Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia is two climates split by the Dinaric mountains: a continental interior (Sarajevo) with snowy winters and mild summers (22–28°C), and a Mediterranean south in Herzegovina (Mostar) that runs far hotter, passing 35°C in July. May–September is the season for rivers, waterfalls and green landscapes, while December–February is ski season at Bjelašnica and Jahorina at prices well below the Alps. One draw for Gulf families in particular: Ramadan in Sarajevo is an experience in itself — the iftar cannon fired from the city fortress and Baščaršija's lanes open late into the night, among the liveliest Ramadan atmospheres in Europe.

Ramadan in Sarajevo is special — the iftar cannon from the Yellow Fortress, Baščaršija nights full of life, and many local restaurants adjust hours. Eid (Bajram) is a family holiday when small shops may close.

Locals are very friendly to Arabs. Bosnian coffee is an unhurried social ritual. Indoor smoking is common in cafés, and service runs slower than the Gulf pace.

Very much a cash country — many restaurants and shops don't take cards. Use convertible marks (KM); ATMs are common in cities. Don't rely on cards outside larger hotels.

No Uber or Bolt — taxis by phone or via your hotel (meters are generally honest). All global internet services work.

Traffic keeps to the right side of the road, as in the Gulf (steering wheel on the left). IDP required. Roads are winding mountain routes — allow more time than the map suggests.

Rounding up or ~10% at restaurants is plenty.

BH Telecom and m:tel — cheap kiosk SIMs (~BAM 10). Mountain coverage can be patchy.

Renting a car is best for exploring nature; intercity distances are short.

• Baščaršija Sarajevo
• Old Bridge of Mostar
• Kravica Waterfall
• Vrelo Bosne springs