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1. Isn't there still a war in Bosnia?
No. We have recently celebrated 10 years of peace. The disintegration of the old Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia led eventually also to armed conflict here. On 20 November 1995 peace was signed between the various parties involved and fighting ended. Since then the countries infrastructure has been largely reconstructed and tourists are returning to the country in ever increasing numbers, making tourism the fastest growing economic sector.
2. Surely it is still dangerous in Bosnia and Herzegovina because of landmines?
Bosnia and Herzegovina is not mine-free. This however does NOT mean that it is unsafe. About 4% of the total surface of Bosnia and Herzegovina is possibly contaminated. These areas are on former confrontation lines and are known, documented and often marked in various ways. Within city limits you can walk around safely. Moreover, there are many areas where you can recreate, walk, raft, bike hike, paraglide and (tour)ski, freely without coming within a distance of less then 20 km from a suspected minefield. Nonetheless we would not advise you to venture out in nature, off the beaten paths without a guide. Tourist Information Centres can help you find one, or make use of the offer of the travel agents/tour operators that can be found through this site.
3. What currency can I pay with?
The official currency of Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Convertible Mark (Konvertibilna Maraka or KM). It is officially abbreviated as BAM. This currency is tied to the EURO. Many private companies such as hotels, restaurants and other salesmen (street vendors, taxis etc) accept EURO’s for payment, but it is always good to ask beforehand to avoid surprises. Occiasionally, other currencies are accepted as well. Expect your change in KM however. You do not have to accept other currencies as change. There are cash machines in all major cities in BiH.
4. Are there border crossings between the Republika Srpska and Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina?
No, there are no border crossings just as there are no border crossings between say Texas and Oklahoma. You will occasionally see a “welcome to” sign.
5. My car insurance is not valid in Bosnia and Herzegovina, can I buy one at the border?
Many European insurance agencies now cover BiH. It is important to check before you leave. If you need insurance that your provider at home does not cover, you may purchase insurance major bordercrossings.
6. How do local people view foreigners?
BiH has seen hundreds of thousands of foreigners in the past 15 years – they have come as aid workers, diplomats, tourists and festival participants. So having foreign guests from any country is nothing new and you will be treated normally like most other places in Europe.
7. Are there certain rules/etiquette about taking photographs?
Like in any other country, it is always polite to ask the person you would like to photograph if that is ok with them. It is not generally accepted to photograph people praying in mosques or churches. Some villagers will object to photographs, again, always ask first.
8. What about etiquette vis-à-vis the various religions?
Secularism has affected all religions that are represented here. There are of course very religious people, but they are also used to a secular environment and tolerant like in most parts of Europe. It is therefore difficult to offend anybody. There are a few habits that may be different from what you are used to: many people prefer that you remove your shoes before entering their home, this may be religion inspired, but more often then not based on hygiene considerations. For the most part, you will find the people to be very much like yourselves – there is no need to act any different with Christians, Jews, or Muslims in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
9. As a lone or female traveler, am I safe at night?
BiH is one of the safest countries in Europe. Independent female travellers here have little or no problems. It is safe to walk back to your hotel room at night anywhere in the country. Like any other country, always use regular safety precautions. Be careful about random taxi drivers, for example. Always use an official taxi stand to hail a cab. Violent crimes against foreigners are almost non-existent in the country.
10. Is the water drinkable?
BiH has an exceptionally high quality of drinking water. Water from the tap is safe to drink as well as most places in the mountains or fountains in towns or along the side of the road.
11. Do I need any vaccinations?
No vaccinations are needed upon entry into BiH.
12. What about visas?
EU citizens do not need a visa to enter BiH nor do American and Canadian citizens. Check out the visa section on this portal for further details on other countries.
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