Bosnia-Herzegovina vs Wales - Football Supporters` Federation

Football Supporters’ Federation Wales
FSF Cymru Issue 40
European Championship Qualifier
Bosnia-Herzegovina vs Wales
Saturday, October 10th 2015, kickoff 20:45
Bilino polje stadium, Zenica
Information for the fans by the fans. FSF Help line number is
+447905 861 848
FSF Cymru Help line number is + 447905 861848
Welcome to Issue 40 of our FSF Cymru information booklet for Welsh fans. This is our ninth and penultimate fixture in
this historic qualifying campaign on the road to our first major tournament finals since 1958.
We find ourselves back here in the Balkans and a visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, a very strong football national team.
We played out a difficult drawn game in Cardiff a year ago to share the points and a similar result tonight would suit
Wales. An excellent return of 4 points from our September fixtures would see us qualify if we remain unbeaten this
evening. Top Tip – Keep a copy of your passport and a list of important phone numbers in a place that can be easily
accessed if needed. A good idea would be to scan your passport and e mail it to yourself.
TOGETHER STRONGER
Bosnia and Herzegovina make up a triangular-shaped republic on the Balkan Peninsula. It is ranked 128th biggest
country in area measuring almost 20,000 square miles. The Bosnian region in the north is mmountainous and
covered with thick forests. The Herzegovina region in the south is largely rugged, flat farmland. It has a narrow
coastline without natural harbours stretching 13 milies along the Adriatic Sea.
Sarajevo, the capital city, is where most Welsh fans will be based and this was once the home of the winter
Olympics in 1984 before the city was besieged in the 1990’s and on the edge of annihilation. Today, its restored
historic centre is full of welcoming cafes and good-value accommodation, with the bullet holes largely plastered
over on the city's curious architectural mixture of Ottoman and Austro Hungarian buildings. The country as a
whole has a population of 3,871,000 with its biggest cities including Sarajevo 370,000, Banja Luka 151,000,
Tuzia 80,500 and Zenica where the match will be played having a population of almost 74,000.
FSF Cymru Fan Embassy service during this trip will be
based at the Hotel Astra Garni, (opposite)Situated just
200 yards from the Presidency Building in central
Sarajevo, Kundurdžiluk 2, Sarajevo 71000.
We will also be visible and available in bars and cafes
throughout the city and available 24 hours on our hotline
number and at the stadium on match aday+44 7905
861848
FSF CYMRU - by Wales fans, for Wales fans - an independent organisation, committed to helping Wales supporters.
FSF Cymru are proud members of FSE (Football Supporters Europe)
MISSION STATEMENT
To help and support Wales fans who travel away. Our role is to provide accurate and objective information, including
a Risk Assessment: we convey what other agencies, such as police forces, government departments, and football
authorities are recommending: we publish a comprehensive guide which is distributed free of charge to all travelling
supporters: we operate and publicise a 24 hour Hotline for fans in difficulties: we arrange a Football embassy
operation, at venues abroad, where we can offer advice, guidance and support as necessary.
To work with the Football Association of Wales in all aspects affecting the fans, to ensure that the supporters voice is
heard.
A continuous, running dialogue is held with Mr Mark Evans, Head, International Affairs, we take supporters
complaints, views to the FAW for discussion
“To take every possible action to eradicate any inter club rivalry when fans are following the Welsh national team”
Before you travel anywhere in the world outside of the United Kingdom please visit the
Know before you go website
https://www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo
Information about the Bilino polje Stadium, Zenica
The main Wales end of 600 is in the north stand, in the west corner.
The second section of 125 is next to our players complimentary tickets right at the north end of the west
stand, so the two blocks are next to each other in effect.
Information about the Bilino polje Stadium, Zenica cont.
The photographs above show the areas where the Welsh fans will have access to outside the stadium and the
location of the coaches.
Bilino polje Stadium is the home football stadium of Bosnian Premier League football club Čelik from Zenica.
At the same time, it is a stadium used for matches of the national football team of Bosnia and Herzegovina. FC
Čelik was founded in 1945 and throughout the years the club had changed four different stadiums until finally
settling at their current ground which was built in 1972. It was officially opened on 4 October 1972 for the second
leg of the 1972 Mitropa Cup final against Fiorentina which Čelik won 1–0 to claim their second title in a row
(Mitropa Cup, officially known as La Coupe de l'Europe Centrale, was one of the first international major European
football cups for clubs; discontinued after 1992). The attendance record of 35,000 still stands today due to the
introduction of seats. Today, the official capacity today is 13,632 but slightly lower for international matches. Fans
of Čelik attend the games of Bosnia and Herzegovina at the South tribune while fans in the North tribune are BH
Fanaticos, the main organized group of Bosnia and Herzegovina fans One of two stadium’s used by the Bosnia and
Herzegovina national team, Stadion Bilino Polje is smaller than Asim Ferhatovic however it is much preferred.
Not only is it rectangular unlike Asim Ferhatovic Olympic Stadium which allows for better views, the compact
nature allows for better acoustics and a more lively atmosphere for the home side.
Constructed over a period of 8 months, it was completed in time to host to host matches of the Mitropa Cup which
features clubs from across Europe. NK Čelik defeated ACF Fiorentina in order to retain their title, and christen
their new ground with an impressive victory.
Built very much in the English model, the rectangular arrangement of stands is still somewhat uncommon on
Bosnia and Herzegovina to this day. Stadion Bilino Polje is arguably the most celebrated stadium in the country
despite not being located in the capital city or boasting the largest capacity.
The first international match of Bosnia was played against Albania in 1996, and for the next 10 years Bilino Polke
Stadium became known as a fortress. Across 15 matches, Bosnia’s national team was undefeated until a Euro
2008 qualifier against Hungary.
Police in Bosnia advise caution around the stadium on match days and a lot of Welsh
fans will be bused in from Sarajevo late afternoon and bussed out straight after the
game
Information about the Bilino polje Stadium, Zenica cont.
The Welsh fans arriving by coaches will be in a cordoned off zone along the river that leads to the area
above behind the goals. Fans who travel independently to the game will need to get into the cordoned
off area on the night of the match.
For fans who are in Zenica on match day and not with the coaches the police in the city have advised
caution.
Directions to the stadium
Bilino Polje Stadium is located centrally within the compact city of Zenica which is the fourth largest in
Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Bilino polje Stadium can be easily found in the center of Zenica. If arriving by car from Sarajevo, you‘ll
enter Zenica by the Hotel Zenica (on the map); stadium is just half mile from there (you can see the
floodlights).
If arriving by public buses, you‘ll get just above Energopetrol gas station which is just half mile from the
stadiumFrom the city centre the stadium is walk able within 7 minutes or less with practically no need
for public transport. Wales fans will be housed in a segregated area behind the goals as shown below
and also in the adjacent stand shown opposite.
Stadium and Currency information to assist Welsh fans
Is there segregation inside the stadium?
Yes. The visiting supporters are in a separate (North-West) section divided by fences.
Is there a segregation policy outside the stadium...re separate entrances?
Yes. Welsh supporters will be directed by police to their gates. They will not be allowed to go to gates of
the supporters of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The point where Welsh and local supporters may actually
mix before the match is on the streets leading to the stadium.
Are match programmes produced and available...what is the cost?
No
Is there a list of articles fans are forbidden to take into the stadium...can you smoke in the stadium?
Yes. The articles which are not allowed are: pyrotechnical objects, knives, knuckle dusters and other
objects that may be used for fighting. Coins, keys and key-holders are not considered dangerous objects.
Glass bottles and big plastic bottles are NOT allowed. Any bottles must be left when entering the gate.
In theory the stadium authorities ban smoking but this restriction is not enforced on the tribunes.
What is the policy re admission of drunk fans?
If there are obvious signs that someone is seriously drunk when entering the stadium they might be
asked to do a breathing test. If the police find their condition inappropriate they will not be admitted
and will be escorted outside the exclusion zone around the stadium.
Will Welsh fans be searched before entry?
Yes - on the same basis as local fans.
Will fans be kept in the stadium after the game has ended?
It will depend on the atmosphere during the match
Are there any particular dangers around the stadium?
There will be a large police presence but still we would advise against wandering at night.
Are there bars in the vicinity of the stadium, will they be open on match day?
Yes, to home fans but Bosnia police advise against use by Welsh supporters
Is alcohol or any other drinks sold in the stadium?
No alcohol is sold in the stadium, but soft drinks will be available
Money
£1 = 2.70 Bosnian (convertible) marks (KM)
£10 = 27 Bosnian marks, (Correct September 2015)
Currency in Bosnia and Herzegovina is Convertible Mark. The international abbreviation for currency is
BAM, while KM is used locally. The rate has been fixed to EUR as 1.95 KM = 1 Euro. You can‘t buy
Bosnian marks from banks and foreign exchange offices in the UK and you will need to exchange
them back before leaving the country. There are many banks and exchange offices in Bosnia and
Herzegovina that normally exchange all major currencies (bank notes only!). Check the rates of
exchange before making a transaction and where possible, you should change money in banks, in large
hotels or in exchange offices. It is not possible (or very difficult) to exchange travellers’ cheques. Be
aware that Scottish and Irish bank notes or coins may not be exchanged. There is a large network of
ATMs that accept standard international credit and debit cards. Check with your UK bank/card provider
whether you‘ll be able to use these ATMs to draw Bosnian marks (KM).Some shops will accept payment
in Euro bills.
FSF Cymru Help line number is + 447905 861848
Sarajevo airport information
Facts about Sarajevo International Airport
During the siege of Sarajevo 1992-1995, the airport was situated right on the frontlines. In the biggest
humanitarian operation in history of the UN, some 13,000 flights were carried out and over 160,000 tons of
international humanitarian aid was delivered. However, the flights were often suspended and local UN soldiers
nicknamed all the flights as „Maybe Airlines“ and, if wanted, even stamped passports with „Maybe Airlines
Sarajevo“. In August 1996, the Sarajevo International Airport was reopened to civilian air traffic. In 2014, 709,901
passengers traveled through the airport, compared to only 25,000 in 1996.
The airport is very simple – one hall serves both departures and arrivals but it is never very busy.
Shopping:
There is a newspapers and tobacco shop at the airport hall, post office as well. There are two cafe bars as well.
After passport control (for travellers departing), there is a duty free shop selling alcohol, tobacco, toiletries,
cosmetics, accessories and more. The same shop sells Herzegovinian wines and alcoholic beverages, as well as a
number of souvenirs. There is a cafe bar at the gates as well. Wi Fi is available at costs (pre-paid vuchers).
Money:
There are banks, several ATMs and exchange offices in the main hall.
Disabled facilities:
The airport has sloped entry to the car park for wheelchair users and designated disabled toilet facilities. There
are toilets for wheelchair users, and access between levels is facilitated via elevators and escalators. Sarajevo
International Airport also has facilities to aid the boarding or disembarkation of disabled travellers.
Airport to City centre approx. 8 miles
There is no public transport from/to the airport.
Taxi
Sarajevo has one of the cheapest taxi services in Europe. Several private taxi companies operate in the
city 24 hours a day. You can take a taxi (Sarajevo taxi) at the designated taxi stands in front of the
airport. Alternatively, you could request someone at the airport to call some of other taxi companies
(Red Taxi, Yellow Taxi, etc). cost one way (no matter if it is 1 or 4 persons) is approx. 12-20 Bosnian
marks (between £4 and £8). Taxis should have a taxi meter on. Luggage is not paid extra. Price is never
paid per person but per ride!
Generally, taxis in Sarajevo costs as follows: start is 1.50 Bosnian marks (approx. 50p), every kilometer
is 1 Bosnian mark (approx. 35p). You can flag down a passing taxi or you can call taxi companies and
order one – price is still the same. All vehicles use the taxi meter. The driver will issue the receipt
upon a request. If you want to call a taxi, the numbers are listed below:
Sarajevo Taxi +387 33 660 970 or +387 33 660 666
Red Taxi +387 33 760 600 or +387 61 760 600 or +387 33 468 728 or +387 61 468 728
Transport while in Sarajevo
Sarajevo is easy to move around with a cheap public transport system. Sarajevo is connected with a network of trams,
trolley-buses, buses and minibuses. The one-way ticket for tram or trolley-bus costs 1.60 Bosnian marks (approx. 60p)
if you purchase it in a kiosk. If you purchase it from a driver, the one-way ticket costs 1.80 Bosnian marks (approx.
70p). The ticket must be punched as soon as you enter the vehicle or after you purchase it from a driver. Ticket is valid
per one ride only. There are no daily tickets, there are no weekly tickets. To make it complicated, one-way ticket for
bus or minibus can‘t be purchased from a kiosk but only from the driver; costs 1.60 Bosnian marks (approx. 60p).
These don‘t need to be punched! In most cases, if not using taxis, you will use trams and buses, rarely trolley-buses.
Trams (map below). Trams cover mostly the main road through the city; number 3 is the main line. Some of them
(numbers 1 and 4) go to the main rail and bus station. Yes, tickets to be punched here!
Buses. Everything that's not covered by other means is covered by buses, plus some overlaps. Again, tickets can only
be bought from the driver and they don‘t need to be punched.
Trolley-buses. These cover some of the routes but are often crowded and slow. If you have a ticket, you need to punch
it. If you don‘t have a ticket, buy from a driver and you don‘t need it punched then. Easy.
Mini-buses. These cover periphery areas so if you end up using them, make sure you know where you are going and
how you will get back. Tickets only from the driver and no need to punch them (tickets!).
Tram lines are presented in red, along river Miljacka (in blue).
Center of the city is marked with green (just over 1.1 mile long).
Main bus and railway station are marked with SARAJEVO.
Football stadiums in Sarajevo
While in Sarajevo, you might want to
visit football grounds of three BIH
Premier League clubs:
FC Željezničar, formed in 1921 –
football ground Grbavica. It was right
on the frontline during the war. It has
old terraces with a steam machine;
symbol of railworkers.
FC Sarajevo, formed in 1946 – football
ground Olympic Stadium Koševo.
Today, next to it is a big graveyard
Stadium, a former football pitch set as a
graveyard in the war.
FC Olimpic, formed in 1993 – football
ground Otoka. New club.
Main tourist attractions whilst in Sarajevo
The artictic map above covers the main center of the city and easily some of the main tourist attractions
you might want to see and visit while in Sarajevo. This is the only major European city to have a
mosque, Catholic church, Orthodox church and synagogue within the same neighborhood and therefore
often referred as „Jerusalem of Europe“. Some of our recommendations include these:
Latin Bridge – this is where Gavrilo Princip killed Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophia which,
as history says, triggered the First World War. A display with photographs is available on this „corner
which started 20th century“ as was recently marked for the 100th anniversary. There, a small Museum
of Sarajevo 1878-1918 covers Austro-Hungarian period of Sarajevo’s and the country’s history. Open
every day from 10:00 to 18:00 (until 15:00 during Saturday and Sunday).
National Library – this one was built as a City Hall (Vijećnica), a symbol of Sarajevo, is the most
beautiful example of Austro-Hungarian period. Built in 1896, it was the seat of city authorities and after
the Second World War it became the National Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina. During systematic
shelling in 1992, it was totally burnt down with more than 1 million of books (basically, 90 percent of
invaluable books and manuscripts were destroyed). Recently renovated and open for public visits.
Inat kuća (Spite house) – just across the river from the City Hall, this small house has a very interesting
story since it used to be on the other side of the river! After long negotiations, the stubborn man finally
accepted to move out only if Austrians give him a bag of golden coins and if they move his house brick
by brick to the other side of the river. They had no choice but to do exactly what he had requested for.
Sarajevo brewery – (not on the map but just a short walk from Inat kuća) It was founded in 1864 during
the Ottoman era while the current building was built in 1893 on a natural source of spring water, drawn
from a well between 300 and 350 meters deep. A very nice cavemous beer hall where you can get very
good tap beer (light or dark) and some food (sausages with chips, chicken wings, etc) as well. It is 5
Bosnian marks for half-litre (approx. £1.80). Unfortunately, no tours of the brewery are available.
Baščaršija - often nicknamed by tourists as pigeon square, this is Sarajevo‘s old and the historical center
of the city built in 15th century. Due to the large fire in the 19th century, today Baščaršija is half the size
that it once was. This is a place where you can eat some of local fast food: čevapćići (small kebabs), pita
(pie with meat or cheese or spinach or potato or pumpkin). Expect to pay 7-10 Bosnian marks (approx.
£3) for a meal. There are several traditional restaurants at slightly higher prices but still quite cheap.
Pubs and cafe bars – the most popular ones are City Pub and Cheers in Zelenih beretki street and many
more along Ferhadija street. Expect to pay around 4 Bosnian marks (approx. £1.50) for a bottle of beer.
Sarajevo
Unfortunately many fans who have made the long trip to Bosnia &Herzegovina have been unable to
obtain match tickets due to the low allocation and we advise them to stay together and enjoy the
games in the Sarajevo city centre. There are many bars that will show the game live especially around
the Europe hotel near old district (bazaar)
Any fans travelling without a match ticket on the designated supporters coaches will not get to see the
game, the coaches will be parked in a cordoned off area of the city with access to the stadium but not
to the City itself and ticket less supporters will be told to stay in this area.
There are many bars in the City centre that show live football including the “Cheers bar”(below) You
can't miss Cheers, just look for the big double-decker bus on the main street, then walk into the alley.
This is not a typical UK-owned pub. While they appear to be from the UK, the staff is local and the music
is from the US. The local beer was only 3KM, (1.5 Euro) which is the cheapest you will find in Sarajevo.
There are Irish and English style pubs throughout the city but prices tend to be dearer than the local
bars, these include The Harp Irish bar address Aleje, Bosne Srebrne, The Dublin Bar in Ferhadja 28, the
Celtic House on Kranjceviceva and The Phoenix Pub a British Style Bar overlooking the City of Sarajevo
from high up above the City right on the Old Ottoman Wall that protected the City
Where to meet for a dink, food etc. in Sarajevo
Titos café A unique place completely dedicated to Josip Broz Tito. Located by the Wilson’s Walkway,
Located in an area that is fast becoming the 'centre' of Sarajevo with two brand new shopping centres in
the area, museums and within sight of the parliament building and the famous 'Holiday Inn' hotel.
additionally a few hundred metres from the famous 'Romeo & Juliet' bridge.
Essentially a bar devoted to Marshall Tito with a beer garden complete with old WWII jeeps / tanks in
the grounds. Where else could you have a pint as you sit on a tank?
Wine was 5 KM (£2) a glass with 500ml beer at 3.5 KM (c. £1.40). Aquarius Vils is another one of the
many café bars in this part of town easily accessed from the city centre by tram along the river
The centre of the Old Turkish Quarter has lots of
pubs , cafes and bars. People roam around through
the narrow streets popping into whichever
establishment catches their eye!!..
And here are the names of some
good cafes and bars recommended to us
Day: Caffe bar Aquarius; Caffe Opera; RADIO cafe
;People¨s; Havana; Caffe zlatna Ribica; Casa Del
Caffe; City lounge; Dibek Cafe; Male Daire; Nivea;
Alhambra Hookah Lounge
Night ;Caffe bar Hag; Cheers Pub; City Pub;
Downtown; Hacienda; Mash; Pravda; The Pub; Tito
Caffe bar Aquarius (below) Pub / Bar, Club, Zmaja od Bosne 13 (Vilsonovo šetalište), 71000 Sarajevo
British Embassy information for Welsh fans in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The British embassy address
39a, Hamdije Cemerlica street 71000 Sarajevo
PLEASE CONTACT FSF CYMRU IF YOU NEED
CONSULATE HELP AND WE WILL ASSIST YOU
British Embassy Sarajevo Telephone:
+387 33 282 200
The embassy is located in Hamdije Cemerlica 39a street, on the 10th floor of Vodoprivreda building.
By taxi - Sarajevo has hundreds of taxis and finding one at any time is never a problem. Take a taxi and
ask to be dropped off at ‘Britanska ambasada, Hamdije Cemerlica 39a’.
By tram or bus - Bus number 31e as well as all trams stop at ‘Pofalici’ tram and bus stations, a 3
minute walk from the embassy.
By trolley bus - All trolley buses stop at ‘Grbavica’ station, 5 minute walk from the embassy.
What a Consul can do:
Contact relatives and friends and ask them to help you with money or tickets
Advise on how to transfer funds
Refer you to local Social Services
Help you to get in touch with Local Lawyers or provide information on legal aid.
Arrange for next of kin to be informed of accident or a death and advise on procedures
Contact and visit British Nationals under arrest or in a Prison and, in certain circumstances, arrange for
messages to be sent to relatives or friends
Give guidance on organisations experienced in tracing missing persons
Make representations on your behalf to the local authorities in certain circumstances
But a Consul cannot:
Intervene in court proceedings
Get you out of prison
Give legal advice or instigate Court proceedings on your behalf
Get better treatment for you in hospital or prison than is provided for nationals
Investigate a crime
Pay your hotel, legal, medical or any other bills
Pay for travel tickets for you
Undertake work more properly done by travel representatives, airlines, banks or motoring organisations
Obtain accommodation, work or work permit for you
Renew or replace a Full British passport
Before you travel anywhere in the world outside of the United Kingdom please visit the
Know before you go website
https://www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo
British Embassy information for Welsh fans in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Please contact us at the FSF if possible before seeking Embassy assistance, we will be
able to guide you through the process. FSF Cymru Help line number is + 447905 861848
What to do if your British Passport is lost or stolen whilst in Bosnia/Herzegovina
It is vital you report a lost or stolen passport as soon as possible to the local police and to the British Embassy
even if you don't want to replace your passport immediately. This will reduce the risk of someone using your
passport or your identity.
When you report the loss or theft to the Embassy, they will give you a Lost or Stolen (LS01) Notification form to fill
in and sign. They will record the loss or theft of your passport and forward the information to Identity and Passport
Service. The IPS will then cancel your passport to reduce the risk of someone else using your identity. You need to
use form LS01 to report any loss or theft of your passport whether applying for a replacement passport or not.
Once you report your passport as lost or stolen, it is electronically cancelled. If you find it, you will not be able to
use it as a proof of identity, nationality, or for any other legal purpose. You must not use it as a means of
identification as this may be detected as a potentially fraudulent act.
You will also not be able to use it for travel. Doing so may cause the passport to be impounded by the Borders and
Immigration Authority at UK ports or airports. If travelling overseas, you could face deportation or arrest.
If your passport is lost or stolen the British Consulate in Sarajevo can issue an emergency travel document that
will get you home at a cost of approximately £95. Please contact the FSF Cymru help line if you need assistance,
we have direct contact with the consulate.
It can be very expensive paying for an emergency travel document and then having to pay for a new
passport back in the UK. On arrival in Bosnia/Herzegovina ensure your passport is always in a safe or
a secure place until you need it for the return journey
An emergency travel document allows you to leave the country you’re in and travel to your destination via a
maximum of 5 countries. The emergency travel document can also cover a return journey if you’re resident in the
country you’re applying from.
An emergency travel document doesn’t guarantee entry to every country. You may also need a visa. Check with
the embassy or consulate of the country or countries you’re intending to travel to or through. You must present:
• 2 identical recent photographs of yourself - make sure they meet the rules for passport photo or your
application will be delayed
• details of your intended travel plans - where and when you intend to travel (including countries you will travel
through)
• a completed application form
• a police report if your passport has been lost or stolen
• You will have to pay a fee, equivalent to £95. Embassy or consulate staff will tell how much this is in local
currency when you apply.
Getting your emergency travel document
The embassy or consulate staff will check that you’re eligible for an emergency travel document. If you’re not,
they will tell you why. Please contact FSF Cymru we will try to assist with this process
You may get the document on the day you apply if your circumstances are straightforward. If your
circumstances are more complex, it can take longer. You may need to change your travel plans.
Using your emergency travel document
The emergency travel document will only be valid for the journey that you specified when you applied and for a
specific period of time. This will be shown on the document.
Your existing British passport will be cancelled in most cases.
Immigration authorities may keep your emergency travel document when you arrive at your destination.
You will need to get a replacement passport when back in the UK if you intend doing anymore travelling and pay
the full costs, any fees that you paid for an emergency travel document will not be taken into account
Embassy
information for
andand
Herzegovina
British British
Embassy
information
forBosnia
Bosnia
Herzegovina
Safety and security
Political situation
There are occasional protests in major towns and cities. These are normally peaceful but can cause disruption to
traffic and limit access to public buildings. The anniversary of unrest that took place on 7 February 2014 can be a
focal point for protests. Keep up to date with developments, be vigilant, and avoid all protests. There is a small risk
of isolated violence linked to the return of displaced persons or the arrest of war crimes suspects. This can occur
without any warning anywhere in the country
Crime
The level of crime is low, and crime against foreigners is particularly low. Beware of pickpockets on public
transport, and in the tourist and pedestrian areas of Sarajevo and other cities. Excessive displays of wealth,
including large quantities of cash or jewellery and luxury vehicles can make you a target for opportunist thieves. Be
vigilant and make sure personal belongings including your passports are secure. There have been a number of
thefts from cars and from ‘locked’ compartments on trains. Make sure that all doors are properly locked and all
valuables are placed out of sight. Report all incidents of crime to the local police station and a get a written report.
Local travel
Landmines and other unexploded ordnance remain from the 1992-95 war. Highly populated areas and major
routes are clear of mines and are safe to visit, but you should take special care near to the former lines of conflict.
Although roads themselves may be clear on major routes, there are many landmines close to the edge of roads.
Don’t stray from roads and paved areas without an experienced guide. Unless you have an experienced guide, you
should avoid the open countryside and especially destroyed or abandoned buildings, neglected land, un-tarred
roads, woods and orchards, private property and abandoned villages. Abandoned buildings, even in towns and
cities may be booby trapped with mines. English is not widely spoken, but getting around is not difficult. Local rail,
bus and tram services are generally reliable if sometimes slow. Official taxis in Sarajevo and the major towns are
well-regulated, metered and generally safe to use. Taxi drivers from the Republika Srpska might be unwilling to
drive to a destination in the Federation, and vice versa. Don’t use unlicensed taxis.
Road travel
It is obligatory to have your Drivers’ Licence with you at all times when driving in/through Bosnia and Herzegovina.
A UK driving licence is valid as long as you’re driving your own vehicle or a car hired outside of Bosnia. If you’re
renting or using someone else’s vehicle within the country, an International Driving Permit is required. It should be
obtained in the UK prior to travel. You need valid insurance to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina in a vehicle. If you
don’t have the correct insurance, you’ll need to buy border insurance when you enter the country. The border
police should be able to direct you to the insurance company office at the border crossing. Euros are accepted, but
credit card payment is not always possible.
Some useful words and phrases
Do you speak English? - Govorite li engleski? I don’t speak Bosnian. - Ne govorim bosanski. I don’t
understand! - Ne razumijem! Yes/No - Da/Ne. Hello! - Zdravo! Goodbye! - Doviđenja! Sorry? - Molim?
Thank you! - Hvala! Can I have…/I would like… - Može li…/Trebam… What time is it? - Koliko je sati?
Beer – Pivo! One beer – Jedno pivo. Two beers – Dva piva. Three beers – Tri piva. Enough – Dosta! Vodka
– votka One coffee – jedna kafa Two coffees – dvije kafe. Can I pay? – Mogu li platiti?
Numbers
One – jedan, Two – dva, Three – tri, Four – četiri, Five – pet, Six – šest, Seven – sedam, Eight – osam,
Nine – devet, Ten – deset, 100 – sto, 1000 – hiljada, Million – milion.
Important telephone numbers
Police 122, Ambulance 124, Fire brigade 123, FSF Cymru +447905 861 848, FAW +447827 157 874
24-hour Pharmacies in Sarajevo +387 33 552 130, +387 33 713 830, +387 33 272 300, +387 33 716 331
Emergency number 112 can be called on all occasions. Usually they have English speakers available which
might not be the case with the separate ones for the Police, Ambulance and Fire brigade.
Additional useful information for Welsh fans
FAW Ticket information
Lucy Mason FAW ticket manager will be available for ticket collections from her ground floor just off the
reception/lobby in the Hotel Internacional ( pictured above)
Friday afternoon and Saturday evening. The exact times will be in the collection info emails she sent
out. Ideally she hopes to be available Friday afternoon noon until 4 pm and match day 5 pm until kick
off
All collections can only be made n Zenica, this shouldn’t be a problem though as the hotel is within the
compound which is in the cordoned off area only Welsh fans have access to.
As always anyone collecting must bring photo ID and tickets will not be released without it.
Why not take in a tour whilst in Sarajevo? It is
such an interesting country with an amazing
history.
Contact Funky tours Tel/sms: + 387 62 910 546
[email protected] they take groups
of 4 ,8 12 or even full coach tours. We recommend
the Sarajevo Total Siege Tour (War Tunnel incl.)
cost 20 Euro
This is what they say “We honestly think that
learning and, very much seeing good things and
sites about Siege of Sarajevo is mainly a must do
thing while visiting Sarajevo. That is why in this
total tour we shall cover everything, and I mean
everything one should know and see about the
suffering of this great city during the Siege. Book
it you will not regret it!”
Information about Zenica
Zenica is located on the Bosna River, and is the fourth largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city is
sometimes also known by the name "Bistua Nova", which is the name given to the city by the Romans.
Zenica is an important economic and transportation hub for the country, and has many attractions and
sites which Welsh fans may want to visit. Some of the city's most popular attractions include the old
town, named "Stara čaršija" and the Zenica Steel Factory. The city has a rich history, and Welsh fans
wandering around the city will find a number of buildings and monuments which reflect this. Zenica also
offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and leisure, whilst the city's nightlife features a number of
bars, clubs and live music venues. Plus, the city also boasts a number of restaurants which can offer any
Welsh fans visiting Zenica a taste of the local cuisine.
The town's Stara čaršija (old quarter) contains several attractions, including a synagogue, which is now
the City Museum and Art Gallery. There is also a mosque (Čaršijska mosque), an Austrian fountain, and
an old bey's farm house (Hadžimazića House). Fatih Sultan Mehmed Barracks of the Turkish Armed
Forces is also based in Zenica within the peace-keeping activities of European forces in the country.
Zenica has nice restaurants serving Bosnian food, fast food, and there are bakeries in the old town
Čaršija.
Zenica is connected with Sarajevo (70 kilometres (40 mi) to the southeast), by rail and road, both of
which run along the valley of the river Bosna. The A1 motorway connects Zenica
with Sarajevo and Mostar. The closest airport is Sarajevo International Airport. The railway line continues
to the south, eventually reaching the coast at Ploče in Croatia.
Football matches throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina draw considerable crowds, but are traditionally
peaceful. In the hours before and after matches, heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic should be
expected due to marches or parades with spectators making their way to/from stadiums. Following the
matches, these spectators flood the immediate area around stadiums and venues showing the match
including bars and restaurants. Although matches are traditionally peaceful throughout Bosnia and
Herzegovina, there have been reports of violence breaking out between rival fans following matches in
the past. During similar events in the past, police also reported celebratory gun fire in urban areas. We
advise caution on match day
Getting to Zenica from Sarajevo and other close cities
Whilst it is our responsibility to pass on the Bosnian and Herzegovinian police advice to Welsh fans that
they could not guarantee their safety outside the coach convoy, we fully understand that some intrepid
fans will still go to Zenica exploring the city and prefer to do it independently. With this in mind we have
compiled a bus time table and transport schedule to get to and from Zenica.
Direct travel distance:73 km Fastest travel time:01:10h cost £2-£3
Zenica Bus Terminal Bulevar Kralja Tvrtka I 72000 to Sarajevo Bus station Put života, 71000
Bus Times From Sarajevo to Zenica correct at time of publication but check at central bus station for updates
5 am arrive in Zenica at 6.15 am
7 am arrive in Zenica at 8.15 am
7.45 am arrive in Zenica at 9.15 am
3.15 pm arrive in Zenica at 4.35 pm
4.30 pm arrive at Zenica at 5.45 pm
6.30 pm arrive at Zenica at 8 pm
Bus times from Zenica to Sarajevo ( check at bus station for updates)
Midnight to arrive in Sarajevo at 1.30 am
0.38 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 2.03 am
2.30 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 3.45 am
5 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 6.50 am
8 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 9.10 am
8.35 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 9.55 am
9 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 10.15 am
10.10 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 11.35 am
11 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 12.15 pm
18.10 pm to arrive in Sarajevo at 19.35 pm
21.00 pm to arrive in Sarajevo at 22.15 pm
Getting around by train is a little slower than other modes of transport, but much more comfortable. In Bosnia
and Herzegovina, trains are punctual and low-cost. Trains from Sarajevo to Zenica Daily 4:36 a.m.; 6:55 a.m.;
7:12 a.m.; 10:42 a.m.; 11:52 a.m.; 1:53 p.m.; 7:27 p.m.; 9:27 p.m. cost is 6.90 km ( about £2.50p)
Zenica to Sarajevo 5.01 am,7.47 am,11.03 am and 19.18 all local trains 16.57 the Express train from Zagreb
leaves Zenica for Sarajevo.
Always check at main train stations for updates or cancellations, with the current problems on some
borders some services into and out of the country could be suspended.
National football team of Bosnia and Herzegovina
History
The Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team has qualified for a major international tournament once,
reaching the 2014 FIFA World Cup. It is yet to qualify for a UEFA European Championship, coming closest by
losing to Portugal in the play-offs for UEFA Euro 2012. The highest FIFA World Ranking was 13th in August 2013.
The team's first FIFA recognized friendly match was played in Tirana against Albania on 30 November 1995.
Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team was not eligible to take part in FIFA World Cup 1994 qualifiers as
the country only became a member of FIFA in July 1996. UEFA affiliation came in 1998 and again the country
missed out on taking part in UEFA Euro 1996 qualifiers. Bosnia and Herzegovina became the only nation in the
world in the modern times to first become a member of the World football organization FIFA followed by
becoming member of its continental organization, UEFA.
Their first international victory (2-1) as a FIFA member came against 1994 FIFA World Cup runners-up Italy on 6
November 1996. Bosnia and Herzegovina was ranked 170, while Italy were fifth at the time (a gap of 165 spots).
In 1996, the team was captained by Mehmed Bazdarevic who is their national coach today.
World Cup 2014
Drawn to face two time World Cup champions Argentina on 15 June 2014 at the famous Estádio do Maracanã in
Rio de Janeiro for their first ever World Cup game, team also faced 2013 Africa Cup of Nations champions
Nigeria, and Iran in Group F. Bosnia and Herzegovina conceded three minutes into their World Cup debut against
Argentina with a Sead Kolašinac own goal. In the 65th minute, Messi scored from the edge of the penalty area
before Vedad Ibišević scored Bosnia's first ever World Cup goal for a final result of 1–2.
On 21 June, Bosnia and Herzegovina played against Nigeria. Peter Odemwingie scored the only goal of the game,
however during the first half Edin Džeko had a goal incorrectly disallowed for being offside by the assistant
referee. The call was wrong which sparked controversy outcries from the Bosnian fans, especially after the
circulation of a photo catching the match referee Peter O'Leary celebrating with the Nigerian goalkeeper. During
the second half stoppage time Džeko was also unfortunate to have had his close range shot deflected onto the
post by Nigerian goalkeeper. Later in 2014, Peter O’Leary, the game referee speaking to New Zealand Herald
newspaper admitted Džeko's goal was disallowed in error.
On 25 June, Bosnia-Herzegovina recorded its first World Cup victory, beating Iran 3–1, with the goals scored by
Edin Džeko, Miralem Pjanić and Avdija Vršajević. Bosnia finished the tournament in Group stage placed third.
Euro 2016 qualification results: 9/9/14 Bosnia and Herzegovina – Cyprus 1-2, 10/10/14 Wales – Bosnia
and Herzegovina 0:0, 13/10/14 Bosnia and Herzegovina – Belgium 1-1, 16/11/14 Israel – Bosnia and
Herzegovina 3:0, 28/3/15 Andorra - Bosnia and Herzegovina 0:3, 12/6/15 Bosnia and Herzegovina – Israel
3:1, 3/9/2015 Belgium – Bosnia and Herzegovina 3:1, 6/9/2015 Bosnia and Herzegovina – Andorra 3-0
The
venues
Stade de France ( top left)is the largest stadium in France and the stadium where the French national team plays
its most important home matches. It has an 80.000 capacity. St Dennis ,Paris
Stade de France got built to serve as the centrepiece of the 1998 World Cup. At that time no stadium in France had
a capacity of over 45,000 and the tournament needed a 70,000+ stadium.
Stade Vélodrome (top right)was built to serve as a playing venue for the 1938 World Cup, and it soon became the
new home of Olympique de Marseille capacity 67,000
Grand Stade OL, is the currently under-construction new stadium of Olympique Lyonnais ( Lyon) and as such will
replace Stade Gerland as their permanent home. Capacity 58,000
Stade Pierre Mauroy Lille capacity 50,000
Parc de Princes was built to provide the city of Paris with a modern venue for important rugby and football
matches. The stadium replaced the old Vélodrome, that had stood in its place since 1897.
It has a capacity of 48,527 and is the home of Paris Saint Germain FC
Nouveau Stade de Bordeaux is the planned new stadium of Girondins de Bordeaux Construction was expected to
start in 2012, but the project was subject to severe criticism of local citizens who objected against the high costs,
estimated to be €166 million and for 50% financed with public money, and lawsuits delayed the start of works.
Capacity 42,000
Stade Geoffroy-Guichard ( bottom right ) home of AS Saint-Etienne Capacity: 41,500 seats
The Allianz Riviera, earlier referred to as Nice Eco Stadium and Grand Stade de Nice, is the recently opened new
stadium of OGC Nice. capacity 35,624
Stade Bollaert Delelis, earlier known as Stade Félix-Bollaert, officially opened in 1934 after a two-year construction
period. Lens capacity 41,233
Stadium de Toulouse ( bottom left ) was built in 1937. One year later, at the 1938 World Cup, it hosted the match
and rematch between Cuba and Romania in the first round of the tournament. Toulouse capacity 35,472
Wear Red for Wales
Sarajevo
Zenica
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