‘Tis the season to be jolly… Atterbury Europe’s head of asset management Vlad Valcea talks all things festive, and what a Romanian Christmas is all about
What is your first childhood memory of Christmas? Did your family go all out celebrating Christmas?
My earliest flashbacks are of presents under the Christmas tree, of course; but also of one particular Christmas party with my parents and family friends. One of my father’s friends disguised himself as Santa with a full costume, a white beard and all, but I somehow recognised his shoes and so I called him out!
And what about now… what are your Christmas/holiday plans for this year?
We’ll be spending the holidays with our kids and some friends, and hopefully with grandparents as well.
Which Christmas-time tradition is your favourite?
I love the part where we pick the Christmas tree and get it ready in its corner in the house. It’s always messy, but it’s fun. And after that I really enjoy opening the presents together with the kids and watching their faces and reactions.
Do you have a favourite Christmas carol, or song?
Although not necessarily planned, every year somebody starts singing some carol they like, and in the end we each sing our preferred one. The one carol that always comes to my mind and I suppose it’s my favourite all-time hit then is a Romanian carol called Domn, Domn, Sa-naltam.
Have you had the chance to experience a summer Christmas in South Africa yet? If so, do you still prefer the winter Christmases of Europe?
No, I haven’t yet spent a Christmas in South Africa, although I’ve been there in January. I loved the summer weather in January, but when it comes to Christmas-time I prefer the cold and snowy atmosphere I grew up with – hopefully we have snow this year!
What food HAS to be on the menu for your Christmas meal?
For me sarmale (Romanian cabbage rolls) are an absolute must, followed by zacusca (a delicious eggplant spread), palinka (traditional fruit brandy) and the typical Romanian pork treats – lard, crackling, sausages and more!