BUCURESTI What, Where, When - JUNE 2011 by CRYSTAL PUBLISHING GROUP

BUCURESTI what, where, when | No. 6 • June 2011 | www.bucurestiwww.ro

DEPARTMENTS 2. NEWS, EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS 36. THE LAST WORD COVER STORY 6. ECO- TOURISM:

Instead of the well-known Romanian childhood song in which to the elephant on a spider’s web more and more elephants are join him until the web breaks, political forces seeking to take control of the capital of Romania have prepared for us a game of numbers this summer, a local referendum that will only manage to spend about Euro 2 million from the already poor budget of Bucharest. Thus, to an initial question which involved modifying the metropolitan local government they have added questions, so that we’ll be now facing seven mini-referendums in one, the moment when the “spider’s web” has broken. At the end of June, in Bucharest’s hot summer, about 900,000 residents of the city are expected to go to the neighborhood polling places and spend, let’s say with no waiting line, about 10 minutes in the heat of the voting cabins, where to sweat, reading what the political majority councilors have created, and then to express their opinion! It is hard to believe that some would leave their holiday travels, cheaper during this period, while others will give up a weekend of fun on the Romanian Black Sea coast, just to give a knock-out to tourism in Dobruja, and instead exercise their right to vote. So, what will remain are the pensioners and the unemployed, who don’t have enough money to leave the city and its hot weather. Will they come to a vote which is not changing their lives in almost any way? Before we see how Bucharesters would respond to the seven questions, the problem which arises will be the validity of the referendum. By law, the results of a referendum are valid only if at least half plus one of the voters registered in the permanent electoral lists participate, and polls indicate an intention to participate of about 15% of the voters! All the eﬀort for nothing! As the General Mayor Sorin Oprescu said, public consultation about the administrative organization of Bucharest is a very serious thing that should be done responsibly. Civil society has rejected the option of a referendum with the 7 unclear questions. But the majority vote of the General Council has imposed its version. Instead of a serious consultation, in which Bucharesters express their opinion about the administrative organization of the Capital, they have chosen the option that will spend money for nothing. Our money, the citizens of Bucharest! So, we do not know why to go to vote, on June 26, and especially if we got into the booth should we validate or invalidate the questions with our vote. We only see once again that lack of professionalism politicians and those who advise them regardless of European guidelines on holding a referendum, cost us all, citizens this time of Bucharest. And instead of something concrete completed with our money we’ll throw the money by the wider spider’s web

editorial

CYCLING ITINERARIES THROUGH THE COUNTRY

THE NUMBERS GAME

• GABRIEL ARSENE

CONTENTS

CITY NEWS 4. 40 YEARS OF HISTORY DOWNTOWN BUCHAREST

10. GOING THE DISTANCE FOR CHARITY REAL ESTATE 11. THE MOST SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE PRODUCT

TOURISM 12. NOW IS TIME TO GOOGLE EIAT!

GREEN CAPITAL OF ROMANIA 2011

REGULARS 16. CITY LIFE ESSENTIAL INFORMATION, HOTELS, MUSEUMS, SHOW BIZ, CULTURAL INSTITUTES

23. BUSINESS

INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS, LOCAL INSTITUTIONS, BUSNIESS CONNECTIONS, AIRLINES, EMBASSIES, BANKS

26. STORES AND MORE A SHOPPER’S GUIDE

30. HAUTE CUISINE A SELECTION OF RESTAURANTS, COFFEE SHOPS, BARS AND MORE

35. NIGHTLIFE NIGHT CLUBS AND MASSAGE PARLOURS

environment

SPECIAL 14. SPECIAL HOTEL LISTING

In 2010, the Green Umbrella project has involved tens of thousands of people and ten cities which have joined the race for the title of the Green Capital of Romania. The Green Capital of Romania is a competition addressed to towns in Romania, and is part of the Green Umbrella social responsibility program launched by Tuborg in 2007, in partnership with the Ministry of the Environment and Forests. Green Umbrella started this year at the end of April, in Brasov, the city was awarded the title Green Capital of Romania in 2010. For 2011 the competition is open to all cities of Romania, which can enroll in three competition categories specifically created. 2011 is the European Year of Volunteering, which is why we want this competition to mobilize more people, in a joint effort of the authorities and the community to become a positive example to encourage responsible civic behavior, the organizers said. Romania’s Green Capital Campaign - 2011 runs from May 25 to December 1 and, unlike last year when registrations could be done only by the municipalities of the counties, now the race is open to all city halls in Romania. In the competition, cities can apply in one of three categories, depending on the number of residents of the town: under 50,000, between 50,001 and 199,999 and over 200,000 residents. In search of the Green Capital for 2011, this year, the Ministry of the Environment and Forests will continue to provide support in recognition of efforts dedicated to caring for the environment and, consequently, for our future generations. To participate in the Green Capital of Romania, candidate cities must register by completing a special form, available for free on www.umbrelaverde.ro site, and they will receive registration confirmation by phone or through e-mail. The Green Capital 2011 Gala Awards will be held in January 2012, in Bucharest, where all contest participants, jury members and media representatives will be invited to attend.

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Bucuresti what, where, when

news • events • attractions Scorpions Welcome and Good Bye! • JUNE 9, 20:00, ZONE ARENA

There are just a few days left to the Scorpions band concert event in Bucharest, and the tickets are nearly sold out! From June 10 Romanians will tell with regret about the last concert of the band Scorpions. The legend

alternative transportation, under the slogan “Romania on a bicycle-sport and means of transportation in Bucharest.” The meeting takes place at the Arc de Triomphe, while the route being Kiseleﬀ Blvd. - Victoria Square - Aviatorilor Blvd. - Nordului Avenue - Herastrau Park, and are invited to attend both professional and amateur cyclists. The closing from Herastrau will culminate with a live show on-air and on-line on www. romania-actualitati.ro and www.bucurestifm. ro, with prizes for participants and open discussions with famous riders invited to the event.

Al Bano live JUNE 12, 20:00, SALA PALATULUI

Al Bano, the Italian song legend is coming again in Romania. For the ﬁrst time at the Sala Palatului, in an extraordinary at least 2 hours concert 100% live, backed with his band. Al Bano will invite on stage again Paula Seling, who will perform the initial duets sustained by Romina Power in the songs that made history, “Felicita”, “Sempre, Sempre”,

created in 40 years by Scorpions members will remain just legend! We look forward but also with sadness for the international rock leaders, we say them Good Bye in Bucharest! We shall sing with them “Wind Of Change”, “Still Loving You” or “Rock You Like A Hurricane”, icons for millions of people, but we will also listen to the new songs included on their latest album - “Sting In The Tail! Since the announcement of the concert, the Romanians have shown that they are true Scorpions fans and they have already purchased nearly 15,000 tickets! Fans who want to have a place to the Scorpions farewell concert should hurry, the maximum capacity of Zone Arena is approximately 20.000 people! The farewell concert will take place on June 9, at the Bucharest Zone Arena and is part of “Get Your Sting And Blackout World Tour!” In the opening of the concert will be two very appreciated bands: Trooper and Christian Becker & Avenue.

The Great Cycling Rally of Bucharest JUNE 11, ARC DE TRIOMPHE

Radio Romania Actualitati and Bucuresti FM Radio are organising on June 11, the ﬁrst edition of the Great Cycling Rally of Bucharest, an event that continues the Cycling Tour of Romania. This rally promotes cycling as a green

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“Ci Sara”, “Sharazan” “Liberta.” The famous Italian artist always remains actual, even this year witnessing a great success at the San Remo Festival. The program will not miss his eternal success, but the newer songs in modern orchestration, conducted by maestro Alterisio Paoletti. A concert for all ages!

bow down before the gracefulness and the uniqueness of the performance, but cultivate deep faith in the unlimited human abilities, positive attitude and strong love for life. In 1987, about 30 disabled people who love arts were permitted to participate in the First China Arts Festival and founded the China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe. The show cover vocal solo, chorus, traditional Chinese instrument band and western instrument band, folk dance, ballet, Latin dance, modern dance, condensed dance drama, Peking Opera and poem in sign language. My Dream goes beyond the boundaries of culture, nations and countries and brings enjoy and ediﬁcation to the audiences. It is referred to as a “Messenger of Beauty and Humanity” by the international community and as “Image Ambassador for People with Disabilities in the World” by the Disabled People’s World Assembly and is designated as UNESCO Artist for Peace.

Rock with Lake Of Tears! JUNE 25, 20:00, ARENELE ROMANE

My Dream Event-Show JUNE 15, 20:00, SALA PALATULUI

After more than 150 shows, in 60 countries, ”My Dream” show arrives in Romania. The show of China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe (CDPPAT) it’s a special and unique experience. The performance My Dream and the visit of the troupe are part of one social message - “Choose to dream”, a personal and social position, world perception - to think beyond the limits, to value and celebrate life every day. It aims at unifying people in Romania which are disciples of this philosophy. The Art Troupe are ambassadors of the power of the human spirit which had raised them from people with disabilities to a world phenomenon. The beauty of their show, their outstanding professional performance and technique and the positive messages of the show will make every spectator not only

The famous band Lake Of Tears is coming back in Romania! For the Lake Of Tears Swedes this is not the first concert in our country, their first concert in Romania taking place in March 2006, the confirmation of their

tremendous success in Europe! The rockers have created a real hysteria, two weeks before the event the tickets to the concert being sold out! If you are not yet acquainted with the band, it comes from Sweden, currently has four members and sing ‘gothic metal’ and ‘doom metal’. The band was founded in the ‘90s by Daniel Brannare, Jonas Eriksson, Mihael Larrson and Johan Oudhuis. In 2000 they separated, they took a break for several years and reunited in 2003. Until now they have released eight albums, the last released this year, in April. The new musical product is called Illwill, contains 10 songs and ﬁts in the same genre with which they already have regular fans - gothic progressive metal.

Sistem – Fundraiser for Japan JUNE 10, 21:00, FRATELLI STUDIOS

The ﬁrst fusion charity show takes place on June 10, starting at 21:00, in the Fratelli Studios. The hottest Japanese artists and Sistem band present a show for the children in Sendai and Fukushima. Sistem band, DJ Indie Jules and ﬁve of the most famous Japanese artists are the guests of the charity fusion show Through Time: Japan Stories.

Sistem will play with a young Japanese percussionist and then will end the evening with their concert. The members of the band posted on their Facebook page: “It will be an evening ﬁlled with music, pictures and special sensations - all to raise funds for children in areas aﬀected by earthquake in Japan. Come and join us!” Through Time: Stories Japan will meet unconventional percussion, trance, electro and Japanese traditional music, bringing on stage the most trendy young Japanese musicians, Takuma Kato, Taiko soloist (traditional Japanese drums) and Tokyo Ghetto Shamisen (Atsushi Sagat, electric Shamisen singer, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument). The stories will be continued by Keishun, a young Shodo artist, traditional calligraphy. Keishun is famous for her human body calligraphies. Through her art, calligraphy goes beyond the conventional. In the show in Bucharest, Keishun will write Japanese characters on the bodies of some young models. The show at Fratelli Studios will be fully honored and coordinated by the evening’s special guest, Rome Kanda, Japanese actor, host of the TV show I survived A Japanese Game Show, running prime time on ABC and broadcasted allover the world .

The charity event is organized by the creative library Bucharest inspired by Toyota and the Romanian-American University (CLB), Romanian-Japanese Studies Centre (CSRJ) and J-Wind Creative Consultants. Entrance to Through Time: Stories Japan is free but limited by the available places. Reservations for the June 10 show can be made by phone: 0722-233-114 and by e-mail: creativelibrarybuc@j-wind.eu

International Fairs & Exhibitions

Ambient - Interior Decoration and Furniture

JUNE 8-12, ROMEXPO

Ambient is one of the most important fair within South-Eastern and Central Europe area which presents a very comprehensive range of products and systems for interior

and outdoor decoration, home textiles and furniture. At its 18th edition, the fair will be organised in a new concept that follows the international trends launched by the most important European organisers, with similar thematic. In this regard, starting with this year, the targeted group of products will also

include the producers and distributors of furniture from Romania and abroad. The main group of products in Ambient 2011 are: Products and systems for finishing • Interior decoration • Outdoor decoration • furniture • household equipment • real estate residential offers. The last two editions of the fair have hosted more than 600 companies, from which 30% were foreign companies and 20% were companies at first participation, and the exhibitors’ stands were visited by more than 35,000 visitors both professionals and large public.

Expo Flowers & Garden JUNE 8-12, ROMEXPO

As life becomes more and more artificial, we feel an ever increasing need of naturalness not only among people, but also as regards the materials we interact with every day. People living in today’s cities feel the need to harmonize their environment by turning to floral designers or landscape artists who use natural objects and flowers. Floral design is more than a profession - it is an artistic interpretation. It is very important for floral designers or florists to keep the traditions of this art alive, as handicraft products will always be appreciated now that the world has become aware of the environment. This is why the event is intended for professional growers of flowers and plants, landscape companies, professional florists and flower distributors, traders, importers and exporters of flowers and plants, landscape designers, horticultural businessmen, distributors of products required for the maintenance of green spaces and owners of greenhouses. Expo Flowers & Garden is an opportunity to attract new customers and to network with competitors.

Radisson Blu Bucharest, Again in Expedia Insiders’ Select For the second consecutive year, the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bucharest was included in the Expedia Insiders’ Select, the exclusive list of best hotels in the world recommended by the largest online travel agency, Expedia. Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest is the only five star hotel in Romania included on Expedia Insiders’ Select List 2011 and was selected from 130,000 hotels around the world on the online agency website, based on over 500,000 views expressed by Expedia customers. Expedia Insiders’ Select list brings together the best rated hotels in terms of excellence in service, quality standards and overall impression for the customers and is a reliable tool, efficient and extremely helpful in choosing the hotel you want, based on assessments other tourists. Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest ranks first between the five star hotels in

Bucharest also in the popularity ranking compiled by TripAdvisor. Recently, the hotel Radisson Blu Bucharest was designated the Hotel of the Year in Romania at the fourth edition of Hotel & Leisure Tourism Investment Forum. Also this year, the Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest was designated the Global Hotel of the Year within the prestigious American hotel group Carlson, being selected from over 1,070 hotels that are part of the global Carlson network. www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

city news

40 Years of History Downtown Bucharest • InterContinental Hotel celebrated 40 years since its opening in May 1971 To mark this anniversary, during the weekend May 28 to 29, hotel guests and customers have received discounts on accommodation and restaurants Corso and Modigliani, and Intermezzo bar. In the lobby was arranged a small exhibition with furniture, photos, magazine clippings and with statements of people who have assisted in the construction and opening of the hotel. Hotel InterContinental Bucharest history began in the ‘60s, when a representative of Cyrus Eaton Group arrived in Bucharest. Cyrus Eaton had the idea of building an InterContinental hotel in Bucharest forced by circumstances to spend the night in a

hotel lobby because the accommodation was limited. The hotel was built by Romanian architects D. Hariton, Ghe Nadrag, I. Moscu and Romeo Belea. To the project worked builders, engineers and Romanian workers, with the supervision of InterContinental hotel chain representatives, and the building was completed after three years, a record for that time. “By 1966, with the chief architect of Bucharest, Prof. Maicu, I began studies on locations for the ﬁrst renowned hotel that would be done in Bucharest. I proposed Kiseleﬀ Park and Unirii Square, places which now I call them unfortunate. InterContinental representatives considered that the University Square is the center of city and then here we have built it, on the site of a former Zahana (popular restaurant) - La Zisu,” says Romeo Belea, one of the architects of the hotel. InterContinental Bucharest was at the time of its opening, but also 25 years later, the tallest building in Romania. Almost 30 years InterContinental was also the only 4 Bucuresti what, where, when

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five-star hotel in Romania that operated at international standards. Immediately after opening, at Otopeni airport landed also the first PanAm plane, the U.S. air operator being at that time the holder of the InterContinental brand. “The InterContinental in Bucharest was opened in a favorable political moment, when Ceausescu tried to separate itself from the Soviet policy. When the hotel opened in May 1971 were also inaugurated the PanAm airline flights to Bucharest. Even in the official opening day Pan Am landed a plane full of American tourists, who enjoyed themselves all night in the hotel. So, the hotel was full from the opening day and for long time afterwards,” said George Opris, Rooms Division Manager, 1971 -1996. “The InterContinental was a real school for the hospitality industry in Romania. The first employees have learned to work according to international standards within the InterContinental chain, and they in turn taught the younger ones,” continued George Opris. The hotel opened with 423 rooms and suites, a wellness center on the 22nd floor, Balada restaurant with Romanian cuisine and Luna Bar, at the 21st floor, Belvedere Bar on the 2nd floor, with terrace to University Square, the Ronda Hall at the 1st floor, Picolo Bar and a casino at the 1st floor, Corso

Brasserie, restaurant Madrigal and Self on the ground floor. The InterContinental has introduced for the first time in a hotel in Romania the Swedish buffet breakfast, but also the room service concept.

“Foreigners were delighted by the taste of the Romanian food. This was due to the fact that we purchased vegetables, fruit, meat, cheese... from local production and at that time in Romania had not yet entered the chemicals from western countries. It was a very popular cocktail of crayﬁsh tails with vegetables salad and Calypso sauce, which cost 17 old lei,” told us Iulian Stanciu, Chef. Over the 40 years of existence, presidents, athletes, princes and princesses and leading businessmen were special guests of the InterContinental Hotel. Among them: Lenny Kravitz, Bill Gates, Harlem Globe Trotters team, Robert Gates - the Chief of the Pentagon, the White House press during NATO Summit, Zucchero, Prince Hassan of Jordan, Demis Roussos, Jose Carreras, Shimon Peres, Jacques Yves Cousteau, Luciano Pavarotti, Boy George, Richard Claydermann, Bjorg Borg, Stan Smith, Billy Idol, Latoya Jackson, Kessler Sisters, Yehudi Menuhin...

During the earthquake of 1977 or the Revolution of 1989 the hotel was a silent witness and its employees were the people who have had to operate the hotel and keep the guests happy and safe, regardless of the troubled times Romania was passing through. Today, InterContinental Hotel operates with 257 renovated rooms and suites, spacious and stylish furniture, equipped to the level of its 5 stars. To the famous Ronda meeting room, from the 1st floor, were added Rhapsodia, Opera, Opera, Hora and Simfonia halls, where are organized the most diverse events. The modern 21st floor Fortuna hall replaced the famous Balada restaurant. Corso Brasserie and Terrace, Restaurant Modigliani - pasta/meat and Intermezzo Bar are other locations where guests discover the delights of the Romanian cuisine, along with international specialties. The health center operates at the 22nd floor, with inside pool and terrace, gym, sauna, jacuzzi and bar. InterContinental Bucharest Hotel is operated under management contract by InterContinental Hotels Group chain.

philharmonic & opera

GEORGE ENESCU PHILHARMONIC All concerts begin at 19.00 hours and are held at the Romanian Athenaeum Concert Hall. The complete program on www.fge.org.ro 1-3, Franklin St. Ph: 021-315-0024 www.fge.ro THURSDAY/FRIDAY, JUNE 9/10, 19:00 Rossini -

Semiramide Overture, Mozart - Concerto no. 16 for piano & orchestra, Dvorak - Symphony no. 7 The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Ronald Zolmann, Soloist: Dominique Merlet THURSDAY/FRIDAY, JUNE 16/17, 19:00 Verdi - Sicilian Vespers opera Overture, Livia

Teodorescu - Concerto for piano & orchestra p.a., Schumann - Symphony no. 3 The Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Paul Nadler, Soloist: Livia Teodorescu -Ciocanea THURSDAY/FRIDAY, JUNE 23/24, 19:00 Tchaikovsky - Francesca da Rimini Fantasia, Rachmaninoff - Rhapsody for piano & orchestra on a Paganini theme, Mussorgsky - Ravel – Paintings from an Exhibition The Philharmony Orchestra of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. Conductor: Christian Badea, Soloist: Katia Mecetina THURSDAY/FRIDAY, JULY 1/2, 19:00 Closing of the Season Verdi – Requiem, 60 years of the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic. The Philharmony Orchestra and the Choir of the „George Enescu” Philharmonic.

Conductor: Christian Badea, Choir Conductor: Iosif Ion Prunner TUESDAY JULY 5, 19:00 Film music by Vladimir Cosma FGE Symphonic Orchestra Conductor: Vladimir Cosma, Soloists: Silvia Marcovici, Sarah Pagin, Gheorghe Zamfir, Phillipe Cathrine, Fiona Monbet

www.bucurestiwww.ro

BUCHAREST NATIONAL OPERA 70 - 72, Mihail Kogalniceanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-313-1857; www.operanb.ro Season break during the summer, until September 1.

Bucuresti what, where, when

cover story

eco-tourism

Cycling Itineraries through the Country

If you arrive more often in Bucharest or in one of the major cities of Romania, you have probably noticed the growing number of people who wander through the parks by bicycle. It is estimated that last year were sold in Romania over 500,000 bicycles. There have been opened dozens of new shops and different organizations have seen the potential of the cycling competitions, so, this year there are about 45 such events. It certainly is a market that continues to grow. 6 Bucuresti what, where, when

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“I’Velo is the base project for the ideas developed by the Green Revolution Association in terms of transport alternative to current methods, but for a more healthy life, with more exercise. The bicycle is not than an object which you got oﬀ the attic only on occasion. It is, day by day, that alternative transport we have been looking for a long time,” told us Raluca Fiser, President of Green Revolution. I’Velo Project is organised under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, the Municipalities of Bucharest, Brasov, Cluj-Napoca, Iasi and Constanta and the Administration of Lakes, Parks and Recreation Bucharest (ALPAB). The I Velo Bikes can be rented only with an ID-card and can be used for a limited period of two hours. An adult can rent up to three bicycles, one for adults and two for children. Bikes can be rented both during the week and on weekends from 10.00 to 20.00. The four I’Velo renting-centers are located in Bucharest as follows: two in Herastrau (one in the Flora Expo - Pescarus and the other in the Baraka), one in Tineretului Park (the entrance from the Sincai high-school) and the-fourth in the Izvor Park (the entrance near the Metro station). The success of the project determined its nationwide expansion, with the support of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, by opening four more centers in the cities of Cluj-Napoca, Targu Mures, Iasi and Constanta. The center from Targu Mures was relocated to Brasov in 2011, and is located near the Town Hall, Eroilor Blvd. In Cluj-Napoca, the I Velo center is positioned in front of the Sports Hall, in Iasi interested persons can ﬁnd bicycles in

What services are there for those who do not yet have their own bike or the physical form required for application to the contests? What solutions, if you want to spend a relaxing holiday on two wheels without care for transportation, accommodation or routing? If we look first of all at the bicyclists from the cities, beside those who have already bought a bike there are many people willing to use this wonderful vehicle only occasionally, especially on weekends. I Velo is the largest bike-sharing program in Romania. The program was launched last year by Raiffeisen Bank and the Association of Green Revolution. By I’Velo, the organizers offer 1100 bikes in four cities: Bucharest (600 bicycles), Brasov (100), Cluj-Napoca (135), Iasi (135) and Constanta (135). www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

Rapa Galbena area and those in Constanta, in the Tabacarie Park. For those who want to rent a bicycle for more than 2 hours, the period may reach up to 48 hours. The money raised will be used to expand the I’Velo program in Bucharest and other cities. Prices are: 3 Lei/hour or 15 Lei/day.

The Contests - Enjoyment for Amateurs and Professionals So the ﬁrst steps towards promoting bicycle use were made. And, of course, if they had appeared the cyclists it came the time for competitions. In May, the First Escape opened the season for mountain bike marathons in Romania, by an easy route without level diﬀerences. The contest took place on country roads through the forests north of the Capital, on a distance of about 55 km between Bucharest and Snagov, the destination located on Lake Snagov, within the leisure complex Astoria. The contest, at its third edition, is the only cross-country cycling marathon in Bucharest and most popular in the country. “We are also preparing a circuit of multisport competitions in order to promote national and international the huge potential of the Carpathians, under the brand: 7 8 Bucuresti what, where, when

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Mountains in the Carpathian Garden,” told us Ovidiu Popescu, President of Altitude Mountain Club, the Great Escape organiser. Promoter of the physical activity, the General Mayor Sorin Oprescu was the one who started the First Escape marathon from Bucharest. The professionals also have their annual joy - Tour of Romania, known as Little Loop. This year’s edition, the 48th, which takes place between June 4 and 11, on a route with the start in Constanta and arrival in Bucharest, have conﬁrmed 90 riders from 13 countries. The trail measures about 1,400 km, and the rise from Balea Lac is included in the program. The Little Loop is giving six shirts: Yellow - 1st overall, White - the most combative rider, Green - the best climber, Red - the best sprinter, Bleu - the highest ranking Romanian and White with COSR logo – for the best young Romanian. Among the Romanian athletes, the best known are Carol Eduard Novak, the only Paralympic champion of our country, Alex Ciocan, Marian Frunzeanu, Razvan Juganaru and Andrei Nechita. Radio Romania Actualitati and Bucuresti FM Radio are organising on June 11, the ﬁrst edition of the Great Cycling Rally of Bucharest, an event that continues the Cycling Tour of

Romania. This rally promotes cycling as a green alternative transportation, under the slogan “Romania on a bicycle-sport and means of transportation in Bucharest.” The meeting takes place at the Arc de Triomphe, the route being Kiseleﬀ Blvd. Victoria Square - Aviatorilor Blvd. - Nordului Avenue - Herastrau Park, and are invited to attend both professional and amateur cyclists. The closing from Herastrau will culminate with a live show on-air and on-line on www. romania-actualitati.ro and www.bucurestifm. ro, with prizes for participants and open discussions with famous riders invited to the event.

City Cycling vs. Cycling Holidays Cycling holidays are becoming a trend in Romania although at this moment there are very few tour operators specialised in bicycle vacations. Romanians are starting to rediscover the pleasure of cycling. Unlike the foreign market, Romanians and those who visit our country lack the services of recreational cycling. If I do not have my bike, if I am not facing rough roads of the competitions but I want to do a ride away from the hubbub of the city and I want to relax, to whom I call? In countries like France or England the answer is simple and convenient. A single search

on google with “cycling holiday” gives you hundreds of thousands of results. In Romania, the market for such services is still in its infancy. There are only a few agencies, one of which is Enjoy Transylvania. The services oﬀered by these companies are complete and responsive to each tourist exercise capacity. Tourists get advice on choosing the route, the bike and assistance from a specialized guide throughout the ride. Agency handles all logistics: transport by car to the place where the bicycle trail begins, luggage transfer to your accommodation, organize events in the agro hostels and ongoing technical assistance. As an example, Transylvania Enjoy organised for the weekend on May 1 a cycling mini-holyday as an alternative to the classic travel to the Black Sea. The ride on two wheels included the Transylvanian Saxon villages, whose inhabitants still preserve ancestral customs and old recipes. Day program included cycling through hills and pastures “guarded” by herds of cattle, with a picnic, and in the evening - party at the agro hostels. The bike rental, transport, accommodation, meals and professional assistance from a guide - the whole experience did not exceed 250 Lei. Mircea Olaru, Enjoy Transylvania Director, told us that generally he oﬀers two days tours on the bike, not only in Transylvania.

Valcea, the County with the Best Biking Tracks Petriﬁed eggs of prehistoric creatures, cule (old fortiﬁed houses) designed to withstand attacks by the Turks and the songs of birds that remember the call of the night... Valcea County is proposed for both the classic traveler, eager to visit the area with the most monasteries in the country and for those who search legend and mystical. More importantly, the dozens of hills is ideal for cycling tours. The region began only recently

to be seen as a destination for cyclists. Among the advantages, Valcea is near Bucharest: you get from the Capital in three hours by car, half of the journey being on the highway. Another advantage: the county has tens of kilometers of good riding trails! Unlike other areas as attractive for amateur cyclists in Valcea you may combine sightseeing with visiting. Or demonstrations of pottery, Horezu being the most important center for pottery in the country. To visit the area on a bicycle, you need two days. The experience costs you around 250 Lei if calling from cycling services agency, the ticket price including transportation from Bucharest, rent a bike, authorized national guide, meals, accommodation and luggage transfer. Original stories about places are also included in the price! So you can learn the truth about Costesti trovant stones, which are said to increase their size after the rain. Or are petriﬁed eggs of some extinct creatures? Also in Valcea county you may pedal through the narrowest limestone gorges in the country, Bistrita Gorge. Or you can cool oﬀ after riding the famous Maldaresti cule, built by Valcea nobles to defend against Turkish incursions.

Dealu Mare Cycling Route The famous wine region Dealu Mare in Prahova and Buzau county shall become one of Romania´s top destination for cycling tourism. A pilot project has been launched by Carpathian Tourism Cluster Romania, an innovative network which promotes tourism in the area of the Carpathian Mountains. Partners of the Dealu Mare Cycling Route project are Cycling Romania, the tourism development association of Buzau, Monteoru Renaissance, and several municipalities in the Dealu Mare region. The new Dealu Mare Cycling Route passes through the most beautiful parts of the Dealu Mare region, giving cycling tourists an excellent overview of Romanian culinary and wine tradition, culture and nature. Starting from Ghighiu and ending at Ciolanu Monastery, the route runs through the most important vineyards at Seciu, Urlati, Ceptura,

Tohani, Sahateni, Pietroasele and Merei. There are wine tasting opportunities at several Dealu Mare wine cellars. An exclusive culinary adventure is waiting in Buzau, where tourists can participate to a truffle hunting session. Some beautiful monasteries can be visited at Ghighiu, Varbila, Jercalai and Ciolanu. Historical sites (Thracian graves at Naeni, Roman site at Pietroasele), traditional art museums (Bellu mansion in Urlati), sheepfold products (Naeni), enjoying quiet oak forests (Plopu) and spas (salt water at Sarata Monteoru) are also important points of attraction for tourists. The Dealu Mare Cycling Route is 140 km long and it can be covered in five days by people at intermediate level, who have some cycling experience, considering the terrain is hilly and flat as well. The project targets also cycling tourists coming for a day or a weekend from Bucharest or Brasov. The Dealu Mare project contains also the development of cycling maps and the organisation of cycling events and bike competitions to promote the region in and outside of Romania. Starting from 2011 bike trips following the promoted route are organised by assuring bikes, guiding, transport, meals and accommodation. Mircea Crisbasanu, project coordinator and manager of Cycling Romania, thinks that the area of Dealu Mare has several advantages and shows great potential for cycling. It is close to Bucharest, only 60 km away, and the means of reaching Dealu Mare will be considerably eased by the construction of the highway sector Bucharest – Ploiesti. There is very low car traffic along the route and this gives the bikers the chance of entirely admiring the beautiful hilly landscape. The road condition is very good and the climate is excellent for biking since the region is placed along the 45 degrees latitude like Bordeaux and Northern Italia. The “Dealu Mare Cycling Route” project is a pilot project and part of the cycling tourism development strategy of Carpathian Tourism Cluster Romania, which wants to develop and promote sustainable cycling tourism in the Carpathian Mountains area. www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

city news

Going the Distance for Charity

Athénée Palace Hilton and Hilton in the Community Foundation are aiming to go “Around the World in a Day” for Charity this Month Athénée Palace Hilton is inviting the local community to step up and travel “Around the World in a Day” on Sunday, June 26, in Tineretului Park as part of Hilton in the Community Foundation’s annual summer charity challenge. All proceeds raised from this year’s event in Bucharest will be donated to United Way Romania and will support the charity’s projects with long term hospitalized children. The fundraiser in Bucharest is part of a continental wide challenge organized by Hilton in the Community Foundation, the oﬃcial charity of Hilton Worldwide in Europe. Hilton Worldwide team members, charity partners and the public will all be working together on the day in more than 70 hotels in eight countries. They will be collectively aiming to virtually travel the circumference of the Earth – 80,150.32 kilometers - all in aid of local good causes chosen by each hotel. In Bucharest participants will be aiming to cover distance and raise as much sponsorship as possible by organizing a run in Tineretului Park, around the lake. Athénée Palace Hilton is inviting sport lovers to a normal run, a bike run and a creative run, on June 26, starting with 9:00 am. It is for the ﬁrst time that Athénée Palace Hilton Bucharest takes part of this European initiative and the organizers are encouraging everybody to register and participate. “Our community work is an important part of our hospitality philosophy and our team is very excited to be working together to support United Way. We’d welcome anyone who wants to take part in the challenge, so do get in touch if you want to join us on the 26th for an amazing day of summer fun

and exercise,” told us Linda Griﬃn, General Manager of the Athénée Palace Hilton. The event in Bucharest is supported by the Bucharest Running Club and is aimed to be a fun event for friends and families. Registration fee, including an event t-shirt costs just 25 Lei and all net funds raised will be donated to United Way Romania to support

children in need. To register or to ﬁnd out more information please call 021-303-3777 or log onto http://www.hiltonfoundation.org.uk/ ATWD5/Romania_home.htm All participants will be included in a raﬄe organized by Athénée Palace Hilton at the day of the event.

Newly Refurbished Roberto’s Restaurant Opened Athénée Palace Hilton today announced mid-May the finalisation of the renovation works and the re-opening of Roberto’s Restaurant, in homage to pure, simple and authentic Italian cuisine. Inspired by Roberto’s Restaurant at Hilton Amsterdam, the Roberto’s in Bucharest is the hotel’s primary restaurant, a perfect venue for fine dining and exclusive events. With a capacity to host up to 130 people, whilst also offering a more intimate seating option around the fire place, or 10 Bucuresti what, where, when

www.bucurestiwww.ro

even an exclusive private dining room for 14 people, Roberto’s Restaurant is the ideal venue for hotel guests and locals. Guests of Roberto’s will enjoy the delicious Italian cuisine prepared with the fresh ingredients for a truly authentic experience. “It is my pleasure to oﬀer the best of traditional Italian cuisine in a pure, simple, authentic style. Buon Appetito!” said Gabriele Savini, the new Italian executive chef of Athénée Palace Hilton Bucharest. “I look forward to re-introducing Roberto’s to the

Bucharest community. The fine food, stylish design and prime location in the heart of Bucharest will undoubtedly make it a key eatery in the city,” said Linda Griffin, general manager of the hotel. The opening of Roberto’s Restaurant completes the work on the hotel’s ground floor to create an impressive new look with other renovations including the lobby area adjacent to Roberto’s, and last year’s refurbishments of the Colonnade, lobby and Cafe Athénée.

real estate

The Most Successful Real Estate Product What is the most successful real estate product? This is a question that everyone asks these days. We have asked Eduard Uzunov from Regatta, Dragos Dragoteanu from Euroest, Alina Busuioc from WestInvest and Diana Metiu from Diana Metiu International, what are the characteristics for a marketable real estate product, and they made for us the prototype of the most searched for real estate investment nowadays.

What are the best selling apartment types? Bestsellers apartment types are 2 and 3 bedrooms, with an unit cost as small as possible. Bestsellers housing complexes From our point of view (West Invest), best-selling ensembles are the ones already in use: Dana North (Pajura), and Pallady Residence and Pallady Towers.

What are the best sold types of houses? Bestsellers are the individual villas that are located near the capital, with an area exceeding 200 square meters built and 300-500 sq m land, at an average price of 1,000Euro / sq m built (included in the price of the building land). The most wanted villas/houses are located in residential complexes that provide extra facilities then the apartments in the new

What is marketable at the moment?

Homes in the design phase, are they still being bought? Bankruptcies and insolvencies in the residential area have led to freezing of this type of transaction. If a building is not finished at least 80% of the area they are likely close to 0 to be contracted! No one buys today at the drawing board stage due to the lack of real estate law that should guarantee repayment of advances paid if a developer does not finalize the project. Obviously, a complete project has infinitely greater chance to attract serious customers than a project that is presented only on paper or in the construction stage.

2011 Buyers Profile At the moment there are three categories of buyers: A. the undecided buyer, located in expectation, due to decreasing of the price, he is well informed and is continuously looking for opportunities in the best areas and is not rushing at all! B. buyer for necessity, the one who is decided

Today in Bucharest (and surroundings) there are four categories of properties selling: 80% - cheap apartments around 700-800 euro / sq m built, in old buildings, in different locations, especially in crowded neighborhoods (like Drumul Taberii, Titan, Militari, Dristor, etc.), 17% - apartments in buildings constructed after 1990, in central and semi-central position, with doubtful quality and outdated finishing’s, with values ranging between 800 and 1,100 euro / sq m built; 2% - apartments in new residential complexes with modern facilities, (playground for children, fitness, security, etc.), safe and civilized construction, high standards, cost 1,100-1,500 euro / sq m and 1% - exclusive luxury apartments in blocks, very good areas, underground parking, swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi, security + video monitoring, receiving input, related real estate services, with prices 1,500-2,000 euro / sq m.

In what kind of properties is no interest for now? There are not selling the properties that exceed the average market price. Many buyers expect “better times’’... hoping for another fall of the real estate market, and for the prices to go down... and with not to much money, to buy a property.

Characteristics of a marketable real estate product Residential projects that sell best are located near a fast means of transportation, have an above average comfort, civilized area near the park, major streets, shopping centers, etc. In these projects, the main criterion selection is the price per square meter held built area!

residential buildings. A residential complex of homes / villas requires mandatory provision of related services which can not be found in residential complexes of blocks. Such landmarks are vital to attract an offer: the property of a private inside yard, undivided common yard property, indoor pool / outdoor, seating area, play area / entertainment, etc. There are different prices depending on the total area of buildings. As high as it goes, the price per square meter built area should be lower. In any case, to a developed residential price per square m elegantly constructed doesn’t drop below 1,200 euro (including land value of the afferent property).

to buy anything, just to solve this problem! He exclusively searches a property in the budget that he allows it and in the accessible areas. C. the real estate “shark”, is the person with cash who is only looking to buy “alms”. He is the most demanding and he is not buying properties which are not marketable or without a certain perspective.... not even for free!

Characteristics of a successful real estate product Certain buyer for the product, the area to be one of the best, the quality and the price to be argued. www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

tourism

Now is the Time to Google EIAT! Once upon a time a wise man said: Meetings are about solutions, new ideas and the future. And this is how EIAT was born in 2008! What is EIAT? The idea of creating such an event was born as a result of strong initiative for “refreshing” situation in a Serbian academy sector for tourism. Lack of practical knowledge and skilled students was a signal for establishing a new network between Industry and academia. The name itself stands for Education and Industry Advancing Together and represents a brand new and popular international tourism conference. Since it’s establishing, EIAT has been under the Patronage of HRH Crown Prince Alexander II and since its foundation it is regarded as one of top educational events in the region. Also, it received a constant support from Ministry for Economy and Regional Development of the Government of Serbia. EIAT 2011 will offer a combination of educational and cultural activities. During the conference, three different sessions will be held - Novice, Executive and Scientific Track Session. As a side event and excellent tool for emerging destinations promotion, since 2009, EIAT is building Future Leaders Forum South East Europe in a cooperation with IMEX (World Largest Meetings Exhibition) and MPI (World Largest Meetings Association).

12 Bucuresti what, where, when

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In recent years, EIAT network were constantly growing and today, it has 25 diﬀerent tourism Faculties from 11 countries in the region of South East Europe. During the conference in September as an added value, developing of RTI (Regional

EIAT IN NUMBERS

• The 4th International tourism conference • Over 10 worldwide industry professionals each year • 11 countries • 20 worldwide recognized lecturers Tourism Initiative) will be promoted as a modern and new association in the region. This year, Faculties from Romania will also become partners on this project.

www.eiat-conference.org

14 Bucuresti what, where, when

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Bucuresti what, where, when

city life • ESSENTIAL INFORMATION • HOTELS • MUSEUMS • SHOW BIZ • CULTURAL INSTITUTES • MUST SEE IN BUCHAREST ESSENTIAL INFORMATION POLICE - Like all cities, Bucharest too has dangerous spots; however, it is considered a safe city in European terms. The city center is usually safe, but at night be careful in parks and peripheral areas. General Emergency number: 112 for Police, Ambulance & Fire Department. 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 The payphones in the city are phone card operated. When calling into Romania, you need to dial 004, then the eight digit subscr ber’s number - dropping the first 0 of the area code. 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), S biu (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), TRANSLATORS Translingua: 306, Calea Mosilor, Bl. 56A, Ap. 11 Ph.: 021-211-70-46, 0722-250-908; Fax: 021-211-70-46. www.translingua.ro Prosper - ASE Language Centre: 2, Calea Grivitei St., 2nd floor, room 4211; Ph./Fax: 021-21178-00. www.prosper.ro Talk Partners: Ph.: 0771-540-479; 0724-353-215; www.talkpartners.ro. Central European Translation: 19, Unirii Blvd., Bl. 4B, 1st Entr., 4th floor, Ap.13; Ph.: 021-336-28-25; Fax: 021-336-27-24. www.cet.ro Serious Business: 3, Corneliu Coposu Blvd.Bl. 101, 1st floor, Apt. 17. Ph.: 021-321-46-41; Fax: 021-320-33-13. www.serious.ro POST OFFICES The Central Post Office is at 10, Matei Millo St. (near the Phone Company building on Calea Victoriei). www.posta-romana.ro Open: 7:30-20:00. Closed Sunday. MONEY Money can be exchanged at banks, hotels and private offices (Casa de schimb valutar). There can be major differences in rates, especially between the banks and the private exchange offices. Changing money in the street is illegal and inadvisable. Bank notes are in the following denominations: LEI 1,00; 5,00; 10,00; 50,00; 100,00 and 500;00. Coins: Bani 1; 5; 10; 50. Banks are open weekdays from 8:30 to noon and from 14:00 to 16:00.

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Rely on these pages for guidance on where to go and what to do during your visit. The letter/number combinations at the end of listings are coordinates for the map (back cover). For subway map see also the back cover. Locations marked in a red square are situated in Old Town.

VISAS EU and American citizens with a valid passport can visit for 90 days with no visa requirement. All other visitors will need a visa. Visas should be obtained prior to the arrival, from Romanian Diplomatic Missions’ Offices in your country. A list of the nations for which a Romanian visa is required can be found at www.mae.ro. Three day transit visa: US$ 15/25. One entry visa: US$ 25, multiple entry visa US$ 60. For a few exceptional situations a 10-day special visa can be obtained at customs, entering Romania. For visa extensions and other information go to the passport office at 29, Nicolae Iorga St., near Piata Romana. PRIVATE CLINICS & EMERGENCY HOSPITALS Biomedica International: 42 Eminescu St., Ph. 021-230-8001 Emergency Clinic Hospital: 8, Calea Floreasca, Ph. 021-317-0171; 021-317-0121 Medico Clinique: 9, Visarion St., Ph. 021-650-7060, 021-315-5426 /27 www.medico.ro Medicover Medical: Centre96, Calea Plevnei, Ph. 021-310-4410 Ophthalmology Emergency Clinic Hospital: 1, Piata Lahovari, Ph. 021-319-2753 Regina Maria: • 57, Unirii Blvd, Ph. 021-3271188 ; • 2, Staicovici St, Opera Center. Ph 021-412-0110 • 12, G Enescu St, Ph. 021-316-5876/77/78

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

NON-STOP PHARMACIES There is no problem with finding a pharmacy in your neighborhood, no matter where you are in Bucharest. Here are some pharmacies with nonstop service: Farmacia Verde: 15, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph. 021-230-1451 Sensiblu: 65, Calea Dorobantlor, Ph. 021-211-1127, Farmadex: 19, N Titulescu Blvd, Ph. 0744-650-078 MedFARM: 34, I.C. Bratianu Blvd, Ph. 021-315-2309 DENTISTS Alpha Dent Company: 300, Calea Calarasilor St., Ph. 021-321-3099 Dent Elysee: 51, J.L. Calderon St., Ph. 021-312-3300; 0723-380-498 Dent Estet: • 15, Aviatorilor Blvd. Ph. 021-2221108 • 7, G. Alexandrescu St, Ph. 0723-602-020 HEALTH CLUBS & SPA 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 Fit & Fun Club: The club is complimentary to all hotel guests and offers the possibility to relax

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. Ph.: 021-3112779; 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. 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.: 0723-691544 Pro Estetica Sana Bali Spa: 349, Stadionului St., Cornu - Prahova County; Ph./fax: 0244-367053. Open: 8:00 - 22:00 DRIVING IN ROMANIA The legal speed limit is 50 km/hr in cities, 90 km/ hr outside the city and 120 km/hr on highways. Driving above these limits will result in fines with the poss bility 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 proh bited. 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.: 0727-644644 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.: 021-2014534; 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- 3129857; 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 AIRPORTS Henri Coanda International Airport: – for international and domestic flights. Ph.: Switchboard: (+4021) 204-1000 Customs: ext.: 1514 ; Lost luggage: ext. 1043 Airport Police: ext.: 1523 Aurel Vlaicu Airport (Baneasa): – for domestic and international flights. Ph.: (+4021) 9371, 021-232-0020 ext.: 131.

Transportation to/from Henri Coanda Airport: RATB: City Bus #783 Connecting Otopeni to the City center. Important stops: Pullman Hotel, Piata Victoriei, Piata Romana, Piata Unirii. TAXI SERVICES Airport taxis are available at the arrivals hall but they may charge you 3 to 10 times as much as a Bucharest regular taxi. Euro Fly Taxi is the official airport taxi, and they are queued outside Henri Coanda Airrivals terminal. If not, call 9440. The average price from Haenri Coanda Airport to Bucharest: 15 Euros. CITY TAXI SERVICES You can olso call a city taxi by phoning one of these numbers: 9427, 9439, 9451, 9425, 9435, 9444, 9422. Prices vary from one taxi company to another. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Relatively safe and efficient, Bucharest’s public transport system covers the entire city with buses, tramways, trolleys and metro (subway) services, operating from 5 a.m. to midnight. 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 3.00 for two-fare pass, LEI 10,00 for ten-fare pass, LEI 6,00 for one-day pass, LEI 27,00 - for a 62 fare passcard. SHOW BIZ Concerts usually start around 6 pm except for Opera and Musical Comedy matinees which start around 11 am. The Music University of Bucharest presents mostly classic recitals which are usually free of charge. The Opera has an extensive repertoire and enjoys international renown. The Athenaeum hosts concerts featuring the Romanian National and Inter-national Philharmonic Orchestras. The Romanian Radio Society organizes concerts in its two halls starting at 7 pm; Generally, individual tickets for opera shows and classic music concerts range between 5 - 15 RON. In Bucharest, cinemas change program every Friday. Movies are shown in their original language with Romanian subtitles. The majority of cinemas show American movies, but one can also find European movies at the French Institute Cinema or the Cinemateca. The row and set number is indicated on your ticket or separate stub. Ticket prices vary from Lei 5 - 35 RON OPERA & CONCERTS Atheneul Roman: 6D 1, Franklin St. Ph.: 021-315-6875; 021-315-2567 National Opera: 7D 70-72, Mihail Kogalniceanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-6980; 021-311-5254 Sala Radio (Romanian Radio Society): 6C 60-64, G-ral Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-303-1153; 021-314-7770. Sala Palatului: 6D 1, Cretulescu St. Ph.: 021-315-9710 / ext. 761; 021-315-7372 Teatrul National de Opereta “Ion Dacian”: 7D 2, N. Balcescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-313-6348. George Enescu Philharmonic: 6D 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. www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

National Museum of Art of Romania: 6D 49-53, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021-314 81 19; 021-313 30 30. Visiting hours: WednesdaySunday 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: 5C 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 exh bits of houses, 99 auxiliary buildings, churches and traditional techniques and utensils (water and windmills, oil presses, etc) from all of the country’s provinces. Folkloric art collections and souvenirs. Art Collections Museum: 6D 111, Calea Victoriei. Ph: 021- 211.17.49, 021- 212.96.41. Visiting hours: Saturday- Wednesday 11.00 –19.00 (May-September); 10.00 – 18.00 (October-April); Closed: Thursday, Friday, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 25th December.

Founded in 1978, the museum houses previously private collections that have been donated to the state in the course of time. They mirror accurately the development of Romanian art in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries giving a fair view of the history of taste and of the economic power of native Romanian collectors. European as well as Oriental art works are also present The Museum of Bucharest City: 7D 2, I.C. Bratianu Blvd. Ph: 021-31025.62, 021-3156858. Open daily 10.00 -18.00, Closed: Monday and Tuesday. In the heart of the Capital, very close to the University Square, the outstanding building of Sutu Palace, a monument dating back to 1838, hosts this Museum of Bucharest City’s History. You will find here collections of archaeology, numismatics, photography, maps, documents, paintings, drawings, funeral stones, coats of arms, furniture, uniforms, flags, costumes and many others. “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.

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National Cotroceni Museum: 7A 1, Geniului Blvd. Ph. 021-430-4485. Open daily 9:30–17:30 ; closed Monday.Reconstructing the atmosphere of the Mediavale Cotroceni Church (17th Century) and the old Royal Residence of King Ferdinand, Cotroceni Museum is a valuable architectural and historic site. Works of art for sale. The Observatory: 5D 21, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Ph.: 021-212-9644. It includes both a science fiction and an astronomic club. This small museum of Romanian history of astronomy is worth visiting. CINEMAS Cinema City: 4, Vasile Milea Blvd., AFI Palace Cotroceni Ph.: 021-407-0000 Cinema City Sun Plaza: 391, Calea Vacaresti, Sun Plaza Ph.: 021-386-0600 CinemaPro: 3, Ion Ghica St. Ph.: 031-824-1360 Cinemateca: • Eforie Hall: 2, Eforie St. Ph.: 021313-0483; • Union Hall: 21, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021-313-9289 Corso: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-1334 Cityplex: City Mall, 3rd floor; 2, Oltenitei Ave. Ph.: 021-319-8226 Europa: 127, Calea Mosilor Ph.: 021-314-2714 Festival: 34, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-315-6384 French Institute “Elvira Popescu”: 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9930/0224 Glendale Studio: 9, Cotroceni Ave. Ph.: 021-316-3286 Gloria: 6, Bucovina St. Ph.: 021-324-4675 Hollywood Multiplex: 55-59, Calea Vitan, Bucuresti Mall Ph.: 021-327-7020/22 The Light Cinema: 151-171, Progresului Ave., Liberty Center Ph.: 021-369-9740, 021-369-9797 Movieplex Cinema: 26, Timisoara Blvd., Plaza Romania; Ph.: 021-407-8300 NCRR: 3, Kiseleff Ave., the National Museum of Romanian Peasant Ph.: 021-317-9660 Patria: 12-14, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-9266 Scala: 2-4, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-6708 Studio: 29, Magheru Blvd. Ph.: 021-316-5526 CULTURAL INSTITUTES Learning French, English, Italian or German is what you wanted for so long but you never had the time to do it? The cultural institutes in Bucha-

rest have language classes to suite your learning appetite. Many of them also have impotrant libraries and mediateques highlighting the culture they represent. Subscriptions to the cultural centres’ libraries can vary from 10 to 30 Euro. British Council: 6D 14, Calea Dorobantilor, Ph. 021-307-9600. Fax: 021-307-9601/01 Open 09-19, Sat. 09-13, Sun closed. Goethe Institut (German Institute): 6C 8-10, Tudor Arghezi St. Ph. 021-311-97-62; 021311-97-82. Fax: 021-312-05-85; Open Mon - Thu 10-18, Fri 10-15. Free lending l brary program. German language courses available. L’Institut Français (French Institute): 6E 77, Dacia Blvd. Ph. 021-316-38-36;

JUNE 2011

Supplement of Bucuresti what, where, when magazine

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 go to page D

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Bucuresti what, where, when

relaxation

Copenhagen, Geneva or Bucharest An Expat’s Point of View

lthough 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 B Bucuresti what, where, when

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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

assage 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

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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 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 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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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): 6E 12, M. Serghiescu St. Ph. 021-210-27-37; 021210-47-27; 0921-210-6777; Fax: 021-210-77-67; Open Mon-Fri 09-19. Sat & Sun closed. Library & Spanish language courses available BUCHAREST JEWISH COMMUNITY 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 cal ber 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

Bucharest Unirii Square Hotel ★★★★ 8F : 3A, Nerva Traian St. ph: +40-21-200-6270; fax: +40-21-200-6273 Capitol ★★★ 7D : 29, Calea Victoriei ph: +40-21-313-9440; fax: +40-21-312-4169 Carol Parc Hotel ★★★★★ 9D : 23-25, Aleea Suter , ph: +40-21-336-3377; fax: +40-21-336-3736 Caro ★★★ 2E : 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 ★★★★ 4C : 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 ★★★ 7D : 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 Crowne Plaza ★★★★★ 2A : 1, Poligrafiei St. ph.: +40-21-224-0034; fax: +40-21-318-1302

Dalin ★★★ : 70-72, Marasesti Blvd. ph.: +40-21-335-6306; fax: +40-21-336-6284 Dalin Center ★★★ : 33A, Soseaua Stefan cel Mare. ph.: +40-21-211-0070 Duke ★★★ 6D : 33, Dacia Blvd, ph: +40-21-317-4186/87/88; fax: +40-21-317-4189. Epoque 6C : 17C, Aurora Alley ph: +40-21-312-3232; Euro Hotels International ★★★ 6B : 4, Ghe. Polizu St. ph: +40-21-316-88-39; fax: +40-21-316-8360 Euro Hotels Int’l Triumf ★★★ 4B : 32-34, Maresal Averescu Blvd. ph: +40-21-224-5496; fax: +40-21-224-5554 Erbas ★★★ 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 Golden Tulip Times ★★★★ 7G : 19, Decebal Blvd. ph: +40-21-316 6516; fax: +40-21-3166517 Graffiti ★★★ 5D : 25 Albac St., ph./fax: +40-21-231-6006.

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 ★★★ 6D : 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 ★★★★★ : 6D 1-3, Episcopiei St. ph: +40-21-303-3777; fax: +40-21-315-2121. Banat ★★ 7E : 5, Piata Rosetti ph: +40-21-312-5784; fax: +40-21-312-6547. Best Western Plus Mari Vila Bucharest ★★★★: 44-50, Balta Doamnei St. ph: 021-5666666; fax: 021-568-8888 www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

MUST SEE IN BUCHAREST THE COTROCENI PALACE

It 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

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.

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

It 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)

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Grand Hotel Continental ★★★★★ 7D : 56, Calea Victoriei ph.: +40-372-010-300; fax: +40-372-010 301. Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel ★★★★★ 6D : 5-7, Calea Dorobantilor, ph: +40-21-201-5000; fax: +40-21-201-1888. Hello Hotels ★★ 6B : 143, Calea Grivitei, ph: +40-372-121-800; fax: +40-372-121-801 reservation: +40-372-716-464 Herastrau ★★★ 2C : 7-9, Soseaua Nordului, ph: +40-21-232-9666; fax: +40-21-203-9923. Ibis Gara De Nord ★★★ 6B : 143, Calea Grivitei, ph: +40-21-300-9100; fax: +40-21-300-9098. reservation: +40-21-401-1011 Ibis Palatul Parlamentului ★★★ 8C : 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 ★★★★★ 8B : 90, Calea 13 Septembrie, ph: +40-21-403-1012; fax: +40-21-403-1001. Lev Or ★★★ 6C : 25, Occidentului St., ph: +40-21-210-1274; fax: +40-21-319-0910. Marshal ★★★★ 7E : 2, Dr. Emanoil Bacaloglu St. ph: +40-21-314-0880; fax: +40-21-314-0888 Minerva ★★★★ 5C : 2-4, Gh. Manu St., ph: +40-21-311-1555; fax: +40-21-312-3963 Monte Nelly ★★★★ 6E : 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 ★★★★ 8E : 21, Mircea Voda Blvd., ph: +40-21-300-0545; fax: +40-21-317-9154 Opera ★★★ 7D : 37, Brezoianu St., ph: +40-21-312-4857; fax: +40-21-312-4858. Parliament ★★★★ 8C : 106, Izvor St., ph: +40-21-411-9990; fax: +40-21-411-9991 Pullman ★★★★ 2B : 10, Piata Montreal, ph: +40-21-318-3000; fax +40-21-316-2550 Radisson Blu ★★★★★ 6D : 63-81, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-311-9000; fax: +40-21-313-9000 Ramada Bucharest Parc ★★★★ 2A : 3-5 Poligrafiei Blvd. ph: +40-21-549-2000; fax: +40-21-549-2330 Ramada Hotel & Suites Bucharest North ★★★★ 2C : 44A, Daniel Danielopolu St., ph: +40-21-233-5000; fax: +40-21-233-5001; Ramada Majestic Bucharest ★★★★ 7D : 38-40, Calea Victoriei, ph: +40-21-310-2715, +40-21-312-1967; fax: +40-21-310-2799 Ramada Plaza Bucharest ★★★★ 2A : 3-5, Poligrafiei Blvd., ph: +40-21-549-3000; fax: +40-21-549-3001 Razvan ★★★ 7F : 159, Calea Calarasilor, ph: +40-21-320-0173 / 83; fax: +40-21-322-0811

Rembrandt ★★★ 7D : 11 Smardan St., ph/fax: +40-21-313-9315, +40-21-313-9316. Residence Arc de Triomphe ★★★★ 4B : 19, Clucerului St. ph. 021-223-1978; 037-215-0700 Residence Domenii Plaza ★★★★ 3B : 33, Alexandru Constantinescu St. ph. 021-224-5044, 037-215-0600 Residence Club Palace ★★★★ : 367B, Odaii Road, ph. 021-315-1666 Rin Airport ★★★★ : 255A, Calea Bucuresti, ph: +40-21-350-4110/16; fax: +40-21-350-4110-16 Rin Central ★★★ 7F : 55, Traian St. ph.: +40-21-308-3153/4; fax: +40-21-308-3155. Rin Grand ★★★★ : Soseaua Vitan-Barzesti ph: +40-31-106-1111; 0731-111-000 Samaa ★★★ 3A : 319C, Ion Mihalache Blvd., ph: +40-21-224-0282/83; fax: +40-21-224-0284 Siqua ★★★ 7C : 59A, Calea Plevnei, ph: +40-21-319-5160; 319-5161; fax: +40-21-319-5162 Starlight Suite Hotels ★★★★ 5D : 89-97, Grigore Alexandrescu St., ph/fax: +40-21-211-3413 / 14 Tempo ★★★ 7E : 19, Armand Calinescu St., ph: +40-21-310-1216; fax: +40-21-310-1241 Trianon ★★★: 9, Grigore Cobalcescu St., ph: +40-21-311-4927; fax: +40-21-316-2281 Venezia ★★★★ 7C : 2, Pompiliu Eliade St., ph: +40-21-310-6878; fax: +40-21-310-6873 Z Executive Boutique Hotel ★★★★ 7D : 4, Ion Nistor St., ph: +40-31-140-0200

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Bucuresti what, where, when

MUST SEE IN BUCHAREST 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

The museum 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 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. 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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business • INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS • LOCAL INSTITUTIONS • BUSINESS CONNECTIONS • AIRLINES • EMBASSIES • BANKS

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS Delegation Of The European Union: 31, Vasile Lascar St. Ph.: 021-203-5400; Fax: 021-316-8808, www.infoeuropa.ro European Bank For Reconstruction EBRD: Metropolis Center, 56-60, Iancu de Hunedoara 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.: 021-201-0311; 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, 021-4141111; Fax: 021- 315-8942; www.senat.ro Government of Romania: 1, Victoriei Sq. Ph.: 021-314-3400; 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: 021-202-5108; 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: 021-3122509; www.mfinante.gov.ro Ministry of Justice: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037204-1999; www.just.ro Ministry of Labor, Family and Social Protection: 2-4, Dem I. Dobrescu St. Ph.: 021-3136267, 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: 021-313-8869; 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 Sports: 28-30, Gen Berthelot St. Ph.: 021-4056200/6300; www.edu.ro Ministry of Regional Development and Tourism: 17, Apolodor St. Ph.: 037-211-1409/43; www.mdrt.ro

Ministry of Health: 1-3, Cristian Popisteanu Entr. 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.: 021-305-5500/50/55; www.pmb.ro • Sector 1: 7-9, Banu Manta Blvd. temporary moved to 9-13, Bucuresti-Ploiesti Ave. Ph.: 021319-1013/14/15/16/17; 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.: 021-318-0323/24/25/26/27/28/29; www.sector3primarie.ro • Sector 4: 6-16, George Cosbuc Blvd. Ph.: 021-335-9230; www.ps4.ro • Sector 5: 29-31, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-2838/4318; www.sector5.ro • Sector 6: 147-149, Calea Plevnei Ph.: 021-318-0147, 021529-8498; Fax: 021-318-0152; www.primarie6.ro MOVING COMPANIES AGS Bucharest: 9, Pipera St., entr. 2, 2E Bld., 3rd floor, apt. 11. Ph.: 021-201-17-91; Fax: 021232-52-89; www.ags-worldwide-movers.com Allied Pickfords: 29,Topraisar St. Ph.: 021-221-95-46; Fax: 021-221-94-42. www.alliedintl.com Corstjens Bucharest: 7-9, Intrarea Gherghitei Ph.: 021-240-37-02; Fax: 021-240-37-03. www.corstjens.com De Groot IRS: 20, Parangului St.

www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

Ph.: 021-224-25-63; Fax: 021-668-64-25. www. degroot.ro Orbit Worldwide Movers: T98, T370 Bucuresti Urziceni, Afumati, Ilfov; Ph.: 021-350-15-00; Fax: 021-350-15-01. www.beinoglou.gr FOREIGN TRADE CHAMBERS The American Chamber Of Commerce: Union Int’l Center, 11, Ion Campineanu St. Ph.: 021312-4834; Fax: 021-312-4851; www.amcham.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:021-222-1932; 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.: 021-310-6801/02; 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. 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 L bere 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; 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

Romtelecom: 3-5, Presei Libere Sq. Ph.: 021-408-8068; 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 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, Mark Twain International School: 25B, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Ph.0724-000-900; 021-267-8912,

LAWYERS Mazars, Duncea, Stefanescu & Associates: 31B, Econom Cezarescu St. Ph.: 031-229-2600; Fax: 031-229-2601; www.mazars.ro Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen: Bucharest Business Park, Entr. A, 4th floor, 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: 021-312-1009; www.pachiu.com Rubin Meyer Doru & Trandafir Attorneys At Law Affiliated With Herzfeld & Rubin, P.C.: 7, Putu cu Plopi St. Ph.: 021-311-1460; Fax: 021-311-1465. www.hr.ro Salans-Moore, Vartires & Associates: 28-C, 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 COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Cosmote: America House, 4-8., N. Titulescu Blvd. Ph.: 021-404-1234, 0766-121-234; Fax: 021-413-7530; www.cosmote.ro Orange Romania S.A.: Europe House, 51-53, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. Ph.: 021-203-3030, 021203-3333; Fax: 2021-03-3599; www.orange.ro RCS & RDS: 73-75, Dr. N. Staicovici St. Ph.: 031-400-4414, 031-400-4600; Fax: 031-400-6060

24 Bucuresti what, where, when

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Lauder Reut Kindergartden: 15, Barsch Iuliu St. 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 Cargus International: 1, Bucuresti Ave., Otopeni Ph.: 021-9330, 021-933-0000; Fax: 021-351-0200; 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

EMBASSIES Albania Algeria Argentine Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaidjan Belarus Belgium Brazil Bulgaria Canada Chile China Congo Croatia Cuba Czech Republic Denmark Egypt Finland France Germany Great Britain Greece Hungary India Indonesia Irak Iran Ireland Israel Italy Japan Jordan Korea/N Korea/S Lebanon Macedonia Malaysia Mexico Moldova Morocco Netherlands Norway Nigeria Pakistan Palestine Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Quatar Russia Serbia & Muntenegro Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland Syria S Africa Thailand Turkey Ukraine Uruguay USA Vatican Venezuela Vietnam

021-211-9829 021-211-5150 021-312-1739 021-319-7604 021-320-9802 021-210-4354 021-233-2484 021-223-1776 021-210-2969 021-230-7825 021-230-2159 021-307-5000 021-312-7311 021-232-8858 0740-808-009 021-313-0369 021-211-8795 021-303-9230 021-300-0800 021-211-0938 021-230-7545 021-303-1000 021-202-9830 021-201-7200 021-209-4170 021-311-0062 021-211-5451 021-312-0742 021-233-9008 021-312-0493 021-310-2131 021-318-9415 021-305-2100 021-319-1890 021-210-4705 021-232-9665 021-230-7198 021-230-0302 021-210-0880 021-211-3801 021-210-4577 021-230-0474 021-317-4124 021-208-6030 021-210-0274 021-312-8685 021-318-7873 021-310-7422 021-223-1253 021-224-8070 021-308-2200 021-230-4117 021-233-9053 021-222-3170 021-211-9872 021-300-6100 021-300-2780 021-233-9190 021-406-7100 021-206-1600 021-319-2467 021-313-3725 021-311-0031 021-210-0407 021-211-6986 021-222-5874 021-200-3300 021-313-9490 021-222-5874 021-311-1604

BANKS Alpha Bank: Neocity Tower. 237 B, Calea Dorobantilor, 3rd9th floors; Ph.: 021-209-2100; Banc Post: 6 - 6A, Calea Vitan; Ph.: 0800-110-200, 021-302-0789 Banca Comerciala Romana: 5, Regina Elisabeta Blvd. Ph.: 0801-0801-22; 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 Intesa Sanpaolo Bank: 11-15, Tipografilor St., S Park B3-B4 5th floor Ph.: 021-405-3600; Fax: 021-405-3606 Libra Bank: 4-6, Semilunei St. Ph.: 021-208-8000; Fax: 021-230-6565 Marfin Bank Romania: 90-92, Emanoil Porumbaru St. Ph.: 021-206-4230; Fax: 021-206-4280 Otp Bank Romania: 66-68, Buzesti St. Ph.: 021-307-5700; Fax: 021-307-5730 Piraeus Bank Romania: 29-31, N. Titulescu Ave., Ph.: 021-303-6969, 0800-801-802; Fax: 021-303-6968 Raiffeisen Bank: 15, Charles de Gaulle Sq. Ph.: 021-306-1000; Fax: 021-230-0700

Royal Bank Of Scotland: 10, Montreal Sq., World Trade Center-E, 2nd floor Ph.: 021-202-0400, Unicredit Tiriac Bank: 23-25, Ghetarilor St. Ph.: 021-200-2000 Volksbank Romania: 171-173, Mihai Bravu Ave. Ph.: 021-209-4400 AIRLINES Aegean: Henri Coanda Int’l Airport. Ph: 021-204-19-68; 021-201-45-50 Aeroflot 5C : 5, Gheorghe Manu St. Ph: 021-315-03-14; Fax: 021-312-51-52 Air France 6C : 85, Calea Buzesti, 2nd floor. Ph: 021-206-92-00; Fax: 021-206-92-11. Air Malta (GSA) 1B : Baneasa Int’l Airport, 14-22, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti. call centre: Ph: 021-201-1852/2, Fax: 021-201-18-53 Air Moldova 7E : 3, Toma Caragiu St. Ph: 021-312-08-22 Alitalia 6D : 1, Louis Blanc St. Ph: 021-318-76-65; 021-318-76-61. Austrian Airlines 6D : 9A, Aleea Alexandru. Ph: 021-204-45-60; Fax: 021-204-84-28 Balkan Air (GSA) 6D : 5-7, Eugen Carada St. Ph: 021-314-39-45; Fax:021-314-39-49 British Airways 7D : 28-30, Academiei St. Excelsior Centre, 9th floor Ph: 021-303-22-22; Fax: 021-303-22-11. CSA 7D : 27, Uruguai St., 1st floor. Ph: 021-223-32-05; Fax: 021-223-08-84. Delta Airlines (GSA) 5C : 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 KLM: 85, Buzesti St., 2nd floor, Ph: 021-206-9222; 0800-070377; Fax: 021-206-9211. Lufthansa 6D : 9A, Aleea Alexandru, Ph: 021-204-84-10. Fax: 021-204-84-24. Lot 6D : 41, Magheru Blvd., Ph: 021-314-1096; 021-317-4228 Malev 9G : PGV Tower 6-6A, Calea Vitan, Ph: 021-326-8072/73; Fax: 021-326-8074. Olympic Airlines 6D : 6, Anastase Simu St., 1st floor, ap. 18; Ph.: 021-316-6360; Fax: 021-316-6365.

Quatar Airways: 202, Calea Victoriei; Ph.: 021-212-5020, Fax: 021-312-6860. Regional Air Services Air Taxi: Ph.: 0745-058-654; 0742-055-095 SAS Scandinavian Airlines (GSA) 5C : 57, Dr. Iacob Felix St, 1st floor; Ph: 031-403-5040; Fax: 031-403-5049 SN Brussels Airlines (GSA) 1B : Baneasa Int’l Airport; Call centre: 021-201-1851/2; Fax: 021-201-1853. Swiss Int’l Air Lines: Ph: 021-312-0238; Fax: 021-212-5774 Tarom: 17, Splaiul Independentei. Ph: 021-303-4400; Fax: 021-316-44-44. Turkish Airlines: 35A, Balcescu Blvd., Ph: 021-311-3210. Private Flights Eurojet Aviation: 61-63, Ion Ionescu de la Brad Blvd., suites 1&2. Ph: 0374-222-777, 0374-222-888, Fax: 021-2693-779 Ion Tiriac Air: Sos BucurestiPloiesti, Km 16,5; Ph: 021-230-6081, Fax: 021-204-2224 www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

stores & more more… • SHOPPING CENTERS • COSMETICS & BEAUTY • FASHION • JEWELRY • FOOTWEAR • SPORTS & TRAVEL and more... SHOPPING CENTERS One can easily find ready-to-wear clothes, shoes, accessories, jewelry, watches, sportswear, lingerie, perfumes and gifts. Food courts can often be found on or near the premises. These shopping centers might be similar in many ways with those that you are already familiar with. Palace Cotroceni 7A : 4, Vasile Milea Blvd. Baneasa Shopping City : 42D, Sos. Bucuresti-Ploiesti Bucuresti Mall 8F : 55-59, Calea Vitan Carrefour Militari Commercial Gallery: Autostrada Buc-Pitesti, km 11/12 City Mall: 2, Sos.Oltenitei. Cocor Store 7D : 29-33, I.C. Bratianu Blvd. Commercial Center Feeria: 44A, Sos. Bucuresti Ploiesti

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. Locations marked in a dark blue square are situated in Old Town.

Commercial Center Orhideea 6A : 210 - 210 B, Spl. Independentei Esplanada Shopping Center: 20, Sos. Vergului. Grand Arena Mall: 12 Metalurgiei Blvd.. Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery 8B : 90, Calea 13 Septembrie JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel Jolie Ville Galleria: 103 Bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. Liberty Center 9C : 151-171, Progresului St. Mario Plaza Shopping Center 4D : 172, Calea Dorobantilor Militari Shopping: 546-560 Iuliu Maniu Blvd. Plaza Romania: 26, Timisoara Blvd. Rin Grand Hotel Shopping Gallery: 7 D, Vitan-Barzesti. Unirea Shopping Center 6D : 1, Unirii Square

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

World Trade Plaza 3B : 10, Montreal Sq. CASH & CARRY Metro: • Militari • Baneasa • Berceni • Voluntari Selgros: • Pantelimon, 90, Biruintei Blvd; • Baneasa, 55-65, BucurestiPloiesti • Berceni, 92-108, Turnu Magurele St. HIPERMARKETS Auchan: 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd. Carrefour: • Militari, Autostrada Buc-Pitesti, km11/12. • Colentina, Soseaua Colentina 426 - 426A; • Orhideea, 210, Splaiul Independentei, • Baneasa - Feeria, 44A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti • Unirii, 2, Corneliu Coposu Blvd. Cora: • Lujerului, 19, Iuliu Maniu Blvd. • Pantelimon, 20, Sos. Vergului Billa: • 102-104, Barbu Vacarescu St. • 23, Brasov St. • 24, Postavaru St. Ikea: 42A, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti XXL: 38-40, Soseaua Fundeni DEPARTMENT STORES Old department stores in Bucharest are in a transition period. Besides specialized departments, it is not unusual to find a large number of small private “Turkish-bazaar” type stands inside. Crowded but convenient because of their diversity, the Bucharest department stores offer low- to mid- sometimes even highquality products. Galeriile Victoria: 17, Calea Victoriei Bucur Obor: 2, Soseaua Colentina

26 Bucuresti what, where, when

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Beauty Shop: • 8F Bucuresti Mall • 6D 27-33, Magheru Blvd. • 26, Timisoara Blvd. - Plaza Romania Sephora: Orhideea Shopping Center Clinique 6D : 100, Calea Victoriei Estee Lauder 7D : 100, Calea Victoriei Ina Center: • 7A Afi Palace Cotroceni • 7D 27, I Campineanu St. • 6D 14-16, CA Rosetti St. • 3B WTC Galleries • 6A Orhideea Shopping Center • Esplanada Shopping Center • 103, Erou Iancu Nicolae St. - Jolie Ville • Cora Lujerului • 7A Afi Palace Cotroceni Marionnaud: • 7A Afi Palace Cotroceni Privilege: • 4D 172, Calea Dorobantilor • Mario Plaza Shopping Center • 8E Unirea Shopping Center • Carrefour Militari Gallery, • Carrefour Colentina Gallery, • Selgros Baneasa • Selgros Berceni, • Selgros Pantelimon • 7A Afi Palace Cotroceni . FASHION Bliss 7D : Valentino, Louis Feraud, Calvin Klein, Lorenzini; 23, Calea Victoriei Bershka: Baneasa Shopping City Bray Suite Anthology: Bucuresti Mall C & A: Fashion for Men and Women. • Militari Shopping • 7A Afi Palace Cotroceni 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 • 5C 40, Lascar Catargiu Blvd. • 8B Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery

Canali 4D : 196, Calea Dorobantilor Elegance Boutique 8B : Classic ladies look, warm textures, garments, leather accessories & shoes, art jewellery - 63-81, Calea Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel, entrance from George Enescu St. Ermenegildo Zegna - Flagshipstore 6D : Ermenegildo Zegna, Z Zegna, Zegna Sport 63-81, Calea Victoriei Gant: • 7D 52, Calea Victoriei • Bucuresti Mall • Baneasa Shopping City Guess 6D : 87-89, Calea Victoriei Jkristensen Store 6D - 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 Kenvelo: Bucuresti Mall Lancel: Feeria Shopping Center La Perla 6D : 122, Calea Victoriei L’Armoire 5C - 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. Louis Vuitton 8B : 90,Calea 13 Septembrie (Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery)

Mengotti 7D : Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Etro, Fendi, Burberry, Neil Barrett, Moncler, Valentino, Marni, DVF, Parosh, Zagliani, By-The - 48-50, Calea Victoriei 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 4C : 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: 0748-544-911. Opened daily from 12:00 until late in the night. Motivi: • Baneasa Shopping City • 8F Bucuresti Mall • Plaza Romania Nautica: • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua Bucuresti-Ploiesti • Fashion House Outlet Centre, West Park, A1 Bucuresti-Pitesti, km 13 No 36 – Seroussi: Seroussi, Pierre Cardin - • 8F Bucuresti Mall, • 7D Cocor Store Pal Zileri 6D : 63-81, Calea Victoriei Peek & Cloppenburg: Armani Collezioni, Hugo Boss, Vogue, Burberry, Lagerfeld, Calvin Klein Jeans, DKNY Jeans • Baneasa Shopping City Pull & Bear: • Baneasa Shopping City River Woods: • 6A Orhideea Shopping Center • 4D Mario Plaza Shopping Center. Steilmann: • 6D 1-5, Magheru Blvd • Plaza Romania • 8F Bucuresti Mall Terzoatto 3B : Italian Fashion. 172, Calea Dorobantilor Timberland: • Baneasa Shopping City - 42D, Soseaua BucurestiPloiesti • Fashion House Outlet Centre, West Park, A1 BucurestiPitesti, km 13 Zara: • Baneasa Shopping City • Plaza Romania FASHION FOR KIDS Z: • 6D 112, Calea Victoriei • 8F Bucuresti Mall, 1st floor • 6A Orhideea Shopping Center • 8D Unirea Shopping Center

Specialized men’s apparel • 6D 118, Calea Victoriei • 7A Afi Palace Cotroceni Mango: • 8F Bucuresti Mall • Plaza Romania Marella 7D : 21-23,Calea Victoriei Mariella Burani 7D : 21-23, Calea Victoriei Marks & Spencer: • 7D Bucuresti Mall • Orhideea Shopping Center MaxMara 6D : 122 A, Calea Victoriei www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

JEWELRY Gold jewelry with precious and semi-precious stones, silver jewelry, watches, purses and other similar goods from famous designers. Cellini: Italian art in jewelry • 6D 1-3, Magheru Blvd. • 7D 16, N. Balcescu Blvd. David Sandu Jewelry 7D : 30, Smardan St. 1st floor Folli Follie: Jewellery, Watches & Accessories. • Baneasa Shopping City • City Mall - groundfloor Frey Wille 6D : Framed in 18 carat gold or gold-plated settings, each piece is a work of art in itself: the integrated design sets can be collected as one might collect fine art; also silk scarves and leather handbags, as well as men accessories: cufflinks, leather belts and silk ties. 118, Calea Victoriei GMT Everytime 4D : Men & women watches: Omega, Mont Blanc, Longines, Revue Thomen, Tissot, Tag Heuer, Rado, Sector, Calvin Klein. 172, Calea Dorobantilor - Mario Plaza Shopping Center Helvetansa 6D : Swiss watches: Baume & Mercier, Cartier, Movado, Longines, Piaget, Tissot, Rado, Vacheron Constantin. 88, Calea Victoriei Zehava Jewelry 7D : Gallery of hand crafted gold & precious stone jewelry, 43, Lipscani St. Zen Diamond: Baneasa Shopping City

Shopping Center • Plaza Romania Sover: • 5D 102-110, Calea Dorobantilor • 8D Unirea Shopping Center, Central wing ground floor. • 18, Vergului St. Cora • Esplanada Shopping Center Granitul • 7D Galeriile Victoria 17, Calea Victoriei • Sover Medlife 365, Calea Grivitei • Cora - Lujerului • Sover Bucur Obor, 2, Soseaua Colentina FOOTWEAR Cesare Paciotti: • 6D 101, Calea Victoriei • 6D 118, Calea Victoriei Ecco: Men, women, kids & performance footwear. • Commercial Center Feeria • Baneasa Shopping City Geox: • Commercial Center Feeria • 8D Unirea Shopping Center

• 8F AFI Palace Cotroceni groundfloor 7A Humanic: • Baneasa Shopping City • Militari Shopping

MARKETS IN BUCHAREST

One of the unique and more pleasurable forms of food shopping in Bucharest are the outdoor markets. Due to transportation difficulties, supplies are often copious at one market and non-existent at another. Of the markets listed here, Amzei market has the best selection and prices. It is advisable to bring your own shopping bags when shopping at the outdoor markets.

28 Bucuresti what, where, when

BOOK STORES Noi 7D : 18, N. Balcescu Blvd. INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORATION Anatolian Carpet Boutique: Massive silver objects, Romanian Handicraft, glass objects, home life collection. • Carrefour Colentina. • 4C 31, Soseaua Kiseleff. • 8D Unirea Shopping Center. Casa Mia 4D : Mario Plaza Shopping Center. Innova 7D : Crystal, design home accessories, home textiles, Christmas decorations, Limoges porcelaine. 4, Patriei St.

Hervis Sports: • 9C Liberty Center • Militari Shopping Intersport: • Mall Vitan • Baneasa Shopping City Lacoste: • Baneasa Shopping City • 8F Bucuresti Mall. Lotto: • 6F 225, Calea Mosilor • Auchan - 33A, 1 Decembrie 1918 Blvd. • City Mall Nike: • 6D 25, Magheru Blvd. • 8F Bucuresti Mall. • 6C 95, Stirbei Voda St. Puma 8D : Unirea Shopping Center. Sergio Tacchini: Carrefour - Autostrada Buc.-Pitesti km. 11-12 ANTIQUES

SPORTS & TRAVEL

OPTICIANS Optica Malaga 6D : Large selection of top designer’s frames. 26, C.A. Rosetti St. Optiplaza: Top designer’s frames, sunglasses, accessories. • 8F Bucuresti Mall • 6A Orhideea

Mihai Albu 8B : Selling his own creations of leathergoods and Deluxe footwear. Grand Avenue Shopping Gallery Otter: • Commercial Center Feeria • 8D Unirea Shopping Center • Carrefour Militari Commercial Gallery • 8F Bucuresti Mall • 5F 235, Mosilor Ave. • 6A Commercial Center Orhideea • Plaza Romania • Militari Shopping • 7A AFI Palace Cotroceni • Esplanada Shopping Center.

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Adidas: • 6D 28-30, Magheru Blvd. • 8F Bucuresti Mall. • 5D 116-122, Calea Dorobantilor Decathlon: Militari Shopping Diadora: Auchan GBS - World of Brands: Samsonite, Lacoste - accessories, Showroom: • 8B 71, Soseaua Panduri (JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel) • 3B World Trade Plaza (Sofitel Hotel) 10, Montreal Sq. • Henri Coanda Int’l Airport

PIATA OBOR 5D : 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 5D : 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 5D : 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.

Make sure you get a signed receipt when buying antiques in Romania. Ask about an export permit as well. Galeria Numismatica 7D : Coins, medals, banknotes-expertise & sale. 35-37, Academiei St.

Hanul Cu Tei - Antiques, Art Gallery 7D : Antiques, furniture, porcelain, art glass, jewelery, paintings, decorative art, Oriental carpets, old coins, medals, clocks, ikones & collectibles. C.C. accepted. 63-65, Lipscani St., 1st floor. Thomas Antiques 7D : 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 ART GALLERIES Caminul Artei 7D : 16, Biserica Enei St. Gallery of the National Museum of Art of Romania 6D : 49-53, Calea Victoriei Hanul Cu Tei - Antiques, Art Galleries 7D : 63-65, Lipscani St., 1st floor. Hilton Gold Art 6D : 1-3 Episcopiei St. Athénée Palace Hilton. Orizont 6D : 23A, Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. Simeza 6D : 20, Magheru Blvd. GIFTS Art Glass 7D : 9-11, Selari St. “Craii De Curtea-Veche” 7D : Furniture, artifacts, photography, art deco, documents from the last

period of the 19th century. 14, Covaci St. Inside-Forever Gifts By Innova 7D : 4, Patriei St. Romartizana 7D : 18-20, Calea Victoriei Sarra Blu’: • 8D Unirea Shopping Center • 4D Mario Plaza Shopping Center • 8F Bucuresti Mall Totem: Handicrafts & decorations from South-East Asia, India, Africa, South America; Aromatherapy items; Jewelery & fashion accessories; Personalized gifts. • 8F Bucuresti Mall • 8D 1, Unirii Square ROMANIAN HANDICRAFTS Obart 6D : Vases, glassware, contemporary icons. 20, Magheru Blvd. Curtea Sticlarilor 7D : 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 6D : Large selection of original Cuban cigars; accessories. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest LIQUOR SHOPS Vinlux 8C : Large selection of special Romania & Imported wines, cognacs, champagnes, whiskies, etc. 8, Libertatii Blvd., Bl. 115, ground floor

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Bucuresti what, where, when

haute cuisine 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. The letter/ number combinations inside the listings are coordinates for the map (back cover). For subway map see also the back cover. Locations marked with a red square are situated in Old Town. Hours, prices and entertainment are subject to change.

• RESTAURANTS • COFFEE SHOPS • PUBS • COCKTAIL BARS • PUBS and more…

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 4D : 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 2C : 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 Man-

darin cuisine. Come join us and taste! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE GALERIA – 103 bis Erou

Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021-2068066. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 (22:00 – last order) Orasul Interzis (The Forbidden City) 6E :

“Orasul Interzis” is the first luxury Chinese restaurant which aims at offering a true gastronomic experience due to the specialties that feed both the body and the soul. The restaurant as well as the terrace can host private and corporate parties, business lunch/ dinner, work groups, meetings and other events, in a selected and refined ambiance. Enjoy the exotic menu and the business lunch special offer, Monday to Friday, 12:30 to 16:00. For those of you who are very busy but still want to flatter their senses by trying these dishes, this little Asian gastronomic paradise can come to their homes. C.C. accepted, wireless Internet, air conditioned, smokers/ non-smokers area, home delivery. 3, Silvestru St.

Ph.: 031 425 47 47; 0720 99 3333. Open: 12:30 – till the last guest. BELGIAN CUISINE La Belle Epoque 4D : 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 7F : 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 The Vinyard 2A : The feather in the Crowne Plaza’s cap, this is the hotel’s flagship restaurant, a work of great detail where everything is lovingly prepared by Executive Chef Ashlie Dias and his highly experienced team. Based around

Mediterranean cuisine you can always expect to find something special and a bit different on the daring menu, as well as a number of hot dishes requiring waiter and audience. An indulgent treat. Reservations highly recommended. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Non-Smoking. 1,

Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open: 17.00 – 23.00, Closed Sat, Sun. FRENCH CUISINE Casa Vernescu 6D : 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 5D : 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 7D : Bistro & Wine Bar. Warm

atmosphere, friendly staff. Check the extensive wine list. Chef’s weekly menu. Not cheap, but good value for money! 30,

Franceza St. (Old Town); Ph.: 0731-247-876; Open: 12:30 – 24:00, Mon. 18:30 – 24:00 La Cantine de Nicolai 5C : 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 6B : 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 ac-

tion? The Epoque Bistro features an open kitchen in which you can actually witness the creation of our splendid French cuisine and Steak house specialities. The Epoque Bistro welcomes you with a winter garden and 90 seats, available for private parties & events. Epoque Bistro’s Chef is renowned for its modern French menu featuring delicate flavours created from luxury and quality ingredients. Extensively trained in the best international cooking schools, he welcomes you every day to his authentic exquisite Frech Cuisine specialities and last but not list the Steak house dishe. The restaurant’s speciality is its 6-course tasting menus, but there is also catering for vegetarians, as well as an à la carte menu. The facilities are: smoking and 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. FUSION/CONTEMPORARY CUISINE Avalon 6D : A fine dining atmosphere, fusion and

avant-garde cuisine using exquisite ingredients and innovative cooking techniques make dining at Avalon restaurant an unforgettable experience. Howard Johnson Grand

Plaza Hotel, Calea Dorobantilor 5 – 7, Phone: 021 201 5030, breakfast 06:30 – 10:30, lunch 12:00 – 15:00, dinner 19:00 – 22:30 last order. GERMAN CUISINE Die Deutsche Kneipe 5D : Traditional German cuisine, drinks and atmosphere. C. C. accepted. 9, Stockholm St. Ph.: 021-233-9462, 021-230-1120

30 Bucuresti what, where, when

www.bucurestiwww.ro

0722-284560. Open: Mon.-Sat 15:00 - 23:00. Sunday closed. GOURMET CUISINE Champagne & Caviar Bar 5C : An exclusive

location, a gorgeous villa in the heart of the city, welcomes you in a refined and relaxing ambiance. You can taste here the finest Champagnes & Premium Selection Caviar and special Delicacies Menus: Kamatchatka King Crab Merus on Bed of Home Made Ravioli, Lobster Tail Salad with Truffled Carpaccio, Fresh Tagliateli with Prawns & Black Truffles. High Class services, VIP treat & Valet Parking any time of the day. CC accepted, wireless internet, air conditioned. 40, Lascar

Catargiu Blvd. Open: 11:00 - until the last guest leaves; Reservation is highly recommended. Ph.: 021-317-6007; 0733-735-932. JW Steakhouse 8B : An American concept restaurant,

based on quality, good-taste and comfort. Guest star is one of the best beef in the world - USDA Black Angus, with supporting act from England Aberdeen, both cooked to perfection with the house broiler. Fresh seafood and crisp salads complete the menu, together with the generous sized desserts, like New York Cheesecake. The Bourbon bar holds a remarkable collection of carefully chosen boutique Bourbons and the Cigar Lounge offer the perfect finish to a grand dinner experience. JW Marriott

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 3A : 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. 40 seat designated smoking area. Air Conditioning. CC accepted. Free WiFi access. Free parking.

Hotel Pullman, 10, Montréal Square. Open: Monday – Friday: Lunch 12:00 – 15:30; Dinner 18:00 – 23:30; Saturday & Sunday: Dinner 18:00 – 23:00; Ph.: 021 202 1635. La Brasserie 2A : 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 : 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

Bucharest Grand Hotel, 90, Calea 13 Septembrie, Ph.: 021-403-1903, Open: breakfast 06:30-11:00; dinner 18:30-23:30; Sunday brunch 12:00-16:00. Prime Steaks & Seafood 6D : An outstanding

culinary experience, either for a business lunch or simply for a relaxing escape. The menu showcases an elegant selection of gourmet food such as the world’s best steak, Irish Hereford Prime Rib-eye, or King Crab from Alaska, everything prepared in the inviting open kitchen. Complementing the gourmet menu, the extensive list of beverages includes worldwide famous wines, as well as a unique selection of awarded Romanian wines. 44 places. Red glass for show kitchen, walk in wine cellar. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-81, Calea Victoriei,

Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-3119000; 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 8B : Genuine Northern Indian menu creared by Indian

chef. Special brunch offer. Indian live show, Fri & Sat. Indian decoration, soft music, pleasant atmosphere, separate smoking area. Air conditioned; terrace. C.C. accepted. Parking lot.

127-131, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-410-1820. Open: 12:00 - 02:00. INTERNATIONAL CUISINE Allegro 6B : Enjoy the flavors of International - Mediter-

ranean 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 7G : 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 4C : Finest

culinary experience in a charming setting surrounded by paintings from a well-known art gallery. Refined atmosphere, excellent service. Two private rooms, non-smoking area, Guarded parking lot, CC accepted. 8, Prof. Ion Canta-

cuzino St. Ph.:021-260-2960; 0753-999-333; Open: 12:00-24:00. Balkan Bistro 7D : You are invited to Balkan Bistro,

where the enticing dishes will offer you the perfect Balkan flavor. The restaurant hosts a modern atmosphere dominated by the red and black colors (specific to all Balkan countries). The menu offers traditional dishes allowing you to sense the gastronomic influence of the countries which belong to this particular region: Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Turkey, Serbia. Every dish has an interesting story behind it, giving any

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Bucuresti what, where, when

in Bucharest. C.C. accepted. 1-3, Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777. Open: 08:00 - 24:00. Cafe Theatro Restaurant 7D : 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 4C : 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 7D : 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 7A : 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 2A : 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,

(Ramada Parc Hotel), phone 021-315200 ; 021-549-2541. Open: 12:00 - 23:30. Chez Marie 6D : 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 7D : 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 7D : 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. - InterCon-

4 star service

tinental Hotel - Ground floor, Ph.: 021-305-1060, Open: 06.30 - 23.00, business lunch buffet Mon-Fri 12:00 - 16:00, enjoy “Great Brunch! Guest Love!” Kids room with entertainment. Dacia Felix 6D : 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 7E : 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 7E : Mediterranean & International cuisine restaurant. Special lunch offer - 20% discount (food only).

32 Bucuresti what, where, when

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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 7D : 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 7D : 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.: 021-310-2720; Fax: 021-310-2799 Open: daily 07:00 – 23:00. Manolo 6F : Elegance, refinement, finesse, good taste,

privacy and discretion, an ideal place for meetings. Top chefs spoil their guests with specialties and are waiting for you. Nelu Ploiesteanu, Rodica Cretu and their guest entertain you daily starting 18:00 hours. 97, Pache Protopopescu Blvd.

Ph.: 021-252-4513; 0724-263-271 Paris Bucarest Brasserie 2B : 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 9D : 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 7D : 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 5D : 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 7G : 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 6D : You’ve come a long way... you need

to relax... dock to The Harbour where you will find a buffer zone, the taste of the finest international cuisine and maybe an acquaintance just to make you feel you belong... Terrace and parking. C.C. accepted. 10-22, Piata Amzei;

Ph.: 0724-388-686; Open: 11:30 - until the last guest leaves. The Sunlight Restaurant: The culinary world of the

angelo Airporthotel Bucharest is provided by this restaurant. A copious buffet breakfast, a gala dinner and a variety of Romanian and international dishes are at your disposal every day. The Sunlight Restaurant has a capacity of approx. 110 persons. For special events such as cocktail parties, anniversaries or dinner parties, the conference rooms can be turned into functional restaurant rooms. And the stylish live music may even put you in the mood for dancing. CC accepted. 283 Calea Bucur-

estilor, Otopeni. Ph: 021 20 36 500; Fax: 021 20 36 530; Open 24 hours a day. White Horse Business & Events: Situated in the

Northern area of Bucharest, the new established business district of the city, the restaurant offers carefully prepared traditional and international specialties for daily lunch while being in the same time the perfect location for corporate &

private events. 12 years of experience, professional services and equipment and the dedicated staff assigned complete the fine quality of the taste. C.C. accepted. Baneasa Business

&Technology Park, Building B, wing B2, 42-44, Soseaua Bucuresti Ploiesti, Ph.: 031-620-8412; Open: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 18:00 X-Time Restaurant 7D : Stylish, modern and minimalist decoration; multimedia projections; smoking & nonsmoking salons; air conditioned; CC accepted; guarded parking lot. Cocor Store, 4th floor – 29-33, I.C.

Bratianu Blvd. Ph: 0728 63 04 03; Open: non stop Starting 22:00 hours, one can access the restaurant by the Cocor Store elevators. ITALIAN CUISINE Caffé Città 6D : Northern Italian Menu restaurant for 106 persons. Enoteca, espresso bar, pizzeria, salumeria, gelateria, pasticceria, bakery in a fresh, natural, urban and contemporary mood. CC accepted. Non-smoking. 63-68, Calea

French. Aviator Stefan Protopopescu Str., 64. Ph: 021-230-3210, 0730 006 978. Open: 12:00-24:00 Il Giardino: Exclusive atmosphere; exotic cuisine; exquisite ambient. C.C. Accepted. 19, Clucerului St. Ph.: 021-223-1978; 0723-671-657. Open: 12:00 till the last guest. Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete and intimate place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96;

0722-204-884. Open: 11:00 – 24:00. MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE

ROMANIAN CUISINE Caro 4E : 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 7D : 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

Full range of kebab dishes, Turkish aperitifs and traditional sweets. Catering service available. 18-20, Hristo Botev

delight in the traditional setting of a Romanian mansion with a splendidly decorated terrace, rich wine-cellar, large selection of Romanian wines, traditional Romanian customs and hospitality. CC accepted. 285A, Calea Bucuresti.

St. (near C.A. Rossetti Square). Ph.: 021-3142825; 313-2833. Open: 12:00 - 24:00.

Ph.: 021-236-1510; Ph./Fax: 021-236-1511.

Golden Falcon 7E : Best Turkish restaurant in town.

Victoriei, Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-601-3436. Open: 11:30 - 23:30. Caffe & Latte 7C : 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 6F : 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 5C : 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 7D : Pasta /Carne. An Italian Original. If you

ever feel like savoring an authentic Italian dinner, come at the Modigliani restaurant you can be the guest of its Italian Chef, Andrea Aiudi. Home made pasta, basil, creamy sauces and a whole new world of flavors are waiting to be explored in its cozy atmosphere. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot.

9, Batistei St. (entrance also from the InterContinental lobby), Ph.: 0730-644-806, Open: Mon-Sat 18.00 - 04.00 Ristorante Da Renzo 8F : Delicious Italian food &

excellent wine selection. Daily special lunch offer. Smoking & non smoking areas; CC accepted. 13, Constantin Nottara

St.- close to In City Residences (ask your taxi driver), Ph: 0721 587 560; 0744 299 499, Open: 12:00 till late Roberto’s 6D : 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” 6D : Extensive menu of Italian dishes. Large selection of wines, beers and spirits. Nice interiors, relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff. 14, Mende-

leev St. Ph.: 021-312-2430; 0722-134-299. Open: Sun - Thu: 12:00 - 24:00, Fri - Sat: 12:00 - 01:00. Zigolini: A taste of Italy in Zigolini Ristorante! A deliciously

intimate dining experience nestled in the most elegant Galleria of Bucharest! C.C. Accepted. Guarded parking. JOLIE VILLE

GALLERIA – 103 bis Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, first floor. Ph.: 021-206-8069. Open: 12:00 – 22:30 (22:00 – last order). MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE Il Gambero Rosso 4D : 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

www.bucurestiwww.ro

Bucuresti what, where, when

Count Dracula Club 7D : 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 7G : 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 4D : 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 7D : 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, G. Georgescu St. Ph.:

021-335-3338; 0744.240.126; Fax: 021-301.98.45. Open: 11:00 - 02:00. Vatra 7D : Romanian cuisine. Air conditioning. 23-25, Brezoianu St. Ph.: 021-315-8375; 0721-200-800; Open: 12:00 - 24:00. SEA FOOD La Veranda 2A : The restaurant is housed inside a glass terrace offering wonderful views of the garden outside. It serves exquisite fish and sea food as fresh as the day it was caught. Air Conditioning, CC accepted, Parking, Smoking free, Outside Seating. 1, Poligrafiei Blvd. (Crowne Plaza Hotel); Ph.: 021.224.00.34; Open daily: 12.00 – 23.00. SPANISH CUISINE Valencia: The Spanish House. Spanish & Int’l cuisine, Paella and Sangria like matadores have it. A discrete and intimate place, ideal for passionat encounters. Air conditioning. C.C. accepted. 12, Dr. Leonte St. Ph.: 021-312-81-96;

0722-204-884. 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 7C : Italian Coffee Bar & Pastries Shop. One of the best cappuccino in town, just like in Italy. You may come and try it with our homemade pastry. 35, Schitu

Magureanu Blvd. Ph.: 021-314-3834. Open: Mon. - Sun. 08:00 - 22:00. Cafe Klein 7D : At Rembrandt Hotel mezzanine, Café

Klein is an intimate and pleasant place for all guests who want to enjoy either a delicious breakfast or just a glass of wine. Open 12:00 – 19:00 also for those who are not the hotel’s guests. The bar is for non-smokers. Free wi-fi internet inside the bar for all clients. 11, Smardan St.

Ph/Fax: 021-313-9315; 021-313-9316 Crown Cafe 2A : 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 2B : 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: Mon. – Sat.: 08:00

– 22:00; Sun.: 16:00 – 23:00; Ph.:021 202 1633; Hotel Pullman, 10 Montréal Square. Geisha Cafe 6D : 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 & cof-

fes, 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.

34 Bucuresti what, where, when

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Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest 2B : Over 1500 sqm

building; one of the largest HRCs in Europe, the new Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest has inside seating for 300 guests plus an outside terrace with a view over the lake and additional seating for 150. 32, Kiseleff Avenue. Ph.: 021-206-6261.

Open: 12:00 - 23:30 Jolie Cafe: Ideal venue for a coffee break or a business meeting. C.C. accepted. Guarded parking lot. JOLIE VILLE GALLERIA - 103 bis, Erou Iancu Nicolae St., groundfloor. Ph.: 021-206-8067. Open: daily 12:00 - 22:00. Kartell Cafe - Lounge 7D : 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 6D : 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.12, Dumbrava

Rosie St. Ph.: 021-211.31.00. Open: Mon.-Fri. 15:00-22:00, Sat.-Sun: 12:00-22:00 Tekaffe 6B : 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 2B : 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” 7D : 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. Ph.: 021 308 85 00. Open Mon-Fri: 07:00 - 02:00, Sat-Sun: 09:00 - 02:00. Bla Lounge Bar 6D : 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 6D : 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 8B : At the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand

Hotel. The American Sports Bar and Restaurant. A place for good food, good times and good sports. Live TV Sport coverage on 27 flat screen TV sets. Calea 13 Sept. 90.

Ph.: 021-403-1917;Open: 17:00 - 01:00. Club InterContinental Lounge 7D : With a

contemporary design an authentic touch, this is the perfect place for a meeting, networking, a light meal or just for relaxation, reading, listening to music and watching the unique

city view. Air conditioned. C.C accepted. Parking lot. 4,

Nicolae Balcescu Blvd. - InterContinental Hotel, 21st floor, Ph.: 021-310-2020 Open: 06.30 - 10.30 Dark Bla Bar 6D : Cognac & cigars bar for 34 persons.

Single Malts, Cognacs & Cigars in an upscale & late night mood. CC accepted. Smoking. 63-81, Calea Victorie,

Radisson BLU Hotel groundfloor. Ph.: 021-311-9000; Open: 17:00 - 02:00. The Dubliner Irish Pub 5B : 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. English Bar 6D : 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. 1-3,

Episcopiei St. Ph.: 021-303-3777/ ext. 6759. Open: 11:00-02:00. The Epoque Lounge Bar 6C : 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 Gin Factory 7D : Irish Pub & Restaurant

International ciusine; Chef’s choice: fish & chips; beefsteak. Lunch: 12:00-17:00. Live music every Wed & Sun; DJ set every Thu, Fri & Sat starting 23:00 C.C. Accepted, free WiFi internet; Digi TV, Sky TV, Smoking areas; 37, Lipscani St.

Ph: 021-311-3836 Open: 10:00 – 05:00 (23:00 – last kitchen order; 22:00 – last reservation). Green Hours 22 Jazz Café 5C : Hip and unique.

Enjoy exotic cocktails and coffee in a neon-lit, tube-shaped bar, with live, trippy jazz-rock on one end and cozy couches on the other-like spending an evening in a surreal submarine. Also a relaxing outdoor patio that’s packed on weekend nights. Music most nights after 9 pm.. Morning coffee or nightly cocktails.

120, Calea Victoriei. Ph.: 0722-234-356. Open: non-stop The Harp Irish Pub 8D : 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 7D : 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 6C : A real Iris pub run by real paddy. 1-3, Valter Maracineanu Sq. Ph.021-311-4177; Mora 4C : 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 6A : Lot of fun, karaoke, live concerts & special parties. 290, Splaiul Independentei, Regie P16 Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. Orange Bar (lobby bar): If you are looking for a place to

enjoy the highest standards, a perfect coffee, fresh sandwiches, sft drinks and the best cognac in town, you most go high, go North! C.C. accepted. 44A, Daniel Danielopolu. St.

Ph.: 021-233-5000 Open: daily 10:00-24:00 Pavilion Lounge 8B : Within the JW Marriott

Bucharest Grand Hotel. Your favorite drink, accompanied by Chef’s choice of canapés, in a relaxed atmosphere. CC accepted.

90, Calea 13 Septembrie. Ph.: 021-403-1904. Open: non-stop.

The Sky Gate Bar: This bar of the angelo Airport hotel

Bucharest offers a pleasant and relaxing environment where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, an afternoon tea, a refined cocktail or simply a cigarette in pleasant company. The hotel’s professional bartenders are always there just when you need them. Located right beside the lobby and restaurant, the bar offers its guests an intimate, private area. CC accepted. 283,

Calea Bucurestilor, Otopeni. Ph: 021 20 36 500; Fax: 021 20 36 530; Open 24 hours a day. Thomas Antiques Bar 7D : Taste the house wine

and enjoy it on one of their sunny balconies. Wide range of beers and something special for ladies - „French Vanilla” or „Brazilian Nut”. Smoking & non smoking areas; Air conditioned; Free WiFi internet; CC accepted. 19, Covaci St. 1st floor &

attic, Ph: 0752 440 818, Open: bar (1st floor): Mon - Thu & Sun: 10:00 – 22:00, Fri – Sat: 10:00 – 24:00, attic: Mon – Sat: 10:00 – 20:00, Sun: 10:00 – 16:00 Trafalgar Pub 5D : Beer, wines, spirits and snacks. Close to Turkish Embassy on Calea Dorobantilor. 4A, David Emanuel St. Ph.: 021-211-3151. Open: 11.00 - till the last guest. Tribute 6D : 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 7D : 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

White Horse 4D : Pub & Restaurant. English &

International cuisine. Wide selection of draught beers. CC accepted. 4A, G. Calinescu St. Ph.: 021-231-2795.

Open: 12:00 - until the last guest leaves. OTHERS Kentucky Fried Chicken 6D : Chicken-based food. Summer terrace. CC accepted. 28-30, Magheru. Ph.: 021-312-0023. Open: 10:00-23:00. Pizza Hut 5D : The same menu across the world. CC accepted. 1-7, Calea Dorobantilor. Ph.: 021-201-1755. Open: 11:00-23:00. DISCOS Blue Night: 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 7D : The hang-out of architecture students, a good choice for Monday nights. Air conditioning.

14, Blanari St. Ph.: 021-315-68-53. Open: 20:00-05:00 THEY DELIVER... Jerry’s Pizza: Ph. 021-327-4040. Open daily: 11.00-23.00. Fri. -Sun. 11.00-24.00. Mike’s Delivery: Oriental & European dishes. Ph.: 021-320-2030. Open: 10.00-24.00. Wu Xing: Chinese menu. Phone: 021-222-2126. Open: daily. 10:00-22:30. The Editor: We decline the responsibility for any changes in the schedule.

Ave. Ph.: 0372 010 300 Open: 09:00 - 24:00.

nightlife 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. bizamassage.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

Early Summer Considerations

Published by Crystal Publishing Group SRL www.bucurestiwww.ro 253, Calea Calarasilor, Bl 67 A, Suite 4, Bucharest, Romania Phone & Fax: (004021) 323-3829; (004021) 323-7033, (004021) 323-4706 Publisher: LUDWIG GELOBTER

the last word

• LUDWIG GELOBTER

Dear Reader, It’s already summertime in Bucharest, the sun is shining, the temperature is still just right, and, at least in my neighborhood, the air is clear and relatively unpolluted. If the severity of traffic jams is an indicator of our economic state, as the reduced traffic jams of a couple of years ago seemed to signal, that we are definitely in for a major improvement. There may be another indicator as well. Even though gasoline prices are up by about 25 % or more over the past year, as I look out my tram window on my way to the office, some 90% of the cars I see hold the driver alone, mostly not wearing a seatbelt. My tram takes me to my office, safely, usually faster than I would get there by car during rush hours, and without having to look for a parking space when I get there. It’s a great time to go for a walk in one of Bucharest’s many parks, the grass is still green and flowers are in bloom. It’s also a great time to take an excursion to the countryside or Prahova Valley, though a bit early for the seaside. The swimming pool in my fitness club is crowded these mornings,

I guess people are getting in shape for summer on the beach. As has happened in a number of east European countries, vacation costs have gone up quite a bit, so some Romanians may head abroad to Bulgaria, Greece or Turkey. But, by West European standards vacations here are still quite economical. Until mid-June you can visit the “Greatest exhibit in the world of snakes and reptiles” in the Mihai Flamaropol Skating-rink. Not exactly my cup of tea, but “chacun a son goût.” As a supporter of the green movement, I am very much in favor of bicycling, and was pleased to see the beginnings of a network of bike paths throughout the City. I am pleased by the growing number of bicycles which pass me, as I walk down Basarabiei Boulevard every morning. Of course, the bicyclists ride on the walkway, while pedestrians use all the bike path. But, this is Romania! This is a great time for fresh flowers. The street-corner flower stands are overflowing with beautiful and sweet smelling flowers, so buy your lady a bouquet. No special occasion, just because… she’ll love you for it. Have a great visit. Ludwig Gelobter, Publisher lgelobter@hotmail.com

Coordinating Editor: GABRIEL ARSENE office@bucharestlife.com Editorial Dept. e-mail: office@bucurestiwww.ro Financial Manager: Victoria Serban Senior Sales Executive: Sorin Gabriel Patrascu sorin.patrascu@bucurestiwww.ro advertising@bucurestiwww.ro Graphic & Dtp Office: Mihai-Cristian Rampelt mihai.r@bucurestiwww.ro Web Site: Vlad Alexandrescu Photos: To Advertise in Bucuresti What, Where, When please call: Phone & Fax: +4 021 323-3829; +4 021 323-7033; +4 021 323-4706 or e-mail at: advertising@bucurestiwww.ro North America US International Office 201B, Travis Street, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA Ph: +1 337 704 0554 Annual subscription Romania 80,00 Lei Payable to Crystal Publishing Group Banca Comerciala Romana – filiala sector 4 Account no.: RO08 RNCB 0075035221160001 For all other countries Euro 36,00. Please send the order and a check or money order to Crystal Publishing Group 201B, Travis Street, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA Circulation up to 18,500 copies distributed on a complimentary basis in major hotels: Alexander, Ambasador, angelo Airport Hotel, Armonia, Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest, Best Western Plus Mari Vila Bucharest, Bucharest Unirii Sq. Hotel, Capitol, Caro, Carol Parc, Central, Centre Ville Aparthotel & Elite Apartments, Class, Crowne Plaza, Dalin, Dalin Center, Duke, Elizeu, Golden Tulip Times, Golden Tulip Bucharest, Hello Hotels, Herastrau, Howard Johnson Grand Plaza Hotel, bis Gara de Nord, bis Palatul Parlamentului, Inter-Continental, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, Lev Or, Marshal, Minerva, NH Bucharest, Novotel Bucarest City Centre, Parliament, Pullman Bucharest, Radisson BLU Bucharest, Ramada Majestic Bucharest, Ramada Hotel & Suites Bucharest North, Ramada Bucharest Parc, Ramada Plaza Bucharest, Rembrandt, Rin Airport, Rin Central, Rin Grand, Starlight Suite Hotels, Tempo, Venetia, Z Executive Boutique Hotel; airlines and airline offices: Air France, Air Malta, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, Balkan Air, British Airways, Carpatair, CSA, EL AL, Emirates, Eurojet Aviation KLM, LOT, Lufthansa, Malev, Olympic Airways, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, SN Brussels Airlines, Swiss Int’l. Air Lines, Turkish Airlines; rent a car agencies: government offices, business centers, important banks & consulting companies. B3W is a Romania Audit Bureau of Circulation (BRAT) Audited Publication

© 2011 Crystal Publishing Group - 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.

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36 Bucuresti what, where, when