Sombor, a charming city in northern Serbia, is a hidden gem that’s rich in culture, history, and a warm community spirit. To give us an insider’s look, we invited Svetlana Kalajdzic, an English teacher at a local primary school, to share her insights. Svetlana, a graduate of the College of English Language and Literature at the University of Novi Sad, has been teaching English in Sombor for five years and brings a wealth of knowledge about the city and its unique offerings for visitors and TESOL teachers alike.
A Must-Experience Event: Exit Festival
Shelly: Which event is a must for visitors?
Svetlana: Visitors absolutely must attend the Exit Festival.
Originally launched as a student movement in 2000, the Exit Festival has grown to become one of Europe’s largest music festivals, held annually in the nearby Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad. With its eclectic lineup, including rock, electronic, reggae, and pop acts, it’s an event that attracts thousands of music lovers from across the world. The festival is not only a celebration of music but also a testament to Serbia’s vibrant, youth-driven culture. For TESOL teachers, the festival offers a chance to connect with locals and students in a relaxed setting, practicing conversational English while enjoying an unforgettable cultural experience.
Sombor’s Favorite Dish: Burek
Shelly: What is a popular local dish?
Svetlana: Burek is very popular here.
Burek is a beloved pastry in Serbia and the Balkans, made of flaky, layered phyllo dough filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or spinach. Burek’s warm, savory layers make it a breakfast staple, often enjoyed with a cup of yogurt on the side. It’s a cultural symbol of Serbian hospitality, as sharing food plays an important role in daily life. For TESOL teachers, asking students about their favorite dishes and family recipes like burek can create meaningful discussions and introduce new vocabulary in a way that feels familiar and engaging for learners.
Engaging Students in Learning: Reading About Famous People
Shelly: Describe an activity your English learners enjoy!
Svetlana: My students love reading about famous people.
Incorporating the stories of famous people into lessons can make language learning more relatable for young students. By reading about athletes, actors, inventors, or historical figures, students are exposed to real-life examples of English usage while expanding their vocabulary and understanding of sentence structure. Svetlana has found that students engage more when they can discuss and relate to the lives of others. She often follows up readings with activities like role-plays or small group discussions, allowing students to practice their language skills in a fun and dynamic way.
About Sombor: A Hidden Gem for TESOL Teachers
Sombor is a serene city known for its tree-lined streets, art scene, and peaceful ambiance. It’s an ideal place for TESOL teachers looking to immerse themselves in Serbian culture. The city’s blend of traditional Serbian charm and modern touches make it an inspiring setting for teaching. While living in Sombor, TESOL teachers can enjoy a slower pace of life, surrounded by nature, museums, and the welcoming local community.
A Big Thank You to Svetlana!
Svetlana Kalajdzic, an English teacher with a background in English Language and Literature from the University of Novi Sad, has been teaching in Sombor for five years. Her dedication to education and to sharing her culture shines through in her approach to teaching and her passion for helping students connect with the English language in meaningful ways.
For TESOL educators considering Serbia, Sombor offers a welcoming community, rich cultural experiences, and the chance to truly make an impact in students’ lives. From the Exit Festival to savoring burek and fostering a love for language, Sombor is a place where both teachers and students thrive.
