Pristina (Prishtina in Albanian)

The area of Pristina has a long history, in its vincity archaeological discoveries have been found which date back to the early neolithical ages.

Southeast of the city, the remains of Ulpiana were discovered, the center of the Illyrian province of Dardania. Ulpiana dates back to pre Roman times, during Roman rule Ulpiana flourished it was renewed in the 6th century during the rule of Justinian, after whom it was called Iustinana Secunda.

According to inscriptions on the monuments from Ulpiana, it is apparent that it was one of the most beautiful cities of the Illyrian Dardania, as it was often reffered to as Ulpiana Splendissima.

A number of articles were discovered here such as coins, ceramics, weapons, jewlery, all of which are exhibited at the Museum of History of Kosovo in Pristina.

Peja

Located at the foot of the impressive Accursed Mountains the city has been ruled by different dominating powers throughout history, giving it a diverse cultural character.  Under Ottoman rule Peja took on a more oriental character with the construction of narrow streets, old-style Turkish houses and mosques.

One of these is the Bajrakli Mosque, built by the Ottomans in the 15th century. You can even find traces of the brief presence of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the early 20th century in the shape of some handsome buildings in the city centre, as well as some massive socialist buildings and apartment blocks.

The mountains bordering the city form an extraordinary background, and are a great place for all kinds of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing or rock climbing.

Peja is well connected with the larger cities in Kosova. Buses run about every twenty minutes between Pristina and Peja and every half hour from Mitrovica, Gjakova and Prizren. The last bus leaves relatively early at 8pm. Since recently the train connecting Peja and Pristina has started to run again though it takes a while to get from one city to the other; you should count on a trajectory of little less than 2 hours

You can easily get around Peja on foot, it’s probably the best way of seeing the city. If you’re tired or in a hurry there are numerous taxis available for little money. If you prefer you can also use one of the city buses that cover the region .

What if you visit Peja and miss chance to visit this places:

• (Gryka Rugoves) The Rugova Canyon

• The beautiful mountains

• The cities main road KORZA for a night out.

You can go to the river and cool down on a hot summer day. You can jog around Parki i Madh(big park). You can hike on the mountains behind the school that’s across Camp Caffe (lusha’s place). You also can go to public pools or go on the Internet and keep in touch with your friends and family back home. The people of Peja are very enthusiastic and welcoming to tourists. Visiting the mountains in winter time are more challenging than in other seasons. Recently skiing stages and escalators have been put up, meanwhile the road has been fixed, which makes it an easier driving in winter.

Apart from the skiing, you can also spend nights in Rugova but remember to book the place before going there. There are restaurants and bars on the way and at the spot as well. Generally is cheap but bear in mind that you’re on vacation anyway.

As a result of different natural conditions we can find in this very small region many natural rarities and very interesting natural phenomenons, like thermal and mineral hot-springs 13km north-east from the city of Peja, in a small place called Banja e Pejes(Peja Baths). Not so far away from here, there are at least three karstic rivers appearing at different places, like one at the village Radavc, were you can find the most powerfull waterfall-called Burimi i Drinit te Bardhe,(White Drini Spring)-around 30m high, and the cave system nearby with the same name, then spring at the village of Vrelle, and one near the small town of Burim.

From the town of Peja going west and following the river-Lumebardhi you will enter the magnificient canyon with the name of Gryka e Rugoves, or Rugova Gorge, which is more than 23km long, and has few waterfalls and so many water-springs, like Uji i Zi-Black Water, Kroi i km-5, 5-th Km Spring,and so on, than hundreds of caves, most of them still unexplored, like Gryka e Madhe, or Great Canyon-cave system, until now only around 11km explored, then Shpella e Karamakazit-Black Scissors cave, and Shpella e Kallabes-Kallaba Cave were are foud the archeological remains of ancient humans, and hundreds of others caves waiting to be explored…

Further ahead there is a new ski center in the village of Boge-Rugova Valley, some 33km from Peja, offers a low-cost skiing in a beautiful suurondings.

You can go hiking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking, caving, skiing, with so many local clubs and associations.

Peja has the best water on earth–you just have to try it, and you will see.

The best beer from Kosova Birra Peja come from Peja and are served in many places. Also you have Lasko, Heineken, Beck’s, and so forth.

Try the wine from the Rahovec region, it’s the only local wine in Peja. They serve it as the house wine at “Art Design,” and you can also find it in most supermarkets. It’s a light-bodied wine, with a clean taste.

If you don’t like alcohol you can just take a macchiato or a cappuccino. You also have anything you want like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Sprite, and Bibita. Also – try any of the juices from the company “Tango.” This is a local company, from Peja, and they make peach juice, along with apple, orange, and many others. The peach is amazing.

Must Travel out to the mountains of Rugova and stop by the restaurants Te Mulliri and Te Liqueni which is way up the mountain. Also, try “Camp Rugova,” about 30 minutes into the mountains. Must eat the mountain fli along with homemade white wine.

The night life in Peja is really nice. Many people get out and the best places to visit is Camp Caffe (Lusha’s place) but it’s only open during summertime and though the location remains the same the name might change.

The owners have been to America and went to clubs in New York and were impressed. So if you can’t go to America go to Camp Caffe (Lusha’s place) and you’ll have fun. It is rated the best in the Balkans. There are also caffebars like : “Sobar”, “Mr. Jack, and “Radio Caffe” where you can go and have fun, mostly teens and adults.

Sleep

The main hotels in the center of Peja are Hotel Dukagjini , newly opened, and Hotel Peja, Hotel Gold and and Hotel Donna.

Also, there are many hotels and motels in the town and many apartments for rent.

The Old town and New town are separated by the River Bistica crossed by the old Ottoman bridge.

Old town is a melting pot of religion, Catholic, and Muslim being represented. The old town is quite picturesque with 18th and 19th century homes and much older ancient structures mixed in, all strung along the river with majestic mountains and the fortress in the background.

There is fencing and razor wire everywhere along here. This is the church you are able too see from the river. It’s about halfway up the mountain. It’s quite a hike!!!
If you get too close to the church your cloting could become casualties of the security measures. The church is amazing in its ruined state, military presence or not, be aware that people are inside watcing your every move.

When you reach the summit and the remains of the fortress are visible, WOW! The view…….all of Prizren……all of the valley, and so many mountains. Walk along the mountain, where it follows the river revealing a canyon that stretches ……well, to Albania The highest one in the distance covered with snow is actually, Albania.

Along the path, you will pass a heard of sheep being loud and playful in the warmth if its a sunny day. If you keep walking along the parh, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the mountains an valley below.

You will love watching as the colors stream across the sky, against the snow (in winter) and the mountains. It will makes you feel connected to the world. Watch as the city lights start coming on and the youth of the city start the ritual, agian, It’s comforting. It’s a real city. Enjoy!

Short guide to Prishtina

Nowhere else in the Mediterranean Europe will you be greeted by such an overwhelming warmth and hospitality by local people. Prishtina, the capital of Kosova, embraces and shares the culture that knows how to grasp the little pleasures of life.

Slow down, don’t rush, relax – Prishtina people offer you a great choice of trendy cafés, bars and restaurants to taste their remarkably excellent food and coffee as well as experience their positive approach toward life.

Prishtina is a wonderful modern city featuring remnants of antique cultures: Illyrian, Roman, Byzantium, and Ottoman. Once discovered Prishtina divulges its charm and beauty, and you are already in love – with a Wonderful Prishtina!

For budget-minded travellers, the following bus services operate to Prishtina from a number of European countries.

Shuttle buses for Prishtina city centre leave every other hour and cost €3. Alternatively, taxis are available for the price of €20. It takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the centre of Prishtina. You have touched down in Prishtina when you notice a huge poster of Bill Clinton welcoming you to the city.

Four Seasons in Prishtina

Spring
Prishtina is awakening itself from the winter sleep in late March. Snow melting, trees blossoming, cafés filling up with people – Prishtina is blushing with its youthful and cheerful mood. In order to take that special breath of spring-feel in the air, you must go to Gërmia Park – a green and delightful place to spend a lovely afternoon with your friends or your family. A jogger or a barbeque lover, you will appreciate its greenery and fresh air whereas the children’s attention will be captured by the little zoo.

Not to forget though, one must attend a famous book fair held in the Youth and Sports Centre of Prishtina, every May. Well known Albanian writers gather to celebrate and appreciate the fast-growing literature world of Kosova. New and old books are being presented, criticised and praised. The book fair lasts for a whole week – this is an event not to miss. Even if you are just a mere passer-by, you will be welcomed there and looked after by the local people.

Summer
In summer, Prishtina is in its most thriving and entertaining time of the year. This is the time when Prishtina reveals all its beauty and energy. You walk into the centre of town, and find yourself among thousands of shops, cafés, and bars. Bill Clinton and Mother Teresa boulevards will blister with a healthy laughter and cheerfulness of the local people.

This is the time of the year when Prishtina invites you to chill into a huge outdoor swimming pool – probably the largest in the whole of Europe. The heat of the sun and relaxation in the cool waters – what else can a person wish for his ultimate pleasure?

Summer is a perfect time for you to explore the historical sights situated around Prishtina city. Shielded in the land of endless legends, Turbia of Sinan Pasha, Graçanica Monastery, the remains of Ancient Ulpiana, and Marble Cave, will tell you the history from the eyes of ordinary Kosovars, who were there to witness changes happen.

Autumn
In autumn, Prishtina’s carefree and high-spirited summer lifestyle turns into a busy and lively flurry of finest food markets. It is the time when farmers from the farthest villages of Kosova bring their summer fruits and vegetables to the heart of Prishtina. It is a pleasant experience to get caught up in between the stalls full of fresh and famous Kosovar pairs and most importantly, millions and millions of sacks of different peppers. The sellers are there to make sure you do not leave the market without tasting every single fruit or nut. It is simply delightful!

After a busy day in the market, you now wish to sit back and make most of Prishtina’s theatre season. Autumn offers you a great choice of cultural activities. If you fancy having a good laugh, you should go and watch a comedy in a local theatre. If you wish to learn about Albanian folklore, you may want to attend a concert performed by the best singers and dancers of the region.

Picturesque markets and rich festive cultural life complement the colourful beauty of the autumn in Prishtina.

Winter
The remarkable beauty of Prishtina is such that it truly endures and exposes all four distinct seasons of the year. Winter in Prishtina is usually cold. Yet, it does not necessarily mean that you cannot enjoy it. In fact, wherever you walk, in the streets or in the parks, you appreciate elegant frost of the trees and piles of white snow reflecting bright sunshine into your face.

It is probably the calmest season of the year. Although, Prishtina cafés and restaurants are never empty. You must pop in a Qebabtore or Burektore – a typical Albanian eating place – to try traditional pies and pastries served with yogurt and fresh tomato salad. What’s more, you may want to join a customary ritual of drinking nice warm tea in oriental style.

Still, to fully appreciate and enjoy winter time in Prishtina you should go skiing to Gërmia Mountain, which is situated 6 km east of Prishtina at 1100m above the sea level. Fun and thrill of skiing will be even more enchanted when you realise that Gërmia Mountain grants you the most vivid panorama. You will be able to enjoy a clear view of the dramatic outline of Kosova Valley and the caps of Sharri Mountains.

Kosova is located in the heart of South East Europe. Kosova is situated between the 42° and 44° parallels of northern hemisphere and between the 20° and 22° meridians. Positioned in the centre of the Balkan Peninsula, it presents an important junction of the Median and Southern Europe, and the Adriatic and Black Sea. Kosova’s area is 10,908 km² and is populated by over 2 million people.

The main axis of the junction of northern and southern Balkan regions is comprised of the Ibër, Sitnica and Lepenc river valleys. This axis divides several roundabout valleys: near Mitrovica along the Ibër river passes the Adriatic highway which connects the Montenegrin coast, near Besiana (Podujeva) town; the Llapi and Toplica roads connect Kosovo with the Serbian city of Nish and with the interior part of Balkan Peninsula; nearby is the city of Prishtina and the Drenica valley which connects Drini i Bardhë (White Drini) with the shortest way to the Albanian coast. In the city of Ferizaj , the Morava e Binçës pathway is divided, which is then connected to the main river axes of the Morava and Vardar Rivers .

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]

Prishtina: The capital city of Kosova

The easiest way to get to Pristina is by plane. There are direct flights to Pristina International Airport [1] from New York, London, Zurich, Geneva, Gothenburg, Copenhagen [2], Vienna, Hamburg, Hannover, Dusseldorf, Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Stuttgart, Bremen, Rome, Verona, Ljubljana, Budapest, Tirana, Istanbul. The only low-budget flights to Pristina you can find are from Liege, Belgium. There are cheap connecting flights via Tirana and Ljubljana, but also from most of German airports.

Norwegian [3] opens a new route from Pristina to Oslo (Rygge) in June 2009. Flights on Mondays and Thursdays.

Also, Skopje International Airport is 110 km away (two hours). The bus to Pristina from Skopje takes about two hours and costs €4.50. The last bus in both directions leaves at 5pm.

From Albania, there are several daily direct bus connections to Pristina, from Tirana and Durres. From Tirana is a direct flight to Pristina every day.

There are also direct bus links from most cities in Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Bulgaria, Turkey, Macedonia, Bosnia, and Montenegro. From Podgorica in Montenegro there are at least two night buses (9pm and 10pm, approx 5 1/2 hrs) that run via Peja €16. The Prishtina bus station is quite a safe place to await sunrise (I was there on a Sunday morning). From Serbia there are several direct buses from Belgrade (6 hours, 1 day bus & 2 night busses, run by Kosovo Albanian companies, cost less than €10, stops depending on the route in Niš or Kruševac. There are twice daily mini-buses from Niš, they cost 500 dinars (about $10) and the guys at Niš Hostel (http://www.hostelnis.rs/) will help you get in contact with organizers, even if you aren’t sleeping there, as it is necessary to book in advance (information dates from February 2008).

There is also a bus service from Sarajevo (via Novi Pazar; Novi Pazar to Prishtina: 4 hours, 5 daily, 1st departs at 6am; last at 5pm); the trip lasts around 12 hours and costs around €20 (if you decide to take this option, get a friend to travel with you).

There are Trains which travel from Central Europe to Prishtina. These may take several hours to get there but it is a very good ride. There are no trains from Belgrade to Pristina and buses often do not connect.

If you arrive at Pristina airport – small, haphazard but recently modernized and efficient in a Balkan kind of way – you should get from the plane to the outside world within 15 minutes. The city itself is about 25 minutes away by car along the closest thing to a good road in Kosova. The many taxi drivers outside the airport will quote you €25-30 for the trip but will happily be haggled down to €20. If you pretend to be waiting for a lift from someone else they’ll compete with each other down as far as 5 Euros, but it hardly seems fair.

For more information about finding a Travel Agency to fly, or a Hotel to stay, please visit:

http://www.faqeteverdha.biz/yell/eng/index.php/cat/161/Travel,%20Tourism%20&%20Leisure