Friday, December 30, 2016

Macedonia -- Books -- Part 2

While we are grateful that we can find so many good books and CDs and movies at our GULF BEACHES PUBLIC LIBRARY, we also wanted to invest in resources about Macedonia and Albania that we can call our own.  Books that can travel with us to the Balkans. Books that we can take notes in (and dogear the pages...)

After renewing the Pimsleur Albanian CDs at the library the maximum number of times, we decided that it would be a good idea to have the course that we can bring with us. 

We also had to buy the Macedonian book and CD course -- so that we could at least say здраво, добра ноќ, благодарам, молам.

The Bradt Macedonian travel guide makes us wonder if we have enough time to enjoy all of the parks and ski resorts and ancient Roman ruins and mosques and fortresses and lakes and cathedrals and ...

My daughter found this book about Mother Teresa -- who was from Skopje -- that she has been reading.  (There is a museum -- the Memorial House of Mother Teresa -- in Skopje -- on the site of the church where she was baptized.) 

We are also looking forward to learning more about Apostle Paul's travels through the region (and we are wondering if there are any landmarks to visit? although we won't be taking the road to Damascus any time soon...)

And I am looking forward to reading the Rossos history of Macedonia.  The Studies of Nationalities series published by the Hoover Institution Press at Stanford is outstanding.  We had found King's book on Moldova to be especially helpful as we prepared for that Fulbright. 

So much to read, so little time!

We can't wait till we land in Skopje...and immerse ourselves in all things Macedonian!


Macedonia -- Books -- Pinellas County Libraries




We are fortunate to have such a wonderful local library -- the GULF BEACHES PUBLIC LIBRARY -- within walking distance from our home.  As we were planning for the Fulbright to Macedonia, my daughter and I visited the library -- and checked out a variety (multi-media!) of resources about Macedonia.  And -- if the books/DVDs/CDs are not available at Gulf Beaches, we have a wonderful PINELLAS PUBLIC LIBRARY COOPERATIVE PPLC, that quickly ships the materials to Gulf Beaches via the inter-library loan system.  Thank you!

So far, we have enjoyed

--music CDs with folk music from Macedonia and from the former Yugoslavia

--language CDs -- the PIMSLEUR language series (our favorite! helped us to learn conversational Romanian and Russian before our Fulbright to Moldova...)  We were able to use the Pimsleur Albanian language CDs (mirëdita! faleminderit! mirupafshim!).  Unfortunately, there is no Pimsleur set of CDs for Macedonian.  (We purchased an alternative on Barnes and Noble website)

-- a number of books about Macedonia and Macedonians -- everything from my daughter's favorite series (Who Was? Who Is?) about Alexander the Great to cooking books to illustrated dictionaries (in Macedonian -- a reminder that we need to brush up on our Cyrillic alphabet before we land in Skopje)




South East European University -- SEEU -- Tetovo and Skopje

I am delighted that I will be teaching at the South East European University.

You can learn more about the history of SEEU on the website:
http://www.seeu.edu.mk/en/about/history


SEEU Logo

History of SEEU


In spring 2000, OSCE High Commissioner for National Minorities initiated discussions for establishment of a new university in the Republic of Macedonia, which was supported by international donors.
Following the adoption of the Law on Higher Education by the Parliament of the Republic of Macedonia, that allowed the founding of universities that are not related to the state and supported higher education in Albanian language. In late 2000, OSCE High Commissioner for National Minorities started the planning of the University. Construction work started in March 2001, and South East European University (SEEU) was opened six months later. In November 2002, the number of students was 2250, and in October 2003, the number of students was 3700.

From opening its campus in Tetovo in October 2001, it has succeeded in establishing itself as a quality-led, financially sustainable university. It is now regarded as a model for multi-ethnic, multi-lingual higher education in South East Europe.
Moreover, it has succeeded in combining the best of European and US experience, and has continued to benefit from academic collaborations sponsored by the EU Commission and USAID, among other donors. It benefits from scholarship support provided by The Netherlands and The Open Society Institute. Its history, which you can read in 'About the University' is a fascinating account of how SEEU has reached this position of strength against a background of political and economic uncertainties in the region. Now SEEU reaches out to other institutions in promoting research collaboration, exchange of students and staff and its community.
The University is equipped with many facilities that serve students in achieving their goals within the disciplines they have chosen.
Wanting all graduates to benefit fully from their solid academic backgrounds, the University provides support and practical advice concerning their careers. To support this, the university has signed cooperation agreements with private and public enterprises that can incorporate students in continuous practical work where they can maximally use the knowledge and skills acquired at SEEU.

State University Tetovo

I am delighted that I will be teaching at the State University of Tetova.
Tetova State University


http://unite.edu.mk/en/

Here is a brief history of SUT, as included on its website:

History of SUT
The State University of Tetova is open and accessible to all those who as students, teachers or associates, with their intellectual and moral qualities, in the defined environment of university autonomy as an allegation of academic freedom of individual expression and prove the skills and qualities, give their contribution in the field of education, science, and professionalism.  
“State University of Tetova has a short history but a long past”
This institution was founded on December 17th 1994 as an initiative of Albanian intellectuals, NGOs and various apolitical associations and all enthusiasts of higher education in the country and beyond. 
From this perspective, the activity, the development of the SUT can be divided into two periods:
-Period: 1994-2003 is the historical time of the creation of the University of Tetova
-Period: 2004-2010 is the period of institutional development of the University and the time of academic and physical modernization
The University, from the state of emergency, began to move toward academic, conceptual and institutional reform. The result of this unsparing activity and dimensioning is the new physiognomy of SUT. 
Therefore, SUT is affirmed as a reformed higher education institution, as a single public center in Albanian language in Macedonia for training, specialization and scientific research. SUT is a member of European University Association.
Today SUT is structured into 11 faculties, 35 study programs, 93 fields of study and 3 scientific research institutes.
Teaching scientific process  
The academic staff consists of 273 full professors and 355 associate professors engaged, or for one academic year, with progressive growth trend. 
Regarding the ​​teaching-educational process, the University pays special attention to the implementation of the Bologna reforms and reforms in the field of professional and scientific research, even though this component is still far from the targets of SUT compared with developed countries. These researches are carried out through joint projects thanks to Erasmus, DAAD, Tempus projects etc. for research and development. Relying on European standards, the academic research quality is on the increase.  
Next period will be the period that would give origin to SUT:
- The University Campus (where all faculties will concentrate in one place). The Campus will comprise: a building for the accommodation of undergraduate students, master students, doctoral students, specializing students, visiting professors and other guests, a student dormitory, a student canteen, sports arena, university library, modern computer center, construction of laboratories.
- Implementation of Credit Transfer and Accumulation System - ECTS as a credit accumulation system and as a credit transfer system,  
-Imperative for the implementation of ECTS will be mobility of students in order the students have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge at other universities who are signatories of the European Magna Carta
- Internationalization and integration of our University in all European university forums, i.e. in contemporary universities’ family. In this context, the cooperation with universities in the region and beyond has tripled.
- Enhancement of scientific-research work despite the academic one, will give a boost to the dimensioning of academic process that takes place at the university.  
-Offer and development of E-learning - learning via the Internet, electronic audio books, will increase the quality of teaching and learning
- Putting into operation the audio-visual gadgets already provided, in order to implement the method of "distance learning" with which the students in special classrooms will be able to attend lectures from distance  
- Completion of academic facilities and equipping of laboratories with the most modern equipment,
- Development and implementation of multiple projects within Institutes which represent integral unit of the University such as Institute of Ecology and Technology, Institute of Albanian Language and Culture "Josif Bageri" etc.
Intensive connection with European educational and research programs (TEMPUS, DAAD, USAID, SOROS, NATO, EU, Embassies of different countries) are priorities drawn up with the University Strategy.
- Dispersion of study programs in other cities, a process that will be compatible with those of high schools, with the sole purpose for the studies to be closer to the students.
The work and achievement level of the work done so far makes us feel proud, but also to be more vigilant in undertaking activities that will orient the university toward contemporary academic institutions. The Rectorate and the academic staff, first of all, bear historical responsibility for creating new systems of values, especially in education, science and culture which repres

Sunday, December 18, 2016

Daily Mail: "Macedonia's Beautiful Scenery and History is Attracting More Visitors"

Great surprises in the ancient land of Alexander: Macedonia's magnificent scenery and intriguing history are beginning to attract visitors

  •  Soviet gloom has long been banished in Macedonia and tourism is on the rise
  •  It boasts excellent sporting facilities and has fascinating archaeological sites
  •  Beautiful Lake Ohri has it all, from pure spring water to precious icons
Julius Caesar, Alexander the Great and St Paul were among those to stride its paved highways in ancient times; much of its artwork and architecture can rival any in Europe, while the sandy shores of its magnificent inland lake beat many a seaside resort.
Welcome to Macedonia. Landlocked by Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Bulgaria and Greece, the country may have a turbulent past. But after centuries of invasions and border disputes, it became an independent state in 1991. With Soviet gloom banished, the magnificent scenery, excellent sporting facilities, intriguing history and archaeological sites are beginning to attract visitors.
On our journey to Lake Ohrid, the diamond in this country of many treasures, we crossed part of the ancient Via Egnatia, one of the great Roman military roads of the ancient world – a 696-mile link between Macedonia and Istanbul. Much of the route fell into disuse but some sections are now a walking trail.
With Soviet gloom banished, the magnificent scenery, excellent sporting facilities, intriguing history and archaeological sites of Macedonia are beginning to attract visitors
This ancient and modern link threaded through our journey. Our accommodation included two nights in mountain monasteries – St Joakim Osogovski near the Bulgarian border in the east, founded in the 12th Century with its great collection of frescos; and St Jovan Bigorski, near the Albanian border in the west.
Straddling the Albanian border further south, beautiful Lake Ohrid has it all – pure spring water, some of the country’s most precious icons and, supposedly, a church for each day of the year. Ohrid town, a blend of cobbled old quarter and modern resort, has sandy beaches, lakeside walks and waterside restaurants. It’s blissfully relaxing.

Saturday, December 17, 2016

Vogue: "6 Non-Touristy Balkans Destinations That Should Top Your 2017 Travel Lists"

Vogue : "6 non-Touristy Balkans Destinations That Should Top Your 2017 Travel Lists"

6 Non-Touristy Balkans Destinations That Should Top Your 2017 Travel Lists


Sveti Jovan Kaneo Church on Lake Ohrid in Macedonia
Photo: Alamy
Topping most travel lists is an island-hopping escapade through Croatia and Montenegro, as both countries offer a slew of stunning coastlines and Old World charm where cobblestoned streets and castles prove common. But unbeknownst to most, these countries are just the outset of exploration into the Balkans region, home to a number of culturally vibrant and naturally impressive countries where you won’t run into troves of tourists: You can dine alfresco at family-run, waterfront restaurants, and you don’t have to dodge selfie sticks while enjoying castle-top views. Here, discover six destinations in the Balkans you need to visit now.
OHRID, MACEDONIA
Locals stroll along a cobblestoned walkway, canoes drift in the lake’s oscillating waters, and a choir practices on the Church of St. Sophia steps as dusk begins to set: Welcome to Ohrid, Macedonia, an utterly perfect town full of Old World charm, set on the banks of brilliant Lake Ohrid. This UNESCO World Heritage Site sits at the intersection of three national parks, attracting hikers, bikers, and climbers to town, as well as those in search of a holiday, and it’s also the perfect place to enjoy Macedonia’s flourishing wine harvest. Stay in one of Ohrid’s many lakefront properties like Hotel Tino, or opt inland at Villa St. Sophia or Vila Mal Sveti Kliment. Wander Ohrid’s old town: Pass homes decorated with bougainvillea, flower pots, and ivy until you reach Kaneo Beach, home to family-run Restaurant Kaj Kanevche. End the night at Jazz Inn, a dive-bar-meets-live-music venue where locals convene. Visit Ohrid’s most photographed landmark, Church of St. John at Kaneo, and view the city from atop Samuel’s Fortress. For scenic views, take a drive through National Park Galičica to neighboring Lake Prespa, and enjoy an evening boat cruise to Restaurant Ostrovo set near the Black Drim River and the Monastery of Saint Naum.
PRIZREN, KOSOVO
In Kosovo, Prizren stands as the country’s beacon of creativity, set at the base of the Sharr Mountains along the river Bistrica and host to rich Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Visit during August when the city hosts DokuFest, the largest film festival in all of Kosovo, featuring live music sets, photo exhibitions, and screenings of more than 200 films from around the world. Stay at Hotel Kacinari or Hotel Centrum Prizren, and to get the most of both city and country life, tour the area with Butterfly Outdoor Adventure and Airtour: Begin with an interactive workshop at a local filigree factory, dine on kebabs near Prizren’s Stone Bridge at Te Syla, and venture uphill to the Prizren Fortress, which offers the perfect view of bustling Prizren from above. Head into nature on a hike to Struzha, where you can stay at a traditional guesthouse and enjoy a campfire and local meal before completing a cross-country hike from Kosovo to Macedonia, summiting Scarpa Peak and passing Kara Nikolla Lake along the way.
BELGRADE, SERBIA
As one of the most culturally vibrant cities in all of Europe, Belgrade is a capital where past and present merge into a beautifully bold, chaotically contemplative sprawl. Here, along the Danube and Sava Rivers, you can find more than two hundred floating bars, clubs, and restaurants, known locally as splavovi. Along the Sava, dine at Beton Hala, a former warehouse, home to minimalist Comunale Cafee e Cucina, Cantina de Frida, and Ambar, where chef Bojan Bocvarov serves a Balkan spread of grilled meat, local wine, and rakia, a liquor made from fermented fruit—a true staple throughout the Balkans. During a visit, opt for a stay at Square Nine Hotel Belgrade to explore the city’s many neighborhoods, including the old world Dorćol and the trendy Savamala, home to Belgrade’s newest art galleries and cultural centers. Visit one of the city’s permanent green markets to shop for fresh, local delicacies, and drop by Mikser House and KC Grad, two outposts turning the Savamala neighborhood into the city’s burgeoning cultural district.
TRANSYLVANIA, ROMANIA
Famous for its medieval towns and the illustrious tale of Dracula, the Transylvania region of Romania is more than its legend and lore. Explore Transylvania’s cultural heritage while biking its most beautiful natural areas with Ciclismo Classico. Stay at the restored, Renaissance-styled Castle Hotel Daniel, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Biertan, and savor Romania’s bounty during a cheese tasting at the Bio Mosna organic farm. Explore old towers and lively town squares and walk the Bridge of Lies while in Sibiu, one of Romania’s most beautiful cities and one of seven medieval citadels built by the Transylvanian Saxons. Sibiu is also home to Astra National Museum Complex, one of the largest open-air museums in Central and Eastern Europe. Continue your exploration of Transylvania in Brasov to view Saxon bastions and the Gothic-style Black Church, ending with a 15-mile climb on the Transfăgărășan alpine road to Bâlea Lake.
HIMARË, ALBANIA
On the Albanian Riviera, the sleepy town of Himarë awaits: Situated on the Ionian Sea and an accessible base point to sparsely visited alcoves like Gjipea Beach and Grama Bay, this town offers dramatic scenery you won’t tire of. The Ceraunian Mountains serve as the backdrop to crystal-clear beaches, and local outfitters like Zbulo deliver travelers to the nearby Llogara National Park, a stomping ground for those seeking to hike and cycle in the wild and spot indigenous species like native wolves, wildcats, and eagles. During a visit, meander up and down the Southern Albanian Coast, opting for a stay at Drymades Inn in Dhermi or Jaroal Hotel in Saranda. Roam the streets of Himarë to find a café that calls to you, and don’t miss a chance to dine at Veranda in neighboring Qeparo, where you can enjoy a homemade meal alfresco, underneath a blanket of shade trees and ivy.
HERZEGOVINA REGION, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
The Herzegovina region—located in the southern 20 percent of Bosnia and Herzegovina—is a gourmand and oenophile haven with myriad organic, homegrown food purveyors and wine producers all pioneering the Slow Food movement in the area. During a visit, book a holiday with Black Mountain, where you can stay at a rural, family-run estate and farm like Marica Gaj. Here, you can cook traditional meals while drinking the property’s very own wine. Stop by the stunning waterfalls of Kravice on the Trebižat River before arriving to Mostar: Walk amongst millhouse restaurants to the Stari Most, arguably the most famous bridges in all of the Balkans, which crosses Neretva River, connecting both sides of town. Sip a classic Turkish coffee before heading to Blagaj, one of the most beautiful village monasteries in Herzegovina and a source of the river Buna. Venturing further south, visit Stanica Ravno, a boutique hotel and winery converted from an old railway station, continuing to Vukoje Winery, a winery with sweeping views of the historic town of Trebinje. End your journey at Stara Hercegovina Restaurant, where you can try your hand at making prijesnac, a Serbian cheese soufflé made of eggs and cheese