Bucharest, Romania

"- Know the cost of living in Bucharest to help plan your budget. Research in advance the quality of health care and availability of private health insurance. - Learn about Romanian government benefits and retirement schemes. Ensure that you will be able to access your pension and other social services when moving abroad. - Become familiar with the local environment in Bucharest. Knowing the transportation system, language, culture, housing options and other social activities that you can participate in could help with your transition in settling in Bucharest. - Research and plan the type of Visa that is necessary when moving to Bucharest. Understand the regulations of immigrating to Romania before relocating to ensure that you have the required documents required for staying in the country. - Locate a safe area to live in and consider the healthcare facilities nearby. Also look into the different shopping and recreational venues available in Bucharest. - Think about the preservation of your rights when retiring. It is important to understand your rights and be aware of the taxes and legal implications for retirement in Romania. - Find out about the visa requirements when traveling to and from Romania from different countries. Plan in advance for any necessary travel and medical documents that may be needed when visiting other countries," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"My advice would mostly depend upon the person's situation. Most single men I know love Bucharest. Most families with small children like Bucharest because of the affordability of domestic help. Nursery schools are plentiful and inexpensive. But the life in Bucharest can wear on you. I know many people who have spent their life living overseas and are frustrated by this city. The traffic and the blatant disregard of the rules of the road are frustrating. While the traffic here is no worse than any major city (and certainly not worse than WDC or New York City), the drivers seem to care only about where they need to go and what they need to do to get there. Lane patterns, the color of stop lights, pedestrians in the road, tram tracks all mean nothing to most Romanian drivers. Service in restaurants is unbelievably slow. At some point you get used to being ignored. Trying to find someone to help you in a store with a question you have is impossible. The general attitude of seeming to not care is frustrating. Yet Romanians are genuinely nice people, which seems to contradict all of what I have just said. They have big hearts if you have a relationship with them," said one expat in Bucharest.

"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," wrote one member in Bucharest.

"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," remarked one expat who made the move to 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," said one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"Through aquaintances. Met some international exchange students and kept in contact with them shrough social networks," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"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," said one expat in Bucharest.

"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 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," wrote one member 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," remarked one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"There are plenty of ways to meet people in Bucharest! You can start by joining local groups or clubs in the area that focus on activities you are interested in. Taking a class or signing up for a group activity can also help you meet new people. If you're interested in exploring the nightlife, attending events or joining a pub or bar crawl can offer a great opportunity to socialize. Attending festivals, exploring parks and public spaces, or taking a walking tour are also great ways to meet people. Making a profile on sites such as Meetup or Couchsurfing can also help you connect with locals and other people who came to the city," remarked one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"The International Women's Association is a great place to meet female expats from all walks of life, including from the host country. IWA is extremely involved in charity work and hosts an annual bazaar in December, which is the highlight of the organization's year. Moms with small children have several baby groups from which to choose, both in the suburbs by the American school and in the city," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"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," wrote a member in 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," commented one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"In order to set up a bank account in Bucharest, you will need to visit a local bank branch in the city and speak to a representative. Generally, you will need to provide proof of identification, address, and other supporting documentation in order to begin the process. Typically, you can find a suitable bank through internet searches or by asking around for local recommendations. Once you have all the necessary documents, you can start the paperwork for setting up the bank account," wrote one member in Bucharest.

"Bucharest is mainly filled with affiliates of large, international companies. French is a popular language here, it is tought in scools. If you also take into accout the low labour costs, you get a perfect arial for supportive affiliates, such as for IT and customer support," commented one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"It is possible to find a job in Bucharest. The city is the Romanian capital and is home to a variety of large and small businesses, as well as a vibrant start-up scene. Many jobs are available in the services and financial sectors, as well as in manufacturing and IT. Expats with specialised skills may have an easier time finding work, but there are many opportunities available to those from all backgrounds. In addition to searching online for jobs, it is also possible to secure employment through networking, attending job fairs and reaching out to employers directly," remarked one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"Bucharest is an increasingly popular destination for expats and digital nomads, offering a vibrant and diverse culture, a low cost of living, and a great quality of life. The city is home to a large international community, with many expats and digital nomads taking advantage of the city's excellent infrastructure, including reliable public transportation, high-speed internet, and a wide range of coworking spaces. Expats and digital nomads in Bucharest can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city's many parks and museums to sampling the local cuisine. The city also offers a variety of cultural events, from music festivals to art exhibitions, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a new culture," said one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"Expats are here because of work, period. I don't know anyone who comes to Bucharest because they love the city. Having said that, most people here have good travel schedules. While travel in Romania is difficult because of the poor condition of the infrastructure, Romania is a short and relatively inexpensive plane ride from nearly all of Europe. Direct flights are available to nearly every European capital, as well as some of the larger Asian and North African capitals as well. On weekends, Bucharest's clubs are full of young people who love to stay out dancing until 4 a.m. The restaurants continue to open and improve by the week. There are a lot of good ones from which to choose, and that are not too expensive," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"Expats in Bucharest often appreciate the diversity and hospitality of the local culture. From the welcoming and friendly locals to the vibrant street food culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city is steeped in Eastern-European history, yet has a contemporary flavour. From the beautiful art galleries and renowned architecture to the vibrant music and nightlife scene, Bucharest has a very tolerant and diverse atmosphere that many expats enjoy. Additionally, its affordability and relatively low cost of living compared with other European cities make it ideal for those who want to live an expat life in Europe," commented one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"Expats often find settling in and adjusting to a new culture challenging. This includes adopting new customs and familiarizing themselves with laws and regulations. In addition, mastering the language and learning the basics of daily life in a new country can be difficult for those who do not speak the language. Furthermore, expats can struggle to make friends and find ways to build a support network. Establishing trust with colleagues and finding a job can also be a challenge, especially if they are unfamiliar with the local job market. Social isolation, a lack of cultural understanding, homesickness, and a lack of access to services they are accustomed to are all potential sources of difficulty," wrote a member in Bucharest.

"Trash everywhere, Strays dogs (they killed my beagle puppy) and the way the drive (dear lord, they drive crazy)," commented one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

"Crime is an issue in Bucharest, particularly in certain neighbourhoods. Although violent crime is rare, petty theft and pickpocketing are fairly common, especially around major tourist attractions and public transportation hubs. As in any city, vigilance and common-sense safety measures should be exercised when travelling in Bucharest," remarked one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"Bucharest is a vibrant, diverse city, with a majority Romanian population, sizeable Hungarian and Romani minority populations, as well as expatriate communities from countless countries around the world. People in Bucharest are generally open-minded and accepting of diversity; however, there are some areas of the city that may be less open, so it is important to be aware of one's environment," remarked one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"Romanians are not the most accepting of other cultures. That is not to say they are prejudiced--my personal belief is that they don't have a lot of knowledge about other cultures because this society was completely closed for 40 years under Communist rule. With Romania's new president, Traian Basescu, I imagine Romanian society will gradually become more accepting to people from all walks of life," wrote one member in Bucharest.

"Schools in Bucharest vary widely in terms of size, curriculum, and facilities.Public schools in Bucharest are state-funded and free to attend, and most offer general and vocational education in English, French and German. Private schools in Bucharest include international schools catering mainly to expatriates, private day schools and boarding schools, as well as other private institutions. Many of these schools provide a multicultural learning environment and follow an international curriculum such as the International Baccalaureate (IB). In addition to their regular classes, some schools also offer extracurricular activities like sports and music," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"Make an appointment and take the whole family along - the children will give you feedback about their views. Have questions ready in advance and ask lots of them. The school has a policy of honesty so do not expect 'soft' answers adapted to your own circumstances. The school knows what it does and does it well," said one parent with children at International School for Primary Education in Bucharest.

"Expats and digital nomads generally like the low cost of living in Bucharest, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. They appreciate the affordable housing options, inexpensive public transportation, and reasonably priced food and entertainment options. The city's rich history and architecture are also attractive to expats and digital nomads, who enjoy exploring the mix of old and new buildings, museums, and historical sites. Bucharest's vibrant arts and culture scene, with its numerous galleries, theaters, and festivals, is another draw for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Bucharest's growing tech scene and coworking spaces are appealing to digital nomads, who can easily find a community of like-minded individuals and workspaces that cater to their needs. The city's reliable internet and widespread Wi-Fi availability make it easy for remote workers to stay connected. The central location of Bucharest within Europe is another advantage, as it allows for easy travel to other European destinations. The city's public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro, is generally efficient and easy to navigate. However, there are some aspects of living in Bucharest that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The city's traffic can be chaotic and congested, making driving a challenge for those not used to the local driving habits. Air pollution is also a concern, particularly during the colder months when many residents use wood or coal for heating. The language barrier can be an issue for some expats and digital nomads, as not everyone in Bucharest speaks English. This can make it difficult to navigate certain situations, such as dealing with bureaucracy or finding housing. Additionally, some expats and digital nomads may find the customer service in Bucharest to be lacking, as it may not be as attentive or friendly as they are accustomed to in their home countries. Finally, the city's stray dog population can be a nuisance and a safety concern for some residents," wrote one expat living in Bucharest.

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in Bucharest, typically enjoy a vibrant and diverse social life. They often connect with fellow expats and locals through various social events, language exchange programs, and cultural activities. Many join clubs, organizations, or online forums to meet like-minded individuals and share experiences. Bucharest offers a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants where expats can socialize and make new friends. Additionally, the city's rich cultural heritage and numerous attractions provide ample opportunities for sightseeing and leisure activities. Overall, the welcoming atmosphere and affordable cost of living in Bucharest make it an attractive destination for expats, retirees, and digital nomads seeking a fulfilling social life," wrote one expat living in Bucharest.

"The social scene in Bucharest, is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of traditional and modern experiences. The city is known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants staying open late into the night. Bucharest is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with theaters, galleries, and museums showcasing both local and international talent. Romanians are generally warm and friendly, making it easy for visitors to strike up conversations and make new friends. The city has a strong café culture, with locals often gathering in cozy coffee shops to socialize and catch up with friends. Additionally, Bucharest hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating music, film, and other cultural aspects, which provide excellent opportunities for socializing and experiencing the local culture. In recent years, Bucharest has also seen a rise in the number of expats and digital nomads, leading to a more international and multicultural social scene. This has resulted in a growing number of language exchange events, meetups, and networking opportunities for both locals and foreigners. Overall, the social scene in Bucharest is lively and welcoming, offering a wide range of experiences for both locals and visitors to enjoy," said one expat.

"Expats in Bucharest advise newcomers to research the different neighborhoods before deciding on a place to live, as each area has its own unique character and amenities. They recommend considering factors such as proximity to work, public transportation, schools, and shopping centers. It is also suggested to visit the neighborhoods in person to get a feel for the atmosphere and safety. When searching for housing, expats often recommend using local real estate agents, online platforms, and social media groups to find available properties. They also suggest being prepared to negotiate rental prices and terms, as landlords may be open to bargaining. Expats emphasize the importance of carefully reviewing rental contracts and ensuring that all agreed-upon terms are clearly stated in writing. They also advise having a local Romanian speaker to help with translation and understanding of the legal terms. When it comes to the type of housing, expats in Bucharest often prefer apartments or houses within gated communities, as they tend to offer better security and amenities. However, they also mention that older buildings may have issues with heating, plumbing, and insulation, so it is essential to inspect the property thoroughly before signing a lease. Lastly, expats recommend being prepared for the bureaucracy involved in setting up utilities and other services, as the process can be time-consuming and may require multiple visits to various offices. They also suggest getting to know your neighbors, as they can be a valuable source of information and support during your time in Bucharest," said an expat 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," remarked one expat in Bucharest.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Bucharest, can be considered relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Public healthcare is funded through a social health insurance system, which covers most basic medical services for citizens. However, the quality of public healthcare can vary, and waiting times for certain treatments may be long. Many residents opt for private healthcare, which offers better facilities and shorter waiting times but comes at a higher cost. Private health insurance is available and can be more expensive than public insurance, but it provides access to a wider range of services and specialists. Overall, healthcare and health insurance costs in Bucharest are generally manageable, but the quality of care may vary depending on the chosen provider," mentioned one expat inBucharest.

"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," said one expat.