Holiday Guide Serbia
Once part of the former Yugoslavia, this Balkan country has never been high up on the international tourist circuit and in its 2,000-year history the capital city has been sacked and destroyed almost 40 times. But times are changing for this formerly war-torn area, as the new independent countries of the peninsula begin to receive tourists who are jaded and bored with the traditional Western European tourist destinations.
Much of Serbia's natural beauty is untainted, with verdant forests clinging to hills and mountains perfect for camping and hiking, while the flatlands of the north contribute to most of the country's agricultural needs.
The Tara Canyon near the Bosnian border is a huge draw for citizens of Balkan countries. Located within the boundaries of Durmitor National Park, the canyon proclaims itself to be the second biggest in the world, after the Grand Canyon in Arizona in the United States. Water still flows through this canyon, and the whitewater rafting is superb. People come to hike in the mountains and discover the alpine lakes, the largest being Crno Jezero, while the ski resort of Jazibak brings in powder junkies during the winter months.
All of Serbia's cities, not least its capital Belgrade, have had a renewed sense of energy and vigour since the war-torn region finally found a degree of peace. The people are animated and hospitable - and the love to party. The nightlife in Belgrade and Serbia's other urban areas may not be up to snuff with SoHo or Ibiza, but the scene is nonetheless abuzz with locals out to have a good time.
Getting to Serbia is getting easier as time goes on, with trains arriving form Western Europe usually via Budapest, and regular services from surrounding countries like Romania, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Turkey and Greece. Arriving by ferry form continental Europe involves a trip from Bari in southern Italy, while some local routes arrive from Greece.
Although Serbia is now considered a safe country to visit, it is advisable that travellers take out an insurance policy before leaving home. There is always a risk of crime or theft while on holiday, while participating in any outdoor adventure activity poses risks as well.
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