• Exploring My Neighbourhood in Rural Bosnia
    Dec 15 2024

    Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I explore the fascinating culture, history, and everyday life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this heart-shaped, but much misunderstood country.

    I’m David, your host, sharing stories, insights, and conversations from my life here in the north west of the country.

    Whether you’re a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, I’m so glad you’re here.

    Join me on a scenic 4.2 kilometre walk through the tranquil and picturesque landscapes of the part of northwest Bosnia and Herzegovina where I live.

    In this episode, I share glimpses of my rural neighbourhood, discuss the local culture, and provide insights into the changes over the past 30 years.

    I also touch on personal experiences, like my time in Canada, and offer reflections on the safety and community spirit of this beautiful country.

    Whether you're fascinated by rural life, history, or simply enjoy a good walk-and-talk, this episode has something for you.

    Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans. I hope you enjoyed today’s episode and that it gave you a little more insight into life and culture here in this fascinating part of the world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss a new release. And, if you have a moment, a quick rating or review would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.

    For more updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments consider Subscribing to My Blog.

    I’d also love to hear from you!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.

    Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.

    Enjoying the podcast? If you’d like to support the show and help me continue sharing stories and insights about life here in the Balkans, consider Buying Me a Coffee!

    Your support means the world and helps keep the episodes coming.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tamara Intro Tip

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    30 mins
  • Reflections from a Wet December Garden in Bosnia
    Dec 10 2024

    Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I explore the fascinating culture, history, and everyday life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this heart-shaped, but much misunderstood country.

    I’m David, your host, sharing stories, insights, and conversations from my life here in the north west of the country.

    Whether you’re a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, I’m so glad you’re here.

    In today’s episode, I’m coming to you from my misty, waterlogged garden in northwest Bosnia. Donning my trusty bobble hat, I reflect on life here in the Western Balkans as winter takes hold.

    In this chat, I share updates about my content journey, including experimenting with a new microphone setup, meet the Zoom H3, complete with a fluffy “dead cat” windshield! I’ll also touch on the magic of audio storytelling, the beauty of birdsong (yes, woodpeckers made a guest appearance), and the joys of living simply in this serene corner of the world.

    💬 What to Expect in This Episode:

    • The charm of a rainy Balkan winter day 🌧️

    • Exciting audio gear upgrades and future plans for content

    • Reflections on building community and the art of storytelling

    • Sneak peeks into upcoming podcasts and celebrations of two Christmases!

    Whether you’re a regular listener or discovering the podcast for the first time, this episode is all about connection, creativity, and embracing the little things that make life in the Balkans so unique.

    Stay warm, stay well, and let’s keep building this vibrant community together! 🌟

    📩 Let’s Connect:

    I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment or drop me a message. And don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes about life, culture, and stories from the Western Balkans.

    Until next time, “Vidimo se opet” (“See you soon”)!

    Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans. I hope you enjoyed today’s episode and that it gave you a little more insight into life and culture here in this fascinating part of the world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss a new release. And, if you have a moment, a quick rating or review would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.

    For more updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments consider Subscribing to My Blog.

    I’d also love to hear from you!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.

    Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.

    Enjoying the podcast? If you’d like to support the show and help me continue sharing stories and insights about life here in the Balkans, consider Buying Me a Coffee!

    Your support means the world and helps keep the episodes coming.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tamara Intro Tip

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    13 mins
  • Is Retirement in Bosnia and Herzegovina the SECRET to MY Happiness?
    Dec 9 2024

    Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I explore the fascinating culture, history, and everyday life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this heart-shaped, but much misunderstood country.

    I’m David, your host, sharing stories, insights, and conversations from my life here in the north west of the country.

    Whether you’re a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, I’m so glad you’re here.

    Join me on a chilly, late afternoon walk in the Balkans as I share updates following the popularity of my video on losing my Britishness.

    I ponder the challenges of maintaining an active lifestyle as I age, discuss the local scenery, and answer viewers' questions.

    I also delve into my passion for audio storytelling and reflect on my career in radio, from pirate stations to BBC and beyond.

    Plus, I talk about the charm of country living in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans. I hope you enjoyed today’s episode and that it gave you a little more insight into life and culture here in this fascinating part of the world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss a new release. And, if you have a moment, a quick rating or review would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.

    For more updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments consider Subscribing to My Blog.

    I’d also love to hear from you!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.

    Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.

    Enjoying the podcast? If you’d like to support the show and help me continue sharing stories and insights about life here in the Balkans, consider Buying Me a Coffee!

    Your support means the world and helps keep the episodes coming.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tamara Intro Tip

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    17 mins
  • Exploring My British Identity - Answering Your Burning Questions
    Dec 4 2024

    Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I explore the fascinating culture, history, and everyday life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this heart-shaped, but much misunderstood country.

    I’m David, your host, sharing stories, insights, and conversations from my life here in the north west of the country.

    Whether you’re a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, I’m so glad you’re here.

    In this episode, I reflect on the reception of my previous video on losing my Britishness, which garnered an impressive 780 views!

    I discuss my life as an expat, my love for tea and Marmite, the intricacies of being an 'in-betweener', and share some comments and thoughts from viewers.

    I also delve into the challenges and joys of living abroad, addressing topics like the local culture, challenges with power and water, and the emotional aspects of returning home to the UK.

    Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans. I hope you enjoyed today’s episode and that it gave you a little more insight into life and culture here in this fascinating part of the world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss a new release. And, if you have a moment, a quick rating or review would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.

    For more updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments consider Subscribing to My Blog.

    I’d also love to hear from you!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.

    Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.

    Enjoying the podcast? If you’d like to support the show and help me continue sharing stories and insights about life here in the Balkans, consider Buying Me a Coffee!

    Your support means the world and helps keep the episodes coming.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tamara Intro Tip

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    29 mins
  • 25 Years Abroad - Have I Lost My British Identity?
    Dec 1 2024

    Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I explore the fascinating culture, history, and everyday life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this heart-shaped, but much misunderstood country.

    I’m David, your host, sharing stories, insights, and conversations from my life here in the north west of the country.

    Whether you’re a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, I’m so glad you’re here.

    In this episode, I delve into the idea of losing my Britishness after living abroad for nearly 25 years.

    Reflecting on my early attempts to blend British traditions, especially during Christmas and summer celebrations, I discuss how these practices have faded over the years.

    I also share my current nostalgia, expressed through things like British TV and morning tea rituals.

    Despite challenges like a recent health scare and the difficulties of finding certain British foods, I express gratitude for my life abroad and ponder the future as I await my residency documents.

    Join me as I explore the journey of being an in-betweener and the joys and quirks of expat life.

    Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans. I hope you enjoyed today’s episode and that it gave you a little more insight into life and culture here in this fascinating part of the world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss a new release. And, if you have a moment, a quick rating or review would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.

    For more updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments consider Subscribing to My Blog.

    I’d also love to hear from you!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.

    Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.

    Enjoying the podcast? If you’d like to support the show and help me continue sharing stories and insights about life here in the Balkans, consider Buying Me a Coffee!

    Your support means the world and helps keep the episodes coming.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tamara Intro Tip

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    14 mins
  • Winter Preparations in Bosnia: I go behind the scenes of a Bosnian village Winter tradition.
    Nov 27 2024

    Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I explore the fascinating culture, history, and everyday life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this heart-shaped, but much misunderstood country.

    I’m David, your host, sharing stories, insights, and conversations from my life here in the north west of the country.

    Whether you’re a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, I’m so glad you’re here.

    In this episode, I visit my neighbour to see the process of butchering, jointing, and preparing a large pig for various uses like salting, drying, smoking, and making sausages.

    I'll show you around my neighbour's smallholding, explain the cultural significance, and share some insights into the local way of life.

    This is a candid look at rural living, as well as some tips for experiencing Bosnia off the beaten path.

    Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans. I hope you enjoyed today’s episode and that it gave you a little more insight into life and culture here in this fascinating part of the world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss a new release. And, if you have a moment, a quick rating or review would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.

    For more updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments consider Subscribing to My Blog.

    I’d also love to hear from you!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.

    Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.

    Enjoying the podcast? If you’d like to support the show and help me continue sharing stories and insights about life here in the Balkans, consider Buying Me a Coffee!

    Your support means the world and helps keep the episodes coming.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tamara Intro Tip

    Show more Show less
    10 mins
  • A Window into Winter in Bosnia
    Nov 25 2024

    Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I explore the fascinating culture, history, and everyday life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this heart-shaped, but much misunderstood country.

    I’m David, your host, sharing stories, insights, and conversations from my life here in the north west of the country.

    Whether you’re a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, I’m so glad you’re here.

    In this podcast, I share another glimpse of my life, this time during the first real snowfall of the winter.

    I’ll be talking about:

    Environmental challenges, including heavy snow, strong winds, and torrential rain, and their impacts on us such as power outages.

    A bit about our rural lifestyle, especially what its like living with a wood-heated home.

    Local food traditions, like pig slaughtering for winter food.

    The benefits and challenges of living in Bosnia, such as the lower cost of living, friendly locals, and the significance of learning at least some of the local language.

    I have decided to produce more “walk-and-talk”, storytelling podcasts, providing a personal account of my experiences, that I hope you will find interesting and engaging.

    Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans. I hope you enjoyed today’s episode and that it gave you a little more insight into life and culture here in this fascinating part of the world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss a new release. And, if you have a moment, a quick rating or review would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.

    For more updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments consider Subscribing to My Blog.

    I’d also love to hear from you!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.

    Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.

    Enjoying the podcast? If you’d like to support the show and help me continue sharing stories and insights about life here in the Balkans, consider Buying Me a Coffee!

    Your support means the world and helps keep the episodes coming.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tamara Intro Tip

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    17 mins
  • Is Bosnia the CHEAPEST Country in Europe for Expats?
    Nov 14 2024

    Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I explore the fascinating culture, history, and everyday life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this heart-shaped, but much misunderstood country.

    I’m David, your host, sharing stories, insights, and conversations from my life here in the north west of the country.

    Whether you’re a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, I’m so glad you’re here.

    In this episode, I address a common question from my viewers:/readers/listeners, “what does it cost to live in Bosnia and Herzegovina?”

    I take a shallow dive into the expenses you'll encounter, from rent and utilities to groceries and entertainment, and compare them with Western standards.

    A budget of $5,000 a month is more than enough to live comfortably here, even lavishly by local standards.

    I discuss the average local income, the affordability of various necessities, and the pros and cons of living in cities versus rural areas.

    Whether you're considering a move or just curious, this video will give you a clear picture of life in Bosnia.

    Find Out More Details of the

    Cost of Living in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/banja-luka

    Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans. I hope you enjoyed today’s episode and that it gave you a little more insight into life and culture here in this fascinating part of the world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss a new release. And, if you have a moment, a quick rating or review would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.

    For more updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments consider Subscribing to My Blog.

    I’d also love to hear from you!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.

    Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.

    Enjoying the podcast? If you’d like to support the show and help me continue sharing stories and insights about life here in the Balkans, consider Buying Me a Coffee!

    Your support means the world and helps keep the episodes coming.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tamara Intro Tip

    Show more Show less
    14 mins