Hannah’s Bosnia – A Return to the Unexpected

Postcards from Bosnia is an audio journey into the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, seen through the eyes of an Englishman who has made this place his home.Paid members get access to everything I create, including exclusive podcasts, behind-the-scenes reflections, photo essays, and more that I only share with my inner circle ☕✨Thanks so much in advance.It’s a misty Sunday morning in the village, the firewood’s sorted for next winter, and the banana plant has, miraculously, survived.In this special episode, first aired back in March 2024, I sit down outdoors with Hannah Thomas, a young German-American nurse who’s just wrapped up her second visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina.Joined this time by her father, brother, boyfriend, and younger brother, Hannah reflects on what it’s like to travel somewhere that’s not “on the list.”We talk about ćevapi comparisons between Croatia and Bosnia (spoiler: Bosnia wins), what shocked her the first time she crossed the border, and how it feels to slow down, embrace ćejf, and soak in a country still unknown to many.This is the first time a guest has agreed to chat right here, and it’s raw, real, and refreshingly honest.We explore:The contrasts between German and Bosnian culture through the eyes of a traveler in her twentiesWhy slow travel in the Balkans might be the antidote to all-inclusive burnoutHow Bosnia’s charm sneaks up on you, through smoky cafés, fruit markets, and unexpected kindnessSo brew yourself something warm, find a quiet moment, and join us for a very human story about family, curiosity, and the power of returning.Have you ever visited a country that completely changed your perspective, where your expectations didn’t match the reality?If so, where was it… and would you go back?Let’s Stay ConnectedIf you enjoyed this little postcard from my Bosnian summer, I’d love to hear from you. You can drop me a message.Thank YouThank you for listening to these little slices of my life. If you’d like to get more stories, you can subscribe to my Substack, it’s free, and if you ever want to upgrade to paid but can’t afford it, just email me. I’ll sort it out, no questions asked.Here are 3 questions I have.* What would make you hit “play” on an audio post instead of just reading?* What makes a podcast episode feel personal or meaningful to you?* Would you like me to add audio versions of my blog posts so you can choose how to enjoy them?I’ll give a complimentary subscription to Coffee and Rakija for life for taking the time to answer.More From Me This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeandrakija.substack.com/subscribe