14 minute read
SERBIA
Bouncing back strong from COVID-19, Serbia is a cultural crossroads home to majestic natural scenery, historic landmarks and unique hospitality
Writer: Phoebe Harper | Project Manager: Deane Anderton
Sprawling across the central part of the Balkan Peninsula in south-eastern Europe, the landlocked nation of Serbia is a tourist’s delight. This vast, diverse country combines the metropolitan charm and energetic buzz of historic cities, such as Belgrade and Novi Sad, with the unspoilt natural wilderness and jaw-dropping landscapes to be found within its five national parks.
The cultural melting pot of the capital Belgrade is the country’s most visited spot, offering a famous nightlife scene and world-renowned gastronomy. In the south, the city of Nis is a haven for art, history and culture, where genuine southern hospitality awaits.
Whilst the spoils of Serbia’s cities are not to be missed, the country is rare in presenting an opportunity to truly wander off the beaten track. Further afield, explore medieval monasteries and unique natural landmarks such as the Danube River Gorge and the cliffs of Kazan. Adventure abounds with endless opportunities for hiking, biking, rafting and kayaking in the natural playground of the Great Outdoors. Afterwards, unwind in historic wine regions and soak in thermal spas that date back to Roman times.
This small corner of Europe boasts an endlessly enticing plethora of experiences, and is compact enough to enjoy an authentic and varied vacation over the course of a few days. Whether a culture vulture or an adventure-seeker, you can guarantee that Serbia has something for you.
Make the most of being away
Known for its unique combination of first-class service and a stylish ambience centred on modern sophistication, the Hyatt Regency Belgrade has been the preferred premium hotel of choice in Serbia’s capital for the past 32 years. Ideally located in the bustling heart of New Belgrade, the Hyatt Regency enjoys convenient proximity to the city’s main business, culture and entertainment district. A stone’s throw from Belgrade City Centre, and wellconnected with Belgrade Airport, the accommodation is perfectly suited for either business or leisure travellers – or those looking to combine the two.
UNIQUE AMENITIES
Nearby, take a long stroll along the scenic Danube River, enjoy the coffee shops in the main walking street of Knez Mihailova, or seek some retail therapy at Galerija – Serbia’s largest shopping centre just a couple of minutes’ drive away. For those seeking a truly relaxing stay, you can find all the amenities you might need within the confines of the hotel itself. On stepping through its doors, you are instantly immersed in elegance, with a grandiose lobby that has been transformed through the hotel’s recent reopening. The extensive facilities of the Hyatt Regency Belgrade boast 282 spacious rooms and suites, ten conference rooms, and the Club Olympus Spa and Fitness Centre. Elsewhere, you can also enjoy the gastronomical delights of the Metropolitan Grill Restaurant, take an afternoon treat at the Tea House, and unwind in the evening at The Bar. Inside, the exclusive Regency Club is designed to cater to those in search of the highest level of privacy.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY
The hotel prides itself on offering brilliant value for families. Indeed, the Hyatt Regency Belgrade provides a family hotel experience that is as fun as it is comfortable and affordable. With views of the city and park, the spacious 38 sq. m (409 sq. ft.) rooms offer well-appointed touches, including a king-size bed with a plush feather duvet, an ergonomically designed workspace and high-speed Internet access. Cribs are also on hand and available for those travelling with a baby. Each weekend, families can enjoy the hotel’s Sunday lunch, including an allyou-can-eat buffet, kids’ corner and special activities. Finally, as the cherry on top of the cake for a best-value stay, children under 12 stay for free and are entitled to a complimentary breakfast.
Milentija Popovića 5, 11070 Belgrade | +381 11 301 1234
www.hyattregencybelgrade.com
DESIGNED FOR CONNECTION
At the Hyatt Regency Belgrade, everything is under one roof. You’ll find a full range of services and amenities, including notable restaurants and bars; technology-enabled ways to collaborate; and space to work, engage or relax. This is a space designed around the power of connection as a location that invites meaningful interactions – whether between colleagues on a business trip, friends looking to socialise, or family and loved ones reconnecting on a special trip away. In terms of business travel, the hotel’s flexible, comfortable and well-equipped conference facilities, which can accommodate up to 1,000 people, make this a desired location for events. The Hyatt Regency Belgrade team are always on hand to oversee every single detail for those arranging all manner of events, from business meetings, to exhibitions, conferences, and private celebrations.
UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY SERVICE
As part of the Hyatt family, the hotel’s 300 plus employees are among its greatest assets, with over 20 members of staff having worked here since it first opened its doors over 32 years ago. Their commitment, energy, and passion in exceeding the expectations of every guest are a reflection of the Hytatt Regency Belgrade’s unparalleled commitment to quality service. With an esteemed reputation as a market leader, the hotel continually invests in ensuring that it can provide the latest offerings, responding to the challenges of its environment by observing the needs of its clients. As a reflection of this commitment, the Hyatt Regency Belgrade has recently undergone a series of reconstruction and remodernisation projects throughout the hotel. If you're looking for a premium hotel in Belgrade, be sure to book your stay here to experience an unforgettable taste of true Hyatt hospitality.
Tara mountain, Banjska stena viewpoint
Marija Labovic, CEO at the National Tourism Organisation of Serbia (NTOS), brings the latest news and developments on tourism in the region
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, could you briefly introduce us to NTOS – when were you founded and what is your vision and mission?
Marija Labovic, CEO (ML): NTOS was established in 1994 as the public body in charge of promoting Serbian tourism in domestic and foreign markets. Our activities are focused on positioning Serbia’s tourism products and exploring Serbia’s comparative advantages in terms of tourism, including its geostrategic position and its historical, cultural and natural identity.
Our vision is to achieve a recognisable image of Serbia as a tourist destination in domestic, regional and international markets, and to establish a marketing system that is harmonised at national, regional and local levels.
NTOS keeps abreast of modern trends in promotional activities and uses new communication and promotional tools, including e-marketing technology. In its future activities, NTOS will continue to strive to improve the promotional mix by implementing new communication and promotional tools used in online marketing, mobile applications, and content-sharing platforms.
OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Serbia in 2023?
ML: Serbia is in a specific surrounding of incredible natural beauty where the collision of East and West has left a unique mark on culture, history, the temperament of its people, gastronomy, music and architecture.
Serbia offers a unique and unrepeatable experience:
unexplored nature, a capital city that vibrates with a modern spirit, smaller towns hidden from the crowds full of charm and warmth from days gone by, and rural households where you can experience the full meaning of what it means to be someone’s guest. Elsewhere, the country is rich with museums, monasteries, churches and other cultural monuments. And for those looking to explore the Great Outdoors, Serbia offers adventures in the canyons, cycling on the plains, and countless hiking and mountain trails you’ll want to return to.
Serbia is already well-known for its gastronomy, and last year we received the international recognition of the gastronomic quality from the prestigious Michelin guide – 14 Belgrade restaurants were selected with Michelin labels, celebrating their rich and diverse eating experiences. We are looking forward to the next selection in December this year.
In 2022, Novi Sad, our second biggest city, was proclaimed the European Capital of Culture for 2022. This is the first time that a city outside of the European Union has been awarded this great honour. As a result, this year, Novi Sad hosted a great number of cultural events, from exhibitions to concerts, to attract even more tourists to this beautiful multicultural city.
We are also extremely proud that, for the last 10 years, both Serbia as a country and the city of Belgrade have been among the top MICE destinations on the prestigious International Congress and Convention Association list.
Despotovac, Manasija Monastery
OT: What kind of travellers does your region appeal to most?
ML: The majority of international tourists visiting Serbia are from other countries in the region and our traditional source markets such as Germany. We are also seeing an increase in numbers from other European countries.
The destinations in Serbia most visited by international tourists are our biggest cities, led by Belgrade with over 60 percent of all international overnights, followed by our mountain resorts and our spa and recreational centres.
Serbia is a safe destination for all travellers and Serbian hospitality is unique. The crossed paths of East and West lead tourists through cultural and historical sights, but also mixed gastronomic tastes, passing from one region or city to another. The moderately continental climate gives Serbia all four seasons, so during the winter many skiing fans are attracted to our mountains, while the summer brings numerous festivals and is ideal for enjoying lakes and walks in almost untouched nature. Spring and autumn are best for exploring the cities and getting to know the extraordinary nightlife. Aside from all this, Serbia is rich in healing waters and even kings used to come to our famous spas. For all those looking for new experiences, Serbia is the ideal place.
Gold Gondola in operation during a summer day at Zlatibor, Serbia
OT: What does Serbia have to offer in terms of sustainable or eco-friendly travel experiences?
ML: Serbia follows global trends in the development of tourism and the concept of eco-tourism is becoming more popular and important. It is recognised as the need for people to separate themselves, at least for a while, from everyday stress and to return to manual work and learning in a natural environment.
According to the research on the behaviour of domestic and foreign tourists conducted by the National Tourism Organisation of Serbia, 54 percent of domestic tourists cited nature as a motive for travelling in Serbia and eight percent cited outdoor activities. Meanwhile, 62 percent of our foreign guests listed cultural and historical heritage as a motive for visiting Serbia while nature accounted for 43 percent.
It is indisputable that Serbia has a preserved
Zlatibor, open air museum, Sirogojno Village
environment and that throughout the territory you can find amazing examples of traces that nature left for us to discover. One such example is Tara National Park, which constantly develops new products and tries to attract hikers, such as its latest programme centred on the photography and observation of wildlife, primarily the brown bear.
For years, the Zasavica nature reserve has been engaged in the improvement and development of its protected area through the breeding of old autochthonous breeds. Elsewhere, the Bačko Podunavlje Biosphere Reserve has been placed on the World List of Biosphere Reserves, where tourists can get to know the characteristics of this area by rowing a boat or observing and photographing wildlife. The Uvac nature reserve also has opportunities to observe griffon vultures and kayaking excursions along its meandering waterways. Here you can find rural households with accommodation facilities, which have excellent conditions for the development of eco-tourism.
OT: Are you optimistic about the recovery of tourism in Serbia, particularly with regards to the COVID-19 pandemic?
ML: Tourism, as one of the strongest global sectors has suffered the most due to the pandemic, and the situation in Serbia is no different. In 2019, Serbian tourism reached a historic record of almost two million international tourists with over four million overnights. These numbers of visitors and overnight stays were the result of the year-on-year double-digit growth that started back in 2013 and was influenced by significant tourism infrastructure development, the rise of the service quality, the diversification of tourism products and intensive promotional campaigns, accompanied by strong governmental support and the recognition of tourism as one of the key drivers of the economy.
We are very proud to confirm that tourism in Serbia witnessed a strong recovery this year and exceeded its record 2019 results! Comparing the latest available data, the total number of tourist overnights has increased by 19 percent over 2019, while the number of foreign tourist overnight stays is up an incredible 19 percent compared to the pre-pandemic period.
OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS
FOR A COMFORTABLE STAY IN NEW BELGRADE...
The Hyatt Regency Belgrade is the preferred upscale hotel for leisure and business travellers, conveniently located in the heart of the capital’s main business and entertainment district. Close to the city centre and well connected to Belgrade airport, enjoy long walks along the Sava River, have fun in the largest shopping mall in the city, or just relax at the hotel’s Club Olympus Fitness facilities. Boasting on-site amenities including the Metropolitan Grill, Tea House and the exclusive Regency Club, the Hyatt Regency is also the ideal option for a family-friendly stay.
IN FOCUS NOVI SAD
SERBIA’S SECOND BIGGEST
city, Novi Sad was proclaimed as the European Capital of Culture for 2022. Situated in Northern Serbia on the scenic banks of the river Danube, Novi Sad’s origins date back to 1694 when a colony was formed here by Serb merchants. The city is often referred to as ‘the Serbian Athens’ and ‘the Gibraltar of the Danube’.
The iconic symbol of Novi Sad is the formidable Petrovaradin fortress, which dates back to the Middle Ages and was used as part of the military frontier during the Ottoman Empire. A visit here offers unparalleled insight into the development of the city from the first half of the 18th century through to the mid-20th century. Every year, thousands descend on this spot for one of Europe’s biggest events – EXIT Festival, which gathers renowned musicians from around the globe.
It is often said that time passes more slowly in Novi Sad, thanks to the city’s famously laidback vibe. Awarded the title of ‘European Youth
Capital’ in 2019, its easy-going spirit and happening nightlife scene are a magnet for younger travellers.
Home to great music, food and a rich cultural diversity, many consider Novi Sad to be the gem in Serbia’s crown.
LANDMARK ATTRACTIONS
BELGRADE FORTRESS
Known in Serbian as Kalemegdan, this formidable citadel has been destroyed over 40 times throughout its rich history. The fortress as you see it today is the result of 18th century Austro-Hungarian and Turkish reconstructions. As the original landmark around which Belgrade developed, a visit here is highly recommended for any travellers interested in Serbia’s history.
STUDENICA MONASTERY
Dating back to the 12th century, Studenica is considered the mother of all Serbian Orthodox monasteries. Its grounds boast pristine marble churches, Byzantine frescoes, and are the final resting place of Stefan Nemanja, saint and founder of the Serbian empire. Nearby, visit the hermitage of St Sava where a complex of monks’ cells has been built into the cliffside.
KOPAONIK
As Serbia’s largest mountain massif, Kopaonik attracts just as many visitors in the winter months as it does in summer, whether for skiing or to enjoy a variety of hikes and mountain sports amidst awe-inspiring scenery. ‘Kop’ owes its nickname of the ‘sunshine mountain’ to the 200 days of sun that the national park typically enjoys every year.
Beautiful view of the historic centre of Belgrade on the banks of the Sava River, Serbia
GETTING THERE AND AROUND
INTERNATIONAL TOURISTS
WILL typically arrive in Serbia at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG), located 20 kilometres (km) outside of Belgrade. If visiting the southern regions, it is recommended to fly into Nis Constantine the Great Airport (INI), on the outskirts of Nis, or Morava airport in the city of Kraljevo.
To travel around the country, rental cars are the best option, especially if wanting to reach more remote destinations. Otherwise, Serbia is well-connected with a practical and accessible network of coach and bus services.
