Cynthia, a woman from Madagascar who has lived in Moldova for six years and describes herself as the “Moldovan from Madagascar,” has shared five things tourists should know before visiting the country.
Drawing on her experience of living in Moldova and getting to know its people and culture, Cynthia offered advice to foreign visitors on how to make the most of their stay.
Her first and most important rule is simple: never refuse food.
“Moldovans are extremely generous when it comes to food. If they invite you to eat, just eat,” she said.
Cynthia pointed to the Moldovan tradition of masa mare, or the “big table,” where family and guests gather around abundant meals during important celebrations and events. Refusing food offered by a host may be taken personally, she explained.
Her second recommendation is to learn a few words in Romanian. Tourists do not need to become fluent, but knowing basic expressions such as bună ziua (“hello”), mulțumesc (“thank you”) and la revedere (“goodbye”) can go a long way.
“Even the tiniest effort goes a long way,” Cynthia said.
She also advised tourists not to mistake Moldovans’ initial reserve for unfriendliness. People may appear somewhat cold when meeting someone for the first time, but once they open up, they can be extremely warm and welcoming.
The fourth rule is to be polite — greet people, say thank you, show respect and avoid acting as though you are entitled to anything.
Finally, Cynthia urged visitors to stay humble and curious. Rather than constantly comparing Moldova with their home countries, tourists should ask questions, listen to locals and take the opportunity to discover the country’s culture.
“Don’t judge. You listen and you do not judge,” she said.
After six years in Moldova, the woman from Madagascar has one final piece of advice for anyone planning a visit: come with an open mind — and if a Moldovan bunica offers you food, just say da, meaning “yes.”