A totally roasting weekend (eating, funnily enough, “roast lamb”) has had me considering whether or not to sacrifice all my current social media platforms and tools for a solitary presence using Google Plus, or Google+.

I am not sold on the argument that Google+ is another passing fad, as already I can see how more in control of my content I am. The idea of “circles” certainly looks a better privacy proposition for the everyday user like me.

Wondering if the News of the World would have found a way to hack them though?

Anyway, I have migrated all my Facebook (FB) images into picasa, and so by default, into google+ and next I will see what other existing media and data I have on line can also be migrated.

I also have researched a little about google plus and came across “How Google+ Will Balkanize Your Social Life”

WTF has the term “Balkanize” really got to do with Social Media?

Maybe the idea of segragating content in a more controlled way is a step forward from what we all experience now. I mean, FB is forever being slated for exposing privacy flaws concerning the data WE put on line.

Balkanization though?

The word itself has such emotional overtones as a result of the “Terrible Nineties” in this region where I now live.

Whatever.

Maybe Google+ is what the Balkans need though as a tool for open communiaction without “Big Brother” (Veliki Brat) being able to snoop and thereby snuff out dissent.

For more about Balkanization click HERE

Walking around my local town of Laktasi and the city of Banja Luka some 25kms away, in this glorious summer weather, there is, I feel, something missing that’s so evident in other countries across Europe and in fact, the world. 

What’s missing?

Tourists.

Well there may well be the odd one or two, but as you walk around this beautiful country you very rarely hear a non Balkans accent or language being spoken.

Why?

Maybe the events of the “terrible nineties” that occurred in the region especially here in Bosnia and Hercegovina, still linger prominently in peoples minds. I say this as some of my friends still ask if they need a steel helmet and body armour when invited to come and visit. Weird and stupid maybe but a fact.

Bosnia has been looking at developing their tourism for years now, but it seems to be amazingly slow in developing.

This country now boasts quality venues for certain extreme sports, has some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, the only “jungle” left in Europe, food and drink to die for and hospitality that’s certainly second to none.

If you are reading this, then think about changing the venue for your next break away. Oh by the way its sooo cheap here as well!!

Where to stay?

There are hotels from International 5 star standard down and also high quality hostels at 22km a night (that’s 10GBP). One such hostel in Banja Luka can be found HERE.

I have no contact with any tourism element for Bosnia and Hercegovina so I am not selling anything other than a tip for a great place to visit.