tabifolk talks with Cristina Căluianu about Accessible Romania

Romania is a country of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. But what about accessibility? In a recent episode of Tabifolk Talks, we sat down with Cristina Căluianu from Accessible Romania by Sano Touring to discuss how Romania is becoming a more inclusive destination for travelers with disabilities. From accessible transportation to barrier-free cultural experiences, Romania has a lot to offer!

Meet Cristina and Accessible Romania

Cristina founded Accessible Romania by Sano Touring to provide customized, fully accessible travel experiences for people with disabilities. Her team works tirelessly to ensure that visitors have a seamless and enjoyable experience, whether they are exploring Romania’s medieval castles, vibrant cities, or serene natural landscapes.

The agency was created in response to a clear gap in accessible travel services. Recognizing Romania’s potential, Cristina and her team started evaluating destinations, ensuring that accommodations, transport, and activities met high accessibility standards. Today, they offer a variety of tailored experiences, from city tours to wellness retreats.

Why Visit Romania?

If Romania isn’t already on your travel bucket list, here are some compelling reasons why it should be:

• Diverse Landscapes – From the Carpathian Mountains to the Black Sea coastline, Romania is a haven for nature lovers.
• Rich History & Culture – Home to medieval fortresses, stunning monasteries, and even Dracula’s Castle, Romania has a fascinating past.
• Accessible Tourism Growth – With initiatives like Accessible Romania, more attractions are becoming wheelchair-friendly and barrier-free.

Accessible Transportation in Romania

One of the biggest challenges for accessible travel in Romania has been transportation. Cristina’s team tackled this issue head-on by investing in an accessible van, named Crafty, which can accommodate up to two wheelchair users and their companions. This ensures that visitors can move around comfortably, whether exploring cities like Bucharest or heading to the countryside.

Highlights of Accessible Attractions

1. Bucharest: A Capital Full of History

As Romania’s capital, Bucharest is filled with historic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and accessible museums. Some must-see spots include:

• The Old Town – Though some areas have cobblestones, certain paths are accessible for wheelchair users.
• Village Museum – An open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian homes, many of which are wheelchair-friendly.
• Muzeul Național de Artă al României (National Art Museum of Romania) – Features accessible exhibitions and cultural treasures.

2. Transylvania: Castles & Medieval Towns

Transylvania is known for its stunning castles and picturesque medieval towns. While some historic sites pose accessibility challenges, Cristina’s team ensures that travelers know what to expect. Notable sites include:

• Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) – While the castle itself isn’t fully accessible, visitors can explore the courtyard and learn about its history.
• Peleș Castle – A breathtaking 19th-century castle with some accessible areas.
• Sibiu & Sighișoara – These medieval towns offer a mix of accessibility, with modern adaptations in certain areas.

3. Spa & Wellness Tourism

Romania is famous for its natural healing waters and spa resorts. Many of these spas are wheelchair-friendly, offering accessible treatments that focus on relaxation and medical rehabilitation. Cristina highlighted several options where guests can enjoy mineral baths, therapeutic treatments, and accessible wellness facilities.

4. Unique Cultural Experiences

• Painted Monasteries – Though not all are fully accessible, Cristina’s team can guide visitors to those with better accessibility.
• Merry Cemetery – A colorful and unique cemetery featuring humorous inscriptions about the lives of the deceased, with accessible paths for visitors.
• Traditional Romanian Cuisine – From hearty stews to sweet pastries, Romania offers a diverse culinary scene. Cristina recommends trying Papanasi, a delicious fried dough dessert with cheese and jam.

Challenges & Progress in Accessible Tourism

While Romania has made significant strides in accessibility, challenges remain. Public transport, historic sites, and rural areas still require improvements. However, Cristina remains optimistic, noting that awareness is growing, and more businesses are working toward inclusivity.

Plan Your Accessible Trip to Romania

If you’re considering Romania for your next adventure, Accessible Romania by Sano Touring can help design a trip that meets your needs. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, nature escapes, or wellness retreats, Cristina and her team ensure a comfortable and enriching experience.

Learn More & Plan Your Trip: AccessibleRomania.com

Romania is ready to welcome you – and with the right planning, your trip can be as smooth as it is unforgettable!