Living A Holistic & Healthy Life In Belgrade As An American Expat

When I first moved to Belgrade, Serbia, I couldn’t have imagined how much this vibrant city would transform my life—inside and out. As an American expat who spent a decade traveling and living abroad, I’ve always sought a sense of belonging. Yet, it wasn’t until I arrived in Belgrade that I discovered something deeper: a space to embrace my beauty, prioritize my health, and live a truly holistic life.

In this blog post, I’m sharing my personal journey of how living in Belgrade helped me bloom. From the welcoming culture to the accessible lifestyle, Serbia’s capital has been a haven for self-discovery and transformation.

The Shift: From Feeling Invisible to Embracing My Beauty

Growing up in the United States, I struggled with self-esteem. I often felt invisible in a culture that emphasized perfection—perfect teeth, flawless hair, and curated appearances. Despite my best efforts, I never felt like I measured up. It wasn’t until I moved abroad that I realized I’d been carrying these insecurities with me.

Belgrade changed all of that. When I arrived, I was struck by the people here—tall, confident, and effortlessly stylish. At first, it was intimidating. Walking into places like Lafayette, I was in awe of how well-dressed and poised everyone appeared. But instead of feeling out of place, I felt inspired. For the first time, I saw beauty as something accessible, not unattainable. I began to invest in myself—not just in how I looked but in how I felt.

Accessible Health and Wellness in Belgrade

One of the most incredible things about living in Belgrade is how easy and affordable it is to live a healthy lifestyle.

Take food, for example. Grocery stores here are filled with fresh, locally sourced produce at prices that won’t break the bank. My mornings start with a simple yet nourishing breakfast: oatmeal topped with fresh fruits like kiwi or berries. It’s a ritual that sets the tone for my day and reminds me how easy it is to make healthy choices here.

Fitness is another cornerstone of my life in Belgrade. I’ve joined Dream Body Works, a ladies-only gym that provides a supportive and empowering environment. Working with a personal trainer has been a game-changer, helping me build strength, improve my posture, and feel more confident in my body. After a workout, the gym’s sauna offers a moment of relaxation and self-care—a reminder that health isn’t just physical but mental as well.

Walkability and Connection to Nature

One of the things I love most about Belgrade is how walkable it is. I haven’t owned a car in over a decade, and in Belgrade, I don’t need one. Whether I’m heading to the gym, picking up groceries, or meeting friends for coffee, I can walk almost anywhere. Not only does this keep me active, but it also allows me to soak in the city’s energy and charm.

Belgrade also has plenty of green spaces where you can connect with nature. From Kalemegdan Park to Ada Ciganlija, there are countless spots to unwind, go for a jog, or simply enjoy the fresh air. These spaces have become my refuge, a place to reset and recharge.

The Importance of Community

Living a healthy, holistic life isn’t just about food or fitness—it’s also about community. Belgrade’s expat and local circles are incredibly welcoming. Whether I’m attending a networking event, hosting a tea party, or simply chatting with new friends at a café, I’ve found a sense of connection here that’s deeply fulfilling.

Serbian culture places a strong emphasis on relationships. People here take the time to enjoy meals together, have long conversations, and genuinely connect. This focus on meaningful interactions has taught me to slow down and appreciate the moment—a crucial aspect of holistic living.

Beauty Beyond the Surface

Perhaps the most transformative part of my journey has been redefining what beauty means to me. In the U.S., I often felt like my crooked teeth or less-than-perfect appearance were barriers to success. In Belgrade, those insecurities melted away. Here, beauty is about confidence, self-care, and authenticity. It’s about presenting yourself in a way that feels true to who you are.

Investing in my wardrobe, experimenting with new hairstyles, and even stepping up my skincare routine have been empowering. But more than that, I’ve learned to see beauty as something holistic—a combination of how you look, how you feel, and how you carry yourself in the world.

Final Thoughts

Belgrade has given me the gift of self-discovery. It’s a city that’s allowed me to embrace my beauty, prioritize my health, and live a life that feels balanced and fulfilling. From its walkable streets to its affordable wellness options, Belgrade offers the perfect environment for anyone looking to transform their lifestyle.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re not enough or that you’ve been living in the wrong place, I encourage you to consider a fresh start. Sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery to realize the beauty and potential that’s been within you all along.