This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Chișinău.
Chisinau, the intriguing capitol of Moldova, is well worth visiting and a pretty good place to stay in a hostel. Though more travelers are making their way to Moldova, Chisinau still remains largely an adventurous place to visit. The city is not without its downsides, not to mention some big issues the country as a whole faces, but it is, in fact, a nice place to spend time. The city has a few parks, where you can observe the local kids displaying their affection oh so publicly. Or you can test out restaurants and markets for the best of the fine local wine for just cents a glass. Many Communist-era relics are still well maintained and give you a lot to take in.
For getting around, there are trolley buses and jitneys, though you can walk around most all of the core in good weather. Look out for open utility covers or other dangers on the sidewalks and streets. Stray animals are generally not dangerous, though they can be a nuisance.
Getting in via bus, there are quite a few stations and even more stops for buses out for exploring the countryside. The train station is a little way out of town, but its extremely well maintained and a good place to visit, just to see what the government can do when they put their mind to it.
Chisinau hostels very greatly in quality, but are mostly small, located in private houses or flats, and can be overcrowded in summer. Location isn't a big deal, as long as you're within walking distance of the center. Pretty much any neighborhood near the center is equally safe, though a few are more affluent and have mostly single-family houses and villas instead of Communist housing blocks.
Written by local enthusiast for Chișinău hostels
Carl
