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Situated in Southeastern Europe at the confluence of the rivers Sava and Danube, the city of Belgrade is perched between Eastern Europe and Russia on one side and Western Europe on the other.
And because of this strategic location as a foothold between East and West, and its access to the rivers and the trade routes they offered, Belgrade has (as has Serbia itself) been a prize that many rulers have set their eyes on over the course of history. And it is this chequered past of rulers, occupiers, empires and conquerors with their many influences that has created a unique culture that is both Eastern and Western in character and outlook.
The modern day Serbia is now working hard to put the legacy of former president Slobodan Milošević behind it, and Belgrade is earning itself a reputation as a city that knows how to have fun. But what really distinguishes this great city is the warmth and generosity of its people who are keen to prove to the world that they're a friendly lot and welcome visitors with open arms, warm smiles and a glass or two of the local rakija (brandy).
There is real vibrancy and energy amongst the people, both young and old, and Belgrade is a 24-hour city which feels safe no matter what time of the day or night it is. Belgraders take their pleasure seriously, with a seemingly insatiable appetite for coffee, cigarettes, good food and socialising - a fact that is testified by the sheer number and variety of cafes, bars, restaurants and nightclubs in the city.
And because of this strategic location as a foothold between East and West, and its access to the rivers and the trade routes they offered, Belgrade has (as has Serbia itself) been a prize that many rulers have set their eyes on over the course of history. And it is this chequered past of rulers, occupiers, empires and conquerors with their many influences that has created a unique culture that is both Eastern and Western in character and outlook.
The modern day Serbia is now working hard to put the legacy of former president Slobodan Milošević behind it, and Belgrade is earning itself a reputation as a city that knows how to have fun. But what really distinguishes this great city is the warmth and generosity of its people who are keen to prove to the world that they're a friendly lot and welcome visitors with open arms, warm smiles and a glass or two of the local rakija (brandy).
There is real vibrancy and energy amongst the people, both young and old, and Belgrade is a 24-hour city which feels safe no matter what time of the day or night it is. Belgraders take their pleasure seriously, with a seemingly insatiable appetite for coffee, cigarettes, good food and socialising - a fact that is testified by the sheer number and variety of cafes, bars, restaurants and nightclubs in the city.
