Bucharest
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Day 205, Bucharest: Oh, blistering barnacles! It’s 35.63°C today, feels like the sun is practicing its salsa on my porcelain cheeks. Few clouds in the sky, you say? More like an audience enjoying my slow-roast. Humidity at 32% – not enough to quench my thirst, but enough to make my beard frizzy. The wind is 4.63 m/s, just about strong enough to blow off my hat. If you need me, I’ll be impersonating a melting ice cream cone. Survival tip for gnomes: always keep your cool, even when your hat’s on fire! #GnomeLife #HotterThanGnomesInAnOven
Gnomean Empire: Bucharest Bound!
There’s a saying here in Romania, “Unde-i mulțumire, acolo-i bucurie“, which means “where there is gratitude, there is joy”. And boy, am I grateful for this journey!
Crossing the border from Voluntari into Bucharest, there was a noticeable shift in energy. Voluntari, with its quaint charm and laid-back lifestyle, contrasted sharply with the dynamic, bustling vibe of Bucharest. One particular observation that piqued my curiosity was the remarkable blend of old and new architecture in Bucharest. It was like watching history unfold right before my very eyes!
Among the maze of modern skyscrapers and shopping centers, there stood the majestic Palatul Parlamentului (Palace of the Parliament). In the heart of the city, I found this colossal edifice, the heaviest building in the world, standing as a testament to times gone by. It was an awe-inspiring sight, reminding me of the famous verse by Romanian poet, Mihai Eminescu, “Și oamenii se-ntreabă: Ce-i cu viața mea?/ De ce nu pot să scap de gândul că mă duc spre ea?” which translates to “And people ask themselves: What’s with my life?/ Why can’t I get rid of the thought that I’m heading towards it?”
In the 205 days that I’ve been on the road, I’ve traveled a staggering 6103.7 kilometers. From the quiet streets of Braniștea to the vibrant cityscape of Bucharest, and then to the suburban charm of Voluntari and back to Bucharest, each place has left its mark on this little gnome’s heart. But the journey doesn’t stop here, my friends. In the words of another local saying, “Drumul bun să-l calci“, which means “May you tread a good path”. Onwards we go, to the next adventure!
Stay tuned for more of my musings, jokes, and, of course, travel tales. Don’t forget, each step is a story, each mile a memory. La revedere, until next time, fellow wanderers!
Wandering Bucharest’s Streets
Gnome’s Eager Etchings
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Bucharest.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Ceausescu’s Crazy Concrete Jungle!
Secondly, George Enescu, one of Romania’s most beloved composers, is celebrated annually with the George Enescu Festival, “Festivalul George Enescu”. This event transforms Bucharest into a vibrant hub for classical music lovers. Enescu’s music, such as his Romanian Rhapsodies, still echo in the city’s concert halls, a testament to Romania’s rich cultural heritage. “Muzica lui Enescu este sufletul României.” (Enescu’s music is the soul of Romania.)
Bohemian Whispers, Parlamentului Pomp!
Bucharest, or “București”, as the locals call it, is a city that is a melting pot of stories, history and vibrant living. Its cultural scene is defined by its diversity, from the grandeur of the Palatul Parlamentului to the bohemian charm of Lipscani Street. Bucharest is also a city of contrasts: while walking down the streets, you can hear everything from lively music to hushed whispers of “Pace și liniște” (peace and quiet). Its history has left an indelible mark on the city, which can still be seen in its architecture and felt in the heart of its people. As locals say, “Nimic nu este imposibil” (Nothing is impossible), perfectly encapsulating the spirit of Bucharest.
Gnome’s Eye: Bucharest Wonders
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 