Exploring the Charm of Sarajevo

Bosnian-Australian actor Reshad Strik has appeared in films and television shows globally, from Hollywood to Turkey, where he’s currently the host of a popular Turkish travel show. He is also the owner of Sarajevo’s hippest coffee shop, the Ministry of Ćejf.

How Would You Describe Sarajevo and Bosnia?

Bosnia has been dubbed ‘Switzerland with minarets.’ Much like a mini Istanbul, its capital, Sarajevo, is a fairy-tale city. Nestled in a valley with a river flowing through it, Sarajevo boasts a unique charm and unbelievable history.

Connection to Sarajevo

Having grown up in Australia, Reshad’s connection to Sarajevo runs deep, as his father hails from this enchanting city. Decorated with pictures of iconic places in Sarajevo, his home instilled a longing for this distant land. His first visit to Bosnia in 1998, shortly after the war, left an indelible mark on his heart, marking a magical experience he cherishes.

The Birth of Ministry of Ćejf

Traveling the world for work exposed Reshad to exceptional coffee. Observing that Bosnia ranks among the top ten coffee-drinking countries but offers some of the world’s cheapest coffee, he pondered, “Why isn’t anyone bringing better coffee to this country?” Consequently, he decided to open a specialty coffee café and roastery. Though he initially knew little about coffee, he diligently studied the craft of roasting and recognized that Bosnia deserves a vibrant coffee culture. Change is indeed on the horizon.

The Creative Scene in Bosnia

Bosnia is a hub of artistic talent, home to remarkable bands, artists, and a plethora of poets and writers. The country’s arts scene is thriving, showcasing the creativity bursting forth from its cultural roots.

A Day in Bosnia

If you find yourself with 24 hours in Bosnia, here’s a suggested itinerary:

• **Breakfast**: Start your day in Sarajevo’s Old Town with scrambled eggs and dry meat.
• **Lunch**: Enjoy classic Bosnian pies or burek.
• **Dinner**: For dinner, savor the national dish, cevapcici.

For nature enthusiasts, Bosnia offers incredible hiking trails. Additionally, the Hidalgo horse stables provide phenomenal views of the city and scenic horse trails. Don’t miss shopping at local craft stores such as Bazerdzan, which support local artisans and have fantastic gifts.

Explore the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of Sarajevo, making it an unmissable destination.