An Update… At Long Last

It’s crazy to think that almost two months ago, I boarded a Sarajevo bound flight, leaving behind my family, friends and home to come live in a small country many can’t locate on a world map. However, it’s even crazier to think that it’s already been almost two months since I’ve arrived. As I sit here writing this much-delayed blog post, it’s almost impossible to articulate how my time in Bosnia has been so far. Each day has been a rewarding and transformative experience, and I am excited to see what the rest of the year will hold!

They say that pictures are worth a thousand words, and as I seem to have forgotten how to write eloquently these past few months, here are some photos of the highlights of my time here so far. I promise to post more substantial blog posts soon…

A view from above

Sarajevo is a city built from many cultures and divergent ways of life — from the Ottoman Empire to Austro-Hungarian rule to Yugoslavia, it’s safe to say that the city has had a diverse history. These different time periods each left a unique mark on Sarajevo, still visible to this day. Here we are exploring the old town, Baščaršija, which is primarily built in Ottoman style.

Exploring Ilidža, a suburb of Sarajevo

Last weekend, I volunteered in Sarajevo’s Race For The Cure with Samantha and Maeve, other YES Abroad students. It was a really interesting event, over 7000 people gathered to raise money for breast cancer research and to raise awareness about the disease. We met the US Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Maureen Cormack, at the race as well.

Sarajevo is about 80% Muslim, so during the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha, or Bajram, the city was alight with celebration. Traditionally, a sheep is sacrificed on this day and divided into 3 parts: 1/3 to keep, 1/3 to give to neighbors and family, and 1/3 to give to the poor. Here I am with my host brother distributing the kurban, or sacrifice, to our neighbors.

Looking out from my host family’s balcony

A famous “attraction” in Sarajevo’s old town

While this blog post does little justice to demonstrate my experience in Bosnia so far, it does give a small snapshot into my life. However, I look forward to writing more meaningful posts soon, so stay tuned. In the meantime, you can follow my Twitter @Ben Blum for more frequent updates.

Vidimo se, and thanks for reading.

-Ben