Bună ziua, my traveling companions! It’s your favorite globetrotting gnome, Oliver, here to regale you with tales of my most recent adventure. I’ve just completed a 20.5km journey from Dubăsari to Susleni, right here in the heart of beautiful Moldova.

As I made my way through the rolling countryside, I was struck by the ornate wells that dotted the landscape. Ah, you might think that a well is just a well, but not so in Moldova! Here, they are intricately carved and painted, giving a splash of color and a touch of artistry to the Moldovan rural landscape. They say “Apa este viața”, which translates to “Water is life”. A simple truth, yet so beautifully expressed in these vibrant wells.

In my 224 days on the road, hopping from Criuleni to Dubăsari, and now Susleni, traveling a whopping 6607.1 kilometers on foot, I’ve seen many things, but these wells were truly a sight to behold. Isn’t it amazing how the simplest things can become the most extraordinary when viewed through the lens of a different culture?

“De ce să te grăbești? Viața este doar o clipă!” A local told me. It means “Why hurry? Life is but a moment!” It’s a sentiment that resonates with me on this slow-paced journey.

And now, a little verse from a traditional Moldovan folk song to sign off: “În codru verde, pe pietricică, Stă scumpă mamă cu mustăcioară…” It speaks of a mother standing on a little rock in the green forest, a testament to the beauty and simplicity of rural life in Moldova.

Until next time, my friends, don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you, no matter where your journey takes you. La revedere!

Greetings from Susleni, a fantastic corner of the world tucked away in Moldova! This place is a cultural goldmine, starting with its traditional handicrafts. These are not just any handicrafts, they’re made with a technique passed down through generations. It’s the art of weaving dreams into reality. The locals say, “Împletim vise în realitate” which translates to “We weave dreams into reality”. How captivating is that?

The second puzzle piece that makes Susleni fascinating is the Music and Poetry Festival. This annual event is an incredible mix of vibrant notes and soul-stirring verses. It’s a tribute to the Moldovan composer Ștefan Neaga and the poet Grigore Vieru. To quote Vieru, “Poezia e un lucru simplu și profund în același timp.” meaning “Poetry is a thing both simple and profound at the same time.”

So, if you’re looking for a city that’s rich with culture, history, and heart, Susleni is the place to be!