Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, lies in the southern part of the country and is home to a mix of Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats. Known as the “Jerusalem of Europe,” the city reflects a unique blend of cultures and religions, with architectural landmarks shaped by centuries of diverse influences.
Our guide is Patrik, a young and successful diplomat, who introduces us to the flavours and everyday life of the city. We visit his favourite ćevabdžinica, taste freshly baked somun bread, and enjoy a locally brewed beer.
Outside the city, we try fresh kajmak cheese on a farm and pick pomegranates in a nearby orchard. Back in Sarajevo, we sit down for traditional Bosnian coffee in Baščaršija and share a home cooked meal of Bosanski lonac.
To close, Patrik shows us a local initiative that provides food to those in need, highlighting the strong sense of community and compassion shaped by the country’s past.
Slovenia, located at the crossroads of major European cultural and trade routes, is largely mountainous, especially in its northern regions. The part of the Alpine massif that extends into Slovenian territory belongs to the Julian Alps. The Slovenian Alps owe their distinctive charm mainly to white limestone, which gives the treeless mountain peaks their unusually pale color and turns the rivers a striking azure blue. In this beautiful area, close to the Austrian border and only about 15 kilometers from Slovenia’s highest peak, Mount Triglav (2,864 m), Gabika has been living and working with her partner for eight years in the small mountain village of Dovje. Gabika is a mountain hut keeper, and her lodge is a typical Slovenian Alpine house more than a hundred years old. If you love mountains, prefer not to travel far, and enjoy tasting local specialties, Slovenia is definitely worth discovering.
Montenegro is a country in the western Balkans, at the southern edge of the Dinaric Alps. Its administrative capital is Podgorica, while the historic city of Cetinje remains an important cultural centre. After being part of Yugoslavia for much of the 20th century, Montenegro became fully independent in 2006.
The country is home to a diverse population, with Montenegrins making up less than half, alongside other ethnic groups that shape its unique identity. This mix is now joined by Igor from Slovakia, who moved to the coastal town of Bar last year after years abroad and plans to stay for good.
Igor is learning his tenth language and runs his own transport design studio. He also enjoys the warm climate, the sea, good food, and wine. Together, we taste local favourites like burek, lamb, honey, and regional wines, all set against Montenegro’s stunning natural landscape.
By population, Varna is the third-largest city in Bulgaria. Located in the northern part of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, this major port city could easily rival others in the country in terms of its size and importance. Varna lies on the Varna Bay, just a short distance from the famous Golden Sands resort. It is precisely this close connection to the sea that attracted Marián from Bratislava and Nansi, a Bulgarian from the inland region. Marián has studied and worked abroad since the age of eighteen. A former ice hockey player and trained lawyer, he speaks five languages, but his greatest passion today is running his own food truck business. He met Nansi while working on a river cruise ship, and their shared love eventually brought them to a new place for both of them – Varna. Varna is one of the most cosmopolitan cities along the coast. It is a popular holiday destination that warmly welcomes visitors, and this time, we were invited to experience it ourselves.
Zanzibar is an autonomous region off the eastern coast of Africa which, together with mainland Tanganyika, forms the state of Tanzania. It consists mainly of the islands of Unguja and Pemba and is home to more than one million inhabitants. Tanzania as a whole is considered one of the most peaceful countries in East Africa. Zanzibar has a typically island climate—tropical and humid—with reliable and relatively well-distributed rainfall compared to much of East Africa. Today, the islands are predominantly inhabited by the Swahili ethnic group, and local people are generally known for their friendly and relaxed nature. With its picture-perfect beaches, sunny weather, and rich culture, Zanzibar is a favorite destination for travelers from around the world. These very qualities are also what drew Janka from Trebišov and her partner Dávid to settle here permanently. Janka works remotely for Slovakia and is learning Swahili. Welcome to the island!
Burundi is a small landlocked country in East Africa, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika and bordering Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. With a population of around 12.5 million, it has two capitals, Gitega as the administrative centre and Bujumbura as the economic hub.
The population is mainly made up of Hutu, followed by Tutsi and the indigenous Twa. Much of the land is used for agriculture, which supports most livelihoods. Despite a difficult past marked by conflict, the country feels surprisingly green and full of life.
This first impression also captivated Zolo from Slovakia, who arrived ten years ago to work in humanitarian aid. Although he now lives back home with his family, Burundi remains close to his heart, and he continues to return to support projects across the region.
Nepal is an Asian country bordering India to the southeast and west, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north. Its natural boundary is formed by the Himalayas, home to eight of the world’s ten highest mountains, including Mount Everest. The Himalayas are the country’s greatest attraction for visitors, and tourism represents one of Nepal’s main sources of income. The official language is Nepali, a blend of Sanskrit and indigenous languages. The capital city, Kathmandu, lies at an altitude of 1,400 meters above sea level beneath the majestic Himalayas. The city itself is home to approximately 900,000 people, while nearly three million live in the greater metropolitan area. It was precisely these extraordinary people and breathtaking mountains that drew Dorota from Slovakia to Nepal. Dorota first came to Nepal in 2006, and it was love at first sight.
Meghalaya is a small state in northeastern India, bordering Assam to the north and Bangladesh to the south. Its capital, Shillong, is often called the “Scotland of the East,” known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and unique living root bridges.
The region is famous for heavy rainfall, with warm summers and cooler winters, and is home to a rich mix of cultures, ethnic groups, and religions. Shillong also serves as the gateway to exploring the natural beauty of Meghalaya.
Among its residents is Janka from Slovakia, an artist who came to India ten years ago to study at an art academy. She met her husband Alakesh, a musician from Assam, and together they work on creative and environmental projects, drawing inspiration from the region’s remarkable landscape.
Vieques is a small island in Puerto Rico, home to around 9,000 people, with an economy now largely built on tourism. In the past, it was known for sugarcane production and later served as a U.S. Navy base until 2003. After the military left, parts of the island remained affected by unexploded ordnance, and some areas are still being cleared today.
Despite this history, Vieques is famous for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, attracting visitors as well as those seeking a quieter island lifestyle.
One of them is Katarína from Slovakia, who moved to the United States over twenty years ago. After working as a teacher in New York, she settled on Vieques eleven years ago. Together with her husband Jimmy, a passionate chef, they run a restaurant where we discover the island through its flavours, from roasted pork and grilled lobster to fresh tropical fruit.
Uruguay is the second smallest country in South America, located between Argentina and Brazil. Although early settlers were Portuguese, the official language is Spanish. The country has a temperate climate, with mild, often windy winters and warm summers.
After centuries of colonization, Uruguay gained independence in 1828. Today, it is known for its Atlantic coastline, historic districts, strong cattle farming tradition, and deep passion for football. Its capital, Montevideo, is often ranked among the best cities in Latin America for quality of life, with a rich cultural scene.
This relaxed and progressive country attracted Ivan from Slovakia, who arrived four years ago after living in India, Spain, and Argentina. He now works in a non profit focused on technology and has built a new life and family in Uruguay.
Peru lies on the western coast of South America and is one of the continent’s largest countries. Our journey, however, takes us high into the Andes, to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire and one of the most important cities in the region.
Cusco is layered with history, from the early Killke culture to the Inca civilization, and later Spanish colonial influence built upon its foundations. Today, the city is home to around half a million people, and its narrow streets are filled with a deep sense of the past.
This unique atmosphere drew Gabriel from Košice ten years ago. He fell in love with Cusco at first sight, began working in gastronomy, and now runs a small pizzeria on the edge of the city. Passionate about honest cooking, he believes great dough takes time and care, much like the life he has built here.
India covers a large part of South Asia and is the second most populous country in the world. It is home to an incredibly diverse population, with thousands of ethnic groups, many religions, and hundreds of languages. The country is a federal republic made up of 28 states, with Goa being the smallest.
Once a Portuguese colony, Goa was part of the Portuguese Empire for centuries before becoming part of India in 1961. Today, it is one of the country’s most prosperous regions, known for its tropical climate, lush greenery, and relaxed coastal lifestyle.
With around 1.5 million residents, Goa attracts both visitors and those seeking a different way of life. Among them is Tomáš from Bratislava, who settled in India after years of travelling. He spends his summers in the mountains and winters by the sea in Goa, living a creative life connected to music and jewellery making.
Today we head to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s second largest city, set along the shores of Guanabara Bay near the Tropic of Capricorn. According to legend, early explorers believed the bay was the mouth of a river, giving the city its name, “January River.”
Founded by the Portuguese in 1565, Rio still reflects its colonial roots, while today it is a vibrant metropolis of over 13 million people. Known for its iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, stunning views, and world famous beaches, Rio is the country’s most visited destination. With its tropical climate, life here often revolves around the ocean, sun, and football.
This lively atmosphere drew Katarína from Slovakia, who moved here ten years ago. Now working as a tour guide, she introduces us to the real Rio, from the famous Rocinha favela to local flavours like caipirinha and Brazilian steak, and even a journey through nearby mangroves.
Nicaragua is a Central American country located in the heart of the isthmus, within the tropical zone. It is known for its large lakes, active volcanoes, and long stretches of coastline. Tourism plays a key role in the economy, with the colonial city of Granada among the most popular destinations.
Nicaraguan culture reflects a blend of Spanish and indigenous influences, something that deeply fascinated Veronika from Slovakia. After years in the corporate world, she chose to leave everything behind and start a new chapter here, seeking a slower pace of life and a deeper sense of balance.
Together, we explore this vibrant country, tasting traditional gallo pinto for breakfast, preparing fresh ceviche from local seafood, and grinding cacao beans to make authentic cocoa.
Today we head to San Francisco, one of California’s most iconic cities, located along the San Francisco Bay. The wider metropolitan area is home to nearly 10 million people.
Founded by the Spanish in 1776, the city became part of the United States in 1846. In the early 20th century, San Francisco was nearly destroyed by a devastating earthquake and the fires that followed, but it was rebuilt and transformed.
Today, it stands as one of the most beautiful and recognizable cities in the country, known for its stunning views, unique character, and rich history.
French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France in Oceania, spread across a vast area where its most distant islands lie more than 2,000 kilometres apart. Made up of small islands and atolls, it is home to nearly 280,000 people, with most living on Tahiti, where the capital Papeete is located.
Tahiti is a volcanic island and the highest point in French Polynesia. Despite being relatively populated, its interior still offers untouched and uninhabited landscapes. The islands are a popular destination for travellers seeking natural beauty and unique culture.
Among them is Robo from Slovakia, who first arrived here with his wife on their honeymoon and chose to stay. Together, we explore the island’s flavours and traditions, from local dishes to vanilla and pineapple farming, and prepare the famous Tahitian poisson cru right on a boat.
Today we travel to the heart of the Pacific Ocean, to the Tuamotu Archipelago in French Polynesia. This vast region spans an area comparable to Western Europe, yet its total landmass is just 885 square kilometres, made up of coral atolls. Our destination is Rangiroa, one of the largest atolls in the world.
Rangiroa consists of over 400 small islets, known as motu, and is home to nearly 3,000 people. It is connected to Tahiti by air, while boats can enter its lagoon only through two narrow passes. With supplies arriving by sea just once a week, prices here are noticeably higher, but the island’s beauty more than makes up for it.
This peaceful place also became home to Kristína from Slovakia, who moved here with her husband five years ago. A photographer by profession, she now lives her dream surrounded by the ocean, capturing a world she has always been drawn to.
Our journey takes us to Maui, the second largest island in Hawaii. The western part is shaped by the West Maui Mountains, while the east is dominated by the dormant volcano Haleakalā, rising over 3,000 metres above sea level.
Maui’s tropical climate is surprisingly diverse, ranging from dry, savanna like landscapes to lush rainforests and even cooler conditions at higher elevations. The island is also famous for surfing, with Pacific waves drawing visitors from around the world.
One of them is Eva from Slovakia, who arrived ten years ago in search of spirituality and found a new home and family here. Today, she organizes weddings and events, fully embracing island life.
We begin in Lahaina, exploring local markets, tasting fresh Hawaiian poke, visiting a dragon fruit farm, and learning to make traditional flower leis.
Palau is a Pacific island nation in Micronesia, made up of around 340 islands and home to about 20,000 people. Settled thousands of years ago by migrants from Southeast Asia, it is known today for its strong focus on environmental protection, even as tourism remains a key part of its economy.
After World War II, Palau came under U.S. administration and later entered a compact of free association. English and Palauan are the official languages, and the U.S. dollar is used throughout the country.
On the island of Koror, we meet Danka from Slovakia, who has lived here for sixteen years and teaches at the local university. She also co founded a nonprofit supporting children’s education and development. Together, we explore island life, learn about marine ecosystems, and try local dishes, from taro leaf soup to the island’s more unusual culinary traditions.
Today we travel to Australia, the only country that is also a continent, located in the Southern Hemisphere. Our destination is the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, a coastal region known for its relaxed lifestyle and natural beauty.
Home to nearly 400,000 people, the area enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with warm temperatures even during the Australian winter. Its greatest attraction is the coastline, where locals spend much of their free time on stunning beaches.
The population is diverse, with European roots alongside communities from Asia, the Americas, and Indigenous Australians. Among them is Jakub from Slovakia, who moved here seven years ago after living in the United Kingdom. He has built a family and now works in construction, proudly calling this place home.
Together, we visit a local fish market, try a unique donut coffee, learn about wagyu farming, and taste classic Australian meat pies.
Split is the main city of the Split Dalmatia region, known for its vibrant tourism, coastline, mountains, vineyards, and olive groves. With an airport, a major port, and a rich history, it is considered one of the oldest cities in the world and a key cultural centre of Dalmatia.
Our guide is Jaro, a 68 year old who proudly calls himself a Dalmatian. Originally from Slovakia, he studied civil engineering in Žilina and spent years working abroad before settling in Split nine years ago. Together with his wife Lydka, he has embraced life by the sea.
Through their eyes, we explore Dalmatian cuisine, centred around fresh fish, seafood, and lamb. We also try local specialties such as frogs and prepare traditional dishes like soparnik and burek.
Rhineland-Palatinate is one of Germany’s 16 federal states, established in 1946 after World War II from parts of former regions. Known for its rich history and cuisine influenced by nearby France, it is a landscape of rolling hills, vineyards, and castles that date back to Roman times. It is also Germany’s most forested state, playing an important role in the country’s economy.
Today we visit the district of Bad Kreuznach, a spa town known for its medieval bridge, Alte Nahebrücke, one of the few in the world lined with houses. Set in the renowned Nahe wine region, the town blends history with a strong winemaking tradition.
Here we meet Ivana from Slovakia, who moved to Germany as an au pair and stayed after finding love. Now living in nearby Roxheim, she shares her local world with us. Together, we taste regional meat specialties, visit a wine festival, and enjoy a vineyard picnic with local wine and freshly baked onion tart.
Madeira is an archipelago and an autonomous region of Portugal, made up of four islands, though only two are inhabited. Located about 1,000 kilometres from mainland Europe in the Atlantic Ocean, it is known for its dramatic volcanic landscape, lush forests, and vibrant gardens. The capital, Funchal, is home to nearly half of the region’s population.
Often called the island of flowers, Madeira offers crystal clear ocean views, world renowned wine, and traditional craftsmanship. This unique setting also attracted Nikol from Slovakia, who moved here with her family three years ago. She now works in wedding planning and real estate, while also helping to build a travel business.
Together, we taste local specialties like lapas, ride one of the steepest cable cars in Portugal, try the traditional drink poncha, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of a local festival.
Brittany, in northwestern France, is a peninsula stretching from the Loire River to Mont-Saint-Michel Bay. With rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming towns, it feels distinct from the rest of the country. Today, it is one of France’s most livable regions, with a strong economy, low unemployment, and a high quality of life. In the town of Dol-de-Bretagne lives Igor from Slovakia, who moved here 13 years ago with his French wife Cécile. She is a naval officer, while Igor works as a health and safety director. We start at the local market, then learn to make traditional galettes, taste apple cider, and enjoy some of the finest oysters in Europe.
Cape Verde is an island nation in the central Atlantic Ocean, made up of ten volcanic islands about 600 kilometres off the coast of West Africa. Together with the Azores, Canary Islands, and Madeira, it forms part of the Macaronesia region.
Boa Vista, the third largest and easternmost island, is known for its desert like landscape, long sandy beaches, sea turtles, and traditional music.
This island paradise is also home to Janka from Slovakia, who moved here six years ago. Today, she works as a tour guide and is part of a large local family.
With her and her husband, we explore local cuisine based on fish, goat milk, and legumes, discover the island’s culture, and visit a protected turtle nesting site, helping give hatchlings a better chance to survive.