Travel tips for Macedonia - what to prepare in advance and what to obey

The best time to travel to Macedonia is late spring and early autumn.

2. It is better not to include the territories bordering Kosovo and Serbia in the travel program across the country as it is only possible to stay in these regions after obtaining a special permit.

3. When deciding on accommodation options, it is best to choose in favor of the private establishments as Macedonian hotels are quite expensive.

4. The official currency of Macedonia is denar. In large cities, Banks work until seven in the evening, while in small towns they operate from seven in the morning up until one in the afternoon. The employees may demand for your Passport when you go to make a transaction.

5. Payment for goods using credit cards is not particularly common in the country. In general, credit cards are accepted only in expensive hotels and large shopping centers in Skopje. It is recommended to always have some cash with you at all times.

6. The main bus routes connect Skopje, Ohrid, and Bitola. When planning a trip to Ohrid, you should book your bus tickets in advance.

7. Between Skopje and Bitola, trains make regular runs. The journey time is at the most four hours. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

8. You can rent a car in the offices of international companies or at private owned rental points in Skopje and Ohrid. This usually requires an international driver’s license and an insurance policy.

9. There are tolls in Macedonia, as indicated by special signs. When travelling on them, you are required to make the necessary payment at the checkpoint or at the turnstile.

10. It is prohibited to smoke in public places: bars, cafes and restaurants, schools and universities, government offices, and other places that accept large crowds.

11. In Macedonia, tap water is absolutely safe for drinking. The country is extremely responsible for the quality of her local food; especially tasty is Fresh River or lake fish.

12. The crime rate in Macedonia is rather low. In Christian regions, cases of petty fraud against tourists are sharply suppressed. However, the Albanian neighborhoods may be unsafe.

13. In conversations with the Macedonians, one should not touch on the topic of the country’s relations with Greece or Bulgaria, as well as other serious political issues.

14. When gesturing to locals, it is important to note that a nod denotes denial, and on the contrary, tossing of the head-to-side signifies approval or consent.

15. The Macedonians are quite open and sociable people. During a walk around the city, tourists may encounter attempts by locals to attract their attention with a greeting or a question.