Meet Jelena Popović
Dobar dan! I'm Jelena Popović, a librarian by day and a passionate traveler by night (and weekends!). Originally from the beautiful Montenegro, I now call Heidelberg, Germany, home. My love for stories extends beyond the pages of books to the vibrant cultures and histories of the places I visit. Through this blog, I share my travel experiences, focusing on cultural immersion, historical insights, and the joy of connecting with people from all walks of life. Join me as I explore the Balkans and beyond, one captivating story at a time.
- Warm
- Knowledgeable
- Curious
- Patient
- Organized
- Passionate
- Empathetic
- Samarkand, Uzbekistan
- Ohrid, North Macedonia
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Moscow to Vladivostok, Russia
- Theth, Albania
Latest Travel Diaries by Jelena Popović
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10 Day TripExploring the Ancient Ruins of Pompeii with FamilyJoin us on a 10-day journey to Pompeii, uncovering its ancient stories and savoring local charm, while staying at a cozy inn with family.
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12 Day TripSolo Journey Through Montenegro's Durmitor National ParkExplore the breathtaking landscapes of Durmitor National Park on a solo journey reconnecting with Montenegrin roots and sharing its wonders.
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8 Day TripSolo Sojourn to the Mystical Ruins of DelphiDiscover the ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes of Delphi on a solo adventure, exploring its rich history and cultural heritage.
More about Jelena Popović
Born and raised in the small Montenegrin town of Kolašin, Jelena always had a passion for stories and history. After completing her studies in Belgrade, she moved to Heidelberg, Germany, where she met her husband, Klaus. While her primary focus is her work at the library, she cherishes her Montenegrin heritage and loves sharing her knowledge and experiences through her travel blog on Evendo. She sees it as a way to connect with others who appreciate the beauty and culture of the Balkans and beyond.
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55
Age
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Female
Gender
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Librarian specializing in Balkan history and folklore at the Heidelberg University Library.
Occupation
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Montenegro
Birth Country
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Kolašin
Birth City
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Germany
Current Country
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Heidelberg
Current City
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Married
Marital Status
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Klaus Schmidt, Male, 62
Spouse
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Children
- None
Interest
- Balkan history and folklore
- Genealogy
- Comparative literature
- European cinema
- Sustainable living
Hobbies
- Traditional Montenegrin cooking
- Hiking in the Odenwald forest
- Attending local cultural events in Heidelberg
- Gardening (growing Balkan herbs and vegetables)
- Learning new languages (currently brushing up on her Italian)
Recent Articles & Tips by Jelena Popović
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Travel AdviceLanguage as a Gateway: Tips for Learning a New Language While TravelingExplore the benefits of learning a new language during your travels and how it can enhance your experience.
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Travel AdviceThe Magic of Folklore: Discovering Cultural Myths on Your TravelsUncover the rich tapestry of folklore and myths that can be explored through travel.
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Travel AdviceSustainable Travel: Reducing Your FootprintTips and strategies for traveling sustainably without sacrificing comfort or adventure.
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Travel AdviceCulinary Adventures: Cooking Like a LocalLearn how engaging with local cuisine can enhance your travel experience and provide a taste of the culture.
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Travel AdviceGenealogy Journeys: Tracing Your Roots Through TravelDiscover how travel can be a powerful tool for exploring your family's history and heritage.
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Travel AdviceThe Art of Slow Travel: Embracing the JourneyExplore the benefits of slow travel and how it allows for a deeper connection with local cultures and environments.
Travel Essentials
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A well-loved journal and pen
- My trusty camera
- A universal adapter
- A silk scarf (for warmth or modesty)
Travel Tips
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Learn a few basic phrases in the local language. It shows respect and opens doors.
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Venture beyond the tourist hotspots to find authentic experiences.
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Embrace slow travel. Take your time to soak in the culture and connect with locals.
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Be open to unexpected detours. Some of the best travel moments are unplanned.
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Always pack a good book. It's a great way to unwind and immerse yourself in a new world.
Recent Memories from Jelena Popović
This Explorers Travel Highlights
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My Travel Highlight
Exploring the backstreets of Sarajevo with a local historian and discovering the hidden stories behind the city's resilient spirit.
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Favourite Destination
Montenegro, my homeland. It’s where my roots are, and returning always fills me with a sense of belonging and peace. The dramatic mountains, the sparkling Adriatic coast, and the warmth of the people make it endlessly captivating.
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Best Hotel
A small, family-run guesthouse in Tuscany, Italy, where Klaus and I were welcomed like family and enjoyed the most delicious home-cooked meals.
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My Adventurous Destination
Rafting through the Tara River Canyon in Montenegro. The adrenaline rush combined with the breathtaking scenery was exhilarating!
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My Food Destination
Istanbul, Turkey. The blend of European and Asian flavors is simply divine. From the street food to the high-end restaurants, every meal is an adventure.