For many of you, the first thing that comes to mind when you hear Romania is “Transylvania”—home of the infamous and dreaded fictional vampire, Count Dracula. It's enough to send chills down your spine.
But there is much more to Romania than just Castle Dracula. This pristine Eastern European nation is a wonderful mix of vibrant forests, enthralling monasteries, and rugged hills and mountains. The winding Danube river is a treat for your eyes, while the capital city of Bucharest is throbbing with energy. Before you head off to explore all Romania has to offer, be sure to purchase travel medical insurance as protection against any unforeseen illnesses, injuries, or accidents on the trip.
Romania Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
A sudden accident or physical ailment ruining your much-awaited vacation is a most unwelcome situation. But sadly, no one is immune to such possibilities. We can't do much about such incidents. But we can definitely protect ourselves from the resultant high medical expenses—we can opt for travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Romania?
It's not legally required for you to buy travel medical insurance to visit Romania. However, it is highly advisable to do so. Medical treatment in a foreign country and emergency medical evacuation can burn a hole in your pocket. But travel medical insurance ensures your peace of mind by helping to protect you from such financial blows.
Please note that as of March 31, 2024 Romania will officially join the Schengen agreement. After this date all Schengen visa insurance requirements will go into effect for travelers to Romania.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Romania?
The medical setup in Romania is not incompetent, but it also doesn't rank among the best. The private facilities would be quite expensive, too. Hence, do buy travel medical insurance before you board the flight to Romania.
Things to Do for Travelers in Romania
Beautiful Romania has something to offer every type of traveler. There are castle and monastery trips for the historically-inclined. Couch potatoes can relax in the mountain resorts. The adventure-minded can go hiking and skiing (depending on the season) in the mountains spread across the horizon. Whatever you indulge in, you can enjoy your Romania trip to your heart's content in your own unique way.
Bran Castle
Known the world over as “Castle Dracula”, this is perhaps the most-visited site in the entire country. The castle, home to Romania's Queen Mary, dates back to the 13th century. It served as a kind of rampart to protect the nearby city of Brasov and the Carpathian crossing from outside invaders. The 57 rooms of the castle are filled with medieval artifacts, furniture, and weaponry for you to marvel at.
Brukenthal National Museum
Located in the culturally-rich Sibiu, the museum was originally the residence of the Saxon aristocrat Samuel von Brukenthal, who lived here in the 18th century. His imposing collection of several thousand European paintings is available to view in the museum today. From Sibiu, you can make day trips to sights such as Sighisoara, Corvin Castle, and the Transfagarasan Highway, just to name a few. Each of them is a crowd-puller in its own right. You can also expose your taste buds to some exotic and authentic Romanian cuisine in Sibiu and the nearby villages.
Danube Delta
This World Heritage Site can give the Bran Castle a run for its money as the most popular tourist spot in Romania. This UNESCO-protected biosphere, spread across 3,000 square kilometers (about 1,158 square miles), is among the best-preserved deltas in the world. This delta welcomes you with its unspoiled wild scenery, marshlands, and picturesque canals. The Danube Delta is home to more than 300 species of birds between April and October. Bird-watchers and photographers flock to this place by the dozens. Once you have explored this beautiful place, don't forget to taste some delectable fish preparations at the homes of the inviting and charming local people.
Watching brown bears
Romania has the largest population of brown bears in all of Europe. The vast forests and mountains spread across the Carpathian landscape offer you excellent opportunities for watching these gorgeous animals in their natural habitat. Apart from brown bears, many other animals like lynx, wolves, foxes, and deer have also made their home in these areas. Visit the nearby Piatra Craiului National Park for some hiking activities.
Merry Cemetery
This is a most unusual cemetery, as it takes a funny and happy approach to death. Instead of the somber sight that greets you at most cemeteries, here you would get to see colorful oak panels consisting of funny poems that tell you the story of how the deceased person lived his/her life. The cemetery is located in the village of Sapanta in the Maramures region. Don't forget to visit the local artisan who makes the panels—he's sure to have a wealth of anecdotes to share with you.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Romania
Overall, the risk factors in Romania are low. The local people are cordial and welcoming towards tourists. The country ranks among the threat-free nations in the world. However, it would still be prudent to not let down your guard. As the saying goes, better safe than sorry.
- Thieves operate on intercity trains. So, if you take one, don't leave your luggage unattended. Lock your compartment from inside, and avoid traveling alone on overnight trains. Thefts happen in hotel rooms as well. Don't leave your room unlocked, and keep your valuables under lock and key.
- Cases of ATM fraud and purse snatchings are not uncommon. So, select only those ATMs for transactions that are located in well-lit areas or within the bank branches. Don't let anyone else handle your card.
- Use licensed and metered taxis only. Ensure that the correct tariff is displayed inside the car. Try not to flag down taxis on the road. Instead, hire one through the hotel where you are staying. You might also use the services authorized travel agents or car rental services.
- Don't leave your food and drink unattended at a bar or restaurant, and don't leave it in the company of a stranger. You run the risk of getting your food or drink spiked. The consequences might be a robbery and/or sexual assault.
Before You Travel to Romania - Do This
Some important points for you to keep in mind before making the trip:
Don't keep all your cash and plastic money in one place.
Be sure to check the political and other related conditions in Romania at all times.