Local Customs & Etiquette in Bucharest, Bucureşti, Romania
1. Tipping Culture
Tipping is expected in restaurants and taxis. A 10% tip is standard, but many people round up the bill.
- Dining Out: Understanding the expected tip for a meal can help avoid confusion.
- Taxis: Knowing when and how much to tip in taxis is useful for smooth travel.
- Service Industry: Recognizing that tips are an integral part of the income for service workers.
2. Greeting Customs
A firm handshake and direct eye contact are customary when meeting someone for the first time. For close friends, a double cheek kiss is common.
- Friendly Environment: Knowing the appropriate greeting can help build rapport quickly.
- Professional Settings: Understanding when a handshake is appropriate in professional settings.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting personal space and cultural norms during greetings.
3. Dress Code in Churches
Visitors to Orthodox churches should dress modestly. Women are expected to wear skirts or dresses that cover their knees and shoulders.
- Respect for Religion: Demonstrating respect for Romanian culture and Orthodox religion.
- Preparedness: Packing appropriate clothing for visits to churches.
- Cultural Awareness: Understanding the significance of modesty in Romanian Orthodoxy.
4. Smoking Etiquette
Smoking is less restricted than other European cities, but it is prohibited indoors in most public places.
- Health Concerns: Being aware of the health risks and potential discomfort caused by secondhand smoke.
- Public Spaces: Knowing which outdoor areas are designated for smoking.
- Social Norms: Respecting the preferences of non-smokers in shared spaces.
5. Public Transport Manners
Prioritize standing space for elderly or pregnant people and offer your seat when available.
- Respectful Society: Demonstrating empathy and kindness towards vulnerable passengers.
- Crowded Conditions: Knowing how to navigate and find your way through crowded buses or trams.
- Personal Belongings: Keeping personal belongings secure during travel on public transportation.
6. Drinking in Public Spaces
Open containers of alcohol are allowed in some designated public areas, such as streets with outdoor cafes and Beer Gardens.
- Cultural Experience: Experiencing the local nightlife by enjoying drinks in outdoor spaces.
- Laws and Regulations: Understanding which public areas allow drinking and the associated rules.
- Responsible Consumption: Practicing responsible consumption of alcohol in these spaces.
7. Busking Etiquette
Street performers or buskers often collect money through open containers. It's customary to offer a small amount if you are pleased with the performance.
- Support for Local Artists: Encouraging local talent and artistic expression by donating if you enjoy a performance.
- Street Safety: Avoiding distractions while walking on busy streets with performers.
- Cultural Appreciation: Recognizing and appreciating Romania's rich artistic heritage through street performances.
8. Invitations to a Romanian Home
Accepting an invitation to someone's home is a great honor. Bringing wine or flowers as a gift is customary.
- Hospitality: Understanding and embracing the warmth and hospitality of Romanian people.
- Gift-Giving: Knowing what types of gifts are appropriate for various social situations.
- Reciprocity: Being prepared to reciprocate a home visit if you are invited.
9. Dining with Romanians
Dinners often last long and can involve many courses. Expect conversation to be lively and animated.
- Cultural Exchange: Learning about Romanian culture through shared meals with locals.
- Patience: Being prepared for leisurely, multi-course meals and lengthy conversations.
- Appreciation of Food: Enjoying the delicious Romanian cuisine and expressing your appreciation.
10. Local Holidays
Understanding and respecting local holidays such as National Day (December 1) and Easter can help you avoid crowded attractions and plan your trip accordingly.
- Cultural Awareness: Recognizing the significance of local holidays in Romania.
- Avoiding Crowds: Planning your visit around national holidays to avoid crowded attractions.
- Respectful Travel: Celebrating local holidays by learning about their traditions and history.
11. Communication Styles
Romans tend to be expressive and passionate in their speech. Direct questions are common, but expect long conversations and animated discussions.
- Cultural Exchange: Gaining insights into the rich cultural heritage of Romania through open and honest communication.
- Patience: Being patient during lengthy, detailed conversations.
- Active Listening: Practicing active listening to fully understand and appreciate Romanian perspectives.
12. Local Sports Culture
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Romania. Fans are passionate and loud during matches.
- Cultural Experience: Experiencing the excitement of a football match with local fans.
- Safety Considerations: Avoiding confrontations or altercations during intense matches.
- Respect for Fans: Understanding and respecting the passion that Romanian football fans bring to matches.
13. Public Space Behavior
Littering is not tolerated in public spaces. Keep your area clean and dispose of waste properly.
- Environmental Responsibility: Protecting the environment by keeping public spaces clean.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting local values and attitudes towards littering.
- Personal Responsibility: Taking responsibility for your waste in public spaces.
14. Local Music and Dance
Attend a traditional Romanian music or dance performance to experience the rich cultural heritage.
- Cultural Experience: Immersing yourself in Romanian culture through live music and dance performances.
- Entertainment Value: Enjoying the lively, energetic performances that showcase traditional Romanian music and dance.
- Respectful Audience Behavior: Understanding appropriate audience behavior during these performances.
15. Market Etiquette
Bargaining is common and expected in markets. Be polite but firm when negotiating prices.
- Cultural Exchange: Engaging with local vendors to learn about traditional Romanian goods.
- Negotiation Skills: Practicing your bargaining skills to get the best price for items.
- Respectful Interaction: Maintaining a respectful and friendly interaction with market vendors.