Health

Tap water is safe to drink in most regions. Caution should be taken in the regions around Ibar River (for example in Kraljevo) and in some towns in the NW of the country (such as Zrenjanin and Kikinda). Beware that water from some fountains is not safe for consumption; these are marked with a warning sign saying Voda nije za piće. Bottled water is available in larger markets and is advised for people known to experience stomach problems. Milk is pasteurized and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, fish and vegetables are considered safe to eat.

Hygiene standards are quite high in most of the hotels and restaurants, apart from the cheapest ones. There are a number of pharmacies in all towns.

The health system in all parts of the state union of Serbia suffers from widespread shortage of many medicines and medical supplies. Payment in cash is normally required for treatment and one is advised to be covered by comprehensive travel insurance in case the need for medical evacuation arises.

Hepatitis A may occur. Tularaemia has been reported lately in Kosovo. Rabies is present and for those at high risk vaccination before arrival should be considered. Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is endemic to Kosovo. CCHF is transmitted by tic bite or through contact with infected blood. Anyone who has visited Kosovo and is suffering from a fever – headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, red rash, bleeding on the roof of the mouth – or any other unexplained symptoms should seek medical advice immediately.

Security

Serbia is a remarkably safe place to be. There are always people out in the streets, even late at night or in the winter, and one will feel comfortable walking anywhere almost anytime, although it would be wise to avoid secluded places at night.

Women travelling on their own will be completely safe in Serbia, as safe as any other travellers. They are unlikely to feel physically threatened, though they may have to fend off unwanted attention in bars and discotheques and other similar places, though very rarely on the streets.

There are no laws against homosexual activity but a public display of affection is highly inadvisable.

Some spots frequented by tourists are known for pickpockets so it is advisable to carry only as much money as required for the day on your person. Leave other money, airplane tickets, safe deposit box at the reception desk of your hotel. Luxury vehicles might be a target for thieves and should be left only in guarded parking lots or at least in well-lit places. Never leave bags and similar items in visible places in your vehicle.

Begging is not widespread, though while sitting in open-air cafés or strolling down pedestrian zones, beggars may approach and can be irritating. Nevertheless, they are not as aggressive as their ‘colleagues’ in most other countries.

Do not photograph the police or military-guarded buildings nor those destroyed or damaged in the NATO air raids.

In Serbia (including Kosovo), carry your passport at all times. We therefore advise that you keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place. This will help you to obtain a replacement, in case it is lost or stolen.

It is essential, when in Serbia (excluding Kosovo), that you register with the police within 24 hours of your arrival, unless staying in a hotel where you will be registered automatically when checking-in. For the registration, go to the nearest police station (in Belgrade the station in Majke Jevrosime St.) accompanied by your host who should bring the document stating his ownership of the premises of your stay. Since all of this is fairly complicated and the police rarely check the registration papers, you might risk not putting yourself through the trouble (though you are highly advised to register).

It’s better not to argue politics, as many people tend to express their political attitudes mingled with emotions. Avoid demonstrations and violently looking public gatherings.

There are a number of illegal substances present on the streets of Serbian towns. Possession (no matter how small the amount) or trafficking of drugs is met with strict penalties including prison sentences.

Stray dogs are quite a problem in large towns so one should avoid strolling in secluded places, especially alone. If you see a group of dogs act normally as attacks on people are rare.