Football Supporters’ Federation WalesFSF Cymru Issue 40

Information for the fans by the fans. FSF Help line number is

+447905 861 848

European Championship Qualifier

Bosnia-Herzegovina vs WalesSaturday, October 10th 2015, kickoff 20:45

Bilino polje stadium, Zenica

Welcome to Issue 40 of our FSF Cymru information booklet for Welsh fans. This is our ninth and penultimate fixture in this historic qualifying campaign on the road to our first major tournament finals since 1958.We find ourselves back here in the Balkans and a visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, a very strong football national team. We played out a difficult drawn game in Cardiff a year ago to share the points and a similar result tonight would suit Wales. An excellent return of 4 points from our September fixtures would see us qualify if we remain unbeaten this evening. Top Tip – Keep a copy of your passport and a list of important phone numbers in a place that can be easily accessed if needed. A good idea would be to scan your passport and e mail it to yourself.

FSF CYMRU - by Wales fans, for Wales fans - an independent organisation, committed to helping Wales supporters. FSF Cymru are proud members of FSE (Football Supporters Europe)

MISSION STATEMENTTo help and support Wales fans who travel away. Our role is to provide accurate and objective information, including a Risk Assessment: we convey what other agencies, such as police forces, government departments, and football authorities are recommending: we publish a comprehensive guide which is distributed free of charge to all travelling supporters: we operate and publicise a 24 hour Hotline for fans in difficulties: we arrange a Football embassy operation, at venues abroad, where we can offer advice, guidance and support as necessary.To work with the Football Association of Wales in all aspects affecting the fans, to ensure that the supporters voice is heard.A continuous, running dialogue is held with Mr Mark Evans, Head, International Affairs, we take supporters complaints, views to the FAW for discussion “To take every possible action to eradicate any inter club rivalry when fans are following the Welsh national team”

Before you travel anywhere in the world outside of the United Kingdom please visit the

Know before you go website https://www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo

Bosnia and Herzegovina make up a triangular-shaped republic on the Balkan Peninsula. It is ranked 128th biggest country in area measuring almost 20,000 square miles. The Bosnian region in the north is mmountainous and covered with thick forests. The Herzegovina region in the south is largely rugged, flat farmland. It has a narrow coastline without natural harbours stretching 13 milies along the Adriatic Sea.Sarajevo, the capital city, is where most Welsh fans will be based and this was once the home of the winter Olympics in 1984 before the city was besieged in the 1990’s and on the edge of annihilation. Today, its restored historic centre is full of welcoming cafes and good-value accommodation, with the bullet holes largely plastered over on the city's curious architectural mixture of Ottoman and Austro Hungarian buildings. The country as a whole has a population of 3,871,000 with its biggest cities including Sarajevo 370,000, Banja Luka 151,000, Tuzia 80,500 and Zenica where the match will be played having a population of almost 74,000.

TOGETHER STRONGER

FSF Cymru Help line number is + 447905 861848

FSF Cymru Fan Embassy service during this trip will be based at the Hotel Astra Garni, (opposite)Situated just 200 yards from the Presidency Building in central Sarajevo, Kundurdžiluk 2, Sarajevo 71000.We will also be visible and available in bars and cafes throughout the city and available 24 hours on our hotline number and at the stadium on match aday+44 7905 861848

Information about the Bilino polje Stadium, Zenica

The main Wales end of 600 is in the north stand, in the west corner.The second section of 125 is next to our players complimentary tickets right at the north end of the west stand, so the two blocks are next to each other in effect.

Information about the Bilino polje Stadium, Zenica cont.

Bilino polje Stadium is the home football stadium of Bosnian Premier League football club Čelik from Zenica.

At the same time, it is a stadium used for matches of the national football team of Bosnia and Herzegovina. FC Čelik was founded in 1945 and throughout the years the club had changed four different stadiums until finally settling at their current ground which was built in 1972. It was officially opened on 4 October 1972 for the second leg of the 1972 Mitropa Cup final against Fiorentina which Čelik won 1–0 to claim their second title in a row(Mitropa Cup, officially known as La Coupe de l'Europe Centrale, was one of the first international major Europeanfootball cups for clubs; discontinued after 1992). The attendance record of 35,000 still stands today due to the introduction of seats. Today, the official capacity today is 13,632 but slightly lower for international matches. Fans of Čelik attend the games of Bosnia and Herzegovina at the South tribune while fans in the North tribune are BH Fanaticos, the main organized group of Bosnia and Herzegovina fans One of two stadium’s used by the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team, Stadion Bilino Polje is smaller than Asim Ferhatovic however it is much preferred.Not only is it rectangular unlike Asim Ferhatovic Olympic Stadium which allows for better views, the compact nature allows for better acoustics and a more lively atmosphere for the home side.Constructed over a period of 8 months, it was completed in time to host to host matches of the Mitropa Cup which features clubs from across Europe. NK Čelik defeated ACF Fiorentina in order to retain their title, and christen their new ground with an impressive victory.Built very much in the English model, the rectangular arrangement of stands is still somewhat uncommon on Bosnia and Herzegovina to this day. Stadion Bilino Polje is arguably the most celebrated stadium in the country despite not being located in the capital city or boasting the largest capacity.The first international match of Bosnia was played against Albania in 1996, and for the next 10 years Bilino Polke Stadium became known as a fortress. Across 15 matches, Bosnia’s national team was undefeated until a Euro 2008 qualifier against Hungary.

Police in Bosnia advise caution around the stadium on match days and a lot of Welsh fans will be bused in from Sarajevo late afternoon and bussed out straight after the game

The photographs above show the areas where the Welsh fans will have access to outside the stadium and the location of the coaches.

Information about the Bilino polje Stadium, Zenica cont.

The Welsh fans arriving by coaches will be in a cordoned off zone along the river that leads to the area above behind the goals. Fans who travel independently to the game will need to get into the cordoned off area on the night of the match. For fans who are in Zenica on match day and not with the coaches the police in the city have advised caution.Directions to the stadiumBilino Polje Stadium is located centrally within the compact city of Zenica which is the fourth largest in Bosnia and Herzegovina.Bilino polje Stadium can be easily found in the center of Zenica. If arriving by car from Sarajevo, you‘ll enter Zenica by the Hotel Zenica (on the map); stadium is just half mile from there (you can see the floodlights). If arriving by public buses, you‘ll get just above Energopetrol gas station which is just half mile from the stadiumFrom the city centre the stadium is walk able within 7 minutes or less with practically no need for public transport. Wales fans will be housed in a segregated area behind the goals as shown below and also in the adjacent stand shown opposite.

Stadium and Currency information to assist Welsh fans

Is there segregation inside the stadium?Yes. The visiting supporters are in a separate (North-West) section divided by fences.Is there a segregation policy outside the stadium...re separate entrances?Yes. Welsh supporters will be directed by police to their gates. They will not be allowed to go to gates of the supporters of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The point where Welsh and local supporters may actually mix before the match is on the streets leading to the stadium. Are match programmes produced and available...what is the cost?NoIs there a list of articles fans are forbidden to take into the stadium...can you smoke in the stadium?Yes. The articles which are not allowed are: pyrotechnical objects, knives, knuckle dusters and other objects that may be used for fighting. Coins, keys and key-holders are not considered dangerous objects.Glass bottles and big plastic bottles are NOT allowed. Any bottles must be left when entering the gate.In theory the stadium authorities ban smoking but this restriction is not enforced on the tribunes.What is the policy re admission of drunk fans?If there are obvious signs that someone is seriously drunk when entering the stadium they might be asked to do a breathing test. If the police find their condition inappropriate they will not be admitted and will be escorted outside the exclusion zone around the stadium.Will Welsh fans be searched before entry?Yes - on the same basis as local fans. Will fans be kept in the stadium after the game has ended? It will depend on the atmosphere during the matchAre there any particular dangers around the stadium?There will be a large police presence but still we would advise against wandering at night.Are there bars in the vicinity of the stadium, will they be open on match day?Yes, to home fans but Bosnia police advise against use by Welsh supportersIs alcohol or any other drinks sold in the stadium?No alcohol is sold in the stadium, but soft drinks will be available

Money£1 = 2.70 Bosnian (convertible) marks (KM)

£10 = 27 Bosnian marks, (Correct September 2015)Currency in Bosnia and Herzegovina is Convertible Mark. The international abbreviation for currency isBAM, while KM is used locally. The rate has been fixed to EUR as 1.95 KM = 1 Euro. You can‘t buy Bosnian marks from banks and foreign exchange offices in the UK and you will need to exchange them back before leaving the country. There are many banks and exchange offices in Bosnia and Herzegovina that normally exchange all major currencies (bank notes only!). Check the rates of exchange before making a transaction and where possible, you should change money in banks, in large hotels or in exchange offices. It is not possible (or very difficult) to exchange travellers’ cheques. Be aware that Scottish and Irish bank notes or coins may not be exchanged. There is a large network of ATMs that accept standard international credit and debit cards. Check with your UK bank/card provider whether you‘ll be able to use these ATMs to draw Bosnian marks (KM).Some shops will accept payment in Euro bills.

FSF Cymru Help line number is + 447905 861848

Airport to City centre approx. 8 milesThere is no public transport from/to the airport.

TaxiSarajevo has one of the cheapest taxi services in Europe. Several private taxi companies operate in the city 24 hours a day. You can take a taxi (Sarajevo taxi) at the designated taxi stands in front of the airport. Alternatively, you could request someone at the airport to call some of other taxi companies (Red Taxi, Yellow Taxi, etc). cost one way (no matter if it is 1 or 4 persons) is approx. 12-20 Bosnian marks (between £4 and £8). Taxis should have a taxi meter on. Luggage is not paid extra. Price is never paid per person but per ride!

Generally, taxis in Sarajevo costs as follows: start is 1.50 Bosnian marks (approx. 50p), every kilometer is 1 Bosnian mark (approx. 35p). You can flag down a passing taxi or you can call taxi companies and order one – price is still the same. All vehicles use the taxi meter. The driver will issue the receipt upon a request. If you want to call a taxi, the numbers are listed below:

Sarajevo Taxi +387 33 660 970 or +387 33 660 666Red Taxi +387 33 760 600 or +387 61 760 600 or +387 33 468 728 or +387 61 468 728

Facts about Sarajevo International AirportDuring the siege of Sarajevo 1992-1995, the airport was situated right on the frontlines. In the biggest humanitarian operation in history of the UN, some 13,000 flights were carried out and over 160,000 tons of international humanitarian aid was delivered. However, the flights were often suspended and local UN soldiers nicknamed all the flights as „Maybe Airlines“ and, if wanted, even stamped passports with „Maybe Airlines Sarajevo“. In August 1996, the Sarajevo International Airport was reopened to civilian air traffic. In 2014, 709,901 passengers traveled through the airport, compared to only 25,000 in 1996.The airport is very simple – one hall serves both departures and arrivals but it is never very busy.Shopping:There is a newspapers and tobacco shop at the airport hall, post office as well. There are two cafe bars as well. After passport control (for travellers departing), there is a duty free shop selling alcohol, tobacco, toiletries, cosmetics, accessories and more. The same shop sells Herzegovinian wines and alcoholic beverages, as well as a number of souvenirs. There is a cafe bar at the gates as well. Wi Fi is available at costs (pre-paid vuchers).Money:There are banks, several ATMs and exchange offices in the main hall.Disabled facilities:The airport has sloped entry to the car park for wheelchair users and designated disabled toilet facilities. There are toilets for wheelchair users, and access between levels is facilitated via elevators and escalators. SarajevoInternational Airport also has facilities to aid the boarding or disembarkation of disabled travellers.

Sarajevo airport information

Transport while in Sarajevo

Sarajevo is easy to move around with a cheap public transport system. Sarajevo is connected with a network of trams, trolley-buses, buses and minibuses. The one-way ticket for tram or trolley-bus costs 1.60 Bosnian marks (approx. 60p) if you purchase it in a kiosk. If you purchase it from a driver, the one-way ticket costs 1.80 Bosnian marks (approx. 70p). The ticket must be punched as soon as you enter the vehicle or after you purchase it from a driver. Ticket is valid per one ride only. There are no daily tickets, there are no weekly tickets. To make it complicated, one-way ticket for bus or minibus can‘t be purchased from a kiosk but only from the driver; costs 1.60 Bosnian marks (approx. 60p). These don‘t need to be punched! In most cases, if not using taxis, you will use trams and buses, rarely trolley-buses. Trams (map below). Trams cover mostly the main road through the city; number 3 is the main line. Some of them (numbers 1 and 4) go to the main rail and bus station. Yes, tickets to be punched here!Buses. Everything that's not covered by other means is covered by buses, plus some overlaps. Again, tickets can only be bought from the driver and they don‘t need to be punched.Trolley-buses. These cover some of the routes but are often crowded and slow. If you have a ticket, you need to punch it. If you don‘t have a ticket, buy from a driver and you don‘t need it punched then. Easy.Mini-buses. These cover periphery areas so if you end up using them, make sure you know where you are going and how you will get back. Tickets only from the driver and no need to punch them (tickets!).

Tram lines are presented in red, along river Miljacka (in blue).Center of the city is marked with green (just over 1.1 mile long).Main bus and railway station are marked with SARAJEVO.

Football stadiums in Sarajevo

While in Sarajevo, you might want to visit football grounds of three BIH Premier League clubs:FC Željezničar, formed in 1921 –football ground Grbavica. It was right on the frontline during the war. It has old terraces with a steam machine; symbol of railworkers.FC Sarajevo, formed in 1946 – football ground Olympic Stadium Koševo. Today, next to it is a big graveyard Stadium, a former football pitch set as a graveyard in the war.FC Olimpic, formed in 1993 – football ground Otoka. New club.

Main tourist attractions whilst in Sarajevo

The artictic map above covers the main center of the city and easily some of the main tourist attractions you might want to see and visit while in Sarajevo. This is the only major European city to have a mosque, Catholic church, Orthodox church and synagogue within the same neighborhood and therefore often referred as „Jerusalem of Europe“. Some of our recommendations include these:Latin Bridge – this is where Gavrilo Princip killed Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophia which, as history says, triggered the First World War. A display with photographs is available on this „corner which started 20th century“ as was recently marked for the 100th anniversary. There, a small Museum of Sarajevo 1878-1918 covers Austro-Hungarian period of Sarajevo’s and the country’s history. Open every day from 10:00 to 18:00 (until 15:00 during Saturday and Sunday).National Library – this one was built as a City Hall (Vijećnica), a symbol of Sarajevo, is the most beautiful example of Austro-Hungarian period. Built in 1896, it was the seat of city authorities and after the Second World War it became the National Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina. During systematic shelling in 1992, it was totally burnt down with more than 1 million of books (basically, 90 percent of invaluable books and manuscripts were destroyed). Recently renovated and open for public visits.Inat kuća (Spite house) – just across the river from the City Hall, this small house has a very interesting story since it used to be on the other side of the river! After long negotiations, the stubborn man finally accepted to move out only if Austrians give him a bag of golden coins and if they move his house brick by brick to the other side of the river. They had no choice but to do exactly what he had requested for.Sarajevo brewery – (not on the map but just a short walk from Inat kuća) It was founded in 1864 during the Ottoman era while the current building was built in 1893 on a natural source of spring water, drawn from a well between 300 and 350 meters deep. A very nice cavemous beer hall where you can get very good tap beer (light or dark) and some food (sausages with chips, chicken wings, etc) as well. It is 5 Bosnian marks for half-litre (approx. £1.80). Unfortunately, no tours of the brewery are available.Baščaršija - often nicknamed by tourists as pigeon square, this is Sarajevo‘s old and the historical center of the city built in 15th century. Due to the large fire in the 19th century, today Baščaršija is half the size that it once was. This is a place where you can eat some of local fast food: čevapćići (small kebabs), pita (pie with meat or cheese or spinach or potato or pumpkin). Expect to pay 7-10 Bosnian marks (approx. £3) for a meal. There are several traditional restaurants at slightly higher prices but still quite cheap. Pubs and cafe bars – the most popular ones are City Pub and Cheers in Zelenih beretki street and many more along Ferhadija street. Expect to pay around 4 Bosnian marks (approx. £1.50) for a bottle of beer.

Sarajevo

Unfortunately many fans who have made the long trip to Bosnia &Herzegovina have been unable to obtain match tickets due to the low allocation and we advise them to stay together and enjoy the games in the Sarajevo city centre. There are many bars that will show the game live especially around the Europe hotel near old district (bazaar)Any fans travelling without a match ticket on the designated supporters coaches will not get to see the game, the coaches will be parked in a cordoned off area of the city with access to the stadium but not to the City itself and ticket less supporters will be told to stay in this area.

There are many bars in the City centre that show live football including the “Cheers bar”(below) You can't miss Cheers, just look for the big double-decker bus on the main street, then walk into the alley. This is not a typical UK-owned pub. While they appear to be from the UK, the staff is local and the music is from the US. The local beer was only 3KM, (1.5 Euro) which is the cheapest you will find in Sarajevo.There are Irish and English style pubs throughout the city but prices tend to be dearer than the local bars, these include The Harp Irish bar address Aleje, Bosne Srebrne, The Dublin Bar in Ferhadja 28, theCeltic House on Kranjceviceva and The Phoenix Pub a British Style Bar overlooking the City of Sarajevo from high up above the City right on the Old Ottoman Wall that protected the City

Where to meet for a dink, food etc. in Sarajevo

Titos café A unique place completely dedicated to Josip Broz Tito. Located by the Wilson’s Walkway,Located in an area that is fast becoming the 'centre' of Sarajevo with two brand new shopping centres in the area, museums and within sight of the parliament building and the famous 'Holiday Inn' hotel. additionally a few hundred metres from the famous 'Romeo & Juliet' bridge.Essentially a bar devoted to Marshall Tito with a beer garden complete with old WWII jeeps / tanks in the grounds. Where else could you have a pint as you sit on a tank?Wine was 5 KM (£2) a glass with 500ml beer at 3.5 KM (c. £1.40). Aquarius Vils is another one of the many café bars in this part of town easily accessed from the city centre by tram along the river

The centre of the Old Turkish Quarter has lots of pubs , cafes and bars. People roam around through the narrow streets popping into whichever establishment catches their eye!!..And here are the names of some good cafes and bars recommended to usDay: Caffe bar Aquarius; Caffe Opera; RADIO cafe ;People¨s; Havana; Caffe zlatna Ribica; Casa Del Caffe; City lounge; Dibek Cafe; Male Daire; Nivea; Alhambra Hookah LoungeNight ;Caffe bar Hag; Cheers Pub; City Pub; Downtown; Hacienda; Mash; Pravda; The Pub; Tito

Caffe bar Aquarius (below) Pub / Bar, Club, Zmaja od Bosne 13 (Vilsonovo šetalište), 71000 Sarajevo

What a Consul can do:Contact relatives and friends and ask them to help you with money or ticketsAdvise on how to transfer fundsRefer you to local Social ServicesHelp you to get in touch with Local Lawyers or provide information on legal aid.Arrange for next of kin to be informed of accident or a death and advise on proceduresContact and visit British Nationals under arrest or in a Prison and, in certain circumstances, arrange for messages to be sent to relatives or friendsGive guidance on organisations experienced in tracing missing personsMake representations on your behalf to the local authorities in certain circumstances

But a Consul cannot:Intervene in court proceedingsGet you out of prisonGive legal advice or instigate Court proceedings on your behalfGet better treatment for you in hospital or prison than is provided for nationalsInvestigate a crimePay your hotel, legal, medical or any other billsPay for travel tickets for youUndertake work more properly done by travel representatives, airlines, banks or motoring organisationsObtain accommodation, work or work permit for youRenew or replace a Full British passport

The British embassy address 39a, Hamdije Cemerlica street 71000 SarajevoPLEASE CONTACT FSF CYMRU IF YOU NEED CONSULATE HELP AND WE WILL ASSIST YOU British Embassy Sarajevo Telephone: +387 33 282 200

The embassy is located in Hamdije Cemerlica 39a street, on the 10th floor of Vodoprivreda building.By taxi - Sarajevo has hundreds of taxis and finding one at any time is never a problem. Take a taxi and ask to be dropped off at ‘Britanska ambasada, Hamdije Cemerlica 39a’.By tram or bus - Bus number 31e as well as all trams stop at ‘Pofalici’ tram and bus stations, a 3 minute walk from the embassy.By trolley bus - All trolley buses stop at ‘Grbavica’ station, 5 minute walk from the embassy.

Before you travel anywhere in the world outside of the United Kingdom please visit the

Know before you go website https://www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo

British Embassy information for Welsh fans in Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Embassy information for Welsh fans in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Please contact us at the FSF if possible before seeking Embassy assistance, we will be able to guide you through the process. FSF Cymru Help line number is + 447905 861848

What to do if your British Passport is lost or stolen whilst in Bosnia/HerzegovinaIt is vital you report a lost or stolen passport as soon as possible to the local police and to the British Embassy even if you don't want to replace your passport immediately. This will reduce the risk of someone using your passport or your identity.When you report the loss or theft to the Embassy, they will give you a Lost or Stolen (LS01) Notification form to fill in and sign. They will record the loss or theft of your passport and forward the information to Identity and Passport Service. The IPS will then cancel your passport to reduce the risk of someone else using your identity. You need to use form LS01 to report any loss or theft of your passport whether applying for a replacement passport or not.Once you report your passport as lost or stolen, it is electronically cancelled. If you find it, you will not be able to use it as a proof of identity, nationality, or for any other legal purpose. You must not use it as a means of identification as this may be detected as a potentially fraudulent act.You will also not be able to use it for travel. Doing so may cause the passport to be impounded by the Borders and Immigration Authority at UK ports or airports. If travelling overseas, you could face deportation or arrest.If your passport is lost or stolen the British Consulate in Sarajevo can issue an emergency travel document that will get you home at a cost of approximately £95. Please contact the FSF Cymru help line if you need assistance, we have direct contact with the consulate.

It can be very expensive paying for an emergency travel document and then having to pay for a new passport back in the UK. On arrival in Bosnia/Herzegovina ensure your passport is always in a safe or a secure place until you need it for the return journey

An emergency travel document allows you to leave the country you’re in and travel to your destination via a maximum of 5 countries. The emergency travel document can also cover a return journey if you’re resident in the country you’re applying from.An emergency travel document doesn’t guarantee entry to every country. You may also need a visa. Check with the embassy or consulate of the country or countries you’re intending to travel to or through. You must present:• 2 identical recent photographs of yourself - make sure they meet the rules for passport photo or your

application will be delayed• details of your intended travel plans - where and when you intend to travel (including countries you will travel

through)• a completed application form• a police report if your passport has been lost or stolen• You will have to pay a fee, equivalent to £95. Embassy or consulate staff will tell how much this is in local

currency when you apply.

Getting your emergency travel documentThe embassy or consulate staff will check that you’re eligible for an emergency travel document. If you’re not, they will tell you why. Please contact FSF Cymru we will try to assist with this processYou may get the document on the day you apply if your circumstances are straightforward. If your circumstances are more complex, it can take longer. You may need to change your travel plans.

Using your emergency travel documentThe emergency travel document will only be valid for the journey that you specified when you applied and for a specific period of time. This will be shown on the document.Your existing British passport will be cancelled in most cases.Immigration authorities may keep your emergency travel document when you arrive at your destination.You will need to get a replacement passport when back in the UK if you intend doing anymore travelling and pay the full costs, any fees that you paid for an emergency travel document will not be taken into account

Safety and securityPolitical situation

There are occasional protests in major towns and cities. These are normally peaceful but can cause disruption to traffic and limit access to public buildings. The anniversary of unrest that took place on 7 February 2014 can be a focal point for protests. Keep up to date with developments, be vigilant, and avoid all protests. There is a small risk of isolated violence linked to the return of displaced persons or the arrest of war crimes suspects. This can occur without any warning anywhere in the country

CrimeThe level of crime is low, and crime against foreigners is particularly low. Beware of pickpockets on public transport, and in the tourist and pedestrian areas of Sarajevo and other cities. Excessive displays of wealth, including large quantities of cash or jewellery and luxury vehicles can make you a target for opportunist thieves. Be vigilant and make sure personal belongings including your passports are secure. There have been a number of thefts from cars and from ‘locked’ compartments on trains. Make sure that all doors are properly locked and all valuables are placed out of sight. Report all incidents of crime to the local police station and a get a written report.

Local travelLandmines and other unexploded ordnance remain from the 1992-95 war. Highly populated areas and major routes are clear of mines and are safe to visit, but you should take special care near to the former lines of conflict. Although roads themselves may be clear on major routes, there are many landmines close to the edge of roads. Don’t stray from roads and paved areas without an experienced guide. Unless you have an experienced guide, you should avoid the open countryside and especially destroyed or abandoned buildings, neglected land, un-tarred roads, woods and orchards, private property and abandoned villages. Abandoned buildings, even in towns and cities may be booby trapped with mines. English is not widely spoken, but getting around is not difficult. Local rail, bus and tram services are generally reliable if sometimes slow. Official taxis in Sarajevo and the major towns are well-regulated, metered and generally safe to use. Taxi drivers from the Republika Srpska might be unwilling to drive to a destination in the Federation, and vice versa. Don’t use unlicensed taxis.

Road travelIt is obligatory to have your Drivers’ Licence with you at all times when driving in/through Bosnia and Herzegovina. A UK driving licence is valid as long as you’re driving your own vehicle or a car hired outside of Bosnia. If you’re renting or using someone else’s vehicle within the country, an International Driving Permit is required. It should be obtained in the UK prior to travel. You need valid insurance to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina in a vehicle. If you don’t have the correct insurance, you’ll need to buy border insurance when you enter the country. The border police should be able to direct you to the insurance company office at the border crossing. Euros are accepted, but credit card payment is not always possible.

British Embassy information for Bosnia and Herzegovina

Some useful words and phrasesDo you speak English? - Govorite li engleski? I don’t speak Bosnian. - Ne govorim bosanski. I don’t understand! - Ne razumijem! Yes/No - Da/Ne. Hello! - Zdravo! Goodbye! - Doviđenja! Sorry? - Molim? Thank you! - Hvala! Can I have…/I would like… - Može li…/Trebam… What time is it? - Koliko je sati? Beer – Pivo! One beer – Jedno pivo. Two beers – Dva piva. Three beers – Tri piva. Enough – Dosta! Vodka– votka One coffee – jedna kafa Two coffees – dvije kafe. Can I pay? – Mogu li platiti?

NumbersOne – jedan, Two – dva, Three – tri, Four – četiri, Five – pet, Six – šest, Seven – sedam, Eight – osam, Nine – devet, Ten – deset, 100 – sto, 1000 – hiljada, Million – milion.

Important telephone numbersPolice 122, Ambulance 124, Fire brigade 123, FSF Cymru +447905 861 848, FAW +447827 157 87424-hour Pharmacies in Sarajevo +387 33 552 130, +387 33 713 830, +387 33 272 300, +387 33 716 331Emergency number 112 can be called on all occasions. Usually they have English speakers available which might not be the case with the separate ones for the Police, Ambulance and Fire brigade.

British Embassy information for Bosnia and Herzegovina

Additional useful information for Welsh fans

FAW Ticket informationLucy Mason FAW ticket manager will be available for ticket collections from her ground floor just off the reception/lobby in the Hotel Internacional ( pictured above)Friday afternoon and Saturday evening. The exact times will be in the collection info emails she sent out. Ideally she hopes to be available Friday afternoon noon until 4 pm and match day 5 pm until kick offAll collections can only be made n Zenica, this shouldn’t be a problem though as the hotel is within the compound which is in the cordoned off area only Welsh fans have access to.As always anyone collecting must bring photo ID and tickets will not be released without it.

Why not take in a tour whilst in Sarajevo? It is such an interesting country with an amazing history.Contact Funky tours Tel/sms: + 387 62 910 546 sarajevo.citytours@gmail.com they take groups of 4 ,8 12 or even full coach tours. We recommend the Sarajevo Total Siege Tour (War Tunnel incl.)cost 20 EuroThis is what they say “We honestly think that learning and, very much seeing good things and sites about Siege of Sarajevo is mainly a must do thing while visiting Sarajevo. That is why in this total tour we shall cover everything, and I mean everything one should know and see about the suffering of this great city during the Siege. Book it you will not regret it!”

Information about Zenica

Zenica is located on the Bosna River, and is the fourth largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city is sometimes also known by the name "Bistua Nova", which is the name given to the city by the Romans. Zenica is an important economic and transportation hub for the country, and has many attractions and sites which Welsh fans may want to visit. Some of the city's most popular attractions include the old town, named "Stara čaršija" and the Zenica Steel Factory. The city has a rich history, and Welsh fans wandering around the city will find a number of buildings and monuments which reflect this. Zenica also offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and leisure, whilst the city's nightlife features a number of bars, clubs and live music venues. Plus, the city also boasts a number of restaurants which can offer any Welsh fans visiting Zenica a taste of the local cuisine.The town's Stara čaršija (old quarter) contains several attractions, including a synagogue, which is now the City Museum and Art Gallery. There is also a mosque (Čaršijska mosque), an Austrian fountain, and an old bey's farm house (Hadžimazića House). Fatih Sultan Mehmed Barracks of the Turkish Armed Forces is also based in Zenica within the peace-keeping activities of European forces in the country.Zenica has nice restaurants serving Bosnian food, fast food, and there are bakeries in the old town Čaršija.Zenica is connected with Sarajevo (70 kilometres (40 mi) to the southeast), by rail and road, both of which run along the valley of the river Bosna. The A1 motorway connects Zenica with Sarajevo and Mostar. The closest airport is Sarajevo International Airport. The railway line continues to the south, eventually reaching the coast at Ploče in Croatia.

Football matches throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina draw considerable crowds, but are traditionally peaceful. In the hours before and after matches, heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic should be expected due to marches or parades with spectators making their way to/from stadiums. Following the matches, these spectators flood the immediate area around stadiums and venues showing the match including bars and restaurants. Although matches are traditionally peaceful throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, there have been reports of violence breaking out between rival fans following matches in the past. During similar events in the past, police also reported celebratory gun fire in urban areas. We advise caution on match day

Getting to Zenica from Sarajevo and other close cities

Whilst it is our responsibility to pass on the Bosnian and Herzegovinian police advice to Welsh fans that they could not guarantee their safety outside the coach convoy, we fully understand that some intrepid fans will still go to Zenica exploring the city and prefer to do it independently. With this in mind we have compiled a bus time table and transport schedule to get to and from Zenica.

Direct travel distance:73 km Fastest travel time:01:10h cost £2-£3Zenica Bus Terminal Bulevar Kralja Tvrtka I 72000 to Sarajevo Bus station Put života, 71000Bus Times From Sarajevo to Zenica correct at time of publication but check at central bus station for updates5 am arrive in Zenica at 6.15 am7 am arrive in Zenica at 8.15 am7.45 am arrive in Zenica at 9.15 am3.15 pm arrive in Zenica at 4.35 pm4.30 pm arrive at Zenica at 5.45 pm6.30 pm arrive at Zenica at 8 pm

Bus times from Zenica to Sarajevo ( check at bus station for updates)Midnight to arrive in Sarajevo at 1.30 am0.38 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 2.03 am2.30 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 3.45 am5 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 6.50 am8 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 9.10 am8.35 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 9.55 am9 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 10.15 am10.10 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 11.35 am11 am to arrive in Sarajevo at 12.15 pm18.10 pm to arrive in Sarajevo at 19.35 pm21.00 pm to arrive in Sarajevo at 22.15 pm

Getting around by train is a little slower than other modes of transport, but much more comfortable. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, trains are punctual and low-cost. Trains from Sarajevo to Zenica Daily 4:36 a.m.; 6:55 a.m.; 7:12 a.m.; 10:42 a.m.; 11:52 a.m.; 1:53 p.m.; 7:27 p.m.; 9:27 p.m. cost is 6.90 km ( about £2.50p)Zenica to Sarajevo 5.01 am,7.47 am,11.03 am and 19.18 all local trains 16.57 the Express train from Zagreb leaves Zenica for Sarajevo.

Always check at main train stations for updates or cancellations, with the current problems on some borders some services into and out of the country could be suspended.

HistoryThe Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team has qualified for a major international tournament once, reaching the 2014 FIFA World Cup. It is yet to qualify for a UEFA European Championship, coming closest by losing to Portugal in the play-offs for UEFA Euro 2012. The highest FIFA World Ranking was 13th in August 2013.The team's first FIFA recognized friendly match was played in Tirana against Albania on 30 November 1995.Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team was not eligible to take part in FIFA World Cup 1994 qualifiers as the country only became a member of FIFA in July 1996. UEFA affiliation came in 1998 and again the country missed out on taking part in UEFA Euro 1996 qualifiers. Bosnia and Herzegovina became the only nation in the world in the modern times to first become a member of the World football organization FIFA followed by becoming member of its continental organization, UEFA.Their first international victory (2-1) as a FIFA member came against 1994 FIFA World Cup runners-up Italy on 6 November 1996. Bosnia and Herzegovina was ranked 170, while Italy were fifth at the time (a gap of 165 spots).In 1996, the team was captained by Mehmed Bazdarevic who is their national coach today.

World Cup 2014Drawn to face two time World Cup champions Argentina on 15 June 2014 at the famous Estádio do Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro for their first ever World Cup game, team also faced 2013 Africa Cup of Nations champions Nigeria, and Iran in Group F. Bosnia and Herzegovina conceded three minutes into their World Cup debut against Argentina with a Sead Kolašinac own goal. In the 65th minute, Messi scored from the edge of the penalty area before Vedad Ibišević scored Bosnia's first ever World Cup goal for a final result of 1–2. On 21 June, Bosnia and Herzegovina played against Nigeria. Peter Odemwingie scored the only goal of the game, however during the first half Edin Džeko had a goal incorrectly disallowed for being offside by the assistant referee. The call was wrong which sparked controversy outcries from the Bosnian fans, especially after the circulation of a photo catching the match referee Peter O'Leary celebrating with the Nigerian goalkeeper. During the second half stoppage time Džeko was also unfortunate to have had his close range shot deflected onto the post by Nigerian goalkeeper. Later in 2014, Peter O’Leary, the game referee speaking to New Zealand Herald newspaper admitted Džeko's goal was disallowed in error. On 25 June, Bosnia-Herzegovina recorded its first World Cup victory, beating Iran 3–1, with the goals scored by Edin Džeko, Miralem Pjanić and Avdija Vršajević. Bosnia finished the tournament in Group stage placed third.

National football team of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Euro 2016 qualification results: 9/9/14 Bosnia and Herzegovina – Cyprus 1-2, 10/10/14 Wales – Bosnia and Herzegovina 0:0, 13/10/14 Bosnia and Herzegovina – Belgium 1-1, 16/11/14 Israel – Bosnia and Herzegovina 3:0, 28/3/15 Andorra - Bosnia and Herzegovina 0:3, 12/6/15 Bosnia and Herzegovina – Israel 3:1, 3/9/2015 Belgium – Bosnia and Herzegovina 3:1, 6/9/2015 Bosnia and Herzegovina – Andorra 3-0

The

venues

Stade de France ( top left)is the largest stadium in France and the stadium where the French national team plays its most important home matches. It has an 80.000 capacity. St Dennis ,ParisStade de France got built to serve as the centrepiece of the 1998 World Cup. At that time no stadium in France had a capacity of over 45,000 and the tournament needed a 70,000+ stadium.Stade Vélodrome (top right)was built to serve as a playing venue for the 1938 World Cup, and it soon became the new home of Olympique de Marseille capacity 67,000Grand Stade OL, is the currently under-construction new stadium of Olympique Lyonnais ( Lyon) and as such will replace Stade Gerland as their permanent home. Capacity 58,000Stade Pierre Mauroy Lille capacity 50,000Parc de Princes was built to provide the city of Paris with a modern venue for important rugby and football matches. The stadium replaced the old Vélodrome, that had stood in its place since 1897.It has a capacity of 48,527 and is the home of Paris Saint Germain FCNouveau Stade de Bordeaux is the planned new stadium of Girondins de Bordeaux Construction was expected to start in 2012, but the project was subject to severe criticism of local citizens who objected against the high costs, estimated to be €166 million and for 50% financed with public money, and lawsuits delayed the start of works. Capacity 42,000Stade Geoffroy-Guichard ( bottom right ) home of AS Saint-Etienne Capacity: 41,500 seatsThe Allianz Riviera, earlier referred to as Nice Eco Stadium and Grand Stade de Nice, is the recently opened new stadium of OGC Nice. capacity 35,624Stade Bollaert Delelis, earlier known as Stade Félix-Bollaert, officially opened in 1934 after a two-year construction period. Lens capacity 41,233Stadium de Toulouse ( bottom left ) was built in 1937. One year later, at the 1938 World Cup, it hosted the match and rematch between Cuba and Romania in the first round of the tournament. Toulouse capacity 35,472

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Sarajevo

Zenica