Halloween in Transylvania

“ Halloween in Transylvania”

A Vampire Vacation, Romania!

Oct 29 – Nov 5, 2025 Price at end of the itinerary

Prepare your costumes for our new AFS Monster Ball at Count Dracula’s castle for your spookiest Halloween ever! Our festivities begin with a toast of vampire wine, then on to the Torture Museum, a Middle Ages Witch Trial, and a night walk through a 15th-century graveyard. So many surprises await you to make this unforgettable. So creepy and authentic, even Vlad, the Impaler, would cringe on our new vampire vacation in a land bedtime forgot.

Don’t care to party? Our AFS culture vultures will love our daily walking tours on cobbled streets through medieval towns, the UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the architectural wonders of ornate churches and monasteries along the way. It’s totally educational. Legends will unfold before your eyes as we tour the Saxon town of Brasov, medieval Sighisoara, Bucharest 14th-century Sibiu, Prahova Valley and gypsy villages in between.

Romania gives a fascinating insight into unique cultures, centuries old, as well as natural beauty from the Carpathian Mountains to the Black Sea. The hills of Transylvania pop with living colors in fall. Each day, you’ll learn of tales and myths. Our highlights: Tours of legendary Bran Castle dating back to 1377. Enjoy horse and carriage ride through countryside, daily walking tours, visit to the stunning Peles Castle, the Snagov Monastery and so much more.

Our past groups went all out on their costumes and ended up on Romania television. This year, seems everyone wants to celebrate here and it’s bigger than ever, so we bought your tickets a year in advance. (I believe our GTL’s will be contending to lead this. We already hear some of you want to extend on to Bulgaria.) Don’t miss the most memorable party and Vampire Vacation to make this your best Halloween ever. It’s wild, it’s spooky and together we’ll have a bloody good time!

Meet Count Dracula, the centuries-old vampire and proud Transylvanian nobleman. This descendant of the fierce Scythians and Attila the Hun resides in the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a castle nestled deep within the Carpathian Mountains. A conversation with Jonathan Harker offers a glimpse into Dracula’s soul, revealing a deep-seated pride in his noble heritage and a longing for the past. racula’s thirst for knowledge led him to the prestigious Scholomance Academy, a school of Black Magic located in the Carpathian Mountains near the city of Sibiu (also known as Hermannstadt). Here, he honed his dark craft, becoming the powerful vampire we know today.

The legend of Dracula, the iconic creature of the night, draws its roots from the dark history of Vlad Ţepeş, the merciless 15th-century ruler of Wallachia. Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel “Dracula” forever cemented the character of the bloodthirsty Count in our collective imagination. But few know that the name Dracula wasn’t always associated with terror – it originated from the Order of the Dragon, a crusader order that Vlad and his father were part of. The chilling myths surrounding Dracula as a vampire stem from the haunting folklore of Transylvania, a land steeped in tales of the undead. Dracula’s story intertwines with that of Vlad Ţepes, the infamous ruler of the Wallachians. Vlad, also known as Vlad the Impaler waged war against the German merchants of Braşov, who refused to pay him the dues owed from their trade. Bran Castle, situated near Brașov and along the path to Wallachia, played a pivotal role in these campaigns. As the closest pass to Brașov, it connected Vlad’s seat of power in Târgovişte to the lands beyond. Though a work of fiction, Bram Stoker’s Dracula draws inspiration from the rich history and folklore of the Carpathian region. The character of Count Dracula, with his noble pride and thirst for power, is a fitting tribute to the complex and often brutal figures of the past, like Vlad Ţepes.

Our Glorious Goriest Itinerary

Tap for a printable PDF itinerary

Tap for a printable itinerary

Oct 29 – Fly USA to Bucharest. Many airlines fly here via Europe. Consider adding to stop over enroute on own if you like. More details to come in trip tips.

Oct 30 – Welcome to Romania!

Your adventure begins as you arrive at Henri Coanda Airport. Transfer to hotel.

Bucharest, known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards, glorious Belle Époque buildings and a reputation for the high life (which in the early 1900s earned its nickname of “Little Paris”), Bucharest, Romania’s largest city and capital, is today a bustling metropolis. Legend has it that the city of Bucharest was founded by a shepherd named Bucur, whose name literally means “joy.” His flute playing reportedly dazzled the people and his hearty wine from nearby vineyards endeared him to the local traders, who gave his name to the place. There’s plenty to do and see here from handicraft markets to cool museums.

This evening, we enjoy a spooky Welcome Dinner featuring a Dracula-themed experience, where you’ll dine in a setting inspired by the legendary vampire tales and toast vampire wine with your fellow travelers.

Romanian cuisine is a delicious blend of hearty meat dishes, fresh vegetables, and fragrant spices, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Traditional dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mămăligă (polenta), and ciorbă (soup) are flavorful and satisfying. With its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques, Romanian food is a culinary delight that showcases the best of the country’s gastronomic traditions.

Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Overnight: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham 3 5 B Poligrafiei Avenue, Bucharest, ph. +40-021-5492000

Oct 31 – Bucharest, Sinaia, Brasov – Castle & Monistary

About Transylvania: It’s a region in central Romania, is known for its well-preserved medieval towns, fortified churches, and picturesque villages. The scenic beauty of the Carpathian Mountains, rolling hills, and lush forests makes it a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors are drawn to Bran Castle, often called Dracula’s Castle due to its association with the legend of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker’s vampire. The rich cultural heritage, including traditional folk architecture, handicrafts, and lively festivals, offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Exploring Transylvania is like stepping back in time, with its unique blend of natural splendor and historical charm.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a fascinating excursion. Travel to Snagov Monastery, situated on a serene island in Snagov Lake. This historic site is reputed to be the final resting place of Vlad Ţepeş, the inspiration for Dracula. Explore the monastery and its tranquil surroundings. You’ll appreciate the beautiful frescoes and icons that remain today in this place of worship.

Next, drive through the Prahova Valley to Sinaia, the “pearl of the Carpathians”, famous for skiing and adventure sports. We visit stunning Peles Castle, the opulent summer residence of Queen Mary, nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. Its fairytale-like architecture and lavish interiors are sure to captivate you. This Neo-renaissance castle was built in 1873. It is fully furnished with priceless art, exquisite furniture, 800 stained glass windows and 170 rooms, each depicting a European country.

Continue your journey to Brasov around 3 hours. Brasov is one of the most beautiful and visited places in Romania. It was founded in 1211 by the Teutonic Knights on an ancient Dacian site. In the 13th century, Brasov was settled by the Saxons and shortly became one of Transylvania’s seven-walled citadels, Siebenburgen. Check into our hotel in time for a group dinner.

Brasov, a charming city in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, rich history, and natural beauty. The city’s historic center, with its colorful buildings, picturesque streets, and lively squares, is a joy to explore on foot. The iconic Black Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, dominates the main square, while the nearby Rope Street is one of the narrowest in Eastern Europe. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains from the top of Mount Tampa, accessible by a scenic cable car ride. From its well-preserved medieval fortifications to its lively cultural scene, Brasov offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.

Breakfast and Dinner

Overnight: Aro Palace 5* or similar

Nov 1 – Brasov – Count Dracula Party at Bran Castle!

After breakfast, enjoy a guided walking tour of Brasov. Discover the historical charm of the City Council Square, the Black Church (the largest Gothic church in Southeastern Europe), and the medieval Ecaterina’s Gate. Stroll along Strada Sforii, one of the narrowest streets in Europe.

Bran Castle, commonly known as Dracula’s Castle, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Transylvania, Romania. Perched atop a hill, the medieval fortress dominates the surrounding landscape with its turrets, towers, and battlements. Stepping inside, you’ll discover a labyrinth of grand halls, ornate chambers, and secret passages that bring to life the legends of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker’s iconic vampire. The castle’s museum showcases a collection of furniture and artifacts that reflect the luxurious lifestyle of Queen Marie, who once called the castle home. From the grandeur of the Great Hall to the forebodingness of the dungeons, Bran Castle is a place where myth and history intertwine, offering an unforgettable glimpse into Transylvania’s fascinating past. We then tour the haunting, gothic Bran Castle, also called Dracula’s Castle, which was built by the Saxons in 1377. Vlad Tepas, the Impaler (a.k.a Dracula) seized it in 1460. Learn the history of its residents and marvel at the macabre artifacts.

In the afternoon, prepare your costumes! They will be judged with prizes for the best ones, but you can dress anywhere you like. Transfer to Bran to visit the legendary Dracula’s Castle. Participate in a Halloween-themed tour and party at the castle, immersing yourself in the spooky atmosphere of one of Romania’s most famous landmarks. Evening at Bran Castle, the experience consists of a special Castle Tour, access to Halloween party and a 4-course meal wth a glass of wine – surprises await.

The Count Special Guest Ticket – Your ticket includes entrance to the castle decorated in Hollywood themes. Party on the grounds with music and special effects . It runs from 6PM to 4AM. (Please note – this is an invitation only. Other tour groups will be participating. The Gov. admin of Transylvania organizes it. AFS is not responsible for content changes of program. If you are claustrophobic, note it comprises special effects, actors interacting with visitors, dark corners and very low light.). We will arrange some scheduled bus rides available for the return journey from Bran Castle back to Hotel in Brasov.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner Overnight: Aro Palace 5* or similar

Nov 2 – Sighisoara to Transylvania. Birthplace of Vlad

Sighisoara, a medieval town in Transylvania, Romania, is a living museum of the region’s rich history and culture. The town’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with colorful buildings, charming squares, and cobblestone streets that seem frozen in time. Visitors can walk along the town walls, climb the 64-meter-high Clock Tower, and explore the Church on the Hill, a beautiful Gothic church with stunning views. The house where Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula, was born is now a popular restaurant, adding to the town’s legendary appeal. With its well-preserved fortifications, picturesque architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Sighisoara is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Transylvania.

After breakfast, we check out and travel approximately two hours to the birthplace of Vlad and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This medieval town has well-deserved fortifications and charming architecture.

Explore the cobbled streets in this perfectly intact 15th-century gem with nine towers, secret passageways and ornate churches crowned with a hilltop citadel. Here is the birthplace of Dracula. He ruled here 1456-1462. Enjoy a toast of “Vampire Wine” in his birth house, and you will love the Clock Tower, the Torture Chamber and the Weapons Hall.

At dusk, our festivities begin when we witness the reenactment of a Middle Ages Witch Trial.

We continue for a gloomy 14th-century Graveyard Walking tour, which takes around 1 hour. Description of the experience: ‘You will spot the final resting places of stone masons, builders, weavers, and blacksmiths. Interesting alleys await you to discover the witch stories. Be prepared for a little hike as you climb the world’s oldest wooden-covered stairwell to reach the summit.

In the evening, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobbled streets and explore the atmospheric cellar during a local Halloween celebration.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton 4* or similar.

Nov 3 – Sighisoara – Sibiu

After breakfast, proceed over the mountains approx. 2 hours to Sibiu., The largest medieval town in Transylvania and awarded the European Cultural Capital 2007.

Sibiu (Hermannstadt in German) was the largest and wealthiest of the seven walled citadels (Siebenburgen) founded in the 12th century by German settlers known as ‘Transylvanian Saxons’. The riches amassed by its guilds paid for the construction of both impressive buildings and the fortifications required to protect them.

Afternoon – Explore the city’s fortified churches and discover the vibrant traditions of the Gypsy villages in Jina and Marginimea Sibiului. Gain insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Romanian Gypsies. The villages in Transylvania are proud of their traditional architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings.

Continue a city tour of Sibiu’s medieval center. Visit the Large Square with Brukenthal Palace, Haller House, and Council Tower; the Small Square with Liar’s Bridge; and Huet Square with the Evangelical Church. Experience the blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy in one of Romania’s most beautiful cities.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner Overnight: Continental Forum 4* or similar

Nov 4 – Sibiu to Bucharest City Tour

Enjoy breakfast and return to Bucharest, covering a distance of 280 km for a City Tour.

Admire iconic landmarks such as the Palace of the Parliament. Next, visit the Romanian Arch of Triumph. Built in 1922 to honor the Romanian soldiers who fought WWI, Bucharest’s Arch of Triumph also symbolizes Romania’s Latin heritage and its strong ties with France.

Continue and stop visit Victory Square Designed in 1692 to connect the Old Princely Court to Mogosoaia Palace, Calea Victoriei (initially named Podul Mogoșoaiei) was originally paved with oak beams. In 1878, the street was renamed Calea Victoriei, to mark Romania’s victory in its Independence War against the Ottoman Empire. Our tour will end with visit Roman Square, and University Square. With some free time for souvenir shopping and grazing at outdoor cafés.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner. Overnight: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham 4* or similar

Nov 5 – Departure Home

After breakfast, leisure morning and transfer to airport for departure flight. Note: In case the arrival flight is very late, also the departure will be later, so we will have enough time now for the city tour that was initially scheduled for the arrival day.

Land Price: $1795 per person twins share. Based on 26 participants. Single rooms limited at additional $495

TOUR COST INCLUDES:

Accommodation on twin/double sharing room basis at listed hotels above or equivalent
Buffet breakfast at the hotel and 6 dinners as mentioned
Welcome Dinner (Dracula themed) at Bucharest
Halloween Special Party Ticket including dinner
Witch trial experience and graveyard walk
Horse carriage ride of Sighisoara medieval town
Entrance fees as per itinerary: Dracula’s Castle, Snagov Monastery, Peles Castle,Sighisoara Cellar, Fortified Church)

Luggage service in the hotels
All transfers, sightseeing’s by luxury coach with Wi-Fi on board.
English speaking driver & full-time tour manager with AFS GTL
1 bottle of mineral water daily during tours and transfers.
All currently applicable taxes

Not included- gratuities $90pp that will be added to your invoice for ease of distribution. Or international air from USA. We will have suggestions on air in the trip tips. If they’re not posted yet, they will be shortly.

Have you read the Trip Tips yet? Scroll to the top of the page and click the link.

Itineraries are prepared up to a year ahead and things can change. Modifications may be made.

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AFS Romania Travel Trip Tips 2025

01/29/25
Prepare to be thrilled by our Halloween in Transylvania, loved by all past groups. Romania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets for its historical past, unique culture and natural wonders from the Carpathian mountains to Black Sea. The people are so friendly and the local peasant farm cuisine’s delicious. You will tour the best parts from Bucharest to six towns, UNESCO sites, castles and villages in between. It’s not just spooky fun but so culturally educational. We have a wonderful group of 30 travel lovers. Connect on your Facebook page. After final payments are in, we will be sending you more information, so check back later.

Trip Tips are designed to answer trip-related questions. It’s your responsibility to read this information. Updates and addendums will be posted here. Some travelers have lost their entire trip for not reading what we send on visas, air details, inoculations, etc. Check back from time to time.

Payment – We partner with Wetravel for secure, fee-free electronic check payments. Simply follow their instructions. Credit card payments incur a processing fee. To minimize costs and offer the best prices, we prefer electronic checks. Alternatively, you can pay by check without mailing it: make it out to AFS, take a photo, and text it to 770-432-8225. We’ll process the payment at no extra charge.

50% of FINAL DUE JUN 18 & FINAL PAYMENT DUE July 15. Wetravel is our data management company, it allows you to pay by check electronically without a fee. Simply follow the instructions. Credit cards will be assessed a processing fee at time of purchase. As a small business, this helps mitigate costs and allows us to give you the very best price. You can also pay by check without mailing it by making it out to AFS, taking a photo of it and texting it to 770-432-8225 and we will enter the information for you at no extra credit card fee.

Your fearless GTL (Gracious Trip Leader, not a guide but a liaison between our guides and group to ensure things run smoothly.)

Meet Deanna, an adventurous traveler from Atlanta who’s explored over 60 countries. Since joining the AFS family in 2017, her background in Photography, Graphic Design, and IT/Communications has made her invaluable. Deanna loves crafting stunning social media posts and troubleshooting tech issues, all while maintaining an active lifestyle with fitness, skiing, snorkeling, and hiking. Fluent in French and always eager to share travel tips, Deanna’s leadership and enthusiasm make every trip she leads unforgettable.

Trip Prep:
• Read the revised Heading Abroad with AFS, especially if you are new to AFS.
• Ensure your passport is valid 6 months after return date with two blank pages – these are Visa pages, not addendum pages. Take a photo of your passport to store in the cloud or bring a copy. If you lose your passport, US embassies now except a digital copy from your email.
• Notify bank and cc company of travel dates so they don’t block charges.
• All airline rules differ. It is imperative to read your airline rules on their website to ensure a smooth departure! Always check your flight before departure.

Visa – none

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Fitness level –– Moderate walks and activities daily. You should be able to walk one mile in 20 minutes. If you have concerns, text your name at 770-432-8225 to discuss. (Know your limits! AFS trips are generally soft adventures with moderate activity. Our trips are large fun and can be active. All tours involve walking, at times extensive with uneven pavement. As we age, we think we can do what we used to do but discover on the trip an activity is too strenuous and are slowing down the entire group. If you think you need something tamer, check out Eldertreks – they specialize in trips for older folks. We cannot be responsible for booking a trip beyond your skill level and physical stamina. AFS is all about having a good time. Please be respectful of your fellow AFS Travelers and consider choosing an itinerary that is more conducive to your needs so you can thoroughly enjoy your trip!)

AIR INFORMATION – Consider flying in early to ensure you’ll be there once trip begins. Always download and use your airlines app! Use app to track your booking, delays, bags, to show boarding pass and to contact them. If you have a flight problem go to the airline’s website “contact us” page or reach them by text, social media, Skype or call their international number. Also, premium credit cards often offer many air perks, assistance, insurance, lounge passes, global entry and more. Read more at www.tpg.com for best cards.

Many say they want to fly business class but don’t realize fare range from 4K to 9K. We do have two good contacts that can get sometimes get seats near half cost. [email protected] 305-390-4132 or see skylux.com or [email protected].

Group Air: None. Sometimes we offer group air but find few people book sometimes find better rates on own direct from hometown. This provides you better flexibility to go early or extend at trip end. I know we will not meet the minimum required to make a group booking since this is a small group.

Important Air Dates: Oct 29-Nov 5

Air is easy round-trip USA to Bucharest. Depart October 29 or earlier. Return home November 5.

Dozens of airlines fly to Bucharest. You may want to add a stopover with the airline of your choice. Or at a pre-or post trip extension. Some mentioned Bulgaria or Albania. Now is the time to get your air for Halloween in Romania! Land starts Oct 30 at Ramada Hotel. It’s nice to go into Bucharest a day early to shop traditional markets like Obor market and graze the endless cafés in old town.

Doing Own Air– We like Google Flights. 3rd-party booking engines like Expedia, make it easy to book, but it is nearly impossible to handle air problems. Buy direct from airline or pay a travel agent to ticket you. If you need help air with the economy seat, our guy Delhi can help; email [email protected] with your exact air dates, destination, passport name, and details with birthdate.

About Airport Transfers- we may offer one common group airport transfer based on majority of flight arrival times. Deanna will be collecting these details from you later.

Due to the complexity of managing individual flight schedules, and with people arriving on different days and times it’s impossible to provide a group transfer. We’ll collect everyone’s flight information through a form, arrival transfers will only be available if we have a minimum of 10 people arriving at similar times. Travelers arriving outside this group transfer windows will need to arrange their own transportation to the hotel via taxi or Uber. This shift aligns with current industry standards, as most major tour companies have already moved to having travelers arrange their own arrival transfers. Like our industry peers, we’ve found this to be the most practical solution for everyone involved. Rest assured, we will still provide a return transfer to the airport on the final day of the tour. As we get closer to the departure date, we’ll send you a form to collect your exact flight details, which we’ll need for coordinating both potential arrival transfers and your guaranteed departure transfer.

Meet Up With Group- On OCT 30 a time will be set to meet the group at the hotel for a briefing. More on this later.

Baggage– Think light to ease your burden, not like you’re fleeing your homeland. You change hotel properties 5 times. 1 carry-on bag & 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 45lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale. Apple AirTags work great to track checked bags when the airline cannot, also good for carry-on. Leave space for great souvenirs. Be sure to attach ID inside and out of carry-on and checked bag.

Packing- Google weather in Bucharest a week prior departure – should be in the 60’s for a high. The Carpathian mountains would be colder in the mid 40s.

For a Halloween trip to Romania, pack layers of warm clothing like sweaters, jackets, long-sleeved shirts, and comfortable walking shoes, as the autumn weather can be chilly, especially in the evenings; remember to include a costume appropriate for a festive atmosphere, and consider bringing a raincoat or umbrella for potential rain showers; don’t forget essentials like hat, day pack, comfy walking shoes, and a power adapter.

Halloween Party – there are many parties but the best party is at Brann castle. Always held November 1. 8 PM to 2 AM but we’ll have transfers running back early. Costumes are optional but everyone please dress up! We have seen some AFSers have gone all out bringing extra luggage for this. Details will come with your tickets later.

Cool travel hacks from our AFSers! Pack overnight outfit in your carry-on, liquid IV packets to hydrate, use packing cubes, downy wrinkle spray, Apple AirTags, extra nylon bag to check laundry home, tons of US dollars for extra tips, fully charged travel banks, less is more, get global entry.

Electric– Don’t forget a portable backup charger, cords, gadgets, etc. Cell phones and tablets do not need a converter; you only need an adapter plug. AFSers often leave charger cords in room, so be sure to double-check your room before check out. All properties have hairdryers. Plug Type F common European plug. See https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com

Money Matters – Always bring some cash! You will need some cash for personal tipping, meals, and shopping. $300 cash should suffice. Change currency on arrival at airport, bank, or hotels or withdraw local currency from an ATM. Note -independent ATMs are risky due to skimmer scams. Safest ATMs are at airport and banks. Always shield your pin number when entering.

Master Card and Visa widely accepted. Amex rarely accepted. Credit cards are far safer than using your debit card. I use my credit card for most purchases. Many cards now offer no foreign transaction fees.

Currency Exchange Rate $1 = 4.80 RON or Euros
https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/

Gratuities – please note that we have included $90 in tips to your final invoice for ease of distribution. We hired the top ground teams in each country. It’s protocol to tip our guides, assistants, drivers, porters, staff and more for each group abroad. Discretionary tips help ensure a good relationship and the only thing we travelers leave behind is our reputation.

Tipping on own – If service is stellar, feel free to give more directly. All we tourists leave behind is our reputation. I carry a stash of US ones in an envelope to draw from as needed. Porters – AFSers roll bags to their room. If you use a porter, please tip. For group lunches or dinners included, please leave $2 for waitstaff!

Communication– Internet is available. With smartphones, be sure to check with your provider for rates and coverage for international phone plans before departure. Data Roaming rates can be expensive. To reach home – Texting, iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook messaging when using WIFI. Be cautious using public Wi-Fi without using VPN. Without VPN never open attachments or view financial or personal accounts on the Internet while abroad. Phone calls, text messages, and data usage of all kinds, it is crucial to understand that, unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, every use of your phone incurs a data toll. That means that viewing and downloading email, browsing the web, viewing social media, and mapping all incur data charges, as do applications that we sometimes assume to be “free,” such as Skype and WhatsApp. Unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, however, WhatsApp is using cellular data, so you are getting charged at your provider’s international roaming data rate. Facebook Messenger Phone is an easy free way to make calls.

Safety: AFS, safety of our Travelers is our priority since our inception in 1989. Our local teams constantly monitor any issues with your destination. They can access real time safety updates and inform us if necessary.

Avoiding Hackers on Vacation. Thieves not only want your money but also your data. Change passwords often. Check device security settings before you leave for your trip. Back up, update, and encrypt your devices and data using a virtual VPN. Since 1989, your safety is our primary concern. Our local teams are experts, constantly monitoring any issues with your destinations. They can access real-time safety issues and will keep us informed if necessary.

Photography – Before taking pictures of locals, know it is polite to ask. Your AFS Private Facebook Group Page is a great way to share your best shots with each other. AFS loves photos with group participants (not typical churches, monuments, or any shot that looks like you pulled it off of the net, etc.) for our website. The best photos are ones that include a group member with a local, children, animals, or at iconic sites in the same frame!

Websites of Interest:

Romania Tourism: romaniatourism.com (https://www.romaniatourism.com/)
www.romaniafriend.com.
Lonely planet/Transylvania.

Chewing- Romanian cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors and traditions, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural influences. Signature dishes include mămăligă (cornmeal porridge) served with various toppings, hearty sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice), and mititei (grilled sausages seasoned with garlic and spices). The use of fresh ingredients, such as locally sourced meats, vegetables, and herbs, enhances the flavors of traditional dishes. Desserts like cozonac (sweet bread filled with nuts or cocoa) and papanasi (fried cheese donuts topped with sour cream and jam) offer a sweet ending to meals. Additionally, Romania’s wine and plum brandy, known as țuică, complement its rich culinary heritage, making dining a true cultural experience.

Accommodations – Our itinerary has links to each hotel. Hotels can change, but it’s rare. If you’re going early and we used to stay in the same hotel, the best price independently you can find is on the hotels website.

Roommates – Single supplements have significantly increased in price– if available at all. Save money and buy yourself an awesome local gift. We all live alone, but save money when traveling by rooming together. Suzy spends a lot of time on roommate matching. 99% of our clients are wonderful and you’re only in your room to sleep at night. The best option is to invite a friend. Note, kindness begets kindness. Many of our seasoned travelers bring headsets to drown out any excess noise. We share rooms only to sleep at night.

Please understand if the AFS room list ends up with unbalanced gender, and forces a single room, we will offer it to all in group. If all decline, we split the added forced cost single room. If you were the last to book we may have to remove you from the trip unless you share in the supplement cost

Leisure Time – For your free time, it’s best to arrive and ask our local expert guides for suggestions. We notice many newer clients pre-plan many activities on the AFS trip well before they arrive, often with disappointing results. Our daily itineraries are pretty full, but there will be some free time. Expert travelers revel in the element of surprise in a new destination and allow the wind to blow them where it will. Use Google Maps on your phone to find everything nearby.

Amending tour pre-or post-trip. We honor your independent spirit, but encourage you to extend more days at the trip’s end when you’re acclimated well to the destination. If you add another country, we often see many AFSers on Facebook urging others to join them what do you consider the cost of tours, transport, hotels, etc. Stopovers are great to add, but understand AFS has no responsibility for the quality of your trip. Please understand that we are a group tour organizer and do not have the time or resources sources to arrange private vacations for individuals.

Private Facebook Group Page – The benefit of the Private FB Group Page is that you have an opportunity to introduce yourself to your fellow travelers before departure and share trip photos during and after the tour. The link can be found in your Wetravel welcome letter after your initial deposit. (We found that some never read the Trip Tips jumping right to the Private FB Group Page assuming they will get all trip info needed. Often, they only receive rumors or misinformation. All important information is ALWAYS emailed to each participant and posted in Trip Tips under UPDATES. Nobody misses a thing.)

Emergency Contact – AFS phone or text 770-432-8225, or email us at https://afstravelers.com/contact-us/ More contacts will be provided with your Final Docs email 2 to 3 weeks before departure. Your guide can handle a call home for a true emergency. Do not expect to use your trip leader’s cell phone; you’ll need to use your own.

Cancellation Policy – At Adventures For Solo Travelers (AFS), we understand that sometimes unforeseen circumstances may require you to cancel your tour. We have established the following cancellation policy to provide clarity and fairness to all our travelers; thus keeping in line with other tour operators and global suppliers today. See website for details

Travel Insurance– While travel insurance is optional, in today’s world we highly encourage you to get standard coverage to cover trip interruption and cancellation. Best source for all is www.insuremytrip.com. CFAR or cancel for any reason covers Covid but is expensive. Note that no company covers for fear.

Preexisting conditions – If you would like the security of travel insurance and have a pre-existing condition (elderly parent, medical, etc.), you must purchase insurance within 15 days from your initial trip deposit in order to assure full coverage. The trip cost can be amended or adjusted as needed after your initial purchase (eg. like adding an air ticket cost later). You can buy travel insurance at any time, just know that there may be some possible limitations if purchased outside the 15 day period. We like TravelSafe, Allianz or Seven Corners.

Click here to Purchase Travel Insurance online

AFS Group Etiquette – Prepare for your departure joyfully with no contempt before investigation upon arrival. Please understand that with travel, things are not like at home and changes may occur. Great trips work best for those with an open mind, flexible attitude and adventuresome spirit. If changes occur, embrace them with serendipity. Who knows?… The unexpected may prove to be a better experience. Adapt and go with the flow with a laid-back attitude. Be spontaneous. Be tolerant of foreign cultures in respecting their centuries of traditions. Embrace the differences. Be curious, not shy. Smile – locals will sense your energy of kindness and kindness always begets kindness. Our common goal is to experience different cultures, make new friends, get great photos, have large fun, and return home safely with memories worthy of recollection.

10 Commandments for AFS Travelers

Thou shall not expect to find things as thou hast at home, for thou hast left thy home to find things different.
Thou shall not take anything too seriously.A carefree mind is the beginning of a fun vacation.
Thou shall not let other group members get on thy nerves, for thou art paying good money to enjoy thyself.
Thou shall not forget that doist represent America (Canada too) at all times. Kindness begets kindness, ugliness begets ugliness.
Thou shall not worry. This is for thine AFS trip leader. They who worry hath no pleasure, and few things are fatal.
Remember thy passport at all times. A person without a passport is a person without a country.
Blessed is the person who can say “thank you” in any language
When in Rome, do as the Romans do
Do not judge the people of a foreign land by one person with whom thou hast had trouble.
Remember, thou art a guest in each land. They who treateth their host with respect shall be treated as a guest of honor.

Please note that AFS is non-partisan – With our homogeneous groups, we all want to focus on the common denominator – our love of travel. In today’s divisive world, we suggest members not discuss politics and if you must, please practice my rule of TOK: Tolerance, Open-mindedness and Kindness.