Diverse wonders of the Balkans

SINCE my school days, the Balkans region has fascinated me with its people and breathtaking landscapes.

My dream to visit the Balkans finally came true when I toured the region with my wife and young daughter towards the end of winter, when temperatures were between 2°C and 12°C.

The tour itinerary comprised nine countries – Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria and Turkiye.

Despite hailing from vibrant, multicultural Penang, I was discovering a whole new world.

Penang, known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” boasts a fusion of Asian and colonial influences, evident in its architecture, cuisines and traditions.

In contrast, the Balkan region in Southeast Europe, presents a tapestry of deeply rich yet singular cultures of civilisations that are nearly 1,000 years old.

A breathtaking view from Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia. It is one of the deepest and oldest lakes in Europe. — IMRAN HILMY/The Star

This can be seen in many elements from the Roman ruins in Italy to Turkiye’s Ottoman heritage.

Travellers can immerse themselves in the heritage city of Ljubljana, wander through the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik or marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor.

The Balkans’ diversity is not just limited to its sights but also extends to its cuisine, music and traditions, making it fascinating for cultural exploration.

In comparison to Penang, another notable difference is the pace of life and tourism infrastructure.

Penang is a well-established tourist destination with a plethora of modern amenities, luxurious resorts and chic cafes.

In contrast, travelling through the Balkans may require a bit more patience and adaptability.

While a few major cities like Istanbul and Dubrovnik offer excellent tourist facilities, much of this corner of Europe remain remote and rustic.

But then again, it is precisely this authenticity that adds to the allure of the Balkans, allowing travellers to connect with this ageless way of life and forge genuine experiences.

From the scars of past conflicts to the resilience of its people, the region’s history is both turbulent and captivating.

Visiting sites like Sarajevo’s Bascarsija, or its bullet-marked buildings in Mostar provides insights into the region’s tumultuous past and its path towards reconciliation and peace.

The Sebilj fountain and the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque are iconic landmarks within Bascarsija, showcasing the area’s significance in Sarajevo’s heritage.

One of the most enchanting aspects of the Balkans is its architectural heritage.

From the imposing Ottoman mosques of Sarajevo to the baroque splendour of Dubrovnik, every corner tells a story of conquest, resilience and rebirth.

Visitors can lose themselves in the labyrinthine streets of Mostar, marvel at the frescoes of Orthodox monasteries, or wander through the Roman ruins of Split.

But beyond its architectural wonders, the Balkans offer a feast for the senses.

The aroma of freshly baked burek (a pastry) seems to always fill the air, while lively bazaars overflow with colourful textiles and handmade crafts.

Each country boasts its own culinary delights, from hearty cevapi (grilled sausages) in Bosnia to succulent seafood along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast.

The strong cultural identities in each of the countries we visited were so different from Penang, which is predominantly shaped by its role as a strategic trading port with influences from various cultures such as Malay, Chinese, Indian, British, Siamese, Burmese and many more.

What stood out while I was visiting Istanbul, were the stray dogs and cats outside the compounds of the iconic Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.

The dogs and cats were clean and fat. The fact that they were actually strays shocked me.

When I asked a local man, he said the strays were owned by the local authorities in Istanbul.

The strays were trained to sit, roam the area and were friendly to visitors.

Both Penang and the Balkans share a common thread: the warmth and hospitality of their people.

Whether it is savouring a bowl of laksa in Penang or sharing stories with locals in a traditional Balkan village, travellers are greeted with genuine kindness and hospitality, leaving them with cherished memories that last a lifetime.

In the Balkans, strangers are welcomed as friends and every encounter is an opportunity for connection and camaraderie.