Today the people have changed their dress to match that of any other European country. Boots are still common as are other western-styled clothing, but the decoration is gone as patterns and styles are similar to that found elsewhere in Europe. Women wear pants for much of the year, but skirts are popular in the warm summer months, while it is rare for men to wear shorts, even during the summer. As a visitor to Moldova you are welcome to wear nearly anything, but in business and religious settings dress on the more conservative side. Also be aware that nakedness and women going topless is restricted in most locations, although in night clubs and discos it may seem like the women are wearing nothing at all... and at some dance clubs that may be accurate. If in doubt, follow the example of the locals or ask.
Arts, Entertainment, & Sports
As a country that struggles financially and has a strong focus on family, it seems most of Moldova's arts and entertainment scene is somewhat muted. There is little money to spend on art and entertainment as free time is generally spent with close family and friends around a dining table.
In addition to this, under Soviet rule most entertainment was in the Russian language and was censored by the government, limiting what was available in the form of entertainment. Only since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 has there been any development of Moldovan language music, movies, or even literature.
Also in 1991 came the introduction of foreign entertainment, such as music and movies, essentially dominating the market and not allowing many local movies or music to thrive. For many people, going to a movie or concert is simply not a part of their culture, although this is slowly changing.
Of the entertainment options, sports seem to be the most popular as anyone can play in their spare time, especially when there is little required equipment to buy. Soccer (football) is the most popular sport in the country today, but the national sport is a form of wrestling called trânta. Rugby and tennis are also popular, but much less common.
Chess is also a common form of entertainment and is taken so serious by some, especially the ethnic Russians, that it is considered a sport.
Moldova's Top Arts, Entertainment, & Sports Options:
-There is little artistic entertainment beyond Chisinau, but the capital offers the best of the country
-The best soccer (football) team is the Tiraspol team, Sheriff, so head there for a game
Learn More about Moldova's Arts, Entertainment, & Sports:
-Listen to "O-Zone," a pop band from Chisinau, famous for their 2003 hit "Dragostea din tei" (Buy Now)
-Read Yevgeny Onegin by Alexander Pushkin; it is loosely based on Pushkin's time in Chisinau (Buy Now)
-Read Playing the Moldovan at Tennis by Tony Hawks; it goes into the sports scene and the culture of Moldova (Buy Now)