Tips and insights into the life of the Romanian capital, the nightlife, restaurants and what to expect whether you are a business traveler, tourist or an expat in Bucharest

General Cost of Living:

In general, the cost of living in Bucharest is around 4-8 times lower than that of a more developed country like Germany. That said, the closer you are to the city center, the more expensive things will be, including rent. The usual consensus is that if you are employed by a foreign company making wages that would be acceptable in your country of residence, and that salary is transported to Romania, you will be perfectly comfortable.

As it's always best to organize these things in advance, set up your Bucharest lodging before you arrive so that you have somewhere to land and orient yourself upon your arrival. If you have given yourself some leeway between getting to Romania, and starting your assignment, take the time to explore your neighborhood and map out your route to work.

Eating out is actually quite affordable, with lunch averaging around 2-5 Euros for a full meal, and evening meals available at a range of price points from student-priced to extravagant fine dining.
Currency Conversion: The 1 Romanian New Lei (Lei1) = US$0.31 / £0.21/ €0.24

Cabs and Transportation:

If you are going to be arriving in the city via train or air, keep in mind that you will still be a fair distance from the city centre. It is absolutely important that you note that there is a long tradition of taxi scam artists at both the airports, and train station. Never accept a ride with anyone who approaches you in the station and asks if you need a taxi – this will only guarantee you a lift in a cab with a fixed meter that can run you approximately $150 US.

Fly Taxi services hold a monopoly at the airport, and are generally a good choice for both the business traveler and the vacationer. These cabs will be readily available and are fairly reliable. It is still a good idea to politely establish what the flat rate is before stepping inside, both to guard against a fast meter and to establish your self as a knowledgeable traveler.

Even within the city it's always best to call a taxi, rather than take one off the street.
Cobalcescu (tel 021-945)
Cris Taxi (tel 021-9461)
Taxi Sprint (tel 021-9495)

Getting to and from your Bucharest lodging:

Renting a car is always a great option as many of the city busses won't allow you to move beyond specific areas, or take you out of the town proper if you'd like to do some sightseeing on weekends.

D&V is a car rental agency that is located right inside of Optopeni Airport, and they offer rates that range from reasonable to the higher end of what you should expect to pay. At approximately 42 Euro a day, with a drop to 27 Euro if you keep the car longer than a week, this isn't the worst option. Many of the big name brands also operate out of the airports, but the smaller local companies tend to offer highly competitive rates on the same vehicles.

DV Touring: tel 021-201 4611, 0788-998-877; www.dvtouring.ro)

Groceries:

If you are a business traveler staying long-term in the city, it is wisest to select some form of Bucharest lodging that includes a full kitchen, or kitchenette. Even if your meals will be compensated by your employer, cooking for yourself once in a while or even entertaining can go a long way towards making you feel more at home.

Farmers markets are a wonderful option, but may be hard to get to from your apartment. The best option is generally the Nic, a popular and very present grocery store chain that has outlets in most neighborhoods, and will likely be within walking distance of your residence. Larger hypermarkets such as Mega Image are also available, as well as ubiquitous smaller stores that might have the essentials but little else.

Bear in mind that produce, such as fruits and vegetables, must all be weighed before you arrive at the checkout. Many stores and markets feature scales, pencils and tags to do just this, while others require that you take your fresh food to the meat counter to have them place it on the electronic scale. You are also expected to bag all of your own groceries.

Business Etiquette:

Expect to find a charming combination of friendliness and formality. Suits are expected, as well as proper manners. A cell phone is an absolute necessity, so either arrange an overseas plan before leaving, or look into one of the local carriers upon your arrival. Note that it is illegal to use a mobile while driving.

The average business meeting will begin with a handshake, and an exchange of business cards. Be forthcoming, prompt and ready to talk – the business lunch is the most common meeting arrangement. Unless you are out with other Bucharest expats at an event populated mainly by international staff, it is unlikely that you will end up in a bar late at night with your co-workers in any kind of business context. As always, be sure that you are on time, and make your appointments well in advance.

Although it is rare, if you are invited to the home of a business associate or contact you should bring a small gift of flowers or a nice bottle of spirits.

Bucharest expats:

Finally, finding other Anglophones when abroad can always help with bridging the gap when you are trying to establish yourself long-term in a foreign city. There are a number of groups that meet for social networking, and a range of expat forums that cater to connecting English-speakers overseas.

Try joining ExpatBucharest, whose MeetUp page you can find at: http://www.meetup.com/expatbucharest/.