Bucharest
After a few days in Sofia, Bulgaria to hike Rila lakes, I took a train north to Bucharest. I did not know anything about Romania prior to entering this country, and I was shocked to find architecture that looked more like Western Europe than anything I had seen in the Balkans.
I learned more about the history of French influence on the Monarchy and Communism free walking tour, which I highly reccomend. It was incredibly interesting to hear about extremely recent history that included government systems that feel so out of date.
One building in particular, the Parliament building, was erected during communism in Romania.
This controversial building is massive, the largest administrative building second only to the Pentagon. However, over 50,000 Romanian people were displaced so that their homes could be destroyed and those materials could be used for the palace. Extremely interesting.
Brasov
Brasov was absolutely the cutest town. The cobblestone streets, classically inspired architecture, and rows of coffeeshops made for relaxing days wandering the city.
La Ceaun was such a good restaurant that I went twice. They serve traditional Romanian food including stuffed cabbage rolls that are a must-try if you are visiting Romania.
Above the city are Hollywood-style letters that announce the name of the city. You can hike to these letters thirty minutes or so, and the view is excellent. There is also a cable car that you can take for the same experience with less walking.
Finally, I took a day trip to Peles castle just south of Brasov in the city of Sinaia. I had originally planned to visit Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle) but learned that Vlad the Impaler's only connection to this palace was two days that he spent imprisoned there.
Peles is a more beautiful and less touristy castle that offers excellent tours. Due to Romanian monarchy being so recent, this castle was unlike anything I had ever seen, with running water, outlets, and electric chandeliers. The
The tour of the castle explores rooms that have themes from different time periods and different regions of the world. I was very impressed!
Cluj-Napoca
My final stop in Romania was to Cluj-Napoca. This little city does not have a lot to do, but the vibe of the area is so enjoyable that almost everyone extended their stay if they were able.
I stayed at the Transylvania Hostel, which had an excellent location and even better staff. Just down the street from the hostel is a juice bar that I developed the habit of stopping at every day. For 12RON (USD$3) they blend you a huge cup of fresh juice. It was the best way to start the day!
Cluj-Napoca is known for a Salt Mine that houses a lake and an amusement park and a haunted forest, but I did neither. My four nights to decompress here were an absolute dream, and I made excellent friends in the meantime.
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