The documentary series Flavours of Moldova began filming with a major challenge when a broken stone road nearly forced British journalist and filmmaker Charlie Ottley, the project’s director and protagonist, to turn back. The unlucky start set the tone for further obstacles throughout production.
Speaking on RLIVE TV’s Consens National, Nicolae Olarasu from the National Association for Inbound and Domestic Tourism said the incident was intentional. According to him, the filmmakers wanted to capture Moldova’s unpredictability and diversity.
“On the first day, after crossing the northern border with Romania on the way to Fetești, the map led us onto a gravel road. Initially, Charlie Ottley said it was too dangerous to ride on a motorcycle, but he didn’t give up. He continued, and the sequence remained in the film because of its authenticity and the charm of our picturesque villages. Filming lasted longer than planned due to weather conditions. But also because of the warm hospitality of our hosts, who offered him drinks, which required extra breaks to avoid issues with traffic police,” Olarasu recalled.
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Irina Tolstousov, Deputy Director at the Investment Agency of Moldova, emphasized the importance of positive tourist experiences in attracting visitors. “We aim to tell Moldova’s story and promote its tourism potential through visitors’ impressions and online content. For many, we are still an unknown country — even exotic. It makes us intriguing and worth discovering. Sometimes we need validation from abroad to feel proud at home,” she said.
Flavours of the Republic of Moldova will premiere on Netflix on September 24 as part of the final season of Flavours of Romania. The production combines spectacular visuals, authentic stories, and cultural moments, showcasing not only Moldovan wines and traditional cuisine but also scenic landscapes, historic wineries, and local communities preserving cultural traditions and values.