Banja Luka In Your Pocket

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BANJALUKA May - September 2009

BANJALUKA Rafters‘ paradise!

inside front

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Contents

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E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S

Contents The Basics

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Public transport & Keeping in touch

Culture & Events

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Stay warm with some indoor activities

Where to stay

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A fine selection of places to spend the night

Dining & Nightlife

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From pork knuckle to tofu burgers Cafés Grab a book and watch the world go by

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Nightlife Party hard in the city that never sleeps

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Sightseeing What to see Check out the highlights

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Getting around

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Planes, trains & Automobiles

Shoping

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Directory

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Health & Lifestyle Travel agencies

Maps & Index Street register Public transport map City centre map City map Country map

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May - September 2009

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Foreword Europe In Your Pocket

Cover story This May, an event unlike any other and one of the most fascinating river sports one could imagine will be hosted on the wild banks of Banja Luka’s pristine white water rivers:  the World Rafting Championships 2009!  Thirty teams from all four corners of the globe will be racing across untamed white water sections and deep pool drops between two spectacular canyons for the grand title of ‘World Champion’.    

E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S

Banjaluka In Your Pocket Jovana Dučića 41 Bosnia and Herzegovina tel. + 387 65 161 650 [email protected] www.inyourpocket.com ISSN 1840-4235 © ESTV d.o.o. Printed by ATLANTIK BB Published 20.000 copies, 2 times per year

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

In Your Pocket continues to expand. This spring will see our biggest expansion drives ever, as In Your Pockets hit the streets of Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo and the Isle of Man. We will also this year bea launching no less than eight new guides in Germany, just in time for the 2006 World Cup, while next door in Poland at least two more cities will be covered by In Your Pocket city guides. If you would like to be a part of the Pocket Revolution, publishing your own guide, contact us at [email protected] for more details.

Editorial Editorial Alina Stylianou, Collin Graham Researcher Danijel Dakic Writers Alina Stylianou, Collin Graham Layout & Design Nemanja Siljegovic Photos Alina Stylianou, Nemanja Siljegovic Maps GEOCENTAR d.o.o. Consulting Craig Turp Cover photo GUIDELINE d.o.o. Sales & Circulation Directors Niko Slavnic M.sc, Igor Blaha dipl.ecc Tel.: + 387 65 161 650; +386 41 690 666 Sales & Circulation Manager Danijel Dakic Tel.: + 387 65 981 354

Copyright notice Text and photos copyright PIYP s.r.o. 2000-2009. Maps copyright cartographer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for the purpose of review, without written permission from the publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket (Vokieciu 10-15, Vilnius, Lithuania tel. (+370-5) 212 29 76).

Editor’s note The editorial content of In Your Pocket guides is independent from paid-for advertising. Sponsored listings are clearly marked as such. We welcome all readers‘ comments and suggestions. We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of going to press and assume no responsibility for changes and errors.

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INSIDE BACK COVER

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Basics Arriving in Banjaluka Banja Luka is Balkan central. It is well connected by a variety of airlines, international trains and buses not to mention a good network of main roads and motorways.

Arriving by air The Banja Luka International Airport, also know as Mahovljani Airport, after the village of the same name, is located 23km from the city of Banja Luka. The airport has flights connecting Banja Luka with Belgrade served by JAT Airlines, Sarajevo and Zurich served by B&H Airlines and Salzburg, Stuttgart and Tivat served by the cheap airline AustroJet. At the airport, a tourist information centre is available where you can pick up city maps, a currency exchange office and an ATM along with several shops to buy SIM cards. A taxi to Banja Luka will cost about 20KM, taking about 30 minutes, buses to town run frequently and take about 45 minutes. Purchase your ticket on the bus.

A word from our mayor Dear guests, dear friends, Welcome to Banja Luka, the city that will over the next few days be the host of the World Elite in Rafting – the sport which is making Banja Luka more recognizable. I trust that the organization of this largest sporting manifestation – after the Olympics in Bosnia and Herzegovina, enlist Banja Luka amongst the big sporting cities, presenting an exceptional affirmation of the city upon the river Vrbas, of Republika Srpska and of Bosnia and Herzegovina likewise! Dear friends, I truly hope that you will enjoy the beauty of the river Vrbas, that you will enjoy our nature, our traditional values, our history and culture! I hope that you will experience our traditional hospitality and that the 2009 World Rafting Championship in Banja Luka will be an unforgettable experience for you which I, the City Mayor Dragoljub Davidovic, truly wish!

Arriving by bus All national and international buses arrive at the central bus station, which lies directly in front of the main train station. Getting to town is the same as described by train.

Bus Station H-1, Prote N. Kostića bb. QOpen 00:00 24:00. OULGBKS

Arriving by car A motorway and several main roads connect Banja Luka to other towns and bordering countries. Currently, the new motorway that will connect Banja Luka with Zagreb is still being constructed and will open in the second half of 2009. The main roads, however, are fairly decent if you are coming from Croatia. The road less travelled towards Sarajevo, Serbia and the Croatian coast are narrow and winding, but you do pass a variety of beautiful landscapes and villages.

Get yourself to grips with all the neccessary details you should be aware of when coming to Banja Luka. A small phrasebook and word dictionary is included.

Arriving by train

Alcohol

Most national towns in Bosnia and Herzegovina are connected by train with Banja Luka along with a train service to Zagreb, Croatia and an overnight train runs to Belgrade (22.50KM, nine hours, 9:15pm). Unfortunately, an ATM cash machine does not seem to be in the vicinity so make sure you arrive prepared. There are regular bus services to and from the train station as well as a taxi rank. A Tourist Information Centre is available in the station as well as a service for left luggage.

Rakia or rakija is considered to be a national drink. Its alcohol content is normally 40%, but home-produced rakia can be a tongue burner, typically 50 to 60%! Frequently used as the common drink at all celebrations, birthdays, holy holidays, slava (Orthodx christian custom of honouring a certain saint) and even funerals. Common flavours are slivovitz, traditionally made from plums and lozova, which is made from grapes. But, you can also distill from pears, peaches, apricots, apples, figs and cherries. Plum and grape rakia are sometimes mixed with other ingredients, such as herbs, honey, sour cherries and walnuts after distillation.

Railway Station H-1, Prote N. Kostića 38, tel. 051 301 229. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. OAULGKS

Visas Many foreigners (especially those from the EU) simply need a passport or ID card to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina and can stay for a maximum of three months.

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

Basic Data Banja Luka Banja Luka or Banjaluka, in cyrillic letters spelt Бањалука, is the capital and the largest city in the Republika Srpska entity and the second largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina after Sarajevo.

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Basics Geography Banja Luka covers some 96.2 kilometres (37.1 miles) of land in northwestern Bosnia on the Vrbas River. Banja Luka‘s downtown is at 163 metres above sea level, surrounded by hills. The source of the Vrbas River is about 90 km (56 ml) to the south. The tributary rivers of Suturlija, Crkvena, and Vrbanja flow into the Vrbas at Banja Luka. Banja Luka also has a number of springs close by. The area immediately around Banja Luka is woodland, although there are mountains a little further from the city. The city itself is built in the Banja Luka valley, which is located at the transition between high and low mountain areas. The most notable of the mountains are Manjača (1214 meters), Čemernica (1,338 meters), and Tisovac. These are all part of the Dinaric Alps mountain range.

Climate Banja Luka has a continental climate, with harsh winters and warm summers. The warmest month of the year is July, with an average temperature of 21.3 °C (70 °F). The coldest month of the year is January, when temperatures average near freezing at 0.8 °C (33 °F). Annual precipitation for Banja Luka is about 988 mm. Banja Luka has an average of 143 rainy days a year. Due to the city‘s high latitude, it snows in Banja Luka almost every year as well. Strong winds come from the north and northeast.

terms of importance. For a while, it was the seat of the Bosnian pashaluk, and the lords of the region built a variety of impressive structures that would make up the core of the city‘s old town. In 1688 the city was set to the torch by an Austrian army. For all its good to the region however, Banja Luka as a city wasn‘t modernized until rule by Austria-Hungary in the late 19th century. Astro-Hungarian Rule Austrian occupation brought westernization to Banja Luka. Railroads, schools, factories, and infrastructure appeared and was developed. This led to a modern city of great importance, that after World War I became the center of the Vrbas province of the 1st Yugoslavia. During World War II, Banja Luka was liberated on April 22nd, 1945. Socialism & Yugoslavia Aside from a devastating earthquake in 1969, Banja Luka‘s time in Yugoslavia was extremely beneficial. The city became far more urbanized as its population grew five fold. In the final years of the socialist Yugoslavia, Banja Luka‘s population was 150,000. After the Tito era of 1948, Yugoslavs enjoyed many freedoms and were even allowed to travel out of the region and work in the West.

Disabled Travellers Banjaluka is becoming well adapted to the disabled. Only some hotels and restaurants have disabled friendly facilities so be sure to ask before you book anything.

Electricity Like most European cities, Banjaluka‘s voltage is 220 volts AC, 50Hz, and the country uses European two-pin plugs.

History

Language

Roman Times

The official language in BiH is referred to as ‘Bosnian‘ in the Muslim parts of the Federation, ‘Croatian‘ in Croatcontrolled parts and ‘Serbian‘ in the Republika Srpska. In short, notwithstanding different dialects it is one and the same language. A large number of locals (predominantly the younger generation) also speak English, German or Italian. Alphabet is based on the Latin alphabet and The Cyrillic alphabet.

Banja Luka‘s history dates back to ancient times. There is substantial evidence of a Roman presence in the region during the first few centuries AD, including an old fort in the center of the city. The area of Banja Luka was wholly in the Roman province of Illyricum, lying on important Roman roads between Dalmatia and Pannonia. Medival Times Slavs settled the area in the 7th century AD, although the exact nature of their migrations remains something of a mystery. What is known is that the first mention of the city dates to 1494, by Vladislav II. The origins of the name are debated to this day. Banja means „Bath“, perhaps a reference to the mineral springs in the region, and Luka means port which could be because of the city‘s location on the Vrbas river. Ottoman Empire

Special Pronunciations c - as the ‘ts‘ in ‘cats‘ ć - as the ‘tch‘ in ‘future‘ č - as the ‘ch‘ in ‘chop‘ đ - as the ‘dy‘ in ‘verdure‘ dž - as the ‘j‘ in ‘just‘ j - as the ‘y‘ in ‘young‘ lj - as the ‘lli‘ in ‘million‘ nj - as the ‘ny‘ in ‘canyon‘ š - as the ‘sh‘ in ‘hush‘ ž - as the ‘s‘ in ‘pleasure‘

During Ottoman rule, Banja Luka grew significantly in

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Basics Basics Do you speak English? - Govorite li engleski (Goh-voh-REEtay En-GLES-ki)? My name is… - Zovem se… (Zoh-vem say) Yes - Da (Dah) No - Ne (Nay) Hello - Zdravo (Z-drah-voh) Good Morning - Dobro Jutro (Doh-broh Yoo-troh) Good Day - Dobar Dan (DOH-bar Dahn) Good Night - Laku Noć (La-Koh Noch) Excuse me/Sorry - Oprostite (Oh-PROS-tee-tay) I don‘t understand - Ja ne razumijem (Yah Neh ra-ZOOmehm) I am from… - Ja sam iz…(Yah sam eez) Days Monday - Ponedeljak (POH-neh-dehl-yak) Tuesday - Utorak (Oo-tor-ak) Wednesday - Srijeda (Sry-dah) Thursday - četvrtak (chuh-tveh-tuck) Friday - Petak (peh-tuck) Saturday - Subota (su-BOH-tah) Sunday - Nedelja (neh-DEHL-yah) Questions Who? - Ko? (Koh) What? - šta? (Sh-tah) Where? - Gdje? (G-che) When? - Kad? (Kah-d) How much is it…? - Koliko košta (KOH-LEE-KOH KOSHTAH)? Places Croatia - Hrvatska England - Engleska Germany - Njemačka Hungary - Mađarska Ireland - Irska Netherlands - Nizozemska Scotland - škotska Slovenia - Slovenija Post One stamp, please - Jednu markicu, molim vas (Yeh-dnoo mark-ee-tsoo, moh-leem-vas) For postcard - za razglednicu (Zah raz-GLEHD-neet-tsoo) For letter - Za pismo (Zah pees-moh) Signs Open - Otvoren (Oht-for-en) Closed - Zatvoren (Zat-for-en) Entrance - Ulaz (Oo-laz) Exit - Izlaz (Eez-laz) Push - Guraj (Goo-ry) Pull - Vući (Voo-chi) Travelling Bus - Autobus (AW-toh-booz) Train - Voz (Voh-z) I am looking for… - Ja tražim (Yah trah-zeem) One ticket, please - Jednu kartu, molim vas (Yeh-dnoo car-too, moh-leem-vas) Times Now - Sad (Sah-d) Later - Kasnije (Kah-snee-yeh) Today - Danas (Dahn-as) Tomorrow - Sutra (SOO-tra) Yesterday - Juče (Yoo-treh) In the morning - U jutro (Oo YOO-troh)

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

In the afternoon - Popodne (Poh-POD-neh) In the eveing - Naveče (Nah-veh-cheh) At night - Po noći (Poh Noh-chee) Restaurant Talk Menu, please - Meni, molim vas (Meh-nee moh-leem-vas) Bill, please - Račun, molim vas (Rah-CHOON moh-leemvas) Do you have vegetarian food? - Da li imate vegeterijansku hranu (Dah lee ee-may-tay veh-geh-tey-ree-ahn-skoo h-rah-noo)? Bar Talk One coffee, please - Jednu kafu, molim vas (Yeh-dnoo kahfoo, moh-leem-vas) One beer, please - Jedno pivo, molim vas (Yeh-dnoh peevoh, moh-leem-vas) Cheers! - Živjeli (Zeev-yeh-lee)! You have beautiful eyes - Imate ljepe oči (EE-mah-tay lyehpeh oh-chee) Can I have your number? Mogu li dobiti tvoj broj telefona (Moh-goo lee doh-bee-tee t-voy b-roy teh-leh-FOHN-ah)?

Money The local currency is the convertible Mark (KM), which is tied to the euro at a rate of 1KM to €0.51129 (at the time of press). Convertible Mark coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 pfenings and 1, 2, 5 marks while banknotes come in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 marks. Many establishments (especially hotels) accept euros (notes only). ATMs are all over the place with MasterCard, Visa and their offshoots being accepted. Credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and Diners Club are readily accepted by larger establishments all over the country. When changing money, it is best to ask for small bills as shops often are hard-pressed for change. Traveller cheques can be readily changed at Raiffeisen and Zagrebacka Banks.

Politics Politics of Bosnia and Herzegovina takes place in a framework of a parliamentary representative democratic republic. Bosnia and Herzegovina is divided into two Entities - the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska, as well as the district of Brcko, whereby each has its own constitution.

Religion Unfortunately there has been no census since the end of the war, so there is no official data. The estimate ethnic composition in Republika Srpska in 2006 was Serb Orthodox 88%, Bosniaks constitute 8% of the population and Roman Catholics 4%. Bosniaks are associated with Islam, Bosnian Croats with the Roman Catholic Church, and Bosnian Serbs with the Serb Orthodox Church.

Smoking Cigarettes can‘t be sold to people under the age of 18. Smoking remains a popular cultural habit in most public indoor spaces.

Tipping It is not compulsory to tip in Banjaluka, through a reward of about 10% for good service in a restaurant or bar is always appreciated.

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Basics Toilets Public toilets are indeed scarce in Banjaluka, but you can find them in bus/train stations. In some bars and cafes, toilets are of the Turkish variety, to put it bluntly, a hole in the floor. My advice is also to carry around some tissues with you, as there may not be any toliet paper in some establishments.

Traditional Food If you like meat, you‘ll love Banjaluka. Meat is a standard for any meal. However, there is still lots of interesting meals you can make do if you are a vegetarian. A typical breakfast is very different from a traditional English, American or Australian breakfast, but they can be found in the occasional restaurant. Omlettes, hams, eggs and cheeses are very popular and can be found even in most places. For budget travelers the large supermarkets carry fruit yogurt, muesli, and juices and the open markets are always filled with fresh fruit. Bakeries open early and sell hot rolls, croissants, brown bread, apple and cherry strudles which you can take to a cafe and enjoy with a morning cappucino. All travellers should at some point enter a buregdzenica and try the famous traditional pita dishes of burek, zeljanica, sirnica, and krompirusa. They are all made from scratch and have been a traditional meal since Ottoman times. Burek is a meat pie wrapped in filo-dough. The zeljanica is made from spinach and cheese. Sirnica is made from a fresh, homemade cheese and krompirusa is diced potatoes with spices. Usually one portion (porcija) is enough to stuff you. A porcija costs between 2-3KM. They may ask if you like pavlaka spread on top. Pavlaka is a fresh cream that tastes wonderful with the pita. Thin yogurt is also a popular drink alongside your pita. Meat eating travellers should try out the wide range of available meats and should not miss the typical rostiljnica that serves up a range of grilled meats specialities. Whether chicken, beef, lamb, or pork, they come fresh from the mountainside. It is common practice here to raise all animals free range, and with no hormones or chemicals. Most people say they can taste the difference.

Suho Meso dried meat, either beef or pork. Sarme meat and rice rolled in cabbage or grape leaves. ‚Ispod Saca‘ similar to a dutch oven. A metal dish is placed on hot coals, the food is placed in the dish and covered by a lid which is then completely covered in hot coals and left to bake. Vlašicki similar to travnicki cheese. It is a highland cheese from the mountain villages on Vlašic Mountain in central Bosnia. Mladi Sir literally means young cheese. There isn‘t an equivalent to it in English. It has a soft texture and is unsalted. Often times it is served with a cream sauce on top. It is very healthy. Kajmak is the most difficult of all cheeses to translate. It is the top layer skimmed from milk, it is creamy and extremely tasty. Kajmak and ustipak (doughnut type roll) is a wonderful appetizer. Iz mjeha sheep milk poured into a specially sewn sheep skin ‚bag.‘ After a time the dry cheese is taken out of the skin container and the result is a strong, dry cheese that resembles real parmesan.

Here is a list of the most popular traditional dishes: Cevapi small meat sausages of lamb and beef mix. They are usually served with fresh onions and pita bread on the side. Cevapi usually come in pointer finger size sausages and are offered by five or ten pieces. Teletina is veal, usually served in cutlets. Veal in BiH is not produced by locking calves in a cage to ensure softer meat. Jagnjetina lamb grilled over an open fire. Musaka a meat pie made of minced beef, very similar to shepherds pie. Filovane paprike fried peppers stuffed with minced meat and spices. Pršut air dried ham, similar to italian proscuitto.

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Culture & Events Banja Luka is home to a variety of talented artists, musicians, theatre groups and more besides. You will probably stumble across a festival or two during your stay; as one event ends usually another follows. Sporting activities thrive all year around, but Banja Luka‘s finest is enjoyed in the very nature of its beautiful surroundings: don‘t miss out on rafting, hiking and biking.

Cinemas Mulitplex Palas Cinemas D-1, Gradski Trg, tel. 051 305 595/051 217 409, [email protected], www.bl-bioskop.ba. The only cinema in Banja Luka offers a reasonable choice of Hollywood and local films. All international films are in their original language and subtitled in the local language except those that are aimed for children in which case they are dubbed in the local language.

Exhibitions International Annual Exhibition of Contemporary Art D-1, Centar za vizuelne komunikacije Protok,

Veselina Masleše 1/11, tel./fax 051 212 059, www. spaport.org. The First International Annual Contemporary Art Exhibition SPAPORT in Banja Luka has been established from the initiative of Protok Collective with the support of many institutions, colleagues and friends from the region. SPAPORT is event that presents and promotes contemporary visual art on regional and international level by presenting works of forty artists. Many of the exhibited works have been inspired by Banjal Luka, they speak about the city and they have been produced for the exhibition. One of SPAPORT‘s strategic goals is representative annual regional exhibition as unique place for the region‘s exchange of information and ideas. www.protok.org Q 20 September - 20 October TJ

The Banja Luka Fair (Banjalucki Velesajam) H-2,

Pilanska bb, tel. 051 333 200/051 333 201, fax 051 333 223, [email protected], www.banjalukafair. com. Banja Luka fair is the biggest fair in the entire Republic of Srpska. Seven specialized international fair events are organized during the year ranging from fashion, tourism, cars, agriculture, engineering, furniture and much more. The display area is well equipped and includes a restaurant, press center, presentation and promotional halls. Q HUFLGX

Festivals Banja Luka International Film Festival D-2, Jevre-

jska 73, tel. 051 213 241, fax 051 213 178, info@ bliff.net, www.bliff.net. The Banja Luka International Film Festival is the first of its kind in Republica Srpska (Sarajevo International Film Festival being the number one in Bosnia and Herzegovina). A big event for one week in April, BLIFF brings international and domestic films and documentaries for the citizens of Banja Luka to watch the best in avant-garde and underground cinema from around the world. There is also a special student section, where local film students from the Academy of Arts in Banja Luka and students from film schools from around the world are invited to present their skills in filmmaking. If thats not enough, the film festival also organises a jampacked eductional programme about bits and bobs of the film industry and a evening programme of concerts, live music and entertainment.

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

Through the promotion of knowledge, understanding, respect and accessibility of film and film culture and through the opening of cinematographical horizons beyond and above the main commercial streams, BLIFF is much more than just a mere film watching event. BLIFF is about communication between the audience and films and their authors, and communication between film professionals. At the heart of BLIFF is the exchange of ideas. Q 23-29 April 2009

Demo Fest Skendera Kulenovića 91, tel. 065 176 576, www.demofest.org. A music festival dedicated to unsigned and ‚garage bands‘ of todays Ex-Jugoslavia.  The festival takes place on the grounds of the Kastel Fortress during the warm summer nights when thirty or so talented, loud and ass-kicking bands get their opportunity to find their moment of fame on the big scene. Come on and let‘s rock a culture revolution together! Q 19 - 26 July JLEB Ex-Yu Rocks Festival , www.exyurocks.info. This is

the WoodStock of Banja Luka taking place on the banks of the beautiful Vrbas river at ‚Krupa Na Vrbasu‘, about 4 kilometres out of town. Stictly punk, rock and heavy metal bands, one can enjoy a possibly painful head-banging experience or just chill out at the festival‘s camp-site with a beer and a bombfire. Q 25 - 26 JulyEB

International Animation Film Festival , tel. 065497238/065531343, [email protected], www.banjalukanima.org. The only animated film festival in Banja Luka showcases the best in animated filmmaking from around the globe, both feature and short films. The festival also organises workshops on animated film, exhibitions from the animator‘s works and entertainment after hours. Q May

International Classical Guitar Festival F-3, Dragomira D. Malića 13, tel. 065 830 289/065 807 064, fax 051 435 531, [email protected], www.gitarfest.com. Every year the International Classical Guitar Festival hosts sixbanjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Culture & Events

stringed masters of flamenco, balkan and classical genres. The few days are ablaze with colourful concerts, guitar competitions, exhibitions and workshops by the most eminent perrformers and lectures of the classical guitar world. Q 12 - 16 November

JazzLook Festival , www.myspace.com/jazzlook. Enjoy the fun with local and international jazz artists during the last week in October. The main concerts are held on the grounds of the Children‘s Theatre, following an after-party of intense, fast-paced jam sessions at ‚Delta‘ pub every evening until the early hours. Q 26 Oct - 01 Nov KRATKOFIL International Short Film Festival , tel.

065 730 307/065 587 476, [email protected], www. kratkofil.org. „Short on Size, Long on Style“ is the motto of the festival‘s celebration of Bosnian, regional and international shorts represented through fiction, documentary, animation and experimental films. The purpose of the festival is to promote non mainstream films and to popularise short films within the region. Be aware, unfortunatly not all films are subtitled in English (nor in Bosnian!) Q 16 - 20th June TJNX

Tamburica Orchestra C-4, C-5, Mise Stupara 24, tel.

065 526 569, fax 051 305 427, tamburicia@musician. org, www.tamburicia.org. Performances of the Tumburica Orchestra are usually performed at the Cultural Centre Banski Dvor. Listen to the traditional folk music of the Balkans, a complete orchestra playing with ‚tamburas‘ or stringed instruments.

Veselin Maslesa Folklore C-2, Bana Milosavljevica 16, tel./fax 051 303 307, [email protected], www. maslesa-folklor.org. This folklore ensemble mixes folklore, dance and singing and is one of the leading performace groups in Republika Srpska. Check their website (in english) for any performances coming up in Banja Luka.

NEOFEST International Summer Peace Festival

, [email protected], www.myspace.com/neofest. Three stages of fusion, reggae, funk, hip hop and electronica on two consecutive nights on Kastel Fortress during Banja Luka‘s warm summer nights. There is no place better than to hang out and enjoy post-modern music amongst the old ragged rocks of the Castle.Q 20KM (entrance 2 nights) .TJ6UENBX

Performances Cajavec Folklore C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića

103, tel./fax 051 218 057, [email protected], www. folklor-cajavec.com. This ensemble has received a number of prizes and performed in cultural festivals around Bosnia and Herzegovina and abroad. The performance of this incredibly choreographed dance is executed in traditional costumes and instruments.

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Culture & Events

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

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Culture & Events

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SPORTS Sport Activities Codex Bikes C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, Aleja Svetog Save 59, tel. 051 216 200/065 290 877, [email protected]. Sales, repairs and dealers. Free Climbing Club Extreme F-3, Marije Bursac 18,

tel. 065 016 923/065 779 027, [email protected], www.extremebl.com. This is the school of climbing and high altitude work. If you like the adrenaline buzz, you will enjoy participating in the club‘s activities, camps and field trips in the best climbing sports in B&H. QOpen 21:30, Sun 21:00. Closed Fri, Sat.

Hiking and Biking . Banja Luka with its flat configurations gives visitors the possibility to explore the city by foot or by bike from one side of the city to another without that much effort. The wide alleys and paths next to the Vrbas River offer the possibility to feel the city‘s size and see some of the historical monuments. But for those who have a more active spirit and want to discover the surroundings of Banja Luka and to see the city from other perspectives; numerous hiking and mountain biking trails are waiting for them in gorgeous nature. For more information about biking and hiking itineraries, as well as tourist guides and where to rent your own bike contact the Tourist Office of Banja Luka. Paragliding Club C-1, Jovana Dučića 100, tel. 065 981 146, [email protected], www.padobranci.net. For the ultimate experience in Banja Luka, try paragliding straight above the city (I would recommend with an instructor!) Rafting Club Kanjon Karanovac bb, tel. 065 882 087,

[email protected], www.kanjonraft.com. If you happen to be in Banja Luka during the spring or summer and adventure is something that makes you excited - rafting is for you! You can choose from one of the short or long rides, depending on your rafting experience and witness the scenery and nature of the magnificent Vrbas River and its wild and wet currents. It‘s a thrill of a lifetime and you‘ll be coming back for more!

Scuba Diving Club Jesenjinova 1, tel. 051 215 663,

[email protected], www.bukbl.org. Another club dedicted to water activities on the Vrbas River. Get experience and a licence for scuba diving here.

Shimano Bike Shop F-4, Vojvode Momčila 4, tel./fax 051 217 677, tel. 065 523 754.

Speleology Association Ponir F-3, Sime Matavulja

bb (atomsko skolnište), tel. 065 572 180, info@ponir. org, www.ponir.org. Speleology is the study of caves and other rock formations, their make up, structure, physical properties, history, life forms and the processes by which they were formed. This Association meets every Thursdays for study and field trips into the unknown deepest and darkest caves of the B&H. QOpen , Thu 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun.

Wolfbikes Veljka Mlađenovića bb, tel. 051 456 030, fax 051 456 031, [email protected], www.wolfbikesco. com. World Rafting Championships 2009 Rafting Centre Karanovac, [email protected], www.2009wrc.com. On the wild waters of the Vrbas and Tara Rivers, more than 20 whitewater rafting teams from Brazil, Japan, Czech Republic, and more will compete for the title of World Rafting Champions in June 2009. The Vrbas River has a proud history of sporting activities and was also home to the 2005 European Whitewater Rafting Championships. The Vrbas Canyon watercourse has a total length of 235 kilometres in which its fast waters are the ideal place for all major sporting eventseven for kayaking and canoeing. The Vrbas River is one of the major rivers in western Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is a right tributary of the river Sava. The river first appears at the southern slope of the Vranica Mountain, 1530 meters above the sea level and it drains rapidly down the slopes of the Dinaric Mountain massif. It empties into the Sava River at 90 metres above sea level. Banja Luka sits happily by the river‘s banks. Q 11 - 15 June Free Entrance. TLEBKX

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

SPORTS Sport Centres Aquana Sport Centre and Swimming Pools C-4,

Aleja Svetog Save 80, tel. 051 231 417/065 833 695, fax 051 228 401, [email protected], www. aquana.rs.ba. A large sport centre equipped with outdoor swimming pools and children‘s slide, gym, shop, cafe and restaurant. Q PTJABKCW

Fitness Club Energy G-4, Cara Lazara 19, tel. 065

201 065/065 519 643, www.energybl.com. „Energy“ combines a sports centre, dance school, karate club and a models agency. The gym is especially crowded with men flexing their muscles recurrently in front of the mirrors and gasping at every female creature who dares to pass through the man-fested herd. You won‘t get much training done in this centre. Q PJFG

Fitness Factory Kojica put 4 Lazarevo, tel. 051 371

897, www.fitnessf.net. A large fitness centre providing any guest with the essential ingredients to sty fit and healthy. One of the best equipped sport centre in town. Q PTUFLGD

Fitness Studio Body Fit F-4, Simeuna Đaka 20, tel. 065 644 174.

Fitnes studio „TEFA FIT“ Vozdovacka 18, tel. 065 582 355. This sports centre is dedicated to body building and nutrition and is located within the premises of the Banja Luka Fair. Q PFLG Fit Shop - Universal Nutrition G-2, Jaroslava Plecitija

17, tel. 051 311 722. Pick up any nutrition tablets you need as part of your fitness regime at this fitness shop.

Fortuna Sport Centre G-1, Tromeđa br. 4, tel. 051 358

000/051 358 006, fax 051 358 004, fortuna1@teol. net, www.zutezgrade.com. On the outskirts of town, this sport centre offers the following facilities: 3 outdoor swimming pools, an indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, an icering, football and tennis area, a shop selling sport medicine and vitamins, two restaurant, a night bar and parking for 600 spaces. Q PTHUFLGBKDC

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Culture & Events

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Culture & Events

„AQUANA“ d.o.o. Banja Luka Aleja Svetog Save 78 000 Banja Luka banjaluka.inyourpocket.com telefon: +387 51 228400

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Where to stay Gearing up for its tourist industry, Banja Luka provides a good enough range to suit all tastes and budgets. Prices are relatively low, even in the summer season compared to western Europe standards. Banja Luka is still lacking a youth hostel for the odd backpacker. However, if you’re travelling by campervan and tents, camping sites are situated along the roads by the river leading out of the city.

Cream of the Crop KALDERA Boutique Hotel, Wellness & Spa Alek-

sandrovac bb - Laktasi, tel. 051 582 300/065 973 335, fax 051 582 282, [email protected], www. hotelkaldera.com. Experience a refreshing and revitalising stay at one of the most renowned hotels in Republika Srpska. This supreme hotel offers a complete Wellness Oasis, in which you can choose a range of massages and beauty treatments for each individual’s needs. One can relax by the swimming pool and Jacuzzi or get a sun-kissed tan in their professional solarium. This hotel world of health and leisure is about 20 kilometres from Banja Luka. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. 11 rooms (singles € 92, doubles € 136, suites € 408). PYHAR� UILEGBKDXCSW

Bed & Breakfast Hotel Damjan E-2, Vase Pelagića 25, tel. 051 213 860/051 213 900, fax 051 213 880, info@damjanhotel. com, www.damjanhotel.com. The location is perfect for those who enjoy being in a peaceful and quiet part but still remain in the heart of town. The rooms on offer are relatively cheap and spacious equipped with all necessary mods and cons. Fast Internet connection and room service is available 24 hours a day. If you are coming with children and need a helping hand a professional childcare service is available upon request. A restaurant and café are in the hotels vicinity.Q 13 rooms ( singles €33, doubles € 45, suites € 45-60). PTHA6LGKXSW

Budget Ćetojević G-1, Ivana Gorana Kovačića bb, tel. 051 345 700/051 345 710, fax 051 345 702, [email protected], www.hotel-cetojevic.com. On the outskirts of Banja Luka, the hotel Cetojevic is of a high standard in which the recently deceased fashion designer Sheikh-Amer Hassan was a proud and satisfied guest.The apartments and rooms are luxurious fitted amongst all typical mods and cons, with a kitchen, jacuzzi, sauna and balconies with beautiful views of the Banja Luka landscape.The lobby is both an aperitif bar and restaurant with a variety of drinks and cuisine on offer. Laundry services and a conference room are at disposal.Q 25 rooms ( singles €30, doubles € 45,triples €60, suites €75-100). PHALEBKDXSW Hotel Čubić Glamočani bb, tel./fax 051 331 000, [email protected], www.hotelcubic.com. Although, the hotel Cubic offers pleasant, tastfully furnished rooms of a high standard, it is completely out of town and in front of a busy main road, not to mention the hotel happens to be situated in a somewhat industrial zone. If you happen to be just passing by, either as a congress or transit tourist, then this is a good place to rest your head as the rates appear quite cheap. Best to invistigate within the four walls of the hotel; have a coffee at the cafe bar, dine at the restaurant, you can even visit the hairdressers or pick up some basics at the mini-market. All rooms are well equipped with air conditioning, a mini bar, TV, telephone, and wireless internet connection Q 49 rooms ( singles € 33-39, doubles €5152, suites €70-71). PTHAULGKXSWElite Banjaluka In Your Pocket

Motel Dragana Uroša Drenovića 129, tel./fax 051

413 050, [email protected], www.moteldragana. com. A luxury motel amongst the weeping willows and the beautiful green Vrbas River. Just a few kilometres out of the centre of town, this is relatively a place for recreation and nature lovers. The motel gardens include a playground for children, mini golf and an enchanting terrace overlooking the riverbank. The restaurant offers local and international specialities - try the local Bosnian cheeses, the ‘Neguski’ smoked ham and quality wines from the region. All rooms are en suite, equipped with cable television, a mini bar, telephone and a PC with Internet access. Laundry and ironing services are available upon request. You can head off exploring on one of the walking trails that lead to and from the motel.Q 12 rooms (singles €30-35, doubles €45, triples €60, suites €72). PTHA6LEGBKXSW

Ideja F-4, Mese Selimovića 6, tel. 051 217 444, fax 051

413 050, [email protected], www.hotelideja.com. Attached to its sibling sister Elite Motel Dragana and sharing some but not all of the same facilities on offer, the Hotel Ideja is situated just outside the center of town. The bland entrance doesn’t do justice for its snug and cosy interior. The staff are especially welcoming and English speaking. The spacious, en suite rooms are equipped with cable television and breakfast is included as part of your stay. The lobby offers a cocktail bar, and a café. Q 12 rooms (single €36, doubles €47, triples €63, suites €80). PJHA6LGKXS

Motel Đukić A-1, Krajiških brigada 2, tel. 051 219 992, fax 051 219 993, [email protected], www. motel-djukic.com. Although this motel is opposite the main road and next to a petrol station of the same name, it offers cheap, comfortable and modern en suite rooms equipped with all mods and cons that include breakfast. The friendly, English speaking staff at reception are available 24 hours a day. A small gift shop has a selection of souvenirs of Banja Luka and local wines. A coffee bar and restaurant are available in its locality and an outside terrace, which unfortunately faces the noisy traffic. The center of town is 10 minutes away by foot.Q 11 rooms ( singles €25 per person, doubles €50, triples €75). PALGBKXSW Prenoćište Alas F-3, Braće Mažar i majke Marije 48, tel. 051 212 622, fax 051 211 678, www.alasbl.com. Within the domains of a century old building, lies an exquisite fish restaurant which is an unavoidable spot for all seafood lovers and six spacious and modern, equipped rooms with all mods and cons. The interior of the restaurant is adorned with a selection of antique clocks, cabinets, gadgets and gizmos. If something catches your eye, you can ask the owner if he would be willing to sell it to you for a good price. This is a domestic and delightful environment, close to the city centre and ideal for any traveller. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. 6 rooms ( Singles €32, doubles € 50, triples € 60). PT� JALBKXSW

Symbol key P Air conditioning

A Credit cards accepted

O Casino

H Conference facilities

T Child friendly

U Facilities for the disabled

R Internet

L Guarded parking

F Fitness centre

G Non-smoking rooms

K Restaurant

J Old Town location

D Sauna

C Swimming pool

6 Animal friendly

W Wi-Fi

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www.hotelkaldera.com

tel: +38751 582 300

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Where to stay Apartment/Studios Business Apartments Olympus D-2, Ivana Franje

Jukića 7, tel. 051 212 225, fax 051 211 230, oplimpus@ oplimpus-apartmani.com, www.olimpus-apartmani. com. Bang in the middle of the business district, this is a delightful, friendly place ideal for business stays as well as the independent traveller. If you’re feeling fit, the apartments are located on the fourth floor of the building in which there is no sign of a lift. The six apartments and two single rooms are all exceptionally furnished and equipped with telephone lines, cable television and a PC with high speed internet. All guest are welcomed with no extra charges to all sorts of non-alcoholic beverages, dinner and breakfast. The largest apartment has a shower integrated with a massage system and internal radio for you to unwind and relax after a busy day in the city. Q PJALGBKXSW

Cheap Bomi Prijedorska bb, Trn, tel. 051 585 336, fax 051 585 225, www.sinecoop.com. Although, Motel Bomi is located near two gas stations Trn1 and Trn2, and along the Banjaluka Laktasi highway, it is also within walking distance to a beautiful lake in which you can walk around its circumference. All rooms are elegant, modern and of high quality, equipped with air conditioning, jacuzzi baths, sauna, a mini-bar, TV-set, telephone, and Hi-Fi stereo. The motel has also a quality restaurant, parking lot with 24 hours security, car wash and car services.Q PTHLKDXS Motel Mig F-4, Filipa Macure 23, tel. 051 430 300, fax

051 430 303, [email protected], www.motel-mig.com. A basic motel, but very comfortable. Probably best for the budget traveller rather than the business man. It’s a bit out of the centre, but the neighbourhood is quiet and the staff are friendly. 15 rooms (single, double, triple and quadruple), 3 apartments. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. PALBK

Nana Banja Luka - Laktasi motorway, tel./fax 051 370

050, [email protected], www.motelnana.net. Located 2.5 kilometres out of Banja Luka, and along the motorway towards Laktasi, this is rather a place for a stop over if you are just passing through. Relatively cheap, clean rooms with a guarded parking lot, you won’t have to mind about anything. Their services offer internet connection in the rooms, satellite TV, a mini bar, telephone and air-conditioning and a restaurant. The receptionist does not speak English. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. (singles € 25, doubles € 30, triples € 45). PTHALEGKXS

Hotel Atina E-2, Slobodana Kokanovića 5, tel. 051 334

800, fax 051 334 811, [email protected], www.atinahotel.com. If you prefer to stay away from the rush of the city centre, this lovely, elegant hotel offers a peaceful location close to the Vrbas river but also within walking distance from all points of interest in the city. The hotel provides a pleasing atmosphere and a variety of bright, modern rooms and suites - be sure to ask for a room overlooking the river. There is 24 hour service, a restaurant, cake shop, nightclub and conservatory as well as an equipped gym, sauna and Jacuzzi. Q 20 rooms (singles € 55-75, doubles € 70, suites € 85200). PHA6FLGBKDXW

Hotel Bosna C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 97,

tel. 051 215 775, fax 051 215 717, info@hotelbosna. com, www.hotelbosna.com. The most renowned hotel in Banja Luka, satisfies the demands of all its guests. The hotel’s complex offers air-conditioned rooms from singles through to some exceptionally posh suites all complete with an aperitif bar, a piano bar, a bar ‘Mr. Black’ and a cake cafe ‘Mr.Brown’ both with terraces where locals and guests like to read newspapers and enjoy their morning coffee. You can enjoy culinary delights at restaurant “Ambassador”, with its pleasant interior and an open terrace, and in the evenings the “tamburasi” (a folk band with traditional string instruments) will entertain you while you dine. The lobby offers boutiques, a hairdresser, cosmetic salon, travel agency and a newspaper kiosk and below the complex lies the “Club Padrino” that anticipates more entertainment after dark.Q 300 rooms (singles € 39-98, doubles € 62-128, triple € 77-123, suites € 77-287). PJHA6ULEGBKXW

Hotel Cezar Mladena Stojanovica 123, tel. 052 326 400, fax 051 316 610, [email protected], www. hotel-cezar.com. Not centrally located, but easily accessible to the bus and train stations and Banja Luka’s big Fair Centre. All rooms are simple, plain and clean with wireless internet and all other necessaties. The cafe bar is extrememly welcoming and has a pub sort of feel about it. You may pop in for a drink at any time, breakfast or a late night snack. The restaurant offers local and international food to suit the needs of all its guests.Q Singles 40 Euros, Doubles 60 Euros, Apartment 50 Euros. PHAULGBKXSW

Mid-range Firenza D-3, Urosa Predica 1, tel. 051 311 290/051 302 725, [email protected], www.firencahotel.com. A cozy hotel in the Borik district of Banja Luka, and only less than a mile away from the city centre. Rooms are equipped with internet connection making it perfect for any business traveller. An extra plus is a beautiful, quiet garden where you can have breakfast from early spring to late autumn or simply relax all year round. Q Open 00:00 - 24:00. PALBKXW Garni Hotel Merriot Kozarska br. 85, tel. 051 217 801/051 222 871, fax 051 222 870, [email protected], www.hotelmerriot.com. A reasonably priced hotel with mods and cons that include a balcony, telephone, cable TV, en suite, air-conditioning and heating. A hairdressers is also on the premises. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. 27 rooms 36 Euros (single), 43 Euros (doubles). PHALBKX

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Where to stay

Glamočani bb Banja Luka 78000 Tel.: 00387 51 331 000 www.hotelcubic.com Hotel Palas D-1, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 60, tel.

051 218 723, fax 051 218 584, hotelpalasbl@inecco. net, www.hotelpalasbl.com. This is one of the most famous hotels in the region that of which has serviced the most demanding clientele. Built in 1933 and now protected as a national heritage marks it as an iconic building in Banja Luka. It is situated at the main city square and offers rooms equipped with a television set and a mini bar for a most satisfactory stay. The restaurant and coffee shop, as well as a pizzeria and cake shop with a selection of ice creams is at disposal to guests of the hotel. Extra services for your comfort include laundry and ironing services, a hairdresser and a tailor. The staff are available 24/7 and guests are entitled to use a free shuttle service to the airport, bus and railway station.Q 69 rooms (singles €31 - 52, doubles € 62, triples € 70, suites €77). PJHA6ULEGBKXSW

bright rooms and suites all equipped with bathrooms and lovely views of the main Orthodox Church in the city centre. For those that like to prepare food for them selves, some rooms are equipped with a kitchen. The lobby offers a large café, cake shop and pizzeria where you can also enjoy its Wi-Fi facility. You can be sure to expect comfortable accommodation and the highest quality of hospitality services.Q 23 rooms (singles € 62, doubles € 77, suites € 72-108). PTJHLNKXSW

Hotel Vidović D-2, Jevrejska bb, tel. 051 245 800/051

217 217, fax 051 211 100, [email protected], www.hotelvidovic.com. A perfect spot for the business traveller, as this hotel is prefectly situated amongst the city’s administrative, business and cultural institutions. All 48 rooms are elegantly fitted with en suite facilites. Two congress halls are available for your disposal, providing the best possible equipment. You have a choice of two restaurants that are attached to the hotel: one serves a range of international ‘a la carte’ cuisine, the other is an ‘express’ restaurant or ‘canteen’ offering local hearty meals, perfect if you are in a rush.It’s sister hotel ‘Krajina’ is located in Mrkonjic Grad, a tourist destination named BALKANA.Q 48 rooms (singles €70, doubles € 100, triples € 130). PJHAULG� KXSW Talija D-2, Srpska 9, tel. 051 349 200, fax 051 327 460, [email protected], www.hoteltalija.com. A pleasant hotel situated just south of the city centre offers fresh,

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Restaurants Restaurants catering local cuisine flourish in abundance in Banja Luka whereby you can indulge yourself in a variety of Bosnia’s local food and wine; if your diet permits it, this means hearty, meaty meals, stodgy soups or ‘goulash’ and within the fast food scale greasy ‘cevapi’, hamburgers and ‘burek’ (a pastry snack with a savoury filling). Don’t expect any other exotic offerings, other than the common ‘pizzeria’ which lies on almost every street, although be prepared for a pizza of Bosnian variation, rather than Italian. The following reviews present the best in local cuisine, from the finest in culinary delights to the most basic fast food joints. Vegetarian restaurants are inexistent, but be sure to ask the waiter to point you out the veggie friendly meals on the menu. Prices are affordable for all tastes and budgets and without a doubt, an enjoyable experience for all.

Balkan Citadela Kralja Alfonsa 2, tel. 051 226 807. This rather grand location has three eateries to claim as its own, though as far as visibility is concerned it’s the ice-cream that takes pride of place. The red facade looks grand enough with the punters licking their deserts just outside but there’s a whole world of cuisine waiting to be discovered down below and upstairs. “More is more”, seems to be the motto, to be frank. The word Citadel means ‘fortress’ but is that in this case meant to mean against good taste? Q Open 07:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. €3-25. PTJAUGBKXS

Jezero Prijedorska bb Trn, tel. 051 585 535. Along

the main road to Trn, you won’t be able to miss the magnificant Jezero restaurant that caters for about 2000 or more people per day. Located next to a lake, the restaurant provides a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. A children’s playground is adequately situated next to the restaurant. Q THAUILEGBKX

Kazamat Tvrđava Kastel, tel. 051 224 466. A serene,

luxurious place from which to admire the beautiful Vrabas and within the grounds of the castle as well. Ample dishes of grilled meat, potatoes and the crispest of salads are served up to the customers - who can also view their cutlets being cooked on an open grill. One of a number of eateries in the city which space their customers out so they are not sitting on top of one another. The local restaurateurs seemed to have thought through that aspect of dining out rather well. QOpen 09:00 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 - 24:00. €6-13. PT� LENGBKXS

Kod Muje C-2, Sime Solaje bb. If you fancy a proper

Bosnian meal, this place is known as the number one in barbequed cevapi and all manner of grilled meats. Kod Muje is a classic old-style eatery, passed down by its local family for years. The restaurant may look like a wooden cabin from the outside, but there is a beautiful terrace and garden and big umbrellas is case of rain or shine. Q J6UNB� KXS

Ognjište Josifa Pančića 2, tel. 065 222 777, info@

ognjiste.rs.ba, www.ognjiste.rs.sr. This a place for groups of four or more to revel in a traditional Slavic atmosphere and contains a brilliant novelty with its gastronomic museum, where guests can be treated to a short guide to the local cuisine. Also includes an ‘Ethno Shop’ where customers can buy wine from the region and other souvenirs to take away with them. Good, old-fashioned interior sets off the dining experience excellently. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 24:00. €2-20. PTILNGBKXS

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

Mala Stanica B-3, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića bb, tel. 051 326 730, [email protected], www. malastanica.com. The restaurant arose in the place of former railway station „Mala stanica“ that connected the city’s periphery with the centre in 19th century. You will notice details of rails, bells and clocks smartly used to decorate the restaurant’s interior.With its pleasant and relaxing ambience and gorgeous spacious garden, the restaurant is a perfect choice for a business lunch due to its prime location in the Government district or just for a casual chat with friends. The excellent menu offers a mixture of domestic, Italian and nouveau cuisine and a swanky wine list waiting to complete an eventful lunch or dinner. Mala Stanica will open yet another establishment of the same name in the Mercator Shopping Centre in Borik: the district of classy cafes and bars. QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Sat 07 - 00:01:00, Sun 07:00 - 01:00. €7-15. PTALGBKS My Way H-2, I.G.Kovacica 7, tel. 051 302 894, fax 051 312 577, [email protected]. Close to the Cetjovic Hotel, this restaurant offers a menu of traditional Balkan dishes, from which the speciality of the house “Pecena jagnjetina” or roasted lamb is a mouth-watering treat. In addition there are a range of fasinating grilled meats and local stews on offer. While you wait for your main course, take a couple of appetizers such as the (Paški sir) Pag cheese, (dalmatinski pršut) smoked ham from Dalmatia and a glass of Dalmatian local wine. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00. PAULKX Obala Jesenjinova 26, tel. 051 219 652, [email protected], www.restoran-obala.com. Jus down the road from Stari Mlin past a Muslim cemetery, this is another blissful place to eat by the river. The Vrabas is one of Banja Luka’s real gems and although it does take some extra effort to visit this restaurant and its near-neighbour - given they they are located some way from the city centre - it is really worth the extra effort.QOpen 07:30 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:30 - 01:00. €3-8. PTALEGBKX Sirano Karađorđevića 64, tel. 051 303 111/065 589 985. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. PK Stari Mlin Bogdana Marića 14, tel. 051 213 399,

[email protected], www.starimlin.com. Built on the site of an old mill on the banks of the river, this eatery declared a cultural landmark by the local government - is a glorious place to have dinner, situated as it is downstream where the rapids rush past with assorted swimmers, rafters and fishermen catching some vital leisure-time. The prices are also surprisingly reasonable for such a pristine setting, with the Vrabas glinting gloriously in the sunlight.QOpen 08:00 24:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 01:00. €2-30. TILNGKS

Symbol key P Air conditioning

A Credit cards accepted

E Live music

S Take away

T Child friendly

U Facilities for the disabled

R Internet

L Guarded parking

O Casino

J Old Town location

6 Animal friendly

W Wi-Fi

B Outside seating

V Home delivery

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Restaurants Vrbas G-4, Braće Potkonjaka 1, tel. 051 464 608, fax

Rostiljnica Roma F-3, Jovana Ducica 72, tel. 051 300

Fish

Pizzeta C-3, Gundulićeva 68, tel. 051 307 002/051

051 467 650. Named after the river it overlooks, this restaurant is an idyllic retreat in which to have lunch and shelter from the sun, with a very traditional meaty meal lying in wait. Only problem here might be that during the summer you could end up envying the swimmers taking a cooling and refreshing dip down there below.QOpen 07:00 - 24:00. €6-33. PTAULGBKSW

Alas F-3, Braće Mažar i majke Marije 48, tel. 051 212

602, fax 051 211 678, [email protected], www.alasbl. com. A fish restaurant oozing with architectural and culinary charm, ‘Alas’ serves up a bewildering range of piscatorial delights to its customers, though the waiter might take a bit of time before bringing your plate to the table. But ‘slow food’ is the best kind, as we all know, so sit back, enjoy the pleasant surroundings and sip your drink, secure in the knowledge that at some point your taste buds are about to get a real treat. QOpen 08:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 01:00, Sun 12:00 01:00. €2-30. PTAILEGKS

Ambasador C-2, Karađorđevića 97, tel. 051 213 119,

www.hotelbosna.com/ambasadore. A chic restaurant part of the Hotel Bosna offers an “a la carte” menu ranging from local to international cuisine. The interior provides a warm, homely environment and the staff are professional and friendly. An open terrance is an excellent place to sit for any meal of the day and gaze out at the busy boulevard. In the evenings you can catch a traditional live band “tamburasi” that will play and sing while you dine in style. Romanov F-3, Krajiskih brigada 8, tel. 051 219 459/051 227 890, fax 051 216 805, kings.rr@inecco. net. Situated along the main road, 20 metres from the motel Dukic, this reasonable restaurants offers a range of marine specialties. It’s worth to try the fresh sea fish, crabs and shellfish. Q PAULGBKX

Vin Sente Vladike Platona 6, tel. 051 314 799. Situated

right next to the stadium of football club Borac, the leading team in Banja Luka and contenders in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s first division, here’s where you can have a go at a meatball before you get down to the football. However, more often than not the restaurant is frequented by business-people, though family celebrations also take place there. Either way it’s fine place to sit down and eat and the food is excellent. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. €3-10. PTALXS

395. Operates on the same principle as ‘Mira’ but is smaller and about five minute’s walk from the centre. The menu is exclusively for carnivores and includes all the national favourites, such as cevapi and the like. Provides outside seating, as well, so you can relax while trying out one or more of these essential examples of local cuisine. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00. €1,5-5. TJGBS

307 003, [email protected]. Does what it says on the tin or roof even. Gets a young crowd in to much away at the Italian standards just spitting distance from the city centre proper.QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. €1-9 Free Delivery available. PTJNGBS

Simke roštiljnica D-3, Vase Glušca 23, tel. 051 215

300/065 598 960. A lot less cramped than most other ‘grill’ cafes you’ll find in the Balkans, with its spacious seating area inside,could almost be mistaken for an American diner if it weren’t for all the local, succulent favorites on the menu. Strategically located next to Café Cult and the university campus, is a short hop, skip and a jump away for anyone tormented by the ‘beer munchies’. Every carnivore’s dream is served up in the glistening form of the ubiquitous ‘cevapi’ (small lamb sausages), ‘pljeskavica’, (hamburger) and pileci batak (chicken sandwich), among others, though the establishment boasts a specialty of its own, aptly named ‘the dish for hungry eyes’. Not bad on your stomach either.

Venecija D-3, Vase Glušca bb. A fast food pizzeria, which is adequately open till late hours. They sell a variety of pizzas, pies and sandwiches. Home delivery and takeaway is available. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. PUNGKS

Cakes and Icecream Ciambella B-2, B-3, A-3, Petar Kocica 109, ciambela@

inecco.net, www.ciambella.ba. Try your pick on the vast choice of decorated cakes and icecreams in this pleasant rustic cake cafe. Q PJBXS

Cream G-2, Trive Amilice bb. A coffee shop and fast food restaurant all in one, probably the only cafe that allows you a coffee and a nibble on pizzas, lasagnas and pancakes. A pleasant place, but far from the centre of town, unless you happen to stay in the district of Rosulje. Q PKX Gondola D-3, Vojvode Putnika bb. Gondola is situated

Rostiljnica Biljana G-4, Cara Lazara, tel. 051 466 666/051 461 600. Probably one of the best places for grilled meats in town, especially after hours after a night of going out. When all entertainment has died down for the night, you can make your way here, for more drinking and a cevapi. It’s usually full to no surprise, alternatively you can order food to your hotel (be warned the lines are always busy!) QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. JNBKXS

away from the busy main streets, and placed right next to a park lined with trees. It makes a variety of coffees and serves a selection of filling cakes, ice creams and sweets. You can opt for the gothic, dark but classy interior or on a lovely day sit outside along the wide comfortable couches on the large open terrace.QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. PUBX X Pingvin C-2, Bana Lazarevića 18, tel. 051 307 250. One of the best ‘slasticarnas’ or cake cafes in town, and just of the main street. A great place to relax and chill out amongst all the sweets on offer. Q PJUBXS

Šareni kuvar , tel. 051 310 308. This is a perfect place

Plazma D-3, Vojvode Radomira Putnika 15, tel. 051 229

Fast food

for some quick, good quality fast food. Home delivery and take away are also available at no extra costs. Q KS

Cap-Cap G-4, Cara Lazara 18, tel. 065 583 452. The ‘Banjalucki’ McDonalds serves fast-food big hamburgers and sandwiches with a good selection of fillings and salads. Menu deals are also available. Q JNGBS banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

111, www.cafeplazma.com. A selection of unique and high-quality cakes made from fresh ingredients and fruits are available for your hearts content. Sit and enjoy the ambience after a busy day in town amongst the warm colours of the cake cafe’s interior design. Q PUBXS

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Restaurants Bakery Žitopeka G-4, Carice Milice 12, tel. 051 454 931, www.

zitopeka.com. Not a place to go and sit down and eat in, rather a bakery just over the bridge from the city centre. But this is an example of plenty of others in the Balkans - if you just want a quick snack rather than sit down and eat, here’s where you can grab a ‘burek’, a savory pastry filled with a choice from - meat, cheese or spinach. QOpen 00:00 24:00. €1,5-5. TJNGS

Manja D-3, Srpska 11, tel. 051 300 248, www.krajinaklas.com. If you have a ‘mania’ for the sweeter things in life then ‘Manja’ is the place for you. It is considered one of ‘the’ places in town to tuck into a cake or an ice-cream and provides outdoor seating for this purpose.However, the shop also sells a range of products for those planning a wedding or any other celebration. Has a bit of an odd neighbour though, in that it is right next door to the Hard Rock Cafe. Doesn’t conjure up the best of images. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 07:00 - 24:00. €2-30. PTJUGBXS

Pekoteka Nova Mlađe Čaušića 3, tel. 051 354 793. Though a bit out-of-town this bakery is famous for its ‘kifle’ (a kind of Balkan croissant) and other assorted pastries, including the ubiquitous ‘burek’ of course and a whole range of cakes and buns. The owner even allows his customers to sample his fare before buying the products whole, so in theory you could emerge well-fed without having spent a penny. In practice, though...that wouldn’t be the best form, would it? The shop is just 50 metres from the main road so if you are driving you can turn in with ease should you or your passengers suddenly get a bit peckish. Parking is so easy here the place has almost become a Bosnian version of the ‘drive-in’. QOpen 06:00 - 23:30. PTLNGS

Snack Bar Pet Plus . Nothing to do with pets…This tiny fast food joint

offers pizzas, sandwiches and delicious sweet and salty pancakes. Open all day and night, this is the best place to come for a snack after a night of clubbing. Q NS Plazma Vojvode Radomira Putnika 15, tel. 051 229 111, www.cafeplazma.com. Lots of cream cakes on display in the glass case by the counter, which will have the sweeter-toothed drooling. An airy, relaxed atmosphere by which to enjoy your creamy and chocolatey treats also awaits.QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Sun 08:00 - 24:00. €2-5. PTJAGBXSW

San Remo C-3, Gundulićeva 18b, tel. 051 315 815. Where a fountain splurges ostentatiously in the middle of the alfresco part just as the punters too wave their cash around, in one of the city’s more prosperous eateries. Situated on a pleasant street, just outside the centre of town, here’s where you can sample superior Italian fare in superior surroundings. QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. €2-6. PTJALGBXSW

Italian F Lounge D-3, Srpska 101, tel. 065 099 558. Brings in an after-work crowd and the minimalistic decor does seem to suit the business lunch mood of the place. Appropriately enough sells sandwiches for those in need of a quick bite to eat or lunch-on-the-run.QOpen 07:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 23:00. €2-13. PTJALGKS Harizma Gavre Vučkovića 1, tel. 051 211 888, info@ harizma-bl.com, www.harizma-bl.com. The name doesn’t quite give away the clue but they do English breakfasts here at a snip for 10 km. You might also find yourself rubbing shoulders here with European policemen and women, who are here for some sort of noble purpose or other. Do big salads tooQOpen 07:00 - 24:00. €4-10. PTALBS Marco Polo E-5, Bulevar Stepe Stepanovića 185A, tel.

051 435 444, www.restoranmarcopolo.com. Big, bulky menus that look more like photo-albums show off Italian and Chinese cuisine which is prepared in tribute to the eponymous traveller. Marine-type odours waft in from the nearby River Vrbas, which has the effect of getting the old appetite going. Nice and spacious, with plenty of foliage both in and outside adding to the feelings of repose one gets when dining there. The summer garden also affords very appealing views of the river.QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. €3-15. PTALGKS

My name is Luka D-3, Nikole Pašića 22, tel. 051 228 500. Unfortunately don’t get to hear much Suzanne Vega from the speakers in here, despite the name of the place. Plenty of high volume house gets pumped out though, which you get nod to as you flick through the menu consisting of Italian standards - pizza and pasta.QOpen 07:00 - 24:00. €1-4. PTJAUBKXSW

Mexican Master C-2, Sime Šolaje 7, tel. 051 317 444, info@ restoran-master.com, www.restoran-master.com. Mexican restaurant with generous portions, though the employer is also seems a benovelent type as the place has more staff than it knows what to do with. Very tasty food on the tomelike menu but the squat toilets are a nasty surprise. No cards accepted. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 24:00. €3-10. PTJNGKS

Pizzeria Langollo C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 103, tel. 051 213 400. Another place off the main boulevard this is also almost opposite the city’s cultural centre and just metres away from Banja Luka’s monument to its World War II heroes. Plenty of filling pizzas on the menu and a cool and spacious alfresco area to relax in too.QOpen 06:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 06:00 - 24:00. €2,5-5. PTJULNGBXS Banjaluka In Your Pocket

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Restaurants

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cafes 8 Osmica C-2, Bana Milosavljevića bb. A small café bar

stuck between Aria and Dionis and along the main walking street. It is rather unflattering and you probably won’t even notice it from the street, but if you do happen to pop inside the interior does seem comfortable enough for a midday coffee. Although, one would probably opt for the bigger and slightly more enticing cafes dominating the walking district around 8 Osmica. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. From April this joint is open till 24:00. 1-3 Euros. PJUBX

AB C-5, Mile Stupara bb. The large AB bar, decorated as

though you’ve just arrived at a tropical beach bar hosts various concerts by local bands and singers from Banja Luka. You can also enjoy a coffee here during the day, a bite to eat, play pool and surf the net if you’ve got your laptop handy. Q PEKX

Aria C-2, Bana Milosavljevća 2, tel. 051 310 064. A hop,

skip and a jump away from Tavita, this hang-out is on the side of the street where the shade descends, so the chilled-out atmosphere is even more evident than in its neighbor over the road. Fewer Roma children seem to see the place as ripe pickings for a bit of cash, so you’ll have a quieter time of it than in Tavita in that sense too. QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. PTJ6UNGX

Cafe Sky G-4, Cerska bb. Capriolo C-2, Bana Milosavljevića 12. A more of a romantic place for couples, adorned with red roses on each table and a selection of drinks, coffees and beautiful cakes. This is rather a place to spend a relaxing evening with your partner or to come for an evening treat. You will find this place on the main street, next to ‘Focus’ bar. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00. PJAUBKX Combo A-3, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 103, tel. 051 215 922. The smart leather furniture of the interior is unfortunately not matched by the rather ordinary tables and chairs outside in the forecourt. Just off the city centre’s main boulevard, so if you like people and car-watching, this could be the place for you. A good enough place to rest your weary feet though.QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. PTJUNBX

Down Town D-2, Bana Lazarevića 50, tel. 051 230 930.

Photo-journalistic decor, as well as some rafting and fishing pics - a clue as to two of the favoured sports in this part of the world - liven up this cafe on the corner of a busy main road, though not quite central, despite the name. Sells its own brand of coffee but doesn’t do draft beer, sadly.QOpen 07:00 - 23:00. PGXW

Emporio C-3, Nikole Pasica bb. If by chance you wander a bit out of the city centre, this may be a good spot for a drink either in the day or evening. Most visitors come here to read the local paper in peace and quiet. However, that is about as much thrilling as it gets. Focus C-2, Bana Milosavljevća bb. This pleasant bar is

a local haunt; it’s packed during the day for coffee breaks and the night dwells in beer drinking, commercial house and local dance music. Although, the name is not visible from the outside due to the marquee-like covers that are supposed to (unsuccessfully) form a terrace, it is on the main street in town.

Hard Rock Cafe D-3, C-3, Gundulićeva bb, tel. 066

201 828, [email protected], www.hardrockradiocafe.com. That logo known all around the world is emblazoned across the front of what is actually a cozy little pub, but which keeps to its theme adequately enough with rock band posters pinned up everywhere. Attracts a downto-earth, twenty-something crowd - somewhat younger than the Hard Rock Cafe brand normally pulls in other parts of the world.QOpen 07:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 24:00. PTJLENBXW

Hertz D-2, Jevrejska bb. A cafe during the day, turns late

night bar in the evenings. Especially on the weekends, turbo folk loving locals get drunk and merry before setting off to the clubs.

Coyote C-3, Nikole Pasica bb. This bar is devoted to and inspired by the animated cartoon characters ‘Coyote & the Road Runner’. If you were ever a fan, this just might be the perfect hangout on a night out! The atmosphere is always cheery and pleasant. Q PJX Cult D-3, Vase Glušca 27, tel. 065 593 584. Conviviality oozes from the walls in this no-nonsense boozer close to the river and the gallery of paintings adds an ambience which fuels intelligent conversation. With the best range of coffees in town and a rack of excellent wines to boot, Cult pulls in a regular, garrulous crowd. However, this adds to the fun of being there rather than be off-putting and the punters won’t mind you striking up a conversation with them at the drop of a hat.Q Open 08:00 - 23:00. PT6ULN� BXW Dionis C-2, Bana Milosavljevića 3, tel. 051 312 664. The

biggest cafe bar in the district is defiantly the most admired hangout along the main drag. The coffee is good, and one can even come for a drink in the evenings when the mood begins to spice up. Towards the back of the tavern, one can make use of its betting office, and its various gambling and slot machines. QOpen 00:00 - 23:00. From April - September the bar stays open till 24:00. 2-4 Euros. POJUBX

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

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cafes

Shakers Bar G-4, Stepe Stepanovica 185, shakers.bl@

gmail.com. The one and only ‘house of cocktails’ in Banja Luka. You will be spoilt for choice when you find yourself browsing through the menu of alcoholic and coffee cocktails on display. The atmosphere livens up in the evenings with a varied selection of music for all tastes. QOpen 08:00 23:00. 1 - 3 Euros. PLX

Johnny Be Goode C-4, Aleja Svetog Save bb. The bar is

rather run down and outstandingly small. You can probably fit about 10 people in one given moment! Rock music plays frequently, which fits to its décor of rock singer posters plastered onto the discoloured walls. Upstairs, there are a few gambling machines and a pool table. QOpen 08:00 - 23:00.

La Nina D-3, Gundulićeva 26, tel. 065 560 128. The day time clientele chill out on woven seats in a breezily airconditioned cafe, which becomes a bustling drinkers hub after dark. Quite a swanky establishment when all is said and done. Has a city centre feel to it, despite being off-the-beaten track somewhat.QOpen 08:00 - 24:00. PTJW

Moulin Rouge G-4, Cara Lazara bb. A small, cozy café/bar in the Oblicevo district, that provides a chill out atmosphere both during the day and in the evenings. The joint’s customers can use a wifi facility, thus attracting a fair share of business people during the day. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00. PBXW

Glamour C-2, Bana Milosavljevića bb. The name certainly

doesn’t describe this ordinary and dreary coffee spot in the city’s main café boulevard. Maybe it’s worth a few minutes of your time for a coffee or an evening drink, but its advisable to be off on your merry way to a more appealing selection of café and bars in its vicinity.QOpen 00:00 - 23:00. This cafe bar is open till 24:00 between April - September. PJUBX

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News Cafe D-1, Jevrejska 3. At first glance this seems like

an average enough cafe and the first room you come across is a standard, streamlined, corridor which only allows one person to walk down at a time. Then, you get to peer into the second part, which affords views of the women’s section of a department store. Just a bit distracting as you sip at your cappuccino but not exactly an unwelcome sight.QOpen 07:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 24:00, Sun 08:00 - 23:00. POJAGBX

Portobello C-2, Bana Milosavljevića bb. A cafe and a

‘slasticarna’ (cake cafe) which, also manages to prepare some sandwiches, satisfactorily allowing you to have a nibble while enjoying a coffee on your break-time. It is located at the beginning of the main café district, next to Glamour café. QOpen 00:00 - 23:00. From April - September this cafe is open until 24:00. PJUNBKX

Provence F-4, Miloša Obilića 37, tel. 051 430 372, [email protected], www.cafe-provence.com. The first bar of its kind in Banja Luka, where you can sample local wines and even from all over the world in deliciously salubrious surroundings. The owners also provide gratis cheese snacks to soak up the vintage you may well find yourself swishing around in your mouth. Just next door to the club Mystique, so might well be worth a visit to get the juices flowing before a night on the tiles. QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 01:00. PTA6ULEGXW

Banjaluka telephone code is +387 51 May - September 2009

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cafes Mister X D-3, Vojvode Putnika 9, tel. 065 836 466. Exotic face masks adorn the walls in this cafe, in an arty and more ‘independent’ interior than most of its neighbours in this part of the city. Doesn’t sell food though, unfortunately, otherwise could well be the pick of the bunch in the vicinity.QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. PTJ6ENBX

Mr. Br own & Mr. Black C-2, Kralja Petra I

Karađorđevića 97, tel. 051 215 775, fax 051 215 717, www.hotelbosna.com. Mr. Brown seems like an elegant bar, which also acts as a cafe/restaurant during the day. During the evenings, the lights dim down and locals crowd in before a night out. Next door, Mr. Black attracts a slightly younger and noisier crowd. Crowds pack in during the evenings and the night begins with ear-splitting commercial folk music. Both bars are part of the Hotel Bosna complex.

Maraton F-4, Mirka Kovačevića 27, tel. 065 820 932, www.maratoncafe.com. Suburban bar named after a Serbian film about a company of undertakers, but there’s nothing funereal about the this establishment. In fact, in many ways, it’s more like a museum than a pub, with loads of Communist-era photos and books, as well as stills from the film, pinned up all over the place. One of the photos is of the local football team Borac, before they beat Red Star Belgrade 1-0 in the Yugoslavian Cup. And if you are feeling really curious, you can flick through former Communist leader Jozef Broz Tito’s collected works.QOpen 07:00 - 00:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. TN Ramazzoti D-2, Veselina Masleše, tel. 051 211 779.

Just across the way from Vienna, as (the real) Italy is in some respects. Here the punters choose more shade than the opposite cafe, and while doing much the same thing as their counterparts a touch toe away, they can at least play footsy with them as the coffee, wine, or whatever else goes down.QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. PTJUNX

Paris D-5, Rade Vranješević 65, tel. 065 249 269. Though this is huddled away in the rather run-down suburbs, you would think you were a world away once inside. This is

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

a very hip, dimly-lit red-hued joint, with a tattoo-parlour up above. Good, funky beats get the toes tapping ahead of a night out on the town. Very classy.QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. TULENBX

Tavita C-2, Bana Milosavljevića 8, tel. 051 213 222. Located on the city’s main drag, this is arguably the place to do your people-watching while in Banja Luka, as the groups of pretty young things shuffle by. Roma children also get in on the act by jumping in with hands held out but they are friendly enough and are only after your spare change. You can while away hours here, doing absolutely nothing.QOpen 07:00 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. PTJUNBX Vienna D-2, Veselina Masleše, tel. 051 215 444. Tightlysqueezed into an alcove just off the main drag in Banja Luka, here’s where the lingering atmosphere belies the fact that most are supposed to be on their lunch breaks. Some might even bring in a ‘burek’ to chomp at while sipping hurriedly away at their cappuccinos. But it looks as if someone had picked it up from a beach on the Adriatic and planked it down here. So chilled out, you’ll be disgusted. And you won’t get a seat.QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00, Sun 08:00 - 24:00. PTJUNBX Castra D-5, Save Kovačevića 48, tel. 051 312 270. Riverside hang-out shaded by trees makes for a pleasant place to escape from the sun, when that’s blazing as it often does in Banja Luka. Home-made wooden furniture adds to the effect, though the owners could do with turning the music down just a touch if they want to make the cafe the chilled-out retreat it really has all the potential of being.QOpen 07:30 - 24:00, Fri 07:30 - 01:00, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. TLNBX OmCafe Coffee Shop D-3, Gavre Vuckovica bb, tel. 431 291, fax 431 292, [email protected], www.omcoffeeshop.com. Right next door and from the same owners as Pivnica Zlatni Lav, this stylish cafe/bar is a perfect spot for a drink or coffee in the late evening. On occasions there is live music. Q PUEX

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Nightlife Country Veljke Mlađenovića 3, tel. 065 407 666. Venue that specialises in the local ‘turbo-folk’ music, which many find an acquired taste, but others clearly lots of fun, so might be worth trying out to see where you stand on the subject. Also, seems to encourage some audience participation. Apparently, this is where many people who work abroad come to strut their stuff and wave their cash around when they are home.QOpen 19:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. PULENX K4 G-4, Majke Jugovića bb, tel. 051 439 136/051 319

Bang in the middle of the Balkans, tourists are welcome to experience a unique yet ‘contagious’ sub-genre of music called Turbo Folk, which originated in Serbia during the early 1990s and infested all corners of Ex-Jugosalvia. You can’t avoid them even if you try. These folk clubs or ‘folkotekas’ are plenty. Having said that, there are a variety of good bars and clubs that sway in different musical directions; rock music and electronic being popular amongst the young crowd. If you’re looking for a quiet drink with collegues or friends, wine cellars or ‘vinarnas’ are a great option for sipping local and international wines. Regulary, there are live concerts about town (especially in the main square in front of Boska Shopping Centre) where you can catch some well known local bands and musicians. A ‘Tamburasi’ night is also recommeded for those that wish to listen to traditional live folk music; played with a ‘tambura’, a traditional musical instrument.

Clubs Boom Boom Room D-1, Veselina Masleše 15/17, tel. 065 510 816. The onomatopoeic name does justice to the sound of hundreds of young revelers - who pack in well before the weekend begins - stomping up and down, as much as it does to the ear-splitting music. And they say that this place enjoyed wilder times before its recent face lift. That seems rather difficult to believe.QOpen 19:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 19:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. PNX

Capo Club D-2, Jevrejska bb. During the day, this place works a courteous, rustic pizzeria and the summer-style terrace brings the crowd for cocktails and chit-chat. At night, the bar and club offer a contrasted disobedient atmosphere where pretty young girls mingle amongst a slightly older businessmen crowd. The club itself has two floors; the flirtatious bar adorned with fancy chandeliers and curtains, and beneath it a hot dance floor banging out commercial dance music. Q PJLNBKXS

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275. Located on the the Vrbas river under the Venecija Bridge and near a student residence, this venue boasts a very unique feature to the entertainment it offers, for on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays a tambourine-orchestra plays there, of all things.On the other nights it functions as a normal, loud disco, but during the day families can be found making use of the garden that lies just outside. There is also a tennis court nearby, so the club is clearly doing its level best to be all things to all people.QOpen 07:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 04:00. PTULENBX Kruna D-1, Jevrejska 3, tel. 065 175 000/065 175 001, [email protected], www.clubkruna.com. Jammed packed night club right in the centre of town, there’s lots of boisterous fun to had here with the young punters often getting up close and personal as well. Have to climb what feels like an Aztec step pyramid to reach the place, though but there’s lot of chill-out space to rest awhile from that before shuffling to the dance floor. A venue for traditional boozy fun to the early hours.QOpen 20:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 20:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. PJUENX

Music Hall G-4, Carice Milice bb (S.D.Oblicevo). This haunt is a strictly underground club that hosts some of the best raves and international DJ names such as Umek, Trevor Rockcliffe, Oxia, Valentino Kanzyani to name but a few. Thanks to the Urban Beat Crew - DJs Sinisa Tamamovic and Mladen Tomic you can hang out in the one and only alternative music scene in Banja Luka. Check posters around town if something may be happening down there, or the Urban Beat website. Be aware, when I say ‘underground’ I do really mean that, as even the joint is falling apart and the toliets are frightening. But, its the best place to catch a party if youre the alternative type and hang out with the urban ravers of Banja Luka. QOpen 21:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 22:00 - 04:00. Closed Sun. JENX Mystique F-4, Miloša Obilića 35, tel. 065 981 354,

[email protected], www.myspace.com/barmystique. The mirrors from floor to ceiling make this sophisticated club look bigger than it actually is but there’s plenty of space to either kick back with friends on the ample sofas or try out your moves on the dance floor. This would appear to be the place to get noticed in.QOpen 19:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 19:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Sun. PLEXW

Padrino C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 97. A small club part of the Hotel Bosna and directly underneath, is a typical hang out for the local crowd that enjoy their local dance anthems and singing along to their favourite folk songs. On some occasions you pass on a themed night, which either tends to be electronic, latin or a student night. An excellent ‘Wyborowa’ polish vodka is available here.

Sokolski Dom F-3, Marije Bursac bb, tel. 065 605 159. A venue offering numerous events, however you can never be sure on which night something may be happening. Located by a shabby yard and litter bins, it has been host to electronic music nights and Balkan commercial music and guarantees a great time. Definitely worth a visit. May - September 2009

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City Pub C-2, Trg Palih Boraca. A pub as it should be: Underground D-2, Vase Pelegica 10, underground. [email protected], www.club-underground.com. A lively club, which is very popular with the locals, especially the ladies who like to pout, pose and “be seen” in this joint. After 12pm, the music changes from commercial house to a lunacy of turbo folk music where everyone sings and dances to their hearts content. Beautiful hostesses and dancers always hang around advertising beer and cigarettes on themed nights. QOpen 21:00 - 03:00. PNX

Pubs Irish Pub Orthodox Celts G-4, Stevana Bulajića 12, tel. 051 453 507/065 522 218, djajam@irishpubbl. com, www.irishpubbl.com. Standard-enough Irish boozer with lots of sentimental posters and pics stuck up all over the place. That said, it also has the slogan ‘Pogue ma thohoun’ up on the wall in big letters, which if you know your Gaelic will realise means something very different to the usual ‘Cead Mile Failte!’ (A Hundred Thousand Welcomes), that normally greets customers to such establishments. Gets full on Wednesdays, as well as the weekend.Q PLENX Peckam Pub F-4, Braće Mažar i majke Marije 7, www. dernek.ba. Not quite the Nag’s Head but this pub is at the same time a shrine to classic British sitcom ‘Only Fools and Horses’, which uncannily enjoys cult staus throughout the former Yugoslavia, even to this day. Lots of pics of Del Boy and Rodney adorn the walls and there’s even a Union Jack up there for good measure. Oddly, though, there is no working landline phone in the establishment. Someone must have gone and sold them a dodgy one...QOpen 07:00 - 24:00. PTJ6LB Banjaluka In Your Pocket

jam-packed, raucous with a fine selection of draught beers. This newly-opened haunt pumps out rock n’ roll and 80’s pop music and the occassional band or solo artist night. There is even an extra cold draught Guinness available. Let the night begin… Q JENX

Pivnica Zlatni Lav D-3, Gavre Vuckovica bb, tel. 051 431 291/051 431 293, fax 051 431 292, info@omcafe. net, www.omcafe.net. Just by the Venezia Bridge, and underneath the OMCafe, an underground ‘Golden Lion’ pub lurks, modestly adorned with large wooden tables and chairs. You can enjoy a good selection of draught beer, pub food and wine. The only sort of music you will hear is the occassional live band, that doesnt play for very long. It’s a chatty and social hangout for everyone. Q PEKX Wild Rose D-5, Rade Vranješević 103, tel. 065 535 920.

The prohibition, speak-easy decor looks the part in this USstyle watering-hole, complete with the inimitable bar-stools taking centre stage, though Eliot Ness and crew wouldn’t have much trouble finding the place given that you walk straight in off the street. But there’s no faulting the pleasant, clubbable atmosphere. QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 01:00. PT6LNGBX

Billiards Titanium C-4, Aleja Svetog Save bb. What once was a

prosperous club back in early naughties, Titanium fizzled away to become an unexciting bar, attracting very few customers in contrast to its heyday. Don’t be shocked when you see the large open, unused terrace covered in scaffolding or what looks like a warehouse. The interior is small, of what’s left of it, but if go downstairs you will find a billiard room which is somewhat relaxing for a game of pool with your mates. QOpen 00:00 - 23:00. PBX

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

What to see Cultural Centres Banski Dvor Cultural Centre C-2, Trg srpskih vladara

2, tel. 051 305 336, fax 051 305 002, banskidvor.kul. [email protected]. The Banski Dvor Cultural Centre was built from 1929-1932 to become the headquarters of the governor (‘Ban’) of the Vrbas Banovina province (that which extends from Banja Luka to its outer lying districts, through which the River Vrbas flows). However, from 1955 it was handed over to the city’s cultural centre and since 1998 it has been become a public institution. The center’s aim is to combine a number of different types of performance, exhibition, public discussion, lectures and club and art studio under one roof. Much of the inside of the building has been preserved since the 1930s, with the concert and conference still possessing their original designs. This is a multi-faceted cultural hub which is in many ways the lifeblood of Banja Luka’s artistic and intellectual community.Q PJHUEGBX

Film Institute , tel. 051 211 062, [email protected], www. bliff.net. The Film Institute created the first International Film Festival in Banja Luka in May 2008. The festival hosts international and local feature films, documentaries, children and student films alongside workshops and lectures from film and television professionals. Each year, the organisation bring a variety of Hollywood film stars, so you don’t need to blink twice if Johnny Depp walks past you on the street. The city and its surroundings have been blessed with an enchanting Castle, Orthodox churches, monasteries and a river brimming with wildlife and waterfalls. If you take a stroll though the city centre, the towering Orthodox Church of Jesus the Saviour dominates the cityscape. To the east of the city, across the river, you can explore the domains of the medival Kastel Fortress, one of Banja Luka’s main historical attractions. If you walk into one of the main tourist offices along the high street, be sure to ask about day trips and activites. If you’re up for any of the following thrills such as rafting, kayaking, diving, canyoning, hiking and trekking, climbing, mountaineering, parachuting or paragliding which are a great way to enjoy yourself amongst the breathtaking nature. If you have a pair of wheels, you can follow signs out of the city towards Jajce in which 4km down the road you will see a sign for the Krupa Monastery and waterfalls ‘Krupa Na Vrbasu’. Finally, if you fancy a bit of a hike, ask for directions towards Banj Brdo hill. Once you get to the top, there is a World War II memorial and a fantastic view of the city. This also makes a great place for a picnic and a barbeque on a sunny day.

Buildings Music Pavillion D-1, Park Petar Kocic. A glass building

situated within the domains of Banja Luka’s central park “Petar Kocic”. The music pavilion not only pays host to exceptional concerts, shows and exhibitions but it is also frequently used for educational purposes such as special workshops and lectures. The facility also provides a space for business conferences and regular tournaments such as chess. A cafe is located on the bottom floor with a view of the whole park, its flowers, fountains and a busy main square.

National and University Library Of the Republic of Srpska D-2, Jevrejska 30, tel. 051 215 894/051 215 822, fax 051 217 040, [email protected], www.nubrs. rs.ba. The modern library is a mixture of a computer center and a temple of culture.

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Gardens & Parks Banj Brdo . This is a hill just above the city which includes a World War II memorial and picnic grounds. But it is most popularly used as a means of gaining a vantage point over Banja Luka and bask in the views of the city taken in the blink of an eye. Sunset is a particularly good time to take the 30 minute hike it takes to get to the top, via tree-lined paths. Always a hit with the natives, even during winter when the snow adds that something extra to the scene.Q T6BK Park Mladen Stojanović A-4, Dr Mladena Stojanovića bb. Named after a doctor and World War II national hero, this is the largest park in the downtown area of Banja Luka and consists of plenty to keep the locals busy, including a number of tennis courts, a cafe and a restaurant. It is also large enough to host special events in the city, such as when the police invited all the schoolchildren along to sample their equipment and work in order to break down barriers between citizens and officers.Q TJULBKX Park Petar Kočić D-1, . The most central park in town,

it is named after a turn-of-the-century Serbian poet and writer who was born close to Banja Luka and whose statue is one of the main features of the space. Lots of young people and families throng to the place to take the weight of their feet, before either catching the bus home or carrying on with their shopping or nocturnal frolics. A glass-walled building has also recently been built in the park, which will be used to hold various cultural and musical events.Q TJH6UEBX

Water Mills and Cascades of the Krupa . Charm-

ing old water mills stand and watch almost as locals and tourists alike whip up surf with their high-speed rafting and canoeing along the rapids of the Krupa river. Nearby, however, anglers quietly cast their rods to see if they can catch a prize carp or trout, while walkers also use the area for more sedate purposes. But all three sports are taken deadly seriously on occasion, with international competitions a growing phenomenon.Q T6LB

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What to see Monuments & Archaeological Sites

Churches

Kastel Fortress E-1, E-2, . Perhaps Banja Luka’s most

Krupa Monastery Krupa na Vrbasu. The monastery is

striking structure with its high walls and towers, though it could do with some renovation work. But passing through the archway you are greeted with a wonderfully serene view of the Vrbas, along whose grassy banks locals idle away and read in bliss. Built by the Romans and then fortified again by the Ottomans, the fortress often hosts outdoor concerts but it is as a peaceful retreat from the bustle outside that gives it its real charm.Q JALGBKX

Theatres Childrens Theatre of the Republic of Srpska D-2,

Đure Daničića 1, tel. 051 215 991/051 232 830, fax 051 232 832, [email protected], www.djecijepozoristers.rs.ba. Established in 1955, the theater has played host to more than 300 plays with three million people paying to come and see them. The theater has also traveled to participate at a number of international festivals, including in other countries of the former Yugoslavia, Italy, Poland, and Bulgaria, as well as in and around the Republika Srpska.Q PTJHULEG

National Theatre of the Republic of Srpska C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 102, tel. 051 317 996/051 317 799, fax 051 314 001, [email protected], www.np.rs. ba. National Theatre of the Republic of Srpska was founded in 1930 in Banja Luka as the “The National Theatre of Vrbaska Banovina” and since than it has been the carrier of development of drama art in the town, as well as in the whole region. The Theatres projects have hosted many directors from Belgrade, Novi Sad, Nis, local and foreign artists, actors, singers, scenographers, costume designers and composers.Q PTJUG

thought to have been built at the end of the 13th century by King Milutin and can be found some 20 kilometers south of Banja Luka, near the Krupa River. Constructed over a necropolis, archaeological digs have also found evidence of an ancient basilica on the site, which can be dated back to the emergence of Christianity. However, the monastery has suffered major damage over the centuries thanks to the wars that have afflicted the region. During the Austro-Hungarian empire’s conflict with its Ottoman counterpart at the end of the 17th century it was attacked several times and was eventually rebuilt in the 19th century due to the assistance of the Sarajevan Archbishop Savo Kosanovic and others. Unfortunately, it was again burnt down during World War One and only restored in the 1960s. It has recently benefited from restoration work and now stands resplendent in a beautiful natural setting, with the river flowing past nearby.Q TG

Orthodox temple of Jesus the Savior C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića. The compact and brightly-coloured church right in the centre of town would probably compete with the Kastel as the city’s most eye-catching landmark of it wasn’t for the scaffolding surrounding it at the moment. The church was the pride of Banja Luka after it was built between 1925 and 1929 but was blown up by the Croatian ‘Ustashi’ puppet government of the Nazis in 1941 during their brutal occupation.After the war a new church in the same style was constructed but smaller and away from the city centre. But now it is being rebuilt in its original spot and will soon take pride of place in the hearts and minds of the locals once more.Q JUG

Museums Museum of Contemporary Art C-1, Trg srpskih junaka

2, tel. 051 215 364, [email protected]. Despite the name, the museum is actually located in a historical setting, that of an old railway station that was converted for its new purposes in 1980. A reminder of its former use comes in the form of a picture of a train painted on the walls outside. The gallery displays the largest collection of 20th century art in the whole of Republika Srpska and this is divided into exhibits of painting, graphic design, drawing, sculpture and new media art. Yet the museum has also become a showpiece for 21st century work as well, with some fascinating exhibits, such as the recent ‘Euroblic’ - a photojournalistic collection taken from the work of four local photographers - gaining pride of place. Much of this focused on everyday life in Republic of Srpska as well as its modern politics, with bleak hospital wards and demonstrations among the subjects. This latter included a quite remarkable shot of a large group of uniformed police gathered together. Nothing surprising to see this at a rally, of course, but in this instance the officers are actually the protestors. One of the key roles of the museum is to keep a close eye on the burgeoning talent in the region and it is clearly one it is performing well.QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. PTJUL

 Banjaluka telephone code is +387 51 Banjaluka In Your Pocket

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

What to see Museum of the Republic of Srpska D-2, Đure Dučića 1, tel. 051 215 973/051 215 984, fax 051 215 986, [email protected]. Built in 1930 and the inspiration of civic leader Ban Milosavljevic, whose aim was to collect and conserve a large number of highly valuable artifacts that had been found in the city’s vicinity, the museum contains an impressive range of archaeological, ethnographic and historical works. The museum quickly became influential throughout the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, which Banja Luka was part of until the Nazi occupation of World War II. The efforts of its first director, painter Spiro Bocaric, led to the ‘Museum of Vrbaska Banovina’, as it was then called, becoming an important cultural-historic institution, which held numerous exhibitions from all over the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. Its organization also began to take dynamic shape during this time, with a collection of prehistoric and historic coins and other forms of currency being installed, as well as a geological and paleontological exhibit. Added to these were also a tourist office, an archive and a museum library. The museum also published its first guide in four languages in 1938 but three years later it was to face the most tragic part of its history, when the Nazis and their Croatian puppet government ruled the city. Bocaric was himself brutally murdered and many of the artifacts were stolen, with the Fascist governors determined to turn the museum into a place glorifying their own highly questionable heritage.After liberation in 1945, the museum underwent further reorganization, employing new curators, historian, ethnologists and other specialists to mark a more stable period in its history, though it has moved premises seven times since then to the present day.With the disintegration of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, the museum was eventually given its current name has become a ‘state’ institution for the enclave Republika Srpska. It is currently located in the ‘The House of Solidarity’ (Dom Solidarnosti) building that was built after the great earthquake that hit Banja Luka in 1969. It now consists of six sections: the archaeological, historical, contemporary art, ethnological, naturalist and the library.QOpen 08:00 - 16:00, Sat 08:00 - 19:00, Sun 17:00 - 20:00. PTJULG

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Getting around Taxis Taxis are readily available and cheap, although do check if the meter is turned on or agree on a price before you set off on your journey. Taxi Numbers: Patrol Taxi - 1533 Bel Taxi - 1550 Euro Taxi - 1555 Banjalucki Taxi - 1544 Maxi Taxi - 1551 A Taxi - 1500 Mobil Taxi - 1566

Car Rental Ambassador C-3, Aleja Svetog Save bb, lok.3, tel./fax 051 218 339, tel. 065 333 222, www.RentaCarAmbassador.com. Located by the Hypo Adria Bank. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. Prices range from 65KM per day for a small Renault Clio, Chevrolet Lacetti or a Fiat 500 up to 160KM per day for a Ford Mondeo. Rent-a-car Omega C-1, Vidovdanska 57, tel. 051 213

355, [email protected]. Cars and minibus rental. Drivers service in Banjaluka and Bosnia and Herzegovina, airport transfer, credit car payment QOpen 08:00 - 15:00. A

The bus and train stations in Banja Luka are situated just a stone’s throw away from one another but both occupy an island of territory some way from the city centre, which is rather unusual. However, there are plenty of buses and taxis to get you to and from whichever one you are using. Make sure you have enough cash on you whether departing or arriving as neither station has a cash machine to speak of - another quirky characteristic - and you can’t buy tickets with cards. I once had to get a taxi back into town when I turned up cashless late at night just to get some money out before returning. That aside, there are quite a few places to sit and eat and drink in the vicinity - even till the early hours - which is a big plus, though don’t expect luxury.

Airlines Austrojet , tel. +43 662 20 30 20, fax +43 662

835403, www.austrojet.at. This small airline company is based in Salzburg and provides the following routes (Salzburg - Stuttgart - Salzburg - Banja Luka - Tivat - Banja Luka - Salzburg - Stuttgart - Salzburg). QOpen 08:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun.

B&H Airlines Branilaca grada broj 15, tel. 033 218 605/033 550 125, fax 033 550 126, [email protected], www.airbosna.ba. B&H Airlines is an airline based in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina operating scheduled and charter passenger services. Flag carrier of Bosnia and Herzegovina, its main base is Sarajevo International Airport. YAT Airlines Aerodrom Banjaluka, Mahovljani bb, tel./ fax 051 535 227, [email protected], www.jat.com. Jat Airways is the national airline of Serbia and the former national carrier of Yugoslavia, based in Belgrade. It operates scheduled domestic, regional and international services to 33 destinations in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, as well as charters and wet leases. Its main base is Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. QOpen 09:00 - 15:00. Closed Sat, Sun. Banjaluka In Your Pocket

Budget A-1, Krajiških brigada 233/065 549 560, fax

051 309 104, [email protected], www.budget.ba. Chauffeur services, Banjaluka-Airport transfer, on-line booking, credit card payment. Business-class, executives class, minibuses, limousines. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. A

Cooper šped H-1, Knjaza Miloša 85, tel. 051-371497/051-371-512, fax 051-371-956, coopersped@blic. net, www.coopersped.com. QOpen 08:00 - 16:00. Rover Rent a Car C-3, C-4, Aleja Svetog Save bb, lok.20a, tel. 051 224 700/065 455 452, fax 051 224 701, [email protected], www.rentacar-rover. com. Available 24 hr a day, cars rental. Minimal rental period -24 hrs QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. A

Petrol Stations Bukom d.o.o. Ramići bb, tel. 051 393 148/065 513

388, fax 051 392 002, [email protected]. Petrol station, coffee bar, technical review, car wash. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00.

Euro Benz d.o.o. Desanke Maksimović bb, tel. 051 433 330/065 513 136, fax 051 433 333.

Krajinapetrol a.d. H-1, Isaije Mitrovića 11, Knjaza

Miloša 14, Nikole Pašića 53, Ramići bb, tel. 051 220 920, [email protected], www.krajinapetrol.com. Here you can tap Eurodizel fuel, petrol engine MB-98 and unleaded petrol BMB-95. They sell a wide range of items and motor oil. A shop is on the premises.QOpen 06:00 23:00. AG

Petrol a.d. A-3, Dr Mladena Stojanovića bb, Bulevar srpske vojske 3, Branka Popovića bb, Krajiških brigada 2, I Krajiškog korpusa 2, Ramići bb, Manjačkih ustanika 36, tel. 051 313 159/051 314 286. QOpen 00:00 24:00. banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Getting around

Nafta Trans G-1, H-1, Ivana Gorana Kovačića bb, tel. 051 371 391.

OMV BH d.o.o A-1, Krajiških brigada 2, tel. 051 232 120, fax 051 232 124, [email protected], www. omv.ba. Petrol Station, shop, coffee bar, car wash, oil and lubricants. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. 00:00-24:00 petrol and shop, 07:00-23:00 coffee bar and car wash.

Train schedule From Banjaluka Dep. 01:43 01:43 02:21 02:21 02:21 04:07 04:07 04:21 07:20 07:20 13:15 15:29 15:29 15:29 15:32 22:25

City DOBOJ SARAJEVO/ PLOCE NOVI GRAD ZAGREB DOBRLJIN DOBRLJIN NOVI GRAD PLOCE NOVI GRAD DOBRLJIN PLOCE NOVI GRAD DOBRLJIN ZAGREB PLOCE BELGRADE

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

To Banjaluka Dep. 00:29

Bus schedule From Banjaluka Dep.

Arr.

City

05:00

12:17

NIS

06:00

14:17

BELGRADE

07:30

16:16

NOVI SAD

09:30

18:17

BELGRADE

12:00

20:17

SUBOTICA

12:00

22:17

LINZ (Wednesday,Sunday )

13:00

05:56

ZRENJANIN

13:15

12:25

ZURICH (Wednesday,Sunday )

15:00

14:18

SUBOTICA

17:00

17:18

BELGRADE

18:00

21:18

HERCEG NOVI

20:00

22:14

RIJEKA

22:00

05:02

VIENNA

22:00

05:56

KRAGUJEVAC

23:30

04:01

BELGRADE

May - September 2009

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Shopping Cosmetics Bozen Cosmetics C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 91, tel. 051 217 851, [email protected], www.bozencosmetics.com. Božen Cosmetics brings the unrivalled beauty of the sea, its rippling depths and the healing properties of its miraculous algae in the form of soaps, body lotions, creams, oils and fragrances. A lovely place to buy gifts or pamper yourself.QOpen 08:00 - 20:00, Sat 08:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. PJAD CM Cosmetic Market D-1, Jevrejska 2, tel. 051 215 853, [email protected], www.cmbih.com. Euro Dalia D-2, Veselina Masleše 3, tel. 051 229 780QOpen 08:00 - 20:00, Sat 08:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. PTJAUG Martimex D-2, Veselina Masleše 24, tel. 051 212 172. QOpen 08:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. PTJAG Vimkop H-1, Ivana Gorana Kovacica 9, tel. 051 320 960/051 320 961, fax 051 355 330, [email protected], www.vimkop.com. Hairdressers equipment and accessories, hair care, cosmetics and beauty products.

Electronics, Computers & Gadgets ALF-OM A-3, Dr. Mladena Stojanovića 43-45, tel./

fax 051 300 113, tel. 051 301 248, [email protected], www.alf-om.com.

Lately, new shopping centres have sprung up about town and in the suburbs. If it’s high street shopping you’re after, you will find little in terms of choice other than a Springfield, Mango and Terranova in the main shopping street. It’s probably good to have a peek in some small family-run boutiques, where you can usually find someting special. If you will be cooking during your stay, it’s best to head down to the fruit and vegetable market in the centre of town. Here you will find the freshest stock, dairy products, meat and fish brought from the surrounding villages. The supermarkets also offer a good choice of food and they are widely available.

Art & Antiques Galerija Grad C-2, Bana Milosavljevića 8, tel. 051

380 589.

Biscom D-2, Veselina Masleše 16, tel./fax 051 218 856, [email protected], www.biscomm.net. Biscom sells a variety of computers and laptops, alongside all other equipement and gadets you might need while on your business trip in Banja Luka. It also offers servicing and repairs in case of emergency breakdown. It’s sister shop is located at I. F. JUKIĆA 7. Canon Shop D-2, Jevrejska 1, tel. 051 228 200/065 650 559, fax 051 228 201, [email protected]. Photography, cameras and video recorders.

Infocom C-3, Vase Pelagica 21, tel./fax 051 229 400, [email protected], www.infocom.ba. This place sells computers and laptops for induviduals and offices, amongst all other bits and bobs. They also provide servicing and repairs. Q A

Galerija Kević C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, Aleja svetog Save

Fashion

Galerija likovnih umjetnosti RS C-1, Trg srpskih

Carapko Veselina Maslese. Perfectly located in the centre of the pedestrian high street, Carapko or similarly translated as ‘The Sock Man’ is a perfect spot to stock up on accessories, shoes, lingerie, hats, bags, socks, stockings and so forth. More often then not, there is always something special to pick up here in this pleasant, little establishment. Q PJAG

44, tel. 051 215 931.

junaka 2, tel. 051 215 364.

Umjetnički atelje Pavić F-4, Braće Mažar 52, tel.

051 212 336.

Bookshops Cambridge Centre Bookshop C-1, Trg srpskih junaka

4, tel. 051 221 731/051 221 731, bookshop@inecco. net, www.cambridgecentar.org. Although, mostly aimed for students studying a foreign language you can also come and buy literature and magazines in English, Italian and German. Knjižara Kultura D-1, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 83, tel. 051 215 571. An excellent bookshop situated in the city centre, which also acts like a stationary shop where you can find accessories for your office. Litera D-1, Jevrejska bb, tel. 051 218 577. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. PTJNG

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

Mango Veselina Maslese bb. Same old story as the Mango you’ve got back home. This clothes store for women is of high-quality and chic style. If you need to pick up any clothes for business, banquets or a date, Mango surely won’t dissappoint. Q PJAG

Flowers DMK-Danojević d.o.o. Zmaja Ognjenog Vuka 211, tel. 051 379 999/065 524 452, fax 051 370 929, [email protected]. banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Shopping Tamaris Company d.o.o. Jovana Raškovića 16, tel.

051 218 200/065 510 168, fax 051 216 457, info@ tamariscompany.com, www.tamariscompany.com.

Gifts & Souvenirs Duga’s Workshop & Ethno Gallery D-2, Srpska

14, tel. 051 315 882/051 312 208, fax 051 307 866, [email protected], w w w.workshopduga.rs.ba. Duga’s workshop and shop sells everything traditional and exclusive hand-made clothes and souvenirs from the region of Republika Srpska. Take a look at the selection of hand knitted clothes, table clothes, pillows, slippers and dolls. This is the perfect place to pick up some gifts and souvenirs for your family and friends back home. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. TJLG

Jewellery Astina D-3, Ugao Vase Pelagica i Bana Lazarevica, tel.

066 617 722/051 217 556, [email protected]. A sassy, unique and hip jewellers selling a range of quality accessories made from natural materials carefully handpicked from Latin America and Asia. The jewellery is crafted from rare pink pearls, silver, semi precious stones and huayruro seeds from the amazon (a bright red seed, similar to a small bean) which are perfect for birthday and wedding gifts.They operate on a fair trade principal.QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. PJAG

Goldsmiths Halić D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 22, tel. 051 203 353. Malbasic D-1, Veselina Maslese 17, tel. 051 229

616/051 228 591, fax 051 228 596, milena.vuletic@ malbasic.biz, www.malbasic.biz. A large selection of jewellery, accessories and watches are available here from designer labels. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00, Sat 08:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. PTJA

Markets Pijaca Market D-1, Relje Krilatice bb. For the freshest of

fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products and for a cheaper price have a little snoop here. Q Open 08:00 - 15:00. TJULNKX

Music Artist d.o.o G-1, Ivana Gorana Kovačića 203a, tel. 051 370 627, fax 051 371 977, [email protected], www.artist. ba. Pro audio equipment and musical instruments. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00, Sat 09:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun.

Shopping Malls Damjan D-1, Veselina Masleše 4, tel. 051 211 152, [email protected]. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00,

Sat 09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. PTJAUG

314 460, [email protected], www.jacimovic. com. A modern sports store offering a broad assortment of Adidas clothes, sport accessories and gear alongside other well known brands.

Maxi G-1, Ivana Gorana Kovačića bb, tel. 051 312 500. QOpen 07:30 - 21:00, Sun 07:30 - 16:00. PTAUL� GKXS

Supermarkets C Market D-1, Trg Krajine 2, tel. 051 211 034, fax 051 217 369. Right in the centre of town, inside the ‘Boska’ building this supermarket offers a range of food supplies including a butchers, fishmonger, dairy counter, bakers, fruit and vegetables stall, cosmetics and household appliances. Dragstor Sindi D-3, Srpska bb, tel. 051 304 174/051 458 008. A small (and a little pricey) shopping centre where you can pick up some basics at any time of day and night. Alcohol is only sold up to 10pm daily. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. JAG Hypermarket Interex Branka Popovića 41, tel. 051 321 240, [email protected], www.interex.ba. Along the main road out of Banja Luka towards Zaluzani, the hypermarket Interex sells a wide range of items such as food, beverages, hygiene, technology, fruit and vegetables, meat, and frozen products. The cheapest food store in Banja Luka. Q PAULGX Mercator C-4, C-5, Aleja Svetog Save bb, tel. 033 286

130/033 286 130, fax 033 711 610, [email protected], www.mercator.ba. Yet to be opened later this year in Banjaluka, Mercator is a new hypermarket from Slovenia which will feature a large supermarket and 40 shops and boutiques selling everything from cosmetics, clothes and office and home furniture. Q PTAULGKX

Tempo H-1, Ivana Gorana Kovačića bb, www.tempocentar.com. The biggest supermarket in town offers domestic and foreign foods, clothes, cosmetics and domestic appliances.

Wines & Spirits Nektar Brewery Slatinska 8, tel. 051 334 100, info@ blpivara.com, www.banjaluckapivara.com. Banjaluka’s Brewery’s long tradition of producing beer dates to 1873. Take a peek into the wonderful world of beer-making, where all the different ingredients and processes can be revealed. After which, you can have a pint of the freshest and tastiest beer from the city.

Wonderland C-2, Bana Lazarevica 22, tel. 065 922 954,

[email protected], www.frutela.net. This place offers the finest of wines, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, cigars and chocolates

Department Store Boska D-1, Trg Krajine 2, tel. 051 308 803.

Juventa Sport F-3, Karađorđeva 83, tel. 051 212 904,

[email protected], www.jacimovic.com. The largest shopping center dedicated to both wholesale and retail of sports equipment, arms and hunting equipment located in the district of Laus.

Kuca Sports D-2, Srpska 20, tel. 051 306 446/051 banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

May - September 2009

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directory Whatever you may need at any given time, or in case of emergencies or any other matter you can find all addresses and numbers within our practical Directory.

UniCredit Zagrebačka banka d.d. B-3, Nikole Pašića

Banks

Volksbank AD D-1, Jevrejska bb, tel. 051 241 100,

Balkan Investment Bank AD C-2, Bana Milosavljevića

8, Branka Popovića bb, tel. 051 245 121, fax 051 245 122, [email protected], www.bib.ba. Balkan Investment Bank AD Banja Luka - one of the first commercial banks in the Balkan region created on the foundation of foreign capital. Balkan Investment Bank AD Banja Luka is a modern, dynamically developing bank. For the convenience of our clients we plan to open branches not only in other cities of the Republic of Srpska, but also in other states of the former Yugoslavia. Well-developed partnership ties with European, Russian, and American colleagues allow us to offer our clients a full package of services in the Balkan and international markets which comply with their requirements and needs. QOpen 08:00 - 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 16:30. Closed Sun.

Hypo Alpe Adria Bank C-4, Aleja Svetog Save 13,

38-40, Petra Kočića bb, tel. 051 319 053/051 300 945, [email protected], www.unizaba.ba.

fax 051 241 133, [email protected], www.volksbank-bl.ba. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00, Sat 08:30 - 13:00. Closed Sun.

Western Union D-1, Trg Krajine 2, RK Boska, tel. 051 220 800/080 020 404, www.transfernovac.ba. Other hot spots from Western Union money transfer: Aleja Svetog Save 13, Tel: 051 336 513 Kralja P. I Karadordevica 109, Tel: 051 223 823 Cara Lazara 21, Tel: 051 432 934 I.F. Jukica 9, Tel: 051 244 916 Zepter Komerc banka a.d. D-1, Jevrejska bb, tel. 051 241 100, www.zepterkomercbanka.com.

Business Services

Ivana Frane Jukića 9, tel. 051 336 513, fax 051 336 516, [email protected], www.hypoalpe-adria.rs.ba. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00, Sat 08:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.

Aquarius Advertising d.o.o. Isidore Sekulić 22, tel. 051 220 760/051 220 750, fax 051 220 751, office@ aquariusogilvy.com, www.aquariusogilvy.com.

Komercijalna Bank AD D-1, Veselina Masleše 6, tel.

Dučića 41, tel. 051 326 481/051 326 480, office@ medyacentar.com, www.medyacentar.com. One of the leading marketing agency based in Banja Luka.

051 244 728, fax 051 244 720, [email protected], www.kombank-bl.com. Komercijalna banka a.d. Banja Luka was founded as a universal bank for performance of its activities in accordance with the Law on banks of Republika Srpska. Komercijalna banka a.d. Banja Luka focuses its business to providing quality and efficient banking service directed equally to business banking and retail banking. The bank provides services of domestic and international payment operations, exchange businesss, reception of cash deposits and other cash assets, issuing of guarantees, letters of credit and other types of surety, issuing and management of payment assets, loans to legal entities and private individuals. Bank is included into SWIFT (the biggest world network for financial transactions), and thus it is able to execute all instruments of payment operations with abroad. Potential clients can expect that Komercijalna banka a.d. Banja Luka, whose moto shall be “ It is easier with us“, to provide the most quality banking service and easier implementation of their business or individual goals. In other words to make their lives easier, and prettier as well. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00.

NLB Ra zvojna banka a.d. D-1, Kralja Petra I

Karađorđevića 85a, Milana Tepića 4, tel. 051 242 107, fax 051 242 192, [email protected], www. razvojnabanka.com/. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00.

Nova banka a.d. D-1, Veselina Masleše 1/III, tel. 055 230 300, fax 055 201 410, [email protected], www.novabanka.com. Pro Credit Bank D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića

91, tel. 051 229 340, fax 051 229 373, [email protected], www.procreditbank.ba. ProCredit Bank d.d. is a commercial bank offering full range of banking services (for companies, organizations, and retail clients) at favorable terms. We are focused on providing full client service. Our shareholders are committed to a long term support to our Bank.

Raiffeisen Bank d.d D-2, Jevrejska bb, Vase Pelagića 10, tel. 051 211 981/051 321 120, www.raiffeisenbank.ba.

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

Medya Centar Marketing Agency F-3, Jovana

Menadžer Ko. D-2, Kralja Alfonsa XIII 49a, tel. 051 333

500, fax 051 333 533, [email protected], www. menadzer.com. The company has a clear development vision, doing business profitably with continuously growth. Its strategic development is focused on continuous investment and monitoring new technology in particular telecommunications, printed media and WEB, which enables faster, more efficient and cheaper admission, data processing and data delivery. Our main activity is admission, data processing and commercial placement of various information, for both legal and private parties. VAS SMS and Premium rate services are new steps in our development.

Partner Marketing Consulting Agency A-2, Dragise Vasica 1a, tel. 051 318 839, fax 051 318 853, [email protected], www.pmca.ba. PARTNER Marketing Consulting Agency, Banja Luka is a full-service research agency, qualified and experienced in both qualitative and quantitative studies. Its expertise includes determination of research goals (in cooperation with the Client), questionnaire design and guide developing, sample design, briefing of all involved staff, fieldwork, data collection, data coding and entry, data processing, advanced statistical analyses, repor ting, presenting of results, providing continuous research plans and strategic backup for planned actions, as well as evaluation of achievements, communication with general public and professional bodies. Partner’s professional experience encompasses more than 150 research projects in domains of social sector, market research (both consumer and retail), media studies, politics, economics, advertising, government institutions, business environment, information technology, etc. Translating Agency Oxford Centre D-3, Nikole Pašića 9, tel. 051 308 150/065 925 935, fax 051 301 550, [email protected], www.oxford-centre.com. Oxford Translation a translation agency - is located in Banjaluka, BiH, but collaborates with professionals and delivers services worldwide. The scope of services encompass full translation banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

directory and interpretation services, rendered at various seminars, symposiums, congresses and workshops.

Translation Agency “Gama Prevodi” C-3, B-3, Gundulićeva 78/18, tel./fax 051 304 602, info@ gamaprevodi.com, www.gamaprevodi.com. Provides translation and interpreting services. Translators Vladike Varnave Nastića 77, tel. 051

French Consulate A-4, Dr. Mladena Stojanovića 1, tel. 051 303 925, fax 051 303 928.

German Consulate A-3, Dr. Mladena Stojanovića 1, tel. 051 303 925, fax 051 303 928, www.botschaftbh.de.

Serbian Consulate Vuka Karadžića 6, tel. 051 227 060, fax 051 227 040.

The United States of America Consulate F-3, Jovana

Dučića 5, tel. 051 211 500, fax 051 211 775.

312 601.

Foreign Institutes

Communications

bb.

British Council MESP Centre Banjaluka Kasarna Kozara Kraljice Marije bb, mesp.banjaluka@britishcouncil. ba, www.britishcouncil.org. The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations. In Bosnia and Herzegovina we are working to meet the aspirations of young Bosnians by creating opportunities in education, English language learning and cultural exchange. We work with our partners, both Bosnian and British, to showcase British excellence, innovation and creativity. We are a major channel for the UK’s public diplomacy in Bosnia and Herzegovina - putting Bosnian people in touch with people in the UK. We work for the benefit of the individual and for the mutual benefit of Britain and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

tel. 051 303 412.

Croatian Cultural Centre D-1, Kralja Petra I

Eronet HT , tel. 039 663 300, korisnicka.sluzba@ htmobilne.ba, www.eronet.ba.

Mobi’s A-3, M. Stojanovića 4, tel. 051 330 100. Mobile

network provider.

Telekom Srpske a.d. C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića

93, tel. 051 240 250, fax 051 217 995, marketing.dir@ mtel.ba, www.telekomsrpske.com.

Dry Cleaners Hemijska čistionica A-3, Dr. Mladena Stojanovića Hemijska čistionica AD-1 s.z.r. F-3, M. Popovića bb, Hemijska čistionica Jaćimović D-2, C-3, Vase

Pelagića 34, tel. 051 301 738.

Education Academy of Arts D-4, D-5, S. Kovačevića bb, tel. 051 316 292, www.aubl.org.

Cambridge Centre School of English D-1, C-2, Kralja

Petra I Karađorđevića 103, tel. 051 221 730, fax 051 221 731, [email protected]. College of Modern Management B-2, A-3, I krajiškog kropusa bb, tel. 051 322 852, fax 051 322 851, [email protected], www.mmcollege.edu.ba. Dialogos Language Centre C-2, Aleja Sv. Save 7a, Vase Pelagića 58, tel. 051 321 220/051 321 222, [email protected], www.dialogoscentar.com. QOpen 09:00 - 13:00 / 16:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. Language Studio Byblos D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 119, tel. 051 215 012/065 988 808, fax 051 357 475, [email protected], www.studiobyblos.com. Centre for Foreign Languages: english, german, italian, spanish, herbew, russian, greek , arab, chinese and japanese. Music School “Vlado Milošević” F-3, Jovana Dučića 23, tel. 051 214 786, www.muzicka-skola.org. Studio Lingua School of German D-1, C-2, Ulica Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 103, tel. 065 760 760, fax 051 213 061, [email protected], www.studiolingua.com. University of Banja Luka C-5, Bulevar vojvode Petra Bojovića 1A, tel. 051 321 171, fax 051 315 694, uni-bl@ blic.net, www.unibl.org.

Embassies & Consulates Austrian Consulate F-3, Jovana Dučića 52, tel. 051

Karađorđevića 87, tel. 051 219 329, hkc-banjaluka@ blic.net, www.hkc.hr.

Institut Francais en Bosnie-Herzegovine F-4, Simeuna Đaka 6, tel. 051 219 238, fax 051 214 079, [email protected], http://fr.groups.yahoo.com/group/ ccf-banjaluka/. The French Institute provide information on French culture though a variety of projects: evening film screenings, concerts, art exhibitions, language lessons for children and adults, French literature lectures, cooking classes and much more. QOpen 09:00 - 13:00 / 18:00 - 21:00. Closed Sat, Sun.

Hair & Beauty Barbers Studio Relax F-3, Sime Matavulja 6, tel. 051 216 255. Hairdressers for men only with studios around the city: Petra I Karađorđevića 86 Phone:051 211 354 Bana Milosavljevića 36 Phone:051 313 948 Dr. Mladena Stojanovića 11 Phone:051 345 141 Hair & Cosmetic Studio Solace D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 98, tel. 065 472 614. Hairdressers Salon Đurić C-2, Bana Milosavljevića 16, tel. 051 212 514. Hairdressers Salon Mira s.z.r. C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, Aleja svetog Save 46, tel. 051 217 215. Hairdressers Salon Relax D-1, Milana Tepića bb, tel. 051 216 624. Also studios of the same name: Jevrejska 6 Phone:051 315 534 Sime Matavulja 6 Phone:051 216 255 Hemel Beauty Centre D-1, Jevrejska 1, tel. 051 227 555, [email protected], www.hemelco.com. Montana-Dermatolaser studio D-1, Milana Tepića 6, tel. 051 226 020/065 587 492, fax 051 226 021, [email protected]. Laser treatments, dermatologist.

311 144.

British Embassy F-4, Simeuna Đaka 8, tel./fax 051 212 395, [email protected], www.britishembassy. gov.uk. Croatian General Consulate H-3, Milana Kranovića 1, tel. 051 305 100, fax 051 304 000. banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

www.inyourpocket.com

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directory Ministries Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management B-3,

Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 338 415, [email protected], www.vladars.net. Defence B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 311 858, www.vladars.net. Economic Relations B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 339 324, [email protected]. net, www.vladars.net. Economy, Energy and Development B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 339 581, mper@ mper.vladars.net, www.vladars.net. Education and Culture B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 338 461, [email protected], www.vladars.net.

Environment, Construction and Spatial Planning

B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 339 592, [email protected], www.vladars.net. Finance B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 339 155/051 331 350, [email protected], www.vladars.net. Foreign Affairs B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 338 642, [email protected], www. vladars.net. Health and Social Welfare B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, 7th Floor, tel. 051 339 486, fax 051 339 665, [email protected], www.pcuhealth.org, www.vladars.net. Interior B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 338 478, [email protected], www.vladars. net. Justice B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 339 535/051 331 582, [email protected], www.vladars.net. Labour, Family and Social Affairs B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 338 602/051 338 332, [email protected], www.vladars.net. Public Administration B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 339 545, [email protected]. net, www.vladars.net. Science and Technology B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 338 731, [email protected]. net, www.vladars.net. Trade and Tourism B-3, Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 338 769, [email protected], www. vladars.net. Transport Trg Republike Srpske 1, Zgrada Vlade, tel. 051 339 603, [email protected], www.vladars. net.

Health Acupuncturist Dr. Botao B-2, Pave Radana 15, tel.

051 317 534. Acupuncture.

Centre for the Rehabilitation of hearing and speech Jovana Raškovića 28a, tel. 051 214 491. Deamedica Health Centre B-2, Pave Radana 57, tel.

051 309 221, fax 051 309 222, [email protected]. Orientation: surgical, internal, gynecology, cardiac, pediatric, skin, orthopedic, urology, psychiatric and neurological. Ultrasound Section and laboratory. Dental Studio Kostadinović C-1, Vidovdanska bb, tel./fax 051 213 312, tel. 065 528 403, kostadinovic@ blic.net. Dental Surgery D-2, D-3, Srpska 101, tel./fax 051 314 860, tel. 065 687 987, [email protected]. Dental Surgery Dr. Milan Vujnović Mileševska 33, tel./fax 051 469 884, tel. 065 922 511. QOpen 00:00

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

- 24:00. Emergency services 24 hours. Eye Doctor / Optician Dr. Bjelic B-2, Prvog Krajiskog korpusa 60, tel. 051 306 955/051 306 100. Eye doctor and opticians for all emergencies, operations and eye tests. Fizio Medik (Physiotheraphy) N. Tesle 1, tel. 051 230 700/065 417 139, fax 051 281 394. Physiotherapists. Ultra sound, check ups, therapies, massages, chinese therapies, thermo therapies, laser therapies, anti-cellulite programmes. QOpen 08:00 - 13:00 / 17:00 - 20:00. Gynecology Surgery Jelena F-3, Jovana Dučića 47, tel. 051 324 310, fax 051 302 669, [email protected], www.jelenamedico.com. Childrens Home Rada Vranješević F-4, Filipa Macure 25, tel. 051 461 928. Intermedik d.o.o. F-4, Braće Mažar i Majke Marije 3, Karađorđeva 49, tel. 051 216 711/051 213 404, [email protected]. Doctor’s surgery and chemists. Ortooptic d.o.o. D-1, Veselina Masleše 3, tel. 051 213 097/065 544 545, fax 051 213 099, beloptic@ blic.net. Opticians. Pharmacy Apoteka Hypericum F-3, Karađorđeva 29, tel. 051 311 755. Pharmacy Apoteka Omega Medika D-2, C-3, Vase Pelagića 6, tel. 051 312 140. Pharmacy Moje Apoteke D-2, Veselina Maslese bb. Pharmacy Palas D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 60, tel. 051-222-860. QOpen 07:30 - 16:00, Sat 08:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. Polyclinic “Nova Medicina” F-3, Zdravka Korde 3, tel. 051 217-171, fax 051 215 384. QOpen 10:00 - 12:00 / 15:00 - 18:00. Psiholosko Savjetovaliste (Psychology) D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra i Karadorcevica 113-115, tel. 051 347 431. Counsellors and psychologists for all related depression, stress and social problem illnesses. QOpen 17:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun.

Hospitals Clinical Centre / Paprikovac Hospital F-2, 12 beba bb, tel. 051 342 100/051 348 150, fax 051 310 530, [email protected], www.kc-bl.com. The main hospital in Banja Luka contains a maternity ward, a children’s ward, and clinics for all illnesses and diseases. There is also an emergency service. Q TULGK Hitna Pomoc (Emergency Help Hospital) F-3, Sime Matavulja bb. Q ULG

Insurance Companies BOBAR Insurance D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 103, tel. 052 215 770, [email protected], www.bobar. com. The basic businesses are: insurance, banking, engineering, trading, tourism, trading with oil, car vehicle inspection, international transportation, agricultural business, graphic industry, mass media, etc. Bosne Sunce Insurance B-2, I Krajiškog Korpusa bb, tel. 051 344 650/051 344 656, fax 051 344 663, www. bosna-sunce.ba. Grawe Insurance D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 109/2, tel. 051 222 960, fax 051 222 951, office. [email protected], www.grawe.rs.ba. Kosig Dunav Insurance D-2, Veselina Masleše 28, tel. 051 246 100/051 246 101, fax 051 211 686, [email protected], www.kosigdunav.com. Krajina Kopaonik Insurance A-3, M. Stojanovića 111, tel. 051 306 078. Second Office: Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 103 Phone:051 215 262 banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

directory Media Alternative Television C-3, Gunduliceva 33, tel. 051

348 248/051 320 720, fax 051 320 721, atv@inecco. net, www.atvbl.com. BIG Radio , tel. 051 212 700, marketing@bigradiobl. com, www.bigradiobl.com. Focuses on news stories, sport and music programming. Foto Klik s.z.r. A-3, M. Stojanovića 95, tel. 051 317 624. Photographers. Glas Srpske Newspaper F-4, Skendera Kulenovića bb, www.glassrpske.com. Halo oglasi - Mas Media d.o.o. D-2, C-3, Vase Pelagića 19, tel. 051 222 222/065 445 544, fax 051 222 220, [email protected], www.halo-oglasi. com. Halo Oglasi consists of the publication of free small ads in the area of sales, purchase, rent and exchange of goods and services, advertising and other commercial and business entities. The newspaper is printed weekly with a circulation of 8,000 copies, and distribution of newspapers is done in the territory of Republic of Srpska and the Federation of BiH. Hard Rock Cafe Radio 102,7 MHz D-3, Gunduliceva bb, tel. 051 306 540/065 809 753, fax 051 309 349, [email protected], www.hardrockradiocafe.com. As the name proudly suggests, this radio presents the best in rock music. Tune in on 102.7 Mhz Kadrovski Centar Human Resources F-3, Jovana Dučića 41, tel. 0 51 326 482, fax 051 326 481, [email protected], www.kadrovskicentar. com. Effective management of human resources for the importance of development and successful operations within every company. Nesavisne Newspaper H-2, Brace Pišteljic 1, tel. 051 331 800/051 331 850, fax 051 331 810, desk@ nezavisne.com, www.nezavisne.com. A newspaper about news, sport, travel, events, economics, Banja Luka and Sarajevo culture. Nes Radio , tel. 051 331 879, www.nesradio.com.

Features latest news, sport, entertainment and a mixture of modern music. Tune in on 88.4 MHz Banja Luka. Novi Reporter F-4, Duška Koščice 49, tel. 051 229 922, fax 051 324 611, [email protected], www.novireporter.com. A magazine focusing on economy, politics, culture and sport. Pink Television C-2, Kralja Petra I Karadordevica 103, tel. 051 217 898/051 217 900, fax 051 217 899, www. rtvpink.com. Pink BH is a leading television broadcasting company in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) that delivers highquality entertainment, news and informational programming to the viewing audience. Although a relatively new entrant, Pink BH has nonetheless quickly become a competitive force driving and shaping the commercial television market. Radio Television Republika Srpska B-3, Olimpijskih Pobjednika, www.rtrs.tv. Uno Radio D-1, Veselina Masleše br, tel. 051 218 530, fax 051 321 951. Presents news stories, entertainment and cultural events in the region. Tune in on 107.5 FM Banja Luka. Women Magazine D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 86a, tel./fax 051 215 900, tel. 065 938 298, [email protected]. A magazine for women focusing on health issues, family life, etc.

Photocopying Dita d.o.o. H-1, Srednjoškolska 18, tel. 051 353 113. Montgraf d.o.o. D-1, Jevrejska bb, tel. 051 211 992.

Real Estate Real Estate Popović D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 74, tel. 051 223 590/065 718 665, fax 051 223 592, [email protected], www.blnekretnine.com. Real Estate Senzor D-2, Veselina Masleše 1/9, tel./ fax 051 211 684, tel. 065 525 553, [email protected]. Real Estate Sezam d.o.o. D-2, Đ. Daničića 6, tel. 051 310 994, fax 051 310 017, sezamnekretnine@teleklik. net, www.sezamnekretnine.com.

Tourist Offices Tourist Organisation of the City of Banja Luka C-2, Bana Lazarevića 6, tel. 051 349 910, fax 051 349 912, [email protected], www.banjaluka-tourism.com.

Travel Agencies Adriatica Line Travel Agency C-3, B-4, Gundulićeva

78, tel. 051 307 582, fax 051 307 580, adriatica.line@ teol.net, www.adriaticaline.com. The travel agency organises individual and group travel throughout Europe and around the world, family holidays, winter holidays, city breaks and flight tickets. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. Air Srpska D-1, Veselina Masleše 20/2, tel. 051 211 186/051 213 262, fax 051 211 182, reservation@ airsrpska.ba.

 Banjaluka telephone code is +387 51 banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

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directory

Euroline Travel Agency D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I

Karađorđevića 97, tel. 051 225 220/051 225 221, fax 051 225 222, [email protected], www. euroline-travel.com. “Euroline Travel” agency in Banja Luka is established on the 23.06.2004. We have major subagency contracts with the leading travel agencies in Europe as well as those in the regions of Bosnia, Croatia, Slovenia and Serbia. We specialize in European and overseas travel, plane ticket sales, organization of congresses and fairs and cultural manifestations as well as sport events and matches anywhere in the world. Sebastian Travel Agency D-1, C-2, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 99a, tel. 051 224 030/051 218 998, [email protected], www.sebastijan.com. Splendid Travel d.o.o D-1, Veselina Maslese 4, tel./ fax 051 218 392, [email protected], www.splendidtravel.rs. Star Travel D-1, Jevrejska 6, tel. 051 213 705/051 220 500, fax 051 213-600, [email protected]. Zepter Passport D-1, Veselina Maslese 8, tel. 051 213 394, fax 051 229 852, [email protected], www.zepterpassport.com. Zepter Passport has directed an important part of its activities into the tourist services for foreign tourists who come to BiH. It is the fact that BiH has been omitted from the list of tourist destinations in Europe in the last fifteen years. However, rich and various culturalhistorical heritages, well preserved natural beauties and well known hospitality of the people, have brought BiH back to the tourist map of Europe. Zepter Passport focuses on adventure, excursions, day trips and sporting activities on the beautiful grounds of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Vehicle Repair Try the following numbers if you require any sort of repairs or services for your vehicle:

spare parts for vehicles of European manufactures such as VW, AUDI, OPEL, FORD, MERCEDES, BMW, PEUGEOT, RENAULT, CITROEN, FIAT and ZASTAVA.

Mail & Phones Blic.net Internet Services D-1, Jevrejska bb, lamela

3/II, tel. 051 240 830, fax 051 240 83, [email protected], www.blic.net. BLIC.NET d.o.o is the leading Internet service provider in the Republic of Srpska. Cityexpress d.o.o. E-3, Majke Jugovića 24, tel. 051 466 999. Mail delivery services in Banja Luka. DHL expo d.o.o. D-4, D-5, Bulevar vojvode Živojina Mišića 2, tel. 051 329 900. DHL mail and parcels express delivery. Internet Club Sani-Pan d.o.o. D-2, Veselina Masleše 3, tel. 051 220 051. (Post Office) Pošte srpske a.d. D-1, Kralja Petra I Karađorđevića 93, tel. 051 211 336, fax 051 211 304, [email protected], www.srpskeposte. com. Other post offices are also located at the following addresses: Cara Lazara bb in Oblicevo district and Jug Bogdana bb in Starcevica district. Q JUG

Important numbers Emergency Numbers Fire - 123 Medical Emergency - 124 Police - 122 Roadside Emergency - 1282 / 1288 Other Numbers Mahovljani Airport - 051 535 210 / 211 962 Bus Station - 051 315 355 / 315 867 Train Station - 051 301 229 University of Banja Luka - 051 212 066

Miskic - 051 385 225 Vidovic - 051 318 722 Sina d.o.o - 051 389 150

Auto Milovanović d.o.o. F-3, Dušana Subotića 6, tel. 051 228 523/051 228 521, fax 051 228 522, [email protected], www.automilovanovic. com. Services: Carwash Euro Benz d.o.o. Desanke Maksimović bb, tel. 051 433 330/065 513 136, fax 051 433 333. De-Mi promet d.o.o. Put srpskih branilaca bb, tel. 051 386 170/065 659 719, fax 051 386 168, auto-demi@ blic.net, www.demiauto.com. The company distributes

Banjaluka In Your Pocket

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Street register

Aleja Svetog Save C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5 Alekse Dundica F-3 Bana dr Todora Lazarevica C-2, D-2, D-3 Bana Milosavljevica C-2 Banijska F-1 Beogradska D-4 Boze Varicaka A-4 Bore Stankovica C-3, C-4 Branka Majstorovica F-4 Branka Radicevica C-1 Brace I sestara Glumac C-3 Brace Pantica F-3 Bulevar vojvode Zivojina Misica D-4, D-5, H-3 Bulevar vojvode Petra Bojovica C-5, D-5, E-5 Bulevar vojvode Stepanovica E-4, E-5 Bulevar vojvode Stepe Stepanovica G-4 Bulevar Srpske Vojske A-5, B-5 Cara Lazara G-4 Carice Milice G-4 Cerska G-4 Cetvrti prigradski put H-4 Cetrneste srednjobosanske brigade A-3, G-2 Dositeja Obradovica D-3, E-3 Dragise Vasica A-2, A-3

banjaluka.inyourpocket.com

Dr Jovana Raskovica F-2, F-3 Dr Velimira Colica F-2 Dr Vojislava – Dede Kecmanovica H-4 Dr Mladena Stojanovica B-2, B-3, A-3, A-4 Federika Grsije Lorke B-1 Frana Supila A-5 Gajeva D-1 Gavre Vuckovica D-3 Gorana Radulovica Bimbe E-2, D-2 Gradski most E-1 Gradski Park D-1 Grcka C-1 Gunduliceva D-3, C-3, B-4 Hercegnovska G-1 Ivana Gorana Kovacica G-1, H-1 Ivanu Franje Jukica D-2 Ive Lole Ribara D-1 Isalje Mitrovica E-1 Janka Veselinovica A-4, H-2 Jevrejska D-1, D-2, D-3 Jovana Ducica C-1 Jug Bogdana H-4, G-4 Knezopoljska C-5 Kninska D-1 Knjaza Milosa H-1 Kordunska D-5 Krajiskih brigada A-1, F-3, F-2, G-2, G-1

Kralja Alfonsa XIII D-2, D-3 Kralja Petra Prvog Karadordevica E-1, D-1, C-2, B-2, B-3, A-3 Majke Jugovica G-4 Majke Knezopoljke D-3, D-4 Masarikova A-2 Milana Radmana A-2, A-3 Milana Rakica E-2, E-3 Milana Tepica D-1 Mise Stupara C-4, C-5 Nedeljka Cabrinovica A-1, A-2 Nikole Pasica D-3, C-3 Nikole Tesle C-1 Novice Carovica D-3 Njegoseva A-2, G-1, G-2 Olimpijskih pobjednik B-3, B-4 Omladinska F-3, F-4 Pave Radana A-2, B-2 Patre E-1 Petra Kocica B-2, B-3, A-3 Petra Preradovica B-1 Petra Radenovica B-1 Prote N. Kostica H-1 Prvog Krajiskog korpusa B-2, B-3, A-3 Ravnogorska A-2 Rade Vranjesevic D-5 Ranka Milicevica A-2

Rebrovacki most E-5 Save Kovacevica D-4, D-5 Save Mrkalja C-1 Simeuna Daka F-4 Svetozara Markovica B-2 Slobodana Jovanovica A-1 Srpska D-2, D-3 Srpskih pilota B-1, A-2, Tarasa Sevcenka B-1, A-1 Teodora Kolokotronisa E-1 Tina Ujevica A-2 Trive Amelice G-2, G-1 Trg Krajine D-1 Trg palih boraca C-2 Trg srpskih vladara C-2 Trg srpskih junaka C-1 Tromede G-1 Urosa Predica D-3 Vase Glusca D-3 Vase Pelagica D-2 Venecija most E-3 Veselina Maslese D-1, D-2 Vidovdanska C-1, C-2 Vladike Platona C-3, B-3 Vojvode R. Putnika D-3 Zdrave Korde F-3

May - September 2009

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