In my humble opinion the best, most awesome thing about Belgrade is its little beach island, Ada Ciganlija. Neither a real lake or a real beach, Ada is this urban inlet in the middle of the city that was dug out and built as a small resort type strip in the banks of the Sava River. Each summer, thousands of Serbian and European (and now American) tourists, sun bathe along the shores of Ada until they turn six degrees darker. Having grown up in a "real" island, Puerto Rico, I was a bit skeptical at first, but whoever is behind the urban planning in Ada is sheer genius. First of all, unlike the beaches in PR, Ada's shores are chock-full of stuff to do. There are regular bars, clubs, and restaurants; FLOATING bars, clubs and restaurants; bike paths, running tracks, paddle boats, canoes, real rowing boats (like crew), a water ski area, AND a bungee jump. For the less adventurous/athletic types, you can just grab a beach chair or even a bed and just lounge around; you can rent a towel and an umbrella and order drinks or food. And of course, in true Serbia fashion, you can buy just ONE drink and stay ALL day. This is both good and bad. It's nice if you are the one doing it, but it sucks when the best places are full and you want to grab a seat. The "lake" is pretty clean, the water is clear and warm. The only thing is that it's super rocky (pebbles rather) and kind of muddy. But since it's fresh water, you don't get that gross salty feeling or the stinging in your eyes. I am a big fan.
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| The Ada beach |
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| For the sun phobes like me |
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| Hanging out in the water |
Also, in the true European spirit, 99% of the men wear speedos. Unfortunately, you can't see that in the picture. The one guy standing up, is in fact Canadian; hence his trunks. All women wear bikinis, given most Serbian women are pretty hot and thin, but I have definitely seen a couple who should probably cover up. I am the only person in the entire beach with a tankini. I don't think tankinis exist here, but I will not wear a real bikini cause I don't think the Serbs are ready for my jelly. Anyway, the plan is to hang out here as often as possible before the harsh winter weather comes back.
3 comments:
Hello there! I'm enjoying your BGD stories very much... I can totally relate :-). My husband is Serbian and we are spending the summer here with our kids (8 & 6). If you would like to want to join us, we often spend the day in Ada... mostly at Na Kraj Sveta or Sunset. I'm easy to spot as I wear the only other tankini in Ada ;-).
I love ADA! And I love that the commenter above also wears a tankini! Hope you are spending all day there now that you have less work hours.
Hola amiga! Yes, Ada might be nice, but did you find an adorable child you'd be ready and willing to adopt like that kid at Jobos? I want one of those beds to lounge on.
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