Romania

7/8/7

The sheer opulence and grandoise vision of it all. Over a day after leaving Romania, and now being able to take in the natural splendour of the Caucaus Mountains, I am still struck by the stunning beauty of Ceausescu's Palace.

Built as his communist regime, as well as the economy of the country disintegrated around him, it is truly a testament to his meglamania. It is the second largest building in the world behind the Pentagon, and at a cost of a lazy $10B, easily the most spectacular large building.

Not a single room or detail was overlooked. From the marble staircases to the 90 foot high ceilings, this building truly stands in a class of its own.

Romania is an amazing country to visit. And thanks to my gracious hosts, Daniel and Nicki, I was able to experience large swathes of it in my short time there.

Hiking in the Carpathians brought back memories of the Blue Mountains, and the snow capped peaks gave them their own distinct character. 12th century Citadels and Dracula's Castle gave me a feeling of living in the middle ages.

But if there is one enduring image that will stay with me from my time in Romania, it will no doubt be Ceausescu's Palace.