Meet a Local: Danica Jankovic

In our column Meet a Local we present interesting individuals from different professional
fields living in Belgrade. The idea is to get to know some locals and their favorite neighborhoods and venues in the city.

Please introduce yourself to our readers:

Hello everyone! My name is Danica Jankovic, and I have lived in Belgrade all my life. This beautiful and exciting capital city is my home.

One of the things that makes me happy and fulfilled is my extensive experience in babysitting. Working with children has always been a part of my life, and from that experience, I have learned countless lessons about love, patience, and the joy that children bring into our lives.

Throughout my journey, I have successfully balanced babysitting with engaging in various artistic projects. The magic of creativity and the joy that comes from collaborating with artists always appealed to me. The sense of fulfillment I experience in that creative world is irreplaceable and not only serves as inspiration but also fuels me to continue my journey through life. Through artistic projects, I feel free to express my ideas and emotions, and each creative adventure contributes significantly to my personal and professional development. I believe that this harmony between babysitting and art has shaped my unique perspective on the world and motivated me to strive for inner peace and balance.

One of the most exciting things for me is exploring the world around me. Regardless of my age, I always have the desire to discover new things, meet new people, and uncover new shortcuts in this city. Belgrade holds something magical, hidden in every corner, and I enjoy uncovering those secrets. Each new adventure brings with it the opportunity to discover, learn, or experience something new.

Sometimes, life feels like an endless labyrinth where there is always something more to uncover. The possibility that there is always something new and exciting for us is what makes life worth living. And so, I continue to explore, learn, and grow because there is always something waiting to be discovered.

Belgrade is my home, babysitting is my heart, art is my soul, and exploration is my driving force. I believe that life is full of wonders and challenges, and I am ready to greet each day with a smile, open eyes, and an open heart. After all, who knows what else can be discovered?

Has there been a new project lately?

In my life, there is always something simmering, both on a personal and professional level. To my delight, thanks to Maki (who can be a bit of a goof), I have learned the art of knitting and now do it occasionally for my inner peace.

However, what truly fulfills me is my professional engagement at the Saša Marčeta Foundation. I take great pride in partaking in the organization of an extraordinary exhibition featuring the young artist Matilde Romagnoli, scheduled to take place at the Balkan Cinema in early September. This exhibition promises to be an unforgettable artistic experience, showcasing Matilde’s unique talent and creativity to the visitors. Being part of this project and contributing to the cultural scene in such an inspirational way is truly exciting. I can hardly wait to witness the visitors’ reactions and see Matilda shine in her artistic brilliance!

What do you like about Belgrade?

Belgrade is a city that captivates the heart for various reasons. What I particularly enjoy about Belgrade is the opportunity to stroll its streets with ease and pleasure, regardless of its size. Experiencing the morning atmosphere is my favorite, as the city slowly awakens, and the freshness and silence contribute to a beautiful and unique experience.

I am thrilled by the diversity of Belgrade, and its many hidden corners worth exploring. The people are kind and charming, which adds a special sense of warmth to the city. Belgrade’s history is rich and fascinating, and every step through its streets evokes a connection to the past.

Despite being a vibrant urban center, I also appreciate the little greenery it offers, providing an opportunity for relaxation and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I enjoy walks by the river and in the parks, which bring me tranquility.

I cannot fail to mention Belgrade Fortress, proudly rising above the city, representing the symbol of its history and culture. I am fascinated by the contrast between the Eastern and Western gates, each with its own story and character.

Belgrade has a unique, coquettish charm that cannot be described in words but must be experienced. This city has something that attracts you, something that makes you fall in love with it all over again every time you visit. Belgrade is unique and special, and it will always be one of my favorite places in the world.

Where do you like to go out?

When it comes to nightlife, although I’ve reduced my frequent visits to clubs, I still enjoy occasionally heading to the gem of Belgrade’s club scene – Club Drugstore. Its unique charm and atmosphere always draw me in because the love for it is simply palpable.

I also have other favorite places like Club Dim, April, Ljubimac, and Zaokret, where I consistently find great music and a refreshing, positive energy that refreshes me.

Cetinjska Street has that magical power to always lure you back again and again. Its diverse offering of nightlife venues always delights me, providing different experiences no matter how many times I’ve visited.

Even though I’ve cut down on clubbing, I love spending time in local cafes. Belgrade offers a rich selection of charming cafes where I can relax, enjoy a coffee or a refreshing drink, and socialize with friends.

Name 3 of your favorite restaurants in the city.

Of course! Here are three favorite restaurants in town:

• Mezorestoran dvorište: This restaurant offers an authentic experience of enjoying a diverse and delicious selection of mezze dishes, in a pleasant atmosphere filled with warmth and hospitality.

• Smokvica: Not only does this restaurant delight with high-quality and tasty dishes, but it also boasts a beautiful ambiance with a focus on intricate details. Smokvica provides a unique gourmet experience.

• Trattoria Campania: In this restaurant, you can indulge in the charms of Italian cuisine and savor authentic specialties prepared by skilled artisans. Trattoria Campania creates unforgettable moments for all Italian food enthusiasts.

Each of these restaurants has its own charm and uniqueness, making them a must-visit destination for all food lovers seeking a delightful dining experience in a pleasant environment.

Where do you drink coffee?

Mostly at home, sometimes in Tri.

Where do you spend your leisure time?

During the summer, I mostly spend time somewhere close to the river. However, when the weather turns colder or during home gatherings, I like to go to Samo Pivo or Dim, Zaokret.

Name your 3 favorite locations in Belgrade and justify your choice.

My three favorite locations in Belgrade are the Botanical Garden, Balkan Cinema, and New Belgrade.

• The Botanical Garden is one of my favorite places due to its abundant green vegetation. I have beautiful memories of going there with my grandfather, who would take me and tell me stories about plants. It’s where I learned to walk, and it always provides peace and tranquility amidst the hustle of the city. The Botanical Garden is a nature oasis for me, always bringing happiness.

• Balkan Cinema is one of my favorite places, and now it’s also my workplace. The building exudes its splendid history and rich cultural heritage. I am sure it will continue to be so for future generations. Balkan Cinema is a symbol of art that constantly inspires and leaves me in awe. Working at this place is an honor and gives me the opportunity to be part of its rich history.

• New Belgrade is also one of my favorite locations because of its fascinating architecture. I am in awe of the Palace of Serbia (SIV) building, which has its unique beauty and symbolizes strength and significance. Additionally, the Museum of Contemporary Art in New Belgrade is an incredibly inspiring place for me, showcasing diverse artistic forms and providing new experiences. Moreover, I cannot overlook the beautiful Genex Tower, which has become a symbol of Belgrade. All these iconic buildings make New Belgrade an irresistible and distinctive part of the city.