The Great Balkan Booze-Off

Drinking like a local (and maybe outdrinking one): From crisp Albanian beers to dangerously smooth rakija, every sip tells a story — most of which get funnier as the night goes on.
Eating like your Balkan grandma’s watching: Think grilled meats, flaky pies and food portions that laugh in the face of moderation.
Sleeping in a winery: “Wine Country” hits different when you don’t have to leave it.
Crossing borders and blurring memories: Two countries, endless toasts and at least one moment where you forget which flag you’re under.
Cultural exploration (loosely defined): Expect ancient monasteries, Ottoman towns and Skopje’s statue obsession — a mix of history, hilarity and “who ordered another round?”
Making friends fast: Nothing bonds strangers like shouting “Gëzuar!” over shared shots of plum brandy.
The Balkan Way: Discovering that “Balkan hospitality” means never saying no to seconds. Or thirds.
Finding balance: For every wine tasting, there’s a beer flight. For every feast, a stroll through postcard-worthy streets. (Emphasis on “stroll,” not “hike.”)
Becoming part of the story: After this trip, you won’t just visit the Balkans — you’ll survive them.

Transportation Services: You sit, we drive. No Balkan bus schedules, no hitchhiking with goats and babushkas.
Accommodation: Hotels, wineries and places with actual pillows (not hay bales).
Breakfasts: Starting the day with bread, cheese and caffeine is a Balkan birthright.
English-speaking driver/guide: Fluent in directions, history and pretending not to laugh when you mispronounce “rakija.”
Western Tipple Tours guides: Your partners in crime, snack-chooser and selfie photographer.
All visits & tastings:
- Brewery tour & beer tasting in Tirana (cheers in Albanian = “gëzuar!”).
- Distillery & rakija tasting in Ohrid (comes with bonus eyebrow singe).
- Honey tasting in Dihovo (so pure Pooh Bear would move here).
- Traditional lunch in Bitola (bring stretchy shorts).
- Winery & wine tasting in Demir Kapija (try not to move in permanently).
- Winery & wine tasting in Negotino (yes, more wine = more balance).
- Gin distillery tour & tasting in Skopje (juniper berries: nature’s gift to happy chaos).
- Dinner in Skopje (prepare to clap your hands and shout “bravo” at least once).

Insurance: We highly recommend it. It won’t save you from overeating baklava but it’s good for peace of mind.
International flights: You get yourself here - we’ll handle the fun once you land.
Tips: Optional but always appreciated. A smile, a “thank you” or slipping your local guide a kebab also works.
Personal expenses: Translation: that third round of cocktails, the wooden flask you’ll never use and the emergency stretchy trousers you’ll 100% buy in Bitola.
Everything not mentioned above: Like jet skis, hot-air balloons or a personal Balkan bodyguard. But hey, if you really want those, we’ll point you in the right direction.

You will eat. Constantly. The Balkans don’t do “light bites” — they do “try this, then this, then this until you beg for mercy.”
You will drink. Beer, wine, rakija, gin — sometimes all before lunch. Pace yourself or accept your fate.
You might be adopted by a Balkan grandma. She’ll feed you, toast you, and refuse to take no for an answer.
This is not a detox retreat. Unless your idea of cleansing involves cold beer and grilled meat.
Expect strong opinions. Everyone has “the best” wine, brandy, and recipe — you’re the lucky judge.
We provide transport for a reason. Please, for everyone’s sake, do not volunteer to drive.
It’s a cultural trip…technically. There will be history, monuments, and learning — conveniently scheduled between meals and tastings.
You don’t need to know anything about Balkan drinks. You’ll become an expert in saying “cheers” in multiple languages.
Comfortable clothes recommended. Waistbands are optional by Day 3.
You may leave heavier — in luggage, bottles, and emotional attachment.

Stretchy trousers – The Balkans don’t do small portions. Neither should you.
An adventurous liver – Just kidding. Bring your enthusiasm instead — it’s safer and easier to pack.
Sunglasses – For sunshine, selfies and pretending you’re fine after rakija night.
A reusable water bottle – Hydration: the only responsible thing you’ll do all week.
A power bank – Your phone will die somewhere between the 200th statue in Skopje and the third wine cellar selfie.
An appetite – Mandatory. You’ll be force-fed love, carbs and grilled meat at every turn.
Elasticated patience – Balkan time runs on vibes, not schedules.
A sense of humour – Essential for border crossings, toasts gone wrong and spontaneous dance circles.
Extra luggage space – For “just one bottle” that somehow becomes a full suitcase.
A notebook or solid memory – To remember the names of all the drinks you swore you’d never forget.
Mild delusion – For thinking you’ll go easy on Day 1. You won’t.