Tips for Fulbrighters

Flights from U.S.:
My flights were purchased as United Airlines flights but they actually were all run by Lufthansa. This reservation was okay because it had United on it. It is very strange because you have to use an American airline even when the others are cheaper. But, just buy it - no other choice. STA is very helpful and often can find cheaper flights even though it is a service specifically for students. They will might be able to help you some. And, they will be able to know if it is something that is okay (because of the code sharing) or not.

Cell Phones:
 I bought a cell phone here from Orange and got one from Vodafone from someone else. You will want orange up in Cluj, but vodafone is what most people have in Bucharest.  Lots of people where have both! It is really really cheap to get one - just ask for a partial plan - it is three months and then you can just do any additional time pre-paid. And, by doing it that way instead of it all pre-paid you get the phone basically for free. I can help you with that when you get here.  Then, you just go to the store to pay your bill (something like 4 euro a month or 34 lei for 500 min and 500 text messages).  Note: you will need your passport to get a regular or partial plan!!

Banking:
Yes, you do have to set up a bank account here. Banca Transilvania is good in Cluj. It is super easy to do - necessary because that is how they reimburse us for rent and utilities. But, we have to mail our utility bills to the Fulbright office to be reimbursed for them.  As with everything else, bring your passport to set up your account!  You don't need anything else.

Changing Money:
The banks are a great place to do this, but you will need to bring your passport.

Wear Contacts?
If you wear contacts, bring solution with you because it is $20 for a bottle here!!!!  I am not kidding.  It is completley insane!  If you do run out, you need to go to the eye glasses stores to get more - not the grocery stores or pharmacies.

Women....
If you need things like tampons, they only sell OB without applicators here.  So, if you want something else or have a favorite brand/kind, bring them with you. 

I am sure I will think of more handy tips later :)