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Guide to Skopje, Macedonia(F.Y.R.O.M.)
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Skopje
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Skopje
Unless you're a journalist or enjoy browsing through the history of what once was Yugoslavia, Macedonia may not seem all too appealing as the place to go for relaxation and rejuvenation. If you happen to carry such a notion, 'tis time to discard it. The capital of the Republic of Macedonia, Skopje, holds an incredibly rich history that reaches as far back as the Roman Empire. Skopje was designated the center of the Dardania Province, and for centuries it was considered one of the most instrumental in the governance of the region. After the European continent and the semblance of nations took shape, however, Skopje and what stood before Macedonia was put on the backburner in continental as well as global dealings. As you can suspect, Skopje still has yet to become a shining star once again, but do not allow its obscurity among worldly destinations keep you from delving in yourself. Many expect to see beautiful historic structures long hidden from the eyes of the world, yet because the region underwent such turmoil in the 20th century (mainly due to the earthquake of 1963), much of Skopje was forced to make efforts to rebuild on a massive scale. Modernism in nearly every corner is the result, and though it may seem quite a European metropolis of today, there are a few notable sites and remnants of what formerly stood inside the capital.
When to go:
Macedonia, along with Greece and others, sits closely to the Aegean Sea, a body of water that seems to offer a limitless bounty of perfect climate conditions. In summer, Skopje is adorned with clear blue skies that you only wish were visible 24 hours a day. When clouds roll over head, rain usually does follow, but if you happen to experience a downpour in the city, a short walk to the nearest museum or gallery will bring you to sites of a different sort but nonetheless wonderful. Also, in the warmer months, the people of Skopje hold festivities where anyone can partake in folk dance and watch concerts night and day.
Getting there and around:
Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands are all on top of Skopje Airport's international list of frequented countries, but with the exception of far reaching cities within North America, Australia, and elsewhere, travel to the city is really up for grabs. The rule of thumbs in this scenario is to take what you can get. If the flight schedule conflicts with your travel plans, it's advised that any changes be made with the latter. Buses are everyone's method of choice for travel within and without Skopje. They may be crowded and it can be tricky getting used to the schedule, but you'll save a bundle doing so.
Attractions:
The land today known as Macedonia has been conquered, renamed, altered, and conquered again so many times that the only way to obtain a comprehensive chronological view of past events is to visit the city's museums. Both the Macedonian Museum of Natural History and the City of Skopje Museum are at the top of the heap, but the lesser-known establishments also have items and ideas to contribute to the Skopje story.
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