Hey Reader!

This email lands in your inbox every Tuesday. It's all about travel insights, personal stories, and lessons from my adventures exploring over 90 countries thus far. Whether it inspires, entertains, or enlightens, let's celebrate the beauty and diversity of this amazing world we share, from a travel perspective! 🌍✨

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

War-Torn? That's What I Thought Too.

When you hear Bosnia and Herzegovina or Sarajevo, what comes to mind?

For me, growing up in the 80-90s, it was simple: war.

I admitted as much to our tour guide as he collected me from Sarajevo bus station before our day trip to Mostar and Kravica Waterfalls.

He smiled and reminded me that the Bosnian War ended in 1995… over 30 years ago!

Yet, because of how much the Bosnian War dominated the news back then, the country is still associated with conflict in many people's minds, particularly the older generation around the world.

As we drove out of Sarajevo, we passed a handful of buildings still marked with bullet holes, reportedly preserved as reminders of the city's resilience. Then, almost unexpectedly, everything changed.

Modern highways led us through tunnels and into rolling green mountains, sparkling rivers, charming villages, and some of the most breathtaking scenery I've seen in Europe. With every kilometre, the landscape, and my assumptions started to shift.

My highlights

Kravica Waterfalls stole the show.

Of all countries of Europe I visited during that 3-week adventure, this was the single most beautiful place I experienced. And what was most surprising was that the ‘hype’ on social media, was actually justified, the effort and cost to get there were actually worth it!

I was fortunate enough to have packed my swimsuit, so while everyone admired the falls from the shore, I was swimming right below them!

We also visited Mostar's famous Old Bridge, painstakingly rebuilt after being destroyed during the war. Today it stands as a powerful symbol of reconciliation and hope.

Back in Sarajevo, the Tunnel of Hope Museum offers a moving glimpse into how ordinary people survived the siege and emerged stronger.

And of course, there was the food. Richly flavoured, generously spiced, and happily accompanied by fresh chilli for those who enjoy a little extra heat!

What endeared me most

Bosnia and Herzegovina felt peaceful, modern, welcoming and remarkably easy to travel. English was spoken widely enough that communication was never a problem, and everywhere we went people were warm and relaxed.

The biggest fulfillment wasn't the scenery.

It was discovering how wrong my assumptions had been.

One of the greatest gifts travel has given me isn't simply collecting passport stamps (though I’m happy with those too); it's challenging the stories I've unknowingly carried about places I've never experienced for myself.

Sometimes the destinations that surprise us most are the ones we almost never consider visiting.

Accessibility: Many nationalities can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina (and most of the Eastern European countries) with a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa, making it an easy addition to a European itinerary.

Have you ever considered visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina?

If not, perhaps it's time to move it a little higher on your list. I did, and I'm so glad I went.

What's one destination are you curious about but may have dismissed because of its reputation? Would hearing a positive firsthand story make you reconsider?

Please hit reply and share, I read every email. 😊

Your Travel Coach,

Maria Kamau (aka Mkay)

Travel Enthusiast | Bodacious Adventurer |Travel Writer

I help women over 40 travel confidently, affordably and on their own terms, without relying on tour agents or on others to realise their dreams.

PS: If you are planning to Travel and could use some support, here are a few ways I can help you:

✅Book a check in chat so we can explore your travel plans and how I could help: https://tinyurl.com/check-in-chat-with-Mkay [FREE]

✅✅Work with me to get the support you need for a specific upcoming trip you are planning https://tinyurl.com/travel-support-options [Low Cost, High Value]

✅✅✅Work with me 1-on-1 for 4 or more sessions to equip you with the skills of travelling as a lifestyle and watch your travel dreams come true! https://tinyurl.com/travel-support-options [Affordable and Transformative]

------------------------------------------------------

OR Connect with me on:

​www.facebook.com/TravelwithMkay/​

​www.Instagram.com/Travelwithmkay​

​www.travelwithmkay.co.ke​

Tweeter: @Travelwithmkay