North Macedonia (FYROM) is one of my favorite countries I visited while in the Balkans. The country gained its independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991. North Macedonia’s national identity and name is a contention for some Greeks, who believe that Macedonia is an antique region within Greece and the people of North Macedonia (FYROM) should not be able to use that name or identity but should instead name their country Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM); they also argue that North Macedonia is stealing their national identity. However, within North Macedonia the people identify as the original ancient Macedonians and believe it’s the original place Alexander the Great was born. Now I have the politics out of the way, my time in Macedonia was great, the people are friendly and helpful, and the country is ideal for nature lovers, there are three beautiful national parks as well as Ottoman architecture to explore. I also loved how cheap everything was from transport to food and accommodation.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Macedonia is between the summer months of June to September, however these months are also the busiest months to travel. Winter is however a great time to go skiing in Mavrovo National Park.
Things to do and see
- Matka canyon: Is in Skopje, the capital of Macedonia and is one of the most popular outdoor destinations to explore, surrounding the canyon are several medieval monasteries that are also worth visiting.
- Lake Ohrid: and the town of Ohrid are both stunning the towns Ottoman style architecture adds to the beautiful charm of the place and should be high on your list to visit when in Macedonia.
- Macedonia Square: Is the biggest square in Skopje at 18.500 m². It is in the central part of the city, and it crosses the Vardar River. Skopje’s center is full of hundreds of newly built ancient Greek building and neoclassical monuments, of Alexander the great and other Macedonia and Greek heroes and fountains. Millions of pounds was spent on the builders and monuments which was not supported by many citizens who felt the money could be better spent on the people of Macedonia.
- Mavrovo National Park: Is home to Macedonia’s stunning forests, waterfalls and highest mountain Mt Korab at (2764m). The park is also well known for the country’s biggest ski resort both summer and winter are perfect times to visit.
Food
Macedonian cuisine is a combination of Balkan and Mediterranean and Turkish influences. Most herbs are collected from the mountains and countryside. Three popular dishes to try when in Macedonia are Tavche Gravche which is beans seasoned with dry pepper and chunks of onions then baked and served with bread. The second dish is Grilled meat which is very popular in Macedonia, the meat is usually served with bread and different dips including yogurt. The final dish is Kachamak which is made of cornmeal, potato and cheese. Kachamak is slowly boiled and then mashed together and topped with your choice of topping which is a combination of yogurt, sour cream, bacon or chopped pork ribs. There are many great dishes in Macedonia to try including international dishes from Europe and Asia. The local wines are also great and worth trying.
Transportation
Air: The two international airports in Macedonia, are Alexander the Great Airport in Skopje, and the other is St. Paul the Apostle Airport in Ohrid.
Roads: Most of the regional roads are well maintained and paved. Macedonia has many toll roads, the amount paid depends on the distance. Drivers drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Rail: There is an international train service that connects Macedonia to Greece and Serbia. A train service also connects the country but is slow and not as reliable as taking a bus.
Taxi: All authorized taxis in the capital and cities of Macedonia are metered and a cheap way to get around.
Ferry: You can enter Macedonia by boat from Albania via Lake Ohrid.
Bus: All cities, villages and towns in Macedonia are connected by local and long-distance buses. Buses are the cheapest way to travel around the country.
Visa
Visas are not required for all E.U, U.S, Canadian and Australian nationals for stays of up to 90 days over a 6 month period.
Language
The official language spoken in Macedonia is Macedonian which is a South Slavic language. English is also widely spoken
Money
The official currency in Macedonian is the Macedonian Denar (MKD) ATM’s accept all major credit and debit cards in all cities and larger towns, but if you are visiting rural areas you should make sure you have enough cash as they may be harder to come by. Credit cards are accepted at some sit-down restaurants, bars, bus stations and hotels, but don’t expect to use your cards at bakeries, small corner stores or at some cafes.
Tipping
Tips between 5 – 10% are expected for good service.
Social etiquette
Alcohol is illegal to buy after 7pm in winter and 9pm in summer. Its legal and culturally acceptable for people to smoke in all public areas including buses. Some restaurants do have designated smoking areas, but it’s not very effective.
Adapter
There are two plugs associated with Macedonia
Wi-Fi
There are many Internet cafes in the main urban areas most hotels and restaurants provide free Wi-Fi. You can buy a SIM card and credit for very cheap, to use in your unlocked mobile phone or smart device.
Ruth’s Lonely Planet 