Language
Albanian is the official language of Kosovo, although many young locals can converse in English, German or Italian. Those working in the tourism industry will know at least one of those three European languages.
Currency
Although Kosovo is not yet a member of the European Union, the euro is their currency, although the Serbian dinar is also accepted in the four northern municipalities. Money can be exchanged at banks and licensed Forex offices, and ATMs can be found in Pristina, but are scarce elsewhere. Generally, Kosovo operates a cash economy, although some hotels and upscale restaurants will accept major credit cards.
Time
Kosovo lies in the Central European Time Zone, one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +1). Daylight saving time operates during the summer so there is a period when local time is two hours ahead of GMT (GMT +2).
Electricity
Kosovo’s electricity comes as 220V/50Hz, with sockets using plugs with two round pins. Visitors from the US will need a transformer, and most visitors will need a plug adapter.
Communications
The dialing code for Kosovo is +377, followed by an area code and a six-digit phone number. Cell phones here operate on the GSM networks provided by PTK and IPKO, and coverage is generally good. Visitors whose mobile devices are on other frequencies will need to get them unlocked in order to use pre-paid Kosovan SIM cards.
Duty-free
Duty-free allowances for visitors to Kosovo include: 200 cigarettes, one liter of spirits, two liters of wine, and 50 g of perfume. For those heading back home, duty-free allowances vary, with the US allowing the import of: 200 cigarettes, one liter of alcohol and gifts up to a value of US $400.
Tourist Office
There is no central tourism office in Pristina as yet.
Consulates in Kosovo
US Consulate, Pristina: +381-38-549-890
British Consulate, Pristina: +381-38-254-700
Australian Embassy, Vienna: +43-1-506-7400
Canadian Embassy, Zagreb: +385-1-488-1200
Emergency
Emergency services: 112