Exploring Skopje, North Macedonia
Can you believe it? The 2024-2025 school year has officially begun, and I’m entering year 6 as a School Psychologist! Time really does fly when you’re having fun!
My first assignment of this school year took me to the wonderful city of Skopje, North Macedonia, where I was asked to assess a student. Skopje is a city like no other. The city is full of rich history and interesting cultural influences. Here are some things that I would recommend if you spend time there!
Visit Macedonia Square
This is a must see when you are in Skopje. Right near the square are small coffee shops. In the square itself is a statue of Alexander the Great (or as the locals call it, “Warrior on a Horse”). Nearby are many more sculptures and statues of Greek Gods and historical figures. From here, you can slowly make your way to the Stone Bridge, another iconic landmark the area.
Visit the Old Bazaar
The Old Bazaar offers a unique experience that takes you to another era. The vibrant streets are full of life, and the mix of shops, cafes, and historical buildings. The number of gold jewelry shops is certainly surprising. Whether you're there to shop or simply to soak in the atmosphere, the Old Bazaar is a memorable destination that leaves a lasting impression.
Explore the Memorial House of Mother Teresa
Did you know that Mother Teresa was born in Skopje? Just minutes from Macedonia Square, you can find a Memorial House dedicated to Mother Teresa. The exhibits walk you through her life and the work that she did while she was still alive.
Eat at a Kafana
When chatting with locals, they all highly recommend trying a traditional meal at a Kafana. I visited one called “Restaurant Baba Cana.” I had a dish similar to a burger… Just more delicious and mouthwatering. This dish is sometimes known as Sharska Pleskavica or Lovechka Planina. Typically, it doesn’t contain cheese, but I couldn’t resist trying one with it! Some other food recommendations include Burek, Ajvar, Tavče Gravče, and Kofte.
Take a Stroll at the Mall
I don’t know about you, but I absolutely love exploring malls in different countries! Since there aren’t any close to me in Germany, it makes the experience even more special. During my recent trip, I checked out Skopje City Mall and Ramstore Shopping Center. I had a great time window shopping and comparing prices to Germany and New York. If you enjoy shopping, be sure to add these malls to your visit list!
Final Thoughts
My time in Skopje not only gave me the opportunity to assess a student, but also helped me grow as an international school psychologist. I gained a deeper understanding of a different education system in a country that has limited resources. I also gained a deeper understanding of a new culture, and learned that there is still in fact a lot of stigma behind mental health and neurodiverse individuals. It was an eye opening experience and a good way to start the new school year.