An Englishman in the Balkans

In this episode I talk to Martin Fletcher, a British traveler and podcaster who is currently on a journey through the Balkans in his van. Martin shares his experiences living the van life and traveling through Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as his plans to head to Turkey for the winter. We discuss Martin's reasons for choosing a nomadic lifestyle, his work as a digital nomad, and his adventures in various countries.During our conversation, we touch on topics like language barriers, local cuisine, interactions with people in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Martin's impressions of the country, which he had heard about during the conflict in the early '90s. We also explore Martin's interest in history and abandoned engineering, as well as his desire to explore more of the country on his way back north.The episode provides insights into Martin's nomadic lifestyle and his experiences in the Balkans, making it a fascinating listen for anyone interested in travel and adventure.Follow along with Martin's journey on his podcast, "All Points In Between," and stay tuned for more of his adventures in the Balkans and beyond.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this podcast.Stay tuned for more exciting stories and adventures from the Englishman in the Balkans podcast!Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at: https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at https://www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/

In this episode, join me as I explore the captivating journey of Helen Reynolds Brown, a British expat living in Belgium, who found her dream holiday home in the picturesque coastal region of Montenegro, near the ancient city of Kotor.Helen shares her incredible experiences, insights, and adventures in this enchanting Balkan paradise.Discover why Montenegro, with its stunning landscapes, diverse community, and unique charm, has stolen her heart.From the challenges of navigating the local culture to the joys of savouring Montenegrin cuisine, Helen's story provides a delightful glimpse into the allure of this hidden gem in the Western Balkans.If you've ever considered owning a holiday home abroad or simply want to explore the beauty of Montenegro through the eyes of an expat, this episode is a must-watch. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this podcast.Stay tuned for more exciting stories and adventures from the Englishman in the Balkans podcast!Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at: https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at https://www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/

Welcome, to a replay edition of the podcast, where we're taking a trip down memory lane to 3 years ago, when Tamara and I sat down to discuss a cherished tradition here in Bosnia and Herzegovina.Zimnica (or winter food).You can Download Tamara's Recipe HEREPreserving Tradition: Exploring Zimnica in Bosnia and HerzegovinaI’ve experienced this tradition since I got together with Tamara, so I thought I’d give a little backgrounder, some context if you will.Bosnia and Herzegovina is a land where history, culture, and culinary traditions converge. This particular tradition holds a special place in the hearts of Bosnians. "Zimnica," is a centuries-old practice of preserving seasonal fruits and vegetables to enjoy throughout the year. Zimnica is not just about food; it's a way of preserving the flavours and memories of what you have grown through the summer to savour during the cold winter months.A Glimpse into ZimnicaZimnica, which roughly translates to "winter provisions" in English, is a practice deeply rooted in Bosnian culture. As the summer months reach their peak, families across the country come together to harvest and preserve the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables that nature has bestowed upon them. From tomatoes and peppers to cucumbers, plums, and cherries, almost every fruit and vegetable imaginable finds its place in the jars of Zimnica.The Art of PicklingAt the heart of Zimnica lies the art of pickling. This ancient preservation technique involves immersing fruits and vegetables in a brine or vinegar solution (maybe with a little sugar too), which not only enhances their flavour but also extends their shelf life. Pickled vegetables such as cucumbers, peppers, and cabbage are a staple in Bosnian cuisine and find their way into dishes like Sarma (cabbage rolls).Ajvar: The Crown Jewel of ZimnicaOne cannot discuss Zimnica in Bosnia and Herzegovina without mentioning Ajvar. Often referred to as "Balkan salsa," Ajvar is a savoury condiment made primarily from roasted red peppers and eggplant. It's a labor-intensive process that begins with roasting peppers and eggplant over an open flame or in the oven, imparting a smoky flavour to the dish. After peeling and chopping, the vegetables are cooked with garlic, oil, and various spices, resulting in a rich and robust spread.Ajvar is versatile, serving as a dip, a condiment for grilled meats, or even as a sandwich spread. The annual tradition of making Ajvar brings families together, and each household has its own secret recipe, jealously guarded and passed down through generations.The Zimnica ExperienceThe process of preparing Zimnica is not just about food; it's a cultural experience that strengthens bonds within families and communities. It's a labor of love that requires teamwork and dedication. Families gather in kitchens and gardens, children learn the art of pickling from their elders, and stories are shared as the process unfolds.Preserving MemoriesZimnica is more than just jars filled with pickles. Opening a jar of Zimnica in the midst of winter is like opening a portal to those sun-kissed days of summer, a reminder of the joy and togetherness that define Bosnian culture.Zimnica Beyond Bosnia and HerzegovinaWhile Zimnica is a cherished tradition in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it also extends its influence beyond its borders. In neighbouring countries such as Serbia, Croatia, and Montenegro, similar practices exist under different names, but the essence remains the same. These countries share a deep connection to their agricultural heritage and a love for...

In this episode of we're delving into a topic that holds immense significance in the region: independent media in the Balkans. Joining me to discuss this is seasoned journalist, media analyst, and Balkans expert, Bojan Stojkovski.Bojan and I embark on a thought-provoking journey through the complex landscape of media independence in the Balkans. We delve deep into the challenges, triumphs, and unique circumstances that shape the media environment in this diverse and historically rich region.Bojan, who has spent years closely observing and reporting on media trends, begins by shedding light on the historical context that has contributed to the media landscape we see today. From the remnants of state-controlled media during the era of communism to the struggles faced during the Yugoslav Wars, Bojan paints a vivid picture of how the Balkan media sphere has evolved over the years.But what truly captures our attention is the exploration of independent media outlets that have emerged against all odds. Bojan shares inspiring stories of journalists, citizen reporters, and brave individuals who have defied challenges like censorship, political pressures, and economic instability to create platforms that voice the realities of their communities. We discuss how these outlets have tackled sensitive topics, bridging ethnic and cultural divides through their work.As we navigate through this conversation, we analyse the current state of independent media. Bojan brings to light the delicate balance between being truly independent and the financial constraints that often dictate the narratives. We discuss the dichotomy between traditional forms of media and the digital revolution, exploring whether the latter has truly democratised information or if it's just a new battleground for influence.Of course, no discussion about media independence is complete without addressing the role of social media in the Balkans. Bojan shares intriguing insights into how platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have become both catalysts for change and breeding grounds for misinformation. We delve into the phenomenon of echo chambers and how they impact public opinion, drawing parallels to similar trends on a global scale.Bojan also takes a moment to analyse the influence of foreign media in the region. We discuss the potential pros and cons of international media outlets' involvement in Balkan affairs, examining how they might contribute to a diverse media landscape or inadvertently amplify certain biases.But it's not all challenges and complexities. Bojan leaves us with stories of hope and innovation that demonstrate the resilience of Balkan journalists. From collaborative cross-border investigations to grassroots initiatives that empower local voices, we gain a glimpse into the bright spots that remind us of the potential for positive change.Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at anenglishmaninthebalkans.com

In this episode I give you a brief update about our return from our holiday in Montenegro.I post a weekly newsletter update on my substack and thought that maybe you might like to hear it as a podcast.Let me know what you think of that idea?Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at anenglishmaninthebalkans.com

This episode takes us from the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District in the United Kingdom to the rugged mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. I catch up with equine photographer Ruth Chamberlain, who last year (2022), embarked on a remarkable journey to document the captivating lives of the wild horses of Livno.I find out about how Ruth's made this unexpected connection to Bosnia and Herzegovina, fuelled by a chance encounter with a breathtaking photograph that led her on an unforgettable adventure. Ruth's passion for promoting rare and unique equine breeds shines through as she shares her experiences in the UK and abroad, shedding light on the intriguing history and relationships between people and horses.Ruth's journey took her through the Bosnian landscape, where she found out about the enchanting Livno horses and their role in the natural ecosystem, discovered the challenges and successes of preserving these magnificent creatures in their wild habitat, and explored the fascinating parallels between the Bosnian horses and other iconic equine herds around the world.Ruth provides insights into the impact of tourism on the Livno region and the delicate balance between sharing this hidden gem with the world and safeguarding its pristine environment. I talk to Ruth about the importance of responsible tourism and how it can contribute to the preservation of these remarkable wild herds.Find out More about Ruth at:https://ruthonthehoof.com/https://www.instagram.com/ruthonthehoof/"Our wonderful guide Silvija (@livnowildhorses) was fantastic, she showed us the whole area - from mountains to the history of the town. She was very generous and had such amazing knowledge! We encountered such lovely and wonderful people at every turn and they made the trip even more special. What an amazing place"Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at anenglishmaninthebalkans.com

Welcome to this final episode of our mini series about life in Croatia through the eyes of another Englishman, Mark Whitfield.This is the third instalment of a three-part series, where I’ll be finding out about . how difficult it is, or maybe not so, a business in Croatia.Mark gives some valuable insights into daily life living in the north of Croatia near the small town of Štrigova.You can find out more about Mark's Glamping business in Štrigova Croatia HERE.I hope that this micro-series will give let you experience another aspect of life for “foreigners” who choose to make this region their home.Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at anenglishmaninthebalkans.com

Welcome to "An Englishman in the Balkans," the podcast that aims to encourage people to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina. We talk to fascinating individuals not only from Bosnia and Herzegovina but also those who have come to this country or, like me, live here. Today, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Nadja Gydat, an extraordinary woman who hails from Switzerland but has now made Visoko, just outside Sarajevo, her home. Nadja is on the verge of launching a wool-based eco-product, and her journey to this point is as intriguing as her upcoming venture.Nadja describes herself as a real woman, a citizen of Europe, a mother to a few dogs, and someone born into a lineage of wise women who possess a unique gift passed down through generations. She is a believer in creating win-win situations in every aspect of life and sees herself as being on a journey to continuously expand her knowledge, spirituality, and understanding of people and mentalities.Her early life was anything but conventional, with parents who were ahead of their time and raised her with open-mindedness and an appreciation for diverse cultures. Growing up in Italy and Africa,Nadja was exposed to art, music, and different languages from an early age, shaping her curious and adventurous spirit.Despite finding success in the luxury PR industry, Nadja realized the glitzy lifestyle wasn't fulfilling her. It lacked authenticity and became too stressful due to external factors beyond her control.Feeling disconnected, she embarked on a quest to discover her true path.Nadja's journey led her to Visoko, Bosnia and Herzegovina, where she felt a strong connection with the energetic power of the pyramids and the abundance of negative ions in the tunnels. Prompted by a dream, she decided to make a life-changing move to Bosnia.Initially, Nadja planned to open a health resort but found herself drawn to the untapped potential of Bosnian wool. She fell in love with the material and decided to create a product series based on wool, promoting its ecological and sustainable qualities. She believes this venture will not only showcase Bosnian craftsmanship but also shine a light on the beauty and richness of Bosnia beyond its war-torn history.Nadja's bold move to Bosnia has been met with admiration and curiosity from her friends and associates in Switzerland. She hopes to inspire others to explore the country's opportunities and beauty and intends to become a commercial and touristic ambassador for Bosnia in the future.As we look forward to the launch of Nadja's eco-product line, she emphasizes the need to support young Bosnian entrepreneurs and give back to the community. She plans to become a business angel, supporting promising talents and projects.For those intrigued by Nadja's story and interested in her wool-based products, you can connect with her on Instagram. Nadja encourages fellow Bosnians from the diaspora to return to their homeland and contribute to its growth and development, highlighting the untapped potential within this beautiful country.Join us in celebrating Nadja's inspiring journey and be sure to check out her eco-product line as she showcases the beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina, both through her products and her passion for this remarkable nation. Let's all embark on this adventure together and discover the hidden gems that lie within Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In this episode of the podcast, ! we are delving into the vibrant world of folklore in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country where culture and tradition play an essential role in its identity. Dita Bajrami-Vrbanjac, the current Director of the folklore troupe based in Travnik, and passionate folklore enthusiast, explains the fascinating realm of Bosnian folklore.In Bosnia and Herzegovina, each major ethnic group has its unique way of portraying and preserving folklore, making it a colourful tapestry of tradition. Dita, shares her profound connection with folklore that dates back 34 years. From her first encounter with traditional dances, she has become an integral part of her group, currently involved in directing.The essence of Bosnian folklore lies in its ability to inspire and motivate, and for Dita, love is the driving force behind her dedication. The aspects of identity, expressed through traditional music, costumes, stories, and lyrics, are what fuel her passion to preserve and promote this cultural heritage.However, in the face of modern technologies and changing lifestyles, there are challenges to the continuation of folklore. Younger generations, engrossed in social media and digital distractions, are becoming less engaged with this rich tradition. Thus, there is a need to work on instilling the value of folklore in young minds, as it is essential for understanding one's roots and cultural heritage.Bosnian folklore is a unifying tradition that transcends ethnic boundaries. While there might be different ethnic groups, their folkloric traditions share common roots and elements, weaving together the diverse cultural fabric of Bosnia and Herzegovina.The preservation of traditional costumes, intricate and handmade, poses a challenge as fewer skilled artisans remain to pass on this invaluable knowledge. Once the older generation of skilled costume makers fades away, the future of these unique costumes may be at risk.Financial support is crucial in maintaining the cultural identity of the region. With government and local council funding, dance troupes can thrive and act as cultural ambassadors, showcasing Bosnian tradition to the world. Traveling to various locations and participating in folklore festivals helps to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the country.To encourage young individuals to actively participate in preserving and promoting folklore, Dita suggests joining a dance troupe or participating in activities that involve a team spirit. Such experiences not only provide opportunities to learn traditional dances but also instill valuable life skills and foster a sense of national pride.In the end, the future of Bosnian folklore lies in the hands of those who genuinely love and cherish this cultural treasure. As the torchbearers of tradition, it is their responsibility to ensure its preservation for generations to come.Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at: https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at https://www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

Welcome to this edition of "An Englishman in the Balkans," where I am continuing a micro-series about life in Croatia through the eyes of another Englishman, Mark Whitfield.This is the second instalment of a three-part series, where I’ll be finding out about . how difficult it is, or maybe not so, a business in Croatia.Mark gives some valuable insights and practical tips, of setting up a business in Croatia as well as anecdotes from his first two years as a business owner.You can find out more about Mark's Glamping business in Štrigova Croatia HERE.I hope that this micro-series will give let you experience another aspect of life for “foreigners” who choose to make this region their home.Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

Join me in this captivating episode as we delve into the fascinating world of self-sustainability in Bosnia and Herzegovina with Ivy Šibinčić. Ivy is at the forefront of the self-sustainability movement in her region, working tirelessly to empower local communities and promote eco-conscious practices.During this conversation, Ivy shares her personal journey and the challenges she faced while advocating for self-sustainability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ivy and her husband Slaven, have been actively involved in projects that transform communities and promote self-reliance.We explore the transformative impact of sustainable practices on the local economy and the environment, and how these efforts are shaping a greener, more resilient future for Bosnia and Herzegovina.Find out more about Ivy on Instagram HEREListen to a previous podcast episode featuring Ivy HEREYou can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

In this episode, David goes on a mesmerising journey to the charming town of Travnik in central Bosnia and Herzegovina. This time he travels solo, leaving behind Tamara, and shares the wonders he encounters along the way.Travelling by bus through the scenic landscape of Bosnia, David provides essential tips for those eager to explore this beautiful country. Passing through the spectacular canyon south of Banja Luka and its breathtaking views, David creates a virtual tour filled with nature's wonders.Upon arriving in Travnik, David meets his host, Ben, who dreams of transforming Travnik into a top tourist destination. With Ben's guidance, David discovers the hidden gems of the town, exploring the picturesque Vlašić mountain, witnessing sheep shearing, and buying fresh Vlašić cheese.However, David's true passion lies in the town's history and culture. Meeting an extraordinary tour guide, Dita Bajrami-Vrbanjac, reveals the rich tapestry of Travnik's past, from the Ottoman Empire to Austro-Hungarian rule. The streets come alive with captivating stories, immersing David in a world of centuries-old history.Travnik, the heartbeat of Bosnia and Herzegovina, captures David's heart. The town's delectable cuisine and passionate residents make it more than just a location on a map; it becomes a soulful experience.Until next time, Vidimo se opet!"(Note: "Vidimo se opet" means "See you again" in Bosnian.)

Hello and welcome to the podcast, where in this episode we look at the legacy of a group of some 55 Italian families that came to the village of Mahovljani back in the late eighteen hundreds.Today all that remains of that Italian influence is its church, high on the hill, vineyards that those settlers founded (and by the way are still harvested and turned into wine), and families with both Italian first and second names.Many years ago I heard about this small former colony near where I have lived for nearly 20 years.I have been intrigued ever since. So, to my surprise and by pure chance, I bumped into one of the descents of one of the Italian families, Guilia, and asked her if she could tell me more about her community.She agreed, and so we met her, and her family, at the Italian church on the hill, looking down on the Vrbas valley, just like her ancestors must have done on their arrival over 140 years ago. It’s quite the story.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

Welcome to this edition of "An Englishman in the Balkans," where I am starting a micro-series about life in Croatia through the eyes of another Englishman, Mark Whitfield.This is the first instalment of a three-part series, where I’ll be finding out about . Marks decision to make Croatia his new home, learning about the intricacies of setting up a business in Croatia, with some valuable insights and practical tips, and hearing Marks anecdotes from his first two years as a business owner.You can find out more about Mark's Glamping business in Štrigova Croatia HERE.I hope that this micro-series will give let you experience another aspect of life for “foreigners” who choose to make this region their home.Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

Welcome to another episode of "An Englishman in the Balkans Podcast," where we traverse the rich cultural landscape of the Western Balkans.In this edition, recorded outside in our garden here in the village of Čardačani, I sit down with the incredibly talented Jelisaveta Gluvić-Wragg, a classically trained violinist, who has embarked on a remarkable musical odyssey that took her abroad and brought her back home.In this intimate conversation, Jelisaveta shares the transformative experience of studying abroad and how immersing herself in diverse cultural settings shaped her musical sensibilities. Deciding to return to her homeland, Jelisaveta opens up about the pull of her roots and the sense of responsibility she feels toward her community. She shares her vision of contributing to the flourishing music scene in Bosnia and Herzegovina, fostering artistic growth, and inspiring the next generation of musicians.You'll also here "village sounds" during the podcast, I hope that makes you smile?Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

Where have I been for the past two months of not posting a podcast episode?In this episode I bring you up to date an recent events and what you can expect going forward.As an English language podcaster in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I sometimes feel like an outsider, but it also gives me a unique perspective to share with my audience. Living in a small village like Čardačani allows me to experience the local culture, traditions, and challenges firsthand.Through our podcast, we aim to bridge the gap between different cultures and shed light on the beauty and complexities of life in the Balkans. We want to challenge stereotypes and showcase the resilience, creativity, and warmth of the people we encounter.One of the aspects we are particularly passionate about is highlighting the untold stories of individuals who have overcome adversity or made a significant impact in their communities. By sharing these inspiring narratives, we hope to inspire our listeners and create a sense of connection and understanding.Our focus moving forward is on quality over quantity. We want to ensure that each piece of content we create is meaningful, informative, and engaging. This approach allows us to maintain our enthusiasm and provide our audience with valuable experiences and insights.We are also exploring collaborations with other content creators and experts in various fields. By joining forces, we can pool our knowledge and resources to create even more impactful and diverse content. We believe that collaboration is key to fostering a sense of unity and expanding our reach.In the coming months, we have planned interviews with local artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. We want to showcase the vibrant cultural scene in the region and highlight the initiatives that are driving positive change.Additionally, we will continue to document our own experiences, whether it's exploring new hiking trails, attending cultural events, or participating in community activities. By sharing these personal anecdotes, we hope to provide a glimpse into the daily life and adventures of an Englishman in the Balkans.We are grateful for the support and feedback we have received from our listeners thus far. It motivates us to keep pushing forward and improving our content. We encourage everyone to stay tuned and be part of our journey as we navigate the ever-changing podcasting landscape and continue to share stories from this fascinating corner of the world.Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at:https://an-englishman-in-the.captivate.fm/supportGet full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

In this episode I’m sat in the reception area of the Marriott hotel in downtown Banja Luka. Why? Because at the moment the first ATP 250 Tennis Tournament is under way in Banja Luka.This tournament is also called the Srpska Open, as Banja Luka is in the entity of Republika Srpska.I have managed to get to talk to David Sammel the coach of British player Liam Broady.I find out about tournament life, how a coach motivates and supports his player, the importance of mind-set and much more.🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans 🇧🇦 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.Get full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Podcast, I talk to Nebojša Ruzicic from The Banja Luka Dajak Club and take a Deep Dive into an aspect of the rich cultural heritage of Banja Luka, the second city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Nebojša is an expert on the traditional Dajak boats, a unique watercraft used by the people of Banja Luka for centuries. We'll be discussing the history of the Dajak, I get a unique chance to see where the Dajaks are made and how they are built, plus anecdotes galore.So join me for a fascinating conversation about preserving traditional crafts and activities in the region, which ,sadly, are under threat.🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans 🇧🇦 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.Get full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

In This Episode of the podcast I have the pleasure of speaking with Nermin Numić, the co-owner and founder of a travel agency in Sarajevo called Ćejf, which is based on this very concept. “Numa” (thats his nickname) explained that the word Ćejf is derived from the Arabic word kayf, which means pleasure. It's a way of life that is all about finding pleasure in the small things.What's unique about Ćejf is that it's deeply personal and individual. Everyone has their own definition of what brings them pleasure and what makes them happy. In Sarajevo, where Numa is from, Ćejf is a way of life that is respected and cherished by everyone. If someone is enjoying their own personal Ćejf, like smoking a cigarette or sipping on a cup of coffee, it's respected by others and not disrupted.The concept of Ćejf is more than just living in the moment or enjoying life's pleasures. It's a way of life that is deeply ingrained in the culture of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's a reminder to slow down and appreciate the little things in life that can bring us joy and happiness. It's about taking the time to connect with others over a cup of coffee or a meal and enjoying their company.🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans 🇧🇦 is a reader-supported publication.Get full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

In This Episode.In this episode of the podcast I talk to Ramajana Mabita, originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina but presently living in Harare in Zimbabwe.I find out what, if any, similarities there are between the two countries, Ramajana’s culture shocks, her love of Zimbabwean fashion and also hear one of her favourite music tracks from this African nation, plus much more.🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans 🇧🇦 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.Get full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans 🇧🇦 at www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe