Experience in Chisinau, Moldova by Alla

What is it like to live in Chisinau? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Chisinau is the biggest town of the Republic of Moldova. Chisinau is also called "The city of white stone", which comes from the abundance of light-coloured buildings, being constructed with white limestone rock. Having lived here for about 10 years I can say that this city has become my home now. In general, it's a safe place to live in. About recommending it or not... it also depends on what kind of person you are, but we are a friendly nation so anyone who decides to visit or live here: you more than welcome!

What is the student lifestyle like in Chisinau?

It also depends on what kind of person is the student. For example, the first two years at the university (State University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Nicolae Testemiţanu”) I never went out or did other things for fun and to enjoy... just studying. Of course then the things changed and I started to live the real student life. So, the same as in every other country, students are studying and having fun. The point is that if you are a smart student you can manage them both (which in fact is recommended). Therefore, you are free to plan you time as you want, especially your free time with friends and colleagues, because there are a lot of places where you can go in Chisinau. I even remember, our Anatomy teacher always used to ask on Monday if we went out at night clubs, because as he said, it was absolutely necessary for getting rid of all negative energies and for a good functioning of the studying process... and just now, after 10 years I understand the truth of his words - he was absolutely right!

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How much does it cost to live in Chisinau?

Ohh... again, tell me what kind of person you are and I'll tell you how much do you need. Well, we always need more and more but there is place for different lifestyles; cheaper and more expensive, depending of course on your budget. But in fact, you can find and accommodation from 80 euro/per moth for a single room in a flat with 3 rooms. Of course you can live alone in 1 room apartment but that will cost you at least 150 euro. If we talk about money for living, clothes, food, etc., it also depends on how much you have and how much you are used to spend, but you can hardly live here with 200 euro which is about 4000 Moldovan leu.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Chisinau? Is there any advice you can give?

No, it is not. Of course if you have some strict requirements for accommodation it can take a while but it also depend on the period you start looking for accommodation. For example in August, close to September, all students arrive to Chisinau and therefore, that can be more expensive and also more difficult. My advice? If you know what you need, then it should not be a problem, but never hurry up, you can find some good opportunities, and not so expensive, that will fit your needs.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Like other countries, we have our national food and dishes. The most known is "Mamaliga", a porridge made out of yellow corn flour, which can also include milk and butter, and served with sheep cheese and some kind of pork steak/tocana. We also have "Sarmale", which is a meal that is traditionally eaten on Christmas Eve. Pork, rice and vegetables are rolled in cabbage leaves to make plump little parcels. Food in general is not too spicy and tastes very good. Of course, it depends on the person preferences, but it is never bad to try something new when it is recommended. In Moldova, people are used to this kind of food which sometimes is said to be "too heavy" for foreign people. But nothing will happen to you if you try these delicious dishes with a glass of good Moldovan wine. Of course, there are a lot of other dishes, but you just need to try them. Bon appétit, my friends!

What places would you recommend visiting in Chisinau?

There are a lot of places to visit in Chisinau and also around the city. So, first of all you should see Stephen the Great Monument and Stefan cel Mare Park, Victory Memorial and Eternal Flame, Dendrarium Park, Milestii Mici and Cricova - biggest wine factories, Jewish Cemetery, Botanical Garden of the Academy of Sciences of Moldova, Triumphal Arch, National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History and so on... Besides, Moldova is known by its churches and other historical places - just come and enjoy them.

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Is it good to eat out in Chisinau? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, of course! As I said before, we have a lot of places for going out and you always can find one of your taste, starting with national food and ending with different restaurants specialised in food from all over the world. The most known are Pegas Restaurant, Creme de la Creme - a french place, Tucano Coffee - a house of coffee, La Taifas Restaurant - with Moldovan national food, and so on.

Is the nightlife good in Chisinau? Where is good to go?

It is, and it's not just me who is saying that, but people who have visited Chisinau. You can find places many places... There are Cocos Prive, FLAMINGO KARAOKE & TERRACE, Studio, City Club, Famous Club and others. I guarantee you there's a lot of fun out there. Tested and recommended by people from abroad.

What advice would you give future students heading to Chisinau?

I love my country and I've always been open to find out more, so the same advice for you. Just come and see it for yourself, feel the heartbeat of Moldova. Welcome everybody!