USIS, present in Sarajevo since 1975, promotes press freedom and professionalism, civic education and academic excellence. Recently, the embassy began accepting nonimmigrant visa applications. Not all Foreign Service officers in Bosnia-Herzegovina live and work in Sarajevo or even work directly for the U.S. government. Two officers operate embassy branch offices in Banja Luka and Mostar. Special visitors are many.
Free weekends are rare.
Beyond the challenges of the job, there is a charm and civility about life in Sarajevo that appeals deeply to many Americans. Riding on the cross-town tram, buying butter by the slab in the market, strolling with crowds of Sarajevans through the old city on a warm summer evening or watching anglers along the river bank evoke a vibrant urban life rare in the United States. As mine clearing proceeds, some of the Olympic ski slopes above the city are being returned to use. Trees are being replanted in city parks made barren by the wartime need for firewood. Restaurants abound, offering everything from traditional Bosnian meals to a persuasive approximation of Tex-Mex cooking.