The Sunday Sip.

A Weekly Brew from Coffee and Rakija.

I’m David. The Sunday Sip, is a weekly newsletter about my life and experiences in a rural village in North-West Bosnia and Herzegovina. I’ll be giving you a unique look, through the eyes of an immigrant (me), of this much misunderstood country. My goal is to replace the many negative perceptions of both the country and its people, that you’ll be served by international media outlets. Thank you so much for dropping by.

The Update.

Am I Leaving Bosnia? A Personal Reflection

Good morning! Today, I’m starting this edition of the “Sip” a little differently, choosing to let you know my thoughts.
Despite this gloomy Sunday weather-wise, I’m still finding myself upbeat.

The Echoes of History

Bosnia and Herzegovina, like much of the region, seems to be wading through troubling times again. Bosnia has a pattern of turbulence, rearing its head it seems every few decades, and now feels like maybe one of those moments.

Unrest stretches beyond Bosnia into Serbia, where massive protests have erupted over political corruption. But honestly, who isn’t dealing with that globally? Take Novi Sad, the second largest city is Serbia for example.

Last November, a newly renovated railway station crumbled shortly after its grand opening, exposing layers of corruption. Just yesterday, the largest protest to date took place, drawing an estimated 250,000 to 345,000 people. Change feels inevitable.

What happens in Serbia (normally) reverberates through the region.

Bosnia’s Political Crossroads

Here in Bosnia, unease persists even three decades after the war. The country remains divided into two entities: Republika Srpska and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the Brčko District as a unique administrative region. It’s a complex political landscape, and recent developments are unsettling.

The leadership in Republika Srpska (RS) is pushing (seriously)for separation, an act that violates the Dayton Peace Agreement and risks conflict.

The president of the RS has been sentenced to a year of imprisonment followed by a ban from political life for 6 years.

The European Union has responded with heightened security measures, adding to the tension.

Its not looking all that bright to be honest.

To Stay or To Go?

Many are wondering, whether Bosnia will slip back into conflict?

Personally, I have my doubts.

Friends and family have reached out, asking, “David, are you leaving?”

The answer is no. Tamara’s family roots run deep, and after experiencing life abroad as a refugee in Canada during the last upheaval, she’s unwilling to leave again.

As for me, the idea of relocating no longer appeals. My children are safe and well, living across the globe, from New Jersey to Singapore, so any instability here makes me reflect rather than react.

I’ll keep you updated (if you’re interested) with life here “on the ground”.

This might all blow over, but I don’t think so. This situation has been rumbling on for decades and needs a solution. It’s time that solution was found.
Whatever the outcome, there will still be a significant part of the population that will feel deeply unhappy.

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The New “Personal Anecdotal” Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast.

Episode 1. What's this all about?

Welcome to my personal storytelling podcast, A Baby Boomer in Bosnia. This isn’t your typical heavily produced show with polished editing and soundscapes. Instead, it’s just me, sometimes with my wife, Tamara, talking into a microphone, sharing my experiences of living in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Whether you’re in the kitchen, driving your kids to school, working out at the gym, or simply looking for something informative yet entertaining, I hope this podcast becomes part of your routine.

The Food

Tamara shows you how to make the style of Ċevap made in Banja Luka.

From the Blog

I’m leaving this part of “The Sip” for another week, as I think it]s an essential read, especially at this time, in what’s happening in Bosnia and Herzegovina

One of the most common questions I get, both from friends and guests, as well as through my YouTube channel and here on Substack, is about the meaning behind the term “Bosnian.”

In this post, I try, as best as I can as a foreigner here in Bosnia and Herzegovina, to explain what may seem simple but is actually quite complicated, and is a MUST KNOW if you visit this amazingly beautiful country.

The Video

From An Englishman in the Balkans Podcast

In this episode I take you on a recent journey to the picturesque town of Travnik in Central Bosnia.

Hosted by local entrepreneur Ben, I explored Travnik's rich history, natural beauty, and burgeoning tourism scene. From the scenic bus ride from Banja Luka to the cultural insights offered by tour guide Dita, I immersed myself in the town’s heritage.

A Key highlight included witnessing sheep shearing on the Vlašic Mountain, savouring local cheeses and meats, and appreciating the historical significance of Travnik's landmarks.

This episode captures the essence of Travnik as a town with a dynamic past and a promising future.

Thank You for Being Here

If you’ve read this far, thank you. Your support means the world to me, whether it’s a comment, a subscription, or just taking the time to read what I share.

If you’re interested in supporting me but not through a paid Substack Subscription, Check out Buy Me a Coffee or Patreon.

And, I’d be thrilled if you’d check out my recently launched YouTube channel. It’s not about chasing numbers anymore; it’s about connecting with people who get it, who understand the joys and challenges of this phase of life, that I find myself in (over 70).

Until next week.

Videmo se opet (I’ll see you again soon).

David.