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@Map of the Continent

Mr X surveyed the map of the Continent on the wall. "So—which one is Romania?" he asked.
Fino looked superior. "Look to the east of the map. That pale yellow area there is the Black Sea. Now, do you see that country in dark green immediately to the left? That's Romania. Think of it as being shaped like a fish, with its tail in the Black Sea and its head pointing westwards."

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@Chalet, Maramureş Mountains, Pop Ivan Massif

The pets were excited to begin their tour of Maramureş. Adriana explained that, with its picturesque landscapes and traditional wooden villages, the county offered a unique glimpse into Romania's rich cultural heritage. The region's stunning natural beauty, she said, including the renowned Maramureş Mountains, created an enchanting atmosphere for travellers seeking an authentic and immersive experience." She pointed out the unique wooden chalets as their coach passed them.

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@Meadow, Maramureş

"Ah! Maramureş!" Adriana described a landscape dotted with haystacks and scythe marks. Storks would walk through freshly cut hay meadows looking for insects. "There are about one hundred wooden churches in Maramures, of which eight are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These wooden structures are made without nails and have high roofs and a very tall narrow steeple stretching towards the sky."

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@Harestail Cotton Grass

"Those living in Maramureş are a very traditional populace living in harmony with nature, leading a rustic lifestyle unchanged in centuries. They live in wooden houses built without nails or screws. They do basket-making, spin wool, weave carpets, raise livestock, keep bees for honey, and grow organic crops in organic fields."

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@Wild Plum

Adriana continued: "They grow plum trees to make Țuică and apple trees to make horinca, both traditional fruit liqueurs. They have almost no need of cash, because the land gives them all that they need. Their home-made fruit liqueurs are used sometimes as currency." Adriana explained that plum production in Romania had been going on for hundreds of years, and that Romania was the second largest producer of plums in Europe and the third largest in the world. She added that plums can be eaten fresh, dried to make prunes, used in jams, or fermented into wine and distilled into brandy. Plum preserves are cooked over an open fire and known as silvoița or magiun de prune.

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@Autumn Foliage by Stream

"It sounds idyllic!" said Lunaray.
"It is," confirmed Adriana, "but it's very hard work, and the human young don't like it, and leave the area to work in paid employment. Many leave to go and work in England, for example."

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@Pietrele Doamnei, Carpathian Mountains

The coach had now entered the county of Suceava. Adriana told them that the Pietrele Doamnei, or 'Lady’s Rocks’ is within a conservation area of national interest. National parks are areas of particular geographical interest or outstanding natural beauty. They preserve nature and protect many rare species of animals and plants.

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@Scenic Snowscape

In addition to this, Adriana informed them, they play a significant role in preserving traditional crafts, local customs and historical settlements. Activities you can enjoy include climbing strange rock formations, studying endangered flora, bird-watching, wandering in the countryside, trying your hand at traditional crafts.

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@Snowy Mountain Hike

"There are many legends associated with this area," said Adriana. "For instance, it is said that a long time ago, so long ago that it’s lost in the mists of time, the land was ruled by a very wealthy king. He was so rich that his wealth and goods could not fit into his castle. Those possessions were craved by the devil, who roamed those lands, so the king decided to safeguard his goods. He sent his subjects to find an appropriate place. When the devil followed, a shower of heavy rocks fell on him."

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@Romanian national flag

"Many of you have asked what the colours on our national flag symbolise," said Adriana. "I should first explain that our flag has gone through many changes over time, reflecting political and historical context. Personally I think the blue signifies liberty, the yellow represents our fertile land and golden grains, and the red stands for courage and sacrifice."

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@Friendly sparrow

It now being lunchtime, the pets were taken to a cheerful traditional pub where they were served wholesome bar meals outside on wooden benches. Some friendly sparrows joined them for their meal!

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@Illuminated Bridge

Fortunately the weather cleared. There were cheerful decorations around the city and the pets particularly liked the illuminated bridge. They spent some time taking selfies in groups.

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@Storm A-Brewing

They were now approaching Suceava and Adriana hoped they would reach their accommodation before the rain started.