Moldova Travel Guide

Full Name

Republic of Moldova

Former Name

Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic; Moldovan Soviet Socialist Republic

Capital City

Chisinau

Government Type

republic

Area Size

33,843 sq km

Time Zone

UTC/GMT +2 hours

Climate

Very mild and pleasant. Temperate with warm summers 20 to 23°C, crisp, sunny autumns and cold, sometimes snowy, winters.

Geography

The largest part of the country lies between two rivers, the Dniester and the Prut. Moldova's rich soil and temperate continental climate (with warm summers and mild winters) have made the country one of the most productive agricultural regions and a major supplier of agricultural products in the region. The western border of Moldova is formed by the Prut river, which joins the Danube before flowing into the Black Sea. In the north-east, the Dniester is the main river, flowing through the country from north to south. The country is landlocked, even though it is very close to the Black Sea. While the northern part of the country is hilly, elevations never exceed 430 metres, the highest point being the Dealul Bălăneşti. The country's main cities are the capital Chişinău, in the centre of the country, Tiraspol (in Transnistria), Bălţi and Tighina.

Languages

Moldovan (official, virtually the same as the Romanian language), Russian, Gagauz (a Turkish dialect)

Culture

Located geographically at the crossroads of Latin and Slavic cultures, Moldova has enriched its own culture adopting and maintaining some of the traditions of its neighbors. The Prince Dimitrie Cantemir is one of the most important figures of Moldavian culture of the 18th century. Cantemir wrote the first geographical, ethnographical and economic description of the country in Descriptio Moldaviae.

History

Formerly part of Romania, Moldova was incorporated into the Soviet Union at the close of World War II. Although independent from the USSR since 1991, Russian forces have remained on Moldovan territory east of the Dniester River supporting the Slavic majority population, mostly Ukrainians and Russians, who have proclaimed a "Transnistria" republic. The poorest nation in Europe, Moldova became the first former Soviet state to elect a Communist as its president in 2001.

Travel Information

The national airlines are Air Moldova (9U) and Moldavian Airlines (2M). Chisinau International (KIV) is 14km from the city centre. There is a regular bus service to the city. Taxis are also available. Facilities: Bank, ATMs, post office, left luggage, car hire, snack bars, and shops, including duty-free. From London and Berlin it is possible to travel by rail to Chisinau, either via Bucharest or Warsaw. Tickets are very inexpensive between the latter countries and Moldova. Moldova can be entered from Ukraine (although the self-proclaimed ‘Republic of Transnistria’ area around Tiraspol should be avoided at present) and also from Romania via the border crossing at Leusheni, Sculeni and Giurgiulesti. From Chisinau to Odessa is 183km.

Accommodation

There is a small selection of hotels in the capital Chisinau, most of which are located close to the railway station and in the city centre. There are some lower-grade hotels in other towns.

Visa Requirements

Visas are not required by nationals of the EU, Canada and USA for stays of up to 90 days except nationals of Australia who do require a visa. Nationals of Australia need a letter of invitation and in some cases a return ticket. All foreign visitors must register with the police within three days of arrival. For stays exceeding three months, a formal invitation is required. Nationals not referred to above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements. Validity of tourist visas; one month from date of issue. Apply to consulate or consular section at embassy. Passport valid for at least six months required by all nationals of countries referred to above.

Getting Around

The railway in Moldova is run by Calea Ferata din Moldova (CFM). There are connections to most parts of the country and beyond. Roads outside of Chisinau are generally in a bad condition. Traffic drives on the right. Buses run between most of the larger towns and cities. Taxi can be found everywhere. Fares should be negotiated in advance, though drivers prefer to charge per hour. There are a few car hire companies in Chisinau. Buses, trolleybuses and minibuses are cheap but notoriously crowded and unreliable. They all operate from 0500-2400 with services every 15 minutes. Tickets for buses and trolleybuses can be purchased from kiosks or on board the vehicle. Minibus tickets are bought from the driver.

Health & Safety

Travellers are adviced to take special precautions for Diphtheria, Hepititis A and Tetanus. Depending on the season and region visited, travellers may need vaccinations for Rabies and Typhoid. Vaccination is sometimes recommended for tick-borne encephalitis. Travellers staying longer than three months may be required to produce proof of HIV-negative status. Mains water is normally chlorinated but bottled water is available and advised. Local meat, poultry, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat. The standard of medical care in Moldova is below that available in some other European countries. Non Russian/Romanian speakers may encounter difficulties in a medical emergency. The embassy has details of English-speaking doctors. A number of large medical institutions operate in Chisinau, including the Republican Clinical Hospital. Elderly travellers and those with existing health problems may be at risk owing to inadequate medical facilities. There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK for urgent medical treatment. Otherwise, all services and prescriptions are charged for and doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment; medical insurance is strongly recommended. The threat from terrorism is low. But travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks. Caution is advised if considering travelling to Transnistria. You should be vigilant to petty crime, particularly in Chisinau. It is advised to always carry a photocopy of your passport for identification purposes, as police checks are frequent.

National Holidays

1 Jan- New Year’s Day. 7-8 Jan - Moldovan Christmas. 8 Mar - International Women’s Day. 9 Apr - Easter Monday (Orthodox). 1 May - Labour Day. 9 May - Victory and Commemoration Day. 27 Aug - Independence Day. 31 Aug - Limba Noastra (National Language Day).

Currency

Moldovan Leu (MDL)

Electricity

220v AC, 50Hz

Working Hours

Office hours: Mon-Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm.

Emergency Numbers

903(Ambulance) 901(Fire) 902(Police)