Iasi - The Cultural Heart of Romania

• HelloSalut
  [sah-loot]
• GoodbyePa
  [pah]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNu
  [noo]
• Please/You're welcomeTe rog
  [teh rohg]
• Thank youMulțumesc
  [mool-tsoo-mesk]
• Excuse me/SorryScuzați-mă
  [skoo-zah-tzuh mah]
• How are you?Ce mai faci?
  [cheh my fahch?]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [bee-neh. shi too?]
• Do you speak English?Vorbiți engleză?
  [vor-beetz eng-leh-zah?]
• I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [noo in-tseh-leg]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [ush doh-ree suh vud meh-nyool, vuh rog]
• I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [noo muh-nuhnk kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Noroc!
  [noh-rohk]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAș dori să plătesc, vă rog
  [ush doh-ree suh pluh-tesk, vuh rog]

• Help!Ajutor!
  [ah-yoo-tor]
• Go away!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
• Call the Police!Apelați Poliția!
  [ah-peh-lahts poh-lee-tsya]
• Call a doctor!Apelați un doctor!
  [ah-peh-lahts 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
  [doh-ahr muh ooeet]
• How much is it?Cât costă?
  [kaht kohs-tuh?]
• That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [yehs-teh prah skoomp]
• Can you lower the price?Puteți să reduceți prețul?
  [poo-tehts suh reh-doo-chets preh-tsool?]

• What time is it?Cât este ora?
  [kaht yehs-teh oh-rah?]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [yehs-teh oh-rah oonoo]
• Half past (10)Jumătate (zece)
  [joo-muh-ta-teh zeh-cheh]
• MorningDimineața
  [dee-mee-neh-tsa]
• AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [doo-puh ah-mee-ah-zah]
• EveningSeara
  [seh-ah-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yehr]
• TodayAstăzi
  [ah-stuhz]
• TomorrowMâine
  [muh-ee-neh]
• 1Unu
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• 2Doi
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• 3Trei
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• 4Patru
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• 5Cinci
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• 6Șase
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• 7Șapte
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• 8Opt
  [opt]
• 9Nouă
  [noo-uh]
• 10Zece
  [zeh-cheh]

• Where's a/the...?Unde este unul/o...
  [oon-deh yehs-teh oo-noo/oh...]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [cah-reh yehs-teh ah-dreh-sah?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puteți să-mi arătați (pe hartă)?
  [poo-tehts suh-mee ah-rah-tahts (peh hahr-tuh)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Când este următorul (autobuz)?
  [kahnd yehs-teh oor-muh-toh-rool (ow-toh-booz)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (spre ....)
  [oon bee-let (spreh ....)]

Iasi, often referred to as the cultural capital of Romania, has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. Its founding is attributed to the Moldavian voivode (prince) Alexandru cel Bun, who established the city as a significant administrative and commercial center in 1408. The city was strategically located on trade routes, fostering its growth and importance in the region.

The 17th century marked a golden age for Iasi, under the rule of Vasile Lupu, the Moldavian prince who reigned from 1634 to 1653. During his reign, Iasi flourished culturally and economically. Vasile Lupu was a great patron of the arts and education, founding the Princely Academy in 1640 and commissioning the construction of the Trei Ierarhi Monastery, an architectural marvel known for its intricate stone carvings and unique design.

The 18th century saw Iasi under the influence of the Phanariots, Greek administrators appointed by the Ottoman Empire. This period, although marked by heavy taxation and political instability, also saw the introduction of new architectural styles and cultural influences. The city maintained its status as a key center of learning and culture, with the establishment of numerous schools and churches.

A pivotal moment in Iasi's history occurred in 1859 with the Union of the Principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia, leading to the formation of modern Romania. Iasi played a crucial role in this unification process, serving as the capital of Moldavia. Alexandru Ioan Cuza, the first ruler of the united principalities, was proclaimed the ruler in Iasi, cementing the city's place in Romanian history.

During World War I, Iasi became the temporary capital of Romania from 1916 to 1918 after Bucharest fell to the Central Powers. This period was one of great hardship but also resilience, as the city hosted the Romanian government, royal family, and thousands of refugees. The city's role as a safe haven during the war is a testament to its strategic and cultural significance.

Iasi has long been recognized as a major center of culture and education. The University of Iasi, established in 1860, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Romania. The city is also home to numerous theaters, museums, and cultural institutions, including the Vasile Alecsandri National Theater and the Palace of Culture, which houses four different museums. These institutions have played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Romanian culture and heritage.

Today, Iasi is a vibrant city that blends its rich historical past with modern development. It remains a crucial academic and cultural hub, attracting students and tourists from around the world. The city's historical landmarks, such as the Copou Park, the Golia Monastery, and the Union Square, continue to draw visitors interested in exploring Iasi's unique heritage and dynamic present.

Iasi is accessible via air, rail, and road. The Iasi International Airport (IAS) connects the city to various European destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to get into the city. If you prefer traveling by train, Iasi is well-connected to other major Romanian cities like Bucharest through CFR (Romanian Railways). Buses and coaches also offer services from various cities, and driving is an option for those who prefer road trips.

Public transportation in Iasi includes buses and trams operated by Compania de Transport Public Iasi (CTP Iasi). Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or directly from the driver. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are also operational. For a more local experience, you can rent a bike or walk, as many attractions are within walking distance.

The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments or markets. ATMs are widely available across the city for cash withdrawals.

Iasi is generally a safe city for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as public transport, markets, and tourist attractions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and always keep an eye on your belongings. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Major hospitals in Iasi include the Sf. Spiridon Hospital and the Iasi County Emergency Hospital. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and cover your head. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Iasi like a local, visit the local markets such as Piata Alexandru cel Bun for fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share their stories. Don't miss the famous Copou Park, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For a unique cultural experience, attend a performance at the Vasile Alecsandri National Theatre. Additionally, try local dishes like 'mici' and 'sarmale' at traditional restaurants.