The Rough Guide to Romania, Fourth Edition

Paperback - 29 November, 2004 - Rough Guides
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By: Tim Burford and Norm Longley
ISBN: 184353326X

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Reviews by readers

A good guide to an interesting country

I used the "Rough Guide" for a visit to Romania in 2003. Traveling mostly by train, without any pre-arranged plans or reservations, we found this guide accurate and up-to-date. Few Romanians speak English or other world languages, so it's a bit more of an adventure traveling on the cheap than in most of Europe. You may need to resort to the 2 pages of Romanian words and phrases in the guide. Given the sorry state of the US dollar, Romania is also one of very few European countries which is still relatively inexpensive for Americans.

As a country Romania is scenic and pleasant, much sunnier and more open than the legend of Dracula portends. We visited most of the places associated with Dracula and enjoyed looking into the country's rich history and ethnic background: Romanian, Hungarian, Turk, and German. Other than complaints about unemployment and corrupt politicians, we didn't encounter much to suggest the country's well-publicized dark side.

The "Rough Guide" was a competent guide to most of what you would like to know about Romania. For example, among the interesting tidbits in the book, is the sidebar about the beginning of the Romanian revolution in 1989 in the city of Timisoara, a place worth visiting.

Smallchief

Excellent Travel Guide to a Rustic and Charming Land

I highly recommend this Rough Guide book and second the vote on previous review about this being the best travel guide to Roumania.

About Rough Guide style:
This is the first time I'm using a rough guide and really appreciate their engaging, thorough, informative and reliable style. Unlike other guides Rough Guides does not cater to any particular demographic age group or particular budget standards. Not to mention that the writers are experienced travel writers and have extensive experience in Romania and region.

About this being a travel book to Romania:
The organization of the book, the writing style makes you want to actually visit the country and experience it. Very informative historically and regionally, without being overbearing. Also very ecclective with regards to things to do and see: historical sights, cultural events, activities, culinary, nature wonders.

Having been born in Romania and having spent the first half of my life under the Ceaucescu regime, I find this book a refreshing reminder of all the wonderful sights that I have only seen or read in books and finally been able to see and experience in person. This country has a rich historical heritage, a complex mix of minorities, and a tumultous past. Everytime I visit Romania I discover something new, enigmatic, and idyllic. This guide has definitely been a helpful tool towards enjoying my re-discovery of Romania.

Be aware that (as in other cultures) there are some very nationalistic Romanians who are not very considerate towards the various minorities in Romania and their contributions to the region. Transylvania in particular is an interesting amalgam of various cultures and languages. The name of the country can be spelled three different ways in English: Romania, Rumania, or Roumania. I would take the negative reviews with a grain of salt.

OK info, bad organization

The information is not organized in a user-friendly manner. I bought this guide and the Lonely Planet, and basically did not use the Rough Guide because it's not differentiated by category.

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