Shtime: The Hidden Gem of Kosovo

• HelloTungjatjeta
  [toon-gyah-tyeh-tah]
• GoodbyeMirupafshim
  [meer-oo-pahf-sheem]
• YesPo
  [poh]
• NoJo
  [yoh]
• Please/You're welcomeJu lutem
  [yoo loo-tehm]
• Thank youFaleminderit
  [fah-leh-meen-deh-reet]
• Excuse me/SorryMë falni
  [muh fahl-nee]
• How are you?Si jeni?
  [see yeh-nee]
• Fine. And you?Mirë. Po ju?
  [meer poh yoo]
• Do you speak English?A flisni anglisht?
  [ah flees-nee ahng-leesht]
• I don't understandNuk kuptoj
  [nook koop-toy]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseDo të doja të shihja menunë, ju lutem
  [doh tuh doh-yah tuh shee-hyah meh-noo-nuh yoo loo-tehm]
• I don't eat meatNuk ha mish
  [nook hah meesh]
• Cheers!Gëzuar!
  [geh-zoo-ar]
• I would like to pay, pleaseDo të doja të paguaja, ju lutem
  [doh tuh doh-yah tuh pah-gwah-yah yoo loo-tehm]

• Help!Ndihmë!
  [ndee-muh]
• Go away!Shko larg!
  [shkoh lahr-guh]
• Call the Police!Thirrni policinë!
  [theer-nee poh-lee-tsee-nuh]
• Call a doctor!Thirrni një doktor!
  [theer-nee nyuh dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostJam i humbur
  [yahm ee hoom-boor]
• I'm illJam i sëmurë
  [yahm ee suh-moo-ruh]

• I'd like to buy...Do të doja të blija...
  [doh tuh doh-yah tuh bleeh-yah]
• I'm just lookingPo shikoj vetëm
  [poh shee-koy veh-tehm]
• How much is it?Sa kushton?
  [sah koosh-tohn]
• That's too expensiveKjo është shumë e shtrenjtë
  [kyoh ehs-teh shoo-muh eh shtrehn-jteh]
• Can you lower the price?A mund ta ulni çmimin?
  [ah moond tah ool-nee chmee-meen]

• What time is it?Sa është ora?
  [sah ehs-teh oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockËshtë një e ora
  [ehs-teh nyuh eh oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Njëmbëdhjetë
  [nyuhm-beh-dheh-teh]
• MorningMëngjes
  [muhn-gyes]
• AfternoonPasdite
  [pahs-dee-teh]
• EveningMbrëmje
  [mbruhm-yeh]
• YesterdayDje
  [djeh]
• TodaySot
  [soht]
• TomorrowNesër
  [neh-sahr]
• 1Një
  [nyuh]
• 2Dy
  [doo]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Katër
  [kaht-ehr]
• 5Pesë
  [peh-suh]
• 6Gjashtë
  [gyahsht]
• 7Shtatë
  [shtah-tuh]
• 8Tetë
  [teh-tuh]
• 9Nëntë
  [nuhn-tuh]
• 10Dhjetë
  [dh-yeh-tuh]

• Where's a/the...?Ku është një/të...?
  [koo ehs-teh nyuh/teh]
• What's the address?Cili është adresa?
  [chee-lee ehs-teh ah-dreh-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?A mund të ma tregoni (në hartë)?
  [ah moond tuh mah troh-goh-nee nuh hahr-tuh]
• When's the next (bus)?Kur është autobusi i ardhshëm?
  [koor ehs-teh ah-oh-boos-ee ee ahrd-shuhm]
• A ticket (to ....)Një biletë (për ....)
  [nyuh bee-leh-tuh puhr]

Shtime, a town in southern Kosovo, has roots that stretch back to ancient times. Archaeological discoveries in the region suggest that the area was inhabited during the Neolithic period. These early settlers were likely engaged in farming and crafting, laying the groundwork for future civilizations in the region.

During the medieval period, Shtime fell under the influence of the Byzantine Empire and later the Serbian Kingdom. The region was strategically important, serving as a crossroads for various trade routes. Medieval churches and fortresses from this era can still be found in the vicinity, reflecting the town's historical significance.

With the expansion of the Ottoman Empire into the Balkans in the late 14th century, Shtime came under Ottoman rule. This period lasted for several centuries and left a lasting impact on the town's architecture, culture, and administrative structure. Ottoman-style mosques and public baths, or hammams, are a testament to this era.

The 20th century brought significant changes and upheavals to Shtime. Following the Balkan Wars and World War I, the region became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later known as Yugoslavia. The tumultuous events of World War II and the subsequent socialist era left their mark on the town, leading to periods of both development and hardship.

The Kosovo War of the late 1990s was a pivotal moment in Shtime's history. The conflict resulted in significant destruction and displacement within the town. In the post-war period, Shtime, like much of Kosovo, has been involved in efforts to rebuild and recover. The town has seen investments in infrastructure and public services, aiming to restore normalcy and foster economic growth.

Today, Shtime is a blend of its rich historical past and contemporary developments. Local festivals, traditional music, and dance are integral parts of the town's cultural life. The preservation of historical sites alongside modern amenities makes Shtime an interesting destination for those looking to explore the diverse heritage of Kosovo.

Shtime is located in the central part of Kosovo, making it accessible from major cities like Pristina and Ferizaj. The nearest international airport is Pristina International Airport, around 40 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Shtime. Additionally, there are regular bus services from Pristina and Ferizaj to Shtime, making it easy to reach the town via public transport.

Shtime is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are available and affordable. Public buses connect Shtime to nearby towns and villages, providing an inexpensive way to explore the region. Renting a car is also an option for those who prefer more flexibility.

The official currency in Kosovo is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Shtime, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in larger cities like Pristina before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Shtime is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Shtime. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Shtime like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Kosovar goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town’s history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the nearby archaeological site of Ulpiana, which offers a glimpse into the ancient history of the region. For a unique experience, take a walk through the scenic landscapes surrounding Shtime, which are perfect for hiking and picnicking.