05-1989
When I visited this small republic, it was still part of the old Yugoslavia and I was too young to remember anything. So I based my research for this country on a fellow traveller and good friend Pavlo, who was my best resource for what’s going on in FYROM at the moment.
Mountainous FYROM still has an air of mystery to it. As ancient and brand new at the same time, it’s struggling to find its place in the post-communist world. Black-clad Orthodox monks are just as much a part of this renewal as the masses of teenagers, bedecked in the latest Italian fashions, sipping coffee in the stylish bars of the capital. Pavlo considers the nightlife in Skopje to be one of the best he has ever experienced.
For outdoors types it’s a paradise. Its extensive wilderness allows ample opportunities for hikers, mountain climbers and skiers. Try the stunning Mavrovo National Park in the west for the country’s best skiing and some unforgettable alpine views. Meanwhile, ancient ruins will fascinate anyone with even the slightest interest in history, as will the amazing Sveti Naum monastery. The culturally rich town of Ohrid is one of FYROM’s highlights, with its beautiful lake and spiritual significance.
The capital Skopje is a buzzing place where Eastern European stereotypes and unexpected attractions come hand in hand with worth remembering results. In short, for a little place it’s crammed with something for just about everyone. Those were Pavlo’s exact words.
The top highlight of all FYROM’s spectacular peaks, lakes and rivers, as Pavlo always says, is the hospitality of the people of this most southern of Slavic nations that will make your visit truly memorable.
PS. The photos you see are taken from Inca’s & Bread’s personal albums.