The Enchanting Black Sea Coast of Romania

• HelloSalut
  [sah-LOOT]
• GoodbyeLa revedere
  [lah reh-veh-DEH-reh]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNu
  [noo]
• Please/You're welcomeTe rog
  [teh rohg]
• Thank youMulțumesc
  [mool-tzoo-MESK]
• Excuse me/SorryScuzați-mă
  [skoo-ZA-tzuh muh]
• How are you?Ce mai faci?
  [cheh my fahch?]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [bee-neh. shee too?]
• Do you speak English?Vorbiți engleză?
  [vor-BEETZ een-GLEH-zuh?]
• I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [noo uhn-tseh-leg]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [ush doh-REE suh vad meh-NYOOHL, vuh rohg]
• I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [noo muh-NAHNC KAR-neh]
• Cheers!Noroc!
  [noh-ROHK]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAș dori să plătesc, vă rog
  [ush doh-REE suh PLAH-tesk, vuh rohg]

• Help!Ajutor!
  [ah-ZHOO-tor]
• Go away!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
• Call the Police!Sunați Poliția!
  [soo-NAHTS poh-LEE-tsee-ah]
• Call a doctor!Sunați un doctor!
  [soo-NAHTS oon dohk-TOHR]
• I'm lostM-am rătăcit
  [mahm ruh-tuh-CHEET]
• I'm illSunt bolnav
  [soont bohl-NAHV]

• I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
  [ush doh-REE suh KOOM-puhr]
• I'm just lookingDoar mă uit
  [dwahr muh ooit]
• How much is it?Cât costă?
  [kaht kohs-TUH?]
• That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [ehs-teh prah scoomp]
• Can you lower the price?Puteți să scădeți prețul?
  [poo-TEHTZ suh skuh-DEHTS pretz-OOL]

• What time is it?Cât este ceasul?
  [kaht yehs-teh chyah-SOOL?]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [ehs-teh oh-rah oon-oo]
• Half past (10)Jumătate (la zece)
  [zhoo-muh-TAH-teh (lah ZEH-che)]
• MorningDimineața
  [dee-mee-NYAH-tsa]
• AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [doo-puh ah-mee-ah-ZAH]
• EveningSeara
  [seh-AH-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yehr]
• TodayAstăzi
  [ahs-TUHZ]
• TomorrowMâine
  [muh-YEH-neh]
• 1Unu
  [oo-NOO]
• 2Doi
  [doy]
• 3Treisprezece
  [tray-speh-ZEH-che]
• 4Patru
  [PAH-troo]
• 5Cinci
  [cheench]
• 6Șase
  [shah-seh]
• 7Șapte
  [shahp-teh]
• 8Opt
  [opt]
• 9Nouă
  [noo-uh]
• 10Zece
  [zeh-che]

• Where's a/the...?Unde este...?
  [oon-deh yehs-teh]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [kah-reh yehs-teh ah-DREH-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puteți să-mi arătați (pe hartă)?
  [poo-TEHTZ suh-mee ah-RAH-tahtz (peh hahr-TUH)]
• When's the next (bus)?Când este următorul (autobuz)?
  [kahnd yehs-teh oor-MAH-toh-rool (ow-toh-BOOZ)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (către ....)
  [oon bee-LET (kuh-treh)]

In the 7th century BC, the ancient Greeks established colonies along the Black Sea coast, including Tomis (now Constanța) and Callatis (now Mangalia). These settlements became thriving centers of trade and culture, linking the Greek world with the local Thracian tribes.

In the 1st century AD, the Romans conquered the region and integrated it into the province of Moesia. Tomis was renamed Constantiana in honor of Emperor Constantine the Great's sister. The city flourished as a significant port and trading hub under Roman rule, and remnants of Roman baths, mosaics, and other structures can still be seen today.

Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Black Sea coast came under the control of the Byzantine Empire. The area continued to thrive as a crossroads of trade and culture. The city of Tomis, known as Constantiana, maintained its strategic importance, evidenced by numerous Byzantine fortifications and religious structures.

During the medieval period, the Black Sea coast was a contested region, with influences from Bulgarians, Tatars, and the Ottoman Empire. By the 13th century, the Genoese established trading posts in the area, enhancing the region's economic significance. They traded goods such as grain, fish, and wine, leaving an indelible mark on local commerce.

In the 15th century, the Ottomans conquered the Black Sea coast, incorporating it into their vast empire. The region remained under Ottoman control for several centuries, during which time the coastal cities continued to develop. Ottoman architecture, such as mosques and baths, can still be seen in towns like Mangalia and Constanța.

Following the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, Romania gained independence, and the Black Sea coast became an integral part of the new nation. The port city of Constanța experienced significant growth, becoming Romania's primary maritime gateway. Today, the coast is a popular tourist destination, renowned for its historical sites, cultural heritage, and stunning beaches.

The Black Sea Coast in Romania is accessible via several means. The nearest major airport is Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport near Constanța, which offers both domestic and international flights. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport and then take a train or bus to the coast. From Bucharest, the journey to Constanța by train takes about 2.5 hours. Bus services are also available, and driving is another option for those who prefer a road trip.

Public transportation along the Black Sea Coast is efficient and affordable. Trains connect major cities like Constanța, Mangalia, and others, with frequent services during the summer months. Buses and minibuses (maxi-taxis) provide connections between smaller towns and resorts. Taxis are readily available but ensure to use registered taxis and agree on a fare beforehand. Car rentals are an option for those who want more flexibility in their travel plans.

The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in larger towns and tourist areas, but make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

The Black Sea Coast is generally safe for tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to remain vigilant.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which covers police, fire, and medical emergencies. Hospitals and medical clinics are available in major towns like Constanța. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious practices. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket when using public transport. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Romanian people appreciate politeness and formal greetings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality as it is considered rude.

To experience the Black Sea Coast like a local, visit the traditional markets where you can purchase fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about their region. Don't miss the chance to explore lesser-known beaches and coastal villages for a more authentic experience. Try local seafood dishes and wines, and participate in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the culture.