Journal #61 - Serbia
Zdravo (Здраво) from Serbia!
Our stay here has been work-filled. We spent large chunks of time planning the next several months of our travels. For that reason, we appreciated where we were all the more. Every day we could go out into the city and take long walks through the stone streets and appreciate the old beauty. The whole stay was a combination of hard work and peaceful play, and what better place to do that than Belgrade?
Part of the city sits higher in the landscape than the rest, so we found it pleasant to stroll along the city walls and overlook the tall glassy buildings. We enjoyed wandering through the ancient relics and seeing buildings or churches bathed in history.
The most significant building we visited would probably be the Temple of Saint Sava. Home to the patron saint of Serbia, the structure is impressive externally; however, it is inside where it truly shines. And I mean that literally. The tilework inside is predominantly colored gold, giving the whole chamber a distinct glow. Light is captured by the mosaic work and reflected back from the decadent chandeliers. Whether you are religious or not, this sight was a beautiful construction to visit.
Our walks were further charmed by the neighborhoods that embraced cafe culture with al fresco dining options lining the streets. We enjoyed sitting down for a sweet treat and getting to people-watch the day away.
It was not just the sweets but also the company that was pleasurable for us. We had the distinct opportunity to converse with the wait staff at one restaurant in particular who really treated us special. When we arrived inquiring about where to find a particular dish we needed for The List, they informed us it was not on their menu; however, they spoke with the chef and went out of the way to serve it, especially for us.
These restauranteurs were the same staff who, upon learning where we are from, excitedly told us about how they had the privilege of serving our nation's leadership during a state visit a few decades ago. We have met many pleasant servers and kind wait staff during our years on the road, but the proprietors of this particular restaurant stand out for making us feel most welcome. We will forever appreciate their kindness and how they shared their food and by extension their culture, with us so welcomely.
Unfortunately, we must leave eventually. So, our bags are packed and we are moving on to a nation that consumes over 30,000 tons of snails annually and is home to the world's largest art museum. Any guesses where we are off to next?
