Moldova, officially known as the Republic of Moldova, has remained a hidden gem destination in Eastern Europe despite its thriving and award-winning wine scene
Manchester Airport has revealed new direct flights to one of Europe’s least explored countries, which has been dubbed a ‘hidden gem’. From December 17, FLYONE, Moldova’s leading airline, will commence direct flights to the capital city of Moldova, Chisinau.
This route links the North’s Moldovan community with their loved ones, while also offering thrilling travel prospects for UK holidaymakers. The flights are scheduled twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with return fares starting from just £19 per person one way.
Despite its flourishing and award-winning wine industry, stunning landscapes, including Old Orhei – a historical and archaeological complex – and the surrounding National Park, and a variety of cultural attractions, Moldova, officially the Republic of Moldova, has remained an undiscovered treasure in Eastern Europe. Chisinau itself is perfect for a city break, boasting museums, galleries, bars and restaurants, and it’s also renowned for its Soviet-era architecture.
Alternatively, travellers can venture into the surrounding countryside, scattered with traditional villages and beautiful landscapes. Chisinau is also situated in the heart of the Codru wine region, known for its white and sparkling wines.
The Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova, his excellency Rusian Bolbocean, has expressed his delight at the new direct flight between Chisinau and Manchester, stating: “The Embassy of the Republic of Moldova is pleased to welcome the launch of the direct flight between Chisinau and Manchester.
“This new connection is an important development for the Moldovan diaspora in the North West of England and enhances cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and the UK.”, reports the Manchester Evening News.
He further commented on the collaboration that led to this achievement: “This is the result of productive meetings with Manchester Airport earlier this year, and we are grateful for the strong partnership established. We encourage all airlines to explore similar opportunities to boost connectivity and look forward to the positive impact this will have on both business and tourism.”
Adding to the enthusiasm, Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, said: “We are proud to connect the North to the world through our route network of more than 200 destinations, more than any UK airport outside London. A key part of that is connecting people to friends and family in other countries.”
Turner also highlighted the cultural and familial benefits of the new route: “The North is home to lots of people from Moldova and we’re really pleased to be able to help them visit their homeland from an airport right on their doorstep. This new route also gives people from the North the opportunity to take the road less travelled and visit one of Europe’s last real hidden gems, with fantastic wine and beautiful scenery.”
The new Manchester-Chisinau direct route has received accolades from business magnates for its prospective “significant boost” to international commerce.
Dina Railean, Salford President of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, expressed her delight: “We are delighted to see the launch of a new Manchester-Chisinau direct route, a long-awaited achievement for the Moldovan community in the UK. As Chair of the Moldovan Diaspora Business Alliance, I have advocated for this connection, and we are thrilled to see it come to fruition. This route provides Moldovans with a direct link to their homeland, offering easier travel and more frequent visits to loved ones.”
“Additionally, as President of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, I recognise the significant boost this will provide to international trade, facilitating faster business travel and cargo transport for companies engaging with Moldova. For leisure travellers, Chisinau offers an undiscovered gem in Eastern Europe, now easily accessible from Manchester”.
Furthermore, Mircea Maleca, the General Director of FLYONE, remarked on the airline’s proactive approach: “The launch of this route is our response to numerous requests. We analyse travellers’ preferences and try to come up with solutions so that the diaspora, businesspeople, and those who want to visit somewhere new can easily fly to these cities.”
It’s crucial to note that while Moldova neighbours Ukraine, the UK Foreign Office hasn’t issued any travel warnings for the country, confirming it’s safe for visits. However, they do caution against all trips to Transnistria, a separatist region straddling Moldova and Ukraine, which the FCDO notes is “outside the control of the Moldovan government.”
