I’d like to comment that there is typically no “serious” inspections at the border. The Fontiera guys do their job by asking for ID and a few questions. I am a little suprised he bothered to check your bags, but as you see with the alcohol anectode… the border guards aren’t holding to hard and fast rules. Just civil basics.

The chocolate bit was hilarious. Frankly, even though I knew what was going on, I would have done exactly the same thing as you… only on purpose. It sends the message to stop toying with your stuff.

Finally, let me assure you that all those personnel speak English. At any time you have an exchange with Frontiera on a border, feel free to speak for yourself instead of letting Dan handle it (though he appears to have done fine in this instance).

Have a GREAT time. Get out of Bucuresti as fast as possible. It’s acknowledged by all as the worst city in Romania. You would likely have a FAR more enjoyable time in a city like Brasov or Cluj. Best of luck!