Coffee and Rakija

In this video, I visit my neighbour to see the process of butchering, jointing, and preparing a large pig for various uses like salting, drying, smoking, and making sausages. I'll show you around my neighbour's smallholding, explain the cultural significance, and share insights into the local way of life. This is a candid look at rural living, as well as some tips for experiencing Bosnia off the beaten path. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, I share another glimpse of my life, this time during the first real snowfall of the winter.I’ll be talking about:Environmental challenges, including heavy snow, strong winds, and torrential rain, and their impacts on us such as power outages. A bit about our rural lifestyle, especially what its like living with a wood-heated home.Local food traditions, like pig slaughtering for winter food. The benefits and challenges of living in Bosnia, such as the lower cost of living, friendly locals, and the significance of learning at least some of the local language. I have decided to produce more “walk-and-talk”, storytelling podcasts, providing a personal account of my experiences, that I hope you will find interesting and engaging. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

In this video, I address a common question from my viewers:/readers/listeners, “what does it cost to live in Bosnia and Herzegovina?” I take a shallow dive into the expenses you'll encounter, from rent and utilities to groceries and entertainment, and compare them with Western standards. A budget of $5,000 a month is more than enough to live comfortably here, even lavishly by local standards. I discuss the average local income, the affordability of various necessities, and the pros and cons of living in cities versus rural areas. Whether you're considering a move or just curious, this video will give you a clear picture of life in Bosnia. Find Out More Details of the Cost of Living in Bosnia and Herzegovina. https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/banja-luka Support Me with Buying Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/davidbailey

In this episode, I dive into the topic of safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I'll discuss everything from low crime rates and local hospitality to the remnants of the war and natural hazards. Whether you're a solo traveler or planning a holiday, you'll find practical tips to ensure a safe trip. Plus, I'll debunk common myths about Bosnia being dangerous due to past conflicts. Hopefully you'll get a genuine feel for this beautiful, safe country straight from someone who calls it home.

In this video, I dive into the topic of safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I'll discuss everything from low crime rates and local hospitality to the remnants of the war and natural hazards. Whether you're a solo traveler or planning a holiday, you'll find practical tips to ensure a safe trip. Plus, I'll debunk common myths about Bosnia being dangerous due to past conflicts. Hopefully you’ll get a genuine feel for this beautiful, safe country straight from someone who calls it home. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

What is 'Promaja' and Why is it So Important in the Balkans? Navigating Cultural Drafts: Zrak and Promaja Explained In this video I share my experiences with local customs in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly the concepts of 'zrak' and 'promaja.' As someone over 70, adapting to these cultural nuances is both amusing and perplexing. I discuss the tradition of airing out homes in the morning and the age-old warning against drafts, which apparently can make you sick. As I reflect on these cultural differences, I invite you to share your own funny stories about promaja. It's a beautiful sunny Sunday, and I hope this video finds you well. Stay safe, and I'll see you again soon!

If you didn't already know, I am David, a 71-year-old British expat living in Bosnia and Herzegovina.I have launched this extra podcast to share my thoughts on aging, my life adventures, and focusing on candid storytelling rather than polished, edited videos. I'm inviting you to follow my journey, offering insights into my life as an "older expat" in a foreign culture.Navigating Cultural Drafts: Zrak and Promaja ExplainedIn this episode, I share my experiences with local customs in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly the concepts of 'zrak' and 'promaja.' As someone over 70, adapting to these cultural nuances is both amusing and perplexing. I discuss the tradition of airing out homes in the morning and the age-old warning against drafts, which apparently can make you sick. As I reflect on these cultural differences, I invite you to share your own funny stories about promaja. It's a beautiful day outside, and I hope this video finds you well.00:00 Introduction and Cultural Context 00:37 The Concept of 'Zrak' 00:57 Morning Routine and Airing the House 02:18 Understanding 'Promaja' 02:45 Cultural Beliefs and Personal Reflections 04:16 Generational Differences and Humour 05:30 Conclusion and Call for Stories.Your feedback means the world to me. I genuinely enjoy reading and responding to your comments, as it keeps the conversation alive. If you found this post valuable, hitting the 🧡 or sharing it helps it reach more readers. Thank you for your support!📈 The Survey 📊I have a short survey designed to improve my Substack. It would be super helpful if you could find under 5 minutes to complete it. Thanks so much in advance.And FinallyDon’t forget that you can read back editions of the Digital Magazine, listen to previous podcasts (we have quite an archive now), or catch other content, all this is available on the web interface, just like a regular blog.Tamara and I appreciate your faithful support, your comments, and your generosity! Until next time.THANKS SO MUCH ❤️ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to this special episode of Coffee and Rakija, I'm David, sharing my experiences as a 71-year-old British expat in northern Bosnia and Herzegovina. On World Podcast Day, I reflect on the power of podcasting, storytelling, and embracing the unfamiliar. I discuss why I started my podcast, its evolution towards a narrative style, and the rich cultural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite challenges, podcasting has been a medium for growth, connection, and sharing the unique adventure of living in the Balkans. I encourage everyone to share their stories, as you never know who you might inspire.

Celebrating World Podcast Day. Welcome to a very special episode of Coffee and Rakija.I’m David, an Englishman in the Balkans, and today I’m speaking to you from my garden. It’s the 30th of September, a significant day for podcasters around the world. “World Podcast Day”. We have blue skies here, but it’s chilly, and Predrag (Tamara’s father), is busy cutting back the grass. We’re getting ready for autumn. There are still some grapes to pick, possibly for some loza (grappa), but that’s a story for another day. Today, podcasters globally share their stories, voices, and experiences, and I’m contributing my little piece from a rural village in northern Bosnia and Herzegovina.As we celebrate World Podcast Day, I encourage anyone thinking of starting a podcast or considering sharing their story in any form to take the leap.The Passion of PodcastingPodcasting has become my passion. Over the years, it has evolved and significantly shaped how I share my experiences of living abroad, discovering new cultures, and navigating life after seventy. It’s an incredible medium that gives voices to people like me who might otherwise lack a platform. I started podcasting not just to be another tourist guide to Bosnia and Herzegovina. While it’s a breathtaking country filled with rich history and incredible food, I wanted to delve deeper through Coffee and Rakija. I aim to share the everyday life of living in the Balkans as a foreigner, complete with all its quirks, surprises, and connections.The Power of StorytellingToday, I want to talk about three things: 1. The power of storytelling in podcasting.2. Why embracing the unfamiliar can be life-changing.3. How podcasting can help us find meaning in even the smallest moments of our lives. My podcast mirrors my life, a collection of moments, both big and small. Moments like moving to Bosnia over 22 years ago to the simple daily routines like walking around the village, waking up to church bells, and watching my neighbours go about their day. These moments come together to form stories, and I believe that’s what podcasting is about. It offers a space to connect through stories, whether from busy cities or remote villages, with millions of listeners or just a few.Embracing the UnfamiliarOne of my favourite parts of my podcast is introducing listeners to the rich cultural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina. From the street art in Banja Luka to the flavour of Ćevap in Sarajevo, or the tranquility of driving across the Krajina region. Beyond that, I explore what it means to live here as someone who wasn’t born here: the language barriers, cultural differences, moments of confusion that turn into understanding. Trust me, living in a different culture is an adventure with its challenges, especially now at my age. But it’s the excitement of the unfamiliar that makes it worthwhile, and podcasting has given me a platform to share this adventure with those who feel like they are navigating unfamiliar territories in their personal lives, careers, or physical spaces.Finding Meaning in Small MomentsRecently, in Coffee and Rakija, I’ve pivoted towards more narrative-style episodes, exploring life here in greater depth. After years of podcasting, it was time for a change. To bring more stories, more personality, more of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s essence into each episode. This change has brought me closer to my listeners, for which I am incredibly grateful. It’s not just about telling my story but also those around me, from locals in Čardačani to fellow travellers and expats I meet along the way.A Final ThoughtBefore wrapping up, I wanted to leave you with a final thought. Podcasting has given me a new lens through which I view the world. At 71, I’ve seen a lot, trust me. But the beauty of podcasting is that it allows me to keep learning, growing, and sharing, which I believe is something we should all embrace no matter where we are in life. As we celebrate World Podcast Day, I encourage anyone thinking of starting a podcast or considering sharing their story in any form to take the leap. You never know who might be listening or who you might inspire with your words. Predrag is still working, and it’s really chilly now, so I’m heading back inside to warm up. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Whether you’re tuning in from Bosnia, the UK, or somewhere else around the world, I’m grateful you’re here. Until the next episode of Coffee and Rakija, here’s to many more stories shared over a cup of coffee, (or tea if you’re in the UK), and if you drink alcohol, perhaps a wee swig of whiskey or your drink of choice. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

Understanding 'Veze' in Bosnia - A Foreigner's PerspectiveIn this episode, I delve into the concept of 'Veze' – a critical social structure in Bosnia and Herzegovina based on connections and relationships.I share my personal experiences as a foreigner navigating this system and reflect on how it contrasts with cultural norms from the United Kingdom.From my early days running a media project in 1998 to my present life here, I discuss the integral role of connections in everyday Bosnian life and how it influences family, business, and even politics.Hopefully it will give you an insight into this unique cultural aspect and how it has shaped my life in Bosnia over the past 22 years. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

Understanding 'Veze' in Bosnia - A Foreigner's Perspective In this episode, I delve into the concept of 'Veze' – a critical social structure in Bosnia and Herzegovina based on connections and relationships. I share my personal experiences as a foreigner navigating this system and reflect on how it contrasts with cultural norms from the United Kingdom. From my early days running a media project in 1998 to my present life here, I discuss the integral role of connections in everyday Bosnian life and how it influences family, business, and even politics. Hopefully it will give you an insight into this unique cultural aspect and how it has shaped my life in Bosnia over the past 22 years. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:33 Cultural Expectations and Misconceptions 01:44 Understanding the Concept of Veze 03:31 Personal Experiences with Veze 05:50 Veze in Society and Politics 07:04 Building Connections as a Foreigner 08:35 Reflections on Corruption and Cultural Differences 09:47 Historical Context of Veze 1 1:00 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement. Your feedback means the world to me. I genuinely enjoy reading and responding to your comments, as it keeps the conversation alive. If you found this post valuable, hitting the 🧡 or sharing it helps it reach more readers. Thank you for your support!

Living in another Culture. In this episode, I share my personal journey of living in Bosnia and Herzegovina for over 22 years. I talk about my fascination with experiencing new cultures and how it contrasts with the experiences of other expats from the UK and the US. Despite being deeply rooted in my British heritage, I have embraced local customs without trying to impose my own culture. I also discuss my unique 'in-betweener' status and reflect on the cultural identity challenges that come with long-term relocation. Join me as I explore the joys and struggles of adapting to a new way of life while still holding on to my British roots. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:19 Expat Experiences and Cultural Adaptation 02:19 Personal Journey to Bosnia and Herzegovina 03:22 Cultural Observations and Adaptations 04:54 Tourism and Cultural Imposition 09:10 Reflections on Identity and Belonging 13:14 Conclusion our feedback means the world to me. I genuinely enjoy reading and responding to your comments, as it keeps the conversation alive. If you found this post valuable, hitting the 🧡 or sharing it helps it reach more readers. Thank you for your support!

In this episode, I share my personal journey of living in Bosnia and Herzegovina for over 22 years. I talk about my fascination with experiencing new cultures and how it contrasts with the experiences of other expats from the UK and the US. Despite being deeply rooted in my British heritage, I have embraced local customs without trying to impose my own culture. I also discuss my unique 'in-betweener' status and reflect on the cultural identity challenges that come with long-term relocation. Join me as I explore the joys and struggles of adapting to a new way of life while still holding on to my British roots. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

Discover Bosnia: Must-Read Books on Historical ConflictIn this episode I recommend four impactful books about the country's tragic conflict in the early 1990’s.Starting with 'Klaonica,' a collection of emotional poems.'Welcome to Sarajevo' by Michael Nicholson.'In Harm's Way' by Martin Bell.and 'To End a War' by Richard Holbrooke.These books provide deep context and understanding of the Bosnian conflict.I also talk about and emphasise the importance of avoiding political discussions as a foreigner. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I share my personal journey and insights on the healthcare system in Bosnia and Herzegovina. My personal experience, includes treatment for a serious ankle injury and a urinary tract infection, both of which I used a mixture of state and private healthcare. I tell you about the improvements in the medical infrastructure over the years there’s some advice for those considering visiting or living in Bosnia. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, (minus the tea), I dive into the journey you might take if you are considering retiring here. This episode was spurred on by a question from our previous video from a follower who lives in Houston, Texas. I look at the various ways you might be able to retire here whether it's through setting up a business, buying property, or getting married.I also explain the 90 in 180 days visa rule, and give some of my personal encounters and tips. Finally I’ll talk about the health care system, local culture, benefits of living here, and the welcoming nature of Bosnia Herzegovina thats made my retirement enjoyable. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I touch on a myriad of topics, from the warm reception of my previous video to more personal reflections as I enter the 'third act' of my life. I delve into a pressing issue close to my heart: the plight of stray dogs in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Discover the journey of rescuing four abandoned puppies, the challenges in finding shelters, and the broader societal attitudes towards animals here. Don’t forget to check out the blog for more details. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

If you didn't already know, I am David, a 71-year-old British expat living in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I returned to YouTube after a three-month hiatus, to relaunch my channel, sharing my thoughts on aging, my life adventures, and focusing on candid storytelling rather than polished, edited videos.I’m posting these episodes here, 4 days earlier than on YouTube, for Paid Members of “Coffee and Rakija”.I'm inviting you to follow my journey, offering insights into my life as an "older expat" living in a foreign culture. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

Tamara and I catch up after a few weeks, discussing life in Čardačani, coping with the recent heatwaves and storms, and looking at our new air conditioning setup. We look back at our trip to Belgrade and about friends visiting from Germany and guests from Slovenia. Theres an update from the garden and our future travel plans to the island of Rab on the Croatian coast. We also talk about the uptake of foreigners buying property in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anenglishmaninthebalkans.substack.com/subscribe