Let me share the story of Ohrid.
But before I begin, let me tell you why I enjoy sharing on Google Maps and Google Local Guides. Well, I am a bit of a history buff. Love reading about history and people living long time ago. I think it gives some unbelievable perspectives to the lives we live today.
So, whenever I post some photos or reviews on Google Maps, I try to include some history info or context. Nothing boring or long, Just couple of sentences that give context to the place and photo. I believe when people have a bit of history context about some new place they appreciate it much more. And actually experience it in a much more meaningful way.
And thats why I love sharing on Google Maps. Sharing photos, with a bit of history info that make people experience new places in a totally different way. You know, that moment when someone sees my photo and reads my info somehow its not anymore just another clueless tourist. He knows. And that makes me smile ?
And now, let me tell you about the city of pearls and churches: Ohrid
Archaeological finds indicate that Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. The Lake itself is over three million years old! It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Macedonia.
Fun Fact: there are around 365 churches. One for every day ?
Ohrid’s biggest attractions are all located in a small and concentrated walkable area. The Old Town with its narrow streets filled with restaurants and cafés perfect to try the local food and meet local people.
There are many places to visit and explore. When visiting don’t miss Church of Saint John at Kaneo , Plaoshnik , Saint Pantelejmon and Saint Naum Monastery .
The city is famous for its ‘pearls’ that are made from the scales of a little fish called plasica. And they are all hand made! Two local families – Talev and Filev – secretly guard the secret of pearl making, but you can check into one of their shops and buy handmade pearl jewellery.
Don’t be fooled by the tourist-trap pizza places in the main square – there are excellent cafés and restaurants in Ohrid. Start your day going to a bakery for a burek, a flaky pastry with a variety of fillings, of which spinach and white cheese the best. Also try a cup of yogurt - Macedonian style.
The local speciality is fish soup from a variety hooked straight from Ohrid Lake. Also try the local fish, grilled meats and over 90 Macedonian wines.
The prices of food, drinks and accommodation are affordable and you will not have to spend a lot to have a great time.
Places and discoveries like this are the reason why I love sharing on Google Maps. Telling a story about a city from my personal view. Finding and sharing interesting things that tourists usually miss. Thanks to Google Maps and Local guides I actually feel like a secret guide ?
I always imagine some tourist, opening Google Maps, seeing my photos and read a bit of history context about that place. I believe that makes people enjoy and experience the places much much more. And that makes me smile.
Visit Ohrid, Macedonia ?