Living in Moldova

"Be aware of the language issue - Russian tends to be the language of commerce, but it's also seen by many as the language of oppression. Only around 13% of the population is ethnic Russian. The majority are Moldovan and speak Romanian (though Russians call it "Moldovan," in an effort to impose psychological separation between Romania and Moldova). It's a touchy issue, entwined in the country's history. Make sure to visit the wineries - they're amazing, and during the summer and fall do most of your food shopping at the outdoor markets - the prices are cheap and you'll get some of the best produce you've ever had. Bring with you a good pair of jeans, and some smart clothes. People dress up for all types of occasions, and just walking down the street is like walking through a fashion magazine. But you also wonder where they get this stuff, because the selection you find in stores and at the market is meager and overpriced. You can get a good winter coat cheap over there, but take a good pair of lined, waterproof boots with you for winter. Take with you any kitchen tools you can't live without, though now you can get things like a garlic press and can opener. If you're going to take electrical appliances, also take an adapter. Good medicines are easy to find, just don't be afraid to ask the pharmacist what they recommend for your symptoms. Lasagna noodles and pepperoni were the 2 foods we could never ever find, but most everything else could be either found or approximated. Tupperware, on the other hand, is scarce and expensive," remarked one expat living in Chisinau, Moldova.

"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Moldova before retiring there, as it is generally lower than in other countries. 2. It is important to understand the local language, as English is not widely spoken in Moldova. 3. Expats should also be aware of the local laws and regulations, as well as the visa requirements for staying in the country. 4. Healthcare in Moldova is generally of a good standard, but expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage. 5. Expats should also research the local culture and customs, as well as the climate, to ensure they are prepared for life in Moldova," wrote one member in Moldova.

"Expats in Moldova often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, book clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as to attend networking events and meetups. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and striking up conversations with locals," explained one expat living in Moldova.

"The most famous attractions are Wine cellars, clubs. I recommend visiting in period May-October, to fond an extremely lovely green city such as Chisinau. The prices for food are from very low (local production) to average (for some imported goods), for services are quite low," said one expat in Chisinau.

"Moldova is becoming increasingly popular with expats and digital nomads due to its low cost of living, friendly locals, and stunning landscapes. Expats and digital nomads in Moldova can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the country's culture and history. The country is also well-connected, with good internet speeds and a variety of coworking spaces available. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of Moldova's vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Overall, Moldova is an ideal destination for those looking for a unique and affordable place to live and work," commented one expat who made the move to Moldova.

"It's much more laid back than the states. The pace of life is slower, family is of utmost importance, and people make sure to take time out for social gatherings - often, in summer, in the forest for "shashlyk," or a type of shishkabob," remarked one expat living in Chisinau, Moldova.

"Moldova has seen an increase in crime in recent years, with reports of organized crime, human trafficking, and corruption. The country has also experienced a rise in violent crime, including robberies, burglaries, and assaults. In addition, there have been reports of fraud, cybercrime, and drug-related offenses," commented one expat who made the move to Moldova.

"The people are remarkably homogeneous. Be prepared for unabashed stares if you don't fit the typical mold. A lot of people judge based on appearance, but are willing to make friends regardless, and a friend will stick by you no matter what," explained one expat living in Chisinau, Moldova.

"Moldova is a culturally diverse country, with a population made up of many different ethnicities, including Moldovans, Ukrainians, Russians, Gagauz, Bulgarians, and Roma. People in Moldova are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between its various ethnic groups," said one expat in Moldova.

"The International School of Moldova (ISM) is one of the best international schools in Moldova. Located in Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, ISM offers a comprehensive education in English for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS). ISM also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The American International School of Chisinau (AIS) is another excellent international school in Moldova. AIS offers a bilingual education in English and Romanian, and follows the American curriculum. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). AIS also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International Bilingual School of Chisinau (IBSC) is a great bilingual school in Moldova. IBSC offers a bilingual education in English and Romanian, and follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the European Council of International Schools (ECIS). IBSC also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," wrote an expat with kids at in .

"The cost of living in Moldova is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and utilities are generally lower than in other European countries. Rent prices can vary depending on the location, but are generally quite reasonable. Eating out is also relatively inexpensive, with a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costing around $15," wrote one member in Moldova.

"The cost of living in Moldova is generally quite low compared to other countries in Europe. However, the cost of living in the capital city of Chisinau is higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Chisinau is around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Moldova will cost around $10 USD per person," wrote one expat living in Moldova.

"Moldova offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. Popular activities include hiking and camping in the country's many forests and parks, as well as swimming and sunbathing at the many beaches along the Black Sea. There are also numerous sports facilities, including tennis courts, football fields, and basketball courts. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to explore. Additionally, Moldova is home to a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theaters," said an expat in Moldova.

"The climate in Moldova is generally temperate continental, with warm summers and mild winters. The average temperature in summer is around 25°C (77°F), while in winter it can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being June and July. Snowfall is common in winter, especially in the northern and eastern parts of the country," said one expat.

"One of the most popular restaurants in Moldova is La Placinte, located in Chisinau. This restaurant specializes in traditional Moldovan cuisine, such as placinte (stuffed pancakes), mamaliga (cornmeal porridge), and sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls). The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as Italian pasta and Mexican tacos. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant in Moldova is La Taifas, located in Chisinau. This restaurant serves a variety of traditional Moldovan dishes, such as mamaliga, sarmale, and ciorba (soup). The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as Italian pizza and French crepes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Finally, the restaurant La Placinte is located in Chisinau. This restaurant specializes in traditional Moldovan cuisine, such as placinte, mamaliga, and sarmale. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as Italian pasta and Mexican tacos. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive," mentioned one expat inMoldova.

"People living in Moldova typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for items such as clothing, electronics, and home goods. Additionally, there are a variety of specialty stores throughout the country that offer unique items," remarked one expat in Moldova.

"In order to visit Moldova, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and other supporting documents such as a letter of invitation from a Moldovan citizen or a hotel reservation. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Moldova, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Migration and Asylum Bureau. The application must include a valid passport, a valid visa, proof of financial means, and a medical certificate. The applicant must also provide a criminal record certificate from their home country. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," said one expat living in Moldova.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Moldova can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the state health insurance system. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the quality of healthcare in Moldova is not always up to the standards of other countries, and the cost of medical treatments can be high. As a result, many people in Moldova are unable to access the healthcare they need due to the cost," mentioned one expat inMoldova.