Ok so it has been two years since this trip happened and I hope to go back!
It all starts with a wondrous 9h bus ride through the mountains from Novi Sad, Serbia to the east bus terminal in Sarajevo, B-H. (You might want to go back to http://themsnicole.blogspot.com/2015/08/single-on-july-day-part-2-exit-festing.html )
I shared a cab ride with a young Australian backpacker on her gap year. She tried to school me on traveling alone, but..hahah...I just let her talk. She was dropped off in front of her hostel and I continued on to the city centre. The cab driver let me out near the walking street. In his limited English, the friendly driver pointed me to the right street and was on his way. I had the booking.com app at the time so the hotel name and address was with me, but in the business of the night, the Franz Ferdinand Hostel was still a hard one to find.
The first people that I tried to ask were a couple just sitting around. The female was not too interested in providing information (I get that a lot-- could be the single femalehood, could be the Africa-tan, could be the English that is usually associated with Americans--either way I'm used to it). Her male companion did his best, but was ushered away.
I eventually ran into a police man...military... security..whatever. He sent me on my way and I found my hostel tucked away--sort of. It was in the middle of a bustling area. The staff were very friendly and helped in many ways during my stay--which was way too short!
The hostel itself was filled with historic pictures and modern design. I stayed in a four bed room, which did get stuffy at night, but it was safe and clean. There were lockers and the common room had a full kitchen. Each floor was locked and you had a code to get in. Plus there was free wifi! (what places don't have wifi anymore?!!)
Sarajevo is an amazing city with great food (eat cevapi!!). Bustling night life, great local brews served in great local bars; this is a city geared for young adults. This could mainly be due to the siege in the 90s. I highly recommend taking a history tour. Myself and a women (also a solo female traveler) went on a tour recommended by the hostel. The man that took us around was about 9 months old when the siege began. He took us a tour that began with the ancient movement of cultures to the area. We visited old towns and graves. Then made our way to the tunnels. Also a highly recommended visit. There original tunnels are cut, but a small bit and some tourist extensions remain.
We were also able to meet Abid Jasar- a survivor. He welcomed us into his home and told us about his time moving supplies around while under siege. He had lost a lot and helped very many. To my knowledge, he has past since my visit but you can read more on his facebook site: https://www.facebook.com/abid.jasar?pnref=story. Abid welcomed everyone and just wanted to meet people and share his story. Plus he loved receiving postcards :)
Overall, Sarajevo was an amazing visit. I had watched it during the 1984 Olympics (relics of which I was able to visit on my trip); I was glued to the TV during the siege and it was always a place I wanted to visit. Next time I will stay longer. Next time I will do the trip to Mostar. Next time will happen!
( no payments have been provided by anyone mentioned--but I'll welcome the money)
