In December 1989 Romania was reborn as a free nation. Now this multifaceted country is welcoming tourists to enjoy a wonderfully varied heritage of traditional culture, scenic splendors and leisure opportunities. A resurgence of endeavor and enthusiasm is re-invigorating the country's tourist facilities to create a unique holiday destination.

There's a wealth of things to do and see in Romania with an intensive range of activities and places to visit. You can ski at traditional or purpose-built mountain resorts or laze in the hot sun on the Black Sea beaches comparable to those on the Mediterranean. You can hike through unspoilt landscapes, where rivers run clear, or take a boat in the 5,640 sq km (2,200 sq miles) water wilderness on the Danube Delta, of which 4,340 sq km (1,695 sq miles) in Romania to watch pelicans and other rare birds among floating reed islands. Or you can enjoy the architecture, museums and galleries of the cities.

The very name 'Romania' reminds us that ancient Rome exercised a decisive influence on this country and monuments of that era remain. There are feudal fortresses, Byzantine "painted" monasteries and decorated village houses to be admired, while "Dracula's" castle is only one among many other fascinating castles and palaces.

You can watch folk festivals in Transylvania that are genuine expressions of local culture, not merely staged for visitors. When you buy local crafts- like woodcarvings or ceramics you are buying things made to give pleasure in their use, not just throwaway souvenirs. One of many extraordinary aspects of this country is its vibrant rural culture, which for decades the outside world heard little about. Not that Romania's heritage is merely one of folk art! Bucharest used to be called the "Little Paris", and with good reason!

Today first class opera and concerts, permanent art exhibitions, like that of the sculptor Brancusi, fine Museums and galleries are all symptomatic of the new Romania's sophisticated artistic sensibilities.

Better still this is all backed up by the comfort of a widening range of hotels and restaurants, good internal communications by air, train and bus, and surprisingly low prices. Even going to the opera is remarkable value; and as for local delicacies and Romanian wines! Romania is on the move. Come and see for yourself.