Living in 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," replied an expat 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 in Chisinau.

"Moldova is a small country located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Romania and Ukraine. It is a former Soviet Republic and the official language is Romanian. The currency is the Moldovan Leu (MDL). Moldova has a temperate continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The cost of living in Moldova is relatively low compared to other European countries. It is important to research the local laws and regulations before moving to Moldova, as well as the visa requirements for expats. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural differences between Moldova and other countries," remarked one in Moldova.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Moldova is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Imobiliare.md, Imot.md, and Casa.md are popular resources for finding rental properties in Moldova. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Vkontakte. It is also possible to find a place to live in Moldova by asking around in your local community or by contacting a real estate agent," explained one expat living in Moldova.

"Expat homes and apartments in Moldova tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and cable television. Expats often choose to live in larger cities such as Chisinau, where they can find a variety of housing options, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Many expats also choose to live in smaller towns and villages, where they can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle and experience the local culture," remarked one in Moldova.

"The cost of housing in Moldova varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in Moldova is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Prices for apartments in the capital city of Chisinau range from around $200 to $500 per month, while prices for apartments in other cities and towns are usually lower," said a person 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 person in Chisinau.

"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," remarked one expat in Moldova.

"When moving to Moldova, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Moldova has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. It is also important to pack any necessary medications, as well as any important documents such as passports and visas. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items from home to make the transition easier, such as photos, books, and other personal items. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary electronics, such as a laptop or phone, as well as any necessary adapters and chargers," explained one expat living in 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," explained one expat.

"There are a lot of jobs for expats teaching English or doing editing work. Moldovans are highly educated and place great emphasis on educational standards. Agriculture is central to the economy, though, so there are a significant number of jobs in agricultural consulting, micro-enterprise development, as well as university level teaching," replied an expat in Chisinau.

"Foreigners often have jobs in Moldova in the fields of teaching, hospitality, IT, and business. They may also work in the agricultural sector, as well as in the construction and manufacturing industries. Additionally, many foreigners find employment in the service sector, such as in restaurants, hotels, and retail stores," remarked one in Moldova.

"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," explained one expat living in 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," said one expat in Chisinau.

"Expats in Moldova appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage, which includes a variety of traditional music, dance, and art. They also enjoy the warm hospitality of the local people, who are known for their friendliness and willingness to help. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's stunning natural beauty, with its rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque villages. Finally, Moldova's vibrant cities offer a wide range of activities and attractions, from museums and galleries to lively nightlife and delicious cuisine," said one person in Moldova.

"Expats in Moldova often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the lack of familiarity with the local customs and traditions can be difficult to adjust to. Furthermore, the slower pace of life and the lack of modern amenities can be a challenge for those used to a more fast-paced lifestyle. Finally, the lack of a strong expat community can make it difficult for expats to find support and make connections," explained one expat living in 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," replied an expat in 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," remarked one in Chisinau.

"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," explained one expat.

"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," remarked one expat living in with children attending .