10 Reasons Why I Chose to Live in Romania as a Haitian-French Expat

"Why have you chosen to live in Romania?" or, even more often, "What are you still doing in Romania?" These are questions I face on a weekly basis. As a Haitian-French foreigner, the curiosity—often laced with sarcasm—comes from both people I meet and those I’ve known for years. Surprisingly, the first to ask are often Romanians themselves, as they grapple with their own complicated relationship with their country’s history and challenges. Many are puzzled that someone from abroad would find Romania appealing and choose to stay.

Despite the pessimism I encounter, I’ve grown to deeply appreciate Romania. To counter the skepticism, here are ten reasons why I’ve come to love living in this country:

1. The Beauty of All Four Seasons

Having grown up on a tropical island, I've always craved seasonal changes. Romania offers four very distinct seasons, each with its own magic. From the snowy winters with icy temperatures as low as -40°C, to the balmy summers hitting 40°C, I get to experience everything nature has to offer. The crisp scent of spring blossoms, the fiery hues of autumn leaves, and the seaside parties of summer make Romania’s seasons a constant source of fascination.

2. Breathtaking Natural Landscapes

Romania’s natural beauty is unparalleled. The Carpathian Mountains, vast forests, and unspoiled nature reserves are just the beginning. It’s a country where spotting wild bears or wolves is not uncommon, and the mix of mountains, plains, and the Black Sea provides a variety of outdoor experiences. Romania’s natural splendor is something that has captivated me ever since I arrived.

3. Time-Honored Village Life

Just a short drive from the cities, Romania's countryside villages seem frozen in time. Here, you’ll find close-knit communities where everyone knows everyone, and people still farm, cook, and live as they did generations ago. Traditional crafts, music, and festivals are alive and well, and the warmth of the villagers is contagious. Visiting these villages feels like stepping into a different era, where life is simpler and slower.

4. Rich Historical Heritage

Romania is a treasure trove of history. Whether it’s medieval castles, Roman ruins, or hidden citadels, this country offers a wealth of cultural landmarks to explore. Many of these sites are beautifully preserved, allowing visitors to step back in time and soak in centuries of history. The layers of heritage woven into Romania's landscape are truly remarkable, and as a history lover, I relish the opportunity to explore it all.

5. Strong Cultural Traditions

Romanian culture is alive and vibrant, from the cities to the smallest villages. I love how deeply connected Romanians are to their traditions, whether it’s in the food, music, or their many religious festivals. The unique blend of Slavic, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences gives Romania’s culture a colorful richness. The cuisine, folk dances, and traditional celebrations here have become a beloved part of my life.

6. The Lively Capital: Bucharest

Bucharest, Romania's capital, offers a lively blend of modernity and tradition. Despite being a bustling metropolis, it maintains a charm that’s not overwhelming. The city is full of trendy restaurants, art-deco architecture, lush parks, and vibrant nightlife. It’s dynamic yet accessible, and I love how I can enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle while still feeling connected to nature.

7. A Healthy, Family-Friendly Environment

Romania’s family-oriented culture is one of its most underrated qualities. People here value healthy, balanced living, and I appreciate the community support in my residential area. You’ll often see parents out with their children, and I’ve found the services and infrastructure to be quite family-friendly. As a mom, it’s important to me that my children grow up in a place that values family and community, and Romania excels in that regard.

8. Welcoming to Foreigners

While Romanians may sometimes come off as awkward in their interactions with foreigners, they are far from unwelcoming. On the contrary, I’ve found most people here to be curious and respectful toward those from different cultures. Many Romanians speak multiple languages, which makes communication easy. Over the years, I’ve noticed Romania becoming more multicultural, and it’s heartening to see the growing diversity.

9. Easy Travel and Affordable Flights

As a nomad at heart, I appreciate how easy it is to travel from Romania. Whether I want to explore nearby gems like Greece, Croatia, or Bulgaria, or catch a long-haul flight to the Middle East or the U.S., Romania’s location makes travel accessible and affordable. The country’s strategic position in Europe means that I’m never far from new adventures.

10. Authentic Friendships and Relationships

Building friendships in Romania took time, but the effort was worth it. The connections I’ve made here are deep and genuine. Once you break through the initial barrier, Romanians are incredibly sincere and laid-back. The relationships I’ve formed here are some of the most authentic I’ve ever had, and they’ve enriched my experience of living in Romania immeasurably.

No country is perfect, and Romania has its share of challenges, from bureaucracy to infrastructure issues. But despite these, I’ve found a sense of belonging here that I cherish. Romania has become my home, and I’m proud to embrace its culture, history, and traditions as part of my family’s story.

Sarah the Digital GypSea

Romania, October 2019