Although TFYR Macedonia has been in the news intermittently over the last couple of years for political reasons, foreigners should not be deterred from visiting this peaceful country. The internal troubles seem to have passed with the ruling family taking greater steps towards democracy to appease opposing activists. The country is one of the friendliest countries in the world with a level of hospitality second to none. This comes from a culture of generosity and respect that has developed over hundreds of decades.
History
The culture of the country is intricately linked to the Orthodox Church, founded by the Byzantine missionaries Saints Cyril and Methodius, as well as the various empires which occupied the land over two millennia. Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian, Greek, Ottoman, and Serbian traditions all play a part in the wealthy heritage of literature, arts, music, cuisine, and architecture in the land, forming a modern yet traditional culture totally different from the newly independent nation.
Traditions here are based on the country’s rural past, although almost forty percent of people now live in bigger towns and cities. Architecture plays a strong part, with urban single-story houses structured around a central courtyard, emphasizing the precedence of close family ties. Macedonians are extensively proud of their land, and their nationalistic fervor is especially seen in the works of writers and poets, many of which have been turned into other European languages and published through the Western world.
Culture
Today’s residents of the country speak about their country with much pride, so much so that any mention of the country in the foreign media causes a ton of enthusiasm. Everyone, from the young to the elderly, is responsive to their own traditions. Each house has a national flag and national wear. Everything in the region; cuisine, music, football is considered optimal. Even though Macedonians are politically involved citizens and are always aware of the policy pursued by all ministers, it is better when engaged in conversation with them, to leave discussing serious political issues aside!
The inhabitants of the country are famous for the love they display for their work, most especially their agricultural toil. Now, a large part of the country’s population does prefer the countryside for their permanent residence. Macedonians are welcoming and warm people. Locals usually behave freely, and also often pester international visitors with questions or proudly give to show them their home or city. A large percentage of the country’s population is made of men. Girls enjoy enormous fame and often have several admirers at any given moment.
The people are one of the most musical nations. Macedonian grooves are divided into pop music, folk-pop music, and children's pop music. Folk-pop tunes are very melodic and patriotic. Children's ethnic-pop music is a complete subculture with its idols and festivals. In Macedonia in general, people love different kinds of festivals. One of the most popular festivals is the Summer Festival in Ohrid, which attracts musicians from all over the world. The cultural characteristic of the Macedonian festivities is the national dance “teskoto”.
" Its a place to be" - Martin from Canada
