The Basics

Time

Local time is GMT +1.

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts (50Hz). European round pin attachment plugs and Schuko plugs are in use.

Language

Macedonian is the official language. English, French and German are spoken quite widely.

Travel Health

There are no specific health risks for Macedonia and travel is usually problem free from a health perspective. Hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended and it is also advised that you be up to date with your vaccinations for MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and tetanus-diphtheria. A typhoid vaccination may be recommended for those travellers who will be eating and drinking outside of major restaurants and hotels. On a related note, avoid drinking tap water unless it has been boiled or filtered. A rabies vaccination may be recommended for those travellers who may have contact with wild animals while in Macedonia.

Medical and health care facilities are good in Skopje and other large cities in Macedonia and pharmacies are generally well supplied. However, comprehensive medical insurance, with provision for emergency repatriation, is still strongly advised. It is also almost always better to take any prescription medication you may need with you when you travel, along with a signed and dated letter from your doctor detailing what the medication is and why you need it.

Tipping

Tips of 10 percent of the bill are expected by waiters unless a service charge has already been added to the bill, but restauarants are generally the only service where tips are expected.

Safety Information

Macedonia is a relatively safe country to visit. Petty crime and pick pocketing can occur; be especially cautious at the large market in Skopje.

Local Customs

Avoid discussing Macedonian politics: touchy subjects include relations with its neighbours and the Balkan war.

Communications

The international dialling code for Macedonia is +389. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Internet access is widespread and there are internet cafes all over the country. The central post office in Skopje is open from 7am to 7.30pm Monday to Saturday and 8am to 2pm on Sundays. There is good cell phone coverage and roaming agreements are in place with major international operators.

Duty Free

Visitors to Macedonia may import one carton of cigarettes, one bottle of hard liquor. There is still no limit on wine and beer.