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Holiday Travel
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Tourist Attractions
Bosnia and Herzegovina, a hidden gem of the Balkans, is a country brimming with history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone who loves exploring charming old towns, this country offers a diverse range of attractions. From medieval fortresses and Ottoman-era bridges to stunning waterfalls and picturesque mountains, here are the must-visit destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Continue reading “Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Tourist Attractions”Ramadan 2025 in Mostar: A Time of Faith, Community, and Reflection
The Significance and History of Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. It is believed to be the month in which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel).
The practice of fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the fundamental acts of worship and devotion. The fast begins at Sehri (pre-dawn meal) and is broken at Iftar (sunset meal), with the daily schedule guided by the movement of the sun. The fast is not just about abstaining from food and drink but also about spiritual purification, increased acts of charity, and strengthening one’s connection to God (Allah).
Historically, Ramadan has been observed for over 1,400 years, and its traditions have been passed down through generations. The month fosters a sense of unity among Muslims worldwide, as they share the same spiritual journey regardless of their geographical location.
Ramadan 2025 in Mostar
This year, Ramadan in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025, and conclude on Sunday, March 30, 2025. Throughout the city, the holy month is marked by special prayers, community gatherings, and acts of charity.
Daily Observances
Each day, Muslims in Mostar begin their fast with Sehri before dawn and break it at Iftar when the sun sets.
Mosques in Mostar, such as Karadoz Bey Mosque, host special Taraweeh prayers each evening, where long portions of the Quran are recited, fostering a deep spiritual atmosphere.
Ramadan Traditions in Mostar
Mostar has a rich Islamic heritage, and Ramadan here is an experience that blends faith, culture, and community. The city’s Old Bazaar (Kujundžiluk) comes alive with people gathering to shop for traditional Bosnian dishes, sweets, and beverages for Iftar.
Traditional Iftar Meals
During Iftar, families break their fast with dates and water, following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad. Bosnian cuisine offers a variety of special Ramadan dishes, including:
- Begova čorba (Bey’s soup) – a thick, slow-cooked chicken and vegetable soup.
- Sogan-dolma – onions stuffed with meat and rice.
- Pita (Burek, Sirnica, Krompiruša) – thin pastry filled with meat, cheese, or potatoes.
- Tufahija – poached apples stuffed with walnuts and sugar syrup.
Acts of Charity and Community Iftars
Ramadan is a time of giving and compassion, and many people in Mostar participate in Sadaqah (voluntary charity) and Zakat (obligatory charity). Local mosques and organizations arrange community Iftars, where free meals are provided to those in need, reinforcing the spirit of generosity.
The Cultural and Spiritual Atmosphere
Ramadan in Mostar offers a unique experience where history and spirituality intertwine. As the sun sets, the call to prayer (Adhan) echoes across the city from its historic mosques, and the streets fill with families and friends gathering for Iftar. The city’s historic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a symbol of resilience and unity, becomes a meeting place where people reflect and celebrate together.
Ramadan in Mostar is more than just a religious observance; it is a cultural and spiritual journey. The city’s deep-rooted traditions, warm community spirit, and rich Islamic heritage make it a special place to experience this sacred month. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, witnessing Ramadan in Mostar provides an opportunity to connect with both faith and tradition in a meaningful way.
Maya Hasrouty : Beautiful Lebanese girl in Mostar
From day one the Tour Guide Mostar journey has been an incredible experience for our team. By collecting information about our hometown, history, architecture and contacting people who have visited us, we got the chance to communicate with real-life explorers.
This week we would like to introduce you to Maya Hasrouty, young and beautiful Lebanese girl who is passionate about traveling. Maya is a firm believer that travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.
Can you tell us more about yourself?
With an academic background of Economic Studies in banking and finance, my heart is drawn to cities, cultures, languages, scents, architecture… each with its own charm and “joie de vivre”. Fluent in Lebanese, French, English and German I find that the only effective way of communicating is through the eyes though they are the windows to the soul.
Why do you love to travel?
“We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel, next to find ourselves. We travel to open our hearts and eyes and learn more about the world than our newspapers will accommodate. We travel to bring what little we can, in our ignorance and knowledge, to those parts of the globe whose riches are differently dispersed. And we travel, in essence, to become young fools again- to slow time down and get taken in, and fall in love once more.” ― Pico Iyer We travel for all those things and more…. When you set your eyes on a beautiful hidden spot along the way of your journey…. you cannot help it… You’re in love! When you see the sun shining in another country… a variety of sensations get to your heart & you’re in love! When you visit an old church on a secluded island… your heart beats emotionally & you’re in love! When you discover a million years of history in one place… YOU ARE IN LOVE! So to make a long story short… Wanna be in love with the world? TRAVEL!
What is your web address that you would like to share with our audience?
My travel blog is majatraveling.wordpress.com
Was this your first visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina? What cities did you visit?
This actually was not my first visit to this beautiful country… I have been to Medjugorje and to Kravice Waterfalls before and I am gonna write about them soon! I’ve been doing lots of travel. I haven’t been everywhere but it is on my list! I visited France, Belgium, Germany, Spain, Croatia, Turkey, Italy, Portugal, Greece and recently Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia!
How long did you stay and why?
Unfortunately, my last visit was not long…I visited Mostar in the afternoon and spent the night in Sarajevo. Hopefully, I’ll be back to enjoy the beauty of this wonderful place for much longer
What places did you visit in Mostar?
The Breathtaking Bridge
Would you visit it again?
YES!!! Definitely
What would you recommend to young people?
Travel is a way to learn more about the world. You can tell me that nowadays with all the critical economic difficulties in the world traveling has become a kind of luxury to certain people. Well yes it is but you know what? Saving money to travel is actually worth it! That is why I always encourage people especially young ones to try & save money to travel because once they go out of the environment they live in everything will change for them, this experience will affect them positively. Their interests will change, they’ll have more respect for humanity, nature and even toward themselves.
Best places to spend Christmas in the Balkans in 2017
Christmas time is coming and there is no better time than Christmas to visit Europe! If you are looking for a memorable Christmas experience at an affordable price then countries in the Balkans are best destinations for you! Central Europe is always more popular as holiday destination compared to Eastern Europe but is often overcrowded during these days.
Whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with family and friends this is the best time to meet a new culture and holiday traditions at its most festive time.
Even the greatest of Grinches have to admit: These 9 cities, with their sparkle and cheer, can make the heart grow three sizes larger.
Zagreb, Croatia
Why go
If you are into Christmas markets, you might read that Zagreb was declared as being the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe. When you reach Zagreb and start exploring its city center, you will realize Zagreb was important city already years back. Everything looks even more beautiful during its Christmas market. A nice place to wander and stop for some Christmas goodies is also Zrinjevac, offering lots of stands with food and drinks to warm you during the cold winter days. In the middle of the stands, you will also find Santa’s home. If you like ice-skating, you also have to stop at King Tomislav Park – right opposite the main railway station. The Ice Park is really beautifully done, offering fun for all ages.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why go
The first thought you will have: It’s like Paris. The lights reflecting off the river running through the old center of town, people out, even in the cardigan chill, sitting bankside beneath old five- and six-story masonry façades, sipping warm drinks, eating their slices of cake slowly to extend their lease on the table. It is a lively atmosphere with children’s choirs putting on concerts and a band getting the crowd dancing. An ice skating rink in Kongresni Trg Square adds to the winter charm. Public transport will run, but not so often and if you wish to travel around especially with family, the best advice is to rent a car. You can visit Christmas Market in Ljubljana or Postojna Cave.
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Why go
The country is well known for host people from 3 different religions. What happens in a moment of an important celebration in Europe as is Christmas? Bosnia and Herzegovina is probably the most multicultural country in Europe with three big religions living inside of one country: Muslims, Orthodox, and Catholics. With a Santa’s Village and Children’s playground set up just for the market, this is a great place to bring children to experience the holidays. Visitors can also take in local crafts, organic food, and plenty of beverages!
Tirana, Albania
Why go
Expats in Albania enjoy their own Christmas traditions. Foreigners living in Albania may put up a tree for Christmas, have others over to their homes for the day, and bake sweets they are used to having for the holidays. Even though Christmas is a quieter time of year in Albania than in the West, those who crave the lights and festive mood that Christmas usually elicits can get their fill on New Year’s Eve. The Christmas tree on Tirana’s main square and the fireworks display at night help to mark the day.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Why go
The winter magic will begin on November 26th and it lasts until January 8th, 2017. All visitors will be able to enjoy a great variety of over 60 different exhibitors. In a variety of content, entertaining programs will be organized into two stages. Visitors will be able to enjoy school plays, performances by children’s bands, dance choreography, magic tricks and the inevitable Santa Claus will also be there, donating the visitors from his chariot. Mostar is the best choice for those who want to spend their Christmas in one of the sunniest places in Europe.
Athens, Greece
Why go
Greece brightens up as Christmas approaches, from the mainland to the islands, Greek Christmas traditions remain a deep-rooted part of the culture. During December, people are out shopping for gifts, decorating their homes and preparing for family feasts. The heart of the city is Syntagma Square and it’s where the city’s Christmas tree is lit. The square’s trees are strung with blue and white lights (the holiday colors of Greece) or with decorations such as karavakia (small Christmas ships).
Sofia, Bulgaria
Why go
Unusual for an Orthodox country, Bulgaria celebrates Christmas on December 25th, with the biggest and best celebrations reserved for Christmas Eve. Santa Claus goes by Dyado Koleda , or Grandfather Christmas, and arrives accompanied by his granddaughter Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden. Sofia residents gather on Christmas Eve for a multi-course feast, traditionally hosted by the family matriarch. Meat, cheese, and dairy are avoided during a 40-day fast leading up to Christmas in order to purify the body and soul, so expect tasty vegetarian dishes such as pumpkin cake and bean stews.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Why go
It is a time when the whole city glows in the warmth of decorations, carols echo, the aroma of festive specialties fill the air; all under a blanket of a thousand twinkling lights, Christmas in Dubrovnik is a magical time. And Christmas 2017 in Dubrovnik has plenty of gifts under the Christmas tree for everyone.
Sibiu, Romania
Why go
As always, this Christmas market is set in Sibiu’s awe-inspiring Grand Square (Piata Mare), in the heart of the city, and that’s probably a big part of its charm. Being surrounded by such magnificent Baroque architecture, makes you feel like you stepped back in time into a smaller, cozier Vienna. Cheerful and full of color, the stalls present a huge variety of merchandise, from Christmas decorations, roasted almonds, and mulled wine to traditional handmade products such as leather good jewelries, fur hats, and much more.