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Romania lies In the heart of Eastern Europe, surrounded by Hungary to the west, Bulgaria to the south, with the Black Sea lapping at its eastern shore.

Romania has become a must-see destination for Western tourists drawn to the country's beach resorts, mysterious mountains and monasteries and, of course, it's historic association with Count Dracula.

Today, there's lots more to Romania than mystery and history, as it shakes off its more recent association with communism to enjoy an economic boom as one of the newest members of the EU.

A blend of modern hi-rises and medieval cobblestone streets, Romania remains overall heady mix of East and West, light and shadow, mountains and seashore.

Bucharest is where many first-time tourists set foot in Romania. The capital city has undergone a transformation of late into a modern metropolis and best typifies the changes the country has been through over recent years.

Although still lacking in some of the more glitzy attractions visitors come to expect of European capitals, Bucharest is great for just walking around to soak in the country's rich history, and to be startled by contrasts in architectural styles at every turn from romanesque and medieval to modern steel-and-glass.

While here, don't miss Bucharest's own Arch de Triomphe (from which it has derived its traditional nickname "Little Paris") as well as a walk around Revolution Square with its historic association with Nicolae Ceausescu's final moments in power as he fled from crowds gathered there on on December 21, 1989 — marking the end of communist-ruled Romania. For further trips back in time also ramble around the Old Historic Center which today has become an upscale neighborhood filled with art galleries, antique shops and trendy cafes.

Of course, while in Bucharest you'll also want to book a day tour to see what has come to symbolize all things Romanian - Transylvania. At the center of the region is the popular walled city of Brasov with its mysterious medieval look and feel and today a popular jumping-off point for special trips to "Dracula's Castle" in Bran, legendary home to the world's most famous vampire.

More about Romania travel & tourism around the Web:

Romania Tourism - The official site, with special guides devoted to regions, cities and major attractions, with helpful trip planner, hotel guide, photo gallery.

About Romania - A complete country directory including maps, photos, travel facts & information, recommended destinations.

Romania Travel | Lonely Planet World Guide - Fast facts, feature attractions, when to go, how to get there plus maps, typical travel costs, photo galleries, and special looks at Bucharest, Transylvania and more.

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