n July 26, 2016, I walked approximately 13,441 steps (thanks iPhone Health app), but I couldn't possibly complain, nor did I even realize I'd been walking so much. I didn't realize because I was in one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe: Sarajevo. Not Paris or Florence? No, just Sarajevo; my escape, my sanctuary, grade moj (my city).
1. Walking to the pekara to get warm kifle.
Nothing beats having the bakery right down the street. Kifle are warm nuggets of happiness. I'd be lying if I said I only went once every day.
2. Waking up to this view.
Sipping a cup of coffee and reading my Kindle on a rooftop equals my ideal morning. Too bad I can't wake up to this every day; I don't think I'd ever get sick of it.
3. Feeding the pigeons at Bascarsija.
You gotta feed the pigeons to get the real experience.
4. Imagining moments in history happening.
It's crazy to think that WWI started in this city. I stood here for a good five minutes trying to wrap my mind around it all. It's moments like these that make me thankful for all that I get to experience in life.
5. Finding one of the only places in Bosnia where you can eat sushi.
I was very surprised when I googled, "Asian Food in Bosnia and Herzegovina" and found this place. Sushi San is a hidden gem, a tiny little place tucked inside the city, and it absolutely amazed me.
6. People watching in cute kafici.
Coffee is an important part of Bosnian culture, mostly because of the social aspect. Kafici are coffee shops and cafes, and I practically lived in them. Drinking three cappuccinos a day was pretty standard for me...oops.
7. Reading the quotes at Sarajevo City Center.
This shopping mall had quotes all over the walls inside. Sarajevo clearly knows how to pay attention to the little details. If you know me, you know I'm obsessed with quotes so this really grabbed my attention.
8. Getting asked if I want 'kisele paprike' on my pizza.
These peppers make me so happy. I mean, could a pizza really get any more Bosnian than this?
9. Drinking tea at Cajdzinica Dzirlo.
Tell me this place doesn't look like it's out of a fairytale. There are so many types of tea, you won't be disappointed.10. Having a meaningful conversation with my taxi driver at 5 AM on the way to the airport.
Sometimes talking to a local, even when it's a complete stranger, is one of the best feelings in the world. It really does shape your experience in a positive way; it makes you want to get to know the people of the city- no matter where you may be.