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14 August 2019 0

People worldwide know Turkey for its fierce and ruthless empire that spread its dominant demeanor over the Balkans and beyond. I knew Turkey as only a dish we prepared for our Thanksgiving dinner until I was twelve. I KNOW – Embarrassing! Here in Prudhoe Bay – Alaska, however, people rarely talk about Turkey or Balkans or any place that’s far away from the scope of what you teach a child until they are old enough to go to school. When I became interested and delved into Geography and History (aside from being obligatory subjects in school), I was convinced that Turkey is a nice place for an adventurist soul like me. Years went by, I switched jobs, finished school got my Master’s degree and I figured it is time for me to take a breather and travel a bit. This is how I decided to visit Turkey! I am no hippie, but my backpack and my traveling spirit – really matched one. I hopped on a cheap flight, switched two planes, and arrived in Istanbul. DARN IT – SO MANY PEOPLE! The streets are flooded with artisanal shops, street food, and other traditional shops with unique amenities. The hotel I was staying at was really close to the city center (or so I thought since everything in Istanbul seemed a city center to me LOL!). I enjoyed delicious Turkish breakfast at a local café regularly, sipped many cups of Turkish coffee, indulged into walking the streets of both the humble and the opulent and let my eyes wander the details of the ancient architecture around the city. Probably the only time in my life I will see, as many Mosques in one place at a time will be Istanbul. Astonishing architecture and marvelous interiors. Will probably get back again, once I fill my pocket with more money to travel around the other part of the Balkans as well. Görüşürüz Turkey – you left a beautiful mark in me!   Photography credits: Dhurata Halimi Author: Diar Ramadani

23 July 2019 0

As I was waiting for my souvlaki to arrive at the table, I started making plans on visiting some destinations around Thessaloniki. A drink and the view of the blue waters of Greece accompanied my agenda. My experience in Thessaloniki is one of a kind.  I understand that the cultural heritage of this country is one of a kind also. Having visited many museums, churches, and bays, I can say that for every tourist who enjoys an ancient culture – Greece is the place to be. My trip started with the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, where I witnessed the remains of the ancient land. The War Museum of Thessaloniki reenacted the history in front of my eyes like I was watching a play at a theatre. I continued my trip to the Jewish Museum and the Olympic Museum, where I witnessed the Holocaust’s impact and the sports heritage of Greece in the later. Hagia Sophia of Thessaloniki is a historic and iconic cathedral with mesmerizing paintings and mosaics inside that left a mark in me as a future artist. St Catherine Church was a dream for photography taking and so was the Church of St. Paul. Finally, the Byzantine Museum was my last resort as this Greek trip ended. Visit Greece, and most importantly – Be in Balkan, for this peninsula offers astonishing attractions.   Photography Credits: Vlerë Januzi Author: Diar Ramadani

10 May 2019 0

Blog #1 Visiting Albania I have often had trouble finding myself a great place to visit.  However, I knew I wanted to visit a country in the Balkans. I had lived in Northern Carolina for so long, visited a myriad of places, but nothing had grasped me quite like Europe- and I still have not visited some regions there. While surfing on the internet, when searching Visit the Balkans, numerous people suggested I visit this European Gem called Albania. With a beautiful coastline, great nature composition proclaimed friendly people and amazing traditional food was all a tourist could ask for. So, I decided to give it a shot. I had 4 days to spend there, but I can easily say those were the days I still remember. My hippie look, my alpine backpack, and my pale skin took me places. Bars, Clubs, and the beaches during the day were a marvelous experience. Food was exceptional, and the people “OH MY GOSH, THE PEOPLE WERE FRIENDLY AF”. Hence, if you have any plans on what to visit in the Balkans- I highly suggest visiting Albania. xoxo!   Blog#2 Albania is the new Maldives Y’all!!!! Dhermia, Vlora, Saranda, Ksamil, and Gjipe are the new Maldives. I came all the way from Poland, and I was not disappointed. Had a relaxing break, near the troubled blue sea and the restless skies. I am totally coming back in Albania. Shihemi se shpejti!   Blog #3 The land of the Eagles It was often brought to my attention that Albania was called the Land of the Eagles. I do understand now, after visiting this country that this moto represents the bravery, ancient history, sharpness of culture and the amazing endeavors Albanians are known for. I love this country, so cheap for tourists, full of delicious meals, amazing restaurants, beautiful architecture and friendly people. I highly suggest everyone to visit Albania – because my next summer vacation is surely going to be the city of southern Albania, Saranda. Author: Diar Ramadani

10 May 2019 0

Blog #1 Visit Macedonia I have visited Macedonia in August of 2018 and have enjoyed every minute spent there. It is an amazing place, especially the city of Skopje. I was stunned by how many statues the city center has, which makes it such a unique trek. I also tasted Tetovo and Gostivar’s traditional Burek, which is a type of dish made of dough and stuffing, which I miss having it for lunch now. I am definitely getting back to visit more of Macedonia, and this time I want to see the Ohrid Lake. I want to sail there and enjoy the breeze, alongside the breathtaking views of surrounding mountains. Visit Macedonia at any time because I am sure the beauty will remain intact during all seasons.   Blog #2 Ohrid, the gem of Macedonia Recently, in my bucket-list, I ticked Ohrid. The gem of the Macedonia, Ohrid, is one of the largest and most famous places in Macedonia blessed with a beautiful lake. This city, besides the lake, has pleasing views, historical monuments, and colorful cultural heritage. It really left a mark for good in me, and I believe everyone should visit Macedonia, especially this city.   Blog #3 When I planned to visit the Balkans, I had no idea where to go first. I read an article online which suggested to visit Macedonia among other countries. I spent 5 days around Macedonia, visiting its capital city, Skopje, and also a lot of other cities. What I would distinguish as an impactful city, is the city of Bitola. Deemed as the city of Consuls, one of the oldest cities of Macedonia, Bitola, was formerly noted for its monastery. It’s a more religious city in terms of its heritage and geographically located in the southeastern part of Macedonia. Temperatures are mild humid and nature flourishes in the very warm summers, and I heard it wears a cute white dress in the snowy winters. Visit Bitola for a breathtaking trek. Author: Diar Ramadani

20 July 2018 0

February 7th, 1984, a morning before the Opening of the 14th Winter Olympic Games, was a sunny day with no signs of snow. Not a single flake! Bosnia and Herzegovina, as a part of the Yugoslavia back then, was the first socialist country to be selected as a host of the Olympic Games at that time. All committee and stuff members along with citizens, who felt great pride, were now struck by disappointment. The media, the athletes, the world all had their eyes on Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Then on the eve before the Opening, snow started falling covering mountains, hills and houses. With this splendid natural surprise, Games started off as what will later become the legacy of Bosnia and Herzegovina as being an outstanding host of many sports and cultural events to follow. Once again, Bosnia and Herzegovina is embracing its Olympic spirit. The largest sport festival for young athletes between 14 and 18 years old, the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) is taking place in Sarajevo in 2019. The winter edition of the festival which features a multi-sport event will gather young athletes from over 50 countries. The Organization Committee is taking all the steps for the preparation and the Olympic atmosphere has already begun spreading throughout the country.