top of page

Handy Hints

Visa & Travel Requirements

Do Australians Need a Visa?

  • No, Australians do not need a visa for short stays in Bosnia & Herzegovina or Croatia (less than 90 days within a 180-day period).

  • You must have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond your return date.
     

Do I Need Proof of Vaccination?

Currently, there are no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for entry into Bosnia & Herzegovina or Croatia.

 

Currency & Money 

  • The preferred currency is Euro (€), though US Dollars ($) are also accepted.

  • Carry small denominations (€5, €10, €20), as not all places can provide change for larger notes.

  • The current exchange rate is around €0.60 EUR to $1.00 AUD, but this may change.

  • Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but some small vendors and donation sites prefer cash.
     

ATMs & Cash Withdrawals

  • There is one ATM in Medjugorje, but it only dispenses the local Bosnia & Herzegovina currency (Konvertibilna marka - BAM).

  • BAM can be used in Medjugorje, but it’s difficult to exchange back outside Bosnia, so only withdraw what you need.
     

Daily Cash on Hand

  • We suggest €20-40 per day for:

    • Meals, snacks, and drinks

    • Souvenirs and religious items

    • Donations or offerings

    • Taxis (€5 per ride)
       

That said, food and drinks in Medjugorje are very affordable, and portions are generous!
 

Travelling Through Split Airport (Croatia)

  • Croatia now uses the Euro (€) instead of Kuna.

  • Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and restaurants.
     

Travel Insurance

While we pray for a safe and smooth journey, we highly recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance before departure.

  • Your insurance should cover:

    • Medical emergencies

    • Trip cancellations

    • Lost or delayed luggage

    • Accidents or injuries
       

Unexpected things do happen—better to be covered just in case!
 

Tipping Guidelines

  • Tipping is customary for guides, house staff, and bus drivers.
     

  • To make it easy, we have already collected the minimum expected tips on your behalf:

    • Guide (Miki): €30

    • Household Staff: €30

    • Bus Driver: €10 (for 2 bus trips)
       

  • If you would like to give extra, you are welcome to do so at the end of the pilgrimage—this is appreciated but not expected.
     

Getting Around Medjugorje

  • We will be staying close to Apparition Hill, about a 25-30 minute walk to St. James Church.

  • Many pilgrims enjoy the peaceful walk through vineyards, taking in the breathtaking scenery.

  • If you prefer not to walk, taxis are available at a flat rate of €5 per ride.
     

Practical Travel Tips

Power Adaptors & Charging

  • Medjugorje uses the European 2-pin plug (Type C or F, 220V).

  • Bring a travel adapter so you can charge your devices.
     

Wi-Fi & Mobile Data

  • Wi-Fi is available at our accommodation.

  • If using mobile data, check your international roaming plan before travelling.
     

Drinking Water

  • The local water in Medjugorje is safe to drink, but some people prefer bottled water due to different minerals.

  • Bottled water is inexpensive and widely available.

     

What to Pack

  • Comfortable walking shoes (for Apparition Hill & Cross Mountain)

  • A warm jacket (evenings can be chilly)

  • A light rain poncho or small umbrella

  • A small backpack (for water, sunscreen, and personal items)

  • A flashlight (for night walks)

  • Hand wipes and travel tissues

  • A hat and sunscreen
     

Recommended: Pack one full outfit and essential medications in your carry-on in case your luggage is delayed.

 

Hot Drinking Water

  • Please note that there is no kettle provided in your room for safety reasons.

  • If you enjoy warm or hot water in the evening, we recommend bringing a thermos with you. A hot water urn will be available at lunchtime each day, and you can fill your thermos at that time to enjoy a hot tea or drink later in your room as part of your nightly routine.
     

Weather & Time Difference

April Weather in Medjugorje

  • Days are mild (around 17°C), but evenings can get chilly (around 7°C).

  • A warm jacket is recommended, especially for the evening program at St. James Church.
     

Time Difference (April Pilgrimage)

  • Medjugorje is:

    • 8 hours behind Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane

    • 7.5 hours behind Adelaide

    • 6 hours behind Perth

​

Medications & Health Precautions

  • Keep all medications in your carry-on bag—do not check them in your suitcase.

  • Prescription medications are difficult to obtain in Medjugorje, so bring enough for your whole trip.

  • If you wear glasses or contact lenses, pack a spare pair just in case.
     

Laundry Services

  • There is no on-site laundry at our accommodation.

  • A coin-operated laundromat is about 30 walk away (€5 taxi ride).

  • We suggest packing enough clothes for the entire pilgrimage to avoid needing laundry services.
     

If you need to wash clothes, speak to Angeline & David, and they may be able to arrange a laundry day.
 

Maps of Medjugorje
Evening International Prayer Program

  • The International Prayer Program at St. James Church runs every evening from 5pm to 8pm in the large outdoor area. 

  • 5-6pm Rosary, 6-7pm Holy Mass, 7-8 either Adoration or Veneration of the Cross

  • You can listen in English by:

    • Buying a small radio (€10) at No.1 Souvenir Shop

    • Using your phone’s FM radio (if your data plan allows it)

    • Hiring a radio from St James official, they are slightly better quality. 

​

bottom of page