Lifestyle
Living here: housing, money, family and everyday life.
How to Make Papanași: Romania's Beloved Fried Cheese Doughnuts
Papanași are Romania's answer to the doughnut: golden, crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside, served with soured cream and fruit jam. Here's how to make them at home step by step.
Babele: How Romanians Predict Their Year in the First Nine Days of March
Learn about the folk custom of Babele, when Romanians choose a day between 1 and 9 March to see what the weather foretells for their year ahead.
Home Insurance in Romania: A Practical Guide for Owners and Tenants
Understand the basics of home insurance in Romania, from mandatory catastrophe cover to optional contents policies, and what to do if you need to claim.
Sânzienele: Romania's Midsummer Celebration of Flowers and Fortune
Every June, Romanians honour Sânzienele, a magical night of flower crowns, dancing and love divination that blends ancient custom with modern celebration.
How to Shop at a Romanian Farmers' Market: A Practical Guide
Learn how to navigate a Romanian piață like a local, from bringing the right bags to asking for fresh produce and understanding prices.
A Parent's Guide to Romanian Schools: Enrolment, Terms and What to Expect
Moving to Romania with children? Here's how the school system works, from enrolment paperwork to the rhythm of the academic year.
A Guest's Guide to Romanian Hospitality: What to Bring When Invited
Romanians love to host. Here's how to be a gracious guest, from choosing the right gift to knowing when to take off your shoes.
How to Read a Romanian Address: A Guide to Blocks, Entrances and Apartments
Understanding the format of Romanian addresses—especially the block, entrance and apartment numbers—will save you time and confusion when receiving mail, ordering deliveries or giving directions.
How to Make Murături: Romanian Pickled Vegetables for Winter
Preserve the taste of autumn with this simple guide to making murături, the tangy pickled vegetables that fill Romanian pantries every winter.
How to Open a Bank Account in Romania: A Step-by-Step Guide for Expats
Opening a bank account in Romania is a key step for anyone settling in the country. Here’s what you need to know about documents, account types and the process.
Dragobete: Romania’s Traditional Celebration of Love on February 24
Discover the customs and meaning of Dragobete, the Romanian day of love, and how it differs from Valentine's Day.
A Practical Guide to Romanian Notaries: What They Do and When You Need One
Notaries in Romania handle far more than signatures and stamps. This guide explains their role, common documents they authenticate and how to prepare for a visit.
How to Dye Easter Eggs the Romanian Way: Natural Colours and Traditional Patterns
Discover the art of Romanian Easter egg dyeing, from natural onion-skin reds to intricate wax-resist patterns that have been passed down for generations.
A Guest's Guide to Romanian Weddings: Customs, Gifts and What to Expect
Romanian weddings are lively, generous affairs with customs that go back generations. Here’s what to expect as a guest, from church ceremonies to midnight dances.
Registering with a Family Doctor in Romania: A Practical Guide
New to Romania? Here’s how to find and register with a family doctor (medic de familie) to access state healthcare.
How Romanians Celebrate Christmas Eve: Food, Fasting and Family
Discover the rich traditions of Romanian Christmas Eve, from the meatless festive meal to carol singing and the lighting of the Yule log.
How to Read a Romanian Utility Bill: A Practical Guide
Understanding your monthly utility bills in Romania can be confusing at first. This guide explains the common charges, terms and payment methods so you can manage your household costs with confidence.
A Seasonal Guide to Romanian Produce: What to Buy When
Romania’s markets follow the seasons. This guide helps you choose the freshest local fruits and vegetables throughout the year.