|
|
Bucharest
|
|
In
County Ilfov
|
|
|
The City of Joy
Bucur, meaning Joy, was the mythical shepherd who founded Bucharest
before it began to be used by successive Wallachian princes to become
the thriving capital it is today.
Called "Paris of the East" during it's Golden Age between the world
wars, Bucharest today retains it's gems of architecture and spirit,
as big as Houston and with the third largest transportation network
in Europe.
By European standards Bucharest is not an old city, its existence
first being referred to by scholars as late as 1459. Since then it has
gone through a variety of changes, becoming the state capital of Romania
in 1862 and steadily consolidating its position as the centre of the
Romanian mass media, culture and arts. Its eclectic architecture is
a mix of historical, interbellum, Communist-era, and modern.
In the period between the two World Wars, the city's elegant architecture
and the sophistication of its elite earned Bucharest the nickname of
the "Paris of the East" or "Little Paris" (Micul Paris). Although many
buildings and districts in the historic centre were damaged or destroyed
by war, earthquakes and Nicolae Ceauşescu's program of systematization,
much survived.
In recent years, the city has been experiencing an economic and
cultural boom.
The city is administratively known as the Municipality of Bucharest
(Municipiul Bucureşti), and has the same administrative level as a county,
being further subdivided into six sectors.
The six sectors are numbered from one to six and are disposed radially
so that each one has under its administration an area of the city center.
They are numbered clockwise and are further divided into districts without
any form of administration (cartiere):
Sector 1: Băneasa, Pipera, Floreasca
Sector 2: Pantelimon, Colentina, Iancului, Muncii, Tei
Sector 3: Vitan, Dudeşti, Titan, Centrul Civic
Sector 4: Berceni, Olteniţei, Văcăreşti
Sector 5: Rahova, Ferentari, Cotroceni
Sector 6: Giuleşti, Drumul Taberei, Militari, Crângaşi
Like all other local councils in Romania, the Bucharest sectorial
councils, the city's General Council and the mayors are elected every
four years by the population.
Additionally, Bucharest has a prefect, who is appointed by Romania's
central government. The prefect is not allowed to be a member of a political
party. The prefect's role is to represent the national government at
local level, acting as a liaison and facilitating the implementation
of National Development Plans and governing programmes at local level.
The current prefect of Bucharest (as of 2006) is Mioara Mantale.
The Municipality of Bucharest, along with the surrounding Ilfov
county, forms the Bucharest development region, which is equivalent
to NUTS-II regions in the European Union and is used by the European
Union and the Romanian Government for statistical analysis and regional
development. The Bucharest development region is not, however, an administrative
entity.
- Every time I visit this place, I feel the same. Maybe it's because of
the elegant flower beds, the winding paths and the ambitious chatter of
happy kids. Or maybe it's the young lovers who paddle rowing boats, the
skeletal old ladies who gossip on benches of battered wood, or the
grim-faced men who huddle around stone tables playing chess.
- Whatever it is, every time I walk through
Cişmigiu
gardens in the centre of busy, booming
Bucharest, I feel as if
I'm wandering through a painting by a French impressionist. And there is a
connection after all. Wasn't the city once known as Paris of the East?
-
 Crossing
a bridge over the lake, I pause to wonder what Monet would have made of it,
with his canvas and paint, some Sunday afternoon. Kids dawdle about in
their Sunday best nibbling pink clouds of candy floss. Turbo-folk music
booms from a cafe terrace, where waiters and white shirts and black
waistcoats glide on shiny shoes amongst the crowded tables, dispensing
drinks and fixed smiles. Most clients are smoking. The happy chatter and
innocuous silver wisps drift across the lake. It looks like a modern-day
version of Renoir's Luncheon of the Boating Party.
- Under a large tree near the zona de conifere there are couple of lovers
kissing passionately. The young woman sits on the man's knee. At the edge
of the boating lake, knots of people wait quietly on the
debarcader -- the
jetty -- for their turn. Two tiny children are dressed in identical outfits
– denim dungarees and jelly shoes. They gaze towards the centre of the
lake, where a fountain spurts great arcs of water into the air, teasing them
to hurry up and join the fun. One of the kids spins around, hugging
herself.
- I find an empty bench. I take my seat and sit back to ponder the
passage of time. This park has a place in history. It seems the name
Cişmigiu is Turkish in origin. It means the
person responsible for building or maintaining a public fountain.
- And never mind the French Impressionists,
Maxy, Romanian
avant-garde artist from the 20s painted Şomeri pe o
bancă în Cişmigiu: Unemployed on a bench in Cişmigiu. It's an
intriguing picture with a perilous perspective, a captivating blend of light
and shade, action and inactivity, gossip and snoozing. It's in the National
Gallery at
Cluj-Napoca.
- I stop to buy a tiny handful of sunflower seeds from an old lady on a
wooden stool. They're still in their shells. I don't know how to eat them
the way some Romanians do. I always make a mess. As I pass through the
gates to rejoin the real world of busy streets and halting traffic, I
realise two things. First, Cişmigiu is not really a Monet. It's too neat,
too precise for him. No, this park is more like Seurat's
Island of the Grande Jatte.
Justice system
Bucharest's judicial system is similar to that of the Romanian counties.
Each of the six sectors has their own local tribunal, while appeals
from these tribunals' verdicts, and more serious cases, are directed
to the Bucharest Court of Appeals, the city's municipal court. Bucharest
is also home to Romania's supreme court, the High Court of Cassation
and Justice, as well as other national courts such as the Constitutional
Court of Romania and the National Military Tribunal.
Bucharest has its own municipal police force, the Bucharest Police
(Poliţia Bucureşti), which is responsible for policing of crime within
the whole city, and operates a number of special divisions.
The Bucharest Police are headquartered on Ştefan cel Mare Blvd in
the city centre, and has a number of precincts throughout the city.
From 2004 onwards, each sector City Hall also has under its administration
a Community Police force (Poliţia Comunitară), dealing with local community
issues.
Bucharest also houses the General Inspectorate of the Gendarmerie
and the General Inspectorate of the National Police.
Crime
Bucharest's crime rate is rather low in comparison to other European
capital cities, with the number of total offences declining by 51% between
2000 and 2004. In particular, levels of violent crime remain very low,
with 24 murders and 1069 other violent offences taking place in 2004.
Although there have been a number of recent police crackdowns on
organised crime gangs, such as the Cămătaru clan, organised crime generally
has a reduced impact on public life. Petty crime, however, is more common,
particularly in the form of pickpocketing, which occurs mainly on the
city's public transport network.
Additionally, confidence tricks such as the Maradona scam are sometimes
common, especially in regards to tourists, even though the frequency
of these tricks has declined in recent years. Levels of crime are higher
in the southern districts of the city, particularly in Ferentari, a
socially-disadvantaged area mainly inhabited by people of Roma ethnicity.
Although the presence of street children was a problem in Bucharest
in the 1990s, their numbers have declined significantly in recent years,
currently lying at or below the average of major European capital cities.
The same is true for beggars and homeless people, many of them from
the disadvantaged Roma minority.
However, there are still an estimated 1,000 street children in the
city, many of whom engage in petty crime and begging. There has also
been speculation that the street children are recruited by professional
underground networks for criminal purposes. From 2000 onwards, Bucharest
has seen an increase in illegal road races which occur mainly at night
in the city's outskirts or on industrial sites.
A significant problem in the city remains institutional corruption,
which is seen as the most important justice-and-law related problem
in the city. While corruption in Romania has declined in recent years
due to various government efforts, Bucharest's level of institutional
corruption remains somewhat higher than the Romanian average.
If you have some information for us about Bucharest or County Ilfov,
please Let us know about it now!
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
Bucharest
The Town Centre
|
|
|
|
| |
Bucharest has a diverse and growing cultural scene, with cultural
life exhibited in a number of various fields, including the visual arts,
performing arts and nightlife. Unlike other parts of Romania, such as
the Black Sea coast or Transylvania, Bucharest's cultural scene is much
more eclectic, without a defined style, and instead incorporates various
elements of Romanian and international culture.
Bucharest has a number of landmarks that are identified with it
throughout the world. Perhaps the most prominent of these is the Palace
of the Parliament, which was built in the 1980s during the reign of
Communist dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu.
Currently the largest building in Europe and the third-largest in
the world, the Palace houses the Romanian Parliament (the Chamber of
Deputies and Senate), as well as the National Museum of Contemporary
Art. It is also often used as a convention centre.
Another well-known landmark of Bucharest is the Arcul de Triumf
(Triumphal Arch), which was built in 1935 and was modelled after the
Arc de Triomphe in Paris. A newer landmark of the city is the Memorial
of Rebirth, a stylised marble pillar unveiled in 2005 to commemorate
the victims of the Romanian Revolution of 1989, which overthrew Communism.
The abstract monument sparked a great deal of controversy when it
was unveiled, being dubbed with names such as "the toothpick and the
olive," ("măslina-n scobitoare"), as many believed that it didn't symbolise
the revolution well enough.
Aside from these landmarks, Bucharest also has a number of cultural
venues, mentioned below, that are often considered icons of the city,
such as the Romanian Athaeneum.
In terms of visual arts, the city contains a number of museums featuring
both classical and contemporary Romanian art, as well as selected international
works. The National Museum of Art of Romania is perhaps the best-known
of Bucharest museums. It is located in the former royal palace and features
extensive collections of medieval and modern Romanian art, including
works by renowned sculptor Constantin Brâncuşi, as well as a prominent
international collection assembled by the former Romanian royal family.
Other, smaller museums, contain more specialised collections of
works. The Zambaccian Museum, which is situated in the former home of
Armenian-Romanian art collector Krikor H. Zambaccian contains works
by many well-known Romanian artists as well as international artists
such as Paul Cézanne, Eugčne Delacroix, Henri Matisse, Camille Pissarro
and Pablo Picasso.
The Theodor Pallady Museum is situated in one of the oldest surviving
merchant houses in Bucharest and includes many works by Romanian painter
Theodor Pallady as well as a number of European and Oriental furniture
pieces. The Museum of Art Collections contains the collections of a
number of well-known Romanian art aficionados, including Krikor Zambaccian
and Theodor Pallady.
Despite the extensive classical art galleries and museums in the
city, there is also a contemporary arts scene that has become increasingly
prominent in recent times. The National Museum of Contemporary Art (MNAC),
situated in a wing of the Palace of the Parliament, was opened in 2004
and contains a widespread collection of Romanian and international contemporary
art, in a number of expressive forms.
The MNAC also manages the Kalinderu MediaLab, which caters specifically
to multimedia and experimental art. There is also a range of smaller,
private art galleries throughout the city centre.
- My taxi
to Piaţa Unirii takes longer than usual because all the cars slow down to
get a good look at the ornamental fountains.
- Instead of normal water, today
the fountains are gushing water coloured blue, yellow, green, pink,
turquoise, and red.
- The red one gushes in huge bloody arcs, like
Dracula is
spinning the brass taps of slaughter below ground.
-
-- from
the tale "Romania has
Cancer"
Performing arts
Performing arts are one of the strongest cultural elements of Bucharest,
and the city has a number of world-renowned facilities and institutions.
The most prominent is the neoclassical Romanian Athenaeum, which
was founded in 1852, hosts classical music concerts and is home to the
"George Enescu" Philharmonic. Bucharest is also home to the Romanian
National Opera, as well as the I.L. Caragiale National Theatre. Another
well-known theatre in Bucharest is the State Jewish Theatre, which has
gained increasing prominence in recent years due partly to the fact
that it features plays starring world-renowned Romanian-Jewish actress
Maia Morgenstern.
There is also a large number of smaller theatres throughout the
city that cater to specific genres, such as the Comedy Theatre, the
Nottara Theatre, the Odeon Theatre, and the Constantin Tănase Revue
Theatre.
Bucharest is home to Romania's largest recording labels, and is
often the residence of Romanian, and more recently Moldovan, musicians.
The city's music scene is quite eclectic. Many Romanian rock bands of
the 1970s and 1980s, such as Iris and Holograf, continue to be popular,
particularly with the middle-aged, while since the 1990s there has been
growth in the boy band and hip hop genres.
The eclectic pop-rock band Taxi have been gaining international
respect, as has Spitalul de Urgenţă's raucous updating of traditional
Romanian music. While many discos play manele, a Turkish-influenced
type of music that is particularly popular in Bucharest's working class
districts, the city has an increasing jazz and blues scene, and, to
an extent, eurodance/trance and heavy metal/punk.
The city's nightlife, particularly its club scene grew significantly
in the 1990s, and continues to increase. The city does not have a central
nightlife strip, with many entertainment venues dispersed throughout
the city centre. One of the city's best known clubs is the Lăptăria
lui Enache, located above the National Theatre, as well as Fire Club
and Club A.
Traditional culture
Bucharest's culture has, especially in the last 15 years, become
more modern and wordly in comparison to other Romanian cities. Traditional
Romanian culture, however, continues to have an influence in domains
such as theatre and music.
Additionally, Bucharest has two internationally-renowned ethnographic
museums, the Museum of the Romanian Peasant and the open-air Village
Museum. The Village Museum, in Herăstrău Park, contains 272 authentic
buildings and peasant farms from all over Romania.
The Museum of the Romanian Peasant was declared the European Museum
of the Year in 1996, and displays a rich collection of textiles (especially
costumes), icons, ceramics, and other artifacts of Romanian peasant
life.
The Museum of Romanian History is another important museum in Bucharest,
containing a collection of artefacts detailing Romanian history and
culture from the prehistoric times, Dacian era, medieval times and the
modern era.
There are a number of cultural festivals in Bucharest throughout
the year, in various domains, even though most festivals take place
in the summer months of June, July and August. The National Opera organises
the International Opera Festival every year in May and June, which includes
ensembles and orchestras from all over the world.
The Romanian Athaeneum Society hosts the George Enescu Classical
Music Festival at various locations throughout the city in September
every year. Additionally, the Museum of the Romanian Peasant and the
Village Museum organise a number of events throughout the year showcasing
Romanian folk arts and crafts.
In recent years, due to the growing prominence of the Chinese community
in Bucharest, several Chinese cultural events have taken place. The
first officially-organised Chinese festival was the Chinese New Year's
Eve Festival of February 2005 which took place in Nichita Stănescu Park
and was organised by the Bucharest City Hall.
In 2005, Bucharest was the first city in Southeastern Europe to
host the international CowParade, which resulted in dozens of decorated
cow sculptures being placed at various points across the city. Since
2005 Bucharest has its own contemporary art biennale, the Bucharest
Biennale. The current (2006) issue (curated by Zsolt Pétranyi) will
go on until the end of June, the next edition will be in 2008.
The 2000s also saw an increasing visibility of Bucharest gay culture,
with the opening of the Queen's Club, the first LGBT club in the city,
in 2001, and the launch of the annual Bucharest GayFest in 2004. The
city's first gay pride parade was held as part of the 2005 GayFest,
and continues today.
Read more
about Gays and Lesbians in Romania here
The Arcul de Triumf in Little Paris
The crown of King Carol II just visible above
this side portico to the great monument
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Architecture of Bucharest
Bucharest's architecture is highly eclectic due to the many influences
on the city throughout its history.
The city centre is a mixture of medieval, classical and art deco
buildings, utilitarian Communist-era architecture, as well as modern
structures such as skyscrapers and office buildings that were mainly
constructed after 2000.
The Alleyways of Lipşcani
Of the city's medieval architecture, most of what survived into
modern times was destroyed by the Communists and replaced by high-rise
apartment blocks. Still, some historical precincts remain, the most
notable of which is the Lipscani area. This precinct contains buildings
such as Manuc's Inn and the ruins of the Curtea Veche (the Old Court),
and during the Middle Ages was the heart of Bucharest's commercial world.
From the 1970s onwards, the area went through urban decline, and
many historical buildings fell into disrepair. In 2005, the Lipscani
area was entirely pedestrianised and is currently undergoing restoration.
The Golden Age Gems
The city centre has also retained architecture from the late 19th
century and early 20th century, particularly the interwar period, which
is often seen as the "golden age" of Bucharest architecture. During
this time, the city grew significantly in size and sought to emulate
other large European capitals such as Paris.
Two notable buildings from this time are the Creţulescu Palace,
currently housing cultural institutions including UNESCO's European
Centre for Higher Education, and the Cotroceni Palace, the current residence
of the Romanian President. Many large-scale constructions such as Gara
de Nord, the main railway station, and the National Bank of Romania's
headquarters, date from these times.
Restorations
In the 2000s, a wide variety of historic buildings in the city centre
underwent restoration. In some residential areas of the city, particularly
the high-income northern suburbs, there are many turn-of-the-century
villas, most of which were restored after 2000.
The Communist Legacy
A major part of Bucharest's architecture is made up of buildings
constructed during the Communist era replacing the historical arhitecture
with "more efficient" high density apartment blocks.
In Nicolae Ceauşescu's project of systematization many new buildings
were built in previously-historical areas, which were razed and then
built upon from scratch.
One of the best examples of this type of architecture is Centrul
Civic, a development that replaced a major part of Bucharest's historic
city centre with giant utilitarian buildings, mainly with marble or
travertine façades, inspired by North Korean architecture. Communist-era
architecture can also be found in Bucharest's residential districts,
mainly in blocuri, which are high-density apartment blocks that house
the majority of the city's population.
Since the fall of Communism in 1989, several Communist-era buildings
have been refurbished, modernised and used for other purposes. Perhaps
the best example of this is the conversion of several agro-alimentary
complexes into shopping malls and commercial centres. These giant circular
halls, which were most often known as hunger circuses due to the food
shortages experienced in the 1980s, were constructed during the Ceauşescu
era to act as produce markets and refectories, although most were left
unfinished at the time of the Revolution.
All Hail America
Modern shopping malls like Bucharest Mall, Plaza Romania and City
Mall emerged on pre-existent structures of former hunger circuses.
Another example is the modernisation and conversion of a large utilitarian
construction in Centrul Civic into a Marriott Hotel. This process was
accelerated after 2000, when the city underwent a property boom, and
many Communist-era buildings in the city centre became prime real estate
due to their location.
For example, a tram depot built during the Communist times was converted
into a new shopping mall, the Anador Commercial Centre, which opened
in 2005. In recent years, many Communist-era apartment blocks
have also been refurbished to improve the city's urban appearance.
The newest contribution to Bucharest's architecture took place after
the fall of Communism, and particularly after 2000, when the city went
through a period of urban renewal – and architectural revitalisation
– on the back of Romania's economic boom. Buildings from this time are
mostly made out of glass and steel, and often have more than fifteen
storeys.
Examples include shopping malls (particularly the Bucharest Mall,
a conversion and extension of a "hunger circus"), office buildings,
bank headquarters, the Bucharest World Trade Center and the Chamber
of Commerce, which lies on the banks of the Dâmboviţa.
As of 2005, there is a significant number of office buildings in
construction, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the
city.
Additionally, there has been a trend in recent years to add modern
wings and façades to historic buildings, the most prominent example
of which is the Bucharest Architects' Association Building, which is
a modern glass-and-steel construction built inside a historic stone
façade.
Aside from buildings used for business and institutions, various
new residential developments are currently underway, many of which consist
of modern high-rise buildings with a glass exterior, surrounded by American-style
residential communities. These developments are increasingly prominent
in the northern suburbs of the city, which are less densely-populated
and are home to middle- and upper-class Bucharesters due to the process
of gentrification.
Media
Bucharest is the most important centre for the Romanian mass media,
since it is the headquarters of all the national television networks
as well as national newspapers and radio stations.
The largest daily newspapers in Bucharest include Evenimentul Zilei,
Jurnalul Naţional, Cotidianul, România Liberă, Adevărul, Gardianul and
Gândul. During the rush hours, tabloid newspapers Libertatea and Ziarul
are very popular for commuters.
A significant number of newspapers and media publications are based
in Casa Presei Libere (The House of the Free Press) a landmark of northern
Bucharest, originally named Casa Scânteii after the Communist-era official
newspaper Scînteia.
Casa Presei Libere is not the only Bucharest landmark that grew
out of the media and communications industry. Palatul Telefoanelor ("the
telephone palace") was the first major modernist building on Calea Victoriei
in the city's center, and the massive, unfinished communist-era Casa
Radio looms over a park a block away from the Opera.
English-language media became available in Bucharest in the 1990s,
and has become increasingly prominent since 2000. There are two daily
English-language newspapers, Bucharest Daily News and Nine O' Clock,
as well as numerous other magazines. A number of publications in other
languages are also available, such as the Hungarian-language daily Új
Magyar Szó.
Observator Cultural covers the city's arts, and the free weekly
Şapte Seri ("Seven Evenings") and B24FUN lists entertainments of all
sorts. The city is also home to the intellectual journal Dilema and
the satire magazine Academia Caţavencu, as well as the usual array of
commercial magazines one would find in any European capital.
Bucharest is the host city of the fourth edition of the Junior Eurovision
Song Contest 2006.
Football
Football ("fotbal" to Romanians and "soccer" to Americans,
Australians, and Canadians) is the most widely-followed sport in Bucharest,
with the city having various club teams that are known throughout Europe,
the best of which is FC Dinamo Bucharest, signified by two fierce wolves,
a reminder of the legend of the founding of Rome.
Romania's football has a proud history, starting about the same
time as other European nation's top teams. Sportul Studenţesc,
was founded in 1916 during the Great War, and continue to play to this
day at the Regie Stadium (Regie is the student district near the universities).
As the oldest team in Bucharest, the historic team now plays on tier
down in the second league.
Five football teams of Bucharest participate in Liga 1 (Premier
League, previously known as A Division), wich is the top division in
the Romanian football league:
FC Dinamo, founded in 1948, at home in Dinamo Stadium
FC Rapid, founded in 1923 play at home in the Giuleşti Stadium.
Rapid, long the team associated with the railroads (an old locomotive
is still ensconced at their stadium), made the quarter-finals in 2005-2006
season of UEFA Cup (the best performance in club's history
FC Naţional, founded in 1944 play at Cotroceni Stadium, just behind
the Marriott hotel and Defense Intelligence complex.
FC Steaua, founded in 1947 headquartered at the massive Ghencea
Stadium. Şteaua, meaning "the Star" was
the surprise 1986 European Champion Clubs Cup winners and took the European
Super Cup.
Sport in Bucharest
As far as size goes, Lia Manoliu Stadium is the largest stadium
in Romania. Also there are sport centers, like Dinamo Sports Park and
the National Sports Center.
There are also a number of sport clubs for ice hockey, rugby union,
basketball, handball, water polo and volleyball. Each of the major football
clubs are actually part of larger sports organisations which sponsor,
promote and profit from the other sports. The majority of Romanian
track and field athletes, boxers, and a great number of gymnasts are
affiliated with clubs in Bucharest. The Athletics and many Gymnastics
National Championships are held in Bucharest, one main reason being
the city's extensive sporting infrastructure.
Every autumn, Bucharest hosts BCR Open Romania international tennis
tournament, which is included in the ATP Tour. Also, the Romanian Davis
Cup Team usually plays its matches in Bucharest, either outdoors at
the BNR Arena or indoor at the Sala Polivalentă.
For the 2007 season, Bucharest will host a round of the FIA GT Championship
at the new Bucharest Ring, on May 20.
Let Us Know about some things to do! Thanks!
|
|
|
|
|
Listed below are some local agents who can help you with bookings and organize local tours in the Bucureşti area.
  +40 (21) 210 64 20 FAX: +40 (21) 211 30 82
+40 (21) 312 99 05 FAX: +40 (21) 312 99 06  Xmas Travel, Str. Stirbei Voda nr. 72 in
+40 (21) 312 98 92 FAX: +40 (21) 312 98 93 +40 (21) 317 03 69 FAX: +40 (21) 317 03 70 Voyager Tourism, Bd. Magheru nr. 9, bloc Eva, sc. 1, ap. 2, interfon 002 in +40 (21) 315 91 02 FAX: +40 (21) 315 91 03 Virgin Tours, Calea Victoriei nr. 1-5, sc. D, parter, ap. 2 in +40 (21) 315 99 17 FAX: +40 (21) 313 80 38 +40 (21) 320 01 32 FAX: +40 (21) 320 01 32 Veronica Travel Agency, Str. Theodor D. Sperantia nr. 135, bl. 83, sc.1, parter, ap.3 in +40 (21) 320 81 76 FAX: +40 (21) 321 42 49 Variant Travel, Sos. Pantelimon nr. 113, bl. 400 B, parter, ap. 10 in +40 (21) 250 48 76 FAX: +40 (21) 250 48 76 +40 (21) 317.90.25 FAX: +40 (21) 317.90.24 +40 (21) 323 02 74 FAX: +40 (21) 323 02 74 Vacanta Turism, Bdul. Nicolae Balcescu nr. 35 A in +40 (21) 314 16 34 FAX: +40 (21) 314 16 33 Ultramarin Travel, Bdul. Unirii nr. 55, bl. E 4a, parter in +40 (21) 326 44 93 FAX: +40 (21) 326 44 91 Ulise Tour S R L, Sos. Stefan cel Mare nr. 234, bl. 77, sc. C, ap. 79 in +40 (21) 212 46 08 FAX: +40 (21) 212 46 08 +40 (21) 311 32 92 FAX: +40 (21) 311 32 91 Travel Society, Str. Barbu Vacarescu, nr. 151, bloc vila, ap. 1 in +40 (21) 233 94 83 FAX: +40 (21) 231 14 63 +40 (21) 444 32 54 FAX: +40 (21) 444 32 54 Travel Club Services, Sos.Stefan cel Mare nr.226, bl.44, parter,sector 2 in +40 (21) 314 61 04 FAX: +40 (21) 314 61 04 Total Reisen & Jagd, Aleea Compozitorilor nr. 15, bl. 821, ap. 47, interfon 047,sector 6
Birou: Piata Dorobanti nr. 6 in +40 (21) 413 38 09 FAX: +40 (21) 725 44 26 Top Travel Service, Bdul. Elisabeta nr. 35, ap. 13,sector 5 in +40 (21) 315 26 34 FAX: +40 (21) 311 18 33 Tiriac Travel, Str. Zambilelor nr. 96, Sector 2 in +40 (21) 242 23 23 / 242 31 31 FAX: +40 031 80 55 173 / 031 80 55 172 +40 (21) 310 29 22 FAX: +40 (21) 310 25 14 +40 (21) 202 90 31 FAX: +40 (21) 202 90 30 Suzana Travel, Piata Kogalniceanu nr. 8, sc. A, ap. 3,sector 5 in +40 (21) 315 70 86 FAX: +40 (21) 315 70 86 +40 (21) 252 34 31 FAX: +40 (21) 252 39 04 Sol Turism Bucureşti, Bdul N. Balescu
Nr.27-33, Sc.A, Ap1, Interfon 1C, in +40 (21) 310 27 44 FAX: +40 (21) 310 27 45 Solis Travel, Str. Logofat Udriste nr. 19, ap.1,sector 3 in +40 (21) 323 20 63 FAX: +40 (21) 323 20 63 Smiley Tour, Sos. Viilor nr. 95, bl. 102, ap. 33, parter in +40 (21) 336 88 52 FAX: +40 (21) 336 88 52 Select Tour, Str. Iuliu Valaori nr. 7,sector 3 in +40 (21) 323 66 19 FAX: +40 (21) 323 66 19 Scanio, Str. I. L. Caragiale nr. 22, ap 2,sector 2 in +40 (21) 210 36 49 FAX: +40 (21) 210 30 17 Savas Travel, Calea Victoriei nr. 208, ap. 3 in +40 (21) 212 30 81 FAX: +40 (21) 211 27 80 Ro Team Tour, Str. Toma Caragiu nr. 3, ap. 32 in +40 (21) 313 19 09 FAX: +40 (21) 314 61 21 Romdonau Tourism, Bdul. Unitatii nr. 128 , bl. B 4A, ap. 2,sector 3 in +40 (21) 323 42 38 FAX: +40 (21) 323 42 38 +40 (21) 330 70 83 FAX: +40 (21) 330 70 83 Romadria Confort, Str. Eugen Carada nr. 5-7, sc. B, ap. 25 in +40 (21) 313 68 12 FAX: +40 (21) 312 09 18 Q Travel Confort, Str. 9 Mai, nr. 1 A, bl. 25 bis, sc. 1, ap. 5, et. 1, interfon 05 in +40 (21) 221 70 20 FAX: +40 (21) 221 70 20 Pro Travel, Bdul. Eroii Sanitari nr. 9, et. 1, ap. 2 in +40 (21) 411 41 50 Princess Tour & Travel, Bdul. N. Balcescu nr. 33, bl. Unic, sc. B, et. 1, ap. 7, sector 1 in +40 (21) 313 19 64 FAX: +40 (21) 313 19 65 Premier Tour, Str. Anastasie Simu, nr. 2, et. 1, ap. 3 in +40 (21) 314 72 92 Poli - Tour, Sos. Stefan cel Mare nr. 35, bl. 31, ap. 159, sector 2 in +40 (21) 212 14 55 FAX: +40 (21) 210 64 80 +40 (21) 315 75 55 FAX: +40 (21) 315 75 55 Peter Express, Bdul. Magheru nr. 32-36, sc A, ap. 1 in +40 (21) 316 52 72 FAX: +40 (21) 316 57 66 +40 (21) 310 65 01 FAX: +40 (21) 310 65 02 +40 (21) 210 69 97 FAX: +40 (21) 212 27 56 +40 (21) 311 19 58 FAX: +40 (21) 312 27 74 +40 (21) 311 33 32 FAX: +40 (21) 311 33 32 Original Travel, Calea Calarasilor nr. 178, bl. 60, sc. B, ap. 37, sector 3 in +40 (21) 320 32 35 FAX: +40 (21) 326 60 89 Nicro Travel, Str. Nicolae Iorga, nr. 35 in +40 (21) 212 78 24 FAX: +40 (21) 312 70 58 New Travel & Tour, Piata C.A. Rosetti, nr.3, et.1, ap.3, sector 2, in +40 (21) 311 03 01 FAX: +40 (21) 311 03 01 Neotour, Str.Ion Tuculescu, nr. 40, bl. G 8, sc. 3, et. 1, ap.15 in +40 (21) 324 15 64 FAX: +40 (21) 647 55 69 +40 (21) 313 76 57 FAX: +40 (21) 313 76 52 Mr Peter Company, Str. Caderea Bastiliei, nr. 5, ap. 4 in +40 (21) 311 21 17 FAX: +40 (210 311 21 16 Mondo Vip Travel, Str. Dem .I. Dobrescu, nr. 15 / 65 in +40 (21) 313 32 62 FAX: +40 (21) 313 32 62 +40 (21) 312 88 38 FAX: +40 (21) 312 93 94 +40 (21) 210 95 27 FAX: +40 (21) 210 95 27 Mia Travel, Bd. Iancu de Hunedoara nr. 37, sc. C, ap. 1, sector 1 in +40 (21) 230 97 15 FAX: +40 (21) 230 98 51 +40 (21) 323 31 32 FAX: +40 (21) 323 31 39 Maxi Tourism, Bdul. Tineretului nr. 19, bl. A 5, ap 1, interfon 41 in +40 (21) 330 95 18 FAX: +40 (21) 331 39 72 Maximum Tour, Str. Muzeul Zambaccian nr. 22 B, sector 1 in +40 (21) 231 87 04 FAX: +40 (21) 231 64 90 031 405 84 11 FAX: +40 (21) 337 31 18 Mary Poppins, Str. Edgar Quinet, nr. 10, Mezanin, ap. 3 in +40 (21) 314 06 13 FAX: +40 (21) 314 06 13 +40 (21) 319 44 44 FAX: +40 (21) 319 44 45 Maran Turism, Sos. Stefan cel Mare, nr.31, bl.29, ap.140, sector 2 in +40 (21) 210 06 69 FAX: +40 (21) 619 01 50 Malta Travel, Str. Pitar Mos nr 29, ap. 23, sector 1 in +40 (21) 318 59 92 Magest Turism, Bdul. D. Cantemir nr. 4 , bl. 3 C, sc. 1, ap. 1, interfon 01 in +40 (21) 335 64 50 FAX: +40 (21) 336 70 04 Licorna Travel, Str. Stefan Mihaileanu nr. 28 A in +40 (21) 348 66 22 FAX: +40 (21) 320 37 17 Lartours, Str. Stirbei Voda nr. 2-4 in +40 (21) 201 18 50 FAX: +40 (21) 312 01 48 Komsi Travel, Str. Valea Ialomitei nr. 3, bl. D 22, sc. F, parter, ap. 51 in +40 (21) 777 63 22 FAX: +40 (21) 777 63 22 Karo Expert, Str. Franceza nr. 66-68, sector 3 in +40 (21) 315 62 63 FAX: +40 (21) 315 62 63 Jeka Turism, Aleea Textilistilor nr. 1, bl. M Y1, sc. A, ap. 13-14 in +40 (21) 255 19 33 FAX: +40 (21) 255 19 34 Asyst, Piata Kogalniceanu nr. 8, sc. princip. et. 5, ap. 29 in +40 (21) 311.16.73 FAX: +40 (21) 313.45.12 Ionis Travel, Str. Ing. Anghel Saligny, nr. 8 in +40 (21) 314 56 34 FAX: +40 (21) 315 04 41 +40 (21) 311 23 61 FAX: +40 (21) 312 08 20 Interra Travel, Bdul. I. C. Bratianu nr. 29-33, mag Cocor in +40 (21) 312 37 75 FAX: +40 (21) 312 37 76 +40 (21) 313 75 91 FAX: +40 (21) 313 75 91 +40 (21) 312 44 55 FAX: +40 (21) 315 75 46 +40 (21) 778 02 48 FAX: +40 (21) 778 02 48 Hera Tour, Bdul. Decebal nr. 11, bl. S 14, sc. 4, ap. 72 in +40 (21) 321 28 36 FAX: +40 (21) 320 36 54 +40 (21) 313 45 45 FAX: +40 (21) 313 45 12 Grafos S R L, Bdul. Ghe. Sincai nr. 15 , bl. 5 A , sc. 3 , ap. 64 in +40 (21) 330 95 48 FAX: +40 (21) 330 95 48 Getica Turism, Bdul. Iancu de Hunedoara nr.29, sector 1 in +40 (21) 231 94 05 FAX: +40 (21) 231 06 35 Galaxsea Travel, Bdul. Lascar Catargiu nr. 11 A, ap. 3 in +40 (21) 303 99 54 FAX: +40 (21) 650 48 27 Fun Travel, Str. Octavian Goga nr. 24 , bl. M 62 , sc.2-3, sector 3 in +40 (21) 326 45 67 FAX: +40 (21) 320 46 29 +40 (21) 322 87 38 FAX: +40 (21) 322 87 38 For Travel, Str. Nasaud nr. 64, bl. 32, sc.3, ap 67, interfon 67 in +40 (21) 423 72 53 FAX: +40 (21) 423 31 15 +40 (21) 222 10 50 FAX: +40 (21) 222 10 50 Fides Travel, Bdul. Hristo Botev nr. 1, et.1, sector 1 in +40 (21) 310 05 09 FAX: +40 (21) 312 54 94 +40 (21) 212 26 43 FAX: +40 (21) 212 26 43 Family Travel, Str. Feleacu nr. 22, bl. 8 H, parter, ap. 42, sector 1 in +40 (21) 233 16 86 FAX: +40 (21) 233 16 86 +40 (21) 252 09 94 FAX: +40 (21) 252 06 30 Explore Travel, Bd. Magheru Nr.9, Bloc EVA,
Scara 1, Etaj 1, Ap 6 in +40 (21) 313 47 75 +40 (21) 311 50 62 FAX: +40 (21) 311 50 65 Eveniment Travel, Str. Vasile Stroescu nr. 21, sector 2 in +40 (21) 642 47 52 FAX: +40 (21) 252 10 96 +40 (21) 311 23 63 FAX: +40 (21) 313 17 51 Europoint Tour & Travel, Bd. D. Cantemir nr. 20, bl 8, sc. 4, ap. 100, parter in +40 (21) 337 24 97 FAX: +40 (21) 336 28 60 Europa Travel, Str. Berzei, nr. 16, sector 1 in +40 (21) 312 70 21 FAX: +40 031-402 55 88 +40 (21) 323 54 00 FAX: +40 (21) 323 54 03 Ella Traveland, Str.Constantin Noica nr.134, sector 6 in +40 (21) 315 65 11 FAX: +40 (21) 315 65 37 Elite Tours, Calea Dorobantilor nr. 73, ap. 1, interfon 01 in +40 (21) 212 11 69 FAX: +40 (21) 212 09 31 Dodo Travel, Calea Vacaresti nr. 274, bl. 62, ap. 2, sector 4 in +40 (21) 330 85 36 FAX: +40 (21) 330 85 82 Dante Travel, Intrarea Sectorului nr. 3, Corp A 2, ap. 6 in +40 (21) 320 12 25 FAX: +40 (21) 320 12 25 Danco Pro Travel, Str. Maior Coravu nr. 29 C, sector 2 in +40 (21) 250 02 21 FAX: +40 (21) 250 33 12 +40 (21) 319 46 88 FAX: +40 (21) 319 46 90 +40 (21) 313 00 41 FAX: +40 (21) 313 00 41 Clasic Turism, Aleea Alexandru Moruzzi, nr.9, bl. V 60, sc.1, et.1, ap.4 in +40 (21) 321 26 08 FAX: +40 (21) 321 26 08 Christian Tour, Bdul. Kogalniceanu nr. 23, sector 5 in +40 (21) 313 32 69 FAX: +40 (21) 313 52 26 +40 (21) 212.01.74 FAX: +40 (21) 212.01.75 Augsburg International, Autostrada Bucuresti- Pitesti, Sos de Centura nr. 5-6 in +40 (21) 305.06.00 FAX: +40 (21) 404.31.02 +40 (21) 314.22.95 FAX: +40 (21) 314.12.70 Carpatia Tour, Bdul. Magheru, nr. 2-4, bl. Scala, ap. 8-10, sector 1 in +40 (21) 312.65.66 FAX: +40 (21) 314.91.36 Cardinal, Bdul. Dacia nr. 47, ap. 1 in +40 (21) 212.00.57 FAX: +41 (21) 212.00.57 +40 (21) 312.92.89 FAX: +40 (21) 317.05.13 Best Comtur, Str. Brezoianu nr. 23-25, parter,sector 1 in +40 (21) 315.31.14 FAX: +40 (21) 314.49.19 +40 (21) 315.15.05 FAX: +40 (21) 315.23.57 Babel Tour, Str. Putul lui Zamfir, nr. 18-18 A in +40 (21) 230.29.46 FAX: +40 (21) 230.29.46 +40 (21) 302.95.94 FAX: +40 (21) 302.98.94 Avi Group Travel, Piata Walter Maracineanu nr. 1-3, parter, camera 51 in +40 (21) 312.82.23 FAX: +40 (21) 312.82.23 +40 (21) 211.70.25 FAX: +40 (21) 210.03.88 Atta Tour, Bdul. Iancu de Hunedoara, nr. 25, bl. 2, sc. A, ap. 5 in +40 (21) 230.62.10 FAX: +40 (21) 230.62.10 Atlantic Tour, Calea Victoriei nr. 202, sectorul 1 in +40 (21) 312.77.57 FAX: +40 (21) 312.68.60 As Travel, Calea Victoriei nr. 81,sector 1 in +40 (21) 318.99.15 FAX: +40 (21) 318.99.15 Apsa Travel, Str. Ion Campineanu nr. 23, bl. 10, sc. A, et. 1, ap. 5, sector 1 in +40 (21) 311.36.21 FAX: +40 (21) 311.36.20 Alma Tour Romania, Str. Iancu Cavaler de Flondor nr. 7,sect.2 in +40 (21) 252.39.90 FAX: +40 (21) 252.39.93 +40 (21) 212 5141 FAX: +40 (21) 212 5321 Alfa Travel, Calea Floreasca nr. 76, sect.1 in +40 (21) 230.55.13 FAX: +40 (21) 230.55.76 Aladin Travel, Bdul. Magheru, nr. 29, ap. 44, et. 6, sectorul 1 in +40 (21) 316.55.49 FAX: +40 (21) 031-405.92.54 Adventure Travel, Str. Fabrica de chibrituri, nr. 22, ap. 6 in +40 (21) 224.67.66 FAX: +40 (21) 224.67.66 +40 (21) 233.39.49 Adria Travel, Bdul. Carol I, nr. 76, bl. 76, sc.1, ap. 1, parter, Int. 01, sectorul 2 in +40 (21) 312.76.16 FAX: +40 (21) 312.76.17 Admira Holidays, Calea Calarasi nr. 178, bl. 60, ap. 2 in +40 (21) 320.13.82 FAX: +40 (21) 320.13.82 FAX: +40 (21) 231 35 93 Abc Trading, Bd. Nicolae Balcescu nr. 35 A, parter in +40 (21) 315.92.44 FAX: +40 (21) 311.04.38 Cmb Travel, Bdul. N. Balcescu nr. 20, sector 1 in _40 (21) 311 31 05 FAX: +40 (21) 311 31 06 Tour 2000, Str. Al.Constantinescu nr. 12 in +40 (21) 224 45 14 +40 (21) 327 37 55 FAX: +40 (21) 327 37 55 Simbol Tour, Bdul. Lascar Catargiu, nr. 11 in +40 (21) 212 54 50 FAX: +40 (21) 212 54 50 Contexpert Tour, Str. Badea Cartan nr. 62, ap.2,sector 2 in +40 (21) 317 91 34 FAX: +40 (21) 317 91 34 Kriha Trave, Adresa: Al. Aliorului nr. 1, bl. E 11, ap. 8
Adresa 2: Str. Cameliei nr. 39 (in spatele Ministerului Transporturilor) in +40 (21) 224 90 36 FAX: +40 (21) 460 38 56 Faros Mayak Tur, Bdul. Corneliu Coposu, nr 7, bl. 104, sc. 1, ap. 2 in +40 (21) 326 62 48 FAX: +40 (21) 327 61 22 +40 (21) 629 10 86 FAX: +40 (21) 629 10 86 Globtrotter Travel, Str. Demetru I Dobrescu, nr.15-25, sector 1 in +40 (21) 315 42 36 FAX: +40 (21) 315 42 36 Del' Anto, Bdul. M. Kogalniceanu nr. 8 (fost 38), sc.A, ap.17 in +40 (21) 312 56 03 FAX: +40 (21) 305 56 45 Sol Turism, Bdul. N. Balcescu, nr. 27-33, sc.1, ap. 1, interfon 1 C,sector 1 in +40 (21) 310 27 45 FAX: +40 (21) 310 27 45 +40 (21) 230.16.55 FAX: +40 (21) 222.33.01 Cristal Tour, Str. Maria Rosetti nr. 36, ap. 3, sector 2 in +40 (21) 619 10 67 FAX: +40 (21) 210 74 95 Agentia de Voiaj Nr 1, Str. Brezoianu nr.10, in Information about local trafic and international trafic +40 (21) 313.26.42 +40 (21) 4606769 +40 (21) 2360253 FAX: +40 (21) 2360255 +40 (21) 2664944 FAX: +40 (21) 2664944 +40 (21) 2332222 FAX: +40 (21) 2332222 Agentia de Voiaj Nr 1, Str. Brezoianu nr.10, in Sect 1Information about local and international routes,tickets +40 (21) 313.26.42 +40 (21) 3168947 0040-21-223 78 03 ,0040-21-223 78 86 FAX: +40 (040) 21) 223 03 69 0040-21-223 78 03 ,0040-21-223 78 86 FAX: +40 (040) 21) 223 03 69 Havana Travel, Str. Panait Cerna nr. 7, bl. M 44, sc. 2, ap. 31, in Sector 3+40 (21) 320 30 61 FAX: +40 (21) 320 30 61 +40 (21) 330.67.70 FAX: +40 (21) 330.67.71 +40 (21) 3401860 Rit, Jolie Ville Galeria, Strada Erou Iancu Nicolae nr.103 bis in Voluntari 021-206.80.91 FAX: +40 (21) 206 80 91
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From the Rest Romania Website at
|
Transportation
Bucharest's extensive public transport system is the largest in
Romania and the third largest in Europe.
It is made up of the Bucharest Metro, as well as a surface transport
system run by RATB (Regia Autonoma de Transport Bucuresti), which consists
of buses, trams, trolleybuses and light rail. In addition, there is
a private taxi and minibus system. The metro and the surface transport
system — currently run by two separate state-owned corporations — will
be merged in early 2006 to form the Bucharest Metropolitan Transport
Board.
Bucharest is the hub of Romania's national railway network,
run by Căile Ferate Române. The main railway station is Gara de Nord,
or North Station, which provides connections to all major cities in
Romania as well as international destinations such as Budapest, Sofia,
Vienna and Prague. The city also has five other railway stations run
by CFR, which are in the process of being integrated in a commuter railway
serving Bucharest and the surrounding Ilfov county.
The city's municipal road network is centred around a series of
high-capacity boulevards, which generally radiate out from the city
centre to the outskirts. The main axes, which run north-south, east-west
and northwest-southeast, as well as one internal and one external ring
road, support the bulk of the traffic. The city's roads are usually
very crowded during rush hours, due to an increase in car ownership
in recent years.
Every day, there are more than one million vehicles travelling within
the city.[16] This has resulted in wear and potholes appearing on many
Bucharest roads, particularly secondary roads, this being identified
as one of Bucharest's main infrastructural problems. In recent years,
there has been a comprehensive effort on behalf of the City Hall to
boost road infrastructure and according to the general development plan,
nearly 2000 roads are expected to be repaired by 2008.
Airports
The city is served by two airports: Henri Coandă International Airport
(formerly Otopeni) and Aurel Vlaicu International Airport (formerly
Băneasa). Henri Coandă is the largest airport in Romania and the main
hub for the national operator TAROM. It is also connected to several
international airports by a wide range of international airlines. The
smaller Aurel Vlaicu Airport is used for charter flights and low-cost
carriers.
Bucharest is also a major intersection of Romania's national road
network. It is the origin of most of the country's national roads and
expressways, which link the city to all of Romania's major cities as
well as to neighbouring countries such as Hungary, Bulgaria and Ukraine.
Romania's two expressways currently in operation, the A1 and the
A2, both start from Bucharest. The planned A3 and A4 freeways will also
radiate from the Voluntari region in the city's northern outskirts.
Although it is situated on the banks of a river, Bucharest has never
functioned as a port city, with other Romanian cities such as Constanţa
and Brăila acting as the country's main ports. However, the Danube-Bucharest
Canal, which is 73 km long, is currently in construction and is around
60% completed.
When finished, the canal will link Bucharest to the Danube River
and, via the Danube-Black Sea Canal, to the Black Sea. This corridor
is expected to be a significant component of the city's transport infrastructure
and increase sea traffic by a large margin.
Romania's Train Hub
More info coming here soon!
- I walk through
Gara de Nord feeling older and wiser. The big
railway
station looks so different today – modern, revamped. Shiny kiosks bulge with
glossy mags, rows of chocolate and stacks of snacks. Men in suits chat on
mobile phones. Glamorous girls laugh and joke, swig Fanta. Ticket
collectors amble in smart uniforms, hats perched at a rakish angle.
- I can hardly believe my eyes. It seems a so modern. The steel body
shines with immaculate paintwork; the windows are wide, slightly convex and
made of thick tinted glass. Rugged steps and chrome handrails gleam
invitingly in the early morning sun.
- I board the train in Bucharest's main railway station. Inside, the
pale grey vinyl floor is surprisingly free of chewing gum. I choose a seat
by the window. It feels well-designed, covered in bright blue fabric, firm
but comfortable. I watch passengers walking along the platform outside.
-
Soon the carriage begins to fill up. A middle-aged woman sits down
opposite me, hair frosted like a cake, fingers dripping gold. I can almost
hear the wheels grinding at her head: he's not Romanian. It must be my
green rubbery skin, bulbous purple eye and furry antennae.
- The train pulls out of the Gara de Nord, slowly picking up speed,
clickety-clack. I watch as dilapidated apartment blocks sail pass; a kid
leans perilously from a rusty balcony. A skinny woman in a headscarf pins
sagging sheets to a washing line.
- It still looks like Romania out there, apart from the snarling yellow
diggers and new roads with sleek cars. But in here, I feel shot forward in
time. I fold my arms and marvel. It's a bit of a mystery, progress.
-
|
Rental Cars in Bucharest
          
+1(800) 331 1212  +44 (844) 581 0147 +40 (21) 204 1957
|
From the Rest Romania Website at
|
| |
Bucharest is situated on the banks of the Dâmboviţa River, which
flows into the Argeş River, a tributary of the Danube. The capital
city and industrial and commercial centre of Romania is located in the
southeast of Romania at 44°25′N 26°06′E.
Water, Water, Everywhere!
Several lakes – the most important of which are Lake Floreasca,
Lake Tei and Lake Colentina – stretch across the city, along the Colentina
River, a tributary of the Dâmboviţa. In addition, in the
centre of the capital there is a small artificial lake – Lake Cişmigiu
– surrounded by the Cişmigiu Gardens. The Cişmigiu Gardens have a rich
history, being frequented by famous poets and writers. Opened in 1847
and based on the plans of German architect Carl F.W. Meyer, the gardens
are currently the main recreational facility in the city centre.
- Every time I visit this place, I feel the same. Maybe it's because of
the elegant flower beds, the winding paths and the ambitious chatter of
happy kids. Or maybe it's the young lovers who paddle rowing boats, the
skeletal old ladies who gossip on benches of battered wood, or the
grim-faced men who huddle around stone tables playing chess.
- Whatever it is, every time I walk through
Cişmigiu
gardens in the centre of busy, booming
Bucharest, I feel as if
I'm wandering through a painting by a French impressionist. And there is a
connection after all. Wasn't the city once known as Paris of the East?
-
Crossing
a bridge over the lake, I pause to wonder what Monet would have made of it,
with his canvas and paint, some Sunday afternoon. Kids dawdle about in
their Sunday best nibbling pink clouds of candy floss. Turbo-folk music
booms from a cafe terrace, where waiters and white shirts and black
waistcoats glide on shiny shoes amongst the crowded tables, dispensing
drinks and fixed smiles. Most clients are smoking. The happy chatter and
innocuous silver wisps drift across the lake. It looks like a modern-day
version of Renoir's Luncheon of the Boating Party.
- Under a large tree near the zona de conifere there are couple of lovers
kissing passionately. The young woman sits on the man's knee. At the edge
of the boating lake, knots of people wait quietly on the
debarcader -- the
jetty -- for their turn. Two tiny children are dressed in identical outfits
– denim dungarees and jelly shoes. They gaze towards the centre of the
lake, where a fountain spurts great arcs of water into the air, teasing them
to hurry up and join the fun. One of the kids spins around, hugging
herself.
- I find an empty bench. I take my seat and sit back to ponder the
passage of time. This park has a place in history. It seems the name
Cişmigiu is Turkish in origin. It means the
person responsible for building or maintaining a public fountain.
- And never mind the French Impressionists,
Maxy, Romanian
avant-garde artist from the 20s painted Şomeri pe o
bancă în Cişmigiu: Unemployed on a bench in Cişmigiu. It's an
intriguing picture with a perilous perspective, a captivating blend of light
and shade, action and inactivity, gossip and snoozing. It's in the National
Gallery at
Cluj-Napoca.
- I stop to buy a tiny handful of sunflower seeds from an old lady on a
wooden stool. They're still in their shells. I don't know how to eat them
the way some Romanians do. I always make a mess. As I pass through the
gates to rejoin the real world of busy streets and halting traffic, I
realise two things. First, Cişmigiu is not really a Monet. It's too neat,
too precise for him. No, this park is more like Seurat's
Island of the Grande Jatte.
Besides Cişmigiu, Bucharest contains several other large parks and
gardens, including Herăstrău Park and the Botanical Garden. Herăstrău
is a large public park located in the north of the city, and the site
of the Village Museum, while the Bucharest's botanical garden is the
largest in Romania and contains over 10,000 species of plants, many
of them exotic; it was once a pleasure park for the royal family.
A Plain Town
Bucharest is situated in the south eastern corner of the Romanian
Plain, in an area once covered by the Vlăsiei forest, which, after it
was cleared, gave way to a fertile flatland. As with many cities, Bucharest
is traditionally considered to have seven hills, in the tradition of
the seven hills of Rome. Bucharest's seven hills are: Mihai Vodă, Patriarchy
Hill, Radu Vodă, Cotroceni, Spirei, Văcăreşti and Sf. Gheorghe Nou.
The city has a total area of 226 km˛. The altitude varies from 55.8
metres at the Dâmboviţa bridge in Căţelu, south-eastern Bucharest and
91.5 m at the Militari church. The city has a relatively round shape,
with the centre situated approximately in the cross-way of the main
north-south/east-west axes at the University Square. The milestone for
Romanian's kilometre zero is placed just south of University Square
in front of the New St. George Church (Sfântul Gheorghe Nou) at St.
George Square (Piaţa Sfântul Gheorghe). Bucharest's radius, from University
Square to the city limits in all directions, varies from about 10 to
12 km.
Until recently, the regions surrounding Bucharest were largely rural,
but after 1989, new suburbs started to be built around Bucharest, in
the surrounding Ilfov county. Further urban consolidation is expected
to take place when the Bucharest metropolitan area is formed in 2006,
which will incorporate various communes and cities of Ilfov and surrounding
counties.
Bucharest has a continental climate, characterised by hot dry summers
and cold winters. Due to its position on the Romanian Plain, the city's
winters could get windy, even though some of the winds are mitigated
due to urbanisation. Winter temperatures are often below 0°C, even though
they rarely drop below -10°C.
In summer, the average temperature is approximately 23°C (the average
for July and August), despite the fact that temperatures sometimes reach
35-40°C in mid-summer in the city centre. Although average precipitation
and humidity during summer is low, there are infrequent yet heavy and
often violent storms. During spring and autumn, temperatures vary between
18-22°C, and precipitation during this time tends to be higher than
in summer, with more frequent yet milder periods of rain.
Bucharest has a unique status in Romanian administration, since
it is the only municipality that is not part of a county. Its population,
however, is larger than that of any Romanian county, and hence the power
of the Bucharest General City Hall (Primăria Generală), which is the
city's local government body, is about the same as, if not greater than,
that of Romanian county councils.
The city government is headed by a General Mayor (Primar General),
currently (as of 2006) Adriean Videanu. Decisions are approved and discussed
by the General Council (Consiliu General) made up of 55 elected councillors.
Furthermore, the city is divided into six administrative sectors (sectoare),
each of which has their own 27-seat sectorial council, town hall and
mayor. The powers of local government over a certain area are therefore
shared by the Bucharest City Hall and the local sectorial councils with
little or no overlapping of authority. The general rule is that the
main City Hall is responsible for citywide utilities such as the water
system, the transport system and the main boulevards, while sectorial
town halls manage the contact between individuals and the local government,
secondary streets, parks, schools and cleaning services.
Population
The city's population, according to the 2002 census, is 2,082,000
inhabitants, or about 9% of the population of Romania. Additionally,
there are about 50,000 people who commute to the city every day, mainly
from the surrounding Ilfov county.
Bucharest's population experienced two phases of rapid growth, the
first in the late 19th century, when the city grew in importance and
size, and the second during the Communist period, when a massive urbanisation
campaign was launched and many people migrated from rural areas to the
capital.
At this time, due to Ceauşescu's ban on abortion and contraception,
natural increase was also significant. Since the fall of Communism,
however, the city's population continues to gently fall, due both to
emigration and to a declining birth rate.
Approximately 97% of the population of Bucharest are ethnic Romanians,
with the second largest ethnic group being the Roma, which make up 1.4%
of the population. Other significant ethnic groups are Hungarians (0.3%),
Jews (0.1%), Turks (0,1%), Germans (0,1%) and Chinese (0.1%).
Some other inhabitants of Bucharest are of Greek, Armenian, Lipovan
and Italian descent. The Greeks and the Armenians used to play significant
roles in the life of the city at the end of the 19th century and beginning
of the 20th century. One the predominantly Greek neighbourhoods Vitan
- where a Jewish population also lived; the latter was more present
in Văcăreşti and areas around Unirii Square.
Religion
In terms of religion, 96.1% of the population are Romanian Orthodox,
1.2% are Roman Catholic, 0.5% are Muslim and 0.4% are Eastern Rite-Catholic.
Despite this, only 24% of the population, of any religion, attend
a place of worship once a week or more. The life expectancy of residents
of Bucharest in 2003-2005 was 74.14 years, around 2 years higher than
the Romanian average. Female life expectancy was 77.41 years, in comparison
to 70.57 years for males.
Economics
Bucharest is the most economically-developed and industrialised
city in Romania, producing around 21% of the country's GDP and about
one-quarter of its industrial production, while only accounting for
9% of the country's population.
Almost one third of national taxes is paid by Bucharest's citizens
and companies. Based on local purchasing power, Bucharest has a per-capita
GDP of nearly 60% that of the European Union average, and more than
twice the Romanian average. Based on the fact that Bucharest produces
around 21% of Romanian GDP for a population of around 2 million, the
GDP (PPP) per capita of the city would be US$20,057. The city's strong
economic growth has revitalised infrastructure and led to the development
of many shopping malls and modern residential towers and high-rise office
buildings. In September 2005, Bucharest had an unemployment rate of
2.6%, significantly lower than the national unemployment rate of 5.7%.
Bucharest's economy is mainly centred on industry and services,
with services particularly growing in importance in the last ten years.
The city serves as the headquarters of 186,000 firms, including nearly
all large Romanian companies. An important source for growth since 2000
has been the city's property and construction boom, which has resulted
in a significant growth in the construction sector.
Bucharest is also Romania's largest centre for information technology
and communications and is home to several software companies, including
Softwin, which operates internationally. Bucharest contains Romania's
largest stock exchange, the Bucharest Stock Exchange, which was merged
in December 2005 with the Bucharest-based electronic stock exchange,
Rasdaq.
The city has a number of international supermarket chains such as
Carrefour, Cora and METRO. At the moment, the city is undergoing a retail
boom, with a large number of supermarkets, and hypermarkets, constructed
every year. For more information, see supermarkets in Romania. The biggest
modern shopping centres in Bucharest are Bucharest Mall, Plaza Romania,
City Mall, Jolie Ville Galleria and Unirea Shopping Center.
However, there are also a large number of traditional markets; the
one at Obor covers about a dozen city blocks, and numerous large stores
that are not officially part of the market effectively add up to a market
district almost twice that size.
|
From the Rest Romania Website at
|
Dialling Bucharest
Urban Bucharest is blessed, or cursed perhaps, with "sort of" having
an extra digit in their phone numbers. While all other counties
have a three-digit "city codes" (well, really county codes), Bucharest
numbers start with just (21) or (31) if you're dialling internationally,
and with the leading zero (021) and (031) if you're in-country.
So, if you're given a number like "976 5432" in Bucharest, you can
dial it just like that if you're in Bucharest, or if in Romania, but
outside Bucharest, then it's most likely that you'd dial (021) 976 5432.
The (021) part means that the owner of the telephone line is the old
state monopoly company, RomTelecom. If it's an (031), then it's
one of the newer companies. You really can't guess.
This "2" and "3" leading number applies ALL across Romania.
Bucharest HotSpots
Bucharest is well wired with over 10 main Hotspots in hotels, a
nice pension, pubs, cafes, restaurants, and even a few neighbourhood
apartments across town.
Note that most of the HotSpots listed with Rest Romania have been
certified with the
Free HotSpot Certification Program, so you'll have few if any problems
connecting once you're there.
Bucharest Cafe Culture
|
|
One of our top 3 Bucharest choices is the cozy uptown
All4U Cafe on 19 Amzei Church
Street (Str. Biserica Amzei 19) offers a great spot to have a coffee,
put up your feet, and relax while you type away. Serving
the university types, this internet cafe has free access (you're
expected to buy a coffee at least), and has 11b access.
Call on +40 (722) 665 454, or e-mail
Mihai here for details.
|
|
|
Further north, the trendy
Turabo Cafe
in their Dorobanti location (not far from the Metro station, at
Calea Dorobanti Nr. 20-28) offers wi-fi with your cuppa. One
of six locations in Bucharest and since early 2007, in
Iaşi as well, their website touts that "Businessmen,
expats, young professionals, statesmen, stars and… models come to
our four Bucharest locations every day, every month."
EMail Tudor Here (the
"Tu" in Turabo) for more info.
|
|
|
Rooms Lounge at 28-30 Mendeleev
is a wayyy cool spot for some hot bandwidth. Colourful, trendy
and relaxed on weeknights, but think about throbbing music on Saturday
nights and a some sweet city views.
Check out their website
or e-mail
Victor here. Phone: (730) 076 667.
|
|
|
The Pizza Hut
restaurant chain in Romania offers free wireless hotspots to
customers at their Dorobanti, Calea Mosilor, Calea Victoriei and
Plaza
Romania locations in
Bucharest.
|
Wired Hotels and Offices in the Capital
|
|
The iconic
Intercontinental Hotel in downtown Bucharest offers wireless
for it's guests. It does have a rather extensive lobby
area, so dress with a collar and pick up the good juice. At
4 Nicolae Balcescu Blvd next to the national theatre, you can't
miss it. Wireless Data Connection Fee is 10€ for guests, and
15€ in the public areas.
E-mail them here, of
call the front desk at +40 (21)
310 2020 or FAX: +40 (21) 312
0486.
|
|
|
The
Hotel Ambasador offers free wireless connections for patrons
from it's crazy-concrete pseudo-Deco formal facade at 8-10 Magheru
Blvd. Brunches from 12€, coffee service from 4€.
E-mail the Ambasador or
call the Hotel on +40 (21) 312 9080 for more information.
|
|
|
 The
Pensiunea Casa
Mica (Little House Pension) at 74 Gen'l Petre Popovat St., over
in Sector 6 is
one of the few proper pensions in the city offering wi-fi free to
it's guests. Rather nicely located out near the Orchideea shopping
complex featuring the hypermarket Carrefour, if you're basing yourself
in Bucharest for any time and need in-house wireless, this pension
offers affordable rooms from 25€, with restaurant and pool.
E-mail the Casa Mica, or
phone on +40 (21) 223 8538,
+40 (749) 114 663 or
FAX: +40 (21) 221 1169.
|
|
|
Another
downtown well-known property for those seeking free wi-fi (available
throughout the hotel) is the
Hotel Dalin
in the city centre at 70-72 Maraseşti Blvd in
Sector 4.
A hotel of undeniable calm and class, you can find single rooms
often available sub-100€ in this beautiful property with some of
the best-done rooms for Westerners, while still retaining a uniquely
Romanian flavour.
Book online, e-mail,
or phone on (21) 335 5541 or FAX: +40
(21) 335 5541.
|
|
|
Somewhat bizarrely, the national Ice Hockey Federation offers a
free wireless hotspot, presumably to enthusiasts at 35-37 Basarabiei
Blvd in Sector 2.
Email the Federation for more
info, or call on +40 (21) 324 7713 or
+40 (21) 648 7216.
|
|
|
Mailers on
Sos. Fundeni nr. 117-121 in Sector 2 charges to connect for it's
office wi-fi at this direct marketing campaign company.
E-mail Mailers or call on
+40 (21) 305 4100,
+40 (723) 290 401, or
FAX: +40 (21) 305 4109.
|
|
|
Mach9 offers
wireless internet services to other businesses, and also offers
wireless from their "Head Office Group" sales offices at 71
Sirenelor Street.
E-mail Mach 9 here or call their offices on (31) 401 1083 or
(744) 202 784 for more info. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Neighbourhood HotSpots in the Quarters
|
|
The Wi-Fi Zone RO is an independent HotSpot provider in Sector 1
on the ninth floor of an apartment block at Bd. Banu Manta
22, Bl. 29, sc1, et 9, ap 39. Call ahead on +40 (722)
739 056 for hours available.
|
|
|
The Pink Panther (Pantera Roz) on Str.Campia Libertatii, Nr.6, Bl.PM52,
Sc.D, Ap.182 is another block business in Bucharest, you can try
them on +40 (729) 729 335
or EMail the Pink Panther
here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hostel Visali Inn, Buzeşti Nr. 20 in The hostel is part of a network that owns over 40 villas and apartments. 21 3190919 FAX: 21 3190910 Hotel SuterInn, Aleea Suter Nr. 3 in The hotel is placed between the Parliament Palace and the Union Market, in an exceptional ambience. 21 3373939 FAX: 21 3371133 Hotel Andy, Witing Nr. 2 in The hotel sleeps 50 in double rooms and apartments. 21 3003050 FAX: 21 3003052 Hotel Sir, Virtuţii Nr. 1 A in The hotel sleeps 51 in single and double rooms and apartments. 21 4305706 FAX: 21 4300127 Hotel Samaa, Ion Mihalache Nr. 319 C in The hotel is located near the major points of interest in Bucharest. 21 2240282 FAX: 21 2240284 Hotel Residence, Clucerului Nr. 19 in The hotel was opened in 2002 and placed in a very nice and quiet residential area near the Arc de Triumph. 21 2231978 FAX: 21 2229046 Hotel Majestic, Calea Victoriei Nr. 38-40 in Due to its position and intimacy, the hotel is oriented towards business men especially. 21 3102715 FAX: 21 3102799 Prince Residence, Principatele Unite Nr. 42 in The villa is placed in the heart of the city, but in a quiet atmosphere and an elegant ambience. 21 3357407 Hotel Passion, Valea Oltului Nr. 117 A in The hotel sleeps 30 in double and triple rooms. 21 4443667 Hotel Parc, Poligrafiei Nr. 3-5 in The hotel is placed 15 minutes away of the airport and very close to the centre. 21 5492000 FAX: 21 5492330 Pensiunea Paradise Accommodation, Abrud Nr. 1 A in The pension offers quality services for tourists and businessmen. 21 2319763 Hotel Nelisse, Popa Lazăr Nr. 12 in The hotel offers quality services close to the Henri Coandă Airport. 21 2521401 FAX: 21 2520444 Hotel Monte Nelly, Corbeni Nr. 30 in The hotel is placed close to the main touristic objectives. 21 2110979 FAX: 21 2111180 Marriott Grand Hotel, 13 Septembrie Nr. 90 in The hotel is placed in a beautiful area, close to the Parliament Palace. 21 4030000 FAX: 21 4030001 Hotel Lido, Magheru Nr. 5-7 in A modern hotel in a historical building, in the centre of the city. 21 3144930 FAX: 21 3121414 Hotel Lebăda, Biruinţei Nr. 3 in Placed on Saint Pantelimon island, the hotel was princely castel in the XVIIIth century. 21 3501071 FAX: 21 3501066 Hotel K & K Elisabeta, Slănic Nr. 26 in The hotel is placed in a quiet area, but close to the centre of the city. 21 3118631 FAX: 21 3118632 Hostel Kiwi, Viilor Nr. 44 in The hostel offers good services for those with a low budget. 31 8056881 FAX: 21 3126256 Hotel Irisa, Banu Manta Nr. 24 in The hotel offers quality services in the centre of Bucharest. 21 2234965 FAX: 21 2234969 Hotel Intercontinental, Nicolae Bălcescu Nr. 4 in The hotel is placed in the centre of the city, next to the National Theatre. 21 3102020 FAX: 21 3120486 Hotel Crowne Plaza, Poligrafiei Nr. 1 in The hotel is placed in a luxury area, surrounded by greenery. 21 2240034 FAX: 21 3181302 Hotel Ibis, Calea Griviţei Nr. 143 in The hotel sleeps 320 close to the Northern Train Station. 21 2222722 Hotel Unique, Căderea Bastiliei Nr. 35 in Placed in Romana Square, the hotel welcomes its guests with quality services and an intimate ambience. 21 3194591 FAX: 21 3194591 Hotel Trianon, Grigore Cobălcescu Nr. 9 in The hotel sleeps 60 close to Cişmigiu Park. 21 3114927 FAX: 21 3162281 Hotel Siqua, Calea Plevnei Nr. 59 A in The hotel is placed near the Romania Opera, very close to the centre of the city. 21 3195160 FAX: 21 3195162 Hotel Moxa, Mihail Moxa Nr. 4 in The hotel sleeps 48 in double rooms and apartments. 21 6505555 FAX: 21 6506666 Hotel Mazicon, Bascov Nr. 14-18 in The hotel is oriented towards youth and organised groups, offers multiple ways to spend the free time. 21 4449959 FAX: 21 4449979 Hotel Lev Or, Occidentului Nr. 25 in The hotel is oriented to both tourists and business men. 21 3190900 FAX: 21 3190901 Hotel Horoscop, Dimitrie Cantemir Nr. 2 in The hotel is placed right in the centre of the capital, offering a pleasant ambience. 21 3366242 FAX: 21 3354078 Hotel Helios, Iulia Haşdeu Nr. 16 in The hotel is placed in a quiet area, perfect for relaxation and intimacy. 21 3107083 FAX: 21 2601327 Hotel Gallery, Drumul Sării Nr. 31 A in The hotel is newly opened, offers irreproachable high standard services. 21 4114185 FAX: 21 4113975 Hotel Est, Pantelimon Nr. 23 in The hotel sleeps 121 in single and double rooms and apartments. 21 2527864 FAX: 21 2521048 Hotel Elizeu, Elizeu Nr. 11-13 in This is the ideal place for accommodation, 200 metres away of the Northern Train Station. 21 3191734 FAX: 21 3161748 Hotel El Greco, Jean Louis Calderon Nr. 16 in The hotel offers complete dining and accommodation services. 21 3158141 FAX: 21 3158898 Hotel Duke, Dacia Nr. 33 in The hotel was opened in 2002, meant to work as a boutique-hotel. 21 3174186 FAX: 21 3174189 Hotel Dan, Dacia Nr. 125 in The hotel offers quality services in the centre of the city. 21 2103917 FAX: 21 2103958 Hotel Carpaţi, Matei Millo Nr. 16 in The hotel sleeps 59 close to Cişmigiu Park. 21 3150140 FAX: 21 3121857 Hotel Capitol, Calea Victoriei Nr. 29 in The hotel sleeps 165 in the historical centre of Bucharest. 21 3158030 Hotel Banat, Piaţa Rosetti Nr. 5 in The hotel is one of the most beautiful buildings in historical Rosetti Plaza. 21 3131056 FAX: 21 3131057 Hotel Armonia, Calea Moşilor Nr. 112 in The hotel offers quality services in the centre of the city, close to the University Square. 21 3120477 FAX: 21 3120406 Hotel Amphitrion, Ardeleni Nr. 2-4 in The modern hotel is newly built, sleeps 44 in single and double rooms. 21 2016510 FAX: 21 2016512 Hotel Agnes, Şoseaua Olteniţei Nr. 162 in The hotel wishes to be an oasis of silence and relaxation through the services and the conditions offerd. 21 3325146 FAX: 21 3325147 Hotel 7, Aurel Vlaicu Nr. 20 in The hotel is idealy placed for tourism or businesses. 21 2116984 FAX: 21 2110885 Hostel Mioriţa, Lipscani Nr. 12 in The hotel offers accommodation in the historical centre of Bucharest. 21 3120361 FAX: 21 3120328 Hotel Herăstrău, Şoseaua Nordului Nr. 7-9 in The hotel is placed on the edge of the lake, also having 2 restaurants on ships. 21 2329666 FAX: 21 2039923 Hotel Hanul lui Manuc, Franceză Nr. 62-64 in The hotel is traditional style decorated, placed in the centre of the capital. 21 3131411 FAX: 21 3131415 Hotel Green Forum Business, Pictor Iscovescu Barbu Nr. 19 in The hotel sleeps 32 in double rooms and apartments. 31 4058500 FAX: 21 3169595 Hotel Graffiti, Albac Nr. 25 in The hotel was opened in March 2007, sleeps 22. 21 2317979 FAX: 21 2317799 Hotel Golden Tulip, Calea Victoriei Nr. 166 in The hotel is placed in the historical centre of Bucharest, close to the main touristic objectives. 21 2125558 FAX: 21 2125121 Hotel Rubin, Şoseaua Gării Căţelu Nr. 170-174 in The hotel is placed close to Pantelimon and Cernica Lakes. 21 3142890 FAX: 21 3120404 Hotel Flanders, Ştefan Mihăileanu Nr. 20 in The hotel offers complete dining and accommodation services. 21 3276572 FAX: 21 3276573 Hotel Crystal Palace, Alexandru Şerbănescu Nr. 18-20 in The hotel offers complete dining and accommodation services. 21 2332030 FAX: 21 2320226 Hotel Confort Traian, Traian Nr. 55 in The restaurant offers quality services 5 minutes away of the airport. 21 3083153 FAX: 21 3083155 Hotel Comfort Suites, Nicolae Bălcescu Nr. 16 in The hotel offers quality services in the centre of Bucharest. 21 3102884 FAX: 21 3102887 Hotel Class, Gârlei Nr. 30 A in The hotel sleeps 126 in Băneasa neighbourhood, in a very quiet area. 21 2332814 FAX: 21 2332886 Hotel Citadella, Popa Lazăr Nr. 12 in The hotel is placed in the eastern part of Bucharest, in the Bucur-Obor commercial area. 21 2527809 FAX: 21 2525714 Hotel Centre Ville, George Enescu Nr. 2-4 in The hotel sleeps 230 luxury apartments in a very beautiful area. 21 3133525 FAX: 21 3120927 Hotel Central, Brezoianu Nr. 13 in The hotel offers quality services close to Cişmigiu Park. 21 3155636 FAX: 21 3155637 Leida Accommodation, Tudor Vladimirescu Nr. 6 in The villa sleeps 35 close to the People's House. 21 3370259 FAX: 21 3364488 Hotel Casa Victor, Emanoil Porumbaru Nr. 44 in The hotel sleeps 40 in a quiet area, surrounded by greenery. 21 2225723 FAX: 21 2229436 Hotel Casa Locato, Mihalache Nr. 125 in The hotel offers a pleasant atmosphere and quality services for reasonable prices. 21 2244446 FAX: 21 2244468 Hotel Caro, Barbu Văcărescu Nr. 164 A in The hotel is placed on the edge of the lake, 14 Km away of the airport. 21 2086100 FAX: 21 2086101 Hotel Casa Capsa, Calea Victoriei Nr. 36 in The hotel offers luxury services in the historical centre of the city. 21 3134038 FAX: 21 3135999 Hotel Ambasador, Magheru Nr. 8-10 in The building is considered historical monument, 20 minutes away of the airport. 21 3159080 FAX: 21 3123595 Pensiunea Casa Verde Star, Aleea Teişani Nr. 70 in The pension is placed in a very nice area, surrounded by greenery. 21 3190681 FAX: 21 3190680 Vila Select, Ştirbei Vodă Nr. 118-120 in The villa offers complete dining and accommodation services. 21 3154341 Hotel Batistei, Emanuel Bacaloglu Nr. 2 in The hotel sleeps 58 in double and triple rooms and apartments. 21 3149022 FAX: 21 3140888 Hotel Erbaşu, Alexandru Şerbănescu Nr. 27 in The hotel is placed in a quiet area, close to Băneasa Airport. 21 2326931 FAX: 21 2326932 Hotel Floreasca, Johann Strauss Nr. 1 in The hotel sleeps 104, in a quiet area, close to the centre. 21 2302261 FAX: 21 2305735 Hotel Astoria, Dinicu Golescu Nr. 27 in The hotel is placed in a quiet area, surrounded by greenery. 21 2248572 FAX: 21 2248576 Hotel Helvetia, Piaţa Charles de Gaulle Nr. 13 in The hotel offers 40 rooms with a sophisticated design, in a quiet area. 21 2230566 FAX: 21 2228120 Hotel Marna, Buzeşti Nr. 3 in The hotel offers single and double rooms in a very beautiful area. 21 2127582 FAX: 21 2128366 Hotel Bristol, Badea Cartan Nr. 16 in The hotel offers quality services 5 minutes away of Romana Square. 21 2102753 FAX: 21 2101425 Pensiunea Casa Mică, Petre Popovăţ Nr. 74 in The pension offers quality services in a quiet area. 21 2238538 Hotel Floreta de Aur, Popa Marin Nr. 2 in The hotel offers quality services for reasonable prices. 21 2306496 Hostel La Casa, Chitilei Nr. 37 in The hostel is placed in a beautiful area, surrounded by greenery. 21 2229063 Hostel Băneasa Parc, Şoseaua Bucureşti - Ploieşti Nr. 69 in The hostel sleeps 34, 3 minutes away of the airport. 21 2313254 Hostel Anna Maria, Nicodim Nr. 12 in The hostel offers good services for youth and those with a low budget. 21 7786653 Hotel Floreta de Aur, Popa Marin Nr. 2 in The hotel sleeps 34 in a residential area of the city. 21 2306496 Hotel Bulevard, Regina Elisabeta Nr. 21 in The hotel is part of one of the oldest buildings in the city. 21 3153300 Hotel Continental, Calea Victoriei Nr. 56 in The hotel offers quality services in the historical centre of Bucharest. 21 3133694 Hotel Athenee Palace Hilton, Episcopiei Nr. 1-3 in The hotel was built in 1914, sleeps 544. 21 3033777 Pensiunea Titis, Şoseaua Bucureşti - Urziceni, Nr.125 in Afumati (21) 4913256 (21) 3508957 Motel Bucharest West, Şos. de Centură, nr.2 in Domnesti (21) 4135620 Hotel Măgurele, Platforma Măgurele, nr.1 in Magurele (21) 4930070 Hostel Dovinot, Şoseaua Bucureşti - Giurgiu Nr. 238 in Mihailesti (246) 278288 21 2115274 Club 187 Bis, Şos. Bucureşti-Târgovişte, nr.187bis in Mogosoaia (21) 4904550 Hostel La Prepeleac, Şos. Bucureşti-Târgovişte, nr.32 in Mogosoaia (21) 4904069 (21) 2036500 (21) 3504110 FAX: (21) 3504117 (21) 2361801 (21) 2664880 FAX: (21) 2664885 Pensiunea Crumed, Calea Bucureştilor, nr.179A in Otopeni (21) 2361587 Hotel Ana Aslan, Calea Bucureşti, nr.307 in Otopeni (21) 650017 Pensiunea Trandafirul Galben, Calea Bucureşti Nr. 2 in Pielesti 744 762236 Pensiunea Emma, Tâncăbeşti in Tâncabesti 766 252105 Casa cu Steaguri, Str. I. C. Băicoianu, nr.15 in Tâncabesti (21) 2360253 Pensiunea Floarea Soarelui, Str. M. Sadoveanu in Tâncabesti (21) 2677036 Motel Cargo, Str. Bucureşti, nr.46 in Tandarei (243) 231256
|
|
See also County Ilfov
for accommodation in other nearby towns
|
The area code for County
Ilfov is (2AA) or (3AA)
|
Early Bucharest History
The Coat of arms of Bucharest was created during
the rule of Domnitor Alexander John Cuza, omitted under the
early Communist regime, and reinstated in 1994 with only minor
alterations.
|
 |
| |
The coat of arms is a bleu celeste escutcheon charged with
an or eagle facing dexter (standing for the historical region
of Wallachia , crowned bleu celeste, blazoned langued
and armed gules with a Latin cross in its beak, standing over
the motto PATRIA ŞI DREPTUL MEU ("The Motherland and My Right")
on a scroll tricoloured horizontally red-yellow-blue (the colours
of the Romanian flag).
The eagle bears in its claws a sword dexter, a dark or sceptre
sinister, and on its breast a gules inescutcheon with thin azure
bordure, charged with the image of Saint Dimitrie Basarabov
holding a spear dexter and a Latin cross sinister. The saint,
who is the city's patron, is commonly referred to as, and confounded
with, Saint Demetrius - today's arms seem to represent the latter,
as the person depicted is dressed in what looks to be a Roman
uniform.
The escutcheon is adorned with a crest composed of a seven-towered
argent mural crown over which stands a stylised sable eagle
wings displayed facing dexter, with a Latin cross in its beak.History
A heraldic symbol for Bucharest was first used on seals of the
town's jude and pârgari as early as the 16th century: it usually
featured images of the Madonna and Child or the Annunciation,
and was accompanied by an inscription in either Church Slavonic
or Romanian, which simply read variations on the phrase "this
is the seal of Bucharest".
Under the Organic Statute rule of Pavel Kiselyov, the city
was awarded a new symbol, as the image of a standing woman wearing
a shoulder sash and carrying the Scales of Justice (in 1862,
the woman was represented as seated, and carrying both the Scales
and, in her left hand, flowers and ears of wheat).
Cuza changed the seal to depict the patron saint and an
image of the mythical shepherd Bucur.
Early Bucharest Crest from 1868
|
 |
The arms were expanded after World War I - when the mural
crown and all other present-day elements were added, and the
image of Bucur was dropped.
No symbol was in use during between 1948 and the administrative
reforms carried out by the Nicolae Ceauşescu regime. Under the
mad dictator, a new coat of arms was adopted, which was official
until Bucharesteans ousted the despot in the 1989 Revolution.
|
Bucharest's history alternated periods of development and decline
from the early settlements of the Antiquity and until its consolidation
as capital of Romania late in the 19th century. According to the most
popular of legends in circulation, the city was founded by a shepherd
named Bucur.
First mentioned as "the Citadel of Bucureşti" in 1459, it became
a residence of the Wallachian prince Vlad III the Impaler. The Old Princely
Court (Curtea Veche) was built by Mircea Ciobanul, and during following
rules, Bucharest was established as the summer residence of the court,
competing with Târgovişte for the status of capital after an increase
in the importance of southern Muntenia brought about by the demands
of the suzerain power, the Ottoman Empire.
Burned down by the Ottomans and briefly discarded by princes at
the start of the 17th century, Bucharest was restored and continued
to grow in size and prosperity. Its centre was around the street "Uliţa
Mare", which starting 1589 was known as Lipscani. Before the 1700s,
it became the most important trade centre of Wallachia and became a
permanent location for the Wallachian court after 1698 (starting with
the reign of Constantin Brâncoveanu).
Partly destroyed by natural disasters and rebuilt several times
during the following 200 years, hit by Caragea's plague in 1813-1814,
the city was wrested from Ottoman control and occupied at several intervals
by the Habsburg Monarchy (1716, 1737, 1789) and Imperial Russia (three
times between 1768 and 1806).
It was placed under Russian administration between 1828 and the
Crimean War, with an interlude during the Bucharest-centered 1848 Wallachian
revolution, and an Austrian garrison took possession after the Russian
departure (remaining in the city until March 1857). Additionally, on
March 23, 1847, a fire consumed about 2,000 buildings of Bucharest,
destroying a third of the city. The social divide between rich and poor
was described at the time by Ferdinand Lassalle as making the city "a
savage hotchpotch".
In 1861, when Wallachia and Moldavia were united to form the Principality
of Romania, Bucharest became the new nation's capital; in 1881, it became
the political centre of the newly-proclaimed Kingdom of Romania.
During the second half of the 19th century, due to its new status,
the city's population increased dramatically, and a new period of urban
development began. The extravagant architecture and cosmopolitan high
culture of this period won Bucharest the nickname of "The Paris of the
East" (or "Little Paris", Micul Paris), with Calea Victoriei as its
Champs-Élysées or Fifth Avenue.
Modern Bucharest
Between December 6, 1916 and November 1918, it was occupied by German
forces, the legitimate capital being moved to Iaşi. After World War
I, Bucharest became the capital of Greater Romania. As the capital of
an Axis country, Bucharest suffered heavy losses during World War II,
due to Allied bombings, and, on August 23, 1944, saw the the royal coup
which brought Romania into the anti-German camp, suffering a short but
destructive period of Luftwaffe bombings in reprisal. On November 8,
1945, the king's birthday, the Soviet-backed Petru Groza government
suppressed pro-monarchist rallies.
During Nicolae Ceauşescu's leadership (1965-1989), most of the historic
part of the city was destroyed and replaced with Communist-style buildings,
particularly high-rise apartment blocks.
The best example of this is the development called Centrul Civic
(the Civic Centre), including the Palace of the Parliament, where an
entire historic quarter was razed to make way for Ceauşescu's grandomanic
constructions. In 1977, a strong 7.4 on the Richter-scale earthquake
claimed 1,500 lives and destroyed many old buildings. Nevertheless,
some historic neighbourhoods did survive to this day.
The Romanian Revolution of 1989 began with mass anti-Ceauşescu protests
in Timişoara in December 1989 and continued in Bucharest, leading to
the overthrow of the Communist regime. Dissatisfied with the post-revolutionary
leadership of the National Salvation Front, students' leagues and opposition
groups organized large-scale protests continued in 1990 (the Golaniad),
which were violently stopped by the miners of Valea Jiului (the Mineriad).
Several other Mineriads followed, the results of which included a government
change.
After the year 2000, due to the advent of Romania's economic boom,
the city has modernised and is currently undergoing a period of urban
renewal. Various residential and commercial developments are underway,
particularly in the northern districts, while Bucharest's historic centre
is currently undergoing significant restoration.
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Read More about Bucharest at:
The Bucharest town hall
|
|
|
|
From the Rest Romania Website at
|
|
|
In
County Ilfov
See a Road Map of the Bucharest Area
Bucharest Henri Coandă Airport (Otopeni Airport)
to or Weekly
to or Weekly
to or Weekly
Communications
Search
for
on other websites!
Read more about in the Encyclopaedia!
RestRomânia.ro