Doha: A hidden gem in Eastern Europe, The Republic of Moldova lies between Romania and Ukraine and is opening its arms and warmly inviting visitors to enjoy its unspoiled countryside, secular forests, and tasty, organic food.
One of Moldova’s geographical and cultural dimension advantages is its situation in the middle and proximity of both Europe and Asia. For years it has been considered an untapped touristic destination, which means it is far from the madding crowds of tourists.
Thus, visitors are invited to enjoy their stay in a calm and quiet atmosphere. Moreover, Moldova has four seasons, which offer a wide range of activities, depending on the season. It also provides authentic experiences in rural, gastronomy, and nature as people explore the rising ecotourism trend. To better have an image of Moldova, any resident of Qatar can imagine that the size of Moldova is three times that of the State of Qatar and with a similar population size—3.55 million people. Chișinău, its capital, is a well-connected city, with direct flights to 21 countries and 42 cities.
Generally, Moldova is in proximity and connection within three hours by flight from all main European cities. Also, it houses some of the well-recognised international hotel branches, including Radisson Blue and Marriott Courtyard.
Tourism has always been an essential component of the Moldovan economy, with unique features to wow visitors from Qatar. Qatari citizens and residents can indulge in ecotourism, rural tourism, outdoor activities such as rock climbing, air sports, biking, kayaking or camping, and seasonal hunting and birdwatching. These can all be practiced in the string of green, unspoiled, and scenery nature reserves spread across the country, some of which have also been classified in the Unesco biosphere reserves list (Beleu Lake, Lower Prut) due to its unique ecosystem.
Meanwhile, the dense forests, refreshing lakes, and rivers allow visitors to relax in wooden houses, cottages, and specialised resorts. These natural settings offer the possibility of staying at health resorts for medical tourism purposes. For example, the balneological health resort “Codru,” located in the heart of the century-old Moldovan forests, conducts treatment of gastrointestinal, central, and peripheral nervous system, musculoskeletal, respiratory diseases, etc. Among other stations, some of them offer radon baths treatment and offer therapy for cardiac and locomotor diseases. One other particular specialty is dental medicine, where affordable and quality services such as implants are assured by the highly qualified and trained Moldovan dentists at a very attractive price.
Moldova also possesses the perfect conditions to grow some of the world’s best fruit. The rich black soil, abundant sunshine, a temperate climate, and a long summer season contribute to the ideal atmosphere. Moldova’s apples, table grapes, apricots, plums, cherries, and other fruits boast a vivid natural colour, enticing aromas, and balanced sweetness. The fruits of Moldova offer a distinctively delicious taste that are mainly grown organic and are exported to Qatar too.
Moreover, the visitors can tantalize their taste buds with organic and delicious food, some prepared and served straight away in the gardens or farms. In this sense, many restaurants, some even located in villages, welcome visitors worldwide to showcase the authentic tastes of fresh food.
A traditional dinner will be started with plăcinte, stuffed pastries, most popular to be ordered are with brânză or cow cheese. For the main course, try zeamă or traditional chicken broth soup, filled with vegetables, meat, and herbs. On the sides of all, one must indulge with mămăligă, which is boiled cornmeal mash and sour cream, served with grill and fresh organic juices.
For an audience interested in witnessing the history, traditions, and cultural aspects of Moldova, a string of museums in history, natural history, military history, as well as folk music festivals and ancient fortresses offer the unique chance to deepen the understanding of Moldova and its influences throughout the centuries. One of such influences is Arabic. Some of its traces can be found in the native language - Romanian language, history of Moldova, and some of its architecture. For queries about visa, travel conditions, and updated information about Moldova, the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova to the State of Qatar is particularly keen to offer all the information, advice, and other guidance needed.
