Exploring Sibiu in Romania.

Sibiu might be your new favourite secret if you ever find yourself wanting a European trip that feels like a fairy tale, but without the thronging crowds that swarm the usual suspects. Well, it feels like you have found something really unique, even if it is not exceptionally secret. Sibiu is a city that succeeds in being lovely without too much work; yes, it is the place everyone associates with vampires, even if locals gently sigh whenever you bring it up, tucked away in Transylvania.

The architecture is the initial thing that catches your attention. Pastel structures abound in the Upper Town, as if painted on a pleasant spring day. The houses are known for having "eyes" on their roofs, which are actually attic vents, but they look like they are judging you for being so excited to be a tourist. Perhaps it is just me. Either way, walking through the Large Square and Small Square feels like entering a medieval movie set but with better coffee.

Talking about coffee, Sibiu has more than enough cafes to make you wonder if you are there to see the sights or stay caffeinated. Sipping a cappuccino while watching residents stroll their dogs with a level of discipline I can only aspire to has a particular charm. Though vibrant, the cafés are peaceful; they are neither noisy nor disorderly. Until you remember you have commitments elsewhere, the ideal mix leads you to consider staying permanently.

Sibiu has museums for every mood, for those who value culture and wish to demonstrate the educational value of their visit to their buddies. The Brukenthal National Museum has a fantastic art collection that will make you seem sophisticated even if you only get half of what you see. Then there is the open-air ASTRA Museum, a large village museum that shows traditional Romanian life. One may easily spend hours meandering among old wooden houses, thinking deeply, such as, "I would totally live in one of these, at least until winter."

Still another reason to stay in Sibiu is the food. Since centuries of cold winters have that effect on a food, classic Romanian dishes are usually heavy. Anticipate big amounts of soups, stews, grilled meats, and sweets that will cause you to forget every diet you ever promised yourself. Papanasi is a fried doughnut-like treat with sour cream and jam. It tastes much better than it sounds, and yes, you ought to get two.

The city can be walked all over. Though you'll probably stop often to capture every perspective, you can pass from Upper Town to Lower Town in minutes. Then there is the Bridge of Lies, which is said to creak when someone tells a fib. I crossed it repeatedly, and it remained completely quiet, which I take as a positive indicator.

Sibiu is the kind of town where time slows down just enough for you to appreciate it without feeling guilty. It is welcoming, laid-back, and lovely. And should you leave without at least considering living there, you could be the first.