Expat in Romania - Joseph Long (US): Romania has brought me good food and great people
We're inviting our readers to share their stories and tell the world what Romania means to them. Joseph (Joe) Long, an American who moved to Romania about eight months ago, has decided to join our campaign and fill in the questionnaire…
Irina Marica · Journalist
· Updated · 3 min read
We're inviting our readers to share their stories and tell the world what Romania means to them. Joseph (Joe) Long, an American who moved to Romania about eight months ago, has decided to join our campaign and fill in the questionnaire here. Below is his Romanian story.
Joe Long arrived in Romania in March this year to take over his new job as general manager for an aviation manufacturing company.
Although he found Romania a bit intimidating at first, mainly due to the heavy Bucharest traffic and the strange atmosphere created by the COVID-19 restrictions, he got to know the people and the local culture better in the months that followed. "Romania has brought me good food and great people. My job has been a fulfilling learning experience," he told Romania-insider.com.
Joe Long likes the architecture because it reminds him of Paris, the friendly people, and the Romanian food, with the mititei(more commonly known as mici- short sausages without casings that never miss from barbecues)being at the top of his list.
What is your name, and where are you from, originally?
Joseph (Joe) Long.
Originally from Youngstown, Ohio, US.
How long have you been in Romania, and what brought you here? What is your main activity here?
I've been in Romania for 8 months, work brought me here. I am a General Manager for an Aviation manufacturing company.
Please describe your first encounter with Romania.
My first encounter was when I arrived in March for my initial visit. I noticed the beautiful architecture and busy city. I was a bit overwhelmed by the traffic. However, the people were friendly and accommodating. The COVID restrictions with public mask requirements along with the curfew made it difficult to see the city and experience the culture.
What was your main challenge when arriving in Romania? How did you overcome it?
My main challenge is the traffic. I had a driver for the first week to take me back and forth to work. I started driving over the weekend then hit the road early Monday morning. I overcame the traffic by leaving early in the morning and being patient.
What has Romania brought to your life?
