You have probably heard of the Balkans for all of the wrong reasons. The region hit the headlines in the 1990s when it was ravaged by genocide and war. The scars of this conflict remain, but this beautiful, mountainous area is now a safe and fascinating destination for those seeking an experience off the beaten path.

In June, AUIP Director Laura Sessions visited the Balkan areas of the former Yugoslavia, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia and Montenegro. Croatia is the most well-known destination because of its long, seductive Mediterranean coastline, but Laura’s unexpected highlight was Bosnia’s bustling capital city, Sarajevo. Pictured right, Laura walks the city’s streets.

Sarajevo is an eclectic mix of east-meets-west. Mosques, churches and synagogues are interspersed with ancient cobbled footpaths and bustling cafes and restaurants. Amongst all of this vibrancy, you could easily miss what is arguably the most famous bridge in the world, site of the assassination that sparked World War I and changed the world forever.

The incredible history, great food and wine, generous people and bargains at the Turkish market all make Sarajevo a top destination. But if you needed even more reason, how about the chance to sleep in the same bed that Bono slept in at the luxurious Hotel Michele?

Lonely Planet named Sarajevo as one of the top 10 cities to visit in 2010, but Laura’s advice is get in quick while it is still undiscovered!