After living just over a year here in Bucharest, I can properly say things in this city are different. It may not be the most attractive city I've ever lived in and it certainly doesn't win any points for the purest air or the cleanest streets, but it has something special and that might just be related to it's rough edges, hidden attractions and idiosyncrasies.
Some of the things I've noticed about life in Bucharest include the following: Cars park on the sidewalks and the concept of poop and scoop has not arrived yet; there are loads of inexpensive taxis everywhere; you can smoke pretty much anywhere, and people do; fur hats and coats are ubiquitous so if you feel strongly about PETA you probably don't want to come here; yes, there is a stray dog problem and they do open the garbage bags left out on the street; there are lots of beautiful parks; the Romanians love their meat and potatoes and their Ciorbas or soups, but the Turks have a strong influence here and there are Kebab and Shaorma places on almost every corner. All the food is cheap and delicious. I have found the Romanians to be very friendly especially if you make an effort to learn the language or offer up a smile when involved in a transaction. The street names are virtually impossible to pronounce; the area known as Lipscani is a treasure loaded with great little cafes, shops, clubs and restaurants. They have a number of very impressive and modern malls, if that's your thing, and IKEA is here, of course. The more I get to know the city the more I realize all the great things it has to offer. It will never be everyone's cup of tea, but if you are intrepid, and willing to take the good with the bad and the ugly, then you will probably enjoy this developing chip off the Eastern Bloc. Noroc!
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