✅ DO’S

💸 Do carry some cash.

Cards work often, but some of the best little spots are still cash-only and it is still how it works around here for now.

🗣️ Do learn a few local language basics.

A simple “Dobar dan” unlocks smiles instantly and locals are extremely flattered when foreigners speak their language (or try).
Check out the language section for more.

🍑 Do explore the local markets early.

This is when you'll get some behind-the-scenes preparation and the best fresh fruit, honey, and cheerful vendors make mornings magical.
Before buying in one shop, take a look around and ask around for prices.
Sometimes, you can get an overpriced product just because you don't look from around here. ;)

🩴 Do pack water shoes for river spots (if you plan to go in).

The rivers are gorgeous but some are rocky; if you plan on doing rafting, it's cool to have your own also (although the company will definitely provide).

🚗 Parking can get hectic!

It's definitely something we are still trying to cope with even as locals.
When in Banja Luka, do download the BL Parking app. Keeps you out of ticket trouble and saves time. If you are outside of Banja Luka, make sure that you are parking in a 'legal' spot just to avoid any further issues.

📲 Do check restaurant Instagram pages.

Google opening hours can be completely wrong. We've added the Instagram page for most places in the guide.

💧 Do refill bottles with tap water.

It’s clean and safe.

🍽️ Do share meals because portions are generous.

A ćevapi can easily feed two adults and this way you get to try more local dishes. You can also order after you finished if you are still hungry, that is very normal to do.

🧸 Do ask restaurants for a kids’ corner.

“Kutak za djecu” is your secret weapon.

❤️ Do expect warm hospitality.

Locals adore children so you will probably experience this in many places. If it feels to much, you can always say 'Hvala!' with a smile and walk away.

🛒 Do stock up before Sunday.

Shops often close or run short hours.

🌞 Do pack sunscreen and hats.

Summer UV in this region can surprise you, specially heading south to Herzegovina.

🚙 If you get a car rental, get everything on paper.

Get a contract, sign it, take pictures. Not to scare you, but it is best to go with trusted car rentals, if possible. Specially when traveling with kids, you do not want to deal with any extra drama.

🪙 Do carry coins for public bathrooms.

Some toilets in bus stations can charge a small fee 0.50 KM.
You do not have to pay in gas stations so if you ever come across this situation, report or leave a google review.

🌧️ Use indoor playrooms on rainy days.

“Igraonice” = sanity savers. We've highlighter a few in our guide.

🕊️ Do embrace the slow pace.

Soft timing is part of the charm here and we kind of learned from it. Sometimes it might be fustrating but other times, maybe we all need a little bit of slowing down.