Day 2: An Underwhelming Day

Weather Update: Partially Cloudy & Sunny, High: 13°C

Elevation Above Sea Level:: 652 Metres (2139 ft)

Morning Conversations and Travel Plans

After a restful night, I made my way to the hostel’s kitchen to finish up yesterday's blog. There, I met Veronica from Venezuela, a freelance professional, and Florent from France, both fellow travelers with their own adventures to share. One of the best aspects of travel is meeting people from different backgrounds, all with the same passion for exploration and new experiences.

Looking ahead, I have decided that three nights in Pristina might be enough, and I will likely move on to Skopje in North Macedonia sooner rather than later.

A City of Closed Doors

With a partial list of places to visit, I set off for a day of sightseeing. However, I quickly discovered that many sites were either closed or inaccessible. The churches and mosques, which are often open year-round, had their doors shut. One church near my hostel had even been closed indefinitely due to structural issues, its ceiling on the verge of collapse.

This left me at a crossroads—should I push myself to explore further, or allow myself some downtime? I chose the latter. Sightseeing is only one part of travel; taking moments for reflection and rest is just as important.

A Complex History and Lingering Resentment

Kosovo’s history is layered and complex. The scars of the 1999 war and the dissolution of Yugoslavia still linger in the region. The people here remain deeply affected by these events, and tensions with Serbia continue to shape daily life. I remember visiting this region in the early 1970s, when it was a different world—under Yugoslav rule, many locals say life was much better.

For those unfamiliar, the Yugoslav Wars (1991–2001) were a series of ethnic conflicts that ultimately led to the breakup of Yugoslavia into independent nations. The wars resulted in devastating loss of life, economic destruction, and lasting divisions. The memories of ethnic cleansing carried out by Bosnian Serbs still weigh heavily on the region, and resentment remains just below the surface.

Conversations with Locals

I had a conversation today with a local teacher who shared his struggles living in Kosovo. Despite being an educated professional, he earns just €720 a month. Housing is expensive, and many are looking for opportunities elsewhere. He, like others, has applied for citizenship in Norway, hoping for a better future.

Yet, as I walked through the city, I couldn’t help but notice the bustling restaurants and bars filled with people. There seems to be a disconnect—while some struggle, others appear to be thriving. It raises questions about income disparity and economic realities in Kosovo.

Reflections on the Day

Today was underwhelming, with little accomplished. Perhaps tomorrow will bring something new, but I have already decided—I will book my bus ticket to Skopje for Saturday.

Pristina, for me, is a city best suited for a short visit—an overnight stay, maybe two days at most. Unlike many other places I’ve explored, it hasn’t left me with a sense of excitement or discovery.

Tomorrow is a new day. Let’s see what it brings.

Andrew