"FROM NOVI GRAD TO TREBINJE, EVERY INCH IS WORTH VISITING"

Republika Srpska is rich in tourist potentials, yet often those areas blessed by nature remain under the radar, overshadowed by the more visited spots like Banja Luka, Trebinje, Banja Vrućica, and Jahorina. Nevertheless, almost every other corner of Republika Srpska hides treasures worth exploring, of which we might not even be aware.

The scent of grandma's kitchen, the view of the Adriatic Sea from the top of Orjen, and rafting through untouched nature are all within our reach.

Marko Radić, the head of the tourism promotion sector at the Tourist Organization of Republika Srpska, told "Glas Srpske" that people have mostly visited Banja Luka, Trebinje, East Sarajevo, and Banja Vrućica so far, but beyond that, there is something worth visiting in almost every part of the country.

According to Radić, wherever we go, we have something to visit and enjoy, and local tourist organizations must work hard to showcase the potentials they possess.

"A region rich in natural and cultural-historical heritage stretches from Banja Luka, through Mrkonjić Grad, to Šipovo and Ribnik. There is a great potential there, and the offer can be improved, focusing on micro-locations. In Ribnik, we already have developed fly fishing, in Šipovo the Janjske Islands, in Mrkonjić Grad the Balkana Lake. The whole area is rich, and the circle from Krupa na Vrbasu, which is interesting on its own with its fortress and viewpoint in Bočac, is worth visiting," said Radić.

According to him, one municipality stands out and is slowly becoming recognized as an attractive location.

"The tourism potential of the Foča municipality is unmatched by few local communities in Republika Srpska. Rafting is popular in spring and summer. Additionally, the Sutjeska National Park, with its proximity to Andrićgrad and Višegrad, is in a great location and has great potential for development alongside its fairy-tale nature," said Radić.

Radić also added that Herzegovina is not just Trebinje, although it is the most popular place in the country.

"We have the Bileća Lake and stećaks under UNESCO protection, Algagovac Lake in Nevesinje, Desivoje and Klinje lakes in Gacko, Mount Zelengora, Čemerno for winter tourism. There is a lot," said Radić.

However, what has become increasingly popular lately and what tourists seek is active holidays in nature.

"Adventure tourism is dominant, something everyone wants to experience. Our offer is based on staying in nature with the inevitable gastronomy. We have fewer urban tours, where only Banja Luka, Bijeljina, and Trebinje can respond to that challenge. From winter to summer tourism, everything is based on nature," said Radić.

Radić claims that gastronomy is one of our strongest assets and something that makes people gladly return to Republika Srpska.

"Gastronomy is very important to us, and through that area, we promote the culture, customs, and way of life of the local population. Anyone who comes to us encounters some specialty. Wherever we go, we always remember something delicious we tried. We love authentic and autochthonous. Every region has its specialty. We need to protect and brand items like ćevapi, cicvara, and everything else," said Radić.

Source: Glas Srpske