One tourist shared what it was like inside Europe’s poorest country, which is a place where very few Brits have ever considered visiting. However, he recommends that certain travellers visit it for one specific reason. Europe is home to 50 countries and many of them are popular holiday destinations for Brits, with stand-out examples including Spain, Portugal and Italy. But there is one that goes largely overlooked.
The poorest country in Europe, based on a number of metrics, is Moldova. Some people from the UK might not even be able to find this small country on a map of the continent, much less consider visiting it. But TikTok user and avid world traveller Exploring with Harry has explained why Moldova is worthy of a visit with one specific reason that stood out to him. Moldova, he says, is home to fascinating Soviet history. Moldova is a former Soviet Republic and declared independence after the collapse of the USSR in 1991. Since then, there have been tensions between pro-Russian and pro-Western attitudes in the small country.
Moldova is wedged between Ukraine and Romania and is similar in size to countries like Albania, Denmark, and Scotland. You can fly directly from the UK to Moldova, taking a flight from London Luton Airport to Chișinău International Airport in the capital.
According to tourist Harry, Moldova’s highlight is the Soviet history but a number of things stood out to him. Describing how safe he felt in Moldova in the clip, he says: “After spending a few days in the capital city of Moldova, I had no problems whatsoever.”
He continued: “Moldova is actually one of the favourite places I’ve visited. If you’re into history, especially a Soviet Communist history, this has got to be a place you visit.”
He also revealed that his trip to Moldova was “extremely affordable” in terms of food, drink, transport, and accommodation. In fact, he referred to it as “the cheapest” place he has ever visited.
He also described the locals as “friendly enough” but pointed out that he saw a bit of homelessness when he was in the country that might make some visitors feel “uncomfortable”. He went on to explain that he felt like he was truly visiting somewhere new, not just a tourist hot spot.
Although Moldova is not a popular holiday destination, there are some things for visitors to do there. Among the top attractions are the underground Cricova Winery, Dendrariu Park, Bendery Fortress, and Catedrala Nasterea Domnului.
According to the UK Foreign Office, all travel to one particular part of Moldova, known as Transnistria, is not advised. “There is widespread military activity in Ukraine, including close to some Moldovan borders,” the FCDO says. “Transnistria is outside the control of the Moldovan government.
“FCDO’s ability to offer support is extremely limited and will be more limited if there is military action on or near the Moldova-Ukraine border.”
Transnistra is a breakaway state but is recocnised internationaly as part of Moldova. The long strip of land is located in the east of the country. However, this is far away form the country’s capital, Chisinau.