Moving to Bucharest, Romania

"Prior to moving to Bucharest, it is important to be aware of the people, climate, culture, and economy of the city. Bucharest is a multicultural city with a diverse population, including Romanians, Hungarians, Roma, and more. The climate is a temperate continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Bucharest is a vibrant city with a culture that is heavily influenced by its historical ties to the Western world. The economy of Bucharest is stable with a low unemployment rate. It is also important to acquire information about the cost of living, the transportation system, and the housing market in the city. Additionally, making sure to acquire the proper visas or permits for residence is also essential before moving to Bucharest," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"I enjoy the Obor area, because it has all I need, including the biggest grocery market in the city, but has fair prices for the accommodation. I would suggest searching for a place both next to metro stations and parks. Because public transport is doomed to be trappet in rush hour trafic and parks, such as Herastrau, grant an escape from the busy streets, especially for those who come from smaller cities. The far North of the city, above Herastrau park, has the richest area with new apartments. The rest of the city is filled with communistic buildings with simple flats," said one expat in Bucharest.

"Finding a suitable place to live in Bucharest depends on many factors such as budget, desired location, and required facilities. The most common way of finding accommodation in Bucharest is by searching online. There are many websites such as Airbnb, Spotahome, Homeaway and Booking.com that offer convenient and affordable housing for any requirements or preferences. Additionally, there are a variety of private listings including Facebook groups, Magazine classifieds and online forums. Real estate agents can also be contacted to find appropriate accommodation in Bucharest. Additionally, free accommodation can be found by participating in homestay programs and exchanges," replied a member in Bucharest.

"Through aquaintances. Met some international exchange students and kept in contact with them shrough social networks," commented one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"Expat homes and apartments in Bucharest are typically modern and well-maintained, with many new developments offering high-quality amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and communal areas. Common features include an open plan layout, spacious bedrooms, and balcony or terrace areas. Many apartments and homes feature cutting-edge technology and a modern, stylish interior design. Most homes are located near parks, shops, and restaurants, making them ideal for expats seeking a convenient yet culturally rich city lifestyle," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"I live in a rented flat on the 9th floor. It's a renovated 3-room apartment in a communistic block and I share it with 2 other expat, one of which is a colleague of mine, the other - a firend of a colleague. It's quite typical to share apartments, because most expats work in a more or less international environment with other expat folks. Also, compared to food prices at a market, for example, I find apartments to be disproportionately expensive. Especially when renting a studio," said one expat in Bucharest.

"The cost of housing in Bucharest varies depending on the area and type of property. Generally, apartments in the city centre cost more than those outside of the centre, with prices ranging from around €400-€1,000 per month for apartments, and €500-€2,000 per month for houses," said one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"The housing costs are a little higher than in Latvia. The cost for a studio is the same. But a multiple room apartment outside the city center in Riga should be a bit cheeper. Even if there isn't a big difference in the price, the salary rates vary a bit more for the disadvantage of Bucharest... We pay a monthly fee of 2100 lei - 470 Euro for rent+utilities for a simple 3 room apartment between the downtown and outskirts. Simple studios are around around 250 - 350 Euro," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"Making the decision to buy or rent a home in Bucharest depends on a variety of factors. If you are looking for a long-term housing solution, you should consider buying a home. The cost of buying a home in Bucharest is relatively low compared to other global cities, and there are several loan options available. Depending on your financial situation, you may be able to get a loan for an amount close to the purchase price. If you are looking for a short-term solution or you are still not sure about the place you want to live in, renting may be a better option. The cost of renting in Bucharest is very affordable, and you can often look for temporary accommodations, like apartments in a guesthouse. Ultimately, after taking into account all factors, it is up to you to decide whether buying or renting a home in Bucharest is the best option for you," commented one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"When moving to Bucharest it is important to pack warm clothing, since the weather can be quite cold during colder seasons. Having an umbrella and waterproof clothing is also recommended in case of unexpected rain. It is a good idea to take some essential toiletries, medical supplies, and any items you may need for daily life. Additionally, the necessary documents and paperwork such as passport or visa will be needed. Will you be bringing any furniture? Be sure to secure proper transportation for your belongings if need be. Do not forget to pack any electronic adapters needed for charging electronic devices, and ensure that you identify any language/cultural information you may need," said one expat in Bucharest.

"WISH I HAD BROUGHT: More books in my language (there are none here), computer mouse (spending more time alone made me use my laptop more), ice skates. WISH I HAD LEFT AT HOME: Creams and all those body care products, A dress that I hoped to get into again after miraculously loosing some weight, suit," said one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"In Bucharest, it is polite to stand when someone enters a room and to look them in the eye when making introductions. Additionally, it is important to wait for a Romanian to introduce you to someone else, as it is considered improper to introduce yourself. It is also important to dress conservatively and be aware of public displays of affection. Refrain from talking negatively about Romania and the local customs and try to be respectful of religious sensibilities. Finally, asking an excessive amount of questions in formal situations is seen as intrusive, so it is best to keep conversations light and appropriate," replied a member in Bucharest.

"Expats are attracted to move to Bucharest, due to its low cost of living, which allows for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The city is also known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and entertainment. Additionally, Bucharest has a growing job market, particularly in the technology and business sectors, providing ample employment opportunities for expats. The city also boasts a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy for newcomers to integrate and make friends. Furthermore, Bucharest's central location in Europe allows for easy travel to other European destinations, making it an ideal base for those who love to explore new places. Finally, Romania's natural beauty, including the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea coast, offers a variety of outdoor activities for expats to enjoy during their time off," commented one expat living in Bucharest.

"Healthcare services in Bucharest, are provided through a mix of public and private facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. The public healthcare system is funded by the National Health Insurance House, which covers a wide range of services for Romanian citizens and residents. However, public hospitals and clinics in Bucharest may face challenges such as outdated infrastructure, long waiting times, and limited resources. On the other hand, private healthcare facilities in Bucharest offer more modern and advanced medical services, with shorter waiting times and better patient care. These private clinics and hospitals often have state-of-the-art equipment, highly trained medical professionals, and a wider range of specialized services. However, private healthcare can be more expensive, and not all services may be covered by the national health insurance. In addition to hospitals and clinics, Bucharest also has numerous pharmacies, dental clinics, and other specialized healthcare providers. Emergency medical services are available through the national emergency number, 112, which connects callers to ambulance services, police, and fire departments. Overall, healthcare services in Bucharest are accessible and diverse, with both public and private options available to residents and visitors. While the public system may face challenges, private facilities offer high-quality care for those who can afford it," wrote one expat living in Bucharest.

"Medical services in Bucharest, are generally of good quality, with both public and private healthcare facilities available. Public hospitals and clinics are often crowded and may have outdated equipment, while private facilities offer more modern amenities and shorter waiting times. The city is home to several well-regarded hospitals and medical centers, staffed by skilled and experienced medical professionals. Many doctors and healthcare providers in Bucharest speak English, making communication easier for foreign patients. However, it is recommended for visitors to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover any potential medical expenses, as the cost of private healthcare can be high. Overall, Bucharest offers a range of medical services to cater to the needs of both residents and visitors," replied one expat when asked about moving to Bucharest.