06. - 09.09.2017 #Skopje

On the evening before our departure, Judith and I thought our journey was over and we could go to bed comfortably before starting early in the morning to Budapest airport. But: another bed bug, and this time not dead! This time the hostel showed itself to be much more competent and friendly: my clothes were washed for free. Unfortunately, they only had a 'emergency bed' which turned out to be a worn-out folding bed in a 9-bed dorm - and we had to share it. I don't think I need to write how tired we were in the morning :D

Farewell & Flight to Skopje

The Macedonian countryside is already impressive from the plane with its picturesque landscape. Around the city there are green hills and mountains and the sun is shining - it looks a bit like Greece.

In Macedonia you pay with Denar, the exchange rate is about 1:60, but I'm already used to the large bills from Hungary! So far it has been the cheapest country to travel to. For less than one euro you can get super delicious pastries... 

The journey from the airport to the hostel is already entertaining! The buses run very irregularly, so I share a taxi with a Hungarian. Soon a Cossack professor joins us. Both of them are very nice and the taxi driver gives us tips for our trip!

The hostel is great - especially for an incredible 8€ per night, and in my room I meet a guy from Mannheim! Feelings of home arise ;)

If you search for Skopje on the internet, it is compared to Disneyland or called the 'capital of kitsch' - and after my short stay I must say that both have their justification. 

As part of the 'Skopje 2014' project, numerous new buildings have been built in the Renaissance style since 2011. Most of them are hotels or museums, but there are also churches among them. In my opinion, the buildings do not compare to their French models, everything looks artificial and whole areas in the city are completely deserted. This is particularly sad because the 'Old Bazaar' is really picturesque and all Macedonians not only speak very good English but are also very friendly! I only stayed in Skopje for two nights because I wanted to visit the Matka Canyon near the city. The gorge is only 30 minutes away and upon arrival I immediately meet various Germans and an American tourist. Together we hike along the canyon and enjoy the view!