About Belgrade
Belgrade is the capital of the southeast European country of Serbia and has a population of about 1.6 million. It is located at the intersection of the Sava and Danube rivers and has been a strategic location for centuries and now and old-world culture gives way to new-world nightlife. Belgrade (“Beograd” in Serbian) means “white city” the name given for the white cliffs overlooking the Danube where the old city sits. Western tourism has steadily been on the rise for the past 20 years and English is the most common second language particularly in Belgrade. The University of Belgrade has a student city (Studenski grad) located in New Belgrade which is where program housing will be located. Student City is on the main road to Belgrade and its many surrounding communities.
Belgrade is by no means a 'pretty' capital, but its gritty exuberance makes it one of the most happening cities in Europe. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its chaotic past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces, and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics. Impressive cafes, restaurants and coffee shops are found alongside old-school dives by those visiting Knez Mihailova, a bustling pedestrian avenue which is also home to much of the oldest archeticture in the city. The riverside quarter has gone through a major resurrection, and is now a vibrant area for creativity of all kinds. Belgrade is also home to a vast array of museums for further exploring the country's history and culture.
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, is an international airport serving Belgrade, Serbia with daily international and domestic flights. Belgrade also has a central train station and two major bus stations and trains and buses run from all three to international and Serbian destinations. An extensive network of public transportation is available via buses and trams for travel throughout Belgrade and its suburbs. Buses are the main form of transportation used by university students in Belgrade. The program will take place at a number of program centers and institutions in and around Belgrade. All programs are accessible by buses that run throughout the entire day.
Housing and meals
University of Belgrade dormitories are standard, cost effective student dormitories, with 2-4 bed apartments located in the "student city" area of Belgrade. There are 11 student residencies in Belgrade in which the Temple group may be placed, including Studentski Grad, which, in addition to dormitories and a restaurant, has two libraries, a cinema and a theater building, conference halls and an open stage for summer concerts. Student residencies are vibrant places, where you can live, eat, study and meet new friends and colleagues.
Meals will be on your own most of the time, aside from both a program opening and closing group dinner. Food is relatively inexpensive in Belgrade, and even more so if you go to the open air markets selling fresh fruits and vegetables. Food at restaurants is also relatively inexpensive and dinner at a nicer restaurant can be had for about $30. Whereas, a pizza (available at most restaurants and quite good) will cost about $8.