Unspoilt Beauty
If you venture off the usual road in Romania, you will find yourself in a different universe. Many settlements in Romania's countryside are not used to seeing tourists, so you'll feel as if you're discovering something new. Everyone is cordially invited.
In fact, one of the most appealing aspects of visiting Romania is how warm and hospitable the people are.
Crit, near Sighisoara, one of Transylvania's oldest villages, was one of the villages we visited. Its peacefulness and tranquility contribute to its allure, as do the rows of pastel-colored dwellings.
Ciocănești is another village where you feel as if you've stepped back in time. It is known for its painted buildings embellished with traditional patterns and is located in Suceava County, Bucovina.
It all began when one of the locals wanted to adorn her home with traditional motifs embroidered on folk clothes, and after tourists expressed interest, the mayor decreed that all newly constructed houses be done in the same manner.
This custom has been passed down the years, and it is considered that the more extravagant your decorations are, the better a householder you are, therefore there can be fierce competition in the community.
