When reading about train connections in North Macedonia online, everything sounds promising. Most sources claim that the country has a well-developed rail network and a smoothly operating train system. However, in practice, the reality is quite different. Explore our experiences with train travel in North Macedonia here. Travelling from Ohrid to Bitola (and further on to Skopje) We are willing to go to great lengths …
Pristina Unveiled: Navigating the Tapestry of Kosovo’s Capital
If you’re seeking a destination untouched by your friends, Kosovo is the place to go! While many know of the country due to the Kosovo War in the 1990s or the ongoing tensions at its border with Serbia, few have ventured to explore this Balkan nation. Here we’ll present enticing recommendations for what to see in Kosovo’s capital, Pristina. This is just a glimpse of …
Explore the UNESCO city of Ohrid – With Kids
The enchanting UNESCO city of Ohrid is a place that perfectly combines historic charm, a crystal-clear lake, delectable dining, affordability, and warm locals. If you’re seeking inspiration for your visit with kids to Ohrid, Macedonia, read on. Ohrid – a City and a Lake Don’t be perplexed by the fact that both the city and the lake share the name Ohrid. Ohrid, the city, nestles …
How to get from Pogradec in Albania to Ohrid in North Macedonia
Imagine the following: there’s a picturesque lake. On each side of the serene lake are two larger tourist towns with comfortable hotels, inviting restaurants, a charming lakeside promenade, AND a well-equipped bus station. The distance between the towns is approximately 37 km. Wouldn’t you initially think that you could easily travel by bus between these two towns? I would guess that you’d say yes. That’s …
Pogradec: A Tranquill Lakeside Adventure
Let it be said right away: Pogradec is one of Albania’s lesser-known or less frequently visited places; but it is absolutely still worth a visit. Let us tell you why… Getting in: Of course, we were eager to embark on our train journey and had meticulously studied the map, where the railway connecting Tirana and Pogradec was beautifully delineated. Unfortunately, our anticipation was met with …
Best 5 Things to Do With Kids in Tirana
1. Aquapark Tirana This water park is located in the heart of Tirana city, close to The Grand Park of Tirana and Tirana Zoo. We spent a whole day at this water park, much to the delight of our children. The entrance is somewhat hidden behind a small amusement park with bumper cars and trampolines. We walked there, but bus number 2 stops right in …
Experience the Vibrancy of Tirana: Albania’s Evolving Capital
Tirana, the capital of Albania, is a city that fits travel agencies’ concepts such as “vibrant” and “bohemian.” So, if you are in search of a new city that lives up to the above, you have landed in the right place. A Brief Historical Overview The city, like the country, was in an iron grip for the 40 years when dictator Enver Hoxha ruled the …
Iconic Modernist Architecture in Former Yugoslavia
A special focus of our train journey through former Yugoslavia is the distinct Yugoslav architecture characterized by the modernist style, particularly brutalist architecture. A Brief Historical Overview After Yugoslavia’s break with the Soviet Union in 1948, the federation aimed to distance itself from the USSR in various areas, including architecture. This distancing was expressed through a unique architectural style that can be characterized as a …
Best 5 Things to Do in Durres, Albania
After spending a week in Durres, we have gained a comprehensive insight into the Adriatic coastal city. So, here’s our top 5 list of things to see and do in Durres, Albania. 1. The Roman Amphitheater 2. Durres Castle 3. Fatih Mosque 4. Freedom Square 5. Durres Beach and Promenade
Tips and Tricks For Planning a 6-Month Train Journey
Preparing Embarking on a 6-month train journey with three children requires meticulous planning. To fully savor the experience and minimize on-the-go arrangements, it’s essential to have a comprehensive plan in place beforehand. Turning Dreams into Reality: Our Journey from Leave Requests to Budget Crunching About 2.5 years ago, we took the initiative to request leaves of absence from our respective jobs. To our delight, these …