Serbia is a landlocked country in the Balkan region of Europe. Although Serbia is not the Balkan leader of tourism, there are some incredible sights such as the Uvac canyon or the Skull tower, but these are just a few of many.
Like anywhere else there are risks and hazards involved with traveling to Serbia and visitors should beware of such.

Traveling info

All tourists traveling to Serbia must have a valid passport or a valid national ID card depending on their nationality. Some visitors may enter without the requirement of obtaining a visa and may stay for up to 90 days in a period of 6 months. Those who do not apply to that rule must obtain a visa. Tourist who chooses to drive in Serbia must have their national driving permit along with the international driving permit and vehicle documents i.e. vehicle registration and insurance certificate. Holders of European licenses are not required to obtain an IDP and may drive using their national permits.

Traveling hazards

Driving conditions in Serbia very, major roads connecting cities are usually well maintained however secondary roads are usually in poor condition. Local drivers often drive aggressively with little regard for traffic laws. Winter driving in Serbia can be difficult due to winter for which is particularly heavy around the Vojvodina area near the Hungarian border. Wild animals often venture onto the roads and cause serious traffic accidents, particularly during winter when the fog is up or all year round at night. There is an extensive public transport line connecting all major cities however these vehicles are often overcrowded and poorly maintained. Roadside assistance is available throughout the country. To contact roadside assistance dial 1987.

Environmental hazards

Serbia has a rich flora and fauna with some rare, almost endemic species like the Balkan Chamois. There are only a few which may pose a threat to humans. Bears and wolves, although few in numbers inhabit the Balkan mountain ranges. These animals usually avoid interaction with humans and stay far from areas populated by humans however approaching these animals might result in heavy injuries or even death. When hiking out in the country, make sure to make as many human noises as possible, even if alone. This will let the animals know you’re approaching and will allow them to retreat. Ticks are present throughout Serbia and are carriers of Lyme disease which attacks internal organs including the nervous system and the brain. If bitten by a tick, remove it and submit it to a laboratory for Lyme disease testing. The disease is difficult to cure in the early stages and gets more difficult as it progresses into later stages. Serbia is a landlocked country, however, there are many lakes and rivers which attract many for a variety of water activities. These hide no dangerous creatures however strong river currents are dangerous for inexperienced swimmers.
Serbia is vulnerable to a variety of natural hazards. Earthquakes strike Serbia every couple of months reaching a magnitude of 5 and over. Excessive rainfall, however, is the most serious danger to Serbia. Excessive rainfall causes floods and landslides which may in total effect over 30% of its agricultural lands and over 3 thousand kilometers of Serbian roads. To put that into perspective in 2014, Serbia was struck by the most devastating mixture of floods and landslides affecting over 1.5 million people and causing damages worth 1.7 billion USD.

Health hazards

There have been reports about the outbreak of measles in Serbia. All visitors are recommended to get their routine vaccines also known as the MMR or measles, mumps, rubella vaccine. Such a vaccine will ensure safety from contracting any of these diseases. There are several other vaccines which are not required but recommended before travel. These are hepatitis A and B and rabies vaccines. The aftermath of the conflict in the Balkans delivered a huge blow to the Serbian healthcare system. Despite the excellent skill of the physicians, facilities lacked in modern equipment. The situation, however, is constantly improving. Citizens now are provided with free healthcare. Expats are expected to pay up front for the services however emergency care is free for both citizens of Serbia and expats. Private health centers provide a better quality of service and shorter waiting times however these come at a greater expense.
In case of an emergency dial 194.

Crime

Serbia is considered a relatively safe country for tourists as it is designated in several national travel advisories. Normal precautions should be implemented. There have been reports of violent crime however this applies to organized crime groups fighting each other for dominance over the major trafficking route into western Europe. Tourists falling victims of OC groups are almost unheard of. Tourists should mainly worry about petty crime, like pickpocketing, bag snatching, etc. To avoid becoming a victim it is advised to avoid wearing expensive jewelry or being indiscreet with money. Pickpockets usually operate in popular tourist spots, buses or other forms of public communication and in heavily crowded areas. Drivers of private or rental vehicles should make sure to park in safe spots or guarded parking lots. Vehicle theft is common and once stolen it is rather gone for good as cars are swiftly dismantled for parts. Serbia has a very strict drug policy. Mere possession may lead to lengthy prison sentences.

Summary

Serbia is becoming an increasingly popular destination among particularly young western Europeans due to price and availability. More flock to experience Serbian culture and witness its wonders. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visa)
http://www.mfa.gov.rs/en/consular-affairs/entry-serbia/visa-requirements
(Vaccinations)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/serbia