Moldova
Travel tips for Moldova: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cards widely accepted. Cards are widely accepted at restaurants and supermarkets in Chișinău, but you will need cash for buses, markets, tipping, and taxis. Note that international cards do not work at all if you visit the breakaway region of Transnistria.
Try the food
- Mamaliga (Mămăligă): A dense, bright yellow cornmeal porridge traditionally served alongside salty sheep's cheese, sour cream, and garlic sauce.
- Placinta (Plăcintă): A flaky, pan-fried or baked pastry generously stuffed with fillings like soft cheese, dill, cabbage, or sour cherries.
- Sarmale: Tender cabbage or grape leaves rolled tightly around a savory mixture of minced pork, rice, and caramelized onions.
Say it in Romanian
- Hello: Bună ziua
- Thank you: Mulțumesc
- Please: Vă rog
- Excuse me: Scuzați-mă
- How much is this?: Cât costă?
- The bill please: Nota de plată, vă rog
- Yes / No: Da / Nu
- Goodbye: La revedere
Essentials
- Plugs
- Type C / Type F
- Voltage
- 230V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Right side
- Tap water
- Avoid — buy bottled
- Emergency
- 112 (all services)
- SIM tip
- Pick up a prepaid Orange or Moldcell SIM card at Chișinău International Airport or city kiosks for inexpensive and fast 4G data.
Etiquette
Tipping around 10 percent is standard in restaurants, and you should always remove your shoes when entering a local's home.