[AJA Global Report] No More Dracula in Romania

Rehearsal of <Dracula; The Musical> (Photo: Newsis)

When hearing about Romania, the first thing that pops out in people’s mind is the horrid count, count Dracula. The thirsty vampires, the wandering bats, the scared people, the terror that fills the night, stories of the medieval times that still brings shivers in the spine of the listener. But, of course, that is not what Romania is all about. Behind the spooky tales, there lies a quiet land, with warm and happy people, thirsty not for blood, but for adventure. Not with terrified minds, but with serene ones, the ones that enjoy the freedom and the calm of nature, the ones that find joy in the little things and for which happiness is the peace of the soul.

For such people, pleasure is not in busy places or large crowds. Is out there, in nature where mind and universe become one. The beauty of the Romanian landscape surpasses any expectation. The mountains, the sea, the delta, the rivers, the meadows, the lakes, the forests all gathered together in that tiny piece of land in eastern Europe, delighting the eyes and soul of whoever sees them.

Fagaras, Carpathian Mountains (Photo from travel-to-romania.tumblr.com/pinterest)

The Carpathian mountains surrounding the central county Transylvania, are the perfect place for any kind of traveller. Those keen of quiet places and meditating can sit by the dense shadow of the forest, or hike up to the mountain peak to enjoy the view. Hiking the Carpathians is a challenge for adventures and the beauty that awaits them on the way makes
the climb well worth it. The fresh mountain air, the clear spring water, the harmonious sounds of nature will make one’s body and mind stronger.

Balea Lake and Transfagarasan (Photo from Pinterest)

For those into different kind of adventures, who prefer cars to walking, they can explore one of the world’s most dangerous and most beautiful roads to drive one. The serpentines provide spectacular views of two of the highest peaks in the country, Moldoveanu, and the second highest Negoiu. The road leads to the top area where the travellers can enjoy traditional food provided by locals and sit by the quiet Balea lake. The view from there is breathtaking and so it is what follows after.

Bran Castle (Photo from Pinterest)

The mountains also hides the famous places of the old stories. Not far from Transfagarasan, there is the Bran Castle, where the ruler Vlad Tepes reigned. He used to be a severe king, and in his time any kind of injustice was paid with the price of life. Therefore, no one ever dared to steal, or commit evil towards their neighbours, as they knew what awaits them if otherwise. The story might sound familiar, because nowadays the castle is known as Dracula’s Castle, and Vlad Tepes was the inspiration for the blood thirsty count from the tales.

Danube Delta (Photo from Pinterest)

Moving from mountains to the sea, following the quiet waters of the Danube river we get to its delta. Right before flowing into the Black Sea, the Danube rivers forms one of the most beautiful deltas in the world, with flora and fauna that conquers the hearts of its visitors. The water lily, the birds, the cannels, all create a dreamy landscape, filling your mind and soul with peace.

Romania is more than just the land of Dracula tales. Romania is the land of the dreamer, the adventurer and the traveller. It would take a lifetime to discover all the pretty places these lands hide, but for those eager for exploring, it will be worth to try. They will finish their journey with peace in their minds and love in their souls.

By Madalina Barta, Romania, AJA Global Report