Europe

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

 

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

 

Crime

 

You are advised to maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK.  You should also be alert to the risk of petty theft in large towns, especially in Bucharest, and for pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas, particularly near exchange shops, hotels, on public transport (especially to the airport), main railway stations and inside airport terminals.  Organised attacks by groups, often including children, occur.  The most common method is of distraction whilst several people, often the children, attempt to snatch watches and jewellery from pockets or from around the neck and wrist. We have also heard reports of a scam involving thieves who present themselves as plain-clothes policemen. They flash a badge and often ask to see passports and wallets.  Thye count the money and give the documents back, but when they return the wallet, some of the money is missing.

 

We are aware of thefts of valuables including passports from hotel rooms.  Items of value, including passports and credit cards should be deposited in hotel safes.  However, you should carry a photocopy of the information pages of your passport as ID.

 

You should be aware that there are reports of credit or charge cards being 'copied' when used in some bars and restaurants, resulting in illegal charges being raised against the user account.

 

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

 

Political Situation

 

Romania Country Profile

 

Local Travel 

 

Bucharest has cheap and plentiful public transport provided by underground, bus, and tram.  Yellow taxis are also abundant but make sure prices are listed on the side of the vehicle and that the taxi bears a company name.  There are frequent reports of foreign visitors being overcharged by taxi drivers.  Other cities have fairly good bus services.  Cities and towns are linked by extensive rail services.  If travelling on a domestic air flight, you should have your passport ready for inspection at all times.

 

If you are driving to Romania, please note that on entry you are required to pay a road toll to allow you to use the national roads.  Tolls are charged on motorways and main roads out of town, payable in Euros.  Upon payment, ensure you receive and display the windscreen stickers confirming you have paid the toll.  Please note that failure to pay the road toll or to display the sticker may lead to a heavy fine.

 

The cost for cars is three Euros for a one-week vignette or six Euros for one month, but prices may change.  Costs are higher for freight vehicles and coaches for eight or more passengers.  Tickets can be purchased at border points on entering the country or at post offices and at most petrol stations throughout Romania.

 

Road Travel

 

If driving, you need to be alert for horse-drawn carts and livestock especially at night.  The police carry out frequent checks, and it is essential that you observe the speed limit, ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and have with you all your car documents including evidence of insurance valid in Romania.  It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol (alcohol level over 0.1%).  Given the very low limit, you are advised not to drink any alcohol if you are driving. 

 

In winter, equip your car for extreme conditions.

In 2007 there were 2,791 road deaths in Romania (source: DfT).  This equates to 12.9 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007.

 

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

 

Rail Travel

 

If travelling by train, you should check with operators on the availability of sleeping compartments and whether bicycles can be taken on board.  This may vary between regions, and there may be additional charges.  Thieves operate on trains, so take particular care that documents and other valuables are safe.