Precautions the key to Romania trips

Romania has been gradually emerging as a tourist destination in recent times, despite the fact that capital city Bucharest polarises opinion among locals and visitors alike.

But with the winter months almost over in the UK, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued a range of tips to anyone planning to head to the country in the near future.

The first thing to remember is that, as with most places in the current climate, there is an underlying threat of terrorism, although the chances of being caught up in an attack are very small.

In terms of crime, Britons are advised to be on guard in a similar way as they would in the UK as there is a risk of petty theft in large towns and being pickpocketed in crowded areas, particularly in Bucharest.

The FCO draws attention to the possibility of valuables such as passports being stolen from hotel rooms, while also noting that organised attacks, often including children, can occur.

"The most common method is of distraction whilst several people, often the children, attempt to snatch watches and jewellery from pockets or from around the neck and wrist," it advises.

Britons are also warned that there have been cases of credit or charge cards being 'cloned' after usage in some bars and restaurants, leading to their subsequent illegal use by the fraudsters.

Public transport in Bucharest is fairly cheap and extensive, although it is worth remembering that tourists are often overcharged when travelling in the popular yellow taxis.

Anyone hiring a car in Romania should remember that horse-drawn carts and livestock may be on the roads - especially at night - while vehicles must be equipped for winter conditions.

Moving on to health issues, there have been some confirmed outbreaks of avian influenza in the Danube Delta, Transylvania and Bucharest regions, although no human infections have been recorded.

The FCO offers the following advice: "As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked."

Travellers should also ensure that they have comprehensive medical and travel insurance in place before they head off to the country.

As long as Britons follow these guidelines, they should be able to enjoy a unique and hassle-free trip to Romania.