#ylwfrnd

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The Kindness of Serbia

Back in September I spent some time in Serbia. If the color of my skin didn’t help me stand out in the crowds, my over enthusiastic smile + the stamp across my forehead that read “TOURIST” definitely helped confirm any doubts.

While I was an outsider in country that may not welcome Americans with open arms, according to the media, everyone I interacted with was kind. Yes, there were those that may have had their guard up, but after a short interaction each person I approached would make me feel welcome in any way they could.

The first Serbian I interacted with was the immigration officer at the airport. Hands down one of the most nerve-racking tasks as a traveler has to be exiting a new airport. Also, when was the last time you ran into an immigration/customs officer who was happy for you to enter their country? Well, this guy was different. Not only did he smile as I walked up to his booth, after swiping and stamping my passport he gave me a jolly thumbs-up and said “Welcome to Serbia, you will like it.” Being blindsided by kindness was a little alarming at first, as the only time this has happened to me was when I crossed into US borders - which still could be hit or miss. However, I found that the people are genuinely nice and they LOVE Nikola Tesla, which is fitting.

Another encounter I had during my stay was with a homie on a local bus. I was already seated and he entered shortly after. I think he saw me staring at Google Maps on my phone as he sat into the seat in front of me, because he sparked the conversation instantly by asking the best possible starter - “Where you from?.” He was younger and had the vibe of a musician. It turned out that he was a beat producer from Serbia, but currently based in Sweden co-producing absolutely wicked tracks under the moniker #YLWFRND (Yellowfriend). 

Aww, the people you will meet.

PS: Attached one of my favorite #YLWFRND tracks above.

Serbia Tips:

Skip the cab line: Getting from Belgrade Airport (BEG) to Belgrade is really easy by bus, if you have spare time. You have 2 options: local and express, both are incredibly affordable.

Cash: Leverage your credit card or exchange minimal amounts at a time. It is very difficult to exchange Serbian dinar (national currency) outside of Serbia. The only place I was able to find an exchange that accepted the notes, abroad, was one booth in Frankfurt Airport.

Stay: Hostel Skadarlija Sunrise - 

Pro: Attentive staff and frequently cleaned bathrooms.

This morning’s track to tackle the rat race of the London underground :-/ !!

Do I feel more happy than most others around me? Listening to this I do.