World Country Guide

Social Profile

Food & Drink
The traditional cuisine of the region includes obvious Turkish influences. Specialities are bosanski lonac (Bosnian meat and vegetable stew), lokum (Turkish delight) and rakija (old Serbian brandy) as well as halva (crushed sesame seeds in honey).

Nightlife
Bosnia & Herzegovina’s nightlife, particularly in Sarajevo, is widely reputed to be excellent. In the capital, the cosmopolitan atmosphere is tangible. The city apparently has more cafes per capita than any other European city and a relaxed cafe culture is prominent. There are many opportunities for nightlife activities, from cinemas and clubs to opera and theatre performance. There are also frequent festivals, showcasing such popular pastimes as jazz and film.

Shopping
Traditional purchases include woodcarvings, brass coffee-pots, ceramics, handmade carpets, woollen goods, wines, folk-art, tapestries, embroidery and leather boxes. Shopping hours: 0800-2000.

Special Events
The following is a selection of special events occurring in Bosnia & Herzegovina in 2005:
Feb 7-Mar 21 Winter Festival. Mar Festival of Bosnian Orchestras. Jun-Jul Days of Culture, New Town Sarajevo. Jul 12-16 Language Week. Aug 19-27 Sarajevo Film Festival. Sep TheaterFest. Nov 2-6 Jazz Fest Sarajevo.

Social Conventions
Bosnia & Herzegovina is charaterised by its ethnic and religious diversity and visitors should respect the customs and traditions of the various ethnic and religious groups. The main ethnic groups are the Bosniaks (48 per cent, also sometimes referred to as Bosnian Muslims), the Serbs (37.1 per cent) and the Croats (14.3 per cent). As a sign of acknowledgement of the three main religious communities (Islamic, Orthodox and Roman Catholic), the Government of Bosnia & Herzegovina allows its citizens to take off two working days per year for religious purposes. Visitors should be aware that drinking alcohol in public may be considered offensive by Muslims. Visitors should avoid expressing opinions about the war or other sensitive issues. Tipping: Tipping is customary for taxis, as well as in hotels and restaurants; the bill is often rounded up.