What do you first do before going on a trip somewhere new? Sure, you Google. But you also ask your friend who’s been, or look up a local that can give insider tips. That’s where I come in. As a Bucharest native that’s returned after 12 years living abroad, I am aware of some of the dilemmas you might have when first visiting Romania’s capital. However, Bucharest’s urban renewal and cultural effervescence is growing at a rapid pace, and you’re probably at a loss of where to start. Perhaps you need help with logistics or navigating the often-chaotic streets of the city, insider tips for the hip and hidden sights to include in your travel feature, or suitable locations and characters for your travel show.

I’m constantly roaming the city so you don’t have to. I can also help with translating or voiceovers in Romanian or custom tours for the eclectic, alternative Bucharest few know. I built from scratch the first Google Trips guide for Bucharest, as well as a comprehensive guide for National Geographic. I’ve been writing monthly content and providing updates as a Lonely Planet Local and oversaw Bucharest’s In Your Pocket content as editor, while penning pieces on notable locals. I was a speaker for A City Made by People Bucharest, as well as one of the organizers for the inaugural Experience Bucharest blogger campaign in May 2017.