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- Destinations
- Europe
- Macedonia
Macedonia
Macedonia is an ancient country in search of a modern identity.
After a civil war in 1991, today Macedonia can claim to be the most
peaceful republic to emerge from the former Yugoslavia, and
visitors here get to experience one of the safest and most
beguiling countries in all of Europe. Macedonia is a paradise for
hikers, bikers, skiers and climbers, as over 80 percent of the land
is mountainous and forested. Its abundant lakes and unpolluted
rivers also attract fishermen, while Roman ruins and religious art
invite culture buffs looking to see a different, fresher face to
ancient Europe. The capital is Skopje, a really enjoyable microcosm
of Macedonia's many charms. There are plenty of historical relics,
medieval fortresses and a bustling Ottoman-style bazaar. After
dark, Skopje's celebrated nightlife comes into its own with great
live music and clubs. Mavrovo, 40 miles (60km) east of Skopje, is
an excellent though hugely underrated ski resort in a wonderfully
scenic mountain location. Bitoli, the country's second largest
city, is known for its café culture and Ottoman heritage.
Macedonia's prime attraction is Lake Ohrid, on the south-east
border with Albania. This is Europe's deepest lake and one of the
oldest in the world. Between mid-July and late August the Ohrid
Summer Festival takes place, and this is the best time to
experience Macedonian music, food and people in all their glory.
Getting around in Macedonia is decent, with fairly well maintained
roads plied by public buses, and reasonably good value car hire
available. The trains are clean, cheap and slow - which is a good
thing as the scenery en route destinations can be magnificent. For
now Macedonia is an off-beat travel destination, but with its
unbeatable mix wilderness, culture, and famously friendly people,
this destination is primed to become the next big thing on the
European visitor's map.
Information & Facts
Climate
Macedonia has a largely Continental climate with long and dry
summers, and mild and rainy winters, with occasional heavy snowfall
in the mountains. The coldest months are January and February.
Although Macedonia is a year-round destination, May to October is
the optimum time to visit.
Communications
The international dialling code for Macedonia is
+389. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code
(e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Internet access is widespread
and there are Internet cafes all over the country. The central post
office in Skopje is open from 7am to 7.30pm Monday to Saturday and
8am to 2pm on Sundays. There is good cell phone coverage and
roaming agreements are in place with major international
operators.
Customs
Avoid discussing Macedonian politics: touchy subjects
include relations with its neighbours and the Balkan war.
Duty Free
Visitors to Macedonia may import one box of cigarettes, one
bottle of liquor, and gifts valued to 60dm without incurring
customs duty.
Electricity
Electrical current is 220 volts (50Hz). European round
pin attachment plugs and Schuko plugs are in use.
Health
Medical and health care facilities are good in Skopje and
large cities. Medical insurance, with provision for emergency
repatriation, is strongly advised. Avoid drinking tap water unless
it has been boiled or filtered. Pharmacies are well
supplied.
Language
Macedonian is the official language. English, French and
German are spoken quite widely.
Money
The unit of currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD), divided into
100 deni. Travellers cheques in dollars and euros are easy to
change. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted.
Passport Visa
It is recommended that foreign passengers to Macedonia hold
return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their
next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses
while in the country. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your
passport has at least six months validity remaining after your
intended date of departure from your travel destination.
Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated
by travel agents and official sources.
Safety
Macedonia is a relatively safe country to visit. Petty
crime and pick pocketing can occur; be especially cautious at the
large market in Skopje.
Tipping
Tips of 10 percent of the bill are expected by waiters
unless a service charge has already been added to the
bill.