The Truth about Life in Romania: the Romanian Social Butterfly

       

     

    I promised I would tell you small bits and pieces about life in Romania, and here comes the first installment, which, I should mention, applies more to life in Bucharest and major cities. Being in the first part of autumn, good weather is slowly starting to leave us. But during spring, summer and the first part of autumn, Bucharest vibrates with social life and events of all kinds, especially in the open air. Concerts, theatre festivals in the streets, international manifestations, exhibitions, organized city exploration, and so-so much more. During the warmer time of year, it is impossible not to find something to do, or some event to attend, by day or by night. And all these events generate huge crowds, because most of them tend to be free of charge. 

                             

       And here comes the first Romanian specimen we'll talk about, and which I admit I often identify with: the social butterfly. If free time is not a problem, or at least during weekends, Romanians like to put their gladrags on, take their friends, significant other or family members, and go out. People of all ages: from families with kids and even pets, to groups of youngsters, to senior citizens. For us, it's a method to relax, learn new things, and spend some time in the open with our dear ones. We don't have to spend a fortune if we don't want. It's simply about going outside and enjoying the city. Sometimes I feel there is a deep desire for beauty, in the middle of a pretty stressful everyday life. Like a small oasis of joy. After all, why shouldn't we break away from the TV and the gloomy news we are being given every day? ;) 

                             

     But mind you: we usually tend to go out accompanied by our own circles of close people. Therefore, it happens very rarely to go out by yourself with the purpose of making new friends. See the difference? We shall talk at a later date about Romanians and friendship. But for the time being, keep in mind that if you want to visit Romania, and especially Bucharest, there is plenty to be seen, apart from the traditional touristic attraction. In fact, the pictures I have chosen are from three events that I recently attended:  an exploration itinerary in the old city with its architecture, an artisanal artefacts fair, and last autumn's 555th anniversary of Bucharest, which included lots of fairs and artistic performances.      Sometimes, you won't know what to choose between the various cultural manifestations. You will never get bored!