Kosovo

The Republic of Kosovo is a partially recognised state in Southeast Europe, located in the Balkan Peninsula. Its declaration of independence from Serbia in 2008 is a matter of ongoing international debate. Pristina is the capital and largest city, a dynamic centre of growth. Kosovo observes Central European Time (CET), GMT+1, and Central European Summer Time (CEST), GMT+2 during daylight saving. The country is a young country with more than 70% of the population below 35 years old.

Kosovar cuisine is a hearty and flavourful blend of influences from its neighbours, including Albanian, Serbian, Turkish, and Mediterranean traditions. The major features of the cuisine are meat and seafood.  Burek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, is a popular snack. Kebabs and some Turkish-style food can also be found. While local wine production is present, raki, a potent fruit brandy, is a traditional alcoholic beverage. Yoghurt is an integral part of daily life.

Kosovo's dramatic landscape offers diverse opportunities for outdoor pursuits. Hiking, paragliding and some winter sports are fun to engage in during your visit. Hiking trails like the Via Dinarica and Peaks of the Balkans are hiking destinations that bring in an influx of tourists every year.

Kosovo is a nation enclosed in mountains with caves, rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. The Sharr Mountains at the border of Macedonia, the limestone caves in Gadimlje and Mirusha-Canyon, and the waterfalls, among others, testify to the pure nature Kosovo is blessed with.

Kosovo celebrates various cultural and historical events, with Independence Day on February 17 being a significant national celebration. Among these events, Dokufest stands out as an internationally recognised documentary and short film festival held annually in Prizren, drawing filmmakers and enthusiasts from around the globe.

Travellers should ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. Consulting a healthcare professional before travel is recommended. While basic medical facilities are available, comprehensive travel insurance is advised.

The official currency of Kosovo is the Euro (€).

Kosovo uses Type C and F electrical plugs and operates on a 230V voltage supply at 50Hz.

Buses are the main form of public transportation, connecting cities and towns affordably, though they can be crowded. Taxis are readily available in urban areas. Look out for registered taxis as they are metered and have fixed prices.

Albanian and Serbian are the official languages. Other languages spoken include Turkish, Romani, and German, by the older natives. English is spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.

In Kosovo, hospitality holds a significant place in the culture. When greeting someone, a firm handshake is customary. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on respecting elders, which is a fundamental value in society. Wearing modest clothing is generally expected and appreciated.

• Summer (June–August): Expect the atmosphere to be warm and clear. The hottest month during this period is August.

• Winter (December–February): Winters are usually cold, snowy and cloudy

• Spring (March-May): The temperature begins to rise during this period, though still conducive. Expect little rainfall and windy conditions during this period.

• Autumn (September–November): The temperature is mild ranging from 8C to 15C. It is usually rainy during this period with most rain falling in November.

Kosovo is a relatively budget-friendly destination in Europe. Accommodation, food, and local transport are generally reasonably priced.

Citizens of non-visa-exempt countries are required to obtain a visa before entry into Kosovo

• Key attractions include the historic city of Prizren, the Accursed Mountains, the Newborn Monument in Pristina, and the Gracanica Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Experiencing these rich cultural heritages and their natural beauty is recommended. 

• Before setting out on any hiking trail, ask to make sure that the area does not have mines

• Given the ongoing political situation, staying informed about current events and exercising caution, particularly near the border with Serbia, is advisable.