2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 3
CONTENTS
18 Running Business in Belgrade
guide
VESNA PERIĆ: INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
EDITOR Petar Zorić ASSISTENT EDITOR Mark R. Pullen ART DIRECTOR Tamara Ivljanin t.ivljanin@cma.rs EDITORIAL MANAGER Tamara Čanković EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Mark R. Pullen, Ana Stojanović, Vladan Alimpijević PHOTO Đorđe Stanić, Petar Lazović SALES Vesna Vukajlović, v.vukajlovic@cma. rs; Tanja Milićević, t.milicevic@aim.rs; Maja Vidović, m.vidovic@aim.rs GENERAL MANAGER Ivan Novčić i.novcic@cma.rs FINANCIAL DIRECTOR Ana Besedić a.besedic@cma.rs OFFICE MANAGER Tanja Banković, t.bankovic@cma.rs PRINTING Rotografika d.o.o. Segedinski put 72, Subotica RUNNING BUSINESS IN BELGRADE 2009 PUBLISHER: Turist Organization of Belgrade PUBLISHED BY: alliance international media Knjeginje Zorke 11b, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia Phone: +(381 11) 308 99 77, 308 99 88 Fascimile: +(381 11) 244 81 27 office@allianceinternationalmedia.com www.allianceinternationalmedia.com ISSN no: 1451-7833 All rights reserved Turist Organization of Belgrade
4 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
6
THE BELGRADE CONVENTION BUREAU
22
NEW CITY - NEW IDENTITY
8 12
36 38
AROUND BELGRADE WALKING & CYCLING
40
CHOOSE YOUR FAVOURITE SPORT
BELGRADE AT A GLANCE TOP INVESTMENT IN BELGRADE
26
HOTELS
42
TENNIS: IVANOVIĆ, JANKOVIĆ, ĐOKOVIĆ
14 16
ECONOMIC UPS & DOWNS FOREIGN INVESTORS IN SERBIA
30 32
HOST CITY OF THE FUTURE NIGHTLIFE, FOOD & DRINK
44
CONFERENCE & EXIBITION VENUES
Welcome to Belgrade, Belgrade is a constantly changing and progressing city that welcomes everyone; a city that nobody departs from feeling indifferent. Belgrade is a resurgent city at the crossroads of Europe’s east and west. The city offers a rich blend of culture, architecture, eastern allure and western finesse. Belgrade is a city of culture, sports, leisure, festivals and music. Belgrade enjoys an enviable location in Europe. The city is situated on two major navigable rivers and lies along Pan European corridors 10 and 7. Belgrade has a modern international airport and is accessible via rail. Known as the gate to the East and door to the West, Belgrade exhibits an eclectic fusion of eastern and western cultures. The Serbian capital’s strategic geographic location, economic potential, infrastructure, workforce, quality of life and potential for further development have earned it the title of Southern European City of the Future. As Europe’s fastest growing congress destination, Belgrade is an ideal incentives location. WHY BELGRADE? This exciting city offers a new market in a unique country! Belgrade offers solid infrastructure and extraordinary conference and exhibition facilities. Moreover, the city boasts many business professionals in every field and seasoned professional congress organisations (PCOs) and destination maganement companies (DMCs). We invite you to discover the heart and soul of Belgrade. Explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, lively cafes and bars, fashionable shops, innovative cuisine and bountiful theatres, museums and galleries. Belgrade is also your launchpad for excursions to some of Serbia’s most beautiful monasteries, wineries, farmhouse restaurants, ethno villages, spas, wildlife reserves, scenic natural wonders and archaeological sites. We have assembled this guide to provide you with all of the information you need to plan a successful event in Belgrade. Organise a meeting in Belgrade and you will not be disappointed. The Belgrade Convention Bureau is ready to assist you in planning your next event; from selecting the appropriate venue to helping you choose the best service providers, we are prepared to ensure your success! We look forward to welcoming you to Belgrade. The Tourist Organisation of Belgrade Belgrade Convention Bureau
THE BELGRADE CO The Belgrade Convention Bureau (BCB) markets Belgrade as an international meetings destination. It provides assistance to organisations who are bidding for, or organizing, congresses, corporate meetings, incentive groups or exhibitions. All of Belgrade’s leading hotels, venues and meetings supplier businesses are BCB’s partners. as a result, BCB provides meeting planners with direct access to a broad choice of the best meetings products and services available.
SERVICES PROVIDED BY BCB Bid Assistance Bidding for meetings or congresses requires a wide range of skills to be successful. These include strategic planning, organisational skills, leadership, creativity, lobbying and presentation skills. The ability to build strong partnerships with clients is also vital. BCB provides local and international hosts with a high level of knowledge and expertise in planning and compiling bid documents and packages. These include:
Identifying and addressing bid criteria; Co-ordination and preparation of bid documents; Obtaining letters of support from government and industry leaders; Preparing preliminary budgets with PCOs; Liaising between government and industry; Locating suitable venues in the Belgrade area that meet bid criteria;
NVENTION BUREAU CONTACTS Convention Bureau, Tourist Organisation of Belgrade Masarikova 5/ix 11000 Belgrade, Serbia Tel: + 381 11 3061 400; Fax: + 381 11 3061 414 Contact: Dragana Babović Congress Tourism Co-ordinator dbabovic@tob.co.rs; www.tob.co.rs
Identifying accommodation packages that meet bid criteria; Tentative bookings of meeting venues, hotel rooms and social venues; Support and management of site inspections; Bid promotions including distribution of promotional material and media assistance; Preparation of bid documents; Assistance with bid presentations;
Services to Meeting Planners Once a meeting has selected Belgrade as its future destination, the BCB offers a range of services to meet planners’ needs: Meeting Planners Guide to Belgrade; PCO selection assistance; Advice on destination issues (facility selection, pre and post touring, social programs); Service referrals; Promotional materials / information kits; Government liaison
FEATURE
BELGRADE AT A GLANCE
Welcome to Belgrade and get ready for a surprise. Belgrade, as it has always been, is a hip dynamic city that is now booming with new business and urban development projects; a city that prides itself on having one of the coolest nightlife scenes anywhere in Europe
C
rime rate is traditionally low and there is no part of town that wouldn’t be safe to walk any time of day or night. Belgrade is way safer than most cities of two million people, and provides all the services and amenities you can expect from a regular European capital. Truly moving on from the conflicts of 1990s, Belgrade is now quickly regaining its former position as the business hub of the Balkans. With foreign direct investment that topped 2 billion dollars in 2007. and an urban plan that includes new bridges, new light rail system, five star hotels and more than 125,000 square meters of new office space, Belgrade is the development powerhouse of the region. Only last year it won Financial times’ prestigious award City of the Future for south Europe. With current accommodation capacity, Belgrade can easily accom-
8 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
modate conferences of up to five thousands participants. Belgrade’s exhibition and conference center Sava was fully renovated for top service to host 2005 EBRD conference that had more than 4,000 participants. And in 2005, modern sports complex Belgrade arena was open, which will host World University summer games 2009, larg-
est world sports championship for college athletes. Belgrade is coming on strong as one of the new European hot spots, poised to give popular weekend destinations like Berlin and Milan a run for their money. Attractive and architecturally striking, Belgrade has a unique ambience and irresistible charm of real, beguiling Balkan spirit. There is history oozing out of every brick and an atmosphere you can almost touch. You get a real feeling of being in an exotic location, where the tectonic plates of Islam, orthodox Christianity and Roman Catholicism, alongside socialism and capitalism, have all collided in the past. But it’s the electricity of Belgrade’s street life that makes the greatest impression. the tree lined avenues, cobbled streets, wide squares, sidewalk terraces, bistros on boulevards and case in pedestrian zones are bustling with life, be it 2 a.m. or 2 p.m. You can shop yourself out, play the culture vulture or party until dawn, whether it’s a Monday or a Saturday. With so many great shows, concerts and sports events competing for your attention, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The value to be found is hard to believe and you are guaranteed to run into some of the warmest and most welcoming people you will ever meet.
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 9
FEATURE
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION Belgrade is situated on Southeast Europe’s Balkan Peninsula. It lies at the point where the River Sava merges into the Danube, on the slope between two alluvial planes. The river waters surround it from three sides, being the guardian of river passages since ancient times. Because of its position it was properly called “the gate” of the Balkans, and “the door” to Central Europe. Along the ridge of the slope, from Kalemegdan, along the Knez Mihailova street, across Terazije to Slavija, stretches the main city traffic artery. On the other
10 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
side of the river, New Belgrade developed into a new residential and business area. Belgrade is the intersection of the roads of Eastern and Western Europe which lead through the Morava-Vardar valley and Nišava-Marica valley to the shores of the Aegean Sea, to Asia Minor and to the Middle East. Belgrade lies on the Danube river, the sailing route, which connects the Western Europe and Central Europe countries with the countries of South-Eastern and Eastern Europe. By the construction of the artificial lake and the Đerdap power station, Belgrade became a river and sea port. The ships from the Black Sea sail to its docks, and with opening of the Rhine-Main-Danube canal, Belgrade came to the center of the most important sailing route in Europe: The North Sea - Atlantic - Black Sea route. Even back in the past, because of its location, it was a very attractive city to be conquered. The Belgrade territory covers an area of 322.268 ha (inner-city area covers 35.996 ha), and it is administratively divided into 17 municipalities - 10 urban (Čukarica, Voždovac, Vračar, Novi Beograd, Palilula, Rakovica, Savski venac, Stari grad, Zemun, Zvezdara) and 7 suburban municipalities (Barajevo, Grocka, Lazarevac, Obrenovac, Mladenovac, Sopot, Surčin). The largest municipality is Palilula (44.661 ha), and the smallest is Vračar (292 ha).
POSITION, RELIEF, CLIMATE
Serbia is located in the central part of the Balkan Peninsula, on the most important route linking Europe and Asia, occupying an area of 88, 361 sq. km. Serbia is in the Central European time zone (CET). Its climate is temperate continental, with a gradual transition between the four seasons of the year.
Serbia is referred to as the cross-roads of Europe. The international roads and railways passing down its river valleys make up the shortest link between Western and Central Europe, on the one side, and the Middle East, Asia and Africa, on the other. Hence the geopolitical importance of its territory . These roads follow the course of the valley of the river Morava, splitting in two near the city of Nis. One track follows the valleys of the rivers Southern Morava and Vardar to Thessaloniki; the other, the river Nisava to Sofia and Istanbul. Serbian rivers belong to the basins of the Black, Adriatic and Aegean Seas. Three of them, the Danube, Sava and Tisa, are navigable. The longest river is the Danube, which flows for 588 of its 2.857 kilometer course through Serbia. The Danube basin has always been important for Serbia. With the commissioning of the Rhine-
Main-Danube Canal in September 1992, the Black Sea and the Near and Far Eastern ports have come much nearer to Europe. Serbia is linked to the Adriatic Sea and Montenegro via BelgradeBar railway. Northern Serbia is mainly flat, while its central and southern areas consist of highlands and mountains. The flatlands are mainly in Vojvodina (the Pannonian Plain and its rim: Macva, the Sava Valley, the Morava Valley, Stig and the Negotin Marches in Eastern Serbia). 55 per cent of Serbia is arable land, and 27 per cent is forested. Of its mountains 15 reach heights of over 2,000 meters , the highest being Djeravica in the Prokletija range (2,656 m). The length of Serbia’s border is 2,397 km. To the East Serbia borders with Bulgaria, to the North East with Romania, to the North with Hungary, to the West with Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and to the South with Albania and Macedonia. 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 11
INVESTMENTS
TOP INVESTMENT IN BELGRADE
The last decade has seen Belgrade make a successful transition from what used to be a developed industrial city to the centre of service related business. This was partially due to large investments made by foreign banks, insurance companies, retail chains and real estate companies. The regional headquarters of many international companies and banks are now located in Belgrade, as are the head offices of international companies from the financial and real sector. Due to an abundant offer of highly qualified workers, the most dominant production investments are in hi-tech projects that entail a high level of knowhow and significant funds spent on acquiring equipment and working capital.
SELECTED COMPLETED AND ANNOUNCED GREENFIELD PROJECTS IN BELGRADE (2001-2009.) Company
Country
Industry
Investment Value (EUR mn)
Moblikom
Austrija
Telecommunications
570 (320+250)
Airport City Belgrade
Izrael
Real Estate
200 (100+100)
Casinos Austria i Loutraki
Austrija i Grčka
casino
Ball Packaging Europe
SAD
Metal industry
Bluehouse i Energoprojekt
Grčka i Srbija
Real Estate
60
Veropoulos
Grčka
Retail
60
Grawe
Austrija
Real Estate
30
InterContinental Hotels Group
Velika Britanija
Real Estate (tourism)
20
New Company
Grčka
Real Estate (tourism)
20
Knauf
Nemačka
Building industry
10
98 85 (60+25)
Source: SIEPA 12 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
POPULATION
POPULATION DATA
Back in 2002, there were 1,576,124 citizens living in the city’s metropolitan area and 1,273,651 residents of the inner-city area. The Belgrade municipality with the greatest number of inhabitants (217,773) is New Belgrade, while Sopot has the smallest number of inhabitants (20,390). Recent statistics show that Belgrade’s population has risen to 1.9 million citizens. However, at the same time more than 60,000 Belgraders now live abroad. Belgrade’s main nationalities are: Serb (1,417,187) Yugoslav (22,161) Montenegrin (21,190) Croat (10,381) Macedonian (8,372) Roma (19,191) Muslim (4,617) The rest are Slovaks, Hungarians, Slovenes, Albanians, Bosnians, Romanians, etc.
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 13
SERBIA, FACTS & FILES
ECONOM
I
n 2008, Belgrade’s Gross Domestic Product grew in real terms by 5.4%, compared to 2007. Due to the expected deepening of the crisis during 2009, prior projections of national GDP growth of 3.5% in 2009 cannot be accomplished; moreover, it is now certain that there will be a fall of GDP in 2009. Prices of consumer goods in December 2008 were on average 0.9% lower than in the previous month, while they grew by 8.6% compared to the same month of the previous year. In 2008, in relation to 2007, industrial production grew by 1.1%. Retail prices of goods and services in Serbia in March 2009 went up by an average of 0.5% compared with the previous month (prices of goods are 0.4% higher, while the prices of services are higher by 0.5%). In March 2009, compared with the same month 2008, retail prices had gone up by 9.9%, while compared with December 2008 they had gone up by 5.8%. According to the cumulative data for the period January-December 2008, retail trade in goods in the Republic of Serbia increased by 19.7% (current prices) and by 5.9% (constant prices), in relation to the same period of the previous year. Retail trade of goods in Serbia reflects the fall in demand caused by the global downturn. In February 2009, the trade volume had reduced year-on-year by 9.5% in current prices and 16% in constant prices. In the period January-December 2008, the tourism receipts of the Republic of Serbia recorded 14 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
IC UPS & DOWNS From GDP to employment figures, price trends and national reserves, here we give you the latest information on the facts and figures of Belgrade’s economy. a 2% fall in relation to the same period of 2007 - measured by number of tourist arrivals - while the total number of overnight stays remained unchanged. There was also a fall in the number of arrivals and overnight stays by domestic tourists (9% and 6% respectively), as well as the number of arrivals and overnight stays of foreign tourists (9% and 13% respectively). The total number of unemployed persons in February 2009, according to data from National Employment Agency, amounted to 749,691 persons. The number of jobseekers in February 2009 decreased by 5.83% in relation to the same month last year, while the number of jobfinders in February 2009 was 17.82% lower than the amount finding employement a month before. The average monthly wage paid out in the Republic of Serbia in February 2009 amounts to 43,353 RSD. Compared with the average wage paid out in January 2009, it is nominally higher by 7.7% and in real terms by 6.3%. Average wage without taxes and contributions in Serbia paid out in February 2009 stands at 31,121 RSD. Compared with the average wage excluding taxes and contributions paid out in January 2009 it is nominally higher by 7.8% and in real terms by 6.4%. Total foreign trade of the Republic of Serbia in
2008 amounted to 33,972.0 million USD, which showed the growth of 24.1% compared to 2007. Total foreign trade in Republic of Serbia for the period January-February 2009 amounts to 3,115.7 million USD, smaller by 35.9% compared with the same period of the prior year. Exports were worth 1,007.9 million USD which represents the reduction by 35.0% compared with the same period of the prior year while the imports were worth 2,107.8 million USD which is a reduction by 36.4% compared with the same period of the prior year. Deficit of the trade for the two months of 2009 is at 1,099.9 million USD which is narrowed by 37.6% compared with the same period 2008. Major foreign trade partners to Serbia in exports, individually, were Germany (118.2 million USD), Italy (115.7 million USD) and Bosnia and Herzegovina (111.7 million USD). Major partners in imports, individually, were the Russian Federation (334.1 million USD), Germany (231.0 Million USD) and Italy (183.1 million USD). According to preliminary data, the foreign currency reserves of NBS early in February 2009 amounted to over 8.3 billion EUR (this growth was realised thanks to the inflow of resources from privatization of NIS). On the last day of November 2008, Serbia’s foreign trade debt amounted to 21.7 billion EUR. 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 15
SERBIA, FACTS & FILES
FOREIGN INVESTORS IN SERBIA
The number of Active commercial entities that were founded byforeign legal entities or people on the territory of the Republic of Serbia is 18 774, according to the APR. These companies employ a total of 221,820, based on data gleaned from the annual financial reports that were provided by economic entities to APR in 2007. SERBIAN BUSINESS REGISTERS AGENCY The Serbian Business Registers Agency (APR) is a unique institution tasked with controlling the competence of conducting business registers as a unique, centralised, public and electronic database. Books that lead the agency are as follows: 1. Index of subjects in which registered: - Index of companies - Search Offices - Financial statements of entities
16 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
2. Search financial leasing 3. Search pledge rights to movables and rights. APR allows the establishment of effective actions and companies, fast registration of the leasing contract and accurate records of the load of movable property. APR is associated with other state institutions and fully supports the project known as the Electronic Governance and OneStop-Shop. APR is a member of the most important international professional organisations: European Commerce Regiters’ Forum (ECRF) and European Business Register (EBR). The headquarters of the Agency are in Belgrade (Nikola Pasic Square 5/4), while it also has 13 organisational units located in major towns and cities throughout Serbia. Detailed information on the APR can be found
TOP INVESTMENTS IN SERBIA
M
ost of the foreign investments made in Serbia in the last eight years have been made in the service sector like banking, telecommunications, real estate and retail. These investments were mostly made through privatization of stateowned companies, i.e. through acquisitions made by privately-owned companies and banks. On the other hand, in the last two years there was a pronounced growth of Greenfield investments
in the country’s production sector. With over 100 such investments made in 2007 and 2008 alone, Serbia takes the second place in South East Europe. The country’s potential for attracting investments has been confirmed by a survey conducted by Pricewaterhouse Coopers which put Serbia in the third place when it comes to the investment appeal of the industrial sector in emerging economies. Also, Serbia took the seventh place when it comes to investments made in the service sector.
TOP 10 INVESTMENT IN SERBIA (2001 – 2009) Company Telenor Gazprom Neft Intesa Sanpaolo Philip Morris Mobilkom Stada AB InBev NBG Mercator Fondiaria SAI
Country Norway Russia Italy USA Austria Germany Belgium Greece Slovenia Italy
Industry Telecommunications Energy Banking Tobacco Telecommunications Pharmaceuticals Food and beverages Banking Retail Insurance
Investment Type Privatisation Privatisation Acquis. & priv. Privatisation Greenfield Acquisition Acquisition Privatisation Greenfield Privatisation
Investment Value (EUR mn) 1,602 947 660 611 570 495 427 425 240 220
Source: SIEPA
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 17
INTERVIEW
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
VESNA PERIĆ, DIRECTOR OF THE SERBIAN INVESTMENT AND EXPORT PROMOTION AGENCY (SIEPA)
“In the last eight years, Belgrade has attracted over five billion euros worth of foreign investments; the tax system provides many exemptions for investors, from grants to employment subsidies; quality of life in Belgrade sets the city apart from its regional counterparts.”
What are Belgrade’s advantages in relation to other cit-
ies in the region? Belgrade is the second largest city in Southeast Europe, after Bucharest, and domestic demand is constantly growing, due to improvements in living standards. In the last several years, the 18 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
increase of retail turnover has been constantly in double digits, while the portion of the consumption structure that luxury goods comprise is also growing. On the other hand, we have seen massive construction activities, in terms of top quality business premises – this shows the great economic potential of Belgrade, that will become even higher through new investments to be made in following years. Airport City Belgrade is a good example of this. Two years ago, OECD named this project the largest Greenfield investment in Southeast Europe. In addition to projects in the field of services, Belgrade has managed to attract significant production and Greenfield investments. Two factories stand out: Ball Packaging Europe, worth over €80 million, and the new plant built by German Knauf. These two companies found Belgrade an attractive investment location thanks to its educated workforce, experience in market economy, co-operation with western partners, having a better knowledge of foreign languages than the other countries of Southeast Europe and the readiness to continue learning and training. What makes Belgrade an excellent place for investments is its ideal geographical position: the city is situated on the very border with the European Union. Given that Belgrade is located on Pan-European Corridor 10, as well as the fact that the city has two navigable rivers, we can also confirm that transportation to EU markets is quick and easy.
What can Begrade offer the business world?
According to a great majority of foreign businessmen (and their number is constantly growing in Belgrade), quality of life is what sets the city apart from its regional counterparts. They usually single out the top restaurants and the countryside surrounding Belgrade as offering great opportunities for rest and recreation. It takes you only an hour to get to the seaside or a ski slope. There are international schools for children, cultural facilities and the well-known hospitality of our people, all of which ensures that foreign businessmen end up wanting to extend their stay in Belgrade and Serbia. In the last eight years, Belgrade attracted over five billion euros worth of foreign investments, which is more than the total investments made in any of the regional countries. In which way does the city and state support foreign investments? First of all, the tax system provides many exemptions for investors, who can count on state grants. Tax rates are low: income tax is only 10% and VAT is 18%. If foreign investors invest over three million Euros and employ at least 50 workers in produc-
In the last eight years, Belgrade attracted over ďŹ ve billion euros worth of foreign investments tion, they could receive between 2,000 and 5,000 euros in subsidies for each employee. In the service and research & development sectors, these amounts are higher and range between 2,000 -10,000 and from 5,000 to 10,000 euros for each new workplace. In addition to that, just a few weeks ago we significantly simplified the business registration system. Now the whole procedure is done in one place - the Business Registers Agency - and takes
only five to six days to complete. We expect business conditions to be further improved once comprehensive regulatory reform is completed in mid-2010. A third of all legal acts, which unnecessarily complicate business at present, will be annulled. What economic branches are needed in Belgrade and why?
Fast growth in trade, real estate and the banking sectors in recent years do not mean that there is no space for further development in these sectors. Belgrade is currently lagging behind most major cities in this part of Europe in terms of sales areas in shopping malls. In terms of the service sector, I think that the main opportunity lies in the IT industry, as well as in outsourcing business services, through the opening of call centres and similar projects. Belgrade has great potential for this type of investment, primarily due to fact that it is a large university centre that offers qualified IT developers and other educated staff with good knowledge of foreign languages. Belgrade is certainly an attractive location for investing in research and development. Our engineers and technical experts are renowned global-
EXCELLENT PLACE
QUALITY OF LIFE
DEVELOPMENT
Belgrade is excellent place for investments becouse of its ideal geographical position: the city is situated on the very border with the European Union.
According to a foreign businessmen, quality of life, the top restaurants and the countryside surrounding Belgrade offering great opportunities for rest and recreation.
Fast growth in trade, real estate and the banking sectors in recent years do not mean that there is no space for further development in these sectors. 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 19
INTERVIEW
ly. We need to find an adequate way to promote our intel How much time does a businessman need to set-up and launch his business in Belgrade? lectual potential to the world, because this is a major develThe procedures for setting up a company have already been opment opportunity. Finally, Belgrade and the surrounddrastically reduced. Investors find that the problem actualing areas provide great opportunities for the development ly lies in the insufficient offer and high price of land plots, of distribution centres and transport hubs in this part of as well as in complicated administrative procedures with reEurope, because we meet virtually all conditions: there is gard to construction. According to the World Bank, these an exit to international Corridor 10, two international navprocedures last an average of igable rivers - the Sava The global economic crisis is our chance nine months. That is why the and the Danube, airports, etc. Once the re- to direct investors towards Belgrade and Serbian government considers maining sections along provide them with good working condi- this issue as one of its priorities and is expected to adopt Corridor 10 are comtions and a chance to make money a new regulation pertaining pleted, customs proceto construction. This is one of the key regulation reforms, dures simplified and the state starts to provide support for which will enable faster development of the construction such investments, I think that other companies will follow market and simplification of civil procedures. The idea is to the example of Kraft, which opened its regional distribushorten the whole procedure to approximately 100 days. tion centre here last year. 20 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
Did the crisis affect the investment influx in Bel-
grade? The global crisis led to reduced investments on a global level and Belgrade is no exception. Virtually all companies are trying to battle the reduction in demand and a drop in income by reducing costs and postponing investment projects. However, in this situation a tendency that is becoming more pronounced in Serbia is one that sees a large number of companies from developed countries actively seeking low cost locations. For them, this is a way to ensure their longterm competitive advantage in an environment that is characterised by strong competition from the Chinese and other companies in developing countries, energy price increases and other factors that exert pressure on prices. For us, this is a possibility to jump on the train, so to speak, and direct some of those investments to Belgrade and Serbia. Our contacts with potential investors from the United States, France and other countries indicate a large interest shown
Our contacts with potential investors from the United States, France and other countries indicate a large interest shown for Serbia and Belgrade for Serbia and Belgrade. SIEPA outlines and promotes our advantages over other locations with a sense of great responsibility, primarily through direct communication with the managers of the global companies. Only a few weeks ago, we held a presentation in Paris for French investors, with over 80 senior French executives present – managers of companies like Alstom, EADS, Total and others. Only two years before, also in Paris, we held a presentation for only twenty managers. What are the biggest investment projects in the city
at this moment? Belgrade is buzzing with construction activities, i.e. real estate development. There are several large projects in progress and some of them will be completed soon, like the Sava Business Centre near the Hyatt Regency Hotel,
Energoprojekt’s building in New Belgrade, the new business centre built by Verano, Robne kuće Beograd (the Belgrade Department Stores) and many others. Upcoming investments in this sector will amount to more than two billion euros. However, a new factory building in Zemun, built by Ball Packaging, is by far the most important investment. This investment amounts to about €25 million and includes the production of can lids. We should also mention IKEA’s intention to come to the Serbian market. They have decided to build the first IKEA department store in Belgrade, which will be opened in about two years’ time.
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 21
NEW BELGRADE
NEW CITY - NE
N
ew Belgrade was a huge project in the former Yugoslavia. Ideas were very ambitious, but the reality turned into a very poor realisation. Instead of being the best and the only fully realised example of Le Corbusier’s dream of an ideal world, that whole part of town became known locally as the Big Dormitory. In the past few years, since the political handover of power in the period of transition that is still in progress, New Belgrade is becoming new again: re-finding, re-reading and remapping field, reforming itself into a genuinely NEW CITY, grabbing attention for itself and making a new identity, without compromises. Supported by a new set of legislation, new establishment and new system of urban planning philosophy, New Belgrade is becoming a great new city: the most developed part of Belgrade, supported by everything - from politics and economy to statistic and legislative. The inheritances of building structures were fascinated material to be remodulated and fill in the gaps in the area. In several examples of regenerating, New Belgrade blocks and formatting new urban forms will be presented by transformation in process, which is still in progress, as a transparent picture and result of transition which is happening in our society now. 22 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
EW IDENTITY
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 23
NEW BELGRADE
SAVA BUSINESS CENTRE SAVA BUSINESS CENTRe is a state of the art Class A office building comprising two 10-storey office towers located in one of the most dynamically developing areas of Belgrade. With its unique modern architectural, functional and quality design, SAVA BUSINESS CENTRe superbly answers to all the accommodation requirements of contemporary corporate business. The development offers approximately 18.350m2 (net rentable area) of well organized, modern office space and ground floor retail areas providing high-tech solutions, sophisticated telecommunications and exclusivity in terms of location and quality.
GTC BUSINESS CENTRE GTC Serbia is a part of the GTC International Group, an active developer on the Central and Eastern European real estate market since 1994. GTC recognised in Belgrade a vision of a major European centre of commerce, business, industry and transport. Belgrade is in the very heart of the Balkans and at the epicentre of all movement throughout Southeast Europe. It is with this in mind that GTC has conceived its projects in Belgrade, to build together with the city, to plant the seeds of its future growth, and to provide the essential structures which are essential to its development. As the importance of Belgrade expands, so too will its requirements for office space and business parks. 24 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
AIRPORT CITY Airport City Belgrade (ACB) is the first multi-use commercial facility in Serbia that merges the latest in building technology, together with a tenant focused approach. It is the first Business Park here, providing its tenants a �City within a City�. For those businesses that prefer their own space, ACB offers Tailor Made buildings for a business that wants to be a part of this exclusive community and needs the flexibility and details a custom built building can offer. Upon completion ACB will be in excess of 186,000 square meters of office, and tenant-friendly retail space. The offices are located in much more than a nice building; it is a part of the large Business Park development, where top businesses work amongst each other.
USCE The Usce complex, when completed in the following two years, will become one of the most modern and elite business centers in the Balkans. It will boast two towers each with 25 floors and a multifunctional officecommercial-sports centre. The net lettable area in the complex is 180,000 square metres. Underground there is hypermarket with over 12,000 square metres. There is also an underground floor of the shopping centre, while the remaining two floors of the centre are above ground. The shopping centre has total commercial space area of 36,000 square metres, featuring cafes, restaurants, boutiques, stores, furniture stores, banks and pharmacies. 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 25
HOTELS
HYATT REGENCY BEOGRAD ***** LOCATION: Hyatt Regency Belgrade is a modern, luxury hotel located in new Belgrade, Serbia, only five minutes by car from the city centre. The hotel is within walking distance of Sava Centre - the largest conference and concert venue in Belgrade. The hotel is 15 minutes from Belgrade airport and is also a host to Club Olympus spa and Health Club. FACILITIES: Business Centre, Hotel Shops, Car Parking, Car Rental, Metropolitan Grill, Tea House, Bar, Private Venue for Banquet Events, Fitness Centre and Spa, Indoor Swimming Pool , Treatments & Spa
Services, Personal Training MEETING CAPACITY (max): 700 guests TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 11 ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 301 ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: 600 ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: 301 rooms & suites, in-room electronic safe, High-speed internet, Cable tv, 24-hour room service CONFERENCE/BANQUET FACILITIES: Ballroom divisible into 3 Meeting Rooms, 4 Meeting Rooms, 1 Boardroom, Pre-Function space available
CONTACT: Milentija Popovica 5, 11070 Belgrade, Serbia tel: +381.11.301.1234, Fax:+381.11.311.2234 belgrade.regency@hyatt.com www.belgrade.regency.hyatt.com
CONTINENTAL HOTEL BEOGRAD ***** MEETING CAPACITY (MAX): 750 guests TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 8 ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 415 ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: 534 LOCATION: Located in the business district of new Belgrade, just across the bridge from the Belgrade city center and within 3 miles radius of all major convention facilities. Conveniently connected to Sava convention center by an interior corridor. GENERAL FACILITIES: 24 hour reception, 24 hour room service, Restaurant,
Bar, Business center, Covered parking, indoor swimming pool, tennis court, gym, Hairdresser, safe deposit box, Pets welcome ACCOMODATION FACILITIES: 415 air conditioned rooms, direct phone line in the room, Cable tv, Wireless internet CONFERENCE/BANQUET FACILITIES: Meeting rooms of various sizes and accommodation, Pacific and Atlantic rooms can be combined to accommodate up to 750 people, as can Mediterranean and Adriatic rooms.
CONTACT: Vladimira Popovica 10 11000 Belgrade, serbia tel: +381.11.220.4204, 220.4642, Fax: +381.11.311.14.02 reservation@continetalhotelbeograd.com www.continetalhotelbeograd.com
HOTEL METROPOL PALACE ***** MEETING CAPACITY (MAX): n/a TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: n/a ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 243 + suite ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: n/a LOCATION: 22 km from the airport and 1 km from the city centre ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: Metropol Palace is a historical hotel currently under a major renovation that will restore it to its former glory. The hotel is undergoing major renovation and will be reopened by the end of 2009. Hotel will feature approximately 195 luxurious rooms and suites 26 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
with deluxe amenities, gourmet restaurants, spa centre and spacious function rooms. Current banquet space, which is one of the largest in the city, will be enlarged and will represent modern function space able to host demanding events. GENERAL FACILITIES: Roof top restaurant & bar, All day family restaurant, Outdoor cafĂŠ, Lobby Bar, Spa, Casino, 24-hour concierge service,24-hour business corner with 2 working stations, Secretarial services,Wireless Internet Access, Laundry & dry-cleaning services, Shopping arcade, Private parking, Car rental services, etc.
CONTACT: Bulevar Kralja Aleksandra 69 11000 Belgra de, Serbia Tel: +381.11.3231,212 Fax: +381.11.3246,251 office@metropolpalace.com, www. metropolpalace.com
HOTEL BEST WESTERN **** MEETING CAPACITY (MAX): 600 guests TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 8 ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 176 ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: 280 LOCATION: The hotel is 3 km from the city center, in a residential part of Belgrade, surrounded by beautiful and quiet Banjica Park. It is 30 minutes transfer time from the airport and 15 minutes from major convention venues.
ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: 176 single and double rooms and suites, all equipped with: cable tv, high speed internet, air conditioner, mini-bar. Non smoking rooms available. Newspaper delivery available upon request. GENERAL FACILITIES 24-hour reception, restaurant, bar, free buffet breakfast, parking, safe deposit box, business center, facilities for disabled, tourist agency, gift shop.
CONTACT: Bulevar oslobodenja 56a 11000 Belgrade, serbia tel: +381.11.3090.506, 3090.401 Fax: +38 1.11.3095.506 salesbwhotelm@eunet.rs www.mladostturist.rs
HOTEL BEST WESTERN SUMADIJA **** MEETING CAPACITY (MAX): 120 guests TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 5 ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 104 ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: 208 LOCATION: The hotel is situated just 2 km from the Belgrade Fair, 5 km from city center and 22 km from the airport. Guests will appreciate the serenity of Ada Ciganlija Lake and Kosutnjak Forest located just 1 km from this Belgrade hotel.
ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: 104 air conditioned double rooms and suites with direct phone line, satellite TV, mini bar, safe deposit box, internet connection. Smoking and non smoking rooms available. GENERAL FACILITIES: Complimentary continental breakfast, 24 hours concierge, gym, guest laundry service, car rental desk, business center, parking 20 meters from the hotel, dry cleaning.
CONTACT: Sumadijski Trg 8 11000 Belgrade, Serbia Tel: +381.11.3054.202, 3054.203, Fax: +381.11.3554.368 office@hotelsumadija.com, www.hotelsumadija.com
HOTEL IN **** MEETING CAPACITY (MAX): 120 guests TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 5 ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 187 ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: 220 LOCATION: Situated in business district of new Belgrade, 9 km from the airport and 4 km from the city center. Within walking distance to congressional Sava Center and Belgrade arena sports complex.
ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: 187 rooms, including 18 Corner suites and 10 7th Floor suites. all rooms are air-conditioned, with cable TV and Wi-Fi internet. GENERAL FACILITIES: 24-hour reception,24-hour room service, gym, business center, parking, laundry service, incognito rooftop bar, infusion brasserie, facilities for disabled, pets welcome.
CONTACT: Bulevar Arsenija Carnojevica 56, 11000 Belgrade, serbia tel: +381.11.3105.355, 3105.354, Fax: +381.11.3105.351 frontoffice@inhotel-belgrade.rs, www. inhotel-belgrade.rs 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 27
HOTELS
HOLIDAY INN **** MEETING CAPACITY: 1500 TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 8 ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 140 ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: 209 Location: Belgrade’s Holiday inn is being built in business district of new Belgrade, right next to Expo XXI congress and exhibition center, to which it will be connected by an indoor corridor. Transfer time to other major conference venues is just five minutes. It is 20 minutes from Belgrade airport. GENERAL FACILITIES: Transfer – upon request, express check-out, Garage, exchange office, Safe deposit boxes at the re-
ception, 24-hour room service, Dry cleaning, Rent-a-car, Wireless internet, Fitness club, Late check out ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: 140 rooms including 2 rooms for those with disabilities, 42 standard single rooms, 27 single rooms with sofa-bed, 36 double rooms, 33 twin rooms. Executive Club rooms and suites, separate check-in/ check-out. All rooms have multi-line telephones with voice-mail and conference call function; fast internet; mini bar; airconditioning; satellite TV; daily evening maid service.
CONTACT: Spanskih Boraca 74 11000 Belgrade, Serbia Tel: +381.11.31.00.155, Fax:+381.11.31.00.555 sales@holiday-inn.rs, www.holiday-inn.com
HOTEL PRESIDENT **** ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 27 ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: 89 LOCATION: 30 km from the airport and 14 km from the city center in a quiet location, on 26 hectares of well kept lawns, park and flower beds ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: Hotel President, a pleasant manor that is the part of BG sport center Kovilovo, is located on the left bank of the Danube, just 14 km from the downtown Belgrade. Hotel President has 17 rooms and 10 suites on two floors, equipped with the luxurious furniture and all other facilities that match the world
highest standards in hotel industry (air-conditioning, direct phoning, wireless internet connection, cable TV, mini-bar, in-room safe deposit box), with modern bathrooms and balconies. GENERAL FACILITIES: Business centre, hotel restaurant, hotel bar, room service, parking space, well-lit secure car park. RECREATIONAL FACILITIES: Fitness room, outdoor swimming pool. Technical Facilities: Safe deposit box, direct phone line in the room, air-conditioned rooms, cable/satellite tv, wireless internet access in rooms.
CONTACT: BG sport Centre Kovilovo Zrenjaninski put 170, 11211 Belgrade, Serbia Tel: + 381.11.2075.200 Fax: + 381.11.2075.260 office1@bgsck.org.rs, www.president-belgrade.com
HOTEL PRESTIGE ***** INTERNET: n/a MEETING CAPACITY: n/a TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 250 ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 3 ACCOMMODATION CAPACITY: 32 LOCATION: Hotel Prestige is located just 5 km from the city center and 1 km from the Belgrade Fair, an exhibit hall and event complex. Nearby Topcider Park, Kosutnjak Park and ada Ciganlija, Belgrade’s beach on the Sava River, offer plenty of outdoor recreation, restaurants and cafes. ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: Hotel Prestige features state of the art, high 28 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
quality facilities, which meet global tourist industry criteria. The hotel offers four spacious luxury apartments and 30 comfortable rooms. All rooms are equipped with phone, internet connection, cable TV, a safe box and mini bar. GENERAL FACILITIES: Ideal venue for seminars, conferences, workshops and other events. The hotel features a restaurant, several conference rooms, a sports hall and gym, and a business center. Room service available from 7:00aM to 11:00 PM, parking, 24-hour security cameras, shuttle service available upon request.
CONTACT: Bulevar Vojvode Misica 24 11000 Beograd, Serbia Tel: +381.11. 3572.465 Fax: +381.11.3572.466 info@hotelprestige.rs www.hotelprestige.rs
HOTEL ZIRA LOCATION: Strategically located on Ruzveltova close to the Universities & 15 minutes walking time to downtown Belgrade and the Republic square. ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: 125 modern designer rooms including 8 de-Luxe rooms with flat screen TV, mini –bar, personal safe & central air-conditioning.
GENERAL FACILITIES: Zira Restaurant open daily from 06.30 hours to 23.00 hours serving Mediterranean& Regional specialities. Bar open to 01.00 hours. Free international telephone calls to residents of the hotel and free internet throughout the hotel Room service, daily laundry service, and free access to fitness centre for hotel residents. Relax Centre. Indoor parking. Over 30 shops in attached shopping centre.
CONTACT: Ruzveltova 35 Belgrade 11000, Serbia. Tel +381.11.3314.800 Fax +381.11.3314.801 info@zirahotels.com www.zirahotels.com
ADMIRAL CLUB **** After extensive renovation, the historic Admiral Club Beograd hotel has opened in Belgrade’s diplomatic quarter. With highspeed internet, conference facilities, travel and medical assistance and more, the hotel offers modern convenience amidst 19th century opulence. The exclusive Club is set among the gardens of Dorcal, home to numerous foreign diplomatic missions and the Royal Palace Compound.
MEETING CAPACITY (MAX): 2 x 30 TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 3 ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 17 rooms LOCATION: The Admiral Club Beograd is located in the oldest part of Belgrade called ‘Dorcol’, near The National Theatre and the bohemian part, ‘Skadarlija’. ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES: Hotel parking, comference facilities, business center, internet access, busines services, meeting rooms, in-room, internet access
CONTACT: Venizelosova 31, 11 000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11/ 3038 262 Fax: +381 11/ 3038 271 office@hoteladmiralclubbeograd.com www.hoteladmiralclubbeograd.com
HOTEL BALKAN **** The recently-renovated Balkan was built in 1936 and this budget hotel provides a total of 70 rooms, including five suites and semi suites. The rooms are classified in two categories: Comfort and Standard. The comfort rooms are much more preferable in comparison to the standard ones. All rooms are equipped with TV, telephone and private bathroom. A continental style breakfast is served in the hotel’s restaurant, where you may also find local and international dishes in the evening. Also available are a café and poolroom with a bar at the hotel.
LOCATION: The Hotel Balkan is located in the heart of Belgrade, within walking distance of shopping and business areas, as well as near all famous local attractions. ACCOMMODATION ROOMS: 94 TOTAL MEETING ROOMS: 2 MEETING CAPACITY (MAX): 150 PARKING AREA: n/a
CONTACT: Prizrenska 2, 11000 Belgrade Tel: +381 11 3636 000 info@balkanhotel.net http://www.balkanhotel.net 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 29
INTERVIEW
HOST CITY OF THE FUTURE
“Belgrade has all the prerequisites for professional hosting, but it also has quality of life.”
B
Belgrade has all the prerequisites for professional hosting, but it also has quality of life. Its abundant vitality, sense of humour and curiosity is why people never get bored in Belgrade. It is an unusual mosaic, built over centuries of overlapping civilizations in which everyone finds at least something that reminds him of home, wrapped up in the inimitable Belgrade charm. There is no place in the world with such a natural combination of oriental passion and european finesse. Also, contrary to common perception, the city is completely safe to visit. It is much safer than most other cities of two-millionplus residents and provides the services and amenities you can expect from a regular European capital. Lively cafes and bars, fashionable shops, innovative cuisine, theatres, museums, gal What gives Belgrade a comparative advantage when it leries and one of the coolest nightlife scenes in the whole of comes to staging congresses and conference? Europe. Belgrade is also a starting point for one or two-day exWhy Belgrade? Because it is a cursions to some of Sebia’s most new market and exciting city with Belgrade has strategic locations and beautiful medieval monastiries, extraordinary conference and expromising economic potential. It ethno villages, spas, wildlife reibit facilities, which abound with serves, scenic natural wonders, bussiness professionals in every is a compact, walkable city which such as Devil’s town, and archefield. offers remarkable convenience for ological sites. Come to Belgrade Situated on two major navigaand get ready to be surprised! hosting major events ble rivers and along major PanEuropean corridors, with a modern airport asnd lying on the What positives did you experience at your own congress crossroads between East and West, Belgrade is easily accesible. and what was lacking? It has strategic locations, promising economic potential and solBeing honoured to chair the congress of the European Society id infrastructure. It is a compact, walkable city which offers reof Gynecologic Oncology (ESGO), I was impressed by the motimarkable convenience for hosting major events and conferences. vation of everyone involved in the organisation to make our conBelgrade is Europe’s fastest growing congress destination. gress the best ever. Every single piece of work is fully co-ordinat-
elgrade’s popularity as a host city and venue for various congresses and conferences, covering various sectors and topics, is growing. To get the lowndown on the choice of Belgrade as a venue, we spoke to Dr Vesna Kesić, PhD., of the Clinical Centre of Serbia’s Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Chair of the European Society of Gynecologic Oncology (ESGO).
30 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
ed; everyone knows exactly what to do and all that has to be done is done professionaly. Our main partners are the major congress facility Sava Centre, the Tourist Organisation of Belgrade and exceptionally professional agency Mosaic, which is taking care of all social events. All of them give their best to provide the best choices and best offers, having in mind that this congress represents not only our medical profession, but our town and country. I should not forget to emphasise the role of the main organiser of the 16th European congress of gynecological oncology which is Kenes, world-renowned congress organiser. Their detailed and professional work found a productive soil in Belgrade, because today Belgrade is a hip dynamic city that is booming with new bussines and urban development projects. Essentialy, I don’t have any complaints about the process of congress organisation. On the contrary, I was suprised that many of my ideas and wishes I thought unrealistic could in fact be organised. How can Belgrade improve its congress tourism offer? I agree that there are still things to be improved. Belgrade is awakening after many years of difficult life. Once being the cultural heart of the Balkans, now it has to compensate for the years of isolation, years of poverty and years of social instability. Yet, Belgrade has never lost its spirit and now, when the doors are opened and opportunties are presented, Belgrade is eager to use them. Belgrade is constantly changing and progressiong. Now it has the workforce and potential for further development. You can easily select an appropriate venue and excellent service providers for anything needed. Whatever I might consider a weakness – such as the need for easier public transport, better branding or a lack of awereness of the community about the importance of hosting major international events – is changing from one day to another. Local information, tourist offers, souvenirs, etc. Everything is being improved, largely due to the enormous efforts of the Tourist Organisation of Belgrade. So, basically, it is all about how to select an appropriate venue and good service providers. Experienced PCOs and DMCs are available and the Belgrade Convention Bureau is there to assist. What advice would you give to an organisation consider-
ing Belgrade as a congress venue? “No problem” is the most commonly used phrase in Belgrade. Do your best to find good and professional partners in Belgrade, who will be able to realise all your wishes regarding the event you are organising. Publications like this one can largely help in identifying potential partners. Once you find them, there will indeed be “no problem”.
SELECTED VENUE
T
he 1st International congress on Neurocardiology is set to be held in Belgrade under auspices of two major international organisations: the International Society for Holter and noninvasive electrocardiology, ISHNE, and the European Federation of Autonomic Societies, EFAS. Speaking for our Guide, Dr Branislav Milovanovic, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, President of the 1st International Meeting on Neurocardiology, President of the Serbian Neurocardiological Society and Member of the EFAS Board, gives us his thoughts. “This meeting will be historical and multidisciplinary, with the participation of outstanding experts from the whole world.The excellent position of Belgrade, as an historical border between Eastern and Western civilizations situated on two major rivers, always attracts visitors for different reasons, including scientific. Belgrade’s geographic position is the first very important advantage. “The second adventage are young and creative people with decent English language knowledge and the natural hospitality that this region and country is very well known for. In my opinion, we also succeeded in our organisation for three very important scientific reasons.The first is the very high level of scientific knowledge of more of our groups related to the field of Neurocardiology.We are one of the national scientific groups from European societies with the biggest number of members and also the fourth established Neurocardiological society in the world. The second important point is experience in the organisation of meetings several times per year, as well as the important future task of organising the EFAS annual meeting for 2011, also in Belgrade. “Finally, in this time of economic crisis it is easier to find financial sources for Belgrade – confirming that, generally, the total expenses of organising a meeting are less here than in Western countries. “When it comes to what Belgrade lacks as I venue, I would say that this was more about psychological prejudices linked to the country’s recent difficult history of war in the former Yugoslavia. “Finally I will conclude with the words of one very famous American professor who stated last year, during a visit to Serbia, that he had an exciting lecture in Belgrade, with more participants than in New York, a very active discussion and feelings of one strong scientific spirit.”
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 31
NIGHTLIFE, FOOD & DRINK
32 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
T OF CON
HE CITY NTRASTS
I
f there’s one thing that Belgrade does not lack, it is places to go out. In fact, the nightlife here is far more popular and spread than in bigger cities throughout Europe! Serbians are people who will party every single day, no matter if it’s Tuesday or Saturday. Therefore, you will find pretty much every club working during the week, and cafes being open until 1am. Mainly in summer time, floating river clubs, called splavovi, are one of the favourite places to go out. Everything works until 4am, and you can frequently see people eating after clubs at local food kiosks around the city. Belgrade is a city that does not sleep. The selection of bars, pubs, cafes, and clubs is huge to be listed here, so instead what you will find here is a set of general guidelines, recommendations and advices on where you can go, what you can see etc. One of the advantages of Belgrade nightlife is that city is pretty safe so you can go basically anywhere at any time. Even in the nineties during the authoritarian regime in Serbia - Belgrade was still relatively safe place to go out and have some fun with the nicest women on planet. Another advantage of Belgrade nightlife, compared to neighboring countries, is that the prices of Belgrade taxis are relatively low and if you are taking regular registered company you can have cheap drive to your hotel at any time. When considering clubs, it depends on which type of music you want to listen to. Some of the clubs play Serbian turbo folk music; the others stay loyal to electro, house music or rock.If you are up for some Serbian music then check RICH, Vanilla, Teatro or Mistique. On the other hand, if you would like to listen to some electro or house music, then check Barutana, Anderground, Mr. Stefan Braun Belgrade or Magacin. In the summer time, don’t miss some of the best Belgrade floating river bars/ clubs such as: Monza (for drinks/eating), Amsterdam (restaurant by day, club by night), Keops (best pancakes in town!) or for partying Ambis, Hua Hua, Blaywatch, H2O, Sound, Freestyler etc. Among clubs and splavs, you can also enjoy your time in some of the cafes, bars or even casinos. When taking into consideration that Serbians go partying around 12am or 1am, it’s good idea to start a long night or just chill out in some of the Belgrade bars. Some of the bars worth visiting are: Bali, Bar Central (cocktail bar), Balance, Downtown, Freska, Cruise or visit two of the Belgrade’s most famous streets for cafes: Strahinjica Bana street and Njegoseva street. 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 33
NIGHTLIFE, FOOD & DRINK
S
erbians are very proud of their food which is heavy on grilled meats and sausages, local cheeses and bread. Local produce is fresh and organic, without any preservatives. Belgrade has hundreds of restaurants specializing in local cuisine and international food. Overall, prices are cheaper comparing to Western Europe with main dishes ranging from 8-25$ per person. One of the favourite Serbian food is rostilj, a large plate of various unseasoned grilled meats, or any possible variety of grilled chicken wrapped in bacon and stuffed with cheese. It is possible to offer side salad with it, or plates of grilled vegetables, crepes etc. Also, pljeskavica is Serbian “version of ” hamburger. It is very popular fast food meal as you can buy it on mostly every food kiosk. Try Stepin Vajat, Duff or Kod Lokija for the best pljeskavica in town! Snacking and eating on the go in Belgrade are easy and cheap. Besides meat, bakeries – called pekara – are everywhere in the city centre, where you will find a
“Sarma” - Serbian stuffed cabbage rolls known as “sarma” add another dimension to the Easter offerings 34 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
wide assortment of breads, sweet and savoury pastries, sandwiches and pizza on offer. Don’t miss the drinkable yoghurt which is the perfect match with warm bread! Foods that vegetarians and meat eaters alike should try include kajmak and ajvar. It is also worth visiting a pijaca (green market) to buy some fresh fruit, vegetables and other grocery items. The farmer’s market at Zeleni Venac, close to the Hotel Moscow, is one of the largest – and the one with the least expensive merchandise – in the city. Contained in a newly-built complex, it makes for an enjoyable Saturday morning experience, with the lively hustle and bustle of people milling about and stall-owners trying to attract customers.
“Cevapcici” - These casingless sausages made of ground lamb, beef and sometimes pork are great as a main course or appetizer with “ajvar.”
Depending on the season, an amazing assortment of fruit and veg can be found in farmer’s markets, including watermelons, olives, wild mushrooms and fresh figs. Take the time to explore the stalls, and compare the quality and prices of the produce. There are a handful of international restaurants, including Japanese, Chinese and Indian. These are moderately priced to very expensive. Many dine out at “Peking” restaurant, and “Mao Tao” is an excellent choice as well for Chinese. Dju-Dju, “Moon” (in Makedonska 30) and Ikki Sushi Bar are perfect places for those who like sushi or other tasty Japanese dish-
Roasted Eggplant-Pepper Spread (“Ajvar”) “Ajvar” can be spread on bread like “pogacha,” as a vegetable dip, and even a sandwich spread
es. Zapata’s is the best (and pretty much only) Mexican restaurant in town and “Cosy” (Makedonska 30) the best French Café with excellent food and prices (our favorite one too). DRINKS First of all, Serbians are mostly drinking tap water as it is perfectly safe. Although, there is a wide range of bottled water that can be bought in grocery stores, supermarkets etc.
On the other hand, Serbians love beer, and it is possible to buy a variety of domestic beers such as Jelen, Lav, MB, Pils,... along with a few imported beers, at very cheap prices. The domestic beers are quite decent. Made in Serbia beers also include Heineken, Amsteel, Tuborg, Stella Artois, and Beck’s. Belgrade holds a Beer Festival annually in August. Local wines can be good, although more expensive tends to mean more drinkable, and many of the less expensive bottles are less than satisfactory. The national alcoholic drink is rakija, a Serbian brandy that is very strong and makes a good souvenir. It could be made from plum, peach, pear and it’s really strong! HOW TO TOAST, SERBIAN STYLE Like everywhere, Serbs love to toast when in good company, whether it’s in a pub or at the home with friends. When toasting in Serbia, it is expected that you look your friends at the table directly in the eyes whilst clinking glasses as a sign of respect. Say ‘Živeli!’ (Cheers!) to everyone and take a sip. Repeat as necessary, and enjoy a night out in Belgrade! If you prefer coffee, there are a couple of places worth visiting. Strahinjica Bana Street is the best known for its trendy cafes. On this street, cafes are full even on weekdays. All cafés serve the usual continental coffees, such as espresso and cappuccino. However, regular coffee comes in the form of Turkish coffee, not filtered coffee. Also very popular is whipped instant coffee, commonly referred to simply as ‘Nes’ (as in, Nescafé). A cafe called Mani Prag (across from the Hotel Prag) is thought by some to offer the best “Serb Coffee” in the world. Out of numerous cafes, the best ones are: Insomnia, KontraBar, Buongiornio (also a pastry shop), Nachos, Veprov Dah (a scottish pub), Duomo (Italian and Mediterranean restaurant and cafe), Ipanema. The second café zone is Obilicev Venac (a street parallel to Knez Mihailova) and the third café zone (also going out zone) is the quay next to hotel Yugoslavia in Zemun. On the quay are numerous river boats (splavovi), many of them are cafes, restaurants and clubs. 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 35
AROUND BELGRADE
SKADARLIJA A key attraction is Belgrade’s bohemian quarter, where little has changed over the past century and a half. it consists of a row of charming old taverns, numerous galleries and antique shops along an uneven, Turkish-style cobbled street. At the beginning of the last century, this was the gathering place of actors, journalists, painters and others who loved fine wine, tasty grilled meat and intelligent conversation. Belgrade people and their guests still like to take walks in this quarter, and the spirit of bygone times is still preserved in its restaurants - tri sesira (the three Hats), Dva jelena (the two deer), Ima dana (there’s time), Skadarlija, Zlatni bokal (the golden Jug), as well as by street poets and painters. Skadarlija is located in the city center, downhill from the national theatre.
STRAHINJICA BANA This street is also known by Belgraders as “silicon valley” for reasons that we will let you discover for yourself. it is a beautiful shaded narrow streetscape lined with some of the city’s most upscale cafes. it is one of the city’s very trendy places to see and be seen.
KNEZ MIHAJLOVA Belgrade’s famous shopping street stretches from Terazije to Kalemegdan and is the city’s main promenade. it was named after Knez Mihailo, Knez Milos Obrenovic’s younger son, who finally liberated Serbia from the Turks as well as introduced nu36 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
merous reforms and brought the European spirit into what had been an ordinary ottoman province. The street is a pedestrian-only area, and has many boutiques, galleries, various representative offices, as well as many exquisite buildings and homes built towards the end of 19th century.
REPUBLIC SQUARE The city’s central square was built at the former site of the notorious Stambol gate, which was the main entrance to the city in the Turkish era. Today, it features the buildings of the national theatre, national Museum, several cafes, garden restaurants and fountains. The statue of Knez Mihailo by Enrico Pazzi dominates the square and marks the favorite meeting place for generations of Belgrade people who call it “Kod Konja” Serbian for “by the horse.”
TERAZIJE Terazije (Turkish for “water tower”) got its name after the huge reservoir which directed the water towards lower parts of the city. Terazije is overlooked by the Moskva Hotel, built in 1906 as well as the Balkan and Kasina hotels, and Albania Palace. Albania bears the name of an old tavern whose site it now occupies. In the late 1930’s, during ground works for the new building’s foundation, a mammoth’s bones were found there. Albania long held the title of the tallest building in the Balkans. The Terazije Fountain across the street, a work by Franz Loran, built in 1860, also attracts much attention.
KOSANCICEV VENAC On the hill overlooking the Sava port, in the area where old city fortifications and palisades used to be, connecting two entrances to the city (Sava gate and Varos gate), the street Kosancicev venac stretches today. it bears the name of a hero from the Battle of Kosovo (between Serbs and Turks, in 1389), and is still cobbled Turkish-style, in memory of the ancient times. Today, it abounds with art studios and galleries, and there is also the University of Arts Rector’s Office.
CATHEDRAL CHURCH Built in 1840, this is neither the oldest nor the largest church in Belgrade, but is in many ways the most important. it was built across from the Serbian orthodox Church’s Patriarchy, and is dedicated to Holy archangel Michael. this is the resting place of Holy emperor Uros, Knez Milos and Knez Mihailo of the Obrenovic dynasty, and many church dignitaries. Also in front of the church are the graves of Serbian educators Vuk Karadzic, who created the modern Cyrillic alphabet, and Dositej Obradovic, who was the father of Serbia’s education system. Across from Cathedral Church is the tavern the Question Mark (“?“), which has not changed its appearance or business in almost two centuries.
ROYAL COURTS In Dedinje, Belgrade’s luxury residential area, is the royal courts complex. The court of King Aleksandar Karadjordjevic the First and his wife Marija was built in 1929, and eight years
later, in the immediate vicinity, Beli dvor (White Court) was built for their sons Petar, Tomislav and Andrej. The complex covers over 135 hectares, and, in addition to the royal courts, comprises many ancillary buildings. The courts are open for organized tours on weekends, and visitors can see the staterooms and numerous works of art kept there. His Highness Prince Aleksandar Karadjordjevic, heir to the throne, and his family live there now.
PARLIAMENT SQUARE This is the area that features both the Serbian Parliament and the old Royal Palace on Kralja Milana Street, near Terazije. Visitors can see the old court, built in 1884, where the Obrenovic dynasty members used to live. Today it houses the Belgrade City Council, and until early 20th century, next to it was the building where the last royal couple from the Obrenovic family, Queen Draga and King Aleksandar, was killed. Soon after the assassination, the building was demolished and a lawn and garden were set up in its place.
ZEMUN Short, narrow streets, the promenade by the Danube Quay, and barges converted into taverns and restaurants are only some of the things you will see in Zemun, a place that until the First World War had developed as a separate city and today is a part of Belgrade. Zemun was once the furthest eastern outpost in Austria. On Gardos, the hill watching over Zemun, is the Millennium tower, built in 1896 to celebrate one thousand years of the Hungarian empire. It offers a magnificent view of the Danube, Belgrade. Belgrade 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 37
WALKING & CYCLING CYCLE TRACKS At the moment, in Belgrade exists three cycle tracks that have been recently reconstructed. • Track A starts at Dorćol Marina on the banks of the Danube - Sava River bank - Ada Ciganlija - 7.5 km • Track B: Hotel Jugoslavija - banks of the Danube and Sava - Blok 45 The two tracks meet at Brankov most where there is a lift for cyclists. Track C: Round the Ada Ciganlija Lake - 8 km.
DANUBE QUAY From the Sava Passenger Dock past Nebojša’s Tower to the Sports Centre on the banks of the Danube. The bicycle track which leads all the way to Ada Ciganlija starts here.
T
he most famous and attractive pedestrian zone in Belgrade is Knez Mihailova street, but in reality, people rather go there to shop than to walk. Therefore there are some other places accessible for a gentle stroll in the urban countryside (partly by bike too): 38 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
DANUBE & SAVA RIVER BANK The built-up quay begins in the old part of Zemun, going past the Hotel Jugoslavija, until it reaches the confluence of the Sava and Danube, and then passes under the bridges of Belgrade until you reach Blok 45 in Novi Beograd. For most of its length it passes by a large number of cafés, clubs and floating restaurants.
KALEMEGDAN From Kalemegdan, Belgrade’s largest park, you begin a walk through the history of Belgrade as inscribed on the walls of the Belgrade Fortress.
ADA CIGANLIJA Around the Sava Lake there are 7 km of surfaced pedestrian paths with many cafĂŠs and restaurants. You can, of course, turn off into the less accessible wooded parts of Ada Ciganlija.
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 39
SPORT & LEISURE
CHOOSE YOUR FAVOURITE SPORT
Whether you are an active or recreational sportsman, or just a spectator, you will find what you are looking for in Belgrade. This city on two rivers, surrounded by a sea of green, with around 1,000 sports facilities for almost all sports, is not short of places for active leisure. And in the city of the World Champions of basketball, volleyball, water polo and tennis, a major sporting event takes place almost every week.
40 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
T
GOLF COURSE ADA-CIGANLIJA The Golf course is located on the most beatiful part of Ada Ciganlija, only four kilometres from the (Belgrade) city centre. Spread over 35 hectars, the golf course has nine holes combining to make a total length of 4,860m. The courses’ construction lasted over two years, as the intention was to produce a high quality golf course whitch would live up to the highest standards, including the design, irrigation system, as well as natural and artificial obstacles. (lakes, bunkers, etc.) The golf complex on Ada Ciganlija, as anywhere else in the world, is combined from three basic and equally important segments: Driving range - opened 2002. Golf terrain - opened 2003. Club house - opened 2006. As a member of the European Golf Assosiation (EGA), Golf club Belgrade had to make sure that every segment was built according to the high standards of this European institution.
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 41
SPORT & LEISURE
TENNIS:
IVANOVIĆ, JANKOVIĆ, ĐOKOVIĆ In what seems like a blink, Serbian players have become a force in professional tennis, with Ivanovic, Jankovic and Djokovic leading the way. In January 2007, Jankovic, 22, moved into the top 10. Djokovic broke through in March, and is No. 6. Last month, Ivanovic joined them. She ranks seventh. Drawing from a population of only 10 million, Serbia has as many players in the top 10 as Russia and the United States. Serbia’s top players take their jobs as ambassadors of their country seriously. “I bet a lot of people, basically 90 percent of the people, didn’t hear about our country until maybe this moment when they saw where we are from,” said Djokovic, 20. “I think just showing up and playing and smiling and giving positive energy, it gives a lot of advantage for you in the future and for your country, as well.” 42 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
The players, dark-haired, well mannered and fluent in several languages, came to the sport differently. Each ended up training outside Serbia because it did not have proper training facilities or coaches for toplevel players.They developed a love for a sport that did not have a great tradition in Serbia. Role models were scarce. Monica Seles, born in what was then Yugoslavia, moved to the United States in 1985. Slobodan Zivojinovic remains the most famous male Serbian tennis player. In 1987, he reached No. 19 in the rankings. Team sports like basketball, volleyball and soccer have always been more popular in Serbia, but Jankovic, Ivanovic and Djokovic chose tennis anyway. And they kept at it, even when it was challenging because of the conflict in their homeland.
“HIPPODROME BELGRADE” The hippodrome at Careva Ćuprija is actually the oldest sporting facility in Belgrade. At the behest of King Aleksander, on 15th November 1920, the assosiation of Danube riders (Dunavsko Kolo jahaca “Knez Mihajlo”) were given state property for a usage period of 75 years, free of charge. The reason stated: “anticipating the need for a permamnent horse race tracking field”. When the first derby took place a year later, it marked the begining of a wonderful tradition which has endured to this day. It turned out to be one of the most prestigious sporting events in Belgrade. Hippodrome Belgrade is a proud host of Belgrade
and Serbian horseracing championships, as well as other ancillary events on every Sunday from May to September. The usual Sunday programme starts with two hours of show jumping, followed by horse races from two to seven pm. There are numerous activites to be engaged in during a Sunday afternoon at the Hippodrome. You can either enjoy the horsing races, place some bets to make it more interesting, or have lunch at the Pastuv Restaurant – one of Belgrade’s hot spots. Besides hosting the horseracing championships, Hippodrome Belgrade is also a proud host of other manifestations, such as concerts.
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 43
CONFERENCE & EXIBITION VENUES
SAVA CENTRE The Sava Centre is an international congress, cultural and business centre of various multi-functional activities located in New Belgrade. It has the largest auditorium in the whole of the former Yugoslavia, hosting numerous large scale foreign and domestic events and performances. The construction of the then largest congress hall in Yugoslavia began in 1976. It was completed just three years later, in 1979. The designer and team manager of the project was Stojan Maksimovic. Most of the construction, together with infrastructure around Sava Centre, was completed in 1977. One of the first congresses to be hosted there was the IMF annual meeting. When the Sava Centre marked its 30th anniversary, a substantial amount of money was invested in the reconstruction of the glass facade. City authorities funded the broken glass on the facade, as well as audio equipment for concerts, while seats were replaced in the Great Hall. Names such as Placido Domingo, B. B. King, Zubin Mehta, the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra and many more have performed at Sava Centre. Also, it is the venue of the Miss Serbia competition and Serbian National Song Contest called Beovizija It has 69,720m2 of usable space and 100,000m2 overall, including a theatre hall with 4,000 seats, 15 conference halls, an exhibition area and a number of other facilities. Annually, it hosts more than half a million visitors.
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BELGRADE ARENA
The Belgrade Arena is one of Europe’s biggest multi-functional indoor sporting arenas, located in New Belgrade. It is designed as a universal hall for many sporting events, including basketball, tennis, handball, volleyball, athletics as well as different cultural events and other programmes. With total space covering 48,000m2 and a total capacity of up to 23,000 seats, it is among the largest indoor arenas in Europe. Its costs were estimated at ₏70 million. The construction started in 1991 but, due to a bad economic period and war, the construction experienced financial problems and the Belgrade Arena only finally opened its doors for public use on 4th November, 2006. After it received its permanent licence for public use. One of the biggest events to take place in the Arena was the Eurovision Song Contest 2008. Other big events held in the Arena include Euro Basket 2005, European Judo Championships 2007, and concerst like those of Iron Maiden, Phil Collins, Lenny Kravitz, Enrique Iglesias, etc.
HYATT REGENCY BELGRADE
THE CONTINENTAL HOTEL BELGRADE
Hyatt Regency Belgrade is a modern, luxury hotel located in New Belgrade, only five minutes by car from the city centre and within the walking distance of Sava Centre- the largest conference and concert venue in Belgrade. Besides its 302 guest rooms, several restaurants, Club Olympus Fitness Centre and Spa, it also provides a ballroom divisible into 3 Meeting Rooms, 4 Meeting Rooms and 1 Boardroom. Spacious, elegant and well-equipped meeting rooms, coupled with an attentive and highly professional staff, have made Hyatt Regency Belgrade the leading venue in town for successful meetings, conferences and banquets. Easy access to this area, ample space behind the scenes, possibilities of including additional meeting and function equipment at the client’s request - including spacious catwalks, special lighting, installations for live TV and radio broadcasts, booths for simultaneous interpretation and many more features - ensure that the client always receives a tailor-made set-up for his or her special event at Hyatt Regency Belgrade.
The Continental Hotel Belgrade with its 415 rooms provides all services of the 5 star hotel. This includes 2 restaurants, banqueting facilities up to 1.400 persons, indoor swimming pool, fitness, sauna, open air tennis court, business center and 24 h room service. The hotel is designed for business travels and international tourism. It is easily accessed by a nearby highway. Continental Hotel Beograd consists of 8 spacious multi-purpose banqueting areas, which provide ambience suitable for a large variety of gatherings and performances. It can host from 20 to 1440 guests, offering the largest function rooms in Belgrade: Atlantic and Pacific (840m2). Also, it’s possible to use wireless internet connection, Club Lounge on the 6th floor of the Hotel, board room and lounge equipped according to the highest international standards. Support services that are available including: courier service, flower arrangements, photographer, music etc.
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 45
CONFERENCE & EXIBITION VENUES
EXPO XXI BELGRADE
BELGRADE FAIR – BEOGRADSKI SAJAM International Trade Fair Belgrade became a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in 1991. It is a closed type Club, for the World Trade Centre Belgrade members, Belgrade Fair exhibitors and media representatives. A pleasant Club facility for meetings, promotions, technically completely equipped for presentations, promotions, press conferences, possible organization of cocktail parties and catering services.
EXPO XXI Belgrade International Expocentre is part of Expomedia Group’s EXPO XXI International Expocentres chain, which includes venues in Warsaw, Cologne and New Delhi. The events industry in the Balkan region is seeing rapid development with many international organizers looking for suitable space in which to hold their events. It provides organisers with the highest levels of service, offers unlimited event possibilities and will fulfill Belgrade’s need for a brand new multifunctional venue, which responds to the demands of today’s organizers. With 2,500m2 of column free, multi-functional space, EXPO XXI Belgrade is ideal for small, niche exhibitions and mid size events. The space can be also adopted for small or large scale conferences, congresses and seminars to host over 2,500 delegates.
46 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
MEDIA CENTRE BELGRADE MEDIA CENTRE was founded by the Independent Association of Journalists of Serbia in 1994, as the only multimedia organisation to provide wide-ranging media services covering the Southeast Europe region. In a very short period of time, Media Centre managed to build an image as the only place where all events of public interest may be presented efficiently and professionally. With its competent staff and extensive experience, Media Centre offers the right path to successful presentations, promotions and campaigns to all its clients. At the same time, good cooperation with the media, consulting services, media monitoring and other activities from the Media Centre’s portfolio allow us to provide effective and successful public appearance. Media Centre is synonymous with: • Press conferences • Professional approach to all projects • Presence in most of the electronic and print media on the same or the following day
AIR TRANSPORT
There are non-stop flights to Belgrade from a number of European cities, while international airlines offer one-stop connecting flights from virtually anywhere in the world. Nikola Tesla Airport is only 18 km from the city centre and is one of the safest airports in the world. The same can be said of the national airline, JAT Airways, while the airport at SurÄ?in is also used by many international airlines. AIRLINE COMPANIES Airline companies servicing Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. For arrival and departure times please visit: www.beg.aero JAT AIRWAYS Tel: +381.11. 3112.123 Fax: +381.11. 675.365 www.jat.com AEROFLOT RUSSIAN AIRLINES Tel: +381.11.3286.064 Fax: +381.11.3286.083 www.aeroflot.ru AEROSVIT UKRAINIAN AIRLINES Tel: +381.11.3283.430 Fax: +381.11.3283.531 aerosvit@eunet.yu www.aerosvit.com
AIR FRANCE Tel: +381.11.2638.222 Fax: +381.11.2638.378 www.airfrance.com
CZECH AIRLINES Tel/Fax: +381.11.3614.590 ok.beg@eunet.yu www.csa.cz
ALITALIA Tel: +381.11.3245.000 Fax: +381.11.3235.267 alitalia@yubc.net www.alitalia.com
GERMANWINGS (4U) Tel: +353.01.6058.442 www.germanwings.com
AUSTRIAN AIRLINES Tel: + 381.11.3248.077 Fax: + 381.11.3248.783 osbeg@austrian.com www.austrian.com AVIOGENEX Tel: +381.11.2600.445 Fax: +381.11.3116. 914 www.aviogenex.com BRITISH AIRWAYS Tel: +381.11.3281.303 Fax: +381.11.2639.629 ba-beg@eunet.yu www.britishairways.com
booking@mgx.cg.yu www.montenegroairlines.com OLYMPIC AIRLINES S.A. Tel: +381.11.3036.850, 3036.851 olybeg@eunet.yu www.olympicairlines.com
LUFTHANSA Tel: +381.11.3034.944 Fax: +381.11.3225.009 info@lufthansa.co.yu www.lufthansa.com www.lufthansa.co.yu
SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES Tel: +381.11.3030.140 Fax: +381.11.3248.625 www.swiss.com
MONTAVIA Tel: +381.11.3620.690, 3620.691 ops@montavia.com www.montavia.com
TUNISAIR Tel: +381.11.3233.174 Fax: +381.11.3247.900; tunisair@sezampro.yu www.tunisair.com
MONTENEGRO AIRLINES Tel: +381.11.2621.122 Fax: +381.11.2181.861
TURKISH AIRLINES Tel: (+381 11) 303 6195, 303 6290 www.thy.com
2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 47
DESTINATION
HOW TO REACH BELGRADE? BY PLANE
Belgrade is serviced by Nikola Tesla International Airport, which is 12km from the city centre. It is the home base of JAT Airways, Serbia’s flag carrier airline, which flies to nearly 40 destinations worldwide.
Belgrade is the intersection of the roads of Eastern and Western Europe which lead to the Morava-Vardar valley and Nišava-Marica valley to the shores of the Aegean Sea, to Asia Minor and to the Middle East Other major airlines fly to Belgrade, such as British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines etc. Discount and no-frills carriers such as Ryanair, EasyJet and Wizz, however, have yet to make their entrance in the Serbian market, which makes the cost of flying to and from the city a bit higher than other destinations. There are shuttle busses to the city center from the airport, operated by both Jat and Lasta. These will pick up and drop off passengers at the Hotel Slavija (JAT) and the central train station (Lasta). The fares are about 200 RSD (~€2.20) for the Jat shuttle, and 80 RSD (~€0.90) for the Lasta bus.
BY TRAIN
The Central Train Station is situated in the city center, where all national and international trains stop. There are several train connection from Budapest- Vienna and Zagreb-Ljubljana-Munich-Zurich. Generally, trains should not be too late (rarely up to one hour) and usually are very safe. here are also direct (day and night) trains from Bucharest, Kiev, Moscow, Skopje, Thessaloniki, Istanbul (21h) and Sofia, and an overnight train from Bar, Montenegro to Belgrade.
BY BUS
Serbian only, so ask for information inside the terminal. Ticket reservations and purchases can’t be done online; they have to be bought at the terminal building. Be aware that most coach drivers will charge you a fee for baggage handling in the cargo compartment, though this is not a uniform practice with international travel. Also be aware that drivers rarely speak English or any other foreign language. Inform yourself about your trip prior to departure as much as you can; if in doubt, ask a fellow passenger for assistance. For international trips to Europe, Lasta is the Eurolines carrier. Make sure to either secure your belongings, or take them with you when disembarking on breaks in the trip.
Belgrade’s central bus station is next door to the central train station, in Karadjordjeva Street. Whilst coach services to national and international destinations are frequent, departure times are usually reliable, but arrival times may not be. Timetables aren’t clearly posted; the timetables that are there are in 48 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
BY CAR
If coming north from Subotica and Novi Sad, the E-75 highway is recommended, as well as driving to
Belgrade from the south. There is also a major road called Ibarska magistrala, which provides approach from south-west (direction of Montenegro, for example). From the west, use the E-70 highway (from Zagreb, Ljubljana etc.). Major roads can be used coming east and north-east from Vršac and Zrenjanin. Serbia’s only highways are parts of E-70 and E-75 roads and the highway passes right through Belgrade without a bypass, causing large unavoidable traffic jams on the Gazela bridge and at the Mostar junction.
BY BOAT As the capital lies where the rivers Sava and Danube meet. Passenger ships enable you to reach every place along the Danube in a very convenient and meditative manner with many fascinating attractions along it, but it is a quite slow and rather expensive way of travelling.
GETTING AROUND BELGRADE Belgrade has an extensive public transport network, covering almost all areas of the old city, Novi Beograd, Zemun and other out-lying areas. All tickets must be validated in manually-operated stamping machines inside the vehicle. BY BUS: there are over 120 urban and over 300 suburban bus lines. The area around Zeleni Venac is a major bus hub in the city center, with many lines going to and from Novi Beograd and Zemun stopping there. Tickets can be bought at kiosks for RSD 42 (~0,45€) or RSD 80 (~0,90€) from the bus driver. Don’t forget to validate the ticket for each ride, as there are occasional controls. BY TRAM: There are 12 tram lines in Belgrade, three of which are connected to New Belgrade. Line 2 is famous in the city with a circular route, running in both directions. The circle is known as krug dvojke (#2’s circle) and rings the central city streets. Line 3 is famous for a beautiful neighborhoods it goes trough, particularly Miloš’s Konak Park. By trolleybus: Trolleybuses run strictly in the Old
Belgrade, connecting the city center to east and south-east. There are eight trolleybus lines, operated, which are very slow. BY TAXI: Taxis are cheap (by European standards) and plentiful, and you can either stop one in the street, or call a taxi company. Ordering a taxi by phone will usually attract a 10 - 20% discount off the final price. Make sure that you ride only in licensed cabs, which carry a little blue sign with the city coat of arms and a number on it, or you may end up paying too much. Never take a privately owned cab (the ones with the white marker on the top that does not list the name of the company), since you can pay up to four times the normal price. Avoid using taxis in front of airports, bus and train stations! It doesn’t matter even if they are licensed, these guys have removed their taximeters and will almost certainly rip you off. As of July 2008, the flag fall for starting a ride is RSD 119 (1.5€), and the rate is RSD 46 per kilometre (1st tarriff) or RSD 56 per kilometre (2nd tarriff, at night and weekends). 2009 / Running Business in Belgrade 49
USEFUL INFORMATION
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Citizens of the following countries do not need to obtain visas before entering serbia: a. Nationals provided holding all types of passports: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bolivia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Holy See (Vatican), Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Israel, Japan, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Romania, San Marino, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Tunisia, United States of America. b. Nationals provided holding diplomatic, official passports and ordinary passports with indication “on business”: Armenia, Azerbaijan, China, DPR Korea, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Russian Federation, Ukraine. c. Nationals provided holding diplomatic and official passports: Ecuador, Guinea, Pakistan, Peru, Turkey. d. Nationals provided holding diplomatic passports: Egypt e. Nationals provided holding ordinary passports: Mexico Foreign nationals visiting Serbia who are required to obtain visas at the diplomatic or consular mission of Serbia need: • Valid Passport; • Letter of invitation (verified by the competent Serbian authorities) or an invitation by a company for a business visit or a receipt of an authorised tourist company certifying that the travel arrangement has been paid for (letter of credit or other payment receipt); • Return ticket; • Proof of sufficient funds in hard currency and
• Certificate that a health fund shall cover the medical costs in Serbia, if any. Transit visa applicants are required to obtain a visa for the country they will enter after their transit through Serbia. For up to date information on visa requirements, visit the Consular section of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic ofSerbia website at: www.mfa.gov.rs PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AND HOURS OF WORK Government offices are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday. On Fridays they often close early, unofficially, anytime after 12. Most are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Banks are open from 8.30am to 7pm, except Saturdays and Sundays. Businesses working hours are from 8am to 5pm, but are more flexible. Most retail outlets, with the exception of food shops and restaurants, are closed on Sundays. New Year’s Day: 1st January Serbian Christmas: 7th January Sretenje-National day: 15th February Republic of Serbia Day: 27th April Good Friday: 6th April Easter Monday: 9th April Labour Day: 1st & 2nd May Holidays based on lunar calendar have been estimated and are subject to change. SHOPS Food shops typically open at 6am and work until 9pm, both weekdays and Saturdays. Sundays they typically operate from 6am to 3pm. Many stores are open 24 hours a day. Markets are open every day from 6am to 5pm.
BELGRADE VISITORS CENTER
Tel: + 381 11 306-3000
www.greekemb.co.yu
Tel: + 381 11 3618-327
Belgrade Airport Tel: +381 11 2097 638 Makedonska 5 Tel: +381 11 3343-460 Central Railway Station Tel: +381 11 361-2732 Terazije square, Albanija Passage Tel: +381 11 2635-622
CHINA
HUNGARY
RUSSIA
Tel: + 381 11 2067-909
Tel: + 381 11 2440 472
Tel: + 381 11 361-1323
CROATIA
ITALY
SLOVAKIA
Tel: + 381 11 3610 535
Tel: + 381 11 3010 000
CYPRUS
Tel: + 381 11 3066 100 www.ambbelgrado.esteri.it
Tel: + 381 11 3672 909
ISRAEL
+ 381 11 3284 458
CZECH REPUBLIC
http://belgrade.mfa.gov.il
SWITZERLAND
Tel: + 381 11 3230 133
JAPAN
Tel: + 381 11 3065 820,
DENMARK
Tel: + 381 11 301-2800
SPAIN
Tel: + 381 11 3670 443
MACEDONIA
AUSTRIA
FINLAND
Tel: + 381 11 3284 924
www.spanija.org.yu Tel: + 381 11 3440 231
Tel: + 381 11 3031 956
EMBASIES AND CONSULATES
SLOVENIA
Tel: + 381 11 3065-400
NETHERLANDS
SWEDEN
BELGIUM
FRANCE
Tel: + 381 11 3230 018
Tel: + 381 11 2069 200 www.swedenabroad.se/belgrade
BELARUS
Tel: + 381 11 302-3500 www.france.org.yu
Tel: + 381 11 2023 900 www.nlembassy.org.yu NORWAY
TURKEY
Tel: + 381 11 3616 938
GERMANY
Tel: + 381 11 3332 433
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Tel: + 381 11 3064 300
Tel: + 381 11 3670 404 www.norveska.org.yu
Tel: + 381 11 329 1277
GREAT BRITAIN
POLAND
Tel: + 381 11 3978 987
Tel: + 381 11 2645-055 www.britishembassy.gov. uk/serbia
Tel: + 381 11 2065 301
USA
PORTUGAL
CANADA
GREECE
Tel: + 381 11 2662 895
www.canada.org.yu
Tel: + 381 11 3226 523
ROMANIA
Tel: + 381 11 3619 344 http://belgrade. usembassy.gov
BULGARIA
Tel: + 381 11 3613 980
50 Running Business in Belgrade / 2009
UKRAINE