For a Romanian, Moldova is perhaps the easiest foreign destination there is: the same language is spoken, it is close, and it is cheap. Here are a few useful things to know before you set off.
Documents
Romanian citizens can enter with an identity card or a passport, without a visa. Short tourist stays require no special formalities. That said, conditions can change, so check the official sources before you travel.
Money
The currency is the Moldovan leu, which is not the same as the Romanian one. As a rough guide, one euro is about 19-20 Moldovan lei. Cards are accepted in the cities and at most restaurants, but take cash as well for markets, villages and small guest houses. Changing money is straightforward at the exchange offices in town.
Language
Romanian is spoken everywhere, so there is no language barrier. In the cities and in the north and south of the country you will also hear Russian, and in Gagauzia, Gagauz, but you will manage perfectly well in Romanian.
Getting there
The simplest way is by car via Iași, crossing at Sculeni or Albița, three to four hours to Chișinău. There are also flights from Bucharest, coaches and trains. Details in the article on transport.
A few things to know
Check your roaming options before you leave — Moldova is not in the European Union, so a local SIM or an eSIM may work out cheaper. If you are driving, arrange motor insurance valid in Moldova. And do not rush: the charm of the country is in its slow pace.
What to expect
Low prices, good food, excellent wine and warm hospitality. Moldova is not a mass-market destination — and that is precisely why it is a pleasure. For a plan, see the three-day itinerary.
Small differences that matter
Though everything looks familiar, a few details are different. The plug sockets are the same as in Romania, but the currency, the phone SIMs and some products are not. In Chișinău and in the north you will hear Russian more often, without that being a problem. A tip of around 10 per cent is welcome in restaurants. And the pace is generally slower — things get done without hurry, part of the charm of the place.
What to bring home
Wine is the obvious souvenir, but not the only one: divin (Moldovan brandy), preserves, honey, walnuts and sheep-farm products all deserve a place in your luggage. You will find them in the markets and in the winery shops. If you are driving back, you have plenty of room; if you are flying, watch the limits on liquids and alcohol. However you come, you will most likely leave already thinking about returning.
In the end, for a Romanian, Moldova is not really abroad, but a neighbouring country that feels, in many ways, like home.
