Payless

Romanians are friendly and open and foreigners are usually made very welcome. Chatting with visitors is very common for Romanians and they will find a way to communicate with you even if they cannot speak your language.

* Older people particularly appreciate old-fashioned politeness. It is respectful to use Mrs. or Mr. when using the name of a person that you just meet.
* Handshaking is the most common form of greeting. When a Romanian man is introduced to a woman, he will probably kiss her hand, strictly avoiding her eyes.
* If one refuses what a host offers to eat or drink, this will often be taken as a polite refusal by guest who really means to say "yes." If you want to refuse the offer find a polite excuse and say it firmly or ask for a replacement.
* It is common to linger once the meal (luch or dinner) is over.
* When visiting someone at home bring a small gift. Most common gifts include flowers or chocolate (for women only), a bottle of wine or liquor. The number of flowers that one offers must always be odd. Other well-appreciate gifts include Western cosmetics (i.e. eau de toilette or after-shave) and clothing.
* All gifts should be wrapped, but many Romanians might not unwrap their gifts in your presence.
* In Romania as in many Latin countries life is lived at a more relaxed pace. Normal European courtesies should be followed on social occasions. Although casual dress is fine in most occasions, wearing a suit and tie, or the women's equivalent, is important at business meetings. Appointments are necessary and punctuality is expected.
* It is not considered impolite to ask a person's age, politics, income or religion, so don't take such questions amiss.