Experience in Niš, Serbia by Cedomir

Source

What is it like to live in Nis? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I have long been in various international organizations, like AIESEC, and so I was lucky to meet many wonderful people from all over the world. Each of them was so delighted by Niš and Serbs that some came more times after that, and some even today have their facebook name in Cyrillic.

Niš is a great city for entertainment, leisure and recreation, especially in summer. The people are warm, hospitable, and the vast majority speak English so you can easily find your way around.

Some interesting information:

• The city of Niš is one of the oldest cities in the Balkans. It is the second largest city in Serbia with more than 250. 000 inhabitants, and the centre of the Southeastern region of the country.
• Niš is notable as the birthplace of Constantine the Great, the first Christian Roman Emperor and the founder of Constantinopol (This year was the central celebration of 1700 years since the proclamation of the Edict of Milan and recognition of Christianity - it was epic! )
• Situated at the crossroads, the city of Niš connects the Balkans to Europe, and Europe to the Near East. That is why it has always been considered a gateway between The East and The West, hence the name Mediana.
• The climate of this area is moderate continental. The average temperature is 11. 2°C. July is the warmest month of the year, with the average of 21. 2°C. The coldest month is January with the average of 0. 2°C.
• Several famous cultural events have already become part of tradition of Niš: the Festival of Actors' Achievements, Nisville Jazz Festival, Choral Festival, the international festival of amateur choirs, as well as the Art Colony in Sićevo.

You can view this website if you decide to come:

VisitNis

What is the student lifestyle like in Nis?

There are a lot of foreign students because studies are much cheaper than in other countries, and the programs have a good quality.

Statistics show that the system of education is quite elaborate in our city. There are 14 000 students at the University of Niš composed of 13 faculties.

How much does it cost to live in Nis?

For foreigners prices are quite low. In order not to explain about it, check out this site:

Numbeo

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Nis? Is there any advice you can give?

Accommodation is not hard to find, there are plenty of hotels, hostels and apartments. On this website there is enough information for everyone:

VisitNis

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Dinning in an old Serbian tavern is an enjoyable experience.

First the environment is very positive. Many happy tipsy people are talking and laughing. Everyone who enters, even a foreigner, sense the charms of the Serbian culture and spirit.

Second, the food is excellent. It is well prepared, it tastes delicious, and there are many different kinds of food. In addition, the staff is very kind and therefore the food is even tastier.

The national dishes include "pljeskavica" (a ground beef patty), "ćevapi" (grilled minced meat), and "sarma". The national drink is the plum brandy "šljivovica".

Finally, the whole atmosphere is completed by excellent musicians who always try hard to entertain everyone. Furthermore, the music is relaxing and is suitable for a nice dinner with wine.

For these reasons, it is nice to go to an old Serbian tavern once in a while to enjoy the eating, drinking and nice surrounding with old Serbian music.

What places would you recommend visiting in Nis?

City of Niš has a lot to offer to tourists. The most important historical sites are:

• Mediana - Archaeological site, Roman imperial villa;
• Niš Fortress - Turkish fortress (built 1723);
• Skull Tower - A tower made out of Serb skulls decapitated by Turks in 19th Century;
• Bubanj - Monument to the fallen Yugoslav WWII fighters.

Check out this virtual presentation of Niš and you will realize that there are plenty of places to see, especially the natural environment that leaves you breathless:

Virtual Tour

Is the nightlife good in Nis? Where is good to go?

Niš is beautiful at night. There are lots of pretty girls (many say that the Serb women are one of the most beautiful women in the world) and boys (I think so :D), a lot of clubs and organized events. You have particular summer and winter clubs. Many are on open next to the river with a nice music and atmosphere. Everything is in the center of the town so you can choose the place and the music. The outdoor theater is also good to see.

What advice would you give future students headed to Nis?

Be sure to visit this interesting city in the summer and enjoy its charms!