Serbia Serbian: (Srbija / Србија) is a country that was a founder and one of six republics forming the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. It is in the Balkans, in Southern Europe. It is surrounded by Montenegro to the south, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the west, Bulgaria to the southeast, Croatia to the northwest, Hungary to the north, Macedonia to the south, and Romania to the northeast. It controls one of the major land routes from Central Europe to Turkey and further on to the Near East.
History
The first Serbian state was formed in the early 11th century, expanding by the mid 14th century to an empire comprising most of the Balkans. In 1389, Serbs lost a decisive battle in the Kosovo field against Ottoman empire. Serbia managed to preserve its autonomy for another seventy years only to be finally overwhelmed by the Turks in 1459. An uprising in the early 1800s that grew in the full scale war (War of Restoration) led to the restoration of Serbian independence in 1815.
The 1914 Austro-Hungarian invasion of Serbia following the asassination of Archduke Ferdinand by an ethnic Serb high school student precipitated the first World War. In its aftermath,in 1918, victorious Serbia gatherd all south Slav lands (Croatia, Slovenia, Slavonia, Dalmatia, Bosnia and Herzegowina, and Montenegro)into the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes; The country's name was changed to Yugoslavia in 1929. Invasion and occupation by Germany and Italy in 1941 was resisted by Yugoslav Army in fatherland (Chetniks), commanded by Lt.-Gen Dragoljub Mihajlović and communist led guerilla (partisans) who eventually started fighting each other as well as the invaders. The partisans, commanded by Field-Marshal Josip Broz Tito emerged victorious and formed a provisional governement that abolished monarchy and proclaimed republic in 1946 after a dubious referendum. At the end of the war nearly all ethnic Germans left the country. Although pro-Communist, J.B. Tito's new government successfully steered its own delecate path between the Warsaw Pact nations and the West for the next four and a half decades.
In the early 1990s, post-Tito Yugoslavia began to unravel along ethnic lines: Slovenia, Croatia, and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia all split from the Yugoslav Union in 1991; and Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1992. All of efforts to preserve Yugoslavia were ultimately unsuccessful and bloody civil wars broke out in Croatia and in Bosnia. The remaining republics of Serbia and Montenegro declared a new "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia" (FRY) in 1992. Slobodan Milosevic was elected the first president of Serbia. In the late 1990s, the conflict with the Albanian separatist movement in Kosovo led to a NATO bombing campaign and direct intervention, which left the placement of Kosovo under UN administration. Slobodan Milosevic, by this time elected for the president of the federation, lost Federal elections in the fall of 2000 to Vojislav Kostunica. The country reestablished its membership in the OUN and started preparations to join the EU. In 2002, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro began negotiations to forge a looser relationship, which led first to the name change of the nation to "Serbia and Montenegro", then culminated in Montenegro declaring independence in June 2006. More recently Kosovo unilaterally declared its independence, however this act remains unrecognised by Serbia and some other countries.
Independence
4 February 2003 (when changed from Federal Republic of Yugoslavia to State Union of Serbia and Montenegro), 5 June 2006 (from State Union of Serbia and Montenegro to Serbia)
National holidays
January 1 - 2 (New Year's Day), January 7 (Eastern Orthodox Christmas), January 14 (National Holiday (Orthodox New Year), January 27 (Saint Sava's feast Day), February 15 (Sretenje / Groundhog Day (Candlemas) / Serbian National Day), May 1 - 2 (Labour Day), May 9 (Victory Day), June 28 (Vidovdan / St Vitus Day)
Climate
In the north: continental climate (cold winters and hot, humid summers with well distributed rainfall); central portion: moderate continental climate; to the south: hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall.
Regions
Central Serbia - main region
Vojvodina - autonomous northern province (autonomna pokrajina / аутономна покрајина)
Kosovo - considered an autonomous southern province, (de-facto independent country)
Kragujevac - The first capital of modern Serbia, industrial hub and the 4th largest city in Serbia.
Kraljevo
Novi Sad - Provincial Capital of Vojvodina and second largest city (after Belgrade)
Vršac - One of the most beautiful cities in Serbia
Other destinations
Palić The lovely lake in North Serbia, baroque parks, the monuments of art nouveau architecture and long tradition in catering made it fashionable summer resort. Palić is the host of ,,Film Festival,,(http://palicfilmfestival.com/), ,,World Ethno Music Festival,, (http://etnofest.org/) and sport - recreation events.
Staro Selo 3 kilometers south of Velika Plana, it has an all wooden 19th century church, build by Vujica Vuličević, with then ruler of Serbia, prince Miloš Obrenović, in repentance for their role in the death of Đorđe Petrović Karađorđe in the near vicinity, the commander-in-chief in the first phase of the War of restoration (First Serbian uprising)against the Ottoman empire. The reason for its wooden structure is so that in the oncoming attack of the Turks, it could be easily dismantled and moved to a safer location. Regarded as national Serbian treasure.
Guča a village in Dragačevo district (about 20 km from Čačak) where a famous brass music festival (Трубачки фестивал) is held annually.
Zlatibor is a very famous mountainous tourist site and ski-resort in South-Western Serbia.
Kopaonik National Park as well as the ski-resort in the Kopaonik Mountain in southern Serbia.
Petrovaradin fortress, one of the greatest and preserved XVIII century fortress in Europe.
Sokobanja, the road to Sokobanja detaches on 200-th kilometer of the motorway Belgrade - Athens. Sokobanja is situated in basin between the mountains Rtanj(1,560m) and Ozren(1,117m), 400m above the sea level. Sokobanja is a famous spa and tourist place in Serbia for its moderate continental climate and immense surfaces of woods, fresh air and a lot of thermo-mineral sources. They all make Sokobanja an exceptional place in Serbia.
Subotica has been rated as one of the most beautiful cities of Serbia. It is in North Serbia, and is the closest city to Palic. Main languages are Serbian and Hungarian.
Sremska Mitrovica is one of the oldest cities in Serbia and in Europe. Known as Sirmium in Roman Empire, it was one of the four capitals during tetrarchy period.
Negotin one of the smallest but very beautiful
Lepenski Vir
Smederevo is a medieval capitol of Serbia. It was also a capitol during the 1st Serbian Uprising against the Turks in the early XIX century. It has a medieval fortress built in XV century by despot Djuradj Branković and it is the largest lowland medieval fortress in Europe.
Getting there
While you might not need a visa ...
Similar to neighbouring Bosnia and Croatia, foreigners are required by law to register themselves with the police station in their district within 24 hours of receiving a Serbian entry stamp at a border crossing or airport.
Registration is done automatically by hotel staff upon check-in, however if you are staying with friends in a private dwelling, you must register your presence with the police in the district in which you are staying.
You will receive the bottom part of the Foreigner Registration Form to carry with you if registering at a police station, or a printout from hotel reception if staying at a hotel; when exiting the country, you will be required to present it to the Border Police. Sometimes they will not ask for it, and you can keep it as an administrative memento. Never forget, though, that failure to register can result in prosecution and a large fine.
Getting into Serbia does not constitute a problem for most European nationals. You don't need to obtain a visa for entering. Citizens of USA, Canada and Australia and the European Union do not need visas either. Citizens of Bosnia need only ID. Check with your nearest Serbian embassy for current and detailed information.
Serbia has announced that visitors with Kosovan visas or passport stamps will not be allowed into the country. In practice, officers seem content with simply crossing them out and replacing them with Serbian ones, but it would be foolhardy to rely on this. Likewise, leaving Serbia via Kosovo is not considered leaving the country, so you run the risk of being charged with overstaying if you ever return.
By plane
Belgrade The main airport of Serbia is Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG), just a few kilometres from downtown Belgrade. Major European airlines fly to Belgrade. Serbian national airline Jat Airways flies to all major cities in Europe, northern Africa and the Middle East. These are the following airlines that fly to Belgrade:
TIP: Licensed taxi service fare from the airport to the city has a flat rate of RSD 800 (€10). Travel time to the city centre is approximately 20 minutes.
Incoming taxis have constant radio communication with airport authorities. This ensures passengers a better alternative.
Should there be any problem finding taxi you should address the staff of the Tourist Organisation of Belgrade in the Arrivals Hall to call a taxi for you.
All taxis working at the airport are comfortable limousines in top-notch condition.
Using taxi services for destinations outside metropolitan Belgrade is unwise, as prices are unreasonably high. All licensed taxi drivers have a badge, an oval blue license plate with a serial number, and the Belgrade Coat of Arms displayed on the roof.
Make sure that the taximeter is switched on. Tarif 1 is the correct one Monday to Saturday from morning till 10AM. Tarif 3 is the 'trick' fare used to scam out of obscene amounts of money. Or better take one of the several bus lines, check the Belgrade section.
Niš - Serbia's second international airport is in Niš - Niš Constantine the Great International Airport (INI). It's connected with Zurich as well as some other European cities during the winter months, serving as the airport for the near by ski resorts at Kopaonik. The following airlines operate to and from the airport: Jat Airways (Basel/Mulhouse), Tivat, Zürich), Montenegro Airlines (Tivat) and Thomsonfly (London - Gatwick Airport (seasonal))
By train
Several international trains from Belgrade to Budapest and Vienna and to Zagreb-Ljubljana-München/Zurich. Usually, they should not be too late (seldom more than 1/4 of an hour). The night train to Budapest was very regularly overcrowded in summer 2005 (only 1 sitting car). Furthermore, there are direct (day or night) trains from Belgrade to Skopje - Thessaloniki (Belgrade-Thessaloniki €30/seat+20euro/bed one way at 2 beds compartment). Trains to Sofia and Bucarest however tend to be often quite late (about an hour). Trains to Macedonia (Greece), Bulgaria and Romania are allegedly reported to oftenly consist of old, not very comfortable, cars.
For timetables and all other infos, check website of national career Serbian Railways
A cheap way of traveling to or from Serbia might be the Balkan Flexipass.
By car
Be sure your Green Card has an uncancelled "YU" or "SRB" box. Coming in from Hungary, the Szeged/Horgos border crossing is notorious for its congestion. If crossing the border from Hungary, try the Tompa/Kelebija crossing point, about 20km west.
On the two-lane E75 between Szeged, Hungary to Belgrade, please note that cars over-taking will often use the unofficial "middle-lane". Exercise caution and pull over to the hard shoulder on the right to let them through safely. The dual-carriageway should be completed in 2009 to eliminate this risk.
The highway between the Croatian border and Leskovac (via Belgrade and Niš) is tolled, but the toll is no longer higher for foreigners than for Serbs. In 2010, Serbia is scheduled to introduce a vignette system.
Police are generally stationed at major junctions or at underpasses to control traffic and speed. Drivers commonly warn others of a police presence by flicking the high-beams on two or three times.
Note that traffic law is very strict. No person under age of 14 must not ride in the front seat, seat belts are obligatory for those who sit in the front, alcohol is not tolerated at all, rookie drivers need to have an experienced driver in the car if their driving career is less than 5 years and fines are from €100 for smaller violations up to 60 days in prison and €5000 for causing a larger traffic accident (both locals and foreigners). IMPORTANT! If you are driving on country and local roads pay attention to the tractors and other heavy agricultural machines especially at night! They can be without proper light signalization and hard to see so slow down at night.
All highway tolls are quiet cheap and can be paid in Serbian dinars or Euros.
By bus
Vienna - Buses leave from Vienna International Busterminal (Erdberg) almost every day. For destinations south of Belgrade, Zoran Reisen coaches leave at 3PM on Friday, and charge around €45 for a one-way trip (as at August 2007).
Hungary - When you take an international bus from Belgrade towards Germany, don't surprised when a collection is held inside the bus for paying the Hungarian border guards a fee to let the bus go faster over the border. This is what you would call a bribe. On your way into Serbia it seems 'cheaper', though the Hungarian border guards will demand all passengers sign a form declaring they 'offered no gift, cash or otherwise, to Hungarian border police' whether they paid a bribe or not.
By boat
There are boat tours, which pass through Belgrade. These are English Trafalgar Tours which cruise along the Danube and have a two day stopover in Belgrade.
By thumb
Hitchhiking across Serbia is still acceptable and most drivers will treat you like a friend. However, necessary precautions should still be taken. Generally, it is easy to hitchhike through Vojvodina and it's much more difficult to hitch a ride from Belgrade to the south, in the direction of Kosovo, or Macedonia and Montenegro. The Hitchhiker's guide to Serbia offers a collection of hitchhiking tips for a number of cities and towns in Serbia. It was made by the members of the Serbia Travel Club, an association of independent travelers from Serbia, and is available in English and Serbian.
By bike
The cycling route EuroVelo 6 which runs from the Atlantic Ocean to the Black Sea, crosses Serbia by following the Danube river. Most of the advised itinerary follows minor paved roads, and directions are clearly indicated by a specific EuroVelo 6 signage.
Although too few cities offer appropriate cyclist-friendly infrastructures, cycling slowly gains interest among the population as an economic and sustainable alternative way of touring and commuting.
See
There are two rivers which go through Belgrade: The Sava and Danube. There are a lot of old buildings on all four banks, including a huge fortress (Kalemegdan), that has been built, modelled and remodelled by Celts, Romans, Byzantins, Serbs, Austrians and Turks over more than 2,000 years. It has a multitude of various towers and ports, and two long walking/biking paths along both rivers.
Medieval orthodox monasteries – Studenica, Manasija, Žiča, Ravanica. Excellent opportunity to see part of Serbian history. If you are interested in art, there are excellent fresco masterpieces. Recommendaion – “Beli Anđeo” (White Angel) fresco in Mileseva monastery.
Things to do
Belgrade night life – Belgrade is very famous for its whole-night-party clubs. If you are looking for a place to feel the local atmosphere and good vibes, visit bohemian street “Skadarlija”.
For younger population club Plastic is the place to go. It offers a variety of electronic club music and often
hosts very popular international DJ's as well as the best of Serbian DJs. For more info (http://www.club-plastic.com/)
Coffee Bar "Dali" in Hilandarska street is one of the hot spots of young urban Belgrade, although very small it is always full
and offers great atmosphere and good music usually selected by some of the best Belgrade DJs. Style's vary from Hip Hop, Soul, Jazz,
Electro, Drum n Bass to Bosanova, Nu Funk and RnB. And if you like "Rakija", on Fridays this bar has a theme night called "Rakijanje"
(Drinking Rakija in Serbian slang).
Jazz lovers should visit "Ptica" (the Bird) in Šantićeva street. Fridays and Saturdays live jazz music. Club also has a CD shop dedicated only to jazz music.
Also, don't forget to visit "Tramvaj" at the corner of Ruzveltova and 27. Marta street. Live music, young people and excellent atmosphere.
Ada Ciganlija is also an excellent place to kick back and relax during summer. It is as locals call it the sea of Belgrade. A lot of sport fields and courts (soccer, basketball, golf, volleyball, etc.). Cafes serving ice cream and beer abound on the banks of this lake-beach park.
Favorite leisure activity in Belgrade is drinking coffee in numerous bars, bistros and cafés (especially in Strahinjića Bana street, which is known locally as Silicon Valley as it is frequented by loud, vulgar and surgically-enhanced folksingers along with their hangers-on and wannabes). It is very strange, but most of places are occupied all day long - ie, within working hours. You should check: Downtown café, Buka bar, Movie bar, Iron café, Biblioteka café, Monza café-boat, Bibis café-boat, and many more; People who are not in the folk and MTV music, and don't like to drink overpriced coffee, should avoid this street. There are coffee bars on almost every corner in Belgrade, which offer more relaxed atmosphere and are designed with more taste that those in Strahinjića Bana street.
If you like rock music go to "Danguba" located in Cirila i Metodija 2 or "Living Room" located in "Student Cultural Center" (or better known as SKC) at the corner of Kralja Milana street and Resavska street. Live music every weekend and admission fee is between 100 to 250 RSD (1,5 - €3).
Belgrade Beer Fest, which takes place at Ušće every August. (http://www.belgradebeerfest.com/active/en/home.html)
Smederevo is a town about 50 km from Belgrade. There are direct bus lines almost every half an hour and it takes about one hour to get there from Belgrade. It is considered as the unofficial rock 'n' roll capitol of Serbia because of its many rock musicians and bands who live there or were born there. See the largest lowland medieval fortress in Europe (especially at night when its lights give a special romantic and mystical atmosphere) or go to a rock concert at "Moto Club Street Fighter" (http://www.myspace.com/motoclubstreetfighter) which is located at the very bank of the Danube. At the end of September the town hosts a traditional festival called "Smederevska Jesen" (Smederevo Autumn) which is a festival of vine and Serbian culture with many concerts and other happenings. During the festival there is a carnival located at the end of the town but AVOID IT because it's loud and crowded and basically there's nothing to see or do. Just stay in the town center. Museum of Smederevo holds a lot of Roman and medieval items and collections so for history lovers it's a must-see.
EXIT festival – Biggest music festival in SE Europe, that is happening in the beginning of July, in Novi Sad, on Petrovaradin fortress. (http://www.exitfest.org/)
New Year's Eve
Restaurants, clubs, cafe's and hotels are usually full-booked and organize New Years celebrations with food and live music.
However, Serbian New Year's celebrations are most known for the outdoors festivities in Belgrade, and several other major cities such as Novi Sad, Niš and Jagodina. As of mid-December, cities are extensively decorated and lit. The decorations remain until way into January due to the persistent influence of the old, Julian calendar. Throughout the region, especially amongst former Yugoslav republics, Belgrade is known as the place to be for major parties, concerts and happenings (see for further info). It has become common for large groups of Slovene's to visit their former capital and celebrate the beginning of a new year. Especially since the mid-nineties, street celebrations grew into mass gatherings with hundreds of thousands of people, celebrating New Year on one of several locations throughout Belgrade.
Also, on January 14th Serbians celebrate so called Serbian New Year, which is actually New Year's Eve by Eastern Church calender. In the night between January 13th and 14th you can actually re-live New Year's Eve.
Eat
When ordering a burger ask for 'pljeskavica' (pronounced: pl-yee-eska-veetsa) ask for kajmak (like mildly sour cream) (pronounced: kay-mahk) it tastes way better than it sounds. Stepin Vajat and Duff at Autokomanda, Loki in downtown area and Iva in Žarkovo are the best grill fast food restaurants in town. Also try ćevapcici (pronounced: tse-vaptsitsi), they are small parcels of minced meat, grilled with hot spices. It is considered a local fast food delicacy. Highly recommended to carnivores.
Burek (pronounced Boor-ek), sometimes decribed as the Balkan equivalent of McDonalds due to its being sold everywhere, is very delicious. It is made with a range of fillings including meat, cheese, spinach, apple, cherry....... Not for dieters as it is quite oily. Morning is definitely the best time to eat this (sometimes sold-out by afternoon).
Kiflice (kee-flee-tse)are lovely little crescent rolls.
Paprikas (paprika-sh) - stew with paprika often with chicken
Gulas - stew with paprika with beef
Sarma - cabbage rolls, similar to dolmades but made with sauerkraut instead of vine leaves
Gibanica -(ghee-ban-eetsa) - phillo pie with spinach and cheese or just cheese (like spanakopita or tiropita in Greece)
Pohovane Paprike (Po-ho-va-ne Pap-reekay) - paprika rolled in soya oil and wheat flower and fried in sunflower oil, for vegetarians
Pasulj - (pas-ool-y) - beans-a national specialty. Often cooked for a long time with onion and paprika. Delicious.
Riblja čorba - (reeblya-a chorba) Fish soup using freshwater catch.
Roštilj (barbecue) - the most delicious food in the world
Prebranac (pre-bra-nats) - is for vegetarians. It's cooked and roasted beans with various spices and vegetables. Completely meat free.
Alva - a sweet of Turkish origin. Made of sugar and nuts.
Proja (Proya) - a type of corn bread with white cheese. A national specialty.
Drink
Rakija (excellent brandy that has many flavours, like plum (pronounce like she-lyee-va), quince (dun-ya), apricot (khay-see-ya)... - You should know that some prestigious brand of rakija can be extremely expensive like Zuta Osa (zhu-ta osa) which means Yellow Wasp or Viljamovka (william-ovka) made of pear of the sort william , the most expensive and the most quality ones have a pear fruit in the bottle.
Loza (from grapes, a type of rakija)
Voda = Water
Slivovitza (the national brandy of Serbia, and the most common type of Rakija, very popular, variably strong alcoholic beverage)
Beer. I believe that Jelen (Deer) and Lav (Lion) are the two best varieties of Serb beer, although Niksicko from neighbouring Montenegro also seems very popular.
Tap water is perfectly safe to drink, and mainly of a good quality, too. There are also many springs and fountains with excellent-quality drinking water - the most popular ones being the fountain on Knez Mihailova in Belgrade, and the many fountains in the city of Nis.
One must pay attention when it comes to water in Vojvodina. Some regions ( Kikinda, Zrenjanin..) have heavily polluted water, that is not even used for cooking, only as technical water.
Buy
Downtown Belgrade is populated with many high-end as well as midrange shops. "Knez Mihailova" is the biggest shopping street, but there are also quite a few shopping malls, such as Delta City and Ušće Shopping Center. Imported western food is available in many supermarkets, especially in the Croatian-owned "Idea". In nearly all Serbian pharmacies (apoteka) you can buy prescription drugs without prescription.
Talk
Languages: Serbian (the majority), also Hungarian in the north.
English is commonly spoken throughout Serbia and the younger people tend to have excellent command. They are also quite willing to practice it with foreigners. Also you can try with young people talking German, French or Spanish which are taught in Serbian schools.
The Serbian language similar to with Croatian and Bosnian. Before the era of nationalist linguistic policies and the breakup of the former Yugoslavia, they were all known as Serbo-Croatian. Today people in the former Yugoslavia no longer use this general term for what remains a common language.
If you speak Russian it can prove to be occasionally helpful for you. Even though Serbia has never been politically involved in any way with Russia, the two languages have some similarities. This also includes all other slavic languages, especially Bulgarian and Macedonian.
In Vojvodina most people speak Serbian, but other languages are also used. In some towns near the Hungarian boarder you are more likely to hear Hungarian. There are many smaller minorities, like the Slovaks, the Romanians, and the Russians, etc. who often speak their native languages as well.
Etiquette
Since many Serbs feel nationally frustrated by the defeats in recent historical events, it is best to avoid discussion of the 1990's Yugoslavian Wars, the NATO bombing of Serbia, and president Milosevic's administration. If someone brings the topic up, try to avoid giving any strong opinions until you can assess your acquaintance's views. Do NOT mention Kosovo. Due to the US's vocal support of Kosovar independence, in addition to the 1999 air strikes, there is some ill-will directed towards the West, particularly towards the USA (though unlikely on a personal level). On the other hand, talking about Socialist Yugoslavia and Tito will not raise as many eyebrows; as most will not hesitate in talking about it and some may even approach it with a strong degree of affection towards that more stable and peaceful era. Remember Serbia does not recognize the independence of Kosovo, but does maintain relations with Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, and Macedonia. Relations with Bulgaria have bittered over Kosovo as well.
When toasting in Serbia, as in the most of european countries, make sure you make eye contact. You may be invited to drink gallons, but are expected to be able to hold your drink. Being obviously drunk is a sign of bad taste, lack of character, and worse. It is always nice to toast in your companion's native tongue. Cheers is živeli in Serbian, gëzuar in Albanian (Don’t confuse these two,or you will be in trouble!) and egészségedre in Hungarian.
The word molim is key to polite conversation in Serbian. It basically means please, but is also an appropriate response when somebody thanks you (and says hvala). It also means, What’s that? if you didn’t understand some word. Just saying Šta? (What?) can sound rude. It may be said that the use of the word molim is similar to the use of bitte in German.
Like most European languages, has the formal and informal way of saying you (Vi and ti). Use the formal Vi version when addressing older people. People are normally not addressed or referred to by their first names, unless among friends or relatives.
Serbian greetings are:
Dobro jutro = Good morning | Dobar dan = "Good day" indeed to be used most of the day | Dobro veče = Good evening | Doviđenja = Bye | Laku noć = Good night (only when going to sleep, otherwise Dobro veče) | Zdravo = The most common informal greeting, used both when coming and leaving.
Safety
Serbia is generally a very safe place to visit. The locals are incredibly polite and helpful in case you require any assistance. However, you should always be aware of pickpockets, mainly in crowded tourist places and on public transportation. Street robberies, murders, or attacks are highly unusual even in dark or remote parts of the city. One should always watch out for drivers, who can be very rude to pedestrians or cyclists.
General
Serbia is a lovely country, open for tourism all year round. In summer tourists love spending their time in Belgrade and enjoy the nature of many national parks throughout the country. In winter tourists are warmly welcomed to mountain resorts (one of the most popular being Kopaonik (featured on BBC as one of the best ski destinations in Europe)). There are also many spa resorts such as Sokobanja, Niška Banja and Vrnjačka Banja.
Serbs are warm people especially towards tourists. Most Serbs speak some English (seniors, however, are more likely to speak German and/or French), so you will be able to find your way around by asking directions. Most tourists come to Serbia in the summer and you can often hear German, Italian, French and English in the streets of Belgrade, while Slovenian tourists pour for New Year hollidays.
Climate
In the north: continental climate (cold winters and hot, humid summers with well distributed rainfall); central portion: moderate continental climate; to the south: hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall.
Terrain
Extremely varied; to the north, rich fertile plains; to the east, limestone ranges and basins; to the southeast, ancient mountains and hills. Although the region around the town of Mionica has been known for some earthquakes in recent years, these were by no means destructive.
Highest point
Đeravica 2,656 m
History
The first Serbian state was formed in the early 11th century, expanding by the mid 14th century to an empire comprising most of the Balkans. In 1389, Serbs lost a decisive battle in the Kosovo field against Ottoman empire. Serbia managed to preserve its autonomy for another seventy years only to be finally overwhelmed by the Turks in 1459. An uprising in the early 1800s that grew in the full scale war (War of Restoration) led to the restoration of Serbian independence in 1815.
The 1914 Austro-Hungarian invasion of Serbia following the asassination of Archduke Ferdinand by an ethnic Serb high school student precipitated the first World War. In its aftermath,in 1918, victorious Serbia gatherd all south Slav lands (Croatia, Slovenia, Slavonia, Dalmatia, Bosnia and Herzegowina, and Montenegro)into the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes; The country's name was changed to Yugoslavia in 1929. Invasion and occupation by Germany and Italy in 1941 was resisted by Yugoslav Army in fatherland (Chetniks), commanded by Lt.-Gen Dragoljub Mihajlović and communist led guerilla (partisans) who eventually started fighting each other as well as the invaders. The partisans, commanded by Field-Marshal Josip Broz Tito emerged victorious and formed a provisional governement that abolished monarchy and proclaimed republic in 1946 after a dubious referendum. At the end of the war nearly all ethnic Germans left the country. Although pro-Communist, J.B. Tito's new government successfully steered its own delecate path between the Warsaw Pact nations and the West for the next four and a half decades.
In the early 1990s, post-Tito Yugoslavia began to unravel along ethnic lines: Slovenia, Croatia, and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia all split from the Yugoslav Union in 1991; and Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1992. All of efforts to preserve Yugoslavia were ultimately unsuccessful and bloody civil wars broke out in Croatia and in Bosnia. The remaining republics of Serbia and Montenegro declared a new "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia" (FRY) in 1992. Slobodan Milosevic was elected the first president of Serbia. In the late 1990s, the conflict with the Albanian separatist movement in Kosovo led to a NATO bombing campaign and direct intervention, which left the placement of Kosovo under UN administration. Slobodan Milosevic, by this time elected for the president of the federation, lost Federal elections in the fall of 2000 to Vojislav Kostunica. The country reestablished its membership in the OUN and started preparations to join the EU. In 2002, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro began negotiations to forge a looser relationship, which led first to the name change of the nation to "Serbia and Montenegro", then culminated in Montenegro declaring independence in June 2006. More recently Kosovo unilaterally declared its independence, however this act remains unrecognised by Serbia and some other countries.
Independence
4 February 2003 (when changed from Federal Republic of Yugoslavia to State Union of Serbia and Montenegro), 5 June 2006 (from State Union of Serbia and Montenegro to Serbia)
National holidays
January 1 - 2 (New Year's Day), January 7 (Eastern Orthodox Christmas), January 14 (National Holiday (Orthodox New Year), January 27 (Saint Sava's feast Day), February 15 (Sretenje / Groundhog Day (Candlemas) / Serbian National Day), May 1 - 2 (Labour Day), May 9 (Victory Day), June 28 (Vidovdan / St Vitus Day)
Money
Serbia's official currency is the Serbian Dinar (RSD). The Serbian dinar can be exchanged in most of the banks throughout the Europe. However, it is best to convert at the airport (even though the rate there tends to be a bit higher) or in the banks located in the towns or in the numerous and visibly marked authorized exchange offices. Euro is occasionally being accepted, but prices are often overestimated when directly compared to the Dinar. Belgrade is typically on pair with many European cities prices, however, outside the capital prices of almost any item are lot lower when compared to the capital.
Typically, 120 Dinars for a coke in a Belgrade bar, and 150 Dinars for 3 cokes in a bar outside the capital.
On September 2009 the exchange rate stood at 63 Serbian Dinars for 1 US Dollar, and 93 Serbian Dinars for €1.
There are three mobile phone networks in Serbia: MTS, Telenor and Vip. Prepaid SIM cards cost 200 dinars.
In Vip stores you can buy a Vip 226 (rebranded Sagem my220V) phone with prepaid SIM card for 1999 dinars.
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Serbia Serbian: (Srbija / Србија) is a country that was a founder and one of six republics forming the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. It is in the Balkans, in Southern Europe. It is surrounded by Montenegro to the south, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the west, Bulgaria to the southeast, Croatia to the northwest, Hungary to the north, Macedonia to the south, and Romania to the northeast. It controls one of the major land routes from Central Europe to Turkey and further on to the Near East.
History
The first Serbian state was formed in the early 11th century, expanding by the mid 14th century to an empire comprising most of the Balkans. In 1389, Serbs lost a decisive battle in the Kosovo field against Ottoman empire. Serbia managed to preserve its autonomy for another seventy years only to be finally overwhelmed by the Turks in 1459. An uprising in the early 1800s that grew in the full scale war (War of Restoration) led to the restoration of Serbian independence in 1815.
The 1914 Austro-Hungarian invasion of Serbia following the asassination of Archduke Ferdinand by an ethnic Serb high school student precipitated the first World War. In its aftermath,in 1918, victorious Serbia gatherd all south Slav lands (Croatia, Slovenia, Slavonia, Dalmatia, Bosnia and Herzegowina, and Montenegro)into the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes; The country's name was changed to Yugoslavia in 1929. Invasion and occupation by Germany and Italy in 1941 was resisted by Yugoslav Army in fatherland (Chetniks), commanded by Lt.-Gen Dragoljub Mihajlović and communist led guerilla (partisans) who eventually started fighting each other as well as the invaders. The partisans, commanded by Field-Marshal Josip Broz Tito emerged victorious and formed a provisional governement that abolished monarchy and proclaimed republic in 1946 after a dubious referendum. At the end of the war nearly all ethnic Germans left the country. Although pro-Communist, J.B. Tito's new government successfully steered its own delecate path between the Warsaw Pact nations and the West for the next four and a half decades. In the early 1990s, post-Tito Yugoslavia began to unravel along ethnic lines: Slovenia, Croatia, and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia all split from the Yugoslav Union in 1991; and Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1992. All of efforts to preserve Yugoslavia were ultimately unsuccessful and bloody civil wars broke out in Croatia and in Bosnia. The remaining republics of Serbia and Montenegro declared a new "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia" (FRY) in 1992. Slobodan Milosevic was elected the first president of Serbia. In the late 1990s, the conflict with the Albanian separatist movement in Kosovo led to a NATO bombing campaign and direct intervention, which left the placement of Kosovo under UN administration. Slobodan Milosevic, by this time elected for the president of the federation, lost Federal elections in the fall of 2000 to Vojislav Kostunica. The country reestablished its membership in the OUN and started preparations to join the EU. In 2002, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro began negotiations to forge a looser relationship, which led first to the name change of the nation to "Serbia and Montenegro", then culminated in Montenegro declaring independence in June 2006. More recently Kosovo unilaterally declared its independence, however this act remains unrecognised by Serbia and some other countries.
Climate
In the north: continental climate (cold winters and hot, humid summers with well distributed rainfall); central portion: moderate continental climate; to the south: hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall.
Regions
Central Serbia - main region
Vojvodina - autonomous northern province (autonomna pokrajina / аутономна покрајина)
Kosovo - considered an autonomous southern province, (de-facto independent country)
Cities
Belgrade (Beograd / Београд) - Capital
Niš - The third largest city in Serbia.
Kragujevac - The first capital of modern Serbia, industrial hub and the 4th largest city in Serbia.
Kraljevo
Novi Sad - Provincial Capital of Vojvodina and second largest city (after Belgrade)
Vršac - One of the most beautiful cities in Serbia
Other destinations
Palić The lovely lake in North Serbia, baroque parks, the monuments of art nouveau architecture and long tradition in catering made it fashionable summer resort. Palić is the host of ,,Film Festival,,(http://palicfilmfestival.com/), ,,World Ethno Music Festival,, (http://etnofest.org/) and sport - recreation events.
Staro Selo 3 kilometers south of Velika Plana, it has an all wooden 19th century church, build by Vujica Vuličević, with then ruler of Serbia, prince Miloš Obrenović, in repentance for their role in the death of Đorđe Petrović Karađorđe in the near vicinity, the commander-in-chief in the first phase of the War of restoration (First Serbian uprising)against the Ottoman empire. The reason for its wooden structure is so that in the oncoming attack of the Turks, it could be easily dismantled and moved to a safer location. Regarded as national Serbian treasure.
Guča a village in Dragačevo district (about 20 km from Čačak) where a famous brass music festival (Трубачки фестивал) is held annually.
Zlatibor is a very famous mountainous tourist site and ski-resort in South-Western Serbia.
Kopaonik National Park as well as the ski-resort in the Kopaonik Mountain in southern Serbia.
Petrovaradin fortress, one of the greatest and preserved XVIII century fortress in Europe.
Sokobanja, the road to Sokobanja detaches on 200-th kilometer of the motorway Belgrade - Athens. Sokobanja is situated in basin between the mountains Rtanj(1,560m) and Ozren(1,117m), 400m above the sea level. Sokobanja is a famous spa and tourist place in Serbia for its moderate continental climate and immense surfaces of woods, fresh air and a lot of thermo-mineral sources. They all make Sokobanja an exceptional place in Serbia.
Subotica has been rated as one of the most beautiful cities of Serbia. It is in North Serbia, and is the closest city to Palic. Main languages are Serbian and Hungarian.
Sremska Mitrovica is one of the oldest cities in Serbia and in Europe. Known as Sirmium in Roman Empire, it was one of the four capitals during tetrarchy period.
Negotin one of the smallest but very beautiful
Lepenski Vir
Smederevo is a medieval capitol of Serbia. It was also a capitol during the 1st Serbian Uprising against the Turks in the early XIX century. It has a medieval fortress built in XV century by despot Djuradj Branković and it is the largest lowland medieval fortress in Europe.
Getting there
Similar to neighbouring Bosnia and Croatia, foreigners are required by law to register themselves with the police station in their district within 24 hours of receiving a Serbian entry stamp at a border crossing or airport.
Registration is done automatically by hotel staff upon check-in, however if you are staying with friends in a private dwelling, you must register your presence with the police in the district in which you are staying.
You will receive the bottom part of the Foreigner Registration Form to carry with you if registering at a police station, or a printout from hotel reception if staying at a hotel; when exiting the country, you will be required to present it to the Border Police. Sometimes they will not ask for it, and you can keep it as an administrative memento. Never forget, though, that failure to register can result in prosecution and a large fine.
Getting into Serbia does not constitute a problem for most European nationals. You don't need to obtain a visa for entering. Citizens of USA, Canada and Australia and the European Union do not need visas either. Citizens of Bosnia need only ID. Check with your nearest Serbian embassy for current and detailed information.
Serbia has announced that visitors with Kosovan visas or passport stamps will not be allowed into the country. In practice, officers seem content with simply crossing them out and replacing them with Serbian ones, but it would be foolhardy to rely on this. Likewise, leaving Serbia via Kosovo is not considered leaving the country, so you run the risk of being charged with overstaying if you ever return.
By plane
Belgrade The main airport of Serbia is Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG), just a few kilometres from downtown Belgrade. Major European airlines fly to Belgrade. Serbian national airline Jat Airways flies to all major cities in Europe, northern Africa and the Middle East. These are the following airlines that fly to Belgrade:
Aeroflot (Moscow -Sheremetyevo),
Aerosvit Airlines (Kiev -Boryspil, Sofia),
Air France (Paris - Charles de Gaulle),
Alitalia (Milan -Malpensa , Roma) ,
Austrian Airlines (Vienna),
British Airways (London -Heathrow),
CSA Czech Airlines (Prague ),
Gazpromavia (Moscow -Vnukovo, Sochi),
GermanWings (Cologne / Bonn , Stuttgart),
Jat Airways (Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona (starts 2008), Basel/Mulhouse, Banja Luka, Beirut, Berlin-Tegel, Brussels, Cairo (seasonal), Copenhagen, Dubai, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Gothenburg-Landvetter, Hannover, Hamburg, Istanbul-Atatürk, Larnaca, Ljubljana, London-Heathrow, Malta, Moscow-Sheremetyevo, Monastir, Munich, Oslo, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Podgorica, Prague, Pula, Rome-Fiumicino, Sarajevo, Skopje, Stockholm-Arlanda, Stuttgart, Tel Aviv, Thessaloniki, Tirana, Tivat, Trieste, Tripoli, Tunis, Vienna, Zürich),
Kuban Airlines (Sochi),
Lufthansa (Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich),
Montenegro Airlines (Podgorica , Tivat),
Norwegian (Oslo, Stockholm),
Olympic Airlines (Athens),
Royal Wings Airlines (Amman),
Swiss International Air Lines (Zürich, Basel),
Tunisair (Djerba, Monastir)
Turkish Airlines (Antalya, Istanbul-Atatürk).
TIP: Licensed taxi service fare from the airport to the city has a flat rate of RSD 800 (€10). Travel time to the city centre is approximately 20 minutes. Incoming taxis have constant radio communication with airport authorities. This ensures passengers a better alternative. Should there be any problem finding taxi you should address the staff of the Tourist Organisation of Belgrade in the Arrivals Hall to call a taxi for you. All taxis working at the airport are comfortable limousines in top-notch condition.
Using taxi services for destinations outside metropolitan Belgrade is unwise, as prices are unreasonably high. All licensed taxi drivers have a badge, an oval blue license plate with a serial number, and the Belgrade Coat of Arms displayed on the roof. Make sure that the taximeter is switched on. Tarif 1 is the correct one Monday to Saturday from morning till 10AM. Tarif 3 is the 'trick' fare used to scam out of obscene amounts of money. Or better take one of the several bus lines, check the Belgrade section.
By train
Several international trains from Belgrade to Budapest and Vienna and to Zagreb-Ljubljana-München/Zurich. Usually, they should not be too late (seldom more than 1/4 of an hour). The night train to Budapest was very regularly overcrowded in summer 2005 (only 1 sitting car). Furthermore, there are direct (day or night) trains from Belgrade to Skopje - Thessaloniki (Belgrade-Thessaloniki €30/seat+20euro/bed one way at 2 beds compartment). Trains to Sofia and Bucarest however tend to be often quite late (about an hour). Trains to Macedonia (Greece), Bulgaria and Romania are allegedly reported to oftenly consist of old, not very comfortable, cars.
For timetables and all other infos, check website of national career Serbian Railways
A cheap way of traveling to or from Serbia might be the Balkan Flexipass.
By car
Be sure your Green Card has an uncancelled "YU" or "SRB" box. Coming in from Hungary, the Szeged/Horgos border crossing is notorious for its congestion. If crossing the border from Hungary, try the Tompa/Kelebija crossing point, about 20km west.
On the two-lane E75 between Szeged, Hungary to Belgrade, please note that cars over-taking will often use the unofficial "middle-lane". Exercise caution and pull over to the hard shoulder on the right to let them through safely. The dual-carriageway should be completed in 2009 to eliminate this risk.
The highway between the Croatian border and Leskovac (via Belgrade and Niš) is tolled, but the toll is no longer higher for foreigners than for Serbs. In 2010, Serbia is scheduled to introduce a vignette system.
Police are generally stationed at major junctions or at underpasses to control traffic and speed. Drivers commonly warn others of a police presence by flicking the high-beams on two or three times.
Note that traffic law is very strict. No person under age of 14 must not ride in the front seat, seat belts are obligatory for those who sit in the front, alcohol is not tolerated at all, rookie drivers need to have an experienced driver in the car if their driving career is less than 5 years and fines are from €100 for smaller violations up to 60 days in prison and €5000 for causing a larger traffic accident (both locals and foreigners). IMPORTANT! If you are driving on country and local roads pay attention to the tractors and other heavy agricultural machines especially at night! They can be without proper light signalization and hard to see so slow down at night.
All highway tolls are quiet cheap and can be paid in Serbian dinars or Euros.
By bus
Vienna - Buses leave from Vienna International Busterminal (Erdberg) almost every day. For destinations south of Belgrade, Zoran Reisen coaches leave at 3PM on Friday, and charge around €45 for a one-way trip (as at August 2007).
Hungary - When you take an international bus from Belgrade towards Germany, don't surprised when a collection is held inside the bus for paying the Hungarian border guards a fee to let the bus go faster over the border. This is what you would call a bribe. On your way into Serbia it seems 'cheaper', though the Hungarian border guards will demand all passengers sign a form declaring they 'offered no gift, cash or otherwise, to Hungarian border police' whether they paid a bribe or not.
By boat
There are boat tours, which pass through Belgrade. These are English Trafalgar Tours which cruise along the Danube and have a two day stopover in Belgrade.
By thumb
Hitchhiking across Serbia is still acceptable and most drivers will treat you like a friend. However, necessary precautions should still be taken. Generally, it is easy to hitchhike through Vojvodina and it's much more difficult to hitch a ride from Belgrade to the south, in the direction of Kosovo, or Macedonia and Montenegro. The Hitchhiker's guide to Serbia offers a collection of hitchhiking tips for a number of cities and towns in Serbia. It was made by the members of the Serbia Travel Club, an association of independent travelers from Serbia, and is available in English and Serbian.
By bike
The cycling route EuroVelo 6 which runs from the Atlantic Ocean to the Black Sea, crosses Serbia by following the Danube river. Most of the advised itinerary follows minor paved roads, and directions are clearly indicated by a specific EuroVelo 6 signage. Although too few cities offer appropriate cyclist-friendly infrastructures, cycling slowly gains interest among the population as an economic and sustainable alternative way of touring and commuting.
See
There are two rivers which go through Belgrade: The Sava and Danube. There are a lot of old buildings on all four banks, including a huge fortress (Kalemegdan), that has been built, modelled and remodelled by Celts, Romans, Byzantins, Serbs, Austrians and Turks over more than 2,000 years. It has a multitude of various towers and ports, and two long walking/biking paths along both rivers.
Medieval orthodox monasteries – Studenica, Manasija, Žiča, Ravanica. Excellent opportunity to see part of Serbian history. If you are interested in art, there are excellent fresco masterpieces. Recommendaion – “Beli Anđeo” (White Angel) fresco in Mileseva monastery.
Things to do
Belgrade night life – Belgrade is very famous for its whole-night-party clubs. If you are looking for a place to feel the local atmosphere and good vibes, visit bohemian street “Skadarlija”.
For younger population club Plastic is the place to go. It offers a variety of electronic club music and often hosts very popular international DJ's as well as the best of Serbian DJs. For more info (http://www.club-plastic.com/)
Coffee Bar "Dali" in Hilandarska street is one of the hot spots of young urban Belgrade, although very small it is always full and offers great atmosphere and good music usually selected by some of the best Belgrade DJs. Style's vary from Hip Hop, Soul, Jazz, Electro, Drum n Bass to Bosanova, Nu Funk and RnB. And if you like "Rakija", on Fridays this bar has a theme night called "Rakijanje" (Drinking Rakija in Serbian slang).
Jazz lovers should visit "Ptica" (the Bird) in Šantićeva street. Fridays and Saturdays live jazz music. Club also has a CD shop dedicated only to jazz music.
Also, don't forget to visit "Tramvaj" at the corner of Ruzveltova and 27. Marta street. Live music, young people and excellent atmosphere.
Ada Ciganlija is also an excellent place to kick back and relax during summer. It is as locals call it the sea of Belgrade. A lot of sport fields and courts (soccer, basketball, golf, volleyball, etc.). Cafes serving ice cream and beer abound on the banks of this lake-beach park.
Favorite leisure activity in Belgrade is drinking coffee in numerous bars, bistros and cafés (especially in Strahinjića Bana street, which is known locally as Silicon Valley as it is frequented by loud, vulgar and surgically-enhanced folksingers along with their hangers-on and wannabes). It is very strange, but most of places are occupied all day long - ie, within working hours. You should check: Downtown café, Buka bar, Movie bar, Iron café, Biblioteka café, Monza café-boat, Bibis café-boat, and many more; People who are not in the folk and MTV music, and don't like to drink overpriced coffee, should avoid this street. There are coffee bars on almost every corner in Belgrade, which offer more relaxed atmosphere and are designed with more taste that those in Strahinjića Bana street.
If you like rock music go to "Danguba" located in Cirila i Metodija 2 or "Living Room" located in "Student Cultural Center" (or better known as SKC) at the corner of Kralja Milana street and Resavska street. Live music every weekend and admission fee is between 100 to 250 RSD (1,5 - €3).
Belgrade Beer Fest, which takes place at Ušće every August. (http://www.belgradebeerfest.com/active/en/home.html)
Smederevo is a town about 50 km from Belgrade. There are direct bus lines almost every half an hour and it takes about one hour to get there from Belgrade. It is considered as the unofficial rock 'n' roll capitol of Serbia because of its many rock musicians and bands who live there or were born there. See the largest lowland medieval fortress in Europe (especially at night when its lights give a special romantic and mystical atmosphere) or go to a rock concert at "Moto Club Street Fighter" (http://www.myspace.com/motoclubstreetfighter) which is located at the very bank of the Danube. At the end of September the town hosts a traditional festival called "Smederevska Jesen" (Smederevo Autumn) which is a festival of vine and Serbian culture with many concerts and other happenings. During the festival there is a carnival located at the end of the town but AVOID IT because it's loud and crowded and basically there's nothing to see or do. Just stay in the town center. Museum of Smederevo holds a lot of Roman and medieval items and collections so for history lovers it's a must-see.
EXIT festival – Biggest music festival in SE Europe, that is happening in the beginning of July, in Novi Sad, on Petrovaradin fortress. (http://www.exitfest.org/)
New Year's Eve
Restaurants, clubs, cafe's and hotels are usually full-booked and organize New Years celebrations with food and live music.
However, Serbian New Year's celebrations are most known for the outdoors festivities in Belgrade, and several other major cities such as Novi Sad, Niš and Jagodina. As of mid-December, cities are extensively decorated and lit. The decorations remain until way into January due to the persistent influence of the old, Julian calendar. Throughout the region, especially amongst former Yugoslav republics, Belgrade is known as the place to be for major parties, concerts and happenings (see for further info). It has become common for large groups of Slovene's to visit their former capital and celebrate the beginning of a new year. Especially since the mid-nineties, street celebrations grew into mass gatherings with hundreds of thousands of people, celebrating New Year on one of several locations throughout Belgrade.
Also, on January 14th Serbians celebrate so called Serbian New Year, which is actually New Year's Eve by Eastern Church calender. In the night between January 13th and 14th you can actually re-live New Year's Eve.
Eat
When ordering a burger ask for 'pljeskavica' (pronounced: pl-yee-eska-veetsa) ask for kajmak (like mildly sour cream) (pronounced: kay-mahk) it tastes way better than it sounds. Stepin Vajat and Duff at Autokomanda, Loki in downtown area and Iva in Žarkovo are the best grill fast food restaurants in town. Also try ćevapcici (pronounced: tse-vaptsitsi), they are small parcels of minced meat, grilled with hot spices. It is considered a local fast food delicacy. Highly recommended to carnivores.
Burek (pronounced Boor-ek), sometimes decribed as the Balkan equivalent of McDonalds due to its being sold everywhere, is very delicious. It is made with a range of fillings including meat, cheese, spinach, apple, cherry....... Not for dieters as it is quite oily. Morning is definitely the best time to eat this (sometimes sold-out by afternoon).
Kiflice (kee-flee-tse)are lovely little crescent rolls.
Paprikas (paprika-sh) - stew with paprika often with chicken
Gulas - stew with paprika with beef
Sarma - cabbage rolls, similar to dolmades but made with sauerkraut instead of vine leaves
Gibanica -(ghee-ban-eetsa) - phillo pie with spinach and cheese or just cheese (like spanakopita or tiropita in Greece)
Punjene Paprike - stuffed peppers (Poony-eenay Pap-reekay)
Pohovane Paprike (Po-ho-va-ne Pap-reekay) - paprika rolled in soya oil and wheat flower and fried in sunflower oil, for vegetarians
Pasulj - (pas-ool-y) - beans-a national specialty. Often cooked for a long time with onion and paprika. Delicious.
Riblja čorba - (reeblya-a chorba) Fish soup using freshwater catch.
Roštilj (barbecue) - the most delicious food in the world
Prebranac (pre-bra-nats) - is for vegetarians. It's cooked and roasted beans with various spices and vegetables. Completely meat free.
Alva - a sweet of Turkish origin. Made of sugar and nuts.
Proja (Proya) - a type of corn bread with white cheese. A national specialty.
Drink
Rakija (excellent brandy that has many flavours, like plum (pronounce like she-lyee-va), quince (dun-ya), apricot (khay-see-ya)... - You should know that some prestigious brand of rakija can be extremely expensive like Zuta Osa (zhu-ta osa) which means Yellow Wasp or Viljamovka (william-ovka) made of pear of the sort william , the most expensive and the most quality ones have a pear fruit in the bottle.
Loza (from grapes, a type of rakija)
Voda = Water
Slivovitza (the national brandy of Serbia, and the most common type of Rakija, very popular, variably strong alcoholic beverage)
Beer. I believe that Jelen (Deer) and Lav (Lion) are the two best varieties of Serb beer, although Niksicko from neighbouring Montenegro also seems very popular.
Tap water is perfectly safe to drink, and mainly of a good quality, too. There are also many springs and fountains with excellent-quality drinking water - the most popular ones being the fountain on Knez Mihailova in Belgrade, and the many fountains in the city of Nis. One must pay attention when it comes to water in Vojvodina. Some regions ( Kikinda, Zrenjanin..) have heavily polluted water, that is not even used for cooking, only as technical water.
Buy
Downtown Belgrade is populated with many high-end as well as midrange shops. "Knez Mihailova" is the biggest shopping street, but there are also quite a few shopping malls, such as Delta City and Ušće Shopping Center. Imported western food is available in many supermarkets, especially in the Croatian-owned "Idea". In nearly all Serbian pharmacies (apoteka) you can buy prescription drugs without prescription.
Talk
Languages: Serbian (the majority), also Hungarian in the north.
English is commonly spoken throughout Serbia and the younger people tend to have excellent command. They are also quite willing to practice it with foreigners. Also you can try with young people talking German, French or Spanish which are taught in Serbian schools.
The Serbian language similar to with Croatian and Bosnian. Before the era of nationalist linguistic policies and the breakup of the former Yugoslavia, they were all known as Serbo-Croatian. Today people in the former Yugoslavia no longer use this general term for what remains a common language.
If you speak Russian it can prove to be occasionally helpful for you. Even though Serbia has never been politically involved in any way with Russia, the two languages have some similarities. This also includes all other slavic languages, especially Bulgarian and Macedonian.
In Vojvodina most people speak Serbian, but other languages are also used. In some towns near the Hungarian boarder you are more likely to hear Hungarian. There are many smaller minorities, like the Slovaks, the Romanians, and the Russians, etc. who often speak their native languages as well.
Etiquette
Since many Serbs feel nationally frustrated by the defeats in recent historical events, it is best to avoid discussion of the 1990's Yugoslavian Wars, the NATO bombing of Serbia, and president Milosevic's administration. If someone brings the topic up, try to avoid giving any strong opinions until you can assess your acquaintance's views. Do NOT mention Kosovo. Due to the US's vocal support of Kosovar independence, in addition to the 1999 air strikes, there is some ill-will directed towards the West, particularly towards the USA (though unlikely on a personal level). On the other hand, talking about Socialist Yugoslavia and Tito will not raise as many eyebrows; as most will not hesitate in talking about it and some may even approach it with a strong degree of affection towards that more stable and peaceful era. Remember Serbia does not recognize the independence of Kosovo, but does maintain relations with Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, and Macedonia. Relations with Bulgaria have bittered over Kosovo as well.
When toasting in Serbia, as in the most of european countries, make sure you make eye contact. You may be invited to drink gallons, but are expected to be able to hold your drink. Being obviously drunk is a sign of bad taste, lack of character, and worse. It is always nice to toast in your companion's native tongue. Cheers is živeli in Serbian, gëzuar in Albanian (Don’t confuse these two,or you will be in trouble!) and egészségedre in Hungarian.
The word molim is key to polite conversation in Serbian. It basically means please, but is also an appropriate response when somebody thanks you (and says hvala). It also means, What’s that? if you didn’t understand some word. Just saying Šta? (What?) can sound rude. It may be said that the use of the word molim is similar to the use of bitte in German.
Like most European languages, has the formal and informal way of saying you (Vi and ti). Use the formal Vi version when addressing older people. People are normally not addressed or referred to by their first names, unless among friends or relatives.
Serbian greetings are: Dobro jutro = Good morning | Dobar dan = "Good day" indeed to be used most of the day | Dobro veče = Good evening | Doviđenja = Bye | Laku noć = Good night (only when going to sleep, otherwise Dobro veče) | Zdravo = The most common informal greeting, used both when coming and leaving.
Safety
Serbia is generally a very safe place to visit. The locals are incredibly polite and helpful in case you require any assistance. However, you should always be aware of pickpockets, mainly in crowded tourist places and on public transportation. Street robberies, murders, or attacks are highly unusual even in dark or remote parts of the city. One should always watch out for drivers, who can be very rude to pedestrians or cyclists.
General
Serbia is a lovely country, open for tourism all year round. In summer tourists love spending their time in Belgrade and enjoy the nature of many national parks throughout the country. In winter tourists are warmly welcomed to mountain resorts (one of the most popular being Kopaonik (featured on BBC as one of the best ski destinations in Europe)). There are also many spa resorts such as Sokobanja, Niška Banja and Vrnjačka Banja.
Serbs are warm people especially towards tourists. Most Serbs speak some English (seniors, however, are more likely to speak German and/or French), so you will be able to find your way around by asking directions. Most tourists come to Serbia in the summer and you can often hear German, Italian, French and English in the streets of Belgrade, while Slovenian tourists pour for New Year hollidays.
Climate
In the north: continental climate (cold winters and hot, humid summers with well distributed rainfall); central portion: moderate continental climate; to the south: hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall.
Terrain
Extremely varied; to the north, rich fertile plains; to the east, limestone ranges and basins; to the southeast, ancient mountains and hills. Although the region around the town of Mionica has been known for some earthquakes in recent years, these were by no means destructive.
History
The first Serbian state was formed in the early 11th century, expanding by the mid 14th century to an empire comprising most of the Balkans. In 1389, Serbs lost a decisive battle in the Kosovo field against Ottoman empire. Serbia managed to preserve its autonomy for another seventy years only to be finally overwhelmed by the Turks in 1459. An uprising in the early 1800s that grew in the full scale war (War of Restoration) led to the restoration of Serbian independence in 1815.
The 1914 Austro-Hungarian invasion of Serbia following the asassination of Archduke Ferdinand by an ethnic Serb high school student precipitated the first World War. In its aftermath,in 1918, victorious Serbia gatherd all south Slav lands (Croatia, Slovenia, Slavonia, Dalmatia, Bosnia and Herzegowina, and Montenegro)into the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes; The country's name was changed to Yugoslavia in 1929. Invasion and occupation by Germany and Italy in 1941 was resisted by Yugoslav Army in fatherland (Chetniks), commanded by Lt.-Gen Dragoljub Mihajlović and communist led guerilla (partisans) who eventually started fighting each other as well as the invaders. The partisans, commanded by Field-Marshal Josip Broz Tito emerged victorious and formed a provisional governement that abolished monarchy and proclaimed republic in 1946 after a dubious referendum. At the end of the war nearly all ethnic Germans left the country. Although pro-Communist, J.B. Tito's new government successfully steered its own delecate path between the Warsaw Pact nations and the West for the next four and a half decades. In the early 1990s, post-Tito Yugoslavia began to unravel along ethnic lines: Slovenia, Croatia, and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia all split from the Yugoslav Union in 1991; and Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1992. All of efforts to preserve Yugoslavia were ultimately unsuccessful and bloody civil wars broke out in Croatia and in Bosnia. The remaining republics of Serbia and Montenegro declared a new "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia" (FRY) in 1992. Slobodan Milosevic was elected the first president of Serbia. In the late 1990s, the conflict with the Albanian separatist movement in Kosovo led to a NATO bombing campaign and direct intervention, which left the placement of Kosovo under UN administration. Slobodan Milosevic, by this time elected for the president of the federation, lost Federal elections in the fall of 2000 to Vojislav Kostunica. The country reestablished its membership in the OUN and started preparations to join the EU. In 2002, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro began negotiations to forge a looser relationship, which led first to the name change of the nation to "Serbia and Montenegro", then culminated in Montenegro declaring independence in June 2006. More recently Kosovo unilaterally declared its independence, however this act remains unrecognised by Serbia and some other countries.
Money
Serbia's official currency is the Serbian Dinar (RSD). The Serbian dinar can be exchanged in most of the banks throughout the Europe. However, it is best to convert at the airport (even though the rate there tends to be a bit higher) or in the banks located in the towns or in the numerous and visibly marked authorized exchange offices. Euro is occasionally being accepted, but prices are often overestimated when directly compared to the Dinar. Belgrade is typically on pair with many European cities prices, however, outside the capital prices of almost any item are lot lower when compared to the capital. Typically, 120 Dinars for a coke in a Belgrade bar, and 150 Dinars for 3 cokes in a bar outside the capital. On September 2009 the exchange rate stood at 63 Serbian Dinars for 1 US Dollar, and 93 Serbian Dinars for €1.
There are three mobile phone networks in Serbia: MTS, Telenor and Vip. Prepaid SIM cards cost 200 dinars. In Vip stores you can buy a Vip 226 (rebranded Sagem my220V) phone with prepaid SIM card for 1999 dinars.
Contact & location
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