Before you travel to North Macedonia you should check the Entry Requirements:
Currency:
The currency in North Macedonia is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). While some places might accept euros or other major currencies, it’s best to have some Denars on hand for small purchases or in case you visit places that don’t accept foreign currency. Only exchange money in official places like banks, where you will get the best exchange rate.
Language:
The official language is Macedonian, but many people, especially in tourist areas, speak English. Learning some basic Macedonian phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
Weather:
North Macedonia experiences four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot, especially in the valleys, while winters can be cold and snowy in the mountainous regions.
The best time to visit North Macedonia depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. The country experiences a diverse climate, with four distinct seasons. Here are some considerations for each season:
Spring (March to May):
Spring is a lovely time to visit North Macedonia when the weather starts to warm up, and nature comes to life. The countryside is adorned with colorful blossoms, and the landscapes are lush and green. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the numerous national parks and historic sites.
Summer (June to August):
Summer can get quite hot in North Macedonia, especially in the lowland areas like the capital, Skopje. However, if you enjoy warm weather and want to experience lively festivals, outdoor concerts, and open-air markets, summer might be the best time for you. Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa are popular destinations during this season, offering opportunities for swimming and other water activities.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn brings cooler temperatures, making it another excellent time to visit North Macedonia. The countryside transforms into a colorful spectacle with the changing leaves, creating a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing and hiking. Additionally, autumn is the grape harvest season, and you can enjoy local wine festivals.
Winter (December to February):
Winter can be quite cold, especially in the mountainous regions where snowfall occurs. If you enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, this is the ideal time to visit. Mavrovo and Popova Shapka are popular ski resorts. Winter also offers a unique charm to the cities with festive decorations and Christmas markets.
Ultimately, the best time to visit North Macedonia depends on your interests and what activities you’d like to engage in. Each season has its own appeal, and the country offers a rich cultural experience year-round. Consider your preferences for weather and activities to plan the most enjoyable trip.
Hopefully, you will have time to take a look around North Macedonia. Here are some suggestions for Must-Visit Places:
Skopje, the capital city and the largest city in North Macedonia, is known for its eclectic mix of modern and historical architecture. Visit the pedestrian zone in the city center for a coffee, stroll through the Old Bazaar and enjoy a traditional lunch, make it to the top of Mount Vodno for a gondola ride and a nice view over Lake Matka.
Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its stunning lake and historical landmarks.
Bitola, another beautiful city, has a rich Ottoman history and impressive architecture.
The Matka Canyon and Mavrovo National Park offer incredible natural beauty.
If you are a history buff you will most definitely enjoy it there!
Culture and Etiquette:
North Macedonians are generally warm and hospitable people. When visiting someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants (around 10-15% of the bill), and it’s polite to round up taxi fares.
Transportation – how to get around:
Public transportation in major cities like Skopje and Ohrid is accessible and affordable. Taxis are also readily available, but make sure the driver uses a meter or negotiate the price before getting in. If you plan to explore the countryside, renting a car might be a good option.
Cuisine:
North Macedonian cuisine is a delightful mix of Balkan and Mediterranean flavors. Don’t miss trying dishes like ajvar (red pepper relish), shopska salad, kebapi (grilled meat), and the delicious baklava for dessert.
Safety:
North Macedonia is generally a safe country for travelers. However, as with any destination, it’s essential to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and take basic precautions to safeguard your belongings.
Internet and Communication – how to stay connected:
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes in major cities. You can also purchase a local SIM card or download the Red Bull MOBILE Data App to have access to mobile data throughout your trip.
Remember to check for any updated travel advisories or specific guidelines related to health and safety before your journey.
Now that you are planning on traveling overseas and want to stay in touch with your family and friends, or need to stay connected on your business trip, how do you avoid excessive roaming fees? Ever considered an eSIM? Download the Red Bull MOBILE Data App to avoid expensive fees.
eSIMs also allow for more flexible mobile plans, as users can switch carriers or plans without needing to physically swap SIM cards. This can be especially useful for international travel, as users can switch to a local carrier or data plan without needing to purchase a new SIM card.
How do you get an eSIM?
With an eSIM you do not need to physically swap out SIM cards to stay connected to the internet and avoid expensive roaming charges.
Simply download the Red Bull MOBILE Data app, choose your data plan for your destination, and follow the instructions on how to activate the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM data plan. Your device will prompt you to set up your eSIM, which typically involves selecting a mobile plan and confirming your activation. Once your account is activated you are ready to connect to the world without any basic or roaming fees. You will be able to email, chat, set up video conferencing and use your social media accounts. Connecting with your family and friends around the globe is instantaneous.
You don’t have to switch out SIM cards, just switch to your eSIM plan for data on your device while traveling and when you get back you just switch to your regular SIM card.
Are there more advantages to an eSIM other than traveling around the globe?
One of the many advantages of an eSIMs is that it can support multiple profiles, allowing you to use different carriers or plans on the same device. This can be useful if you travel frequently or have different needs for different situations. You could use it to separate your business account
from your personal account for emails and phone calls by switching between those profiles. Please note, you can only use one profile at a time.
Another advantage of an eSIM is that you can access the Red Bull MOBILE Data app wherever you are. So if your travel plans change or you decide to go to a new country simply log in to the app, and choose a new destination and bundle, and you are all set!
Do all devices support eSIM?
Not all devices support eSIM, so you should check if your device is compatible with eSIM technology. You can usually find this information in the device specifications under Settings.
iOS devices: Go to Settings > Mobile Data or Cellular Data, if you have the Add Mobile Plan or Add Data Plan option, your iPhone supports eSIM.
Supported devices include iPhone XS, XR and newer models
Android devices: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. If you have the “Add mobile plan” option, your smartphone supports eSIM.
The majority of newer Android smartphones are supported including the Samsung Galaxy S20 or newer models, Google Pixel 3 or newer models, Huawei P40 and many more.
It’s worth noting that the exact steps to use an eSIM may vary slightly depending on your device and mobile carrier. So, it’s always a good idea to refer to the specific instructions provided by your carrier and device manufacturer.
Here are some tips on how to avoid expensive fees with eSIM for traveling:
Turn off automatic app updates: To avoid unnecessary data usage, turn off automatic app updates on your phone. This can be done in your phone’s settings.
Turn off background data: Many apps use data in the background even when you’re not actively using them. To avoid unnecessary data usage, turn off background data for apps that you don’t need.
Use a data monitoring app: Download a data monitoring app that can help you keep track of your data usage. This can help you avoid exceeding your data plan and incurring additional fees.
By following these tips, you can avoid expensive fees with eSIM for traveling and stay connected without breaking the bank.
Enjoy your time in North Macedonia and have a wonderful trip!
