Travel Essentials & Safety π·π΄
Travel Essentials & Safety π·π΄
Description: The official currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). While cards are widely accepted in restaurants and supermarkets in Bran, we recommend carrying some cash for small local shops or mountain tips.
If you prefer to exchange cash into the local currency, it is highly recommended to bring Euros (EUR) or US Dollars (USD). Other currencies might not be as easily accepted at local exchange offices.Β
In the Carpathian Mountains, bears are part of the natural landscape. Seeing one is a powerful experience, but it requires respect and caution. At Casa Voinescu, we want our guests to explore the Romanian wilderness with confidence and safety.
1. On the Hiking Trails: Prevention & Encounter
Bears generally avoid humans and will move away if they hear you coming. The goal is to never surprise a bear at close range.
Make Noise: Talk loudly, sing, or chat with your group. Silence is your enemy on a mountain trail.
The "Short Whistle" Trick: We highly recommend carrying a whistle. A few short, sharp blasts every 10β15 minutes (especially in thick vegetation or near running water) is the best way to announce your presence.
Face-to-Face Encounter: In the rare event that you meet a bear face-to-face:
Do NOT lift your hands: Avoid sudden movements or trying to look bigger by waving your arms; the bear may perceive this as an act of aggression or an imminent attack.
Stay Calm & Retreat: Do not run. Slowly and quietly back away in the opposite direction, keeping your eyes on the bear without making direct, aggressive eye contact. Give the animal a clear escape route.
2. On the Road (TransfΔgΔrΔΘan & Beyond): Stay in the Car!
You will likely see bears by the side of the road on high-altitude routes. For your safety and the bear's survival, follow these strict rules:
Keep Driving: Do not stop your car to watch or film. This creates dangerous traffic situations and teaches bears to associate cars with people.
NEVER Feed the Bears: Feeding a bear is a death sentence for the animal. Once a bear learns to expect food from humans, it becomes a "problem bear" and will eventually have to be relocated or put down.
Huge Fines: Romanian authorities have a zero-tolerance policy. There are very high fines (up to 10,000 RON) for anyone caught feeding or approaching bears for photos.
Stay Inside: Never exit your vehicle for a "selfie." A bear is unpredictably fast and can cover short distances in seconds.
Local Tip: A fed bear is a dead bear. By keeping your distance and making your presence known through noise, you protect yourself and help us keep the Carpathian wildlife wild.