#331
Fairy tale in
Romania
From: Kirstie Jeffries, blogger
@www.vengavalevamos.com
WHERE: Transylvania,
Romania
WHY: Tourism in Romania
may be growing in popularity,
but for many, the name
“Transylvania” still conveys
images of a spooky land
replete with vampires, thanks
to Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
However, this region in
Romania is actually one of
the most beautiful spots on
earth and remains inexpensive
and uncrowded even in peak
season. Transylvania’s rolling
hills, elaborate castles, and
picturesque villages make the
destination truly something
straight out of a fairy tale.
Transylvania is easily
reachable by train from
Romania’s capital, Bucharest,
or visitors can fly directly to
international airports in the
Transylvanian cities of ClujNapoca or Sibiu. Some of the
region’s most charming towns
include Brasov, Sibiu, and
Sighisoara.
To make the most of
Transylvania’s architecture,
be sure to pay a visit to
some of its 100 castles and
fortresses and 70 fortified
churches, such as Peles Castle
in Sinaia or Bran Castle near
Brasov. For the nature fan,
Transylvania is home to the
Carpathian mountains, a
fantastic spot for hiking. If
you’re a foodie, Romanian
cuisine is hearty, inexpensive,
and absolutely delectable,
so be sure to try the region’s
specialties when visiting.
Romania is easily one of my
favorite countries in the world,
and with good reason! Add it
to your travel list for 2016 and
you won’t be disappointed.
WHEN: Spring or summer
to enjoy Romania’s natural
beauty — don’t worry
too much about it being
inundated with tourists even
then!
46 Travel Secrets November-December 2015