The Romanian Ministry of Environment and gathered 102 companies from 13 countries on a 3,082 sqm area; during the exhibition 4,200 specialists visited, and the companies presented them the newest technologies in the environment protection sector. All those who offer or look for the latest technologies and services are invited at Romenvirotec 2011, which is the perfect place for getting in touch with information and debates at conferences, lectures and workshops that will unfold during the exhibition.
TTR – Romanian Tourism Fair
The 25th edition, March 31 –April 3, Romexpo
For the past 10 years, TTR has been more than a platform that supports the Romanian tourism and its development and
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spa resorts and tourist complexes, hotels, hostels, undertakings providing services of public catering in tourism, transport services, financial services and insurance, IT and reservation systems, education and training in tourism, culture and entertainment, publishing companies and publications. The Romanian Tourism Fair it is also an international exhibition and it addresses to international specialists in tourism and the general public.
Antique Market
March 31 –April 3, Romexpo
A market of art objects and antiques. Its first edition will be held in the Exhibition Complex Romexpo between March 31 and April 3, 2011. The purpose is to offer the possibility for artists and art lovers to meet during all this period. Thus, the Antique Market will host, for display and estimation pieces of furniture and interior decorations, pieces of fine arts, personal objects and collection items, silver and china, old jewelry, toys, antique vehicles and many others. The market for antiques in Romania witnesses an expected growth. As the real estate market is collapsing, the investment in antique valuable objects is considered as an opportunity, offering great profits if correctly estimated. Moreover, as almost 5% of the Romanians own collections of valuable objects from various periods - from stamps and pic-
ture post cards to patrimony pictures - apart from important investors, experienced people are also interested.
Nicu Alifantis & ZAN Chanson pour mon amour?
March 7, 19:30, Cinema Patria
In 1995, when he invited the four musicians, Virgil Popescu, Razvan Mirica, Sorin Voinea and Relu Bitulescu (ZAN group), to record for the album “Voyage”, he never thought that have been born a friendship
bia and French-Andalusian SwingManouche) and new acquisitions in their repertoire (songs collected in Greece, Bulgaria, Macedonia), interpreted and masterfully orchestrated by Lavinia Raducanu & Rromak will announce the arrival of spring, unlocking positive energies.
Stefan Banica - I Love You, Woman! Unplugged Concert
March 7 & 8, 19:30, Globus Circus & Variete Hall
Stefan Banica celebrates the woman on March 7 & 8, in two special concerts “I love you, woman!” Stefan Banica chose this year a unique way to celebrate women with two extraordinary unplugged concerts at Globus Circus & Variete Hall. “I love you, woman!” is dedicated especially to the ladies, and the artist will sing the most beautiful love songs that he released during his career. Stefan Banica spring shows may cre-
in unplugged version, which includes an acoustic sound with cold instruments, voices and violins, giving sensitivity and authenticity to the songs. Spectators will feel so the unique atmosphere created by the magic of beautiful love songs of the artist.
Army in Concert
March 10, 19:00, Radio Hall
“Army in Concert” is back on March 10 at the Radio Hall! Army in Concert was a success since its beginnings, and the concert series has gained a tradition and faithful audience. The concert is part of the concert season of Army Representative Orchestra
under the well-known name of “Army In Concert! Organizers continue to surprise, making every show a remarkable and special celebration to give real value to the celebration of 180 years of Military Bands. March 10 concert has a German conductor, Toni Scholl, military, teacher and conductor. He also works as guest conductor with many famous orchestras like the Leipzig Radio Orchestra, Orchestra of the Czech Police. Also from Germany, invited especially for this concert, Elina Anna Reimers, with her violin.
that lasted 15 years. However, the surprises of life are numerous and especially unexpected. This whole period was great for the folk singer Niklas Alifantis. This concert is dedicated to women.
Budapest - Gypsy Symphony Orchestra
March 31, 20:00, Sala Palatului
Spring Unbraiding - Lavinia Raducanu & Rromak Taraf
Bucharesters are invited to the concert of the biggest Symphonic gypsy folk band in the world. The show “100 violins”presented by the Budapest Gypsy Symphony Orchestra returns to Romania. Dressed in traditional costumes, singing live orchestra currently includes clarinet and dulcimer. Until its establishment in 1985, nobody, never, never seen anything like this.
March 26, 21:00, Club Peasant
The Peasant’s Club meeting is set Lavinia new Raducanu & Taraf Rromak with their fan club in Bucharest. For at least 90 minutes, the repertoire that made them so famous (classic gypsy from Russia and Ser-
ate a tradition, as become his extraordinary performances for Christmas, which at the end of this year, will mark their 10th anniversary. Those who will participate in performances on March 7 & 8, will get two special evenings. Stefan Banica will perform his hits www.bucurestiwww.ro
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The beginning is already a legend. Starting point was Járóka Sandor’s funeral, a great musician and orchestra leader. His death brought together the community of musicians who came up with their instruments to say goodbye to their spiritual leader. The sadness of that moment has born this fabulous orchestra which, over time, was on the biggest stages in the world, and at the most prestigious festivals. The program is designed in two parts. The first part is devoted to the traditional music, among which we find, “As a Szep”, and “Hungarian Dances” by Johannes Brahms. The second, in tuxedo, belongs to the classical repertoire, with Franz Lizst, or Johann Strauss, father and son.
International Tourism Fair “Holiday Market”
March 17 - 20, Parliament Palace
Between 17 to 20 March 2011, the International Conference Center of the Parliament Palace will held the second edition of the International Tourism Fair “Holiday Market”, organized by the National Association of Travel Agencies in Romania (ANAT ). The success of the first edition in spring 2010, the International Tourism Fair
“Holiday Market” is able to confirm the events already recognized standards and establish a benchmark as well as for other regional fairs NATA, the Cluj, Constanta and Timisoara. Significant number of exhibiting companies (both Romanian and from abroad) participating in the 2010 editions of the Winter Holiday Fairs and Holiday Market, those more than 30,000 visitors to the fairs in 2010, approximately 3,000 sqm area - are just some of arguments that have supported and will continue to support the importance of this event for Romanian tourism. The second edition of International Tourism Fair “Holiday Market” opens doors to various exhibitors, from travel agents, hoteliers and airline partners, associations and regional tourism development offices in various countries and international partners local authorities. During the International Tourism Fair “Holiday Market” will be awarded prizes for visitors, consisting of tourism packages in Romania and abroad, participation to the raffle is given by the entry ticket. In addition, on the fair time, visitors will enjoy special offers for summer holidays, both at home and abroad, specially designed programs of member agencies and exhibitors NATA partners. The whole tourism industry and the public need a tourism fair organized by professionals, to international standards. In addition, Parliament House is a distinguished location which allowed us to organize a successful event!
St Patrick’s Day cu Coras Even if we do not parade through the city, during St. Patrick’s Day in Bucharest
GEORGE ENESCU PHILHARMONIC 1-3, Franklin St., Ph.: 021-315-0024, www.fge.org.ro All concerts begin at 19.00 hours and are held at the Ro manian Athenaeum Concert Hall.
March 1, 19:00, Little Hall Tuesday night events - Program: Brahms, Janacek, Stravinski Mihai Marica – violoncello, Angela Marica – piano
March 3/4, 19:00 Mozart – The overture of the opera „Figaro’s Wedding,” Chopin - Concerto for piano and orchestra No. 2, De Falla – The three-corn The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: David Gimenez Carreras, Soloist: Jerzy Sterczynsky
March 8, 19:00, Little Hall Tuesday night events - Program: Corelli, Mozart, Kreisler, Poulenc, Kapustin, Paganini, Wieniawski, Bazzini Maria Marica – violin, Angela Marica – piano
March 10/11, 19:00 Dvorak - Stabat Mater The Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Con-
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ductor: Florentin Mihaescu, Choir Conductor: Iosif Ion Prunner, Soloists: Irina Iordachescu, Sidonia Nica, Ruben Muresan, Marius Manyov The Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic celebrates 60 years of activity.
March 15, 19:00, Little Hall Tuesday night events - Program: Schumann, Chopin, Rahmaninov Madalina Pasol – piano
March 17/18, 19:00 Foca Rodi – Sound of Ending Century, Bruch - Concerto no. 3 for violin and orchestra, Ceaikovski – Symphony no. 4, the Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Horia Andreescu, Choir Conductor: Iosif Ion Prunner, Soloist: Liviu Prunariu The Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic celebrates 60 years of activity.
March 22, 19:00, Little Hall
Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Camil Marinescu, Choir conductor: Iosif Ion Prunner, Soloist: Carolin Masur The Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic celebrates 60 years of activity.
Sunday, March 6, 11:00 PUSS
Wednesday, March 23, 19:00
IN BOOTS
THE CORSAIR
Sunday, March 6, 19:00
Thursday, March 24, 19:00
TANGO.RADIO AND JULIET
MADAMA BUTTERFLY
Wednesday, March 9, 19:00
Friday, March 25, 19:00 I DUE
AMADEUS
FOSCARI
March 29, 19:00, Little Hall
Thursday, March 10, 19:00
Saturday, March 26, 19:00
Tuesday night events - Program: Beethoven, Schumann, Debussy Ioana Delioran – piano
BAIADERA
BALANCHINE EVENING
Friday, March 11, 18:30 COSI
Sunday, March 27, 11:00 A
FAN TUTTE
MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
March 31, 19:00
Saturday, March 12, 11:00
Sunday, March 27, 16:00 IN-
Guillaumme Connesson - Aleph (p.a.), Lalo – Spanish Symphony, Florent Schmidt – The Tragedy of Salomeea The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Alain Paris, Soloist: Mihaela Martin
PETRICA AND THE WOLF
TERNATIONAL CANTO CONTEST „ LIRICAL ART MASTERS” Third stage. Director - Victor Dumanescu Sunday, March 27, 19:00 INTERNATIONAL CANTO CONTEST „ LIRICAL ART MASTERS” THE GALA. Director - Victor Dumanescu
BUCHAREST NATIONAL OPERA 70 72, M. Kogalniceanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-313-1857; www.operanb.ro
Wednesday, March 2, 19:00
Tuesday night events - Program: Paganini, Kreisler, Sarasate, Waxman Simina Croitoru – violin, piano: Clementina Ciucu
ALICE IN LIES COUNTRY
March 24/25, 19:00
FLYING DUTCHMAN
Mahler – Symphony no. 3 (Mahler year) The Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George
Bucuresti what, where, when
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pubs offer each year beer and Irish music. This year is taking place a tour-event in Romania. Mini-tournament will include five shows - three in Bucharest on March 16, 17 and 18, one in Sibiu on March 19, and one in Cluj, on March 20. The event is organized on the occasion of St. Patrick’s Day by the Irish Embassy in Romania, which according to tradition is inviting for St. Patrick’s Day a band of traditionalists musicians from Ireland. Thbis year it is a young band called Coras. The singers will perform with 2-3 Romanian dancers specialized in Irish dance and the opening band will be a Celtic medieval Romanian one, Ad Hoc.
Thursday, March 3, 19:00 GISELLE
Friday, March 4, 19:00 THE Saturday, March 5, 11:00 SEA GIRL
Saturday, March 5, 19:00 LA BOHEME
Saturday, March 12, 19:00 RIGOLETTO
Sunday, March 13, 11:00 SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS
Sunday, March 13, 19:00 TURANDOT
Wednesday, March 16, 19:00 RITA – Premiere, Opera rara
Thursday, March 17, 18:30
Wednesday, March 30, 19:00 RITA
Thursday, March 31, 19:00 GISELLE
ANNA KARENINA
Thursday, March 17, 20:00 LA TRAGEDIE DE CARMEN
Friday, March 18, 18:30 LE NOZZE DI FIGARO
Saturday, March 19, 11:00 THE SNOW QUEEN
Saturday, March 19, 19:00 MANON LESCAUT
Sunday, March 20, 11:00 HANSEL AND GRETEL
Sunday, March 20, 19:00 TANGO.RADIO AND JULIET
National Opera performances begin at 19:00, starting March 1, and only longer perform ances to which the end would exceed 22:00, will remain scheduled at 18:30. Opera management’s decision came at the request of many specta tors who have requested a change in start time of per formances to be reached in time at the Opera.
real estate
Chinese “Rabbit” New Year Fireworks The Chinese people have celebrated the turn of the year, to the Rabbit Year, on the night of 2-3 February. The ones from Bucharest have done it in the preceding weekend, at least at the official level. Mayor Sorin Oprescu with China’s ambassador to Bucharest, Liu Zengwen, have marked the celebration of the Chinese New Year in Herastrau Park. Sorin Oprescu adresed to the Chinese living in Romania the traditional greeting “Xian Nien hao.” Bucharest had in 2010 the most active year of cultural exchanges with China, after signing the twinning agreement with Beijing in 2005. Ambassador Liu Zengwen said: “Celebrating Chinese New Year has an important place in traditional Chinese culture and is part of the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of our nation. In 2011, the Year of the Rabbit after the traditional Chinese calendar, we share with many Romanian friends joy, happiness and fulfillment. On this occasion, I want to thank all Romanian friends who pays attention to development of Chinese-Romanian relations and efforts to this end. “ The event was attended by diplomats accredited in Bucharest, politicians and Chinese and Romanian businessmen. The entertainment included Chinese songs and dances, but also Corina Chiriac recital, a folk program of “Musicians from Chisinau,” conducted by Maestro Nicolae Botgros, a concert by Gheorghe Turda, and also the children’s choir “Allegretto.” It ended, as needed, with fireworks!
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cover story
The Newest Monuments of the City On May 10, 1939, in the Palace Square in Bucharest, Carol II uncovered the equestrian statue of Carol I, his uncle and predecessor on the throne of Romania. The statue, majestic, magnificent, a harmony of robust shapes, was the work of the famous sculptor Mestrovic from Belgrade, who adorned the capital of Romania with many works of art. The monument, made of bronze, stood there until 1948, when it was destroyed by the Communists. Sorana Man •
At the beginning of December 2010, on the old site in front of the Central University Library in the Revolution Square, the municipality unveiled a bronze equestrian statue of Carol I on a granite pedestal, a fine artwork of the sculptor Florin Codre, completed in 2010. The space where the monument is located, between the University Library and the Royal Palace, has not suffered significant changes compared to the period when the statue destroyed in 1948 was placed here. Mayor Sorin Oprescu attended the ceremony dedicated to the relocation of the statue of Carol I in the Royal Palace Square. Together with Oprescu , the event organized by the Bucharest City Hall was also attended by the academicians Razvan Theodorescu and Constantin Balaceanu-Stolnici, former presidents of Romania, Ion Iliescu and Emil Constantinescu, former Prime Minister Calin Popescu Tariceanu, and Their Royal Highnesses Prince and Princess Margaret and Radu. On this occasion, the Mayor gave the following statement: „Welcome, Your Majesty! In fact, you have never left our mind and soul! In the sad and often tumultuous history of this nation, you have always been and remain a landmark of remarkable leadership, wise, moral and visionary. Your strength and your intelligence paved the way for the development of the modern Romanian state, for the consecra-
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tion of the sovereignty, independence and freedom of our nation. The great economic, social and administrative progress, the country’s new Constitution and everything you did, Your Majesty, your long reign has brought national dignity and international prestige to Romania. Dear Bucharesters, in our honest and resolute endeavor to recover the values of our nation, today, as a sign of gratitude to the great political figure of modern Romania, we give back to the city the statue of Carol I in the design of the exceptional sculptor, Florin Codre. I believe that we are doing an act of justice and honor.” In 2006 we celebrated 140 years of Prince Carol of Hohenzollern’s accession to the throne of Romania and 125 years after the proclamation of the Kingdom of Romania, events of paramount importance for the modern renaissance of our nation. The Romanian President declared 2006 as “Year Carol I”, which was a form of gratitude for the most complex political personality of modern Romania. Carol was born in Sigmaringen, on April 7/20, 1939, being the second son of Prince Carol Anton of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen and his wife, Josefina. In 1866, after Count Philip of Flanders had refused the throne of the United Principalities, Ion Bratianu left for Germany to bring Prince Carol to the country. On May 10, 1866, Carol arrived in Bucharest, Romania’s capital, greeted by enthusiastic crowds. This moment was the birth of the dynasty and at the same time the beginning of a period of profound changes in Romanian society. Romania still had at that time the status of a country under Turkish suzerainty. Prince Carol received the title of Ruler and took the oath before the parliamentary assembly. The first years of his reign were not easy for Carol. The Prince adapted quite hardly to the United Principalities’ hectic political life, and
role. Romania’s status as an independent European country made it necessary to change the status of the Principality. Thus, in 1881, he was awarded the title of King and Romania became a Kingdom. Those 48 years of Carol’s reign led to major changes in the life of the Romanian state. The king was an extremely strict and disciplined man, with an impeccable character. Romania went through a period of marked development in both the economic and social fields as well as in the cultural one.
ION LUCA CARAGIALE HOMAGE Mayor Sorin Oprescu, and Ankara’s Mayor, Melih Gokcek, who was on official visit to Bucharest, attended at mid-December 2010, the unveiling of another monumental ensemble of the city, „Caragialiana – The Wagon with Zanies” placed before The „Ion Luca Caragiale” National Theater. On this occasion, the mayor declared that this was, in 1870, on the verge of abdication. It didn’t take too long to Carol to make himself remarked, while leading Romanian-Russian armies during the War for Independence. The Proclamation of Independence of Romania on May 10, 1877, was a crucial moment in the development of the modern Romanian state, in which Carol played a key www.bucurestiwww.ro
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moment signifies one more step in our attempt to retrieve, recognize and honor the true values of the Romanian culture. Only through such an attitude – of respect and deference to the authentic wealth of the Romanian spirit, we can revive our national pride, we can respect each other more but also be respected more by others. Master Ion Luca Caragiale, in his brilliance, made us a fine analysis and gave us a correct diagnosis. He showed us exactly the way we are, with good and bad. It is obvious, although perhaps painful, how realistic and contemporary Caragiale and his drama characters are. His sparkling sarcasm, his sharp wit and irony dissected with the greatest finesse the Romanian society. His literary verve and the art of his language have placed the Great Caragiale not only in our souls and minds but also in universality. But however valuable and out-
standing his work was, it wouldn’t have been as well known as it is if there weren’t for those wonderful folks who gave life to his characters, namely the Romanian theater people – actors, directors, set designers and many others. A warm and respectful homage was brought to all those who have toiled over the years to make Caragiale and his work better known and to bring him closer to us. The event was attended by, among other personalities, Mircea Diaconu, Razvan Teodorescu and Dinu Sararu. The ensemble, made by sculptor Ioan Bolborea, is an allegorical chariot, a symbol of the theater, and represents, in a stylized manner, 16 characters of Caragiale’s work, namely Mita, Veta, Zita, Farfuridi, Branzovenescu, The Tipsy Citizen, Goe, Zoe, Grandma, Chiriac, Rica Venturiano, Mamita, Trahanache, Catavencu and Pristanda. On one side of the ensemble is placed the statue of the great playwright Ion Luca Caragiale.
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Balancing Between American and Romanian Banking • Interview with Daniel K. Roberts, Chairman of the Romanian Inter national Bank and of the Merchants Bank of Califor nia Gabriel Arsene •
Starting with May 2002, Romanian International Bank, a bank domiciled in Romania, has been taken over by Daniel Kendrick Roberts and Florina. K. Roberts, who are holding about 90% of the Romanian International Bank stocks. In 2003 Romanian International Bank has invested over 2 millions USD in equipment updating and the branch-network expansion. Since 1996 Daniel K. Roberts owns also a 93% of the total shares of the American bank Merchants Bank of California, in the city of Carson. Merchants Bank of California is recognized as one of the major providers of services to the checkcashing industry. Please, for our readers, tell us your story… how did you arrive in Romania and how have you involved in the Romanian Inter national Bank?
I’ve been coming to Romania since 1982. I’m a lawyer by background and a banker. Many, many years ago I had a great dear friend, a Romanian engineer, one of the many Romanian wonderful engineers, and I came to visit him, to Cluj, in 1982. So, there are almost 29 years now. I own a bank in United States, called Merchants Bank of California and with my ex-wife, Florina, a Romanian, we purchased Romanian International Bank from the Turks owners, in… 2002. We started negotiating with the Turks in 2001 and the transaction concluded in 2002. Since then we’ve been here the majority owners of the bank. When you invested in a bank, you knew the banking industry in Romania?
Yes, we were very familiar with all the banks that did open since1990, we were familiar with Dacia Felix, with Bankcoop, with Credit Bank and Albina Bank… yes, we’ve seen all the problems of the banking sector. And you came with your American knowl edge, American knowhow…
American knowhow and American money! Yes, of course… since the bank had some problems…
Oh, with the Turkish ownership. The
Yes, we are a very strong bank. It’s a special purpose bank, we only have one branch, we have 100 employees and we service certain specialized, very specialized industry. We’re in an excellent financial shape, excellent! You passed the crisis…
We’ve passed the crisis in America, we’ll see in Romania. At least, we didn’t see great problems in the banking system in Romania…
I’m positive. You have a very serious National Bank, a very capable Governor of the National Bank and a strong supervision. I have very positive expectations about Romanian banking system.
bank had four branches, now we have 34 in Romania, 15 in Bucharest and 19 around the country. The bank, before we bought it, have been known as Turkish Bank or Sumerbank, which have been taken over by the Turkish state during the Turkish banking crisis, and according to the international agreements, they had to close all the Turkish banks and to sell all the subsidiaries. 13 banks with maybe 50 subsidiaries, but not only banks, insurance companies, brokerage houses… in Moscow, in Kazakhstan, Romania, Bulgaria… and here was one of them. Now you have 34 branches! Are you still expanding?
For now we are staying, until we get through the crisis we’re staying at 34 branches. How is your life between Romania and United States? How much time you spend in Romania and in USA?
I’m travelling, maybe more than I’d like right now. I just get back late last night in Romania. I’m coming to Romania 5 or 6 times per year. I’ve been here since December, even if I travelled through Europe, Middle East, and I’ll stay here for the next month or so… With this crisis which first came in America, then in Europe, I’ve travelled very much. It keeps me very busy. I’ve read some reviews about your bank in America, Merchants Bank of California, and I found only good reviews, like the ABA Banking Journal, which sais that for 5 years Merchants Bank of California, had the highest Return on Assets for all 4,984 banks in the United States under $100 mil lion in assets…
Since you are coming for so many years in Romania, you’ve been not only a specta tor, but a participant… How do you see the achievements in this many years?
You can see a very remarkable progress Romania has made since 1990. I know that many people complain but the reality is that Romania has made great progress. We’re sitting in a Starbucks, in a mall, in a very classic Starbucks… Romania open its doors to the West, joining European Union, joining NATO, it took many steps, but there are more steps to take. But how do you find Bucharest?
Well, I like Bucharest. Bucharest is one of my favorite cities, it’s a very cosmopolitan city, people are interesting, and they are very friendly, very social… you see all those clubs and terraces in the summer, you see an old city and a new one… I have a very positive opinion about Bucharest. It’s true that between the Second World War and 1990 the old buildings, the old houses weren’t kept up. I’m sure it would be like Paris is today. That’s a great tragedy, but we see how this thing progress. And a final question. What about your in volvement in the Miss Universe Romania beauty contest? Do you like the Romanian women?
I was a jurist last year for Miss Universe Romania. It’s an excellent program. They young ladies were all very professional and accomplished. I was really impressed. The executive director is Michael Costache, who did a truly exceptional job. Of course I like Romanian woman. They are the most beautiful women in the world!
Thank you very much!
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travel
Traveler in Medias and Marginimea Sibiului Arriving in Medias, the second largest and important city in the county, located 60 km from Sibiu, we hastened to visit during daytime the most important monuments of the city. The city on the Great Tarnava river retains today, after eight hundred years of existence, the savor and the tempting flavor of the medieval burg which waits you to discover it: different architectural constructions, enigmatic architectural ornaments, legends and stories which reveal a mysterious past, and the symbol of the magical light, all these transforming the medieval burg in a real “City of the Light.” In Medias the light brings back the history and mystery, inspiring the cultural and tourist brand of the city. Wherever we walk in the central area, we discover outstanding architectural monuments, churches, towers, defensive walls, memorials or museums. Medias City Museum is located in a building of a former Franciscan convent, dating from fifteenth century, and has three sections: history, ethnography-arts, science. The oldest collections date from the first half of the nineteenth century, representing the “Mediascher Altmuseum”, which functioned besides the local Evangelist Gymnasium. Since 1950 the institution operates under the name “Medias Museum” and deserves to pass its threshold.
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Bucuresti what, where, when
I found many really interesting places in my trip through Sibiu County. A part of them I presented in our last issue and, as I promised I come back with the next places from this land of mirages: Medias, Ocna Sibiului, Marginime villages and Saliste.
In 1477 an important step was taken to support the defense capacity of Medias, with an offer to reduce the paying taxes and exemptions from military duties, by limiting the participation of people to the royal army to only 32 people. Thus, fortification is done first, when the entire settlement was surrounded by earth walls reinforced by wooden palisades, doubled by ditches of water. The current site of the fortified city, built of bricks and stone, was erected on the orders of the Hungarian king Matthias Corvinus, at 1486, who imposed to all citizens to participate in the work, regardless of their social position. The most important buildings inside the city are: Schuller House, the most famous home from Medias, attested in 1588, as the house of Mayor Hannes Schuller. Repairs were made subsequent in a Transylvanian Renaissance manner, which made its mark on the style of the building. Rosenauer House, Schuster Dutz House (a famous poet), the Piarists School, located next door, an imposing building from around 1740, also known as the Guggenberger House. After 1721 the Piarists religious order, profiled on the spread of secular and religious education, used the whole building for this purpose. Since 1790, the building is private property. From the many tourist attractions, I reveal you a less known museum but very interesting and of great significance not only for Medias history but also for Romania’s. Hermann Oberth Museum was inaugurated
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in 1994 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of great scientist Hermann Oberth, a pioneer of rocket technology and interplanetary flights. Museum exhibition is divided into three modules dedicated to Conrad Haas, inventor of the first stage propellant rocket, Hermann Oberth, the father of space flight and Dumitru Dorin Prunariu, the first Romanian cosmonaut. “Civitas Mediensis” has preserved its history through 17 towers and bastions, over seven feet tall walls, centuries old, three main and four side gates to access the old city. Fortified Church Saint Margaret has a valuable set of Gothic mural paintings, and in the tower is a watch that shows the moon phases. This church is also important because here was imprisoned the Romanian ruler Vlad Tepes (well-known as Dracula), in 1476, after a conflict with the Hungarian king Matthias Corvinus. In fact the city appears in the pages of the novel “Dracula”, the Irishman Bram Stoker noting that at the Wallach’s Count wedding the wine was “the golden from Medias,” the real probably an old Tarnave wine. Here the Transylvanian prince Stephen Bathory was elected King of Poland. I concluded that the historic center of Medias is like an open air museum. The afternoon spent in one of the most romantic cities of Romania, have been followed by an evening in one of the most beautiful hotels in the county - Binder Bubi, and the meeting with the mayor, who joined us for dinner.
an old acquaintance, Andreea Idriceanu, a true PR goddess for Gura Raului, also in love with these places and with the local people.
Tracing Ceausescu Jr. Saliste Mayor, Banciu Dumitru, a prominent man inviting all Romanians to reach the area, area multi-awarded and appreciated by all tourists, he is also using the modern promotion and reminds us that in the area, the hunting lodge of Nicu Ceausescu (Ceausescu Jr.) is open for tourists after 21 years, offering three bedrooms and a living-room for a modest price per night.
Successful Model for Health Tourism Driving to Ocna Sibiu Spa resort is now much easier through the new Sibiu bypass. The mayor presented us the tourist resort as a model of success in terms of tourism in Romania. Ocna Sibiu was documented in 1263, as the Tera-Wyz, and is located 15 km from Sibiu. The salt is found here in abundance right at the soil surface and groundwater is shallow, about 6 m. The salt has been exploited in the area three thousand years BC, the prehistoric man harvested salt from the surface, but the salt hill from Ocna Sibiu, spans 78 hectares, the old mines are going
to a depth of 600 m. The best known of the local lakes are Lake Avram Iancu (Wilderness Ocna), which was formed on a former mine, abandoned in 1817, with a depth of over 130 meters and a great salinity. Brancoveanu Lake has the highest salt concentration and its depth is not known yet! It was formed on an abandoned salt mine, discarded in 1699. In summer the resort is assaulted by thousands of tourists coming for baths in the helio-thermal lakes, which is the main reason the city is constantly growing. The Spa Complex Ocna Sibiu is now fully restored, following an intensive process of restoring closely following the original architectural line of the Viennese architects. The complex consists of two hotels and a
treatment base. Restaurant complex located in an historic building but with the most modern equipment, combines classical Romanian cuisine with exotic and international one.
Gura Raului (River Origin) Heaven Origin On my way to Saliste, the unofficial capital of Marginimea Sibiului, a stop in the Gura Raului village is absolutely necessary. The village is situated 18 km from Sibiu, 15 km from Saliste and 22 km from Ocna Sibiu. It is the main entrance gate to Cibin Mountains, to the Great River and Small River, and to Iezerele Cindrelului streams. On the streets where the locals would greet you as an old acquaintance, once roamed our national writers George Toparceanu, George Cosbuc (apparently some of his poems were written here), Mihai Eminescu, Lucian Blaga and many other great cultural figures, “caught� by the magic place. It is now one of the areas with high tourism and ethnography potential. Our meeting with the Mayor has been hosted by Sanziana mansion, a place of our dreams, where we were greeted also by the Junii from the village, true knights of the local and national traditions. I also met
Who accommodates in Saliste, in the place that Nicu Ceausescu was using before 1989 (the legend says he was accompanied by his girlfriends, even Nadia Comaneci), can bathe in the outdoor pool, play tennis, soccer or volleyball on a lightened ground, or may fish in the lake from the middle of the apple orchard. People from Saliste wait also the hunters, Saliste and all the Marginimea Sibiului being known for the hunting areas with bears, foxes, grouse and deer. Like the famous character, you would arrive in the middle of a quiet area with wonderful scenery, like an oasis in the wild. Many other mansions from the area, with a large range of comfort conditions and prices are waiting for tourists, for a weekend or for a longer stay. www.bucurestiwww.ro
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Craftsmen from Maramures Give Life to Wood At a crucial moment, when winter begins to face the sun of spring, when frost should weaken the grip and give way to rebirth of nature, I chose to reveal the wood elegance and the craftsmanship of Maramures. In a landscape dominated by concrete and cement, wood bring back a bit of the natureʼs force, while elevating the level of comfort and aesthetics to a different standard. Luciana Petrescu •
“Wood is alive. It asks you for patience and grace. You must pay attention to detail so you may evidence its various forms and textures. One mistake and the work suffers significant damage, difficult to correct. Our long experience has taught us to respect not only the client but also the raw material. A wooden house, a staircase, a porch or wooden furniture are made with passion and respect, not only offering customers a quality product, but the comfort and elegance that they want. We are craftsmen from Maramures, which means that to a product adapted to the modernity, we bring it added value through the harmonization of the trends with the Romanian traditions, often ignored or made secondary. Today there are still craftsmen who work on the same principles passed on from father to son for centuries, cleaned by the filter of history,” said Gavrila Buftea, company manager of Mesterii Maramureseni. We all have the passion for modernism, but we can escape to the mountains or in a hilly region, in a house of logs or solid wood, that may become our protective space. “A house of wood, even solid, allow to get closer to customer’s personality. First,
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the deadline for completion of construction is much shorter, even for large works such as wooden churches, where the structural complexity harmoniously mix with the aesthetic of the decoration generating slender and balanced silhouettes, in which every detail is handled with responsibility to work as a whole. The master focus on the primary materials, wood and stone, with respect and devotion and, knowing their secrets, reveal from their heart ancient symbols,” said Buftea. I wonder... what is more exclusive? A hi-tech house in the middle of the metropolitan chaos or a dream home in a completely natural landscape? A purely subjective opinion, I go for the latter, as a wooden building does not mean you should deprive yourself of the most modern gadgets and facilities. Contrast that wood makes with textures used in the field of interior design and of surround systems, plasma TVs, laptops, lighting remote controled, comes as a statement of the force of the Romanian creativity, skill and craftsmanship. “Most potential customers are not familiar with the benefits brought by a wooden building. There are still incarcerated in myths
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about safety, endurance and quality. The truth is completely different. A wooden house, built to international standards, offering mainly a healthy living environment. Wood is a warm and soft row, the house reacting in a uniform manner, as a body - to humidity and vibration. In addition, if treated properly and put into operation very well, it is able to withstand temperature fluctuations also creating a stable environment for generations,” said the representative of Mesterii Maramureseni. One of the greatest gifts of man is the ability to dream. If the architecture and construction allows you an infinity of variations, the real world is limited in capacity and financing costs. The costs of houses may vary depending on: the complexity of the project, the amount of materials needed and their preciosity. Ultimately wood technology is one of the most economic, price per built square foot can start at 250 Euro. Moreover, wood placed in work - in its natural form – does not necessarily require other finishes. “We count on the naturalness of this material which we do not want to hide under layers of other materials,” concluded Gavrila Buftea. Care, imagination, professionalism, magic traditions, but also exclusivity meet in wooden buildings. If we think of houses, pavilions housing a boat, gates, terraces, furniture, decorations, wood brings a bit of story in everyday life.
ESSENTIAL INFO • HOTELS • MUSEUMS • SHOW BIZ CULTURAL INSTITUTES • CITY MAP Rely on these pages for guidance on where to go and what to do during your visit. All telephone numbers are in area code 021, unless noted, and the letter/number combinations at the end of listings are coordinates for the map (page 22). For subway map see also page 22.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
VISAS
Police - Like all cities, Bucharest too has dangerous
EU and American citizens with a valid passport can visit for 90 days with no visa requirement. All other visitors will need a visa. Visas should be obtained prior to the arrival, from Romanian Diplomatic Missions’Offices in your country. A list of the nations for which a Romanian visa is required can be found at www.mae.ro. Three day transit visa: US$ 15/25. One entry visa: US$ 25, multiple entry visa US$ 60. For a few exceptional situations a 10-day special visa can be obtained at customs, entering Romania. For visa extensions and other information go to the passport office at 29, Nicolae Iorga St., near Piata Romana.
spots; however, it is considered a safe city in European terms. The city center is usually safe, but at night be careful in parks and peripheral areas. Emergency Police number: 955;
General Emergency number: 112 for Police, Ambulance & Fire Department Health Services - Dial 9611 for the ambulance public non-stop service. There are also private ambulance services: dial for Puls 9737 or 021-243-1333, for Doris 978 or 021-335-5065, for SOS Medical and Ambulance Services 9761 or 0722-333-000, for Village Medical Clinic Ambulance 0723-343-219.
TELEPHONES
PRIVATE CLINICS & EMERGENCY HOSPITALS
The payphones in the city are phone card operated. When calling into Romania, you need to dial the international access code (00), country’s code (40), the city code (without the initial 0 - 021 for Bucharest), then the subscriber’s number. When dialling a mobile number from abroad, the initial 0 is also dropped. Romanian city codes (selected): Brasov (0268), Constanta (0241), Bucharest (021), Cluj (0264), Sibiu (0269), Sinaia (0244), Timisoara (0256). International country codes (selected): Australia (61), Austria (43), Belgium (32), Canada/US (1), Danmark (45), France (33), Germany (49), Greece (30), Hungary (36), Irealand (353), Israel (972), Italy (39), Japan (81), Moldova (373), Netherlands (31), Poland (48), Romania (40), Russia (7), Spain (34),
Ph. 021-327-1188 ; • 2, Staicovici St, Opera Center. Ph 021-412-0110 • 12, G Enescu St, Ph. 021-316-5876/77/78
TRANSLATORS
NON-STOP PHARMACIES
Translingua: 306, Calea Mosilor, Bl. 56A, Ap. 11 Ph.: 021-211-70-46, 0722-250-908; Fax: 021-211-70-46. www.translingua.ro Prosper - ASE Language Centre: 2, Calea Grivitei St., 2nd floor, room 4211; Ph./Fax: 021-211-78-00. www.prosper.ro Talk Partners: Ph.: 0771-540-479; 0724-353-215; www.talkpartners.ro. www.diamondo.ro Central European Translation: 19, Unirii Blvd., Bl. 4B, 1st Entr., 4th floor, Ap.13; Ph.: 021-336-28-25; Fax: 021-336-27-24. www.cet.ro Serious Business: 3, Corneliu Coposu Blvd.Bl. 101, 1st floor, Apt. 17. Ph.: 021-321-46-41; Fax: 021-320-33-13. www.serious.ro The Central Post Office is at 10, Matei Millo St. (near the Phone Company building on Calea Victoriei). www.posta-romana.ro Open: 7:30-20:00. Closed Sunday.
MONEY Money can be exchanged at banks, hotels and private offices (Casa de schimb valutar). There can be major differences in rates, especially between the banks and the private exchange offices. Changing money in the street is illegal and inadvisable. Bank notes are in the following denominations: LEI 1,00; 5,00; 10,00; 50,00; 100,00 and 500;00. Coins: Bani 1; 5; 10; 50. Banks are open weekdays from 8:30 to noon and from 14:00 to 16:00. Bucuresti what, where, when
Emergency Clinic Hospital: 8, Calea Floreasca, Ph. 021-317-0171; 021-317-0121 Medico Clinique: 9, Visarion St., Ph. 021-650-7060, 021-315-5426 /27 www.medico.ro Medicover Medical: Centre96, Calea Plevnei, Ph. 021-310-4410 Ophthalmology Emergency Clinic Hospital: 1, Piata Lahovari, Ph. 021-319-2753
Unirea Medical Center: • 57, Unirii Blvd,
There is no problem with finding a pharmacy in your neighborhood, no matter where you are in Bucharest. Here are some pharmacies with nonstop service: Farmacia Verde: 15, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph. 021-230-1451 Sensiblu: 65, Calea Dorobantlor, Ph. 021-211-1127, Farmadex: 19, N Titulescu Blvd, Ph. 0744-650-078 MedFARM: 34, I.C. Bratianu Blvd, Ph. 021-315-2309
DENTISTS Alpha Dent Company: 300, Calea Calarasilor St., Ph. 021-321-3099
POST OFFICES
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Biomedica International: 42 Eminescu St., Ph. 021-230-8001
Dent Elysee: 51, J.L. Calderon St., Ph. 021-312-3300; 0723-380-498 Dent Estet: 15, Aviatorilor Blvd. Ph. 021-222-1108 7, G. Alexandrescu St, Ph. 0723-602-020
HEALTH CLUBS & SPA BUCHAREST FitClub: With customized fitness routines and body rituals, FitClub invites guests to indulge in a new wellness dimension. For details and advice on customized packages, please call us at 021201 5077. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, 2nd floor, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Bucharest
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Fit & Fun Club: The club is complimentary to all hotel guests and offers the possibility to relax and feel in perfect shape at the same time. You can enjoy the swimming pool & whirlpool, sauna, Jacuzzi, or be active and try the fully equipped gymnasium or the tennis courts. Personal trainer available for a monthly fee. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 08.00 – 23.00. Diplomatilor Club: 1, Minovici Alley. Ph.: 021-222-8497; 0722-328-758. Open: daily 9:00 - 18:00 Eden Spa: 39, Primaverii Blvd., Ph.: 021-316-8148; 0721-321-294. Open: Mon - Fri 9:00 - 21:00 . Sat 9:00 - 18:00 Grand Hotel Continental Spa: The Spa is a calm and peaceful retreat with relaxation facilities including a maxi jacuzzi, massage salons and sauna, providing an extensive range of body beauty and care treatments. Indulge yourself in one of these therapies and renew your energy. You will enjoy fitness and aerobic sessions with guidance from personal trainers available by appointment. You are kindly asked to check the availability of this service with the Reception. C.C. accepted. Location: Basement. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 037-201-0300. Open: Mon.- Sat. – 07:00 –21:00. Hilton Health Club: 1-3, Episcopiei St. Athénée Palace Bucharest Hilton; Ph.: 021-303-3777 ext.6808 Open: Mon-Fri 6:30 - 22:00. Sat-Sun 8:00 - 21:00 InterContinental Health Club: Public access on the 22nd floor. Full range of facilities. Sauna, massage, solarium, fitness centre, hexagonal swimming pool. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4 Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., InterContinental Hotel, Ph.: 021-310-2020, Open:06.00 - 22.00
Magnolia Spa: 20, Sperantei St.
AIRPORTS
Ph.: 021-311-2779; Open: Tue - Fri 12:30 - 20:00 Sat: 10:30 - 18:00; Sun - Mon closed “Majestic”Wellness Club: Thoughtfully designed facilities for the benefit and convenience of the Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel guests. The Majestic Wellness Club includes: Swimming Pool, Jacuzzi, Cardio & Fitness Center, Sauna, Massage. Aerobic, Step, Tae-bo, Body-flex; Aqua Gym; Swimming lessons. 38-40, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: (021) 310 27 20; Fax: (021) 310 27 99 Open: daily 07:00 – 21:30.
Henri Coanda International Airport: – for interna-
Novotel Bucarest City Centre Wellness Centre: After a busy day you relax and unwind in the Wellness Centre situated on the mezzanine floor. Indoor swimming pool with artificial waves, fitness centre, gym, massage, hammam and Power Plate are at your disposal. Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 61. Open daily: 06:00 - 22:00. Ramada Plaza Hotel: 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd. Ph.: 021-549-2000; Fax: 021-549-2330; Open: Tue-Sun 10:00 - 22:00 Sports Club 2000: 3-11, Gabriela Szabo St. Tennis, Swimming, Fitness Ph.: 021-434-3572; Kineto & Physiotherapy Ph.: 0723-573-028 Beauty Center Ph.: 021-434-1741 Open: Mon-Sun 08:00 - 22:00 World Class Health Academy: • 90, Calea 13 Septembrie - JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel Ph.: 021-403-0900/01; 0730-848-707 Open: weekdays 6:00 - 23:00, weekends 8:00 - 21:00 • 63-81, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-313-1104 • 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.: 0723-691-544
tional and domestic flights. Ph.: Switchboard: (+4021) 204-1000 Customs: ext.: 1514 ; Lost luggage: ext. 1043 Airport Police: ext.: 1523 Aurel Vlaicu Airport (Baneasa): – for domestic and international flights. Ph.: (+4021) 9371, 021-232-0020 ext.: 131.
Transportation to/from Henri Coanda Airport: RATB: City Bus #783 Connecting Otopeni to the City center. Important stops: Pullman Hotel, Piata Victoriei, Piata Romana, Piata Unirii.
TAXI SERVICES Airport taxis are available at the arrivals hall but they may charge you 3 to 10 times as much as a Bucharest regular taxi. Euro Fly Taxi is the official airport taxi, and they are queued outside Henri Coanda Airrivals terminal. If not, call 9440. The average price from Haenri Coanda Airport to Bucharest: 15 Euros.
CITY TAXI SERVICES You can olso call a city taxi by phoning one of these numbers: 9427, 9439, 9451, 9425, 9435, 9444, 9422. Prices vary from one taxi company to another.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Cornu; Ph./fax: 0244-367-053. Open: 8:00 - 22:00
Relatively safe and efficient, Bucharest’s public transport system covers the entire city with buses, tramways, trolleys and metro (subway) services, operating from 5 a.m. to midnight. Tickets and magnetic cards can be bought at RATB kiosks, located on the main thoroughfares in the city, for ground transportation, and in every Metro station for the underground network. Bus, Tram, Trolleys – LEI 1,30 per ticket, LEI 8,00 for one-day pass, LEI 50,00 for a monthly pass. EXPRESS buses use a magnetic card. Metro – LEI 2,20 for two-fare pass, LEI 8,00 for ten-fare pass, LEI 4,00 for one-day pass, LEI 23,00 - for a monthly passcard.
DRIVING IN ROMANIA
SHOW BIZ
The legal speed limit is 50 km/hr in cities, 90 km/hr outside the city and 120 km/hr on highways. Driving above these limits will result in fines with the possibility of losing your license. Most international driving licenses are accepted in Romania, but check with the rental company to be sure. Some rental car companies also provide the service of hiring a car with a driver. A blood alcohol level of any kind is not tolerated, and talking on a cell phone while driving is also prohibited.
Concerts usually start around 6 pm except for Opera and Musical Comedy matinees which start around 11 am. The Music University of Bucharest presents mostly classic recitals which are usually free of charge. The Opera has an extensive repertoire and enjoys international renown. The Athenaeum hosts concerts featuring the Romanian National and Inter-national Philharmonic Orchestras. The Romanian Radio Society organizes concerts in its two halls starting at 7 pm; Generally, individual tickets for opera shows and classic music concerts range between 5 - 15 RON. In Bucharest, cinemas change program every Friday. Movies are shown in their original language with Romanian subtitles. The majority of cinemas show American movies, but one can also find European movies at the French Institute Cinema or the Cinemateca. The row and set number is indicated on your ticket or separate stub. Ticket prices vary from Lei 5 - 35 RON
PRAHOVA COUNTY Pro Estetica Sana Bali Spa: 349, Stadionului St.,
RENT A CAR Cars can be rented in a variety of places. Several offices are available in the Arrivals Hall at the Otopeni International Airport and most upscale hotels. Major cities in Romania are also covered for both pick-up and collection services. Active Rent a Car: Reservations: Ph.: 0727-644-644 www.active-rentacar.ro Avis: Reservations: Ph.: 021-210-4344, 021-210-4345; Fax: 021-210-6912. www.avis.ro; reservations@avis.ro Bavaria Rent a Car: Reservations: Ph.: 021-201-4534; 0730-333-705. www.bavariarent.ro
Head Office: Ph.: 021-312-9857; 0744-586-724; 0744-638-292. Fax: 021-312-9982. www.compact-rentacar.ro Compact Premium: Head Office: Ph.:021- 312-9857; 0744-586-724; 0744-638-292. Fax: 021-312-9982. www.compact-rentacar.ro
Reservations: Ph.: 021-335-7533; Fax:021-335-7532 reservations@hertz.com.ro; www.hertz.com.ro
OPERA & CONCERTS Atheneul Roman: 6 D 1, Franklin St. Ph.: 021-315-6875; 021-315-2567 National Opera: 7 D 70-72, Mihail Kogalniceanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-6980; 021-311-5254 Sala Radio (Romanian Radio Society):
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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”:
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2, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-313-6348.
George Enescu Philharmonic: 6 D 1-3, Franklin St. Ph: 021-315-0024; Box Office: 021-315-6875
MUSEUMS Bucharest is a city of history and arts. It probably has more museums per capita than any other capital in the world. Below you’ll find a list of selected museums. Usually there is a nominal entrance fee. Multi-lingual guides are typically available on request at no charge. Most museums are closed on Mondays.
National Museum of Art of Romania:
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49-53, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-314 81 19; 021-313 30 30. Visiting hours: Wednesday-Sunday page 16
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niques and utensils (water and windmills, oil presses, etc) from all of the country’s provinces. Folkloric art collections and souvenirs.
Art Collections Museum:
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111, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021- 211.17.49, 021- 212.96.41. Visiting hours: Saturday- Wednesday 11.00 –19.00 (May-September); 10.00 – 18.00 (October-April); Closed: Thursday, Friday, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 25th December. Founded in 1978, the museum houses previously private collections that have been donated to the state in the 11.00 –19.00 (May-September); 10.00 – 18.00 (October-April); Closed: Monday, Tuesday, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 25th December. The National Museum of Art of Romania is housed in the former Royal Palace which is located on Victoriei Avenue, in an area of great architectural and historical value. The European Art Gallery includes painting, sculpture and decorative art. The most important schools of European art are well represented by works of Domenico Veneziano, Lucas Cranach the Elder, El Greco, Pieter Breughel the Younger, Rembrandt, Monet, Sisley, Rodin and other great names. The Gallery offers an overview of the most important artistic movements that marked art history from the early Renaissance till the first decades of the 20th century. The Medieval Romanian Art Gallery displays works from the 14th to the 19th century: frescoes, icons, embroideries, manuscripts, silver and gold objects and sculptures. The Romanian Modern Art Gallery illustrates the development of Romanian fine arts from the first decades of the 19th century till the second half of the 20th century. It includes works of Aman, Grigorescu, Andreescu, Luchian, Tonitza, Pallady, Petrascu, Brâncusi, Paciurea. The Village Museum: 5 C 28-30, Soseaua Kiseleff. Ph.: 021-224-2759. Open daily: Nov.-Apr.: 09:00 – 17:00 May-Oct.: 09:00 - 19:00. One of the most valuable ethnographic museums in the world. A creation of sociologist Dimitrie Gusti in 1936, the outdoor museum covers 30 hectares with over 70 exhibits of houses, 99 auxiliary buildings, churches and traditional tech-
curesti Mall Ph.: 021-327-7020/22 The Light Cinema: 151-171, Progresului Ave., Liberty Center Ph.: 021-369-9740, 021-369-9797 Movieplex Cinema: 26, Timisoara Blvd., Plaza Romania; Ph.: 021-407-8300 NCRR: 3, Kiseleff Ave., the National Museum of Romanian Peasant Ph.: 021-317-9660 Patria: 12-14, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9266 Scala: 2-4, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6708 Studio: 29, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-5526 Learning French, English, Italian or German is what you wanted for so long but you never had the time to do it? The cultural institutes in Bucharest have language classes to suite your learning appetite. Many of them also have impotrant libraries and mediateques highlighting the culture they represent. Subscriptions to the cultural centres’libraries can vary from 10 to 30 Euro.
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course of time. They mirror accurately the development of Romanian art in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries giving a fair view of the history of taste and of the economic power of native Romanian collectors. European as well as Oriental art works are also present
The Museum of Bucharest City:
7D
2, I.C. Bratianu Blvd. Ph: 021-31025.62, 021-3156858. Open daily 10.00 18.00, Closed: Monday and Tuesday. In the heart of the Capital, very close to the University Square, the outstanding building of Sutu Palace, a monument dating back to 1838, hosts this Museum of Bucharest City's History. You will find here collections of archaeology, numismatics, photography, maps, documents, paintings, drawings, funeral stones, coats of arms, furniture, uniforms, flags, costumes and many others. 7A
1, Geniului Blvd. Ph. 021-430-4485. Open daily 9:30–17:30 ; closed Monday.Reconstructing the atmosphere of the Mediavale Cotroceni Church (17th Century) and the old Royal Residence of King Ferdinand, Cotroceni Museum is a valuable architectural and historic site. Works of art for sale.
“George Enescu” Museum:
6D
141, Calea Victoriei. Ph. 021-212-9649. Open daily 10:00–17:00; closed Monday. Houses collections illustrating the history of music composition and documents from the life of eminent Romanian musician and composer George Enescu.
The Observatory:
5D
21, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Ph.: 021-212-9644. It includes both a science fiction and an astronomic club. This small museum of Romanian history of astronomy is worth visiting.
CINEMAS Cinema City: 4, Vasile Milea Blvd., AFI Palace Cotroceni Ph.: 021-407-0000 Cinema City Sun Plaza: 391, Calea Vacaresti, Sun Plaza Ph.: 021-386-0600 CinemaPro: 3, Ion Ghica St. Ph.: 031-824-1360 Cinemateca: • Eforie Hall: 2, Eforie St. Ph.: 021313-0483; • Union Hall: 21, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-9289 Corso: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-1334 Cityplex: City Mall, 3rd floor; 2, Oltenitei Ave. Ph.: 021-319-8226 Europa: 127, Calea Mosilor Ph.: 021-314-2714 Festival: 34, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-6384 French Institute “Elvira Popescu”: 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9930/0224 Bucuresti what, where, when
Ph.: 021-316-3286
Gloria: 6, Bucovina St. Ph.: 021-324-4675 Hollywood Multiplex: 55-59, Calea Vitan, Bu-
CULTURAL INSTITUTES
National Cotroceni Museum:
16
Glendale Studio: 9, Cotroceni Ave.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
14, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph. 021-307-9600. Fax: 021-307-9601/01 Open 09-19, Sat. 09-13, Sun closed. Goethe Institut (German Institute) 6 C 8-10, Tudor Arghezi St. Ph. 021-311-97-62; 021-311-97-82. Fax: 021-312-05-85; Open Mon - Thu 10-18, Fri 10-15. Free lending library program. German language courses available. L'Institut Français (French Institute) 6 E 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph. 021-316-38-36; 021-316-02-24. Fax: 021-316-02-25; Open 10-20.30, Fri 10-14. Sat, Sun Closed. Theatre & film hall Elvire Popesco. Exhibition hall. Huge books, magazines, CDs and videotapes libraries. Internet café. French bistro. Language courses available. Instituto Cervantes (Spanish Institute) 12, Serghiescu St. Ph. 021-210-27-37; 021-210-47-27; 0921-210-6777; Fax: 021-210-77-67; Open Mon-Fri 09-19. Sat & Sun closed. Library & Spanish language courses available
BUCHAREST JEWISH COMMUNITY (CEB) The Great Synagogue: 11, Vasile Adamache St., sector 3; It was built during 1845 -1846 by the Ashkenazi Polish-Jewish community. Since 1992, the Great Synagogue hosts the exhibition The Memorial of Jewish Martyrs. Visiting hours: Mon – Thu 8:30 – 15:00, Fri & Sun 8:30 – 13:00. Prayer Hours: Morning Prayer Sun - Fri 8:00, Evening Prayer Sun - Fri 19:00, Sat Morning Prayer 9:30. The Jewish Museum: 3, Mamulari St., sector 3; Located in the former Templul Unirea Sfânta (United Holy Temple) synagogue which survived both World War II and Nicolae Ceausescu unscathed. Displays a collection of books written, published, illustrated, or translated by Romanian Jews, an archive of the history of Romanian Jewry, a collection of paintings of and by Romanian Jews that, while relatively small, consists of works of a caliber worthy of a major art museum. Visiting hours: Mon - Thu 9:00 – 14:00, Fri 9:00 – 12:00, Sun 9:00 – 13:00. Choral Temple: 9-11, Sfanta Vineri St., sector 3; Currently closed to visitors and services due to heavy renovation works. Bucharest Jewish Community: 9-11, Sfanta Vineri St., Sector 3; For information please contact the office of the president, Erwin Simsensohn. Ph.: 021.313.1782, e-mail erwin@jewish.ro
HOTELS See our list featuring a growing number of hotels in Bucharest, from top-of-the-line, five-star international hotels to local Bed & Breakfasts. All telephone numbers are in area code 021 (+4021 if calling from abroad). See map (page 22) for the letter/number coordinates.
ALEXANDER 1/VI, Pipera Blvd. ph: +40-21-569-5120; fax:+40-21-569-5119
AMBASADOR 6 D : 8-10, Magheru Blvd. ph: +40-21-315-9080; fax:+40-21-312-3595
ANGELO AIRPORTHOTEL BUCHAREST : 283, Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. ph: +40-21-203-6500; fax: +40-21-203-6530
ARMONIA
7E
: 112, Calea Mosilor,
ph: +40-21-312-0477; fax: +40-21-312-0406.
ATHENÉE PALACE HILTON BUCHAREST 6 D : 1-3, Episcopiei St. ph: +40-21-303-3777; fax: +40-21-315-2121.
BANAT
7 E 5, Piata Rosetti ph: +40-21-312-5784; fax: +40-21-312-6547.
BUCHAREST UNIRII SQUARE HOTEL
8F :
3A, Nerva Traian St. ph: +40-21-200-6270; fax: +40-21-200-6273
CAPITOL 7 D : 29, Calea Victoriei ph: +40-21-313-9440; fax: +40-21-312-4169 CAROL PARC HOTEL
9 D : 23-25, Aleea
Suter , ph: +40-21-336-3377; fax: +40-21-336-3736
CARO
2 E : 164A, Barbu Vacarescu St. ph: +40-21-208-6100; fax: +40-21-208-6101;
CASA CAPSA
7D
: 36, Calea Victoriei
ph: +40-21-313-4038
CASA VICTOR 4 C : 44, Emanoil Porumbaru St. ph: +40-21-222-5723, +40-21-222-9626 fax: +40-21-222-9436 CENTRE VILLE APARTHOTEL
6D:
George Enescu St. and Luterana St. crossing ph: +40-21-305-3666; fax: +40-21-312-0927
CENTRAL
7 D : 13, Brezoianu St, ph/fax: +40-21-315-5636/37.
CLASS
1B
: 30A, Gârlei St. ph: +40-21-233-2814; fax: +40-21-233-2886
CONFORT OTOPENI : 255A, Calea Bucuresti ph: +40-21-350-4110 - 16; fax: +40-21-350-4117 - 18.
CONFORT TRAIAN
7F
: 55, Traian St. ph.: +40-21-308-3153/4; fax: +40-21-308-3155.
CROWNE PLAZA
2 A 1, Poligrafiei St. ph.: +40-21-224-0034; fax: +40-21-318-1302
DALIN
9 D 70-72, Marasesti Blvd. ph.: +40-21-335-6306; fax: +40-21-336-6284
DALIN CENTER
7F
: 33A, Soseaua Stefan cel
Mare. ph.: +40-21-211-0070 6 D : 33, Dacia Blvd, ph: +40-21-317-4186/87/88; fax: +40-21-317-4189.
DUKE HHH EPOQUE
6C
17C, Aurora Alley: ph: +40-21-312-3232;
EURO HOTELS INTERNATIONAL
6B
4, Ghe. Polizu St. ph: +40-21-316-88-39; fax: +40-21-316-8360
EURO HOTELS INT’L TRIUMF 4 B : 32-34, Maresal Averescu Blvd. ph: +40-21-224-5496; fax: +40-21-224-5554 ERBAS
1+2D
: 27, Av. Alex Serbanescu St., ph: +40-21-232-6856, +40-21-232-6857. fax: +40-21-232-6527.
GOLDEN TULIP BUCHAREST
6C
166, Calea Victoriei. ph: +40-21-212-5558; fax: +40-21-212-5121 page 21
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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February 2011
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Feel the Rhythm! There are an increasing amount of foreign people arriving in Bucharest to simply have fun and enjoy themselves. Many European travellers can testify that some of the greatest and cheapest nights can be had here. Lipscani, the historic centre of the town has witnessed a recent revival with many of the older clubs being refurbished or completely rebuilt. Many of these new venues would not seem out of place in Paris or London. Like the most International cities, Bucharest has a good selection of bars, clubs, cafes, theatres, casinos and many other places of entertainment. Other Bucharest districts are also quite animated, with lots of people on the street late into the night. If you want to have a perfect night, you can start with a romantic dinner in one of the restaurants around the old centre. “Caru` cu bere”, for instance, is one of the most representative restaurants of our capital, it is a true living legend and also one of the oldest beer houses in Bucharest. It was opened for the first time in 1879 and it is one of the few places in Bucharest where it seems that nothing has changed. After that, you can continue with a show or play at Rapsodia Theatre. Then… enjoy your night in a club or in a bar with your friends. There is a wide variety of bars and pubs scattered all over the city and it is not always easy to choose between Irish, English, Latino or the more exotic among the range of watering holes available. There are also traditional Romanian bars and restaurants. Cyber cafes are becoming ever more popular in Bucharest and these are generally open quite late. There are plenty of nightclubs catering for all tastes and smart dress page IV
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Bucuresti what, where, when
I
Copenhagen, Geneva or Bucharest An Expat's Point of View Although there are some important aspects that have not changed in the Romanian Capital in the last years (sidewalks are still not clean, there are no bicycle tracks, there isn't enough lighting on the streets, nor enough parking places), Bucharest occupies the 14th place among the top of European cities which are preferred by the citizens of other countries who live there, as Roxana Lupu tells in her article in “Evenimentul Zilei”, titled “The Capital, More and More Loved by Expats”. The city is more and more appreciated thanks to the quality of security, housing and health and this is the reason why expats want to work and even settle here, the same thing being true for another East-European city, Bratislava, the Capital of Slovakia, as shown in a study by ECA International, a Human Resource company. “There are better restaurants, more concerts by international stars, more shopping. Life has improved considerably”, says Tom Murray, who came to Romania 15 years ago and has become a successful businessmanin the textile industry. He also believes
that, even if prices have gone up a lot recently, life is still cheaper here than it is in Western Europe or in the United States, and Bucharest has the charm of a European Capital. Nevertheless, in Tom's opinion the cost of basic goods is a major problem. The things used by the middle class now carry the price of luxury goods, and the cost of utilities has increased dramatically. For the Romanians, as well as for the expats, the quality of life depends on the wages they earn. If the wage is one of thousands of Euros per month, they can say they live well, but if it is a middle income one, even an expat faces the tough realities of daily life, thinks Tom: “If you have money, you can do anything you want in Bucharest: you hire people to manage your daily business, you eat in the best restaurants, you travel overseas or to other Romanian cities on weekends.” Nevertheless, he thinks that Bucharest cannot be considered the most sophisticated European Capital yet. Another businessman, Christopher Troxler, who has lived in Romania for five years, fell in love with Bucharest as soon as he got here. “It was love at first sight”, he says. “I simply liked the atmosphere.” Copenhagen, the Capital of Denmark, holds the first place among the preferences of expats, shows the study mentioned above. In the top ten places are cities in Switzerland and Germany, such as Geneva, Basel and Bern, and respectively Dusseldorf, Bonn and Munich. The expats coming from Asia have their own top list: Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra, in Australia, as well as two regions, from Japan, Kobe and Yokohama. Hong Kong and Shanghai, in China, occupy places 15 and 78, respectively. In the Middle East, expats prefer Manama, the Capital of Bahrein, and Dubai and Muscat. Bagdad, the Iraqui Capital, holds the last place in the world, number 300, because of the precarious security level.
MASSAGE: Relaxation & Healing
Massage involves systematic stroking, rubbing and kneading of the soft tissues of the body in an effort to induce a state of total relaxation. Despite some misconceptions, massage has become more accepted as a means to relieve minor physical problems. Although massage has sometimes been discredited, by advocates of modern medicine, it has recently been growing in acceptance. Massage has been shown to help maintain stability and enhance performance in nearly all of the body's major systems. The muscular, skeletal, circulatory, nervous and respiratory systems can be positively affected by massage. The theory behind massage is the relief of muscle tension, and that relaxation of the body will allow for a faster healing process. Massage can increase and improve circulation to damaged tissue areas. People who play sports know that it is important to stretch and relax muscles for peak performance, and the same idea underlies the massage process. Perhaps the greatest benefit of massage, as any amateur can confirm, is the relaxing effect it can have on tense muscles. The smooth stroking motions and the kneading of muscles relieves tension, loosens joints and improves circulation, all of which are beneficial for good health. Of course it is recommended that people not replace necessary medical treatment with a massage. Sometimes medical conditions that could easily be cured by a simple medical treatment are identified as a simple tight muscle or something similar. Although massage does have positive medical benefits, in most cases it is not a replacement for modern medicine. The history of massage dates back almost as far as recorded history. For thousands of years some form of massage or the “laying on of hands� has been used to helpl the sick. For the ancient Greeks and Romans, massage was one of the principal methods of healing and relieving pain. Generally, if you are in good health and just feeling a little tense, a massage may be a good way to go.. www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
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page I
is not necessary, jeans are acceptable. Clubs and bars serve alcohol until 5 or 6 in the morning and the minimum age for drinking is 18. Despite much recent renovation a real sense of history remains, many of the older inns or taverns have become pubs and clubs, but walking around this area can still transport you into the past, to the true beginnings of the city and its nickname, ‘Little Paris’. Now you will find here coffee shops, restaurants and bars where you can drink a hot tea or a good coffee. You can choose a bar where you will listen to traditional Romanian singers like Maria Tanase. The atmosphere is quite calm here in the night, perfect for relaxing with friends. As far as clubs are concerned, from electro to live rock, you will find anything you wish in Bucharest! They are the best and their
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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secret is that they never let you stop dancing, all night you feel so good that you believe you are the greatest dancer in the world. When you visit Bucharest to find some fun, you will feel an explosion of happiness, everyone is friendly because everyone is dancing with a beer in their hand. The live music increases your adrenaline, the guitars, the amplifiers, the singer, all these go together to entice you to the dance floor. Techno, House, Garage and Latino are the popular sounds of Bucharest and, to a lesser extent, Hip Hop and Drum and Bass. For a special atmosphere you can choose a club located in an old building, like the ancient residence of Princess Margareta which is completely rearranged with a futurist design, the perfect location for a high level of comfort and relaxation (Pat Club - “pat” means “bed” in Romanian).
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Bucuresti what, where, when
19
Must See in Bucharest Here is a selection of the most representative landmarks of Bucharest which are a must to see during your stay in the city. You will see these and much more on one of our regularly scheduled or customized tours while benefitting from the expertise and knowledge of our experienced licensed guides. For more information please see the ads inside the magazine. The Cotroceni Palace: is a part of the Cotroceni National Museum. The Cotroceni Palace, church and monastery reflect a three-century old history that interweaves political, military, diplomatic, religious and cultural aspects, with the general evolution of Romanian society. The palace was built in the 17th century by the Prince Serban Cantacuzino. The Cotroceni National Museum exhibits a rich range of
objects of art, illustrative of the Romanian decorative art. The Cantacuzino space is most suitable for organizing presentations of old art objects that can only outline the exceptional artistic accomplishments of a distant epoch. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (By appointment only)
The Parliament Palace: is the second largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon) in terms of all-out surface: 330,000 m2. It was built between 1984 and 1989 by a team of architects led by Anca Petrescu. and was destined for the members of the Communist Party; Besides offices, Ceausescu planned to make personal living places, so the Palace's surface would have been bigger. The building currently houses Romania's Parliament. Visiting hours: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (By appointment only) page 22
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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GOLDEN TULIP TIMES 7 G : 19, Decebal Blvd. ph: +40-21-316 6516; fax: +40-21-316-6517 GRAFFITI
5 D : 25 Albac St.,
ph./fax: +40-21-231-6006.
GRAND HOTEL CONTINENTAL
7D
:
56, Calea Victoriei ph.: +40-372-010-300; fax: +40-372-010 301.
HOWARD JOHNSON GRAND PLAZA HOTEL 6 D 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor, ph: +40-21-201-5000; fax: +40-21-201-1888.
HELLO HOTELS
6 B : 143, Calea Grivitei, ph: +40-372-121-800; fax: +40-372-121-801 reservation: +40-372-716-464
HERASTRAU
2 C : 7-9, Soseaua Nordului,
ph: +40-21-232-9666; fax: +40-21-203-9923.
IBIS Gara de Nord
7E : 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St. ph: +40-21-314-0880; fax: +40-21-314-0888
MINERVA
5 C : 2-4, Gh. Manu St.,
ph: +40-21-311-1555; fax: +40-21-312-3963
MONTE NELLY
6 E : 30, Corbeni St., ph: +40-21-211-0979; fax: +40-21-211-0980
NOVOTEL BUCAREST CITY CENTRE
7D
37B, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-308-8500; fax: +40-21-308-8501
NH BUCHAREST
8 E : 21, Mircea Voda Blvd.,
ph: +40-21-300-0545; fax: +40-21-317-9154
OPERA 7 D 37, Brezoianu St., 6 B : 143, Calea Grivitei,
ph: +40-21-300-9100; fax: +40-21-300-9098. reservation: +40-21-401-1011
IBIS Palatul Parlamentului
8 C : 82-84, Izvor
St., ph: +40-21-401-1000; fax: +40-21-402-2898. One IBIS reservation: +40-21-401-1011
INTERCONTINENTAL
7D:
4, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., ph: +40-21-310-2020; fax: +40-21-312-0486.
JW MARRIOTT BUCHAREST GRAND HOTEL 8 B : 90, Calea 13 Septembrie, ph: +40-21-403-1012; fax: +40-21-403-1001.
LEV OR
+40-21-312-1967; fax: +40-21-310-2799
MARSHAL
6 C : 25, Occidentului St.,
ph: +40-21-210-1274; fax: +40-21-319-0910.
ph: +40-21-312-4857; fax: +40-21-312-4858.
PARLIAMENT
8 C : 106, Izvor St., ph: +40-21-411-9990; fax: +40-21-411-9991
PULLMAN
SIQUA 7C : 59A, Calea Plevnei, ph: +40-21-319-5160; 319-5161; fax: +40-21-319-5162
2 B : 10, Piata Montreal,
ph: +40-21-318-3000; fax +40-21-316-2550
RADISSON BLU
STARLIGHT SUITE HOTELS
5D:
89-97, Grigore Alexandrescu St., ph/fax: +40-21-211-3413 / 14
6 D
63-81, Calea Victoriei,
TEMPO 7E : 19, Armand Calinescu St., ph: +40-21-310-1216; fax: +40-21-310-1241
ph: +40-21-311-9000; fax: +40-21-313-9000
RAMADA BUCHAREST PARC
RAMADA PLAZA BUCHAREST 2 B : 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd., ph: +40-21-549-3000; fax: +40-21-549-3001 RAZVAN 7 F : 159, Calea Calarasilor, ph: +40-21-320-0173 / 83; fax: +40-21-322-0811 REMBRANDT 7 D : 11 Smardan St., ph/fax: +40-21-313-9315, +40-21-313-9316. RESIDENCE 4 B : 19, Clucerului St., ph: +40-21-223-1978; fax: +40-21-222-9046 RIN OTOPENI : 255A, Calea Bucuresti, ph: +40-21-350-4110/16; fax: +40-21-350-4117/18 RIN GRAND : 7D, Soseaua Vitan-Barzesti ph: +40-31-106-1111; 0731-111-000 SAMAA 3 A : 319C, Ion Mihalache Blvd., ph: +40-21-224-0282/83; fax: +40-21-224-0284
2A:
TRIANON 9, Grigore Cobalcescu St., ph: +40-21-311-4927; fax: +40-21-316-2281
3-5 Poligrafiei Blvd. ph: +40-21-549-2000; fax: +40-21-549-2330
RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES BUCHAREST NORTH 2 C : 44A, Daniel Danielopolu St., ph: +40-21-233-5000; fax: +40-21-233-5001;
VENEZIA
7 C : 2, Pompiliu Eliade St.,
ph: +40-21-310-6878; fax: +40-21-310-6873
RAMADA MAJESTIC BUCHAREST 7 D :
Z EXECUTIVE BOUTIQUE HOTEL
38-40, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-310-2715,
4, Ion Nistor St., ph: +40-31-140-0200
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Bucuresti what, where, when
6D:
21
The Village Museum: nestled on the shore of the Herastrau Lake, the museum displays 85 peasant homes, barns, churches and mills relocated there from all over Romania. Tall-roofed Transylvanian houses with beautifully crafted shingles sit alongside rustic wooden churches to form a unique neighborhood. The overall impression is that Romanian peasants take great pride in their work and homes. Everyday accessories: tools, butter-churns, hay forks, beer kegs and clothes are displayed inside the house. This museum can take a whole day to explore and, in fine weather, families settle down for picnics in the scenic grounds. Visiting hours: Nov.-Apr.: 09:00 - 17:00., May-Oct.: 09:00 - 19:00, every day, including Monday
The National Museum of Art: is hosted by the former Royal Palace and is the most representative art gallery in Romania. The Royal Palace was the official residence of the Romanian kings. Its current facade was given the finishing touches in 1937 when Carol II was King of Romania. The National Art Museum Palace is located in downtown Bucharest (in the so-called Revolution Square). The Palace displays an extensive collection of European and Romanian fine art. The European Art Gallery offers an overview of teh most important artistic movements that marked art history from the early Rennaissance till the first decades of teh 20th century. The Romanian Modern Art Gallery illustrates the development of Romanian fine arts from the first decades of the 19th century till the second half of the 20th century. Visiting hours: Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (May - September) 10 a.m - 6 p.m. (October - April) Closed: Monday, Tuesday
www.bucharesttours.ro
The Romanian Athenaeum: is a concert hall in the center of Bucharest and a landmark of the Romanian capital city. Opened in 1888, the ornate, domed, circular building is the city's main concert hall and home of the "George Enescu" Philarmonic and of the George Enescu annual international music festival. It has the aspect of a Greek temple with Ionic columns at the entrance. The wonderful interior with round frescoes depicts important events in Romania's history. Extensive reconstruction and restoration work has been conducted in 1992 by a Romanian construction company and restoration painter Silviu Petrescu, saving the building from collapse. Visiting hours: every day, unless concerts or rehearsals are held.
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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The Old Royal Court: during the early Middle Ages, Bucharest became a commercial center; important enough to enable the XIV century princes to build the Princely Court – nowadays known as "The Old Court" - which formed the development core of the medieval town. The first written mention of the name of "Bucharest" dates back to September 20, 1459: it appears on a document issued from the chancellery of the famous Prince Vlad Tepes (the Impaler). By the year 1599, a new Princely Court was built. Matei Basarab (1632-1654) renovated the Old Court. By 1640, because the prince's relations with the Turks worsened, Matei Basarab moved his Capital back to the town of Targoviste. Bucharest still remained a princely residence. In May 1654, Prince Constantin Serban Basarab (1654-1658), Matei Basarab's successor, left for Targoviste after a rebellion of his mercenary troops, and he ordered the Old Court to be set of fire. The Old Royal Court is an outdoor site that can be visited any time.
• INT’L. ORGANIZATIONS • LOCAL INSTITUTIONS • BUSINESS CONNECTIONS • AIRLINES • TRAINS • EMBASSIES • BANKS
DELEGATION OF THE EUROPEAN UNION: 31,
Sports: 28-30, Gen Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-4056200/6300; www.edu.ro
Vasile Lascar St. Ph.: 021-203-5400; Fax: 021-3168808, www.infoeuropa.ro
Ministry of Regional Development and Tourism: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-211-1409/43;
EUROPEAN BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION EBRD: Metropolis Center, 56-60, Iancu de Hune-
Ministry of Health: 1-3, Cristian Popisteanu Entr.
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
doara Blvd. Ph.: 021-202-7100; Fax: 021-202-7110; www.ebrd.com INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND: 7, Halelor St., 2nd floor Ph.: 021-311-5833; 031-805-7040; Fax: 021-318-1410. www.fmi.ro UNICEF: 48A, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-7872; Fax: 021-231-5255. www.unicef.ro UNITED NATIONS INFORMATION CENTRE: UN House, 48A Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-7877; Fax: 021-201-7880; www.un.ro WORLD BANK: 31, Vasile Lascar St. Ph.: 021-2010311; Fax: 021-201-0336
NATIONAL & LOCAL INSTITUTIONS Presidency of Romania: Cotroceni Palace, 1-3, Geniului St. Ph.: 021-410-0581; Fax: 021-410-3858; www.presidency.ro Chamber of Deputies: Parliament’s Palace, 2-4, Izvor St. Ph.: 021-316-0300, 021-414-1111; www.cdep.ro Senate of Romania: Parliament’s Palace, 1-3, 13 Septembrie Ave. Ph.: 021- 316-0300, 021-414-1111; Fax: 021- 315-8942; www.senat.ro Government of Romania: 1, Victoriei Sq. Ph.: 021314-3400; 021-313-1564; www.gov.ro
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development: 2-4, Carol I Blvd. Ph.: 021-307-2300; www.madr.ro
Ministry of Communication and Information Society: 14, Libertatii Blvd. Ph.: 021-311-4104, Fax: 021-311-4121; www.mcsi.ro
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business: 152, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-202-5106; Fax: 021-2025108; www.minind.ro Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 31, Alexandru Alley. Ph.: 021-319-2108/25; Fax: 021-319-6862; www.mae.ro Ministry of Public Finance: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-319-9759; 021-226-1110; Fax: 021-312-2509; www.mfinante.gov.ro Ministry of Justice: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-2041999; www.just.ro
www.mdrt.ro Ph.: 021-307-2500/2600: Fax: 021-307-2671; www.ms.gov.ro Ministry of Environment and Forests: 12, Libertatii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-0215; Fax: 021-316-3874; www.mmediu.ro Ministry of Culture and National Heritage: 30, Kiseleff Ave. Ph./Fax: 021-224-3947. www.cultura.ro The Prefect’s Office: 47, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-312-6525/021-9866; www. prefecturabucuresti.ro City Hall: 24, Regina Elisabeta Blvd., temporary moved to 291-293, Splaiul Independentei Ph.: 021305-5500/50/55; www.pmb.ro • Sector 1: 7-9, Banu Manta Blvd. temporary moved to 9-13, Bucuresti-Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-3191013/14/15/16/17; Fax: 021-319-1006; www.primariasector1.ro • Sector 2: 11-13, Chiristigilor St. Ph.: 021-209-6000. Fax: 021-209-6282; www.ps2.ro • Sector 3: 2-4, Parfumului St. Ph.: 021-3180323/24/25/26/27/28/29; www.sector3primarie.ro • Sector 4: 6-16, George Cosbuc Blvd. Ph.: 021-3359230; www.ps4.ro • Sector 5: 29-31, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-2838/4318; www.sector5.ro • Sector 6: 147-149, Calea Plevnei Ph.: 021-318-0147, 021-529-8498; Fax: 021-318-0152; www.primarie6.ro
MOVING COMPANIES AGS Bucharest: 9, Pipera St., entr. 2, 2E Building, 3rd floor, apt. 11. Ph.: 021-201-17-91; Fax: 021-232-52-89; www.ags-worldwide-movers.com Allied Pickfords: 29,Topraisar St. Ph.: 021-221-95-46; Fax: 021-221-94-42. www.alliedintl.com
Ministry of Labor, Family and Social Protection: 2-4, Dem I. Dobrescu St. Ph.: 021-313-6267, 021-315-8556; www.mmuncii.ro
Ministry of National Defense: 3-5, Izvor St. Ph.: 021-319-5698, 021-402-3400; Fax: 021-319-5698; www.mapn.ro Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure: 38, Dinicu Golescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-319-6124; Fax: 021313-8869; www.mt.ro Ministry of Administrations and Interior Affairs: 1A, Revolutiei Sq. Ph.: 021-303-70-80; www.mai.gov.ro
Ministry of Education, Research, Youth and www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
23
Corstjens Bucharest: 7-9, Intrarea Gherghitei
COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES
Ph.: 021-240-37-02; Fax: 021-240-37-03. www.corstjens.com
COSMOTE: America House, 4-8., N. Titulescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-404-1234, 0766-121-234; Fax: 021-413-7530; www.cosmote.ro
De Groot IRS: 20, Parangului St. Ph.: 021-224-25-63; Fax: 021-668-64-25. www. degroot.ro Orbit Worldwide Movers: T98, T370 Bucuresti Urziceni, Afumati, Ilfov; Ph.: 021-350-15-00; Fax: 021-350-15-01. www.beinoglou.gr
FOREIGN TRADE CHAMBERS TTHE AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:
ORANGE ROMANIA S.A.: Europe House, 51-53,
Union Int’l Center, 11, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021312-4834; Fax: 021-312-4851; www.amcham.ro
Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Ph.: 021-203-3030, 021-2033333; Fax: 2021-03-3599; www.orange.ro RCS & RDS: 73-75, Dr. N. Staicovici St. Ph.: 031-4004414, 031-400-4600; Fax: 031-400-6060 ROMTELECOM: 3-5, Presei Libere Sq. Ph.: 021-4088068; www.romtelecom.ro UPC ROMANIA: 62D, Nordului Ave. Ph.: 021-9399; 031-100-0400; www.upc.ro VODAFONE ROMANIA: 4A, Vasile Milea Blvd. Ph.: 021-302-2222; Fax: 021-302-1413; www.vodafone.ro
DEUTSCH - RUMÄNISCHE INDUSTRIE UND HANDELSKAMMER BUKAREST: 35, Clucerului St., 2nd floor Ph.: 021-223-1531; Fax: 021-223-1538; www.ahkrumaenien.ro FOREIGN INVESTORS COUNCIL: ING Building, 11-13, Kiseleff Ave. Ph.: 021-222-1931; Fax:021-2221932; www.fic.ro FRENCH T.I.C.C. IN ROMANIA: 21, Andrei Muresanu St. Ph.: 021-317-1284, 021-230-0377; www.ccifer.ro JAPAN EXTERNAL TRADE ORGANIZATION: IBC Modern, 34-36, Carol Blvd. 5th floor Ph.: 021-3106801/02; www.jetro.go.jp ROMANIA TURKEY T.I.C.C.: 58, Austrului St., Ph./Fax: 021-326-9722 ROMANIA CHINA T.I.C.C.: 28, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-5114; Fax: 021-312-1371.
SCHOOLS The following English-speaking schools are located in Bucharest:
International British School: 21-23, Agricultori St. Ph. 021-253-1698,
International School for Primary Education: 72, Petre Aurelian St. Green Lake Residences Ph. 021-380-3535,
Source: Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry Union
NATIONAL AGENCIES BUCHAREST OFFICE OF TRADE REGISTERY: 1, Sectorului Entr. Ph.: 021-316-0820; www.onrc.ro COMPETITION COUNCIL: 1, Presei Libere Sq. Ph.: 021-405-4429; Fax: 021-405-4402; www.consiliuconcurentei.ro NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TRAVEL AGENCIES IN ROMANIA - ANAT: 59, Horia Macelariu St. 4th floor, Apt. 401 Ph.: 021-321-1908, 021-323-0855, 031-106-9810/11; Fax: 021-323-6843; www.anat.ro NATIONAL TRADE REGISTERY OFFICE: 74A, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-0804; Fax: 021-316-0803; www.onrc.ro ROMANIAN FOREIGN TRADE CENTER: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 021-318-5050; Fax: 021-311-1491; www.traderom.ro
ROMANIAN AGENCY FOR FOREIGN INVESTMENTS: 22, Primaverii Blvd. Ph.: 021-233-9103 T.I.C.C. OF ROMANIA: 2, Octavian Goga Blvd., Ph.: 021-319-0114/18; www.ccir.ro
LAWYERS
Ph.: 021-320-1538
American International School: 196, Soseaua Pipera-Tunari. Ph.: 021-204-4300
International Computer High School of Bucharest: 428, Mihai Bravu Ave, Ph. 021-327-5443.
MAIL SERVICES
Fax: 031-229-2601; www.mazars.ro
CARGUS INTERNATIONAL: 1, Bucuresti Ave.,
NESTOR NESTOR DICULESCU KINGSTON PETERSEN: Bucharest Business Park, Entr. A, 4th floor,
Otopeni Ph.: 021-9330, 021-933-0000; Fax: 021-3510200; www.cargus.ro DHL INTERNATIONAL ROMANIA: 169 A, Floreasca Ave. Ph.: 021-222-1777; www.dhl.ro FEDERAL EXPRESS ROMANIA: 13, Fermei St., Otopeni Ph.: 021-201-4822; Fax: 021-201-4827; www.fedex.com PEGASUS / AIRBORNE EXPRESS: 13, Iancului Ave. Ph.: 021-250-9360; Fax: 021-256-9504; www.pegasus.ro POSTA RAPIDA / EXPRESS MAIL: 140, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-200-7500; www.posta-romana.ro TNT ROMANIA: BBP Building, Corp C1+C2, ground floor, 1A, Bucuresti – Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-303-4567; Fax: 021-303-4543; www.tnt.com UPS - UNITED PARCEL SERVICE: 81-83, 13 Septembrie Ave., Bl. 77 AB Ph.: 021-410-0604; Fax: 021-410-9910; www.ups.com
RUBIN MEYER DORU & TRANDAFIR attorneys at Law affiliated with Herzfeld & Rubin, P.C.: 7, Putu cu Plopi St. Ph.: 021-311-1460; Fax: 021-3111465. www.hr.ro
SALANS-MOORE, VARTIRES & ASSOCIATES: 28C, G-ral C. Budisteanu St. Ph.: 021-312-4950; Fax: 021-312-4951; www.salans.com
VASILE DELEANU attorneys at Law Member of Warwick Legal Network: 2, Maresal Josef Pilsudski Entrance Ph.: 021-201-6684; Fax: 021-201-6685; www.deleanu.ro Bucuresti what, where, when
Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.0724-000-900; 021-267-8912,
Lauder Reut Kindergartden: 15, Barsch Iuliu St.
MAZARS, DUNCEA, STEFANESCU & ASSOCIATES: 31B, Econom Cezarescu St. Ph.: 031-229-2600;
1A, Bucuresti-Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021-201-1200; Fax: 021-201-1210; www.nndkp.com PACHIU & ASSOCIATES attorneys at Law: 4-10, Muntii Tatra St. 5th floor Ph.: 021-312-1008; Fax: 021312-1009; www.pachiu.com
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Mark Twain International School: 25B, Erou
www.bucurestiwww.ro
AIRLINES
PRIVATE FLIGHTS
EMBASSIES
AEGEAN: Henri Coanda Int’l Air-
EUROJET AVIATION: 0 B 61-63, Ion
port. Ph: 021-204-19-68; 021-201-45-50 AEROFLOT: 5C 5, Gheorghe Manu St. Ph: 021-315-03-14; Fax: 021-312-51-52 AIR FRANCE: 6 C 85, Calea Buzesti, 2nd floor. Ph: 021-206-92-00; Fax: 021-206-92-11. AIR MALTA (GSA): 1 B Baneasa Int’l Airport, 14-22, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti. call centre: Ph: 021-201-18-52/2, Fax: 021-201-18-53 AIR MOLDOVA: 7 E 3, Toma Caragiu St. Ph: 021-312-08-22 ALITALIA: 1, Louis Blanc St. Ph: 021-318-76-65; 021-318-76-61. AUSTRIAN AIRLINES: 6 D 9A, Aleea Alexandru. Ph: 021-204-45-60; Fax: 021-204-84-28 BALKAN AIR (GSA): 6 D 5-7, Eugen Carada St. Ph: 021-314-39-45; Fax:021-314-39-49 BRITISH AIRWAYS: 6 D 15, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-303-22-22; Fax: 021-303-22-11. CSA: 7 D 27, Uruguai St., 1st floor. Ph: 021-223-32-05; Fax: 021-223-08-84. DELTA AIRLINES (GSA): 5 C America House 1st floor. 4-8, Sos. N. Titulescu; Ph: 021-313-35-82; EL AL: 1, Dimitrie Cantemir Blvd. Ph: 021-317-88-60/61 Fax: 021-317-88-62 EMIRATES (GSA): 5C 57, Dr. Iacob Felix St, 1st floor; Ph: 031-403-5030
Ionescu de la Brad Blvd., suites 1&2. Ph: 0374-222-777, 0374-222-888, Fax: 021-2693-779 ION TIRIAC AIR: 2 B Sos BucurestiPloiesti, Km 16,5; Ph: 021-230-6081, Fax: 021-204-2224
Albania . . . . . . 021-211-9829 Algeria . . . . . . 021-211-5150 Argentine . . . 021-312-1739 Armenia . . . . . 021-319-7604 Australia. . . . . 021-320-9802 Austria . . . . . . 021-210-4354 Azerbaidjan . 021-233-2484 Belarus . . . . . . 021-223-1776 Belgium . . . . . 021-210-2969 Brazil . . . . . . . . 021-230-7825 Bulgaria . . . . . 021-230-2159 Canada . . . . . . 021-307-5000 Chile . . . . . . . . 021-312-7311 China. . . . . . . . 021-232-8858 Congo. . . . . . . 0740-808-009 Croatia . . . . . . 021-313-0369 Cuba . . . . . . . . 021-211-8795 Czech Republic. . . . . 021-303-9230 Denmark . . . . 021-300-0800 Egypt. . . . . . . . 021-211-0938 Finland . . . . . . 021-230-7545 France. . . . . . . 021-303-1000 Germany . . . . 021-202-9830 Great Britain . 021-201-7200 Greece . . . . . . 021-209-4170 Hungary. . . . . 021-311-0062 India . . . . . . . . 021-211-5451 Indonesia. . . . 021-312-0742 Irak. . . . . . . . . . 021-233-9008 Iran . . . . . . . . . 021-312-0493 Ireland . . . . . . 021-310-2131 Israel . . . . . . . . 021-318-9415 Italy . . . . . . . . . 021-305-2100 Japan . . . . . . . 021-319-1890 Jordan. . . . . . . 021-210-4705 Korea/N . . . . . 021-232-9665 Korea/S. . . . . . 021-230-7198 Lebanon. . . . . 021-230-0302 Macedonia . . 021-210-0880 Malaysia . . . . . 021-211-3801 Mexico . . . . . . 021-210-4577 Moldova. . . . . 021-230-0474 Morocco. . . . . 021-317-4124 Netherlands . . 021-208-6030 Norway. . . . . . 021-210-0274 Nigeria . . . . . . 021-312-8685 Pakistan . . . . . 021-318-7873 Palestine . . . . 021-310-7422 Peru . . . . . . . . . 021-223-1253 Philippines . . 021-224-8070 Poland . . . . . . 021-308-2200 Portugal . . . . . 021-230-4117 Quatar . . . . . . 021-233-9053 Russia . . . . . . . 021-222-3170 Serbia & Muntenegro . 021-211-9872 Slovakia . . . . . 021-300-6100 Slovenia . . . . . 021-300-2780 Spain . . . . . . . . 021-233-9190 Sweden . . . . . 021-406-7100 Switzerland. . 021-206-1600 Syria. . . . . . . . . 021-319-2467 S Africa . . . . . . 021-313-3725 Thailand. . . . . 021-311-0031 Turkey. . . . . . . 021-210-0407 Ukraine. . . . . . 021-211-6986 Uruguay . . . . . 021-222-5874 USA . . . . . . . . . 021-200-3300 Vatican . . . . . . 021-313-9490 Venezuela . . . 021-222-5874 Vietnam . . . . . 021-311-1604
SAS Scandinavian Airlines (GSA): 5C 57, Dr. Iacob Felix St, 1st floor; Ph: 031-403-5040; Fax: 031-403-5049 KLM: 85, Buzesti St., 2nd floor, Ph: 021-206-9222; 0800-070377; Fax: 021-206-9211. LUFTHANSA: 6 D 9A, Aleea Alexandru, Ph: 021-204-84-10. Fax: 021-204-84-24. LOT: 6 D 41, Gh. Magheru Blvd., Ph: 021-314-1096; 021-317-4228 MALEV: 9 G PGV Tower - 6-6A, Calea Vitan, Ph: 021-326-8072/73; Fax: 021-326-8074. OLYMPIC AIRLINES: 6 D 6, Anastase Simu St., 1st floor, ap. 18; Ph.: 021-316-6360; Fax: 021-316-6365.
REGIONAL AIR SERVICES - AIR TAXI: Ph.: 0745-058-654; 0742-055-095
SN BRUSSELS AIRLINES (GSA): 1 B Baneasa Int’l Airport; Call centre: 021-201-1851/2; Fax: 021-201-1853.
SWISS INT’L AIR LINES: Ph: 021-312-0238; Fax: 021-212-5774 TAROM: 7 C 17, Splaiul Independentei. Ph: 021-303-4400; Fax: 021-316-44-44. TURKISH AIRLINES: 6 D 35A, Balcescu Blvd., Ph: 021-311-3210, Fax: 021-311-2920.
BANKS ALPHA BANK: Neocity Tower. 237 B, Calea Dorobantilor, 3rd-9th floors; Ph.: 021-209-2100; Fax: 021-2316570 BANC POST: 6 - 6A, Calea Vitan; Ph.: 0800-110-200, 021-302-0789 BANCA COMERCIALA ROMANA: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 08010801-22; Fax: 021-407-4200
BANCA C.R. FIRENZE ROMANIA: 55, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-201-1930; Fax: 021-201-1931 BANCA ITALO ROMENA: 2-4, Gara Herastrau St., ground floor - 3rd floors; Ph.: 021-232-0712/26; Fax: 021-232-0738 BANCA ROMANEASCA: 35, Unirii Blvd. Ph.: 021-305-9300; Fax: 021-305-9191 BANK OF CYPRUS: 187 B, Calea Dorobantilor Ph: 021-409-9100
BRD - GROUPE SOCIETE GENERALE: 1-7, Ion Mihalache Blvd. Ph.: 0800-803-803; 021-301-6100; Fax: 021-301-6636 CEC BANK: 11-13, Calea Victoriei Ph.: 021-311-1119; 0800.800.8488; Fax: 021-312-5425 CITIBANK ROMANIA: 145, Calea Victoriei Ph.: 021-203-5550; Fax: 021-203-5565 CREDIT EUROPE BANK: 26Z, Timisoara Blvd. Ph.: 021-406-4000; Fax: 021-317-2066 EMPORIKI BANK: 19, Berzei St. Ph.: 021-310-3955; Fax: 021-310-3991 GARANTI BANK: 5, Fabrica de Glucoza Ave., Novo Park 3 Business Center, F Building, 5th-6th floors Ph.: 021-208-9260; Fax: 021-208-9286 ING BANK: 11-13, Kiseleff Blvd. Ph.: 021-222-1600; Fax: 021-222-1401 LIBRA BANK: 4-6, Semilunei St. Ph.: 021-208-8000; Fax: 021-230-6565 MARFIN BANK ROMANIA: 90-92, Emanoil Porumbaru St. Ph.: 021-2064230; Fax: 021-206-4280 OTP BANK ROMANIA: 66-68, Buzesti St. Ph.: 021-307-5700; Fax: 021-307-5730 PIRAEUS BANK ROMANIA: 29-31, N. Titulescu Ave., Ph.: 021-303-6969, 0800-801-802; Fax: 021-303-6968 RAIFFEISEN BANK: 15, Charles de Gaulle Sq. Ph.: 021-306-1000; Fax: 021-230-0700 ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND: 10, Montreal Sq., World Trade Center-E, 2nd floor Ph.: 021-202-0400, 0801-022-622 UNICREDIT TIRIAC BANK: 23-25, Ghetarilor St. Ph.: 021-200-2000 VOLKSBANK ROMANIA: 171-173, Mihai Bravu Ave. Ph.: 021-209-4400
TRAINS Romanian railroad is very reliable. We suggest you always travel first class. Tickets can be bought at the station or from an agency (10, Domnita Anastasia, ph: 021-313-2644 [7D]). For information call 01860-0952; for reservation call special # 9522. www.cfr.ro
Dacia R366 Bucharest - Budapest - Vienna 16:10 05:32 09:00
Karpathy R388 Bucharest - Krakow - Warsaw 19:35 05:30 22:54
Muntenia R372 Bucharest - Budapest - Zagreb - Venice 00:20 14:12 23:55 09:18
Intercities Bucharest - Brasov 09:30 12:26 (IC 537) 20:30 22:58 (IC 539) Bucharest - Constanta 07:14 09:40 (IC 581) 13:20 17:16 (IC 583) Bucharest - Timisoara 05:47 13:20 (IC 591) 15:45 23:06 (IC 593) Bucharest - Cluj 13:30 20:52 (IC 531) Bucharest - Iasi 06: 00 12:29 (IC 561) 18:00 23:43 (IC 563)
All the above trains leave from Gara de Nord.
www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
25
On the following pages, boutiques, major department stores and specialty shops and markets are grouped by the type of product they sell. Most establishments are open Monday to Saturday from 10 or 11 am to 6 or 8 pm closing time. Malls and other boutiques are also open during the weekend, though some may close earlier on Sundays.
SHOPPING CENTERS
COCOR STORE: 29-33, I.C. Bratianu
One can easily find ready-to-wear clothes, shoes, accessories, jewelry, watches, sportswear, lingerie, perfumes and gifts. Food courts can often be found on or near the premises. These shopping centers might be similar in many ways with those that you are already familiar with.
Blvd.
AFI PALACE COTROCENI: 4, Vasile Milea Blvd.
7A
BANEASA SHOPPING CITY: 42D,
44A, Sos. Bucuresti Ploiesti
COMMERCIAL CENTER ORHIDEEA: 210 - 210 B, Spl. Independentei
6A
ESPLANADA SHOPPING CENTER: 20, Sos. Vergului.
GRAND ARENA MALL: 12 Metalurgiei Blvd..
Sos. Bucuresti-Ploiesti
BUCURESTI MALL: 55-59, Calea
JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel
8F
Old department stores in Bucharest are in a transition period. Besides specialized departments, it is not unusual to find a large number of small private “Turkish-bazaar” type stands inside. Crowded but convenient because of their diversity, the Bucharest department stores offer low- to mid- (sometimes even high-) quality products. GALERIILE VICTORIA: 17, Calea Victoriei 7 D BUCUR OBOR: 2, Soseaua Colentina
COMMERCIAL CENTER FEERIA:
GRAND AVENUE SHOPPING GALLERY: 90, Calea 13 Septembrie
Vitan
DEPARTMENT STORES
7D
5F
SUPERMARKETS
8B
CARREFOUR MILITARI COMMERCIAL GALLERY: Autostrada Buc-
JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA: 103 Bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St.
Pitesti, km 11/12
LIBERTY CENTER: 151-171, Progre-
CITY MALL: 2, Sos.Oltenitei.
sului St.
9C
MARIO PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER: 172, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D MILITARI SHOPPING: 546-560 Iuliu Maniu Blvd.
PLAZA ROMANIA: 26, Timisoara Blvd.
RIN GRAND HOTEL SHOPPING GALLERY: 7D , Calea Vitan. UNIREA SHOPPING CENTER: 1, Unirii Square
8D
WORLD TRADE PLAZA: 10, Montreal Sq.
3B
There are stores in each section of town that present a complete range of products, from European to American, Arabian and Asian. Many worldwide brands are available. Prices may differ slightly because of the location of the store (downtown – periphery) or the availability of products. GIMA: Bucuresti Mall 8 F MEGA IMAGE: Every neighborhood has one!
COSMETICS & BEAUTY BEAUTY SHOP: • Bucuresti Mall
8F
• 27-33, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • 26, Timisoara Blvd. - Plaza Romania SEPHORA: Orhideea Shopping Center
CASH & CARRY METRO: • Militari • Baneasa • Berceni • Voluntari
SELGROS: • Pantelimon, 90, Biruintei Blvd; • Baneasa, 55-65, BucurestiPloiesti • Berceni, 92-108, Turnu Magurele St.
HIPERMARKETS AUCHAN: 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd.
CARREFOUR: • Militari, Autostrada Buc-Pitesti, km11/12. • Colentina, Soseaua Colentina 426 - 426A; • Orhideea, 210, Splaiul Independentei, • Baneasa - Feeria, 44A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti • Unirii, 2, Corneliu Coposu Blvd. CORA: • Lujerului, 19, Iuliu Maniu Blvd. • Pantelimon, 20, Sos. Vergului BILLA: • 102-104, Barbu Vacarescu St. • 23, Brasov St. • 24, Postavaru St. IKEA: 42A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti XXL: 38-40, Soseaua Fundeni
26
Bucuresti what, where, when
www.bucurestiwww.ro
CLINIQUE: 100, Calea Victoriei 6 D ESTEE LAUDER: 100, Calea Victoriei 7D
INA CENTER: • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A . • 27, I Campineanu St. 7 D • 14-16, CA Rosetti St. 6 D • WTC Galleries 3 B • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Esplanada Shopping Center • 103, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. -
Jolie Ville • Cora Lujerului • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A MARIONNAUD: • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A PRIVILEGE: • 172, Calea Dorobantilor • Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4 D • Unirea Shopping Center 8 E • Carrefour Militari Gallery, • Carrefour Colentina Gallery, • Selgros Baneasa • Selgros Berceni, • Selgros Pantelimon • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A .
FASHION BLISS: Valentino, Louis Feraud, Calvin Klein, Lorenzini; 23, Calea Victoriei 7 D BERSHKA: Baneasa Shopping City BRAY SUITE ANTHOLOGY: Bucuresti Mall C & A: Fashion for Men and Women. Militari Shopping• Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A
CACHAREL: Fashion for Men. Baneasa Shopping City
CASA FRUMOASA STORE- Luxury men’s wear, handmade shoes & exquisite accessories from: Loro Piana, Tom Ford, Brioni, Scabal, Salvatore Ferragamo, Santoni, Lorenzini, Jacob Cohen, Zimmerli - 40, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. 5 C - Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8 B CANALI: – 196, Calea Dorobantilor 4D
ELEGANCE BOUTIQUE: Classic ladies look, warm textures, garments, leather accessories & shoes, art jewellery - 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel, entrance from George Enescu St. 8 B
ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA - Flag-
LANCEL: • Feeria Shopping Center; La Perla: 122, Calea Victoriei 6 D L’ARMOIRE - Concept Store: Special evening & office clothing, limited series or even uniques created by Romanian designers such as: Lena Criveanu, Wilhelmina Arz, Elena Perseil, Irina Marinescu, Dorin Negrau, Sepala by Mihaela Glavan, Kinga Varga, Ludmila Corlateanu, Zasha. 1, Intrarea Noptii with 18, Ion Mihalache Blvd. 5 C LOUIS VUITTON: 90,Calea 13 Septembrie (Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery) 8 B
Specialized men’s apparel • 118, Calea Victoriei 6 D • Afi Palace Cotroceni 7A MANGO: • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • Plaza Romania
MARELLA: 21-23,Calea Victoriei 7 D MARIELLA BURANI: • 21-23, Calea Victoriei
7D
MARKS & SPENCER: • Bucuresti Mall 8F
• Orhideea Shopping Center
MAXMARA: 122 A, Calea Victoriei 6 D MENGOTTI: Prada, Dolce&Gabbana, Etro, Fendi, Burberry, Neil Barrett, Moncler, Valentino, Marni, DVF, Parosh, Zagliani, By-The - 48-50, Calea Victoriei 7 D MODA & STYLE: Valentino Roma, Valentino Garavani, Valentino Furs (Roma), Red Valentino, Love Moschino, Class Roberto Cavalli, Emilio Pucci, D & G, Donna Karan, Donna Karan NY, Roccobarocco, Ermano Scervino, Galliano, Stuart Weitzman, Karl Lagerfeld, Cristiano Burani, Givenchy, Love Sex Money, Ferre, Nando Muzi. - Jolie Ville Galleria, first floor. MORA: 4 C Conceptual luxury boutique, carrying a special selection of premium and designer vintage clothing and accessories, as well as a private and exclusive line of the Romanian high-end brand t shirt couture. Paris St. Reservations: 0748-544911. Opened daily from 12:00 until late in the night.
MOTIVI: • Baneasa Shopping City • Bucuresti Mall 8F • Plaza Romania NAUTICA: • 35, N. Balcescu Blvd-
shipstore: Ermenegildo Zegna, Z Zegna, Zegna Sport 63-81, Calea Victoriei 6 D GANT: • 52, Calea Victoriei 7 D • Bucuresti Mall • Baneasa Shopping City GUESS: 87-89, Calea Victoriei 6 D JKRISTENSEN STORE - Luxury ladies fashion & accessories from Salvatore Ferragamo, Loro Piana, Brioni, Blumarine, Alberta Ferretti, Diane Von Furstenberg, Santoni, Fabiana Fillippi, Ermano Scervino - 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel 6 D KENVELO: Bucuresti Mall 8 F
Outlet. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor 55-59, Calea Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti • Fashion House Outlet Centre, West Park, A1 Bucuresti-Pitesti, km 13 No 36 – SEROUSSI: Seroussi, Pierre Cardin - Bucuresti Mall, groundfloor 8 F - Cocor Store, 4th floor - 7 D PAL ZILERI: 63-81, Calea Victoriei 6 D
PEEK & CLOPPENBURG: Armani Collezioni, Hugo Boss, Vogue, Burberry, Lagerfeld, Calvin Klein Jeans, DKNY Jeans • Baneasa Shopping City PULL & BEAR: • Baneasa Shopping City
RIVER WOODS: • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Mario Plaza Shopping Center. 4 D STEILMANN: • 1-5, Magheru Blvd 6 D • Plaza Romania • Bucuresti Mall 8 F page 28
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MARKETS IN BUCHAREST
One of the unique and more pleasurable forms of food shopping in Bucharest are the outdoor markets. Due to transportation difficulties, supplies are often copious at one market and nonexistent at another. Of the markets listed here, Amzei market has the best selection and prices. It is advisable to bring your own shopping bags when shopping at the outdoor markets.
Hanul cu tei Arcade
TERZOATTO: Italian Fashion. 172, Calea Dorobantilor
3B
TIMBERLAND: 35, N. Balcescu Blvd.Outlet. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor 55-59, Calea Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti • Fashion House Outlet Centre, West Park, A1 Bucuresti-Pitesti, km 13 ZARA: • Baneasa Shopping City • Plaza Romania
FASHION FOR KIDS Z: Kids fashion. • 112, Calea Victoriei 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
7D
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 ac-
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Bucuresti what, where, when
cessories: cufflinks, leather belts and silk ties. 118, Calea Victoriei 6 D GMT Everytime: Men & women watches: Omega, Mont Blanc, Longines, Revue Thomen, Tissot, Tag Heuer, Rado, Sector, Calvin Klein 172, Calea Dorobantilor 4 D (Mario Plaza Shopping Center) HELVETANSA: Swiss watches: Baume & Mercier, Cartier, Movado, Longines, Piaget, Tissot, Rado, Vacheron Constantin. 88, Calea Victoriei 6 D ZEN DIAMOND: Baneasa Shopping City
OPTICIANS OPTICA MALAGA: Large selection of top designer’s frames. 26, C.A. Rosetti St. 6 D OPTIPLAZA: Top designer’s frames, sunglasses, accessories. • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • Orhideea Shopping Center 6 A • Plaza Romania SOVER: • 102-110, Calea Dorobantilor 5 D • Unirea Shopping Center, Central wing ground floor. 8 D • 18, Vergului St. Cora - Esplanada Shopping Center Granitul • Galeriile Victoria 17, Calea Victoriei 7 D • Sover Medlife 365, Calea Grivitei • Cora - Lujerului • Sover Bucur Obor, 2, Soseaua Colentina
FOOTWEAR CESARE PACIOTTI: •101, Calea Victoriei
6D
• 118, Calea Victoriei
6D
ECCO: Men, women, kids & performwww.bucurestiwww.ro
• PIATA OBOR: 5 F A huge covered market located behind the Bucur Obor Department Store at the intersection of Calea Mosilor and Calea Stefan cel Mare. Although the selection of goods is big, the market is crowded and appears dirty. Watch your pockets and bags. If you’re looking for a truly Romanian market experience, this is your spot. Pets, including aquarium supplies, are available, as are fishing needs (including live worms, poles, lures). Wooden and woolen goods, ceramics, clothing, as well as plants cut and growing, are available. A large pedigree dog and cat market at least once a month on the street nearest Mosilor is a fun experience. • PIATA 1 MAI: 5 C Located near La Fourmi on Ion Mihalache Blvd. It is a small market but has a good selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers. As with all the above markets, clothing, shoes, and household items for cleaning and cooking may also be found. Honey and other bee byproducts are a national pride of Romania and are found at all of these outdoor markets. • PIATA DOROBANTILOR: 4 D Located indoors on Calea Dorobantilor north of Calea Stefan cel Mare. It offers produce and flowers. The quality is better than Amzei, but the prices are olso higher. Out of season exotic fruits and vegetables can be found here. There are several other stores in this area. The meat market inside is particularly good.
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
ART GALLERIES CAMINUL ARTEI: 16, Biserica Enei St. GALLERY OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ART OF ROMANIA: 4953, Calea Victoriei
HANUL CU TEI - ANTIQUES, ART GALLERIES: 63-65, Lipscani St., 1st floor. 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”: Furniance footwear. • Commercial Center Feeria • Baneasa Shopping City GEOX: Commercial Center Feeria Unirea Shopping Center 8 D - AFI Palace Cotroceni groundfloor 7A 8 F HUMANIC: • Baneasa Shopping City • Militari Shopping MIHAI ALBU: Selling his own creations of leathergoods and Deluxe footwear. Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8 B
OTTER: •Commercial Center Feeria Unirea Shopping Center 8 D - Carrefour Militari Commercial Gallery – Bucuresti Mall 8 F – 235, Mosilor Ave. – Commercial Center Orhideea 6 A Plaza Romania – Militari Shopping – AFI Palace Cotroceni 7 A – Esplanada Shopping Center.
BOOK STORES NOI: 18, N. Balcescu Blvd.
7D
INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORATION
ket • 32, Icoanei St.- close to Romana Sq.
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
ture, artifacts, photography, art deco, documents from the last period of the 19th century. 14, Covaci St.
INSIDE-forever gifts by INNOVA: 7D
HERVIS SPORTS: • Liberty Center.
4, Patriei St.
9C
ROMARTIZANA: 18-20, Calea Victo-
• Militari Shopping INTERSPORT: 39, I.C. Bratianu Blvd. 8D
LACOSTE: • Baneasa Shopping City • Bucuresti Mall. 8 F
LOTTO: • 225, Calea Mosilor
6F
• Auchan - 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd. • City Mall NIKE: • 25, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall. 8 F • 95, Stirbei Voda St. PUMA: Unirea Shopping Center. 8 E SERGIO TACCHINI: Carrefour - Autostrada Buc.-Pitesti km. 11-12
ANTIQUES Make sure you get a signed receipt when buying antiques in Romania. Ask about an export permit as well. GALERIA NUMISMATICA: Coins, medals, banknotes-expertise & sale. 35-37, Academiei St. 7 D
riei
7D
SARRA BLU’: • Unirea Shopping Center • Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4 D • Bucuresti Mall 8 F TOTEM: Handicrafts & decorations from South-East Asia, India, Africa, South America; Aromatherapy items; Jewelery & fashion accessories; Personalized gifts. • Bucuresti Mall 8 F • 1, Unirii Square 8 D
GOURMET GALA FOOD and WINE BAR: Portuguese gourmet and a wide selection of Portuguese wines. • 111-113, Calea Floreasca right side of Floreasca Mar-
VINLUX: Large selection of special Romania & Imported wines, cognacs, champagnes, whiskies, etc. 8, Libertatii Blvd., Bl. 115, ground floor 8 C
HANUL CU TEI - ANTIQUES, ART GALLERY & AUCTION HOUSE: 7 D Antiques, furniture, porcelain, art glass, jewelery, paintings, decorative art, Oriental carpets, old coins, medals, clocks, ikones & collectibles. The knowledgeable staff graciously assists beginnin collectors, corporate interests & seasoned connoisseurs. C.C. accepted. 63-65, Lipscani St., 1st floor.
ANATOLIAN CARPET BOUTIQUE: Massive silver objects, Romanian Handicraft, glass objects, home life collection. • Carrefour Colentina. 8 D • 31, Soseaua Kiseleff. 4 C • Unirea Shopping Center. CASA MIA: • Mario Plaza Shopping Center. INNOVA: Crystal, design home accessories, home textiles, Christmas decorations, Limoges porcelaine. • 4, Patriei St. 7 D
SPORTS EQUIPMENT & TRAVEL ADIDAS: • 28-30, Magheru Blvd. 6 D • Bucuresti Mall. 8 E • 116-122, Calea Dorobantilor 5 D
THOMAS ANTIQUES: combines the shopping experience with the atmosphere of an old, classy bar. Special book collection in the attic; great variety of antiques - furniture, clocks, wall clocks and standing clocks, paintings, decorative art, carpets and other various decorative objects. 19 Covaci St., 1st floor + Attic 7 D www.bucurestiwww.ro
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To make your choice a bit easier, we have selected a number of places for you. The following restaurants currently advertise in B3W Magazine or are otherwise worthy of note. Each listing has a code corresponding to the gridded area on our visitor’s map. Hours, prices and entertainment are subject to change.
ASIAN CUISINE Benihana Restaurant:
6D
offers authentic Japanese teppanyaki cuisine and a renowned sushi bar. Six skilled Asian cooks prepare the food in front of your very eyes, tantalizing your senses. For any lover of premium-quality fish and sea-food, a dinner at Benihana becomes an unforgettable experience. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Phone: 021 201 5030, Open: 12:00 – 15:00, 19:00 – 23:00 last order. Cafe' Shangrila: Thai, Filipino, Chinese and Japanese food prepared by world class and versatile Asian chefs. Also serves choices of continental breakfast, salads, selection of wines and beverages. A place to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and have a taste of the scrumptious cake selections. Take out food service available. 172, Calea Dorobantilor (Mario Plaza Shopping Center) Ph.: 021-230-47-69. Open: 10:00 - 21:00 Maiko: 2 C One of the most fashionable Restaurant, Bar & Lounge. The ethos behind Maiko is that the true aims of cooking are to give pleasure and satisfaction to guests, to communicate trough each individual ingredient emotion, personality and culture; to create a special event with every dish, to produce a series of little surprises that invariably introduce a new flavour. The restaurant is always delighted to host your Business Lunches, daily between 12:00 and 15:00, and to offer you the perfect 25 Euro meal for such an occasion ( Includes Salad, Rice, Miso Soup, Meat or Fish Dishes). 27-29, Grigore GafencuSt. Ph.: 021-233-2633, 031-805-3985, 0751-262-465, 0730-562-456; Open: daily 12:00 - 24:00
Mandarin: Explore the exotic flavor of the Asian with Mandarin cuisine. Come join us and taste! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021206-8066. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 pm (22:00 – last order) Orasul Interzis (The Forbidden City): 6 E “Orasul Interzis” is the first luxury Chinese restaurant which aims at offering a true gastronomic experience due to the specialties that feed both the body and the soul. The restaurant as well as the terrace can host private and corporate parties, business lunch/ dinner, work groups, meetings and other events, in a selected and refined ambiance. Enjoy the exotic menu and the business lunch special offer, Monday to Friday, 12:30 to 16:00. For those of you who are very busy but still want to flatter their senses by trying these dishes, this little Asian gastronomic paradise can come to their homes. C.C. accepted, wireless Internet, air conditioned, smokers/ non-smokers area, home delivery. 3, Silvestru St. Ph.: 031 425 47 47; 0720 99 3333. Open: 12:30 – till the last guest.
BELGIAN CUISINE La Belle Epoque: 4 D The largest selection of Belgian beers in town. Belgian and international cuisine. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 6, Aviator Radu Beller St. Ph.: 021-230-0770; Open: 11:30 - 24:00. Waterloo: 7 F Original Belgian recipes with Belgian Beer. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking. 188, Traian St. Open daily from 12:00 - until the last guest leaves (24:00 last order)
FINE DINING 2 A The feather in the Crowne Plaza’s cap, this is the hotel’s flagship restaurant, a work of great detail where everything is lovingly prepared by
The Vinyard:
Executive Chef Ashlie Dias and his highly experienced team. Based around Mediterranean cuisine you can always expect to find something special and a bit different on the daring menu, as well as a number of hot dishes requiring waiter and audience. An indulgent treat. Reservations highly recommended. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Non-Smoking. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 17.00 – 23.00, Closed Sat, Sun.
FRENCH CUISINE 6 D Exquisite restaurant in a historical building, hosting Casino Palace. Luxurious interior. Also Romanian cuisine. C.C accepted. 133, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 021-311-9744; Fax: 021-311-1645. Open: 18:30-01:00. La Bastille: 5 D Down the Caderea Bastiliei St. c’est la France qui vous acceueille... French specialties mastered by the Chef Philippe Faynot, served in refined atmosphere accompanied by a perfectly balanced choice of execelente french and romania wines. Special business menu (12:00 - 16:00). C.C. accepted. Air conditioning. Ph.: 021-310-7359; Fax: 021-310-7360. Open: 12:00-24:00. La Bonne Bouche: 7 D Bistro & Wine Bar. Warm atmosphere, friendly staff. Check the extensive wine list. Chef’s weekly menu. Not cheap, but good value for money! 30, Franceza St. (Old Town); Ph.: 0731-247876; Open: 12:30 – 24:00, Mon. 18:30 – 24:00 La Cantine de Nicolai: 5 C Semi-gastronomique French restaurant. Sami Babou, the "Special Delegate" of Chef Alain Ducasse, brings great joy to your sense of taste with his elaborate recipes. Pop-art sculptures and paintings complete the sophisticated atmosphere. The terrace - away from the public eye is perfect for discreet business lunches or romantic dinners. Their credo is: Delight - Privacy - Art. 15-17, Povernei St. Ph.: 0725-210-608, 037-274-6213. Open daily: 11:00 till late (23:00 last order). L’Estaminet: 6 B French restaurant, within the new Ibis Continental Nord Hotel. CC accepted. 143, Calea Grivitei. Open: 7:00-22:30. The Epoque Bistro: Would you like to see the Chef in action? The Epoque Bistro features an open kitchen in which you can actually witness the creation of our splendid French cuisine and Steak house specialities. The Epoque Bistro welcomes you with a winter garden and 90 seats, available for private parties & events. Epoque Bistro’s Chef is renowned for its modern French menu featuring delicate flavours created from luxury and quality ingredients. Extensively trained in the best international cooking schools, he welcomes you every day to his authentic exquisite Frech Cuisine specialities and last but not list the Steak house dishe. The restaurant’s speciality is its 6course tasting menus, but there is also catering for vegetarians, as well as an à la carte menu. The facilities are: smoking and non-smoking feature; free high speed WI-FI internet access; air conditioning; daily newspaper; CC accepted, guarded free parking lot . 17C, Aurora Entr. (Epoque Hotel); Ph.: 021- 312-3232. Open: 06:30 – 23:00.
Casa Vernescu:
FUSION/CONTEMPORARY CUISINE Avalon: 6 D A fine dining atmosphere, fusion and avant-garde cuisine using exquisite ingredients and innovative cooking techniques make dining at Avalon restaurant an unforgettable experience.
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Phone: 021 201 5030, Open for breakfast 06:30 – 10:30, lunch 12:00 – 15:00, dinner 19:00 – 22:30 last order.
GERMAN CUISINE Die Deutsche Kneipe: 5 D Traditional German cuisine, drinks and atmosphere. C. C. accepted. 9, Stockholm St. Ph.: 021-233-9462, 021-230-1120 0722-284560. Open: Mon.-Sat 15:00 - 23:00. Sunday closed.
GOURMET CUISINE Champagne & Caviar Bar: 5 C An exclusive location, a gorgeous villa in the heart of the city, welcomes you in a refined and relaxing ambiance. You can taste here the finest Champagnes & Premium Selection Caviar and special Delicacies Menus: Kamatchatka King Crab Merus on Bed of Home Made Ravioli, Lobster Tail Salad with Truffled Carpaccio, Fresh Tagliateli with Prawns & Black Truffles. High Class services, VIP treat & Valet Parking any time of the day. CC accepted, wireless internet, air conditioned. 40, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves; Reservation is highly recommended. Ph.: 021-317-6007; 0733-735-932. Prime Steaks & Seafood: 6 D An outstanding culinary experience, either for a business lunch or simply for a relaxing escape. The menu showcases an elegant selection of gourmet food such as the world’s best steak, Irish Hereford Prime Rib-eye, or King Crab from Alaska, everything prepared in the inviting open kitchen. Complementing the gourmet menu, the extensive list of beverages includes worldwide famous wines, as well as a unique selection of awarded Romanian wines. 44 places. Red glass for show kitchen, walk in wine cellar. CC accepted. Nonsmoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: Mon. – Fri. 12:30 - 15:00; daily 18:30 - 23:00.
INDIAN CUISINE Agra Palace: From the City of Agra, once capital of the famous Mogul Empire, where the white marble of Taj Mahal guards the banks of river Yamuna, among the Hibiscus flowers and majestic archways, chef Arun Kumar has brought the essential: the mysterious taste of India. C.C. accepted; Free Wi fi internet access; Guarded parking lot. Open: 12:00 .- 24:00 Sos. Pipera-Tunari nr. 47. Ph: 021-350.31.14 Taj: 8 B Indian cuisine. Genuine Northern Indian menu creared by Indian chef. Special brunch offer. Indian live show, Fri & Sat. Indian decoration, soft music, pleasant atmosphere, separate smoking area. Air conditioned; terrace. C.C. accepted. Parking lot. 127-131, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-410-1820. Open: 12:00 - 02:00.
story behind it, giving any gourmand a hint of what is to be expected. C.C. Accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open: Breakfast 06:30 - 10:30 weekdays; 07:00 - 11:00 week-ends. Barbizon Steak House: 3 A Pullman Bucharest World Trade Center introduces its restaurant with a capacity of 65 seats. Taste premium quality meats and choose from over 50 International wines (Red, White and Rose). Live cooking in the show kitchen. New menu starting January 2011. 40 seat designated smoking area. Air Conditioning. CC accepted. Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Friday: Lunch 12:00 – 15:30; Dinner 18:00 – 23:30; Saturday & Sunday: Dinner 18:00 – 23:00; Ph.: 021 202 1635. Hotel Pullman, 10, Montréal Square. La Brasserie: 2 A Less about fine dining but more about good quality, simply food for the whole family. The menu is available buffet-style or a-la-carte and gives a great choice for groups. The wine list remains a work of art and the atmosphere is cozier than ever. Sunday Brunch is back, with playground and a professional nanny to supervise the kids, smoking area and free parking. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Live Music, Non-Smoking, Take Away. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open daily: 06.00 – 23.00 Café Athénée: 6D The new Cafe Athenee is a contemporary place paying homage to its historic location on Revolution Square, the site of some of Romanian history’s most momentous events. During the day the menu offer brings classic European dishes with a modern twist, linking the contemporary design with the glamorous history. As the evening comes the Cafe becomes more of a lounge with candles and music, providing a casual and cozy atmosphere. Specialties to spoil the appetite are served during the night from the ‘Bubbles & Bites’ menu. Deluxe gourmet items along with sparkling wines in all variations are among the best one can get in Bucharest. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Open: 08:00 - 24:00. Cafe Theatro Restaurant: 7 D The heart of the Novotel hotel is the elegant Cafe Theatro restaurant, known for its distinct ambiance, international cuisine and superb buffets. Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 30. Open daily: 06:00 - 23:00. Caredy * Casa Ardeleneasca: 4 C Transylvanian & International cuisine restaurant, placed in an esquisite villa. Large offer and special selection of
wines. C.C. ccepted.Guarded parking lot. 1, Sofia St. Ph.: 021-230-2769. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves. Casa Capsa: 7 D Established in 1852, Casa Capsa is the symbol of the Romanian high-life society. The founder, Grigore Capsa (1841-1902) introduced from the very beginning the occidental standards of quality and refinement. He made Capsa's name a well known commercial brand all over the continent. Having a very good position, this old and famous restaurant is placed right in the focal point of the Bucharest historical center. CC accepted. 36, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-313 40 38 Open: 12:00-24:00 Casa Doina: 5 C Large villa dating from the 19th century transformed into a very nice restaurant. Wine cellar. Terrace. C.C. accepted. 4, Soseaua Kiseleff. Ph.: 021-222-3179. Open: 12:00 - 01:00. Casa Doina La Parc: 2 A the perfect mix of Romanian and International cuisine; a traditional ambiance with modern elements. Its garden is the perfect place for our guests to spend the midday or Evening. 3-5 Poligrafiei Ave, (inside Ramada Parc Hotel), phone 021-315200 ; 021-549-2541. Open: 12:00 - 23:30. Chez Marie: 6 D Try the wide selection of international cuisine and special wines in this recently opened restaurant located in the heart of the city. 48, Dionisie Lupu St. Ph.: 031-107-2033; 0721-376-118. Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. Concerto: 7 D We recommend you will take your time to indulge in the special dishes of our fine dining restaurant, Concerto. Concerto is a gastronomic restaurant based on a modern concept of cooking – “nouvelle cuisine”. Delicate dishes made up with creativity invites you in a delightful journey of tastes. The wine list is complex, including selections from all the regions of our country and also from France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, North and South America. A professional team will counsel you regarding the dishes and the wines, accompanying you through the whole meal. C.C. accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: +40 372 010 300. Open: Mon. Sat.: 12.00 –16.00; 19:00 - 23:00. Corso: 7 D You may take your business downtown and treat yourself and your partners with a special mix of international and Romanian cuisine, on a light lunch buffet. In the evening, a team of Romanian chefs wows you with authentic Romanian dishes presented with cosmopolitan attitude. The spectacular view on to the Bucharest’s busiest boulevard is complimentary! 85 seats. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4, N. Balcescu Blvd. - InterContinental Hotel - Ground floor, Ph.: 021-305-1060, Open: 06.30 -
INTERNATIONAL CUISINE Allegro: Enjoy the flavors of International - Mediterranean refined cuisine superbly executed and served with professionalism. Cosmopolitan and casual atmosphere at breakfast & lunch and more elegant overtoues in the evening. CC accepted. 44A, Daniel Danielopolu St. - Ramada Bucharest North Hotel. Ph.: 021-233-5000. Open: breakfast 07:00-10:00; lunch 12:00-15:30. dinner 18:30-23:00. American Beer House: 7 G American-style decorations, first - class service. Also Romanian cuisine. CC accepted. 92, Drumul Taberei St. Ph.: 021-444-1777. Open: 11:00 - midnight Arcade - Atmosphere & Gourmet: 4 C Finest culinary experience in a charming setting surrounded by paintings from a well-known art gallery. Refined atmosphere, excellent service. Two private rooms, nonsmoking area, Guarded parking lot, CC accepted. 8, Prof. Ion Cantacuzino St. Ph.:021-260-2960; 0753999-333; Open: 12:00-24:00. Balkan Bistro: 7 D You are invited to Balkan Bistro, where the enticing dishes will offer you the perfect Balkan flavor. The restaurant hosts a modern atmosphere dominated by the red and black colors (specific to all Balkan countries). The menu offers traditional dishes allowing you to sense the gastronomic influence of the countries which belong to this particular region: Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Turkey, Serbia. Every dish has an interesting www.bucurestiwww.ro
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23.00, Business Lunch Buffet Mon-Fri 12:00 - 16:00, enjoy “Great Brunch! Guest Love!” Kids room with entertainment. Dacia Felix: 6 D Group restaurant for 224 persons. Delicious breakfast buffet. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: Mon.-Fri. 6:30 - 10:30, Sat. & Sun. 7:00 - 11:00, Sunday Brunch 12:00 - 16:00. Hotel Marshal Restaurant: 7 E From the glassy salon, the open kitchen and the charming covered terrace, Marshal Restaurant is waiting for you with delicious dishes carefully selected and prepared in front of you. Our secret: the charcoal grill. Fresh imported Argentinean beef and New Zealand lamb. C.C accepted. Air conditioned. Guarded parking. 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St.; Ph.: 021-314-0880; Open: 07:00-01:00 Ici et La: Philippe Dupré, French chef, welcomes you in a warm ambience ideal for business lunches or family dinners. The restaurant has an open kitchen and a view to Piata Romana, where you will taste their specialties: home made smoked salmon, beef tartar or even a French cheese and charcuterie plate. Special evenings every Thursday. 43, Mendeleev St. Ph: 0731-453 608 Open: Mon.-Sat.10:00 to 23:00 Jadoo: 7 E Mediterranean & International cuisine restaurant. Special lunch offer - 20% discount (food only). Wood oven baked pizzas. Catering services available in neighborhood (12:00 - 15:00) Smoking and non-smoking areas. Parking lot available. C.C accepted. 3, Nicolae Racota St. - entrance from Clucerului St.; Ph.: 021-222-0502; 0724-365-583. Open: 12:00-until the last guest leaves (23:30 - last order) La Boema: 7 D Enjoy the European cuisine, the selected French dishes in the "La Boema" Restaurant. The relaxing atmosphere and the delicious dishes will make you realize why it is called "La Boema"... And if you have not understood yet, we bring especially for you an entire collection of refined wines. C.C. accepted. Air Conditioning, parking. Calea Vitan Barzesti; Ph.: 031-106-1111 ext. 345 Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves. Majestic: 7 D The Majestic Restaurant offers Romanian and International cuisine, accompanied by excellent service, in an attractive ambience. Capacity: 100 places; air conditioning, smoking/non-smoking areas, main CC accepted; summer terrace. Besides the Restaurant, Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel offers the clients Multi-functional BallRooms - elegant locations for parties, weddings, cocktails. Ramada Majestic Bucharest Hotel – 38-40, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: (021) 310 27 20; Fax: (021) 310 27 99 Open: daily 07:00 – 23:00.
6F Elegance, refinement, finesse, good taste, privacy and discretion, an ideal place for meetings. Top chefs spoil their guests with specialties and are waiting for you. Nelu Ploiesteanu, Rodica Cretu and their guest entertain you daily starting 18:00 hours. 97, Pache Protopopescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-2524513; 0724-263-271 Paris Bucarest Brasserie: 2 B Pullman Bucharest’s newest restaurant. Indulge yourself with a tempting buffet for breakfast and lunch. Free WiFi access. Air conditioning. Non smoking area. Breakfast Buffet: Mon. – Fri.: 06:00 – 10:00, Sat. & Sun.: 06:00 – 11:00; Lunch Buffet: Tue., Wed., Thu.: 12:00 – 14:30. 10, Montreal Sq., Ph.: 021-318-3000 Poem: 9 D Modern European Cuisine. Indulge in the intimate and classic atmosphere, enjoy a refined menu and quality service. Offering breakfast, lunch & dinner, business lunch. Special wine collection and drinks at the Tower Bar or the Piano Club. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking lot. 23-25, Suter Entr. (Carol Parc Hotel) Ph : 021-336-3377; Open 07:00 – 1:00 Red Angus Steakhouse: 7 D Located in the Old Downtown of Bucharest, in front of the Old Court, this restaurant wants to be your first option for a steak. They are committed to provide you with outstanding hospitality and serving you the best steaks. Their USDA Choice steaks are highly marbled with enriching flavor, tenderness and juiciness of the meat. Whether you are planning a business dinner, an anniversary or a large corporate meeting, they will satisfy your preference in a friendly and professional manner. CC accepted, air conditioning, smoking and no smoking area, Wi-Fi, TV; 56 Franceza St, Old Town Ph: 021-312-0383 Open daily: 12:00-24:00 Sangria: 5 D International menu, few Spanish dishes, nice atmosphere. Open/covered terrace! C.C. accepted. 78, Caderea Bastiliei St. Ph.: 021-211-2276; Open: 12 pm - 12 am. Times Restaurant: 7 G Panoramic view restaurant with great Romanian and International cuisine at Golden Tulip Times Hotel. C.C. accepted. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6516. Open: 12:30-23:00. The Harbour: 6 D You’ve come a long way... you need to relax... dock to The Harbour where you will find a buffer zone, the taste of the finest international cuisine and maybe an acquaintance just to make you feel you belong... Terrace and parking. C.C. accepted. 10-22, Piata Amzei; Ph.: 0724-388-686; Open: 11:30 until the last guest leaves. The Sunlight Restaurant: The culinary world of the angelo Airporthotel Bucharest is provided by this restaurant. A copious buffet breakfast, a gala dinner and a variety of Romanian and international dishes are at your disposal every day. The Sunlight Restaurant has a capacity of approx. 110 persons. For special events such as cocktail parties, anniversaries or
Manolo:
dinner parties, the conference rooms can be turned into functional restaurant rooms. And the stylish live music may even put you in the mood for dancing. CC accepted. 283 Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph: 021 20 36 500; Fax: 021 20 36 530; Open 24 hours a day. White Horse Business & Events: Situated in the Northern area of Bucharest, the new established business district of the city, the restaurant offers carefully prepared traditional and international specialties for daily lunch while being in the same time the perfect location for corporate & private events. 12 years of experience, professional services and equipment and the dedicated staff assigned complete the fine quality of the taste. C.C. accepted. Baneasa Business &Technology Park, Building B, wing B2, 4244, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti, Ph.: 031-620-8412; Open: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 18:00
ITALIAN CUISINE Caffé Città: 6 D Northern Italian Menu restaurant for 106 persons. Enoteca, espresso bar, pizzeria, salumeria, gelateria, pasticceria, bakery in a fresh, natural, urban and contemporary mood. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-68, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-601-3436. Open: 11:30 - 23:30. Caffe & Latte: 7 C Wine Restaurant. Our Italian chef will remind you the taste of the real Italian food from the north of Italy, accompanied by the best Italian wines. Rooftop with park view - Cismigiu - in spring/summer. C.C. accepted. 35, Schitu Magureanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-3800; 0744-333-100. Open: Mon. - Sat. 12:00 - 23:00. Cucina: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Authentic Italian food served in rustic surroundings. Fine choice of wines. Calea 13 Septembrie 90. Ph. 021-403-1902. Open: 12:00 - 15:00; 19:30 – 23:30 De Gustibus: 6 F Restaurant, Terrace & Pizzeria. A menu dedicated to only the most simple, appetizing and brilliantly executed Italian dishes, mainly with a Tuscan twinge. Happy Hours 11:30 - 16:00, From Mon. to Fri. 10% Off. Air conditioned. CC accepted. Parking lot. 10, Marcel Iancu St. Ph. 021-211-1449; 0744-520106. Open: 12:00 - 24:00 Osteria Gioia: 5 C Delicious Italian food. Excellent wine selection. Modern, elegant interiors, well trained and friendly staff.16, Ion Mihalache Blvd; Ph.: 021-311-3750; Open 12:00 till late (23:00 last order). Modigliani: 7 D Pasta /Carne. An Italian Original. If you ever feel like savoring an authentic Italian dinner, come at the Modigliani restaurant you can be the guest of its Italian Chef, Andrea Aiudi. Home made pasta, basil, creamy sauces and a whole new world of flavors are waiting to be explored in its cozy atmosphere. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 9, Batistei St. (entrance also from the InterContinental lobby), Ph.: 0730-644-806, Open: Mon-Sat 18.00 04.00 Roberto’s: 6 D You’ll step into another world when you dine at Roberto’s, the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest hotel’s smart Italian restaurant. Soft lighting, frescoes of Italy on the walls and views of the terrace make this a romantic place for dinner. Locals and guests enjoy regional, authentic Italian food and an extensive list of wines. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777; Open daily: 06:30 - 10:00; 12:00 - 23:00. Trattoria “Il Calcio”: 6 D Extensive menu of Italian dishes. Large selection of wines, beers and spirits. Nice interiors, relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff. 14, Mendeleev St. Ph.: 021-312-2430; 0722-134-299. Open: Sun - Thu: 12:00 - 24:00, Fri - Sat: 12:00 - 01:00. Zigolini: A taste of Italy in Zigolini Ristorante! A deliciously intimate dining experience nestled in the most elegant Galleria of Bucharest! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021-2068069. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 (22:00 – last order).
MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE Alfresco - Restaurant & Lounge: Famous dishes from Portugal, Italy, Spain, Marocco, Greece and France, such as : Skate Wing, Cataplana, Sea food
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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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: 021230-3210, 0730 006 978. Open: 12:00-24:00 Il Giardino: Exclusive atmosphere; exotic cuisine; exquisite ambient. C.C. Accepted. 19, Clucerului St. Ph.: 021-223-1978; 0723-671-657. Open: 12:00 - till the last guest. Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete and intimate place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96; 0722-204-884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00.
MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE Golden Falcon: 7 E Best Turkish restaurant in town. Full range of kebab dishes, Turkish aperitifs and traditional sweets. Catering service available. 18-20, Hristo Botev St. (near C.A. Rossetti Square). Ph.: 021-314-2825; 313-2833. Open: 12:00 - 24:00.
ROMANIAN CUISINE 4 E Caro Hotel’s Romanian restaurant. International cuisine. Wine cellar and terrace. C.C. accepted. Guaranteed parking. 164A, Barbu Vacarescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-208-6100. Open: (restaurant) 16:00 – 24:00. Sunday closed, (wine cellar) 12:00 - 14:30 Caru’ cu Bere: 7 D Historical restaurant (established 1879) in the old town district, behind the National History Museum. Original German style interior. Live music and dancing on weekends. CC accepted. 3-5, Stavropoleos St. Ph.: 021-313-7560; Open: 10:00 24:00. Casa Romaneasca: Authentic Romanian culinary delight in the traditional setting of a Romanian mansion with a splendidly decorated terrace, rich winecellar, large selection of Romanian wines, traditional Romanian customs and hospitality. CC accepted. 285A, Calea Bucuresti. Ph.: 021-236-1510; Ph./Fax: 021-236-1511. Count Dracula Club: 7 D Unique theme restaurant, with a cozy atmosphere. Transylvanian and venison dishes. C.C. accepted. 8A, Splaiul Independentei. Ph.: 021-312-1353; 0788-312-878. Open: 16:00 - until the last guest leaves. Decebal Rustic: G 7 Exquisite Romanian dishes. C.C. accepted. 17, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-321-67-00; 0723-515-009; Open:. 10:00 until the last guest leaves 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.
Caro:
SPANISH CUISINE Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete and intimate place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96; 0 722-204-884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00.
VEGETARIAN CUISINE Casa Satya: Vegetarian and Fish Cuisine. Organic Ingredients and Wines. 25, Banu Manta Blvd. Piata Victoriei area, near sector 1 Town-Hall; Ph.: 0788-788-111
COFFEE SHOPS Caffe & Latte: 7 C Italian Coffee Bar & Pastries Shop. One of the best cappuccino in town, just like in Italy. You may come and try it with our homemade pastry. 35, Schitu Magureanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-3143834. Open: Mon. - Sun. 08:00 - 22:00. Cafe Klein: 7 D At Rembrandt Hotel mezzanine, Café Klein is an intimate and pleasant place for all guests who want to enjoy either a delicious breakfast or just a glass of wine. Open 12:00 – 19:00 also for those who are not the hotel's guests. The bar is for non-smokers. Free wi-fi internet inside the bar for all clients. 11, Smardan St. Ph/Fax: 021-313-9315; 021313-9316 Crown Cafe: 2 A The cafe welcomes you with fine cream leather armchairs set around a small atrium in the inside garden of the hotel. Coffee, tea, beer, and later in the evening - the perfect place for cocktails and digestive before bed. The cafe is an entirely ‘smoking allowed’ venue. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Outside Seating, Smoking free, Take Away, Wifi. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 09.00 – 02.00. La Galette Restaurant & Snacking: 2 B Relaxed & friendly dining atmosphere on the terrace. Wide range of snacks. French bakery. Cakes & pastries. Selection of Teas & Coffees. Take away. Designated Smoking Area. CC accepted.Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Saturday: 08:00 – 22:00; Sunday: 16:00 – 23:00; Ph.:021 202 1633; Hotel Pullman, 10 Montréal Square. Geisha Cafe: High quality coffe in a very popular downtown location. 10, C.A. Rosetti St. Ph.: 021-315-7298. Open: 08:30 - 24:00. Grand Cafe Galleron: Large selection of drinks & coffes, quality simple food. Charming interiors, cozy atmosphere. Located in the heart of the city close to Atheneum in a superb old villa. C.C. accepted. Air conditioning. 18A, Nicolae Golescu St. Ph.: 021-312-4565. Open: 09:00 - 24:00. Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest: Over 1500 sqm building; one of the largest HRCs in Europe, the new Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest has inside seating for 300 guests plus an outside terrace with a view over the lake and additional seating for 150. 32, Kiseleff Avenue. Ph.: 021-206-6261. Open: 12:00 - 23:30
SEA FOOD La Veranda:: 2 A The restaurant is housed inside a glass terrace offering wonderful views of the garden outside. It serves exquisite fish and sea food as fresh as the day it was caught. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Smoking free, Outside Seating. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open daily: 12.00 – 23.00. www.bucurestiwww.ro
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Jolie Cafe: Ideal venue for a coffee break or a business meeting. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking lot. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St., groundfloor. Ph.: 021-206-8067. Open: daily 12:00 - 22:00. Kartell Cafe - Lounge: Nice cafe located downtown in historical part of the city. Friendly staff. Small summer terrace. St. Smardan 7. Ph.: 0749-057-770. Open: 10:00 - till last customer. Serendipity Tea House: 6 D Tea and lots of it. There are more than 55 types of tea available, including the trademark Serendipity, an aromatic yet fruity green tea with more than a hint of strawberries. A quiet location just off an otherwise busy central street make this superb choice for long, peaceful afternoons reading a good book with a great cup of tea or two. Oh, and we should point out that coffee menu is not bad either. CC accepted, free wireless internet available.12, Dumbrava Rosie St.Ph.: 021211.31.00. Open: Mon.-Fri. 15:00-22:00, Sat.-Sun: 12:00-22:00 Tekaffe: 6 B In the beautiful surroundings of the city center, on Victoriei Ave., you can stop a while to pamper yourself with a special coffee or tea and enjoy a tasty cake. If you are leaving Bucharest by train, you can visit their second location near the North Railway Station to take a sandwich or salad for the road. The Tekaffe products are all made by a dedicated team in their own laboratory, with natural and fresh ingredients.143, Calea Grivitei. Ph.: 0372-121 821 Open daily 11:00 - 22:00; 56, Victoriei Ave. (the intersection with Ion Campineanu str.) Ph: 0372 010 327 Open: Mon-Fri 08.00 – 20.00 Sat 09:00 - 15:00 Times Cafe: Large selection of coffee, cocktails and fancy drinks, sandwiches, salads and deserts. Summer terrace. Within the Golden Tulip Times Hotel. C.C. accepted. 19, Decebal Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6516. Open: 09:00-23:00. Vienna Cafe: 8B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Chocolate, pastry and cake lovers, this is the place for you - known to be so good that ladies go there for a lunch of cakes only! Viennese and International desserts, freshly baked tarts, cakes and pastries. Wedding cakes on order. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021-403-1901; Open: 09:00 - 23:00.
PUBS, COCKTAIL BARS & CLUBS L’Arpège Bar:The perfect place to meet your business partners or to enjoy a relaxing moment while drinking a delicious cocktail. CC accepted. Free WiFi access. Free parking. Open: Monday – Sunday: 08:30 – 01:30; Ph.:021 202 1632; Hotel Pullman, 10 Montréal Square. Bar “37”: 7 D Bar 37 gives you the opportunity to experience the excellent view of Victoriei Boulevard, while enjoying a glass of wine or a gourmet meal among friends. Secured underground parking available. Credit Cards accepted. Novotel Bucarest City Centre - 37B Victoriei Boulevard, District 1. Ph.: 021 308 85 00. Open Mon-Fri: 07:00 - 02:00, Sat-Sun: 09:00 - 02:00. Bla Lounge Bar: 6 D Centre ice bar in atrium for 108 persons. Vodka, Cocktails, Beverages & Snacks in a hear, feel, taste mood. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 09:00 - 02:00; Sun. 09:00 - midnight. Centro Bar & Lounge: 6 D The perfect place for a business meeting or for a relaxing drink after a busy day. Our fresh selection of sandwiches, salads and pastry products make it a convenient place for any time of the day. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Open daily 09:00 – 00:30 Champions: 8 B At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. The American Sports Bar and Restaurant. A place for good food, good times and good sports. Live TV Sport coverage on 27 flat screen TV sets. Calea 13 Sept. 90. Ph.: 021-403-1917;Open: 17:00 - 01:00 . Club InterContinental Lounge: 7 D With a con-
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Bucuresti what, where, when
temporary design an authentic touch, this is the perfect place for a meeting, networking, a light meal or just for relaxation, reading, listening to music and watching the unique city view. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4 Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. - InterContinental Hotel, 21st floor, Ph.: 021-310-2020 Open: 06.30 - 10.30 Dark Bla Bar: 6 D Cognac & cigars bar for 34 persons. Single Malts, Cognacs & Cigars in an upscale & late night mood. CC accepted. Smoking. 63-81, Calea Victorie, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021311-9000; Open: 17:00 - 02:00. Dreamer’s Pub & Restaurant 6 C Real pub atmosphere! Draught Guinness, live sports, darts and a wide variety of pub and international food. In the summer we invite you on our amazing terrace located on the roof of the pub and enjoy our large selection of fine wines and cocktails. 111, G-ral Berthelot St. (close to Casa Radio). Ph: 0744.366.350, 0723.112.200. www.dreamers.ro Open Mon – Fri: 10 AM - until the last guest Sat & Sun: 2 PM - until the last guest English Bar: 6 D Relax in the soft lighting and traditional decor of the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest hotel's inviting English Bar. Choose from over 40 whiskies, sip a cocktail or order form the international snackmenu. Enjoy a Cuban cigar to round off your night. C.C. accepted. St. Episcopiei 1-3. Ph.: 021303-3777/ ext. 6759. Open: 11:00-02:00. The Epoque Lounge Bar: This is the place for powerful business meetings but also for relaxation in front of one of the fireplace, while enjoying a refined drink or just peaceful music. The Epoque Bar welcomes you with its intimate and refined atmosphere, fireplace, terrace and a fine selection of wines and cigars, daily, from 6:30 to 23:00 hrs. Wireless Internet is available in the Lounge just as all around the hotel. The facilities are: smoking and non-smoking feature; nice and cosy summer terrace, free high speed WI-FI internet access; air conditioning; daily newspaper; CC accepted, guarded free parking lot. 17C, Aurora Entr. (Epoque Hotel); Ph.: 021-312-3232. Open: 06:30 – 23:00. The Dubliner Irish Pub: 5 B Genuine Irish atmosphere. Draught beer. Air-conditioned. Very popular among the members of the English speaking community. 18, Titulescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-222-3737; 021-222-9473. Open: 12:00 - 02:00. Gala Wine Bar &Tapas: Taste a large selection of Portuguese wines accompanied by goat cheese or chouriso, pumpkin gem, tomatoes or figs. Porto or Madeira wines or a special coffee will conclude a delicious experience. For desert choose nata pastel, chocolate cake or almond biscuits. One can buy all the above delis in the shop next door. 32, Icoanei St.-
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close to Romana Sq. Ph: 021-210-4039; Open: 10:00 till midnight. Green Hours 22 Jazz Café: 5 C Hip and unique. Enjoy exotic cocktails and coffee in a neon-lit, tubeshaped bar, with live, trippy jazz-rock on one end and cozy couches on the other-like spending an evening in a surreal submarine. Also a relaxing outdoor patio that's packed on weekend nights. Music most nights after 9 pm.. Morning coffee or nightly cocktails. 120, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 0722-234-356. Open: non-stop The Harp Irish Pub: 8 D Very popular Irish hangout with great selection of beer, a warming atmosphere downstairs complete with fireplaces candle-lit tables and extensive seating upstairs. Guaranteed to be packed with younger Romanians and expats alike any weekend evening. The second Irish hangout in Bucharest. Air-conditioning. C.C. accepted. 1, Piata Unirii. Ph.:021-335-6508. Open: 09:00 - until the last guest leaves. Intermezzo Piano Bar: 7 D Just the way you might imagine a classic bar: sophisticated but relaxed, chic but comfortable. Located just off the InterContinental Hotel lobby, Intermezzo offers live piano music in the evenings, creating the perfect backdrop after a long working day. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4. Nicolae Balcescu Blvd., Ph.: 021-310-2020, Open: 08.00 - 01.00 James Joyces: 6 C A real Iris pub run by real paddy. 1-3, Valter Maracineanu Sq. Ph.021-311-4177; Just Opened. Mora: 4 C comes to redefine the bar concept, offering customers the chance to taste a wide variety of French champagnes, wines and liquors, as well as champagne-based cocktails. Whether a light and sophisticated lunch, an afternoon business coffee or an aperitivo, a quality evening with friends before a night out listening to live DJ mixes. Parking lots available. Smoking venue. 22, Paris St. Reservations: 0748-544-911. Opened daily from 12:00 until late in the night. Onx Pub: 6 A Lot of fun, karaoke, live concerts & special parties. 290, Splaiul Independentei, Regie P16 Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. Orange Bar (lobby bar): If you are looking for a place to enjoy the highest standards, a perfect coffee, fresh sandwiches, sft drinks and the best cognac in town, you most go high, go North! C.C. accepted. 44A, Daniel Danielopolu. St. Ph.: 021-233-5000 Open: daily 10:00-24:00 Pavilion Lounge: 8B Within the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Your favorite drink, accompanied by Chef’s choice of canapés, in a relaxed atmosphere. CC accepted. 90, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-403-1904. Open: non-stop.
The Sky Gate Bar: This bar of the angelo Airport
White Horse: 4 D Pub & Restaurant. English & Inter-
hotel Bucharest offers a pleasant and relaxing environment where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, an afternoon tea, a refined cocktail or simply a cigarette in pleasant company. The hotel’s professional bartenders are always there just when you need them. Located right beside the lobby and restaurant, the bar offers its guests an intimate, private area. CC accepted. 283 Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph: 021 20 36 500; Fax: 021 20 36 530; Open 24 hours a day. Trafalgar Pub: 5 D Beer, wines, spirits and snacks. Close to Turkish Embassy on Calea Dorobantilor. 4A, David Emanuel St. Ph.: 021-211-3151. Open: 11.00 till last gues. Tribute: 6 D First class venue, great live music. 118, Calea Victoriei, Ph.: 0728-742-883; Open: Wed. : 21:00 - 02:00; Thu. - Sat.: 21:00 - 05:00. Victoria Club: 7 D Classic mahogany furniture, leather Chesterfield sofas, warm beige nuances, exquisite services... these are the fine details that will catch your eye and soul in our English Bar – Victoria Club. Here you can taste our delicate teas & coffees brews while engaging in succulent conversation during traditional English afternoon tea time, taste some of our delicious snacks and try something from the list of over 100 spirits. Cigars are available to round off your evening. C.C. accepted. Grand Hotel Continental, 56, Victoriei Ave. Ph.: 0372 010 300 Open: 09:00 - 24:00.
national 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 6 D Chicken-based food. Summer terrace. CC accepted. 28-30, Magheru. Ph.: 021-312-0023. Open: 10:00-23:00.
Kentucky Fried Chicken:
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 Diamond Club & Massage: 30, Regina Elisabeta Blvd, Ph.: 0727-402-436, 0751-370-490 Disco Club Maxx: 290, Splaiul Independentei, www.clubmaxx.ro; Ph.: 021-223-00-39 Embryo: 3, Ion Otetelesanu St., www.embryo.ro Ph.: 0727-379-023 Fuchsia: 18, I. Brezoianu St., www.fuchsia.ro Ph.: 0727-315-713 Gossip: 9-11, Lanariei St., www.clubgossip.ro Ph.: 0721-GOSSIP Kristal Glam Club: 2, J.S. Bach St., ww.clubkristal.ro Ph.: 021-231-21-36, 0721-993-988 Music Club: 31, Baratiei St. Ph.: 021-314-61-97 The Office: 8, Tache Ionescu St., www.theoffice.ro Ph.: 021-211-67-48 Posh Club: 19, Orhideelor Ave., www.clubposh.ro Ph.: 0751-157-575 Session: 47-49, Elefterie St., www.session.ro Ph.: 0729-292-541, 0721-151-649
Studio Martin: 41, Iancu de Hunedoara Blvd., www.studiomartin.ro. Ph.: 0722-399-228 Temple: 25, Splaiul Independentei, www.clubtemple.ro; Ph.: 0748-881-086, 313-35-75, 0727-297-610
MASSAGE PARLOURS Erotic Massage: 50 passion girls in 5 locations same quality and services for your sensual and relaxing moments. www.erotic-masaj.ro J’Adore: Phone: 0735-885-522 VIP Zone: Phone: 0735-885-511 Thai Passion: Phone: 0730-331-133 Jade Palace: Phone: 0730-881-188 Exotique: Phone: 0735-885-500 Ibiza Massage: Erotic, Double, Body and Relaxing Massage. Phone: 021-316-9929; 0727-239-744; www.ibizamassage.ro Karma Massage: Erotic body & relaxing massage. Hotel visits or free car to the downtown salon and back (in 20 min). Free minibar. Open non-stop. By appointment, Ph.: 0722-699-488; 021-327-3884; www.karmamassage.ro Perfect Massage: Erotic, Double, Body and Relaxing Massage. Phone: 0733 571 690 www.perfectmassage.ro www.bucurestiwww.ro
Bucuresti what, where, when
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Dear Reader, Dear Reader,
THE LAST WORD
While the computer penetration in Romania is relatively low, at about 25%, based on a recent survey, the level of software sophistication is quite high. This ranges from little corner stands where you can get your telephone “decoded” for a modest sum, to the fact that a number of US software companies have set up subsidiaries in Romania, or outsource work to local companies. I recently started to read a book by Ray Kurzweil, called the “Singularity is Near”, which discusses the exponential rate of development in computer speed and capacity. If I were to tell you that my fist experience with computers was using punched cards on a physically large IBM computer, some of you might think that I am really ancient, while most of you probably don’t even know what “punchcards” were. A more recent example of the speed of progress, which has reached Romania, as well as much of the developed world, is the rapid rise and even faster fall of fax machines. I remember buying my first fax machine (for $ 800) in 1986, when all my business phone calls ended with “please send me a fax”. While of course today, less than 25 years later, that same phone call will end with “scan it and send me an e-mail”. Yes we still have a fax machine in the office, but, these days we mostly receive “junk faxes”, and even those marketers are rapidly changing their marketing strategy. I remember just a few years ago preparing a press release, addressing the envelopes for hand distribution all over town. I don’t know when we last received a physical press release in our office, but it’s been a while. My present lifestyle has allowed me to observe this exponential rate of
growth across different parts of the world. My home is in the USA, where G4 telephones have taken the form a minicomputer. I recently traded up to a G4 I-phone, and have not yet had the time to learn how to make use of all its features. I do know that there are more than 300,000 “apps” a new word in our daily vocabulary. With the greatest of optimism, I do not think I will live long enough to explore them all. I commute to Romania, while computer penetration may be relatively low, the penetration of ever more sophisticated telephones is surely growing exponentially. I have observed the opening followed by rapid closing of most internet cafes as internet access, linked with a cable subscriptions and low cost computers take over. Romania could become a case study, where not only do mobile telephones make landlines obsolescent, but where we might make a quantum jump directly to sophisticated PDAs and I-pods, eliminating the need for desktop computers. I also frequently visit several African countries, where internet access can still be excruciatingly slow, while satellite based access is fast. I see the changes coming in all three regions of the world at an accelerating pace. No one can foretell exactly where we are heading, and if, or should I say when, AI, artificial intelligence will indeed replace human savvy, but one thing is sure. We are going to get there soon, So, fasten your seatbelts, and try to keep up. May the spring sun illuminate your visit.
Ludwig Gelobter, Publisher lgelobter@hotmail.com
• Volume 18 • Number 2 • • MARCH 2011 • Published by Crystal Publishing Group srl. http://www.bucurestiwww.ro
Publisher: LUDWIG GELOBTER Coordinating Editor: GABRIEL ARSENE offce@bucharestlife.com Senior Editor: David Beynon Web Site: Vlad Alexandrescu Editorial Dept. e-mail: office@bucurestiwww.ro Photos:
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© 2011 Crystal Publishing Group, srl. ISSN 1222-5703 All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Reproducerea articolelor fara acordul scris al editorului este interzisa. The Publisher accepts no responsibility for the content of advertisements. Bucuresti What Where When Magazine is printed on paper originated from sustainable managed forests. Printed by: Coprint
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Bucuresti what, where, when
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