The Balkans Real Food Adventure
9 Days | Experience the cuisine, culture and warm hospitality of the Balkans
NZD $3,402
Tour Description
Treat your palate to the culinary highlights of the Balkans on this nine-day foodie adventure. Dine on homemade meals and share stories with your hosts in North Macedonia, meet the makers behind famous Njegusi smoked hams in Montenegro and sample the charcuterie of Croatia. Take guided walks in Prizren and Skopje, exploring the cities where Balkan cuisine comes to life, and have ample free time to discover local markets and bazaars. With an expert local guide providing all the restaurant recommendations you could ask for, your Balkans adventure will not leave you hungry!
HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS
Skopje, North Macedonia: Begin your adventure in Skopje, the vibrant capital of North Macedonia. Discover the city’s eclectic mix of historical and modern influences as you explore local markets and enjoy a traditional Macedonian meal. Visit key landmarks such as the Stone Bridge and the Old Bazaar, and immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic food scene.
Bitola, North Macedonia: Travel to Bitola, known for its Ottoman architecture and charming atmosphere. Visit local markets to sample fresh produce and traditional Macedonian delicacies. Participate in a hands-on cooking class where you'll learn to prepare classic Macedonian dishes using local ingredients.
Ohrid, North Macedonia: Continue to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning lake and rich history. Explore the Old Town, visit the ancient Church of St. John at Kaneo, and savor local specialties like Ohrid trout and cheese. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Ohrid and discover the town’s culinary delights.
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Day 1: Dubrovnik
Day 2: Kotor
Day 3: Prizren
Day 4: Ohrid
Day 5: Ohrid
Day 6: Bitola
Day 7: Bitola
Day 8: Skopje
Day 9: Skopje
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Inclusions
Meals
4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 2 dinners
Transport
Private Vehicle
Accommodation
Hotel (8 nights)
Activities
Lustica - Olive oil farm visit
Njegusi - Smokehouse visit & tasting
Shkoder - Rozafa Fortress visit
Prizren - Leader-led city tour
Pristina - Serbian barbecue lunch
Pristina - Leader-led city tour
Pristina - Gracanica Monastery visit
Debar - St Jovan Bigorski Monastery visit
Kuratica - Home-cooked dinner
Ohrid - Green Market
Prespa - Agriturismo visit & tasting
Prespa - Home-cooking demonstration
Dihovo - Home-cooked lunch
Dihovo - Beekeeper farm visit
Tikves - Wine tasting
Stobi - Stobi archaeological site
Skopje - Leader-led walking tour with traditional sweets
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Booking and Payments
Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required to confirm your booking.
Final Payment: The balance must be paid in full 90 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking.
Cancellations and Refunds
Cancellation by Client:
More than 90 days before departure: Loss of deposit.
30-90 days before departure: 65% of the total tour cost.
Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost.
Cancellation by Company: We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a full refund will be provided.
Changes to Itinerary
Flexibility Required: Weather and road conditions may necessitate changes to the planned route and itinerary. Flexibility is essential.
Substitutions: We reserve the right to substitute accommodations and services of similar standard when necessary.
Travel Insurance
Mandatory: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all participants.
Proof Required: Proof of insurance must be provided before the tour begins.
Health and Safety
Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required for participation in the activities outlined in the tour itinerary.
Medical Conditions: Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.
Liability
Responsibility: The company will not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property that occurs during the tour.
Third-Party Services: The company is not responsible for the actions or omissions of third-party providers, such as airlines or accommodation services.
Visas and Documentation
Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date.
Visas: Obtaining necessary visas and travel documents is the responsibility of the participant.
Conduct
Respect for Culture: Participants are expected to respect local customs and cultures.
Behavior: Disruptive or harmful behavior may result in the participant being asked to leave the tour, with no refund provided.
Complaints
Immediate Reporting: Any complaints should be reported immediately to the tour leader to allow for a timely resolution.
Post-Tour Complaints: Complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour's conclusion.
By booking this tour, you agree to adhere to these terms and conditions.