Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country of rich culture and natural beauty, is increasingly recognizable by political tensions, conflicts and potential loopholes. Analysts warn – from the tourist oasis we become a risky point on the map of Europe.
And while Baščaršija still brings tourists, and caterers rub their hands contentedly, in the shadow of all louder political messages about the country’s degradation, concerns concern. Foreign visitors may not (yet) feel the crisis, but domestic tourism workers are already feeling – through cancel reservations, uncertainty and fear.
“There are no major cancellations for now, but people from the diaspora ask what happens. There are doze of fear,” the tourist guide Adnan Vlajčić points out.
Republika Srpska already recorded the first shocks – hoteliers notifying the dismissances, and the entity minister tries to explain the problem that “garbage does not take” and “rainfall”.
However, the essence is clear – as long as politicians threaten secession, provoke foreign diplomats and raise tensions, the security image of the country suffers. And without security – there is no tourist.
“Imagine that you are a German who just saw your minister was greeted in Banja Luka. Would he then book Holidays in RS?” Economic analyst Igor Gavran is wondering.
And while festivals are planned in Sarajevo, a bed is required in Trebinje more, and the Banja Luka Airport is preparing enhanced flights – all this hangs on the end. One statement, one new crisis, and everything can fall into the water.
And that is why the question is not whether the crisis will hit tourism – but when.
If politicians do not urgently silence war drums, I would very easily able from the country of history, kebabs and natural miracles, become a “red zone” on Google maps of tourists from all over the world, writes Noise.
