Mountainous and green, carved by rapid streams, Bosnia and Herzegovina was the destination explored by Simona and Milos between 9 and 15 of May. Setting off in Sarajevo, they completed an impressive 912 km loop around the region. Awaiting them were interesting local initiatives developed with the help of the EU, as well as the fascinating history and culture of the region. During seven action-packed days on the road, our travellers learnt about the past, present and future of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Meet our Vloggers
Milos Kuzmanović
Miloš is a graduate student at the Faculty of Economics in Banja Luka. With a strong background in management, marketing, and entrepreneurship, he loves exploring new techniques for fostering growth and implementing good business plans. Moreover, participating in student exchange programs considerably improved his interpersonal skills and taught him quick problem-solving and task completion.
Simona Gavalcová
Simona is a keen traveller. Her involvement in environmental issues, interest in innovation but also love for traditional arts are reasons for joining this road trip. She sees it as an opportunity to promote positive change in the world. This desire also reflects in her professional life. Simona is a marketing specialist who helps a green-tech startup company implement circular economy principles.
Itinerary
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The diary
Ready or not, Bosnia and Herzegovina, here we come!
Today marks the beginning of our epic road trip through this incredible Balkanic region as part of the ‘Made of us’ campaign by WeBalkans! And to make things official, we started our day with a media brunch at Kutcha, a chic concept bar in the heart of Sarajevo, in the company of fellow travellers, ambassadors, and locals passionate about Bosnia and Herzegovina.
With a fresh dose of inspiration, we headed further to Media Bootcamp, where we enjoyed listening to a lecture about out-of-the-box thinking and discussing the campaign with a group of aspiring marketers and innovators.
And yes, time was somehow against us, and while we may have missed a cable car ride, nothing could stop us from enjoying the sunset over Sarajevo! But the day is far from over, as we are just heading to a concert by Helem Nejse and Zoster which we were graciously invited to!
Building a better future
Today, we embarked on a journey of discovery at the War Childhood Museum in Sarajevo, whose work has been supported by the EU on many occasions. There we explored an exhibition filled with stories of appreciation, love, friendship, and the harsh realities of war experienced by children. This initiative, started by Jasminko Halilovic and presented to us by Mia, has provided a platform for healing, sharing, and creating a community that extends far beyond the borders of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
And while we could spend hours at the museum, our responsibilities of the day were far from over. So we set off in the direction of Travnik, where we had the privilege of meeting Mr Miroslav Matosevic, the visionary behind The Old Rail Trail project. This remarkable initiative, supported by the EU, transformed an old rail into a bike route, connecting communities across five towns in the Central Bosnia Canton as the train used to in the olden days.
We are not made of sugar!
Waking up to the gentle sound of raindrops on our window sill, we knew the weather forecast had come true after all. But as it is said in Bosnia and Hercegovina: 'Nismo od šećera, nećemo se istopiti' (We are not made of sugar, we will not melt!) So we slipped into rainboots and ventured to enjoy breakfast with a view of Plivske lakes that will soon open for the season.
Jajce, the town we're staying in, is a haven of water features. Majestic waterfalls, picturesque lakes nestled amidst mountains, and charming fountains adorning every corner of the town square. The rain only added to the charm. And while we were completely soaked by the end of our tour, the experience was worth every drop!
Sailing against the current and searching for wild horses
Tour of the incredible Kastel Fortress, whose renovation was funded by the EU, and an exhilarating Dayak adventure! Not even thorough research could prepare us for the feeling as the wooden boat sailed against the powerful currents of the Vrbas River, powered solely by the sheer strength of its driver. A thrilling experience that can only be found in Banja Luka.
But the day had just begun as we hit the road again, embarking on a long journey to Livno and enjoying the scenic views. After leaving our luggage behind, we joined a thrilling jeep tour, traversing the stunning hills of Cincar in search of wild horses. After an hour of anticipation, our guide signalled and pointed to a horde of dozens of wild horses. Watching them in their natural habitat, witnessing their playful interactions, and even interacting with them was an incredible highlight of our lives.
If you want to see one of them almost biting off Milos' finger (yes, it happened!), don't forget to follow us on Instagram for more amazing updates and adventures!
(Don't) go chasing waterfalls!
We woke up in the morning, eager to jump into the crystal clear waters of the Kravica waterfall. But as we stepped outside, the reality hit us - the air was cold, and the sun was hiding behind the clouds. The determination to go for a swim vanished, and we found ourselves bundled up in jackets and sipping on warm drinks instead. Though, even the view of the waterfalls and the few souls that decided to dip in and try to handle the strong current was a great programme. It's a reminder that sometimes, even the best-laid plans can be foiled by unpredictable weather.
Breakfast with the view (of the Old Bridge)!
Waking up to yet another rainy morning in Mostar, one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we made the best of the weather and sought refuge in a café. With a steaming cup of traditional coffee in hand, we enjoyed a picturesque view of the famous Old Bridge. It was a cosy haven amidst the raindrops.
After breakfast, we strolled through the charming old town, meandering along the narrow streets and exploring the vibrant souvenir shops. And while there was one determined local claiming to be getting ready to jump from the Old Bridge, the preparation was a bit lengthy and it was time for us to hit the road again. We spent the rest of the day enjoying the scenic route to Foča.
The rainy farewell
As we made our way back to Sarajevo, we relished the final moments in this magnificent region. Wild rivers, lush landscapes, and charming villages passed by, while Bosnia and Herzegovina was bidding us farewell with gentle rain. Even Sarajevo greeted us with a veil of fog, signalling that it was time for coffee and shisha.
With only a few hours remaining before we embarked on our separate journeys, it didn't feel like a goodbye as we savoured the strong traditional coffee, reflecting on our road trip. It was bittersweet but we were grateful for the adventures, the stories we heard, the places we explored, and the memories we created along the way.
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