Postcards from Bosnia is an audio journey into the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina ā seen through the eyes of an Englishman who has made this place his home.
Each episode is like a postcard: a small, personal glimpse into life, culture, history, and the beautiful messiness of daily moments.
Whether youāre curious about slow living, hidden corners of the Balkans, or what itās really like to grow older in a new culture, these stories invite you to pause, reflect, and connect.
šæ Slow Living in Bosnia: How Choosing a Slower Pace Fuels Creativity After 70
Monday, September 1, 2025 ā¢ Duration 09:07
Postcards from Bosnia is an audio journey into the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, seen through the eyes of an Englishman who has made this place his home.
Paid members get access to everything I create, including exclusive podcasts, behind-the-scenes reflections, photo essays, and more that I only share with my inner circle āāØThanks so much in advance.
In todayās episode of Postcards from Bosnia, Iām taking you behind the fast-paced noise of the internet to the quiet rhythms of my little village here in northern Bosnia and Herzegovina. Life here isnāt measured in likes, views, or endless notifications, itās shaped by the seasons, the people, and the simple rituals that keep us grounded.
As someone now in my seventies, Iāve discovered that choosing slow living in Bosnia has been the key to staying creative, active, and inspired. Iāll share how daily walks along the River Vrbas, conversations with neighbours, and even the traditions of harvest and rakija-making give me more energy and ideas than chasing trends ever could.
If youāve ever felt the pressure to post faster, scroll endlessly, or keep up with online trends, this episode is for you. Youāll hear why stepping back, embracing slower rhythms, and focusing on authentic storytelling can help you rediscover your creativity, no matter your age.
Slow living isnāt just a lifestyle choice, itās a creative toolkit. And here in Bosnia, it might just hold lessons for all of us.
Letās Stay Connected?
If you enjoyed this little postcard from my Bosnian summer, Iād love to hear from you. You can drop me a message.
Thank You
Thank you for listening to these little slices of my life. If youād like to get more stories, you can subscribe to my Substack, itās free, and if you ever want to upgrade to paid but canāt afford it, just email me. Iāll sort it out, no questions asked.
Here are 3 questions I have.
* What would make you hit āplayā on an audio post instead of just reading?
* What makes a podcast episode feel personal or meaningful to you?
* Would you like me to add audio versions of my blog posts so you can choose how to enjoy them?
Iāll give a complimentary subscription to Coffee and Rakija for life for taking the time to answer.
More From Me
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.coffeeandrakija.com/subscribe
Not too long ago, I was sitting quietly here at home when something odd happened.
My lower lip went numb.
Not entirely, but just enough to make me stop and think.
Now, for most people, that might not mean much. Maybe just a fleeting reminder of a trip to the dentist. But for me, it took me straight back, nearly 40 years back, in fact, to a part of my life I rarely talk about.
A chapter that began with a similar sensationā¦ and ended with me learning to walk again.
A Different Kind of Journey
Back in 1987, I was serving with the British Army in Germany. Life was, as it always seemed to be back then, busy, fast-paced, and full of uniformed routine.
And then I noticed something strange. First, the tingling around my mouth. Then the pins and needles in my feet. I chalked it up to tight boots. Classic army thinking, really.
But within days, my speech had started to slur. I was staggering, though I didnāt realise it at the time. My mates thought Iād been drinking. I hadnāt.
Things escalated quickly. I was sent to the military hospital in Hannover, where the doctors were puzzled. Tests, theories, guesses. No answers.
Within days, I was flown back to the UK, to the military hospital in Aldershot. And within hours of arriving, they had a diagnosis:
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Spring Sounds and Easter Feasts
Sunday, April 20, 2025 ā¢ Duration 14:55
Hello there, David here, from a Baby Boomer in Bosnia. If youāve been following along on Substack, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever our digital paths cross, thank you. I genuinely mean that. Itās a lovely thing, this little corner of the internet where we can connect, reflect, and share a slice of life.
If you donāt like listening to podcasts using Substack, then click the button below to find out all the alternatives.
Happy Easter!
Spring Vibes in Bosnia
Iām recording this from my garden on a warm Saturday afternoon, itās Easter Sunday tomorrow. Itās 24 degrees, blue skies, and the perfect backdrop for this edition of the Podcast.
If youāre new here, I also host another, companion podcast, An Englishman in the Balkans ā¬ļø.
šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia š§ is a listener-supported publication. To receive new episodes and support my work, consider becoming a subscriber.
A Soundtrack to My Life
Lately, Iāve become a bit obsessed with field recording. I love capturing natureās soundtrack. Birdsong at dawn, even the odd nightingale in the evenings. I recommend listening to my podcasts and soundscapes with headphones, to catch all those little details.
Easter Preparations and Family Traditions
Easter is a big deal here in the Republic of Srpska. While Iām not religious, I love the sense of togetherness it brings. Tamaraās busy in the kitchen prepping for tomorrowās feast. And as a ānodā to my britishness, sheās making Hot Cross Buns.Better than any Iāve had in the UK. Honestly!
Tamara discusses her thoughts on Hot Cross Buns and other British āTastesā ā¬ļø
Tamaraās Hot Cross Buns NEVER disappoint.
And our neighbours? Together with Tamaraās father, theyāre roasting a pig on a spit powered by a car battery. Classic Bosnia.
Get full access to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia š§ at This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Blossoms, Bees, and, Well, Just Life: An April Day in the Shire
Wednesday, April 9, 2025 ā¢ Duration 11:40
Hello there, David here, from a Baby Boomer in Bosnia. If youāve been following along on Substack, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever our digital paths cross, thank you. I genuinely mean that. Itās a lovely thing, this little corner of the internet where we can connect, reflect, and share a slice of life.
If you donāt like listening to podcasts using Substack, then click the button below to find out all the alternatives.
Greetings from the Shire! Itās a lovely April Wednesday here, and Iām out just admiring my surroundings.The weather I have to say is absolutely delightful. Thereās warmth in the air, but that familiar British style chill is still there.Despite recent rain and some strong wind, the blossoms on the fruit trees have held their ground.Bees are buzzing around my favourite sour cherry tree Will there be cherry jam later this year?
šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§ is a listener-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a subscriber.
Embracing Simplicity
As I might have already told you, Iāve been experimenting with field recording. As yet nothing fancy, just experimenting. Capturing everyday sounds like the neighbourās barking dog and bees buzzing has become really fun.I am looking at this new hobby as part of a broader shift such as tuning out of metrics and tuning in to authenticity. No more obsessing over my YouTube channel for example.Iām now far more interested in real conversations and meaningful connections.
Sharing the Journey
If youāre ever curious, feel free to drop me an email, like Brian from Sarajevo did. Iām not an expert on Bosnia, just someone living the story and happy to share it. And YES, Iāve been granted permanent residency for life.Next up? The grand adventure of converting my driving licence. More on that soon.
Reflections at Seventy
Being over seventy and living in here, as I have said so many times, has its quirks. I now find myself not just a father, but a friend to my grown kids, whoāve even suggested that I should take up Bosnian citizenship! Funny to think, back in the ā60s, that this would be my life.
Get full access to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia š§ at This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Mapping Listeners, Mowing Lawns, and Capturing Soundscapes
Friday, April 4, 2025 ā¢ Duration 13:54
Hello there, David here, from a Baby Boomer in Bosnia. If youāve been following along on Substack, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever our digital paths cross, thank you. I genuinely mean that. Itās a lovely thing, this little corner of the internet where we can connect, reflect, and share a slice of life.
If you donāt like listening to podcasts using Substack, then click the button below to find out all the alternatives.
šŗļø Mapping a Global Community
Lately, Iāve been working on a fun side project that warms my heart. Iām trying to map out where youāre all tuning in from, this wonderfully scattered global community thatās come together through storytelling. Imagine a Google map dotted with names: Peter in Ottawa, Jenny in Caracas, maybe even you? If youād like to add your pin, just drop me a quick note at questions@anenglishmaninthebalkans.com. Iāll give you a shoutout in an upcoming episode and plant your digital flag.
šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§ is a listener-supported publication. To receive new episodes and support my work, consider becoming a subscriber.
š± Mowing Between Showers
Speaking of the outdoors, Bosniaās weather has finally given us a breather from the rain. With the sun peeking through and the grass nearly reaching āsmall jungleā status, I decided to wrestle it back with our rather battered small electric mower. Between showers, I tackled it head-on, mower buzzing, the scent of damp earth rising with each pass. Worrying if was going to get electrocuted.
š§ Helping a Friend Launch a Podcast
The past few days has seen me helping my dear long time friend Rosie launch her new podcast, āFrontline Voicesā. Her work explores climate change, gender equality, and human security, amongst other topics.Big themes with an even bigger heart behind them. If these topics sound like your kind of thing, youāll find her here on Substack or otherwise, wherever you get your podcasts.
Get full access to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia š§ at This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Waking Up to the Dawn Chorus
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 ā¢ Duration 01:33:47
Welcome to the world of a "Baby Boomer in Bosnia," (me), a podcast from a spirited 70+ something British immigrant, whose plan is to take you along as I navigate life in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
If you donāt like listening to podcasts using Substack, then click the button below to find out all the alternatives.
In my last podcast episode, I mentioned a slightly ambitious idea. Waking up at 4 a.m. to capture the Dawn Chorus, this stunning natural symphony that starts in early spring and carries us gently into mid-autumn.
šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a subscriber.
Well, Iāll admit, just thinking about the early start kept me tossing and turning the night before. In the end, I didnāt quite manage the 4 a.m. mark, but I did roll out of bed at 5:30 a.m. on April 1st, still early enough to catch the magic.
Check out this Timelapse ā¬ļø
Into the Garden With a Recorder
I used my Zoom H6 Field Recorder to capture not only birdsong, a whole living soundscape. If youāve ever slept with the windows open in the countryside, youāll know exactly what I mean.
Life Begins to Stir
Youāll hear the village coming to life. The cars, the bus arriving to collect children going off for the first shift at the local primary school in LaktaÅ”i, and of course, birds, so many birds. Each one adding its own note to the chorus. Even our dogs join in.
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An Invitation to Listen
This recording is just over 90 minutes long, and Iād really encourage you to listen with headphones if you can. The recording is in stereo.Thereās something meditative about it donāt have to do anything except press play and let the morning sounds wash over you.
Get full access to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia š§ at This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
From Flooded Fields to Spring Blossoms
Monday, March 31, 2025 ā¢ Duration 11:04
Welcome to the world of a "Baby Boomer in Bosnia," (me), a podcast from a spirited 70+ something British immigrant, whose plan is to take you along as I navigate life in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
If you donāt like listening to podcasts using Substack, then click the button below to find out all the alternatives.
Hello from my rather soggy corner of northern Bosnia and Herzegovina. Iāve just trudged up the slope through to our top garden.I couldnāt help but take in the aftermath of the torrential rain weāve endured for the past three to four days. Itās been relentless, and with our heavy, clay-like soil, the water hasnāt had much chance to soak in. Puddles are everywhere, gushing down toward the storm drains like little brooks. Itās an ongoing battle, one Iāve shared before, but each time the rain falls like this, itās as if nature rewrites the landscape.
šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a subscriber.
Blossoms After the Flood
Looking down across the valley the water is starting to drain away. Not long ago, those fields were completely underwater. The change is subtle but hopeful. With the recent clock change, the sun feels warmer and brighter at this time of day (a little after 1700 CET). Itās casting a gentle light across the hills.Over by our neighbourās small holding, the fruit trees have erupted in delicate white blossoms. Itās a welcome contrast to the grey skies weāve had lately. And if the weather holds, it promises a good yield. Plenty of fruit for jams and, of course, for Tamaraās fatherās homemade rakija. A good year ahead, perhaps? Fingers crossed!
Field Recording: A New Audio Adventure
Lately, Iāve been diving into the world of field recording. Inspired by a few videos I stumbled upon, I decided to take my Zoom H6 recorder out for a spin. Well, a stroll. Armed with a windscreen affectionately called a ādead cat,ā Iāve started capturing the sounds around our home and village. Thereās something quite magical about hearing birdsong, wind through the trees, or even distant church bells recorded in crisp detail.
Get full access to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia š§ at This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Reflections from a Balcony
Friday, March 28, 2025 ā¢ Duration 13:14
Welcome to the world of a "Baby Boomer in Bosnia," (me), a podcast from a spirited 70+ something British immigrant, whose plan is to take you along as I navigate life in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
If you donāt like listening to podcasts using Substack, then click the button below to find out all the alternatives.
In this episode, I, share my reflective experiences of living in the tranquil rural landscape of Bosnia and Herzegovina.Join me as I navigate the beauty and solitude of my surroundings, all while contemplating the changes that come with aging.
šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a subscriber.
Iām sitting outside on my balcony. The birds are in full voice, the rain is still falling steadily, and I feel compelled to share a few thoughts, simple reflections, really, from my small hillside home.
The Dawn Chorus and Gentle Rain
There really is something magical about the mornings here. From spring until late autumn, the dawn chorus fills the air like a natural symphony. I never ever tire of it. And then thereās the rain. Itās the second day of steady downpour, the kind that pours across the clay-rich earth we have. Watching the storm drains do their job, guiding water down the slopes and away towards the river, is oddly satisfying.
Life in the Slow Lane
Living in a small village, has changed me. Once, I use to thrive on being around people, social events, shared hobbies, busy days. But those days have gently faded into something else. Now, Iāve learned to embrace the slower rhythm of village life, where silence isnāt emptiness but space to breathe.
My world these days often includes just my wife Tamara and the ever-changing seasons outside our window. We watch TV together, we chat, we walk. We donāt need much more. The nearest shop is a few kilometres away, so errands arenāt just chores, theyāre little adventures. Itās a quiet life, but itās rich in ways I never expected.
Get full access to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia š§ at This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
The Bosnian Mindset
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 ā¢ Duration 12:46
Welcome to the world of a "Baby Boomer in Bosnia," (me), a podcast from a spirited 70+ something British immigrant, whose plan is to take you along as I navigate life in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
If you donāt like listening to podcasts using Substack, then click the button below to find out all the alternatives.
In this episode, I navigate the challenges of reading your comments and reviews across various platforms. I discuss an insightful question from one of my listeners, Carlos, specifically delving into the cultural contrasts between Eastern Europe and the Western world.
šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a subscriber.
Embracing the Bosnian Mindset, A Journey of Cultural Discovery
I still remember the day, it was September the 18th 1998. I arrived in Banja Luka. It was very cold, the air was crisp, the streets full of garbage, everything totally grey and a long way from everything familiar. I had come from a world of double-decker buses, fish and chips, and a culture that prizes individuality and efficiency. And suddenly, I found myself in a place where none of that seemed to matter in the same way. Looking back now, more than two decades later, I realise just how much that journey has changed me.
At first, understandably, I saw everything through Western eyes. The language was unfamiliar, having two alphabets even more so, and the rhythm of life seemed somehow out of sync with what I knew. But there were also surprising similarities. European fashion, familiar brand names (albeit it at the time fake) in the shops, and shared tastes in food. I remember thinking, āThis place isnāt all that different.ā I even half-joked to myself that it felt a bit like how I imagined Soviet Russia might have been, not in a negative way, but in the sense of being starkly structured and a little mysterious. I was curious, maybe even a bit cautious, but definitely intrigued.
Thanks for reading A Baby Boomer in Bosnia! This post is public so feel free to share it.
Get full access to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia š§ at This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Unexpected YouTube Fame
Wednesday, March 19, 2025 ā¢ Duration 16:12
Welcome to the world of a "Baby Boomer in Bosnia," (me), a podcast from a spirited 70+ something British immigrant, whose plan is to take you along as I navigate life in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
If you donāt like listening to podcasts using Substack, then click the button below to find out all the alternatives.
In this episode, I walk around the upper garden with a steaming mug of Yorkshire tea, gazing out over all the pruning thats underway.These past few days I have been reflecting on how life has taken some surprising turns lately. Another funeral for a member of Tamaraās extended family for one.But every now and then, something happens that jolts me out of my quiet routine, like the sudden surge of attention of the latest video my YouTube channel.
A Baby Boomer in Bosnia is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a subscriber.
A Small Channel, A Big Surprise
I started a new YouTube channel, from scratch on 21st of December Last Year.Its a some what modest thing. Low production values and based on just āwalk and talkā style presentation.A few hundred subscribers, a couple of hundred views per video, as I say, just a place to share snippets of my life here, unfiltered and honest. But then, three days ago, something changed. One of my videos, a simple walk through my garden, suddenly took off. Views have skyrocketed to nearly 3,000 views (as I write this) and the comment section has became a flurry of opinions and assumptions.At first, I was thrilled. Any content creator, no matter how niche, enjoys seeing their work appreciated by a wider audience. But this excitement has quickly turned to apprehension. People have started making assumptions about my intentions, my opinions, and even my place here in Bosnia.
Some even believe I have taken a political stance, which I would never do especially living in a region where history still runs deep through everyday life.
Itās a stark reminder for me that visibility comes with consequences. Suddenly, my quiet reflections on village life have become open to scrutiny, misinterpretation, and debate. For someone who has always aimed to highlight the beauty of Bosnia and the warmth of its people, it is an unsettling experience.
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Related Shows Based on Content Similarities
Discover shows related to Postcards from Bosnia, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
It affects about 1 in 100,000 people each year. So not common. But when it strikes, it can be devastating.
Thereās no known cause, though itās often triggered by a viral or bacterial infection. And thereās no cure, only treatment and rehabilitation.
In my case, I was paralysed from the chest down. By Christmas Eve 1987, I was in intensive care, unable to move and barely able to breathe after also contracting the flu. It wasnāt exactly the festive break Iād imagined.
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The Long Way Back
Recovery was slow. Thereās no shortcut with GBS. It takes its time, and you just have to go along with it.
After some time in a general ward, wheelchair-bound and struggling, I was sent to a place that would become central to my recovery: RAF Headley Court.
Now, if youāve never heard of it, Headley Court was a military rehabilitation centre in Surrey, housed in a beautiful old country manor. For decades, it helped wounded service personnel rebuild their lives, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Originally opened during WWII to treat RAF pilots with severe injuries, it became known for its cutting-edge rehabilitation programmes and holistic approach. Sadly, the Ministry of Defence closed it in 2018, moving rehabilitation services elsewhere, but back in the 80s and 90s, it was a beacon of recovery.
And for me? It was where I learned to walk again. Literally.
Climbing stairs, balancing on crutches, falling down and getting back up.
There were days I thought I wouldnāt make it.
But the staff there were extraordinary. Firm but fair. Encouraging without pity.
Not Just Physical
One thing I hadnāt expected was the emotional toll.
When you lose your independence, even temporarily, you realise just how much you take for granted.
Simple things like walking to the bathroom. Signing your name. Holding a cup of tea.
Everything had to be relearned.
But slowly, with effort (and a bit of British stubbornness), I got there. And 18 months after that first numb lip, I was back in uniform. Not long after that, I was climbing volcanoes in the Ecuadorian Andes, just to prove to myself that I could.
Coffee and Rakija is a reader, listener, viewer-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
Still With Me?
I donāt tell this story very often. Itās not something that comes up in conversation here in the Balkans.
But that lip? That tiny little sensation the other day?
These days, Iām over 70 and still reasonably active, walking daily, exploring, creating, podcasting. But the fatigue that comes with GBS is something else. Itās not ordinary tiredness. Itās deeper. Heavier.
Back in the day, I ignored it. I was told to rest when I felt exhausted. I didnāt. Army culture doesnāt make room for naps.
But now? I listen to my body. I rest when I need to. And I donāt feel guilty about it anymore.
Why Iām Sharing This
Iām sharing this not because I want sympathy or attention, but because maybe, just maybe, someone else out there is struggling with strange symptoms, exhaustion, or the slow road to recovery.
If thatās you, youāre not weak. Youāre healing.
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A Bit of a Break
Iāve been quiet for about the last 10 days. I really needed a breather and spent quite a lot of time experimenting with soundscapes.Here I am documenting the ambient sounds of the roast at my neighbours ā¬ļø
Youāll be hearing more of those soon. No talking, just the world around me doing its thing.
Itās ALL about Cheese (Sir)
Thatās a Wrap Then
Thank you for tuning in to A Baby Boomer in Bosnia. I hope you enjoyed this 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, so you never miss a new release.
And, if you have a moment, please leave a comment, a quick rating or review, that would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.
Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.
Lately, Iāve been working on a fun side project that warms my heart. Iām trying to map out where youāre all tuning in from, this wonderfully scattered global community thatās come together through storytelling. If youād like to add your pin, just drop me a quick note at questions@anenglishmaninthebalkans.com. Iāll give you a shoutout in an upcoming episode and plant your digital flag.
Thanks for listening to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§! This post is public so feel free to share it.
š§ The Latest Episode from An Englishman in the Balkans Podcast
Tackling Boundaries with Rugby - One Womanās Mission in the Balkans ā¬ļø
Thatās a Wrap Then
Thank you for tuning in to A Baby Boomer in Bosnia. I hope you enjoyed this 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, so you never miss a new release.
And, if you have a moment, please leave a comment, a quick rating or review, that would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.
Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.
Thanks for listening to šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§! This episode is public so feel free to share it.
š Capturing the Sounds of My Surroundings
Launching this podcast and Re-Launching an Englishman in the Balkans, has got me thinking more deeply about sound and how much of my daily life is underscored by it. So Iāve started capturing these local soundscapes, beginning with the Dawn Chorus here in the village. Itās astonishing, really, this symphony of birdsong that greets the day. So Iāve bundled it into a free, high-quality downloadable .mp3 for you.
š§ The Latest Episode from An Englishman in the Balkans Podcast
š Lambs and Stereo Dreams
This morning, looking across at my neighbourās plum trees, I saw a small flock of sheep with very young lambs munching their way through the long grass surrounding the tress.Iām hoping that they will be staying for a little while so thats I can include them in a future village soundscape.I havenāt said much to Tamara yet, Iām now eyeing up some omnidirectional stereo gear, dreaming of immersive recordings that truly bring you here, headphones on, world off.
āļø Thatās a Wrap Then
Thank you for tuning in to A Baby Boomer in Bosnia. I hope you enjoyed this 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, so you never miss a new release.
And, if you have a moment, please leave a comment, a quick rating or review, that would mean the world. It really helps others discover the show.
Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.
A few of you suggested I share this on the Baby Boomer in Bosnia podcast, and so here it is, an April morning in Bosnia and Herzegovina, just as I experienced it. Iād love to know what you think. Drop me a comment, an email, or just sit with it quietly. Either way, I hope it brings a bit of calm and curiosity to your day.
Join My Storytelling Community
Iād love to know whoās listening and where youāre from. If you have a spare moment, send me an email with your name and location. Iād like to create a Google map marking all the places where my listeners are tuning in from, building a global storytelling community.
If thereās anything youād like to know about me or Bosnia, feel free to reach out. I also have a blog where I share additional insights about my life here.
Final Thoughts
Over time, this podcast might even take priority over my video content. The goal is to create an archive of my life for future generations, but in the process, I hope to entertain and inform you along the way.Thank you for listening. Stay safe, and as we say here in Bosnia, Vidimo se opet, weāll see each other again.
I posted a short snippet, recorded from my office window, as a note on Substack recently. To my surprise, it really resonated with readers and listeners. Thereās something calming about sharing the everyday sounds of rural life with others, especially those far away who might be craving a slice of peace.
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The Temptation of Dawn Recordings
My next goal? Early morning sound walks along the River Vrbas, as well as recording (documenting) the amazing daily dawn chorus.The only catch is the 4 a.m. wake-up call. Iāll be honest, Iām not much of a morning person, especially not that early. But I think itās worth it. Thereās a stillness at that time of day you just canāt replicate. Maybe Iāll give it a go next week.Youāll be the first to hear that recording as part of this podcast.
Sticking with Substack
Iāve also been thinking a lot about podcast hosting recently. I toyed with the idea of moving away from Substack, but in the end, I decided to stay put. Substack fits me well. Itās simple, itās cost-effective (which, letās face it, matters when youāre a pensioner), and it distributes easily to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and beyond. Plus, the interaction from listeners through comments and emails has been invaluable. So, Iām staying loyal to what works.
Celebrating Ramazanski Bajram
On a more cultural note, Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending Ramazanski Bajram with some of Tamaraās extended family.Bajram (there are two by the way), is a celebration marking the end of Ramadan here in Bosniaās Islamic community. Iād never experienced anything like it before. The hospitality, warmth, food, and togetherness, was extremely wonderful.I plan to share more about it soon.These are the moments that make life here feel so rich and layered.
Looking Ahead
Despite the recent flooding, we avoided any serious damage, and our village is ready for spring. Thereās a buzz in the air. People prepping their gardens, birds in full song, and the first proper warmth of the year just beginning to settle in.
So, until next time, thank you for tuning in. Feel free to drop a comment, especially if youāre listening on Spotify or one of the other platforms.
Tomorrow, a fellow podcaster is coming to visit from Germany, so tI will be definitely busy!
Bye for now, from this over-seventy Brit, happily embracing life in beautiful, blooming Bosnia!
Join My Storytelling Community
Iād love to know whoās listening and where youāre from. If you have a spare moment, send me an email with your name and location. Iād like to create a Google map marking all the places where my listeners are tuning in from, building a global storytelling community.
If thereās anything youād like to know about me or Bosnia, feel free to reach out. I also have a blog where I share additional insights about my life here.
Final Thoughts
Over time, this podcast might even take priority over my video content. The goal is to create an archive of my life for future generations, but in the process, I hope to entertain and inform you along the way.Thank you for listening. Stay safe, and as we say here in Bosnia, Vidimo se opet, weāll see each other again.
Thanks for reading šļø A Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcast š§! This post is public so feel free to share it.
The Hermit Within ?
There are moments when I wonder if Iāve become a hermit, and truth be told, I donāt mind if I have. I donāt feel lonely. Quite the opposite, really. Thereās something comforting about having fewer, deeper connections. I spend more time thinking, I have started to read more, I enjoy walking.
Thereās a beautiful Bosnian concept called Äejf. Itās hard to translate directly, but it speaks to the joy of doing something just because it brings pleasure. No deadline, no purpose beyond the moment. And that, in many ways, is how I try to live now.
Dreaming of the Camino
Even as Iāve grown more inward-focused, the dreamer in me hasnāt gone away. One dream that still tugs at me is walking the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage through Spain or Portugal, full of long roads and quiet towns. But at 72, and with travel being more expensive for me these days, Iāve accepted it might remain just that. A dream.
Still, the idea inspired me. Why not create my own Camino here, right in Bosnia? After all, the hills, forests, and river paths around me are beautiful in their own right. With the weather slowly turning, Iāve decided Iāll start a personal pilgrimage, 12 kilometres a day, starting from my front door.
Walking My Own Path
This āCamino-at-Homeā wonāt require flights, passports, or big budgets. It will require good shoes, a bit of discipline, and a lot of appreciation for the everyday. I plan to document these walks not with video, but with audio. Itās simpler, more intimate. Iāll tell stories, reflect on what I see and feel, and share them with you through my podcast. Just me, a microphone, and the road beneath my feet.
Natureās Quiet Promises
As I sit here, and looking out, I can almost hear the orchard preparing for spring. Soon, the blossoms will arrive. Cherries, plums, apples, pears. It certainly is one of the great joys of living here.Watching things grow slowly, in their own time, unbothered by the noise of the world.
Even when politics make headlines or global events stir uncertainty, the rhythms of rural Bosnia stay steady. The fruit trees donāt watch the news. The birds donāt care whoās in charge. Thereās a peace in that kind of perspective.
Finding Fellowship in Solitude
To those of you reading this, especially fellow Baby Boomers who might be navigating retirement, solitude, or a slower pace of life.I wonder: have you felt this pull towards quiet living? Towards embracing your own inner hermit? If so, youāre not alone. Iād love to hear your stories. Maybe youāve found your own version of Äejf, or maybe youāre still searching for it.
Sharing these reflections helps me feel connected, even across distance. So donāt hesitate to write, to share, to join me on this gentle path.
Join My Storytelling Community
Iād love to know whoās listening and where youāre from. If you have a spare moment, send me an email with your name and location. Iād like to create a Google map marking all the places where my listeners are tuning in from, building a global storytelling community.
If thereās anything youād like to know about me or Bosnia, feel free to reach out. I also have a blog where I share additional insights about my life here.
Final Thoughts
Over time, this podcast might even take priority over my video content. The goal is to create an archive of my life for future generations, but in the process, I hope to entertain and inform you along the way.Thank you for listening. Stay safe, and as we say here in Bosnia, Vidimo se opet, weāll see each other again.
But, of course, first impressions never ever tell the whole story. As I spent more time here, the surface began to peel away. What I found beneath was something far richer and warmer than Iād ever expected. A deeply rooted culture built on community, family, and a kind of slow living that has all but vanished in much of the West.
What struck me most was the sheer hospitality. It didnāt matter whether someone was a Serb, a Croat, a Bosniak, Jewish, or Roma, people really were welcoming in a way I hadnāt experienced before. Doors opened, coffee was poured, and conversations started, often with a smile and a plate of sliced meats and cheeses or homemade cake, maybe with a glass of Rakija too.Thereās a quiet generosity here, a cultural instinct to include rather than exclude.
Family at the Centre
One of the biggest lessons Iāve learned living here is about the role of family, and I donāt mean just parents and children. The idea of community extends far beyond the traditional family unit. Itās about cousins, neighbours, school friends, and even the people who live down the street and wave to you each morning, even if they really donāt know you.
Elders are revered. Age is respected. Parents retain an important voice in the lives of their grown-up children, often well into middle age.
That really surprised me.
Coming from the UK, I grew up in a society where independence is almost sacred.Weāre encouraged to move out young, to make our own way, to be self-sufficient.Here, itās different, and in many ways, itās super. Having said that I still feel frustrated with it at the same time.However, thereās comfort in knowing that youāre part of something bigger, something that will catch you if you stumble.
Holding Onto Home
Having said all the above, I havenāt abandoned all my Western habits. Each morning starts the same way it always has. With a strong cup of Yorkshire tea. Itās a small ritual, but it reminds me of home. And yes, I still crave a good Sunday roast now and then, and Iāll never say no to Marmite on toast (though thatās still met with confused looks around here). These small comforts from my past help me stay grounded while I navigate the joys and challenges of life in this corner of the world.
Finding Peace in the Pace
But if thereās one thing Iāve come to truly love, something I never anticipated, itās the pace of life.
Thereās a slowness here thatās not laziness but intention. Life unfolds gently. People take time. A single coffee can last an hour or more. Conversations arenāt rushed.
Iāve learned to savour things in a way I never did before. A walk through the fields, The wonderful Dawn Chorus from the many species of birds here in the garden in the early morning, the smell of woodsmoke curling out of chimneys in winter, these simple experiences carry more weight now.
Iāve slowed down. And in slowing down, Iāve seen more. Felt more. Connected more.
An Invitation to Discover
If youāve ever wondered what it might be like to live differently, to see life through a different lens, Iād wholeheartedly encourage you to explore this part of the world. Itās not just about the landscapes (though they are stunning) or the food (which is exceptional), but about the people and the pace. About being somewhere that challenges your assumptions and asks you to reconsider what really matters.
This journey has been as much about discovering others as it has been about rediscovering myself. And the longer I stay, the more I realise Iām still learningāstill unravelling the threads of what it means to be part of this rich and complex region.
Letās Keep the Conversation Going
So, if anything in this story resonates with you, if youāve had similar experiences or are curious about this part of the world, please do reach out. Iād love to hear your thoughts, your stories, your questions.
Until then, wherever you are, I hope you find moments to pause, connect, and appreciate the world around you. Thereās beauty in both the East and the West, and perhaps the greatest gift is learning to embrace the best of both.
Join My Storytelling Community
Iād love to know whoās listening and where youāre from. If you have a spare moment, send me an email with your name and location. Iād like to create a Google map marking all the places where my listeners are tuning in from, building a global storytelling community.
If thereās anything youād like to know about me or Bosnia, feel free to reach out. I also have a blog where I share additional insights about my life here.
Final Thoughts
Over time, this podcast might even take priority over my video content. The goal is to create an archive of my life for future generations, but in the process, I hope to entertain and inform you along the way.Thank you for listening. Stay safe, and as we say here in Bosnia, Vidimo se opet, weāll see each other again.
Update: I switched off the comments. It just really got too much
Thanks for reading A Baby Boomer in Bosnia! This post is public so feel free to share it.
A friend of mine, Christian, told me that I tend to focus on the rosier aspects of life here. Maybe heās right. Maybe, in my effort to showcase the positives, Iāve overlooked the complexities. I really need to address that.Thereās enough negativity online however. Iād rather offer a space where people can see a different side of the Balkans, one that isnāt defined by its past struggles but by its present charm but without sugar coating problems that arise.
Thatās why I find myself drawn back to podcasting, a medium where I feel most at home.
Thereās something intimate about audio storytelling, something that allows for nuance in a way that a viral YouTube comment section never could. Itās in podcasting that I can truly express what life here is like, in all its beauty and contradictions.
This is that Video
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Finding Solace in Local Life
This past weekend, Tamara and I attended the funeral of her favourite aunt. Funerals here are different from those I knew in the UK. They are deeply communal, drawing together extended families and entire friendship circles, regardless of religious backgrounds. Orthodox Christians, Catholics, and Muslims, everyone gathers and shares stories.
This blending of traditions is something Iāve always admired about life here. Living in Bosnia has introduced me to an intricate web of cultural and religious celebrations. We have been invited to Bajram (Eid) at the end of Ramadan by some of Tamaraās relatives.That will be a first for me.These experiences have enriched my understanding of community in ways I never expected when I first moved here.
Itās important to immerse as best you can when living in other cultures than your own
Join My Storytelling Community
Iād love to know whoās listening and where youāre from. If you have a spare moment, send me an email with your name and location. Iād like to create a Google map marking all the places where my listeners are tuning in from, building a global storytelling community.
If thereās anything youād like to know about me or Bosnia, feel free to reach out. I also have a blog where I share additional insights about my life here.
Final Thoughts
Over time, this podcast might even take priority over my video content. The goal is to create an archive of my life for future generations, but in the process, I hope to entertain and inform you along the way.Thank you for listening. Stay safe, and as we say here in Bosnia, Vidimo se opet, weāll see each other again.
