The new regulation, set to take effect 90 days after its approval, prohibits smoking in several key areas across the city. Among the locations where smoking will no longer be allowed are public transport stations, all public parks, and sports facilities, including sports fields. The ban covers both conventional cigarettes and electronic smoking devices, reflecting growing concerns over the health risks posed by vaping alongside traditional tobacco use.

Exceptions and Implementation

While the regulation is comprehensive, it does allow for certain exceptions. Smoking will be permitted at outdoor public events that have received official approval from authorities. However, event organisers are required to designate special smoking areas to accommodate smokers without exposing non-smokers to secondhand smoke.

The municipality will mark prohibited and permitted smoking zones throughout Cluj-Napoca to ensure clarity and compliance. The local police are responsible for enforcing the new rules and are authorised to issue fines ranging from RON 100 to 500 (approximately EUR 20–100) for violations.

Cluj-Napoca’s move aligns with a broader European trend of restricting smoking in public spaces, particularly to protect children and young people from the harmful effects of passive smoking. The city’s initiative comes at a time when smoking rates in Romania have been steadily declining, with current estimates placing the prevalence between 27.5% and 34% of the population.

By implementing this ban, Cluj-Napoca, one of the best Romanian cities for expats, aims to set a national example for public health and urban well-being, encouraging other Romanian cities to consider similar measures. The regulation not only addresses the immediate health risks associated with smoking but also signals a commitment to creating cleaner, safer, and more inclusive public spaces for all residents.

As the city prepares for the regulation to take effect, authorities are launching information campaigns to educate the public about the new rules and the benefits of smoke-free environments. Cluj-Napoca’s bold decision is expected to spark discussions across Romania about the future of public health policies and the importance of prioritising community well-being.

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1. Cluj-Napoca – Ranked ninth in Europe, Cluj is notable for its very high safety during daytime and at night, despite concerns about corruption and a moderate increase in crime over the past three years. Its vibrant cultural scene, robust IT sector, and large student population contribute to its dynamic atmosphere and sense of community safety.
2. Timisoara – Taking the 17th spot, Timisoara is another Romanian city that scores high on safety. Known for its historical buildings and public squares and being a cultural and educational hub, Timisoara offers residents and visitors a secure environment to explore and live in.
3. Brasov – Close behind Timisoara, ranked 18th, Brasov is renowned for its medieval architecture, the scenic beauty surrounding the Carpathian Mountains, and well-preserved historical sites. Its safety ranking further adds to its appeal as a tourist destination and residence place.
4. Bucharest – Romania’s capital city ranks 31st, outperforming several European capitals. Despite a high level of perceived corruption, Bucharest offers very high safety for walking alone during the day and high safety at night. As the largest city and the economic heart of Romania, Bucharest’s cultural diversity, historical landmarks, and nightlife make it attractive for many, with safety being a significant factor in its livability.
5. Iasi – Securing 50th place in the European safety ranking is a statement of the city’s dedication to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for its residents and visitors. As one of Romania’s major cities, Iasi is distinguished not only by its historical significance but also by its vibrant cultural life and role as a leading educational center, housing the oldest university in Romania.

These rankings indicate the efforts made by these cities to maintain and improve public safety, which not only enhances the quality of life for their inhabitants but also makes them attractive destinations for tourists. The focus on safety, rich cultural offerings, and historical significance positions these Romanian cities as favourable choices for living and travelling in Europe.

The ranking of the safest cities in Europe, with The Hague, Bern, and Munich leading the list, showcases a variety of factors that contribute to urban safety. These cities exemplify the benefits of comprehensive approaches to safety, including low crime rates, effective road safety measures, and investments in public infrastructure and transport. Ljubljana, Zagreb, and Eindhoven’s inclusion in the top 10 indicates the importance of city-wide strategies encompassing public safety, traffic management, and community engagement.

The factors considered in the ranking—crime rate, road accidents, and public safety in spaces—highlight urban safety’s multifaceted nature. Cities prioritizing these areas tend to create environments where residents and visitors feel secure. The emphasis on road infrastructure and strict traffic regulations, for example, reduces the likelihood of accidents and enhances the overall quality of life by promoting more sustainable and accessible modes of transportation.

Conversely, the ranking of Marseille as the most miniature safe city in Europe, followed by Coventry and Birmingham, points to the challenges some cities face in addressing crime, road safety, and public security. These rankings provoke essential discussions about urban policy, investment priorities, and the need for holistic safety strategies that address both immediate concerns and longer-term structural issues.

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Players like Simona Halep, Anett Kontaveit, Emma Raducanu, Jil Teichmann, Ajla Tomljanovic, Marta Kostyuk, Irina Begu and Anheilina Kalinina play at the tournament.

The most awaited duels will be between the favorite from the first round, Simona Halep (19 WTA) who plays versus Gabriela Rousse (83 WTA), while the second match is between Irina Begu (56 WTA) and Irina Barra (136 WTA).

Transilvanya Open tournament restrictions

Unfortunately, this year the tournament will take place without spectators according to the new rules proposed by the authorities, which were sent for approval to the Romanian Government.

It is very sad that this decision was taken, to ban the access of spectators, but anything should be done for public health. I am glad to be in Cluj again, to play this tournament. It will not be easy, but I am very happy that I am healthy and fit to play.

Simona Halep on restrictions at Transylvania Open

WTA 250 Transylvania Open Tournament Prizes

Round 1: $ 2675, 1 WTA point
Round 2: $ 3675, 30 WTA points
Quarters: $ 5,800, 60 WTA points
Semifinals: $ 10,100, 110 WTA points
Finalist: $ 16,398, 180 WTA points
Champion: $ 29,200, 280 WTA points

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Flydubai already operates double daily service between Dubai International (DXB) and Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP). By expanding its operations to Cluj, Transylvania, Flydubai will service Romanian market with 16 flights in total per week.

We first started operating to Bucharest with four flights a week in 2012. Since then, Flydubai has more than tripled its operations to the market as demand has grown for commercial and cargo traffic between Romania and the UAE. We are excited to offer more options for convenient direct airlinks to the market with the start of our flights to Cluj-Napoca and we look forward to further stimulating travel and trade flows in both directions.

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai

This can also be an opportunity for the UAE travel-lovers to visit Transylvania, one of the most famous regions in Europe. Castles, picturesque landscapes, rural life, Dracula’s legend and many more can attract tens of thousands of tourists from the UAE to Romania each year.

Return Business Class fares start from DXB to CLJ are AED 8,000 and Economy Class fares are AED 1,100.

Return Business Class fares start from CLJ to DXB are EUR 1,900 and Economy Class fares are EUR 170.

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Situated in Transylvania, Romania, both Sibiu and Cluj are two of the most beautiful cities to visit throughout the year. On top of that, both were nominated by reputable foreign publications for having among the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world.

European Best Destinations placed Cluj-Napoca Christmas Market on the 8th in a ranking of the European Christmas Markets for this year: “You are set to discover a city that combines the medieval charm of old buildings, stone paved piazzas and narrow little streets with the effervescence of a modern academic, economic and business hub. Old and new, tranquility and dynamism – they come together harmoniously in ClujNapoca, so that each and every one that visits it eventually falls in love with the city.”

In the same time, Sibiu Christmas Market was dedicated an article in New York Times: “In the cobbled old town of Sibiu, an ancient Transylvanian city in the heart of Romania, a small Christmas market is in full swing, with the sweet scent of mulled wine filling the air and a tall spruce, a tiny ice rink and children’s attractions spreading the holiday spirit. While Germany’s Christmas markets — and its spinoffs across Europe — are favorite destinations among travelers, a newer, less well-known market has helped shine a light on this Romanian city, where a small German-speaking community has made its mark since the Middle Ages.“

Besides these two Christmas Markets, we also recommend our readers to visit Bucharest Christmas Market, which this year has succeeded in telling a beautiful story to all its visitors.

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