Moldova
Moldova is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe with its capital and largest city in Chisinau. April to May is the ideal travel time to visit Moldova as the temperature is mild and the countryside is alive with color. The climate seasons in Moldova is split into summer, fall, spring and winter seasons. The Moldovan ethnic group is the largest and major ethnic group in Moldova, while the Romanians, Ukrainians, Gagauz, Russians and Bulgarians form the minority ethnic group. The people of Moldova are predominantly Christians however; the other religion practiced here is Judaism. The best known Moldova dish is the Romanian dish (Cornmeal mush/porridge). Other popularly eaten food eaten here include, Sarmale, Placinta, Mamaliga and Zeama. Romanian (Moldovan) is the official language, but you will hear the locals speaking Ukrainian, Gagauz and Bulgarian too.
There are a few options for getting around Moldova, from driving yourself to public transport to trekking on your feet. You can use trolley buses, taxis, minibuses, trains, or motorcycles for getting around the city. Moldova is a relatively safe country for travelers to visit. It is advisable to avoid large crowds and be vigilant. It is not recommended to walk the streets at night because they are often not well lit and you are likely to trip over something in the dark, or get hit by a car that can’t see you.
The Moldovan culture, traditions, music, dance and folklore is alive in its festivals and events. The annual Moldova Wine Festival is one of the most popularly celebrated. The festivals in Moldova are a blend of contemporary music, drama, vibrant arts, food and wine. Whenever you are visiting Moldova, you should attend the Festei Theatre Festival, Night of Museums, Martisor Music Festival and Ethno Jazz Festival.
Moldova is a perfect tourist destination with its breathtaking attractions, sights and cultural landmarks. Fascinating places of interest you should absolutely see while exploring Moldova include:
The Milestii Mici Wine Cellar, the world’s largest underground winery is known after the largest wine collection in the world, which got a place in the Guinness Book of Records. You can book a guided tour to experience the true Moldovan tradition and taste exquisite wine.
The Pushkin Museum was known as the A.S. Pushkin’s House which was converted to a museum. The museum houses more than 30,000 artifacts and pieces symbolic with Eastern Europe and Russian art and culture.
National History Museum of Moldova, which features more than 17,376 art pieces that are symbolic of the Paleolithic, Bronze and Iron Age, Neolithic, Roman Era, Pre-Feudal Periods and also the Middle Ages.
Orheiul Vechi, Moldova’s most beautiful historical site is a crumbling open-air monastic complex dating over 2,000 years. The rambling ruins feature ancient fortifications, baths and monasteries.
There are over 10,000 hotels and apartments to stay in Moldova, so you will be spoiled for choice especially when in Chisinau.