Basic Etiquette

Yawning without covering your mouth is rude. Romanians frequently say "Sanatate" (Good health) or "Noroc" in response to sneezes (Good luck). It is considerate to offer an elderly person your seat. Romanians may extend a hand to an older person to assist them in rising from their seat, extend an arm to aid them walk, or hold or open doors for them.

Many Romanian men are encouraged to treat women with chivalry (e.g. opening doors and allowing them to enter). Older males may still kiss their women's hands as a greeting, but this practice is fading. Before going inside buildings, take off your headwear. Speaking to someone of a higher standing while chewing gum or keeping your hands in your pockets is disrespectful.

In order to demonstrate respect for the person they are meeting, people are expected to dress smartly in a professional situation. Older Romanians might dress more traditionally, making sure their shoulders and legs are covered. Fighting about who will pay the bill is frequent (and even polite). In Romania, tipping is widely accepted. Tipping is customary for all service providers, including medical professionals.