Expat In Romania

The price was too good to be true. Organic Bresaola for 10 lei/100grams (about $3). It was imported from Italy and based on the number of ingredients (beef, salt) the claim seemed legit. The best by date was listed as the day after, but we planned on eating it that evening, so that would take care of that. When I opened the package I immediately recognized the smell of ammonia. Maybe it was something else too, but in any case, it wasn't the smell of meat gone bad and that was somewhat more disturbing. Because I had to work and do other things the next couple of days, I wasn't able to return it. I wondered whether they were still selling it or if they were using the packages as chloroform rags now. On the third day I went after work and looked around until I found somebody. I stumbled upon a middle aged lady at the dairy section, updating prices. "Excuse me, I'm looking for the deli department manager." "We don't have any managers working in the even...

This is a topic I've discussed enthusiastically in my social life but I've yet to write about it. Most likely because it sits deceptively under that part of life we classify as "mundane". For hundreds of years farmers have brought in their fresh produce to various markets in nearby cities and towns. Most cities in Romania have one, or more, Piata agro-alimentare . They were there before supermarkets ever existed. Years ago, they were out in the open, but nowadays they are mostly found in large warehouse-type buildings with zero amenities other than the stalls on which the produce is displayed. Four things you will notice at the Piata : 1. The produce is not usually shiny, but that's because it's not been waxed. 2. It's not picture-perfect, but that's because mother-nature isn't a photographer. 3. Prices are low because you're not paying any third parties for shipping. 4. The seasons are relevant (ie. no cherries in Fall/Winter/Spring). It...