Moldova

Moldovahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldovaMoldovahttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/latest-travel-alerts-and-warnings-for-moldovaWhat are the issues affecting travelers in Moldova? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2022-03-08T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/latest-travel-alerts-and-warnings-for-moldovahttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>How is the Russian invasion of Ukraine affecting Moldova?</h2> <p><span>March 2022: The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. According to <a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/moldova">gov.uk</a>, <span>military activity in Ukraine is widespread, including in areas close to some Moldovan borders. Transnistria is outside the control of the Moldovan authorities. From 28 February 2022, all checkpoints between Ukraine and the Transnistria region were closed. All other border crossings into Moldova remain open.<span> </span></span></span></p> <h2></h2>Photo by Vitalie Sitnic on Unsplash 0Kn5QME2SDzo Unsplash Aerial view of Alba Iulia street, Buiucani, Moldova

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/moldovan-transportation-tipsThere are a few transport options for getting around Moldova. Find out the pros and cons of each method, from minibuses to taxis.2019-11-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/moldovan-transportation-tipshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>There are a few options for getting around <a href="/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/what-to-worry-about-in-moldova" target="_blank" title="Is Moldova safe?">Moldova</a>, from cars to public transportation or using the footpath. You should plan ahead and research the types of transport in Moldova, and also find out which methods of getting around are the safest.</p> <h2>How to drive safely in Moldova</h2> <p>Driving yourself around Moldova means you can go wherever your rental vehicle will take you. But before grabbing those car keys, there are some things to consider.</p> <p>First, Moldova's roads aren't the best. They are mostly two-lane and often don't have cautionary signs or lights. Some roadways aren't maintained, which can lead to troublesome driving conditions. In addition to other cars and pedestrians, you may see cyclists, horse carriages and animals in the road – the latter is more likely on rural roadways.</p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/northern-europe/united-kingdom/snow-and-ice-driving-tips" target="_blank" title="Tips to Drive Safely During Winter in Europe">In winter, you are required to have winter tires on your car from December to March</a>, and also use dipped headlights from November to March. It is also the law to drive using dipped headlights during the day for safety.</p> <p>Depending on what you're used to back home, you might consider Moldovan drivers to be quite angry – and unfortunately drunk drivers are common. The problem of boozing while driving became so problematic that the country now enforces a maximum blood alcohol content of just 0.03%. This is low compared to many countries, including the United States.</p> <p>Hectic and exciting are just two ways to describe driving in Moldova. One former expat said drivers will sometimes make four lanes out of two at intersections to cut other drivers off. Running red lights is common, as well as overtaking slow cars – even in residential areas. To be on the safe side, approach intersections with caution, and if you're driving slowly just pull over (where it's safe to do so) to let others overtake you safely.</p> <p>Of you are driving your own car or a rental car across borders into Moldova, border guards might interrogate you, or even solicit bribes. Having Western registration might make the experience even worse. Do not ever pay bribes.</p> <p>If you aren't from the European Union or UK, you will need an international driving permit in addition to your drivers license.</p> <p>Driving while using a cell phone is also illegal, unless you are connected to bluetooth.</p> <p>If you're thinking renting a car in Moldova is the way to go, carefully check the rental vehicle for damages or parts that are not working before driving off. One traveler wound up having to drive without fully-functioning headlights at night on the poorly-lit Moldovan roads.</p> <h2>Safety while walking around Moldova</h2> <p>Walking is a great way to see Moldova. But there are a few dangers to keep in mind for pedestrians here.</p> <p>Walking the streets at night isn't recommended as roads are often not well lit, which makes tripping or getting hit by a car a very real scenario. If you must walk at night, carry a torch or flashlight with you (or use your phone light).</p> <p>Be aware of open manholes and damaged gratings on streets – which might at first look safe to walk on, but will actually be a long drop to the bottom if you fell in. Travelers have also reported seeing holes on the sidewalks and in underground pedestrian crossings, so just keep your eyes peeled while you walk in Moldova.</p> <h2>Moldovan public transport</h2> <p>Trolley buses and buses are an easy and cheap way to get around the capital, Chisniau. Fares can be paid once you're onboard.</p> <p>The overall system is fairly efficient, with regular routes and services from early in the morning until midnight. At peak hours, transportation departs every 15 minutes or so.</p> <p>Beyond the capital, there are many buses which service other regional towns and villages in Moldova. <a href="https://cernov-tvic.md/" target="_blank" title="Interurban buses">The interurban buses leave from three main bus terminals in Chisinau</a>, and it is wise to check out which terminal you need to leave from to get to a specific destination, as each terminal doesn't service all destinations. You can purchase your bus ticket once you are at the terminal.</p> <p>Similar to trams, trolley buses are powered by overhead electric lines.</p> <p>There are also regular minibus services that criss-cross Chisinau. They stop when asked to, so give the driver enough warning before you get to your stop. These fit about 15 passengers inside, and are also known as <em>marshrutka</em>.</p> <p>Taxis are easily found in the capital, Chisinau but not all will stop when hailed. Look for taxis marked with company signage and hail a taxi from a busy area such as street corners or shops to increase your chances of getting one. Not all taxis have a meter let alone a functional meter. You can also pre-arrange taxis through your hotel or even from bars and restaurants.</p>Getty Images/Rem Parabin / EyeEm 1771619803 Getty Images A cracked pathway beside a road in Chisinau, the capital of Moldova

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/what-to-worry-about-in-moldovaHow safe is Moldova for travelers? Find out how to avoid common issues such as travel scams, petty crime, pickpocketing and police corruption.2020-08-12T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/what-to-worry-about-in-moldovahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>The landlocked Eastern European country of Moldova is is sandwiched between <a href="/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/crime-in-romania" target="_blank">Romania</a> and <a href="/travel-safety/eastern-europe/ukraine" target="_blank">Ukraine</a>. The capital city, Chisinau, is where most travelers go when visiting the country. While this destination isn't too popular among visitors, Moldova is a fairly safe country to travel, however there are a few things you should know before visiting.</p> <p>Travelers should mostly exercise common sense here: be on the lookout for petty crime such as pick-pocketing and scams, and be polite and cautious when police stop you.</p> <p>Moldova broke away from the former USSR in 1991, and is a very young country considering it only gained independence in 1992. There are some obstacles that can make traveling here difficult. However, the country is relatively safe and foreigners rarely report incidents of violent crime.</p> <h2>Criminal activity in Moldova</h2> <p>Organized crime groups in Moldova exist and are responsible for <a href="https://www.voanews.com/europe/scan-exit-can-blockchain-save-moldovas-children-traffickers" target="_blank">human and drug trafficking</a>. Reports indicate that more than 400,000 women have been trafficked from Moldova since the country gained independence in 1991.</p> <p>The country is also a prime shipment point for drugs sent into Western Europe. While troubling, the activities of these groups don't normally spill over into violence that affects visitors.</p> <p>Underground economic activity can be another major issue in Moldova. Though there is a small risk from transnational terrorism, violent attacks are infrequent. Public protests and demonstrations do occur, but stay relatively calm. One political protest in April 2009 did turn tragic, with the demonstration leading to looting, vandalism and numerous deaths and injuries of civilians and police.</p> <h2>Petty crime in Moldova</h2> <p>The biggest risk to travelers remains petty theft, such as pick pocketing. This generally occurs in the usual high-risk areas like crowded city streets in Chisinau and on buses and trains, especially international ones. Some travelers have also reported items missing from accommodations. And use common sense. Stay away from unlit parks at night and dark alleyways when muggings could occur.</p> <p>Some visitors have also reported having their international packages rummaged through or stolen. Travelers should only use official taxis "yellow ones" so you don't get ripped off.</p> <p>Be on the lookout for overcharging by taxi drivers and restaurant or bar staff. To avoid this issue, agree on taxi fare before getting in the car and ask to see menu prices in writing before ordering.</p> <p><em><strong>If you get unexpectedly sick or injured overseas, your medical bills could be expensive. Make sure you pack <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/overseas-medical">travel insurance</a>, with 24/7 emergency assistance.</strong></em></p> <h2>Common travel scams in Moldova</h2> <p>Unfortunately, ATM scams have hit the country, with travelers reporting unauthorized transactions, most likely from skimming devices and hidden cameras stealing pins. Some travelers advise never using an ATM on the street, to instead get money from the ATMs inside banks.</p> <p>Moldovans seem to have made a hobby out of trying to get travelers' money. Tourism is scarce in this country, and many of its citizens assume foreigners are rich and ripe for the picking. Be wary of scams.</p> <p>Moldovan gangs have been noted for a few infamous scams including credit card theft and computer hacking. One particular scam involved promising free X-rated pictures to people who downloaded certain software. More than 38,000 downloaded the criminal software and got stiffed out of more than of $2.74 million. So don't forget to use your head when downloading something in a foreign country.</p> <p>Email scams are also common. An official-looking website may send you an email saying they're related to immigration and ask for personal information or payment for government forms. Don't give your money or credit card information to just anyone; be sure it's legitimate.</p> <h2>Potential harassment in Moldova</h2> <p>Some Moldovans dislike minorities and will verbally and sometimes physically harass them. Some travelers of other races have reported being denied entrance into certain clubs and restaurants others report harassment by police. The problem is common enough that the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe has developed legislation targeting hate crimes.</p> <h2>Police corruption in Moldova</h2> <p>Police do care when a crime occurs, but the lack of suitable equipment may prevent them from making an in-depth response to offenses. Bribery happens within the police force, with travelers reporting it's possible to pay your way out of a traffic violation, whether it's real or imagined by the responding officer.</p> <p>Visitors say they have been stopped for small offenses like jaywalking and been forced to pay a fine. Some travelers also report corrupt border police. You are advised to carry identification with you at all times, just in case you're stopped by the police.</p> <p>Sadly, police officers might also take advantage of travelers, especially those who look foreign. It's common for them to ask to see your passport; you can show it to them, but try to avoid handing it over. It might be expensive for you to get it back.</p> <p>Border guards in <a href="/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/the-trouble-in-transnistria" target="_blank">Transnistria</a> may demand money when you exit the territory. Learning a few Russian phrases will help you with the locals in this area, as police will be less likely to demand bribes if you speak the tongue of their former motherland.</p> <p>If you're stopped by the police, you can ask to see their identity card or badge. Record all their information, such as name, badge number and title, so you can inform your embassy.</p> <h2>Be mindful of your manners in Moldova</h2> <p>The local customs don't have a lot of quirks, it's mostly about being polite. Don't talk politics, as this is still a dicey issue in Moldova and <a href="/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/the-trouble-in-transnistria" target="_blank">Transnistria</a>. Also, treat women with respect. Chivalry is important, and you'll be seen as a rude foreigner if you don't open doors for women. Do not say mean or sexually suggestive things about Moldovan women locals will be very angry.</p>Getty Images/Ecaterina Soseva / EyeEm 11082447334 Getty Images A man photographing the city of Chisinau, Moldova

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/the-trouble-in-transnistriaTransnistria is on the eastern bank of the Dniestr River. We share our tips to avoid trouble in this breakaway state between Moldova and Ukraine.2020-06-16T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/the-trouble-in-transnistriahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>There is a section on the eastern bank of the Dniestr River between <a href="/travel-safety/eastern-europe/moldova/what-to-worry-about-in-moldova" target="_blank">Moldova</a> and Ukraine called Transnistria. So, what exactly is this breakaway state? Find out about this day trip destination with these travel tips.</p> <p>Although Moldova does not acknowledge this location as an independent state, Transnistria has its own police force, currency, army and Transnistrian border guards. This region even boycotts the Moldovan Independence Day, instead celebrating its own on the 2<sup>nd</sup> of September.</p> <h2>Traveling to Transnistria</h2> <p>As a traveler, you can enter this area fairly easily, but make sure to get two stamps on your registration card to prevent problems upon leaving Transnistria. Otherwise, it will look like you visited the area illegally.</p> <p>This can lead to all sorts of fun discourse with border guards, who may try to get you to "buy" your way out of the territory. One traveler said he was shaken down for $40 for not having the two stamps. His friend, however, only had to pay $25 because he was a poor student.</p> <p>This traveler advised hiding any valuables and giving a lowly impression because the greedy guards will be looking for people to overcharge. They will often pat you down and check belongings, so if you do have a considerable amount of cash, stow it away carefully.</p> <h2>Avoid trouble while in Transnistria</h2> <p>You'll probably take the Tiraspol-Dubasari-Ribnita road to get to Transnistria, either by car or bus. People who live in this area are free to travel to Moldova and bordering countries, it's easy to get through the open border of Ukraine by car or international train, though the latter is sometimes caught up in political conflicts.</p> <p>Whether you're going to or coming from Transnistria, prepare for checkpoints, which you're not allowed to photograph. Don't try to snap a picture of military facilities or security forces either. You could end up getting a great photo of the inside of a jail cell.</p> <p>The area of Transnistria has been accused of not granting residents proper civil liberties. It's advisable to avoid any political conversations on your trip. Keeping track of who controls what plot of land can be confusing, as Moldova presides over some and the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (PMR) reigns over other parts.</p> <p>There are border issues that remain undecided, which sometimes leads to conflict. Transnistrian forces have been involved in problems since 2005, and a 2007 standoff with Moldovan forces turned aggressive. Luckily, there were no deaths. Russian military forces have also been known to operate in Transnistria.</p> <p>Overall, street crime in the territory is low, locals are friendly and the capital is very well policed.</p> <h2>What to see in Transnistria</h2> <p>One you've arrived in Transnistria, you can visit the capital city Tiraspol. It is also recommended you exchange your Moldovan lei, Euro or other currency for the local Transnistrian ruble. Exchange only what you will need for the duration of your stay in Transnistria as the currency can only be used within the territory.<br /><br />Tiraspol, the second largest city in Moldova, has many beautiful tree filled parks, Soviet statues and medieval fortresses. Other sights to see in Transnistria include:</p> <ul> <li>Taking a boat tour on the Dniestr River</li> <li>Getting a history fix in the war museum</li> <li>Visit the Art Gallery in Tiraspol</li> <li>Check out the Ethnography and Natural History Museum</li> <li>Central beach area in downtown Tiraspol on the banks of the Dniester River</li> <li>Noul Meant Monastery</li> </ul> <p>There are also several themed tours you can do to see Transnistria including an overnight culture tour where you can experience local life, check out beautiful nature areas and experience locally produced food and wine.</p> <p>There is also the Kvint Distillery which makes brandies, cognacs, vodka and wine. If you book in advance, you can do a tasting tour.</p> <p>Tiraspol has 14 choices of accommodation should you wish to spend a night or 2 in the city. There are several eateries, some serving local and Ukrainian cuisine.</p> <p>Some reports claim that trafficking of women, drugs and weapons occurs in Transnistria, but it's unlikely you'll encounter these activities on your visit.</p>Getty Images/Anton Polyakov 1562574137 Getty Images Bridge in Tiraspol city. The bridge connects the city of Tiraspol and the village nearest announcement Kitskany