The beautiful, strong and simply charming country of Bosnia and Herzegovina does not enjoy the special favor of Russian and foreign tourists, and perhaps that is why it retains its charm. Its ski resorts, pure nature and historical monuments are now more accessible than ever, thanks to a favorable visa regime and a calm internal political situation. In a word, Bosnia and Herzegovina is an excellent option for a vacation or even a weekend trip to neighboring countries.
Geography of Bosnia and Herzegovina
According to collegesanduniversitiesinusa, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a union state located in the center of the Balkan Peninsula. It is washed by the Adriatic Sea, however, its coastline is small – only 24.5 kilometers. It borders with Croatia in the north and west, with Serbia in the east, with Montenegro in the southeast. The total area of the country is 51,000 km², it includes the historical region of Bosnia (the Sava river valley), as well as Herzegovina (the Neretva river basin). Almost the entire country lies on the territory of the Dinaric Highlands, the highest point is Mount Maglich (2386 meters above sea level).
Capital
Sarajevo
Area
The area of Bosnia is 51,197 km. sq., occupies the 128th place in the world by area.
Population
3 791 622
Currency
The national currency is the Convertible Mark (BAM).
Language
Official language – Bosnian dialect of Serbo-Croatian, Serbian, Croatian
Visa to Bosnia and Herzegovina
Visa conditions of Bosnia and Herzegovina have recently become extremely pleasant and convenient for Russians. Russian citizens are now allowed visa-free entry into the country for up to 30 days. All you need is a foreign passport valid for the duration of your stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Immigration officers also have the right to demand from the tourist a return ticket, medical insurance covering 30 thousand euros, as well as confirmation of financial solvency, but in fact this does not happen at all. A small clarification: staying in the country in a visa-free regime is allowed for a maximum of 30 days within 60 days from the date of first entry. To obtain a visa to Bosnia and Herzegovina, if you plan to stay in the country longer, you need to contact the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Moscow.
Weather in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The climate of Bosnia and Herzegovina is temperate continental, extremely pleasant for year-round tourism; summers are not too hot and winters are not very frosty. The maximum temperature in July in the cities is +27ºС, at the same time in the mountains – +10…+20ºС. In winter, in January, the thermometer does not drop below -10ºС, but as a rule it stays within -5ºС… 0 ºС. From November to April, there is a dense layer of snow in the mountains, which is an excellent bonus for lovers of skiing. The peak of such sports tourism falls on the period from December to February, while lovers of excursions and more relaxing outdoor recreation should visit Bosnia and Herzegovina from May to September, this is the most pleasant time.
Currency exchange in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The local currency in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the convertible mark (“BAM”), but euros are accepted almost everywhere, even in small shops and gas stations. You can exchange dollars and other currencies at bank branches, exchange offices and a number of large hotels. For the reverse exchange of stamps for euros, be sure to keep all receipts for the original currency exchange. It will not be difficult to cash out a Mastercard or Visa bank card in Sarajevo and other tourist cities, while it is better to go to other places with cash. Bank branches are open in Bosnia and Herzegovina from Monday to Friday from 8 am to 7 pm, weekends are Saturday and Sunday.
Electricity
Mains voltage 220V, 50Hz. Sockets are standard European (type C) with two round pins, type F is less common, the same as European ones, but with grounding plates at the top and bottom. In winter, especially in provincial towns, power outages often occur, most hotels are ready for this in advance and have autonomous generators.
Religion
The religion of the inhabitants of Bosnia and Herzegovina is directly related to their national identity, as Serbs are Orthodox (31% of the total population of the country), Croats are Catholics (15%). Local Muslim Bosnians make up 40%, calling themselves none other than “Bosnians” or “Muslims”. Not so long ago, a civil war ignited on religious grounds ended in Bosnia and Herzegovina, now religious communities are divided and live separately, calmly and almost autonomously. Do not start talking about religion with the locals.
Security
Despite the fact that not so long ago a civil war raged in the country, now Bosnia and Herzegovina is a safe place for foreign tourists. The crime rate here is extremely low, however, you should not provoke anyone: leave valuables and large sums of money in a hotel safe, pay only after receiving the service, and also do not start discussions on religious and financial topics. The Bosnian war is still echoing in the life of the country. If you are planning to rent a car or other transport – move only along the roads and do not leave them, there are still many minefields in the province. While driving, be extremely careful – many roads in the country are laid in the mountains and require utmost care.
Health
Before traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is not necessary to do any special vaccinations, but having international insurance will save you strength and money in the event of a medical event. Use only bottled water for drinking.
