Moldova Mini Guide
The landlocked country of Moldova in North Eastern Europe has had much conflict in its history but is now gradually opening itself up to tourism. It is also trying to become a part of the European Union. Moldova used to be known as the garden country of the former Soviet Union because agriculture was widely practised there. The climate is accordingly agreeable making Moldova a pleasant place to visit. Today there are many charming villages, museums and monasteries within Moldova which are worth visiting.
Moldova is divided into 32 Rayons or provinces and its capital city is Chisinau. Its second largest city, Balti, is worth taking a walk around and exploring. Both these cities have excellent restaurants and good food and wine generally. There are also some good wine routes and tours which you can go on within Moldova.
Travellers coming from America, the European Union, countries within the former Soviet Union, Canada, Japan, Norway and Switzerland do not need a visa to enter Moldova. They can stay in the country for up to 90 days within a six month period without registration. The national carrier is Air Moldova and the main airport is Chisinau international airport. Airlines which go to and from Moldova include Air Baltic Malev Hungarian airlines, Austrian airlines, Siberia Airlines and Turkish Airlines.
If you are coming from the one of Moldova’s neighbouring countries, the Ukraine, into Moldova via Transnistria (a self-proclaimed republic within Moldova) then be careful as you will probably be asked for a bribe before they let you in. This is because Transnistria is a breakaway region in the east of Moldova which has a Slavic minority population mostly made up of Russians and Ukrainians. If you do come in from Transnistria then make sure you register upon arrival otherwise you may find it difficult trying to get out again.
It is possible to fly into Moldova from many major European cities including Moscow, Vienna, Budapest and Istanbul. If you are coming by train the cheapest option is to take the overnight service from Bucharest in Romania, the other country which borders Moldova. The main languages of Moldova are Russian and Romanian and its people are overwhelmingly of the orthodox Christian denomination. There are many different types of accommodation options in Moldova including two, three, and four star hotels such as the VisPas, Vila Verde and Olimpia.
Moldova Factfile
- Is a landlocked Eastern state in Europe by Romania and Ukraine
- Chisnau is the capital and largest city in Moldova and it's busiest airport is found there
- It was declare independent from the former Soviet Union in 1991
- Approximately 3.5 million people call Moldova home