General04:50 · Aug 23

Travelers Discover Romania’s Rich Culture, Nature, and Warm Hospitality Beyond Dracula Myth

WallaCenter

Translated & summarized from Walla by baba

Key points

01Romania offers much more than Dracula and casinos, with rich nature and culture beyond Bucharest.
02The Carpathian Mountains provide vast green landscapes and picturesque towns for immersive nature experiences.
03Romanian cuisine features traditional dishes like mici and papanasi, alongside local drinks tuica and palinca.
04Bran Castle and Dracula lore attract tourists, but the country also offers historic churches and unique sites like salt mines.
05Bucharest combines monumental architecture with lively nightlife and a vibrant old town atmosphere.
06Guided tours enable access to unique cultural sites like the Merry Cemetery and authentic local experiences.

In this story

People

Erez Dagan, Haim Kantor, Tal Zimmerman, Vlad Tepes

OrganizationsWalla Tourism, Pegasus

PlacesRomania, Carpathian Mountains, Bucharest, Bran Castle, Transylvania, Sapanta

The story · English

Romania is often stereotyped by Israelis as a destination linked to Dracula, Bucharest, casinos, or budget European vacations. However, a new episode of the travel series "Around the World" by Walla Tourism and Pegasus reveals a much richer and more colorful reality. Travel blogger Erez Dagan, tour guide Haim Kantor, and blogger Tal Zimmerman explore Romania’s diverse offerings, from the Carpathian Mountains to local cuisine and vibrant communities.

The trio highlights Romania’s vast green landscapes, especially in the Carpathians, where travelers can spend entire days surrounded by forests and picturesque towns. Kantor, who was born in Romania and has guided tours there since the 1990s, emphasizes that Romania is a destination visitors return to, thanks to its natural beauty and variety of experiences. Zimmerman was surprised by the country’s warm people, lively nightlife, and delicious food, which exceeded her low expectations.

Romania’s cultural charm blends classic European elements with a soulful, welcoming atmosphere. Visitors enjoy affordable travel, quality local wine, shopping, and a warm reception toward Israelis. The local cuisine features specialties like mici (Romanian grilled sausages), papanasi (a rich dessert), and traditional drinks such as tuica and palinca, which are integral to Romanian hospitality.

The episode also explores Romania’s famous Dracula legend centered on Bran Castle, linked to the historical figure Vlad Tepes. Beyond the myth, travelers can discover medieval churches, local folklore, and historical sites like salt mines that offer family-friendly attractions underground. Bucharest presents a dynamic urban experience with its massive Parliament building, vibrant old town, cafes, and nightlife.

Kantor notes that guided tours provide access to unique places often missed by independent travelers, such as the colorful Merry Cemetery in Sapanta and cultural evenings in Transylvania. The combination of nature, food, history, and warm people creates a compelling travel experience. Romania’s appeal spans all seasons, with green summers and snowy winters offering distinct atmospheres. Ultimately, Kantor expresses a deep personal connection to the country, saying, "I love Romania very much, but more than that, Romania loves me."

Read the original at Walla