Romania

Romaniahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romaniaRomaniahttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/health-in-romaniaMedical care in Romania is of a low standard, and medical supplies are often in short supply. Here's what travelers need to know about staying healthy.2019-10-02T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/health-in-romaniahttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Is Romania's medical care high standard?</h2> <p>Medical care in <a href="/explore/eastern-europe/romania/top-things-to-do-and-cost-guide-to-romania" target="_blank" title="First-timer's guide to Romania">Romania</a> is generally of a low standard. Better quality medical providers are available in the capital, Bucharest and in the larger urban centers. But, in an emergency, identifying them and locating them is no mean feat.</p> <p>Outside the major urban centers, basic medical supplies are often in short supply.</p> <h2>Prescription drugs and medications in Romania</h2> <p>Most over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs are available in Romania, but may be sold under different brand names. Travelers requiring regular medication should come supplied or ensure that in your prescription, the physician lists the generic medication required, rather than simply prescribing a specific brand name.</p> <p>For critical medical emergencies in Romania, helicopter services are available. But, outside the major urban centers, response times for <a href="/travel-insurance/emergency-assistance" target="_blank" title="Worldwide 24 hour Emergency Assistance from World Nomads">emergency services</a> vary.</p> <h2>Rabies risk in Romania</h2> <p>Rabies is common in Romania, but not a major risk to travelers. Although rabies is largely confined to rural areas, to avoid contamination, it is safest to limit your contact with dogs whether you are in Romania's countryside or the cities.</p> <p>Rabies is transmitted by the bite or scratch of an infected animal. The animal in question may be a dog or any of a number of other animals. In unvaccinated humans, rabies is almost always fatal. Given the high population of dogs and wild animals in Romania, a prophylactic anti-rabies vaccination is recommended for travelers, especially if they intend to spend time in villages, farms or wilderness areas. Check with your travel doctor prior to your trip to see if a vaccination is right for you.</p> <h2>Diseases and illnesses to be aware of in Romania</h2> <ul> <li>The Romanian Health Ministry confirmed the presence of West Nile virus infections in Alba, Bucharest, Cluj, Constanta, Dolj, Galati, Mures, Sibiu and Teleorman. Since there is not yet an effective vaccine for this mosquito-borne disease, use protective measures against mosquito bites: wear long-sleeved clothing at dawn and dusk, do not leave windows open if there is no fly screen in your accommodation, use insect repellent, and avoid stagnant water</li> <li>Tick-borne encephalitis is a risk associated with travel in Romania – especially forested areas – where ticks are common and active from spring to fall. If you intend spending a long time in rural areas, vaccination is recommended</li> <li>Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases include: tuberculosis, measles, typhoid and hepatitis are prevalent in Romania. From time to time, serious outbreaks occur. Vaccination is an option. Otherwise, avoid raw or undercooked food and in rural areas, boil all drinking water and avoid ice cubes</li> <li>Sexually transmitted diseases are prevalent in Romania. Syphilis is more common than in the rest of Europe. In 2005, Romania had the highest incidence of HIV infections in central/southeastern Europe (16,258 cases). Use protection to avoid transmission of any diseases while traveling</li> <li>Given the prevalence of STDs and the fact that surviving pediatric AIDS sufferers are reaching the age of legal consent, sexually active travelers are well advised to use a male or female condom.</li> </ul> <p>Going to Romania soon? Get a <a href="/travel-insurance/" target="_blank" title="Get a quote">travel insurance</a> quote below!</p> <p></p>Getty Images/Evan Lang 11059567002 Getty Images Colorful houses line the streets of Sighișoara, Romania, the hometown of Dracula

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/terrain-and-wild-animals-in-romaniaRomania is a land of great natural beauty. From mountains to hills and plateaus to plains, this is what you need to know about bears, wolves and staying safe off the beaten track.2019-12-24T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/terrain-and-wild-animals-in-romaniahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Approximately 47% of Romania's wilderness areas are covered by natural or semi-natural ecosystems.</p> <p>Romania has more than 33,000 species of animal, and 3,700 plant species – 23 of which have been declared natural monuments.</p> <p>Three major vegetation zones - alpine, forest and steppe - are recognized. They contain some of Europe's major distributions of sycamore, beech, oak, willow, spruce, fir, pine, poplar and meadow.</p> <p>The Carpathian Mountains - the tallest peak Mt. Moldoveanu rises to 2,544m - cross Romania from the north to the southeast and occupy one third of Romania's land area. They contain many lakes created during the last Ice Age. In and around present-day Transylvania (the Latin name means "Beyond the Forest"), the mountains represent Europe's longest volcanic chain. St. Ana is the only remaining volcanic lake.</p> <p>Another third of Romania (33%) is covered in hills and plateaus. Much of the region is under cultivation with extensive orchards and vineyards.</p> <p>The last third consists of a fertile plain of dark soil where cereals, vegetables and a variety of other crops are grown. This Danube flows through this region on its way to the Black Sea. The Danube Delta forms Europe's most extensive wetland and the world's largest continuous reed-bed.</p> <p>At different times of the year, this area is a haven for some of the world's largest communities of migratory birds.</p> <h2>High altitudes in Romania</h2> <p>Due to their extreme altitude, Romania's mountainous regions are subject to freezing temperatures and severe alpine storms throughout the year. Winter storms ravage the cities and towns and icy streets and pavements are a constant hazard. Travelers should wear sturdy, grippy shoes to avoid slipping, and be aware of falling shards of ice.</p> <p>In the warmer spring and summer months, Romania's mountainous regions are also subject to torrential rains and flash floods.</p> <h2>Seismic activity in Romania</h2> <p>The Carpathians are Europe's longest volcanic mountain chain. The surrounding region is unstable and severe earthquakes frequently occur, particularly in the south and southwest. Minor tremors occur throughout the year. Earthquakes often cause landslides.</p> <p>The last major earthquake occurred on 5th August 2009. Its epicentre was in the Black Sea and it registered 5.8 on the Richter scale.</p> <p>Almost half of the forests - which make up 13% of total land area - are managed for watershed conservation rather than production; Romania has one of the largest areas of undisturbed forest in Europe. They contain 60% of Europe's brown bears and 40% of its wolves.</p> <p>Near the larger mountain forests, bears often visit city neighborhoods in search of food. Wolves are also frequently spotted close to human habitation. Bears and wolves are at least as nervous around humans as we are around them. In general, they prefer to keep their distance. Tourists are advised not to approach them or attempt to feed them. They may become disoriented and attack.</p> <p>For those who like camping outdoors, seek local advice before setting up your tent.</p>Getty Images/Sebastian Condrea 11079870436 Getty Images Hikking one of the highest peaks in Romania during Autumn

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/crime-in-romaniaPetty crime occurs in Romania, from thieves to scammers, this is what you need to know before you go.2021-09-02T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/crime-in-romaniahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Located in southeast Europe, Romania is known for its diverse landscapes and for being home to Transylvania, ancient churches and monasteries and abundant wildlife. A well-developed country, Romania, like most countries, still harbors criminals who prey on visitors unfamiliar with their surroundings. </p> <p>Here's what you need to know to stay safe and trouble-free in <a href="/explore/eastern-europe/romania/top-things-to-do-and-cost-guide-to-romania" target="_blank" title="Explore Romania: A First-timers Guide">Romania</a>.</p> <h2>Crime in Romania</h2> <p>Crimes against travelers, mostly mugging, pickpocketing and confidence tricks, are an ongoing problem. Organized groups of thieves and pickpockets operate in crowded areas, such as train stations and subways, on trains and on buses in all the major cities. The most common method is to distract victims while several people, often children, attempt to snatch watches and jewelry from pockets or from around the neck and wrist. Jacket pockets or bags can be cut open with a sharp knife and the contents taken from unsuspecting tourists who remain unaware of the theft until much later.<br /><br />If possible, travel in groups or accompanied by a savvy, trustworthy local. Avoid crowds, don't leave personal belongings unattended and, if leaving them in a car, make sure they are out of sight.<br /><br />Drink spiking is an issue, especially in Bucharest's Old Town. Don't accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from people you've just met. Thieves often pose as police officers who ask to see your ID and wallet. legitimate Romanian police won't do this. If you suspect someone is posing as a police officer, ask to see their ID.<br /><br />Financial, dating and marriage scams occur. Romania is a cash economy. There are a number of ATMs available in major cities, and they will accept international credit and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Be aware that sophisticated identity theft rings target ATMs in Romania. Always check for any evidence of tampering prior to using them. Only use ATMs in banks, shops and shopping centers, especially at night, don't let your credit card out of your sight, and be wary of people you've met online. </p> <p>Credit card fraud is a serious problem here, and the safest option is to pay with cash where possible. When accessing publicly available internet cafes, sensitive personal information and account passwords may be compromised.</p> <h2>LGBTQ+ travelers in Romania</h2> <p>Romania is still quite a socially conservative country and, although the gay scene is growing, and homosexuality is not illegal, discrimination is still a problem despite anti-discrimination laws being in place. Same-sex marriage is not permitted. The Romanian Orthodox Church is highly influential in the country and has made it clear it is against homosexuality. There have been anti-gay protests at Pride marches and it is not uncommon for LGBTQ+ people to hide their sexuality outside of Bucharest and other major cities. Unsurprisingly, Romania's gay scene is mostly focused in Bucharest, and gay bars are opening in a few smaller towns.</p> <h2>Corruption in Romania</h2> <p>Corruption can be a problem in Romania. However, corruption is illegal. Never bribe traffic officers or police – ever. Most patrol cars are equipped with recording devices and since 2008, people who have attempted to bribe officers have been prosecuted. According to Reuters, <span>Transparency International ranks Romania as one of the EU’s most corrupt member states. Brussels has monitored Romania's justice system seince it became a member state in 2007</span><br /><br />In an emergency call 112.</p>Getty Images/Alexander Spatari 11012978502 Getty Images Bucharest historical center with Calea Victoriei boulevard, Romania

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/road-travel-in-romaniaRoad conditions in Romania aren't great, and traffic laws are strict. Find out how to stay safe while driving in Romania.2019-10-10T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/eastern-europe/romania/road-travel-in-romaniahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>With countless natural wonders and interesting historical sites, one of the best ways to travel around Romania is by road. Unfortunately, driving in Romania comes with poor road conditions. Whether you're a driver or a pedestrian in Romania, be aware of your surroundings and all times.</p> Don't forget:<br /> <ul> <li>Romanians drive on the right-hand side of the road</li> <li>Give way to the right on a roundabout</li> <li>To drive on toll roads, you need to buy a <span>vignette (sticker) at the border. They are also for sale at most petrol stations. Failure to display the sticker may lead to a heavy fine. You can find out more about prices by using the website<span> </span></span><a rel="external" href="https://www.roviniete.ro/en/#go-content">Roviniete.ro</a><span>.</span></li> <li><span><span>Carry the following in your car: first aid kit, fire extinguisher, red warning triangles and a fluorescent jacket.</span></span></li> </ul> <h2>Poor road quality in Romania</h2> <p><a href="http://reports.weforum.org/pdf/gci-2017-2018-scorecard/WEF_GCI_2017_2018_Scorecard_EOSQ057.pdf" target="_blank" title="2017-2018 report">The World Economic Forum ranks Romania 120 out of 137 states</a> for road quality with limited freeways and infrequent passing lanes.</p> <p>While major streets in urban areas and major inter-urban roads are generally in fair to good condition, many secondary roads are in poor repair, unpaved, have poor lighting, narrow and lacking marked lanes.</p> <p>Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when driving in Romania:</p> <ul> <li>In the mountains, roads are particularly dangerous when wet or covered with ice</li> <li>In the cities and on major highways, winter snow removal is intermittent</li> <li>If you plan to drive on wet or icy roads, make sure your car has snow tires or "winter tires" with deep treads providing adequate traction</li> <li>Test your brakes and learn how to get maximum efficiency (a balancing act between tires and brakes) before you're faced with an emergency</li> <li>Make sure your demister and windscreen wipers are functional.</li> </ul> <h2>Traffic fatalities in Romania</h2> <p>According to the European Union Road Federation, <a href="https://www.euronews.com/2019/08/20/road-fatalities-which-eu-countries-are-the-most-dangerous" target="_blank" title="EuroNews">Romania has the highest per vehicle rate of traffic fatalities of any country in the EU</a>. Motorists are well-advised to drive carefully and defensively. Even if your driving skills are faultless, don't assume other drivers share your competence.</p> <p>In rural areas, pedestrians, cyclists, horse-drawn carts, livestock and wild animals share many roads with motor vehicles. These are difficult to see especially at night.</p> <p>Don't speed, and if at all possible, avoid driving at night.</p> <p>In many built-up areas parked vehicles often block pavements forcing pedestrians to walk in the street. When driving, be prepared to slow down when pedestrians are forced onto the road.</p> <p>When walking, always look both ways before attempting to cross the road and don't trust the crossings. These are often poorly marked and even where there are traffic lights, drivers often ignore them.</p> <h2>Strict traffic laws are in place</h2> <p>Despite these many dangers or perhaps because of them, Romanian traffic laws are very strict. Traffic police can confiscate any form of driver's license or permit for 1-3 months. They can also retain a driver's license by for driving under the influence of alcohol or for causing an accident resulting in injury or death. Fines may be requested at the time of any traffic infraction, including failure to yield to pedestrians at a crossing.</p> <p>There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. Police routinely administer breathalyzer tests to all drivers involved in an accident. Irrespective of whether or not you have been drinking, refusal to take a breathalyser test results in criminal penalties.</p> <p>Intending drivers must obtain an international driving permit or a Romanian driver's license.</p> <p>Children under 12 years of age may not be transported in the front seat and all occupants must wear a seat belt.</p>Getty Images/Slawomir Olzacki / EyeEm 1899560206 Getty Images The winding Transfagarasan mountain road, Romania