People and Culture

The official language is Romanian. Romania is a hierarchical society where age and position are respected.

. Older people are viewed as wise since they have earned life experience. . The family is the foundation of the social structure and forms the basis of stability for most people. Romanians are formal and reserved with a strong need for privacy. Initial greetings are formal and reserved: a handshake, direct eye contact, and the appropriate greeting for the time of day. People are addressed by their honorific title ("Domnul" for Mr. and "Doamna" for Mrs.) and their surname. If you are invited to a Romanian's home, bring flowers, chocolates, or imported liquor to the hosts. Romanians prefer to do business with people who are down-to-earth and do not brag about their accomplishments or financial achievements.