Our man Bills is off to the Balkans

MyWelshpool columnist John Bills is off on his travels again and starting today will be keeping us informed about his movements in the Balkans.

Thus begins another summer of Eastern European joy, a summer of giving people the worst history lessons they could possibly receive and a summer of bowling. The usual, you know.

For those of you who aren't aware, my name is John Bills and I spend my summers out in the Balkans. Last year I did a little bit of a blog for this glorious website, and it would seem I am to do the same this year.

Whereas last year I spent the majority of time in Mostar, this summer it would seem I'll be in Belgrade for the longest time. A good friend of mine recently purchased a hostel there, so I'll most likely give her a helping hand in pushing that on its way. Well, maybe, we'll probably just sit on the balcony the entire time. Who knows.

But I'm getting ahead of myself. I'm currently sat in Olomouc, in the eastern half of the Czech Republic. I first came here in the winter of 2008, and loved it so much that it kinda ruined the rest of my travel plans as I stayed here for about 10 days.

You've all heard of Prague right? The gem of Eastern Europe, a historical city with some beautiful architecture, great beer, hearty food and new surprises around every corner? Well, Olomouc is just like that, except it feels way more personal and it isn't choc full of 50% tourists and 50% people catering purely for the tourist.

Olomouc gives you everything you want from Prague but wrapped in the most genuine Czech shell. I'm loathe to resort to cliches, but Olomouc is probably the definition of undiscovered gem.

We've been here a couple of days now, and everything I loved about it the first time has surfaced a second. Not only that, but the hostel that we're staying in has succeeded once again.

Eastern Europe is choc full of great hostels with travel-minded staff who are easy to talk to and a lot of fun to be around. I like to think that I quality as one of the above in the Balkans.

Anyway, the first time I came to Olomouc I got on brilliantly with a young Aussie named Jess from the very start. More on that another time, but upon arrival here Eric and I met the helper, a chap called David.

Dave is from Canada, and is definitely in the list of instant classics. As laid back a chap as you could meet, with a killer sense of humour.

Another winner from Olomouc. The hostel is fantastic as well. It is called Poet's Corner, and it has a similar town monopoly to Majda's in Mostar. I have literally never met someone who stayed somewhere else in this town.

The living room is full of old furniture, the balcony has a great view of the city, and they have so many little things that make a big difference to the traveller. Cheap rental of bikes? Clothes swap? Really informative local guides? Timetables? Comfy beds? This place is fantastic. Another great reason to head to Olomouc.

 I can't stay here forever however, I've got a Balkans to frolic around in. Today will be the first bowling competition of the summer, as well as a visit to a brewery and oh so much more backgammon.

Yeah, thats right, backgammon. Me and Eric learnt to play it in Brno, and it's actually a fantastic game. Learn it, we'll play when I get back.