Macedonia

Macedonia is an ancient country in search of a modern identity. After a civil war in 1991, today Macedonia can claim to be the most peaceful republic to emerge from the former Yugoslavia, and visitors here get to experience one of the safest and most beguiling countries in all of Europe. Macedonia is a paradise for hikers, bikers, skiers and climbers, as over 80 percent of the land is mountainous and forested. Its abundant lakes and unpolluted rivers also attract fishermen, while Roman ruins and religious art invite culture buffs looking to see a different, fresher face to ancient Europe. The capital is Skopje, a really enjoyable microcosm of Macedonia's many charms. There are plenty of historical relics, medieval fortresses and a bustling Ottoman-style bazaar. After dark, Skopje's celebrated nightlife comes into its own with great live music and clubs. Mavrovo, 40 miles (60km) east of Skopje, is an excellent though hugely underrated ski resort in a wonderfully scenic mountain location. Bitoli, the country's second largest city, is known for its café culture and Ottoman heritage. Macedonia's prime attraction is Lake Ohrid, on the south-east border with Albania. This is Europe's deepest lake and one of the oldest in the world. Between mid-July and late August the Ohrid Summer Festival takes place, and this is the best time to experience Macedonian music, food and people in all their glory. Getting around in Macedonia is decent, with fairly well maintained roads plied by public buses, and reasonably good value car hire available. The trains are clean, cheap and slow - which is a good thing as the scenery en route destinations can be magnificent. For now Macedonia is an off-beat travel destination, but with its unbeatable mix wilderness, culture, and famously friendly people, this destination is primed to become the next big thing on the European visitor's map.

Climate

Macedonia has a largely Continental climate with long and dry summers, and mild and rainy winters, with occasional heavy snowfall in the mountains. The coldest months are January and February. Although Macedonia is a year-round destination, May to October is the optimum time to visit.

Money

The unit of currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD), divided into 100 deni. Travellers cheques in dollars and euros are easy to change. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted.

Passport Visa

It is recommended that foreign passengers to Macedonia hold return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days beyond their estimated date of departure from Macedonia. No visa is required, for touristic stays of up to 90 days.
• British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days beyond their estimated date of departure from Macedonia. No visa is required, for touristic stays of up to 90 days.
• Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days beyond their estimated date of departure from Macedonia. No visa is required, for touristic stays of up to 90 days.
• Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days beyond their estimated date of departure from Macedonia. No visa is required, for touristic stays of up to 90 days.
• South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their estimated date of departure from Macedonia. A visa is required.
• Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days beyond their estimated date of departure from Macedonia. No visa is required, for touristic stays of up to 90 days.
• New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days beyond their estimated date of departure from Macedonia. No visa is required, for touristic stays of up to 90 days.

Health

Embassy Consulates

• Macedonian Embassy, Washington DC: +1 (202) 667 0501.
• Macedonian Embassy, London (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7976 0535.
• Macedonian Embassy, Ottawa: +1 (613) 234 3882.
• Macedonian Embassy, Canberra: +61 (2) 6282 6220.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Skopje: +389 (2) 3102 000.
• UK Embassy, Skopje: +389 (2) 3299 299.
• Canadian Embassy, Skopje: +389 (2) 3225 630.
• Australian Consulate, Skopje: +389 (2) 3061 114.