LAST TANGO IN PARIS 

That morning, when I open the web mail, my attention was attracted one letter: "CongratulationsTridesetogodišnjica marriage! "There was no signature, based on web addresses I could not conclude who it was sent. However, its content was true: for the next two weeks turns the full thirty years of living together, and I completely forgot that fact. While I studied the contents of Internet mail, the house was entered Branka. 

"Imagine what happened this morning at the market! As I stood in front of stalls and purchased fruit, approach like a woman and come to love me, as we know that for many years. I ustuknem before it and view is that I recognized a familiar face to me, and she grleći me, push me in his arms a bouquet white roses. Query is why we give flowers, and she answered that it was for the happiness of my marriage ... Confused, I received flowers ... " 

"And what you told her? Have you thanked her? " 

"No, I was totally driven crazy ... However, while I climbed the stairs to the apartment, remember I have something very important. Do you know that we will soon full thirty years since we married? " 

"Yes, here, I just got e-mail that reminded me of it! But still I was not clear who it to me sent. Who even knows our anniversary? You are still working on someone's joking. " 

Branka look at a computer screen, studying the Internet address from which the letter was sent.

Perhaps these signs: e-mail and a bouquet of flowers, still entail a sort of message ... You know, something I senses ... Thirty years ago, if you remember, we are a long promised that we will, if you endure together, Tridesetogodišnjica marriage where we celebrate it and start - in Paris. It is full thirty years, and I have a strong desire to go back and see this wonderful city. " 

"I remember, and I promise our ... However, know themselves to last more than fifteen years we we were outside the country. How do you think to get a visa? Who can we invite to come to Paris? " 

"Oh you just omatoreo and otupeo! Are you a lifetime to spend in this hole, between four walls, staring at your computer? I'm going tomorrow to travel agencies to inquire about arrangements for Paris! " 

The next day the Branka returned from town with less enthusiasm than they had the day before.

"So this is really outrageous! You can travel in Paris by travel agencies, however, visa I need to arrange. I was in the French embassy, where they told me with the request for a visa I have to attach the invitation was sent to me from France, certified by a notary, with the one you call called to donate their property card: the amount of

monthly income, proof of ownership square meters apartment with registered, proof against him is not built court proceedings, to pay Tax ... and who knows what more ... " 

"Forget the stupidity, the next day I go to the embassy, I will certainly give you a visa?", I answered confidently. 

The next day I was already eight in front of the Embassy. The street is tiskala crowd. 

"Are you all waiting for a visa?", I asked the young man who was last in a long line. 

»All." 

"And when he formed this line?" 

"This morning early, in four hours." 

"This morning? When? " 

While I was trying to be pushed in the line of those waiting, I approached the security guy, briefly podšišan, built up. 

"Hey, you! Exit out of order! " 

"Why?" 

"You left the car parked in the wrong place!" 

»What is this wrong? I found a free place, where the

marked parking lot. " 

"Yes, but this is the embassy parking lot!" 

"But it is not written ..." 

"Nevertheless, it is the embassy parking lot." 

"Sorry, where can I park?" 

"There, around the corner." 

While I preparkirao car line is increased to twenty people who are newcomers to the waiting street in front of the embassy. After two-three hours of my waiting on the street, the door appeared that the same guy from security to all of us say no more waiting, as is now finished answering documents. Who wants, can come tomorrow, at the same time. 

Frustrated and tired, I went to the car. When opening the door, catch me in the left hand. Soon I realized that my car was broken into. Bag which I left in, was taken. 

"Oh this is definitely one guy from work security. They do this in collusion with the burglar, sendowners to park the car in the area outside the view of passers and then invite thieves to both, "I thought. "Only, you will not take it so easy, guys," stegnuh teeth and uputih according Embassy. At the door stood one guy from the same built-

up security. His approach: 

"Just to know, I know who I obio car!" I said to him, looking him right in the eyes. 

"No matter what lupetaš, fool! Away from the entrance! Paaa! " 

All day I kept silent as watered. Branka I said that we Obili car and took a set of leather bag that I bought it for a birthday. 

The next day I was early. In front of the embassy, I was already five hours. A little before noon, I came on line. I have entered the embassy building. 

The counter is small, sitting, black, skinny women with huge glasses. 

"Give me your documentation," showed the hand to me. 

"But I Cry no documentation ... I came to see what we need to get tourist visa for the trip to Paris ... You know, I and my wife want to go for a weekend in Paris. " 

"Everything you write on the board." 

"I see and I, however, I do not have anyone in France who would have called me to come to Paris." 

"Where are you employed?" 

"I am an architect, a free artist. Prior to about twenty,

twenty-five years I had an exhibition in Paris ... I got today from the exhibition catalog, can you bring it ... " 

»Free metnik? That means unemployed. Paris? Exhibition? In this case, contact your first Ministry of Culture. " 

"What does a Ministry of Culture with my trip to Paris?" 

"Next!" 

"But will you tell me how to get a visa?" 

"Next! Sleeedeći! " 

While I was confused and resigned out into the street, someone I withdraw the sleeve. It was one guy from security with which I had a contest yesterday regarding the burglary of my car. 

»Pst! Pst! Come here to tell you something! " 

"Me?" 

"Yes, you! Will you a visa for France? " 

"Of course, that's why I came here." 

"Give me a passport! I'll arrange a visa. How many visas? Two? " 

"How?" 

"Ma do anything you ask. How much money you have? Daćeš we četrsto euros for two visas. " 

»Četrsto euros? Well I have so much. " 

"What you got?" 

"Let me see, I have a hundred." 

"Give two hundred." 

"When you come to the visa?"   "Come tomorrow morning." 

The next day I was already in front of six embassies. My boyfriend of security was not anywhere, and I to eat in it that I allow me re nasamari. 

Suddenly, he appears at the door, with the insurgency passport. He began to read and share the surname passports those who received visas. Finally, the order and come to me. 

»Free ...«, read the guy's Official. 

"Yes, I am!", Happily took the passports. 

However, immediately when I opened my passport, I saw a big blue stamp hit obliquely through the whole of which was affixed Schengen visa. 

»What is this?" I asked a guy. 

"And, yes! I tell you, they refused the visa. This was a seal that proclaims your visa invalid. " 

"Invalid?" 

"You know what, old! Are you broke? Be happy that you do not go to jail for this. And I am due You could lose my job. You like that do not understand that I am a man of confidence in the embassy, Head of security, and you tried to get a visa fraud! Are you aware that you violated French law? " 

"And my money?" 

"What money?" 

"Yes, now we all clearly. And what a car burglary yesterday, was no accident. And I thought that I Tridesetogodišnjica marriage to take his wife for a weekend in Paris. " 

"But, you may have a solution for you. Did you really want to go to Paris? " 

"Yes." 

Built-up guy I retire the side. 

"Listen to me carefully," said the quiet voice, "after hours, five hours, he went to the cafe 

around the corner. Wait, Mrs. Juliette. It will explain to you how you can otputuješ in Paris ". 

»Who is Juliette?" 

"This is the small, black woman with enormous glasses, who works at the counter. Now fire! " 

With impatience I received five hours. In the agreed place, I sat in a cafe for a small table placed against the wall. The gate appeared Mrs Juliette. 

"Hello," rose from the chair. 

"Good day. You are free? " 

"Yes." 

"And, yes, you are the one unemployed artist, who wants to go for a weekend in Paris!" 

"Yeah. And you tell me how. " 

"Here, like this. Once in two weeks traveling the official truck of the Embassy to Paris. Carries mail, but can also connect two people. Everything is completely legal, because you'll drive the diplomatic vehicle, which means that no one will ask for a passport or any other document to enter European Union. Trucks go on Thursdays and returns on Tuesdays. The guy from the embassy who drives truck will bring you to the hotel in Paris, where you will no trouble if you do not have Schengen passport visa. " 

"It sounds very serious and attractive. Only, you have to put one more question, and it's ... " 

"I know already. The question is how much it will cost you. " 

"Yes." 

"You know, this service is strictly confidential and risky by the staff of the French Embassy. If anyone learned that the official truck of the Embassy Serbs smuggled to France, it would be a scandal.You must to understand me. Also, you have to remember that I've ever met and talked with me about this. A price, a thousand euros per person. " 

"Au! Just a lot. ", Otrže my voice from stegnutog throat. 

"Much?" 

"Can you less?" 

"And how much you are willing to pay?" 

"Well, say nine hundred euros." 

»Agreed. Only has one small thing. You will be with you in the truck will be two more persons ... " 

"Ma could not care less! Just to come to Paris. " 

"The money you give me, in advance. Departure is next Thursday, in front of the hotel "Nacional". " 

Ustajući the table, we finally became clear the whole game about breaking my car, and above all, it is about giving and nullifying the Brankinom Schengen visa and my passport ... 

Branko and I are not able to welcome the next Thurs We packed four days. In those days, we two, we lived in some form of conspiracy. We told anyone to go for a weekend in Paris, but We have only indicated that we will celebrate the anniversary of the marriage probably stay a few days cottage, with barbecue and wine. Among us, we hoped that it will serve us well on the road timewhich should be the basis of good fun in the city of light. 

Came the long-awaited Thurs Exactly the agreed time, we were in the parking lot in front of hotel"Nacional", waiting for the truck appears the French Embassy. However, none yet was. After half an hour we were already very impatient, and then entered into our fear. 

"This is a classic setup," said Branko. "It is expected to appear in the police and arrest us here the parking lot. " 

"I do not tell nonsense! All that appears the police with any charges and any evidence to us arrested? ", I tried to let himself calm down. 

After an hour delay before we can stop a cold store with a French registration plates. From cabin jump small, black, unshaven driver. 

"Are you from the Embassy?" He asked us in French. 

»Embassy? What embassy? " 

"You are traveling in Europe?" 

Soon we were clear on what the truck does. 

"Yes, we travel through the French Embassy in Europe!" 

"I am Abdul," show the driver. »Upadajte!" 

Abdul opened the door to the back of the refrigerated crates. The truck was full of pallets of goods. Branka I ustuknusmo. 

"Do not be afraid! In the warm. I have set up sleeping bags. There are also bags for writing. You'll be comfortable. While prespavate, we have already arrived! " 

"No matter what you talk to? I am not getting into any kind of cold! Agreement of waste, and you return us the money! " 

"No matter what kind of money!", Dreknu Abdul. "You enter in, and I now move!" 

»What can we do?", I said Branco. "The money we certainly no one will return." 

»Izem you and France and Paris! What we are two old fools! Jump in, now no longer 

return! ", dreknu Branka. 

Uskočismo faster better in the truck, and for us with the Treska closed doors. The truck's coffin was completely dark. 

"I want out!" He cried, and began to strongly to thump on the door. However, there was no response. Abdul zaturirao machine is already going on the road. 

»Black Bobo, what are we to do now! Well, we kidnapped! Who knows, pobiće us somewhere along the way, " Branka wept. 

"If he wanted to kidnap us, first we would take a personal document. I do not worry nothing ", as usual, I began to pametujem that, "on the first landing will rob the truck door and escape". 

"Do not zanosiš! Help me find a flashlight. " 

When we illuminate the interior of a small lamp light trucks, we are able to analyze space where we are. It was the interior which were stacked kojekakve boxes until ceiling. However, it was not some kind of commercial goods, but rather it was things that were part of a migration: in addition to furniture, there were in the book, and Clothing. In Anyway, it was not on the commercial transport truck, but we found the middle one's moving. 

In the corner, in the depths of space, the sense of one's groan. Uperih flashlight in that direction.On the floor, the sleeping bag, two sleeping boys. Thin, black, unshaven, ruffled. At first glance, it was clear that there are in this truck a lot longer than us. Under the light of torches, One pridiže the elbows and looked in our direction, we mahnuvši hand. 

"Who are you?" He asked. 

"Wi, Wi, bonžur," answered the young man to me. 

"I'm Bob," he said. »Bo - ba. Do you understand? " 

"Wi, Wi. Gary! Ga - Ri! Ga - Ri! " 

"Gary?, As well as one from the British series" Only Fools and Horses ", is zakikota Branka. 

The young man began to cereka. His laughter and wake the other. Soon we were all four of laughter Valjala the floor trucks. 

Soon, we concluded that Gary from Turkey, and even knows a little something in Serbian. He said that Serb origin, that his ancestors came to Turkey from Serbia during the Middle Ages, and that in his family tradition of Serbian language preserved for centuries, until today. Go, says in Europe, try to find a job. For Abdullah said that the Moroccan, honest man and that we should have trust in him. Abdul this job for a long time and more professional and none fell in the police 

hands. Cooperate with the French Embassy and it gives him security pass at the border. 

After meeting with Gary, the two of us were slowly returned to peace and tranquility. We realized that found in bezizlaznoj situation and to us it is best to simply fate and wait for tomorrow, when, hopefully, this will be a difficult night far behind us. The truck jezdio put Europe unabated speed, leaving behind razlokane highway Balkans. We have slowly crept into our sleeping bags and plunged into a dream. 

When I awoke, I looked at the clock on your mobile phone. Showed twelve hours. Although the morning, but away in our truck was still dark. Pridigao I was in that moment I saw a hole in the door through which he entered a small ray of light. Branka was asleep, and Gary is something to eat. Our truck moved the established rate. 

All four are long and quiet sleepyhead, almost hibernirali, wrapped in a warm sleeping bags. 

When the trip has become unbearably long, the truck stopped. Together with the sound truck engine that is still working, we heard the door open and steps cab driver who was approached door in the rear end of the truck. The door opened, and we instinctively covered his eyes with hands, defending from the sudden flash of light that bathed the interior of the crate truck. Before the door was Abdul. 

  "We arrived! Out! Hurry! Hurry!, "Cried Abdul. 

Though stiff from the cold, we all picked up the luggage in an instant and stick out on the asphalt parking lot that has stopped the truck. While we Branka and I checked our case, we are coming down while in gear thrown from the truck, Abdul has already closed the door of his cab and continued the road. 

The parking lot was not anybody but us four blind passengers. From the side, along the parking lot, stretched highway, which are at full speed moving vehicles. We four stood in wonder watching environment, not realizing where it actually is.   "Where is the toilet? I enrolled Live! ", Branka ran towards the box located next to the parking lot. 

Gary and his buddy suddenly gave the race, but not the highway, but over the field, straight the settlement that naziralo in the distance.   I sedoh the case, instincts blindly shirt pocket where they were passports and money.Napipavši them, I felt relief. Branka escape from the toilet. 

"Where is this Paris?," She said. 

"I have no idea. Let's go to the highway to see where we are. "   The first thing I noticed, were the strange license plates

on cars that were passing car way. Surely it were tables of Paris. Also, it did not license plates France. 

"You know what, all it seems to me that we do not find in France!", Uzviknuh shocked. "He has left us oaf in the Netherlands! See license plates, we are in Holland! " 

»Tupavče one puddingy!," Cried Branka, "look where you brought me! This should be our unforgettable weekend in Paris, and we are somewhere, I have no idea where, I have no idea where country! I want the house and it now! "   "You just think what will be done by one Gary, when he realized that is not in France!", I began to laugh all the hassle. 

"Gary will burst all the way! And we delivered to the Hague, the tribunal in the Hague! So our code Seselj, in visit him for the weekend! ", zaceni Branka from the laughter. 

Soon we both sat on the suitcase and laughed inarticulately. Before we stop the car. Some of the old wagon, the wheel grandmother. Open the window and speaks to us: 

»Tag! Good day! " 

"Hello." 

  »Traveling somewhere?" 

"Yes, we travel," answered Branka. 

"Where you going? In Amsterdam? " 

"Amsterdam? Not a bad idea. Yes, just go to Amsterdam. " 

»Upadajte!" 

During the ride, our grandmother was asked several times where we are, what we happened to the car, if someone has stolen us, whether to take us to the police. 

I tried to explain her situation in a clear way in which we are. However, soon I dropped from any logical explanation, because I realized that what we just more uvalilo in need. I told her that we are tourists who come from Italy, to give us the car is broken and odšlepali it in for repair, and we resolve not to lose precious time of our stay in Netherlands and Amsterdam continue to put the car rate. Grandma was obviously pleased with my explaining. 

"Do you have reserved a hotel room in Amsterdam?" Asked us. 

"We have, of course we have." 

"Where is your hotel, will take you there," grandmother was attentive. 

"In fact, we go with friends, and they will wait for us to Asterdamu on Dam Square, at the beginning Damrak Street ', setih I at the time of the ancient days when I was a student went to Amsterdam. 

"OK, then I'll leave you there," we respond significantly grandmother.   Soon we were sitting the middle of Dam Square. Some of us were crowded, people were hurriedly passed, and as one endless river, the square defilovali tourists. 

"I did not know that there are so many tourists Chinese and Indians!" I was astonished. "In my time here was the meeting place of tourists from America and Japan. On this square are sitting hippies, played on guitar and sang. The new time has brought new changes. " 

"And you tell me where we are now two of us to go. If you go to any hotel, will find us in passports of those unfortunate hallmark over Schengen visa. Will immediately bring us, and then deport back to Serbia. Who knows, maybe we'll spend the night at a police station, before being in prison. ", Branko said.   "I know the Netherlands as well as your pocket. Sometimes I spent the whole this month. One year I 

vacation with friends, Gustav ... How do you like your surname? ... He had a beautiful house in a village next to the Amsterdam, the village is called ... Parmerend to Parmerend! You know what, let's find my otherGustav! "   "So you're not normal! Who knows whether that Nana is alive and that you do live in the same village? If it and find, certainly has the family and other obligations, not to receive the house two matorih Serbs! " 

"Trust me, we'll find it there. Surprised and on, will be happy to see me after thirty years. " 

Soon we took a taxi and make the Parmerend. When we arrived, we became immediately clear that this it is no longer a village in which I used to vacation. In the center was no longer those of traditional Dutch house, built of brick. Instead, there were modern, glass building which were located in banks and shops. 

"I, where he lived that your Gus ... Heavy?", Said Branko me suspicious. 

»Šetić is ... His house is located near the center. Street called something like "Queen street ", bears the name of their queen, to come to him as the main village Judd."   Slowly I began to remember the names of the streets. However, the overall ambience of the village was

like a party. I remembered somehow that Gustav lived in number 41, in a lovely house of brown brick with predbaštom. We went to the 41st issue On the way towards the goal we encountered a block built modern buildings. 

»Gustavo house certainly does on this issue. You see that here all new built? ", Desperately Branka cried. 

When I was but I lost all hope that I will find our goal times, suddenly appeared before us I know pictures. It was Gustavo house, the number of 41st Located between buildings novoizgradjenog block, somehow seemed small and old. The facade, though dilapidated, still retained the spirit of traditional Dutch architecture. Front entrance, was parked in the old bike. While I zvonio standing on the front door, my heart was beating rapidly.   Doors opened pogureni, but still tall old man. Immediately I was attracted by his view of debt, seda, elf beard. His hair was ruffled, in long blue - sit curls. 

"Here's what you want?", We stared with astonishment. 

»Gustav, Gustav ask. You know, he lived in this house, and we thought that the house today his. ", said, confused.   "And who is required by Gustav?," Said the old man only slightly elevated tone. 

"Come now, I do not care what you can izvališ," obrecnu to me, Branko. 

"You know, sir, I once knew Gustav. Here in this house, I spent one of the beautiful summer ... I come from afar, from a small country, a country that just is not popular here in the Netherlands, and Serbia, which is called ... " 

"Bobo, you did it you?", The old man raises his head.   "I am. Did you this, Gustave? Oh, I know you're around, "suddenly fell into the arms of an old man. 

"Oh, my God, unbelievable! Simply, amazing!, "Cried Nana. "You enter the house!" 

We were not supposed to call twice to join. Happy almost uletesmo in the entrance hall, along with difficult case. 

"Gustave, Gustave, would not you recognize that you see on the street, how did you change?" 

"Neither do I recognize you. Posedeo you, beard. And this is certainly Branka. Remember, when venčavali you wrote me a long and warm letter and I responded and wished you luck in marriage! " 

"Yes, I remember. However, at the same time it was the last letter that we exchanged. Never more we told each other. "   

"I still can not believe this is the apparition!", Looked me his bright blue Gustav eyes. "This is destiny. I've always believed that in life nothing happens by accident, that all Events part of a large mosaic, which individually may not have any sense, however, represent a perfect whole ... I have to admit something to you. Over the past few weeks, either alone I do not know why, my thoughts have often been directed towards you. I remember those wonderful winter we spent skiing in Kopaonik, and later that summer when you were my guest in the Netherlands. I knew where live now or what you're doing. Written record, which led me to you was exactly what my letter which I congratulate you on the wedding. Trace with your site on the internet led me to your mail. And then, suddenly, I remembered that right now Tridesetogodišnjica your marriage. I convinced that you are still together and I wanted to congratulate you, however, I thought, what ifwrong, if your life went to some other flows? However, I wrote you e-card email, but it is not signed. I waited to see what will be further developments. However, even in their wildest dream I could not imagine that we'll both come here in Holland! " 

Branko and I got confused looking at Gustav. His voice, though elderly, zvonio is your strength, and bright eyes wandered between him, me and Branko. Finally I was clear about who we sent one e-mail. However, I could not explain myself what a circuit conditions, or it was karma, that we were headed to the Netherlands, according to

village Parmerendu, into the arms of long-forgotten friends. 

The whole night we were awake, as we traveled twenty hours in the bunker truck. Navirala are memories. 

"Remember it, Bobo, our time in India?", Said Gustav me. 

"Yes, I remember ... Just as I've never reached the Indies. "   "We went from Amsterdam to those old bus on the floor. Called the "Magic Bus", was painted inflowers, all the rainbow colors. The aim of our times was India, a time should be planned to last straight year. And now, sometimes when I go to Amsterdam, then meet some of the passengers with Our "Magic bus", although many of them died today. The drug is also a terrible thing. " 

"I remember, it was wonderful to us, and we traveled through Europe whole and twenty days.However, when we Welcome to Turkey, me are thieves in the street completely orobili. I remained without passports and money, and not any purpose to continue the road and slow down the other participants on the way to India. " 

"I stayed in India next five years. Two years I spent in the greatest poverty and misery in delirium narkotičkog between sleep and Java. When I

was already on the verge of death, I was due to one Buddhist monastery, where I slowly return to life. In the monastery I spent my most productive year. There I was writing and drawing. Unfortunately, all my works are there other. I always hope that I will back there and take them with him to the Netherlands ... But, what was your life, Bobo? " 

"My dear Gustave, I have very much what to tell you. Life as he passed by me, and I stood by as his silent observer. However, I can not say for myself that I tried. I tried, I tried hard to make something in your life. However, it is my effort was greater, life has beaten me stronger and stronger. Today, I can only regret what I did and I could, I might have a little more strength, will or time. Today, no more neither power nor time. What I want to do, leave it for next time, next life, we will perhaps be a little more friendly. " 

"A lot of pessimism!", Rebuke me Branka. 

"You are right," Join the conversation Gustav, "Now, tell me what you plan to stay Netherlands? What do you want to see? ", He said, and significantly at me. 

"You could have to ask me anything else, but this question I have no answer. However ... I have one desire, in fact, the two desires. I want to go to two separate places in Amsterdam, the place we were thirty years ago and which I remember to this

day. First, I want to go to one small shop, the Small channel and there to buy those beautiful black rubber candy with anise.Second, I would like again to go to one beautiful kreperiju, as was the name of the street ..., to remember where we kreps ate a dozen ways ... So these are my wishes. " 

"And you, Branka, where you want to go?" 

"My wish is to visit Amsterdam flea market." 

"God, you're still like little children!", Laughs the Gustav, "Bob came from Serbia in Amsterdam to Buy Now rubber candy, and Branka to visit flea markets! " 

Morning has already elicited little people on the streets Parmerenda, and three of us are thrilled moved to Gustavov ancient olive green Volkswagen van from the period of the 70's, who has repeatedly and prefarbavan izlupan from all sides and make it to Amsterdam. 

Everywhere around us the way, was crowded. The approaches to the city, traffic collapse. About our new, shining cars and nervous drivers who trumpets us almost every intersection. Gustav peaceful and poised, as if not noticing turmoil around them. Drive slowly, even too easy. 

"I got the impression that in every place where it occurs, additional drivers become nervous and iziritirani you simply want to remove us from the road! ", say excited Gustav. 

"The right to tell you, I the other participants in traffic and almost no notice. Menu is right pleasure to drive this beauty from my van, however izlupana and was rusty. Although, I go to town often bike. So always keep the van in my two bikes, in case you do not can penetrate to the center. Then take out of the car and bike path continuing with it. " 

"And therefore with him wearing two, not a bike?", I asked astonished. 

"Oh, you know, if I burst tire, I can not change that. It's easier for me to change the whole bike. " 

"Just practice! But it is not logical to me? "   Somehow we managed to penetrate the center of town. Gustav van left the parking lot, where he was allowed to park next hour. We decided to do my favorite pastry shop walk. When we finally find the hidden channel whose bank should be confectionery, we waited for the disappointment. Instead of pastry, in a place where it once located, was a Turkish greengrocery. 

"See, this is as in Belgrade, Stari grad! Peppers, cucumbers and tomatoes. ", Surprised Branka cried. "The only thing we do not have the Turks to sell fruits and vegetables. With our peasant can and popričaš that, even if cenjkaš, and this does not call. " 

Gustav stood mute and motionless. Zalazio not long in this end of town, and I was surprised. 

"I remember, Gustav, you're always in your car had a sheet metal box with a variety of black Candy with anise, which you bought this place. ", obratih him. 

"Yes. If you brought me here, or I would not know it was missing the last shop in which sold black bombobe with anise. For many years it was the only place where they produce and selling these candies. I do not believe that we will find them nowhere more., "Answered Marco resignation. "But, let's go to the flea market!" 

After a short walk, we brought in a small square which is located in Amsterdam flea market. It was once my favorite place where I left that I admired the beautiful antiquities which are exposed on the ground covered paver brick, enticing views ushićenih tourists. I remember famous story that someone once found and bought on the market buvljoj cheap kitsch image.For her subsequently turned out to be a masterpiece of Dutch painting, which was hidden under the new colors and image spam. A hundred years after the creation of incomparable original, it is assumed that during the Second World War, someone did paint over the old images and the way to keep her happy inventors. Lucky for the buyer to pay a little thing the image, and become a millionaire over night. However, I am in

Amsterdam flea market always come with excitement and pleasure, and that I could have hours to investigate and prevrćem old, Antikvarne items: porcelain, jewelry, paintings, books, glass. 

However, the appearance of a new flea markets all three of us really surprised. The old brick pavement replace the asphalt, and the market itself has been reorganized, modernized. Although it was still open space, congested mixed goods, the most important was that in that place sold modern goods, made mostly from China, which exhibited the Chinese vendors, and only after that the stand is had one old spirit Antikvarne market. 

"What this happened with Amsterdam flea market?", Cried Branka. "This is more like New Belgrade buvljak, however not, like Chinese flea center! Although, among the Chinese there are other Nations and races: Blacks, Arabs, and even the Gypsies! " 

"Yes, and goods is the same as with us," answered. "Look, the sale of shoes, pants and umbrellas. Even prices lower than in Belgrade! Cupping glass itself an umbrella! " 

Gustav is just slegao shoulders. "And for me this is a novelty. I was not here for years. Yet I remember what a romantic place where you could buy most unusual cases, the place was wrapped mystery of the past. What does happen with the market? Simply, I wonder where you are to me 

Now we? " 

"I've a bit hungry, let's go to the one your kreperiju," Branka interruptions me buying an umbrella. "They ate far from here?" 

"Oh no, here everything is so close," she answered Marco. 

Poprečili we have a small street, crossed the canal and soon found themselves in front of the beautiful little kreperije. 

"Finally we found something that has changed its content," I likovao showing satisfaction which I remember well is because I just found the requested restaurant. 

Starving and a bit tired, udjosmo. The room in which we found was decorated in traditional Dutch tavern from the early twentieth century. Wooden tables, massive, Room full of flowers, and hanging on the walls are engravings of old Amsterdam. With impatience we welcomed us to approach the waitress and order have all ten species krepsa: starting from a blank krepsa, appetizers, several kinds of dishes, all prepared to krepsa a sweet treat. 

»See the waitress!", We drew attention to Branko. "So they are travestiti!" 

"No matter what travestiti, maybe only a little virago," answered. 

»See carefully!" 

At that point, the conversation turned on Gustav: 

"Yeah, right Branka, are genuine travestiti. All the waitress are in fact boys, who came from Thailand. Since the cheaper labor of women, who are also working at night, as »Saleswoman of love", and competition requires female staff, they prerušavaju in girls. In this ugadjaju way away, and do not cost much. See just how well made up, smooth shaven. Giving them just the way men walk and rough movements. Even the menu should be enough time to discover this "fraud" restaurateur. Today, in Amsterdam, in almost all oriental restaurants you can no longer Sreten female staff, but they travestiti. See how these utegnuti guys, and they furnished the chest as if they were true. " 

When we are satisfied and najedeni, exit kreperije on the streets of Amsterdam has already fallen the night. Instigated we have a car, that instead of one hour, the parking lot was full day. The driver's side glass located in the envelope with a fine. 

"Two hundred and fifty euros? Incredible! ", Uzviknuh when I saw the amount that needs to pay on behalf of penalties for exceeding parking time in the city. 

"If you think better," said Nana, "to come to him more than the market value of 

car ... However, it is less than the cost of three hundred euros would pay me to drive car on the lot for recycling and there left him in the old iron. " 

"What shall we do now?" He asked. 

"Nothing, at least we are free to leave the car in the parking lot this whole night," answered Marco. "So, where are we going?" 

»Where to go at night in Amsterdam," Join the conversation Branka, "but in the quarter rose.We direction there! " 

It was not hard to find in Amsterdam the fourth time to pink. Like going to Mecca or to any another pilgrimage, thousands of tourists who have found that evening in this city, headed the way Pink quarters. Among Chinese, Japanese, Americans and Indians, tiskali we are in the crowd and We, in the midst prigušenih lanterns this quarter, where tourists love sales. 

Along the way to this neighborhood, at every step, we were stopped "dealers", offering us "sweets -- sweets, "ie," cheap "marijuana, ecstasy, and other powerful drugs. Soon, everywhere about us zaudaralo the sticky smell of marijuana, which reminded me to sweat and from which we was a bit sick. 

»View those thick black prostitute! Oh, I do not understand, who still wants something so bad in bed? 

", Asked Branka. 

The girl without a bra, which has stood on street corners, turns to us and cried with a loud voice to Serbian language: "Where you fellow countrymen? Come! Come! " 

Approached surprised. 

»How do you know that we are fellow countrymen?" He asked. 

"So what do you mean, who am I? I know how to namirišem Serbs of hundred meters! But, to hit, you're from Belgrade, surely you are from Borča! " 

"From Borča? How you now so that we Borča from? "He asked. 

"Well, yesterday I was a customer from Borča. Some truck driver, hunks! Will you honor! " 

"And where are you", I asked was because I was good stared. I was pretty sure that comes from cardboard Roma settlements located below the New Belgrade bridge Strip. 

"I'm from Višnjica! I worked three years in Belgrade, Pancevo time. And then they brought me inAmsterdam. Much hard work, but worth it! Here I have a real apartment, a good salary, I have even social insurance. Here is much better than in Belgrade. For every month - two of us to review 

AIDS, give us medicine when necessary, none of us do not beat. And, as with you, in Borča? " 

"Well, well! We're not in Borča. " 

"You want a little with me? I will give you a discount! " 

»Some thanks, some thanks." 

»O.k.! Then, see you in Belgrade! ", Turn our zemljakinja the next group of black tourists that is passing. 

Quite tired, all three are almost at the same time suggested to go back to Parmerend on sleep. 

When we entered the modest but dignified Gustavovu house, we skuvali tea. With a cup of green tea, fatigue slowly disappeared. We were all aware that we, and the second time in a row together in the story welcomed morning. 

At one point, I decided to present all of Gustav weight problems where the Branka and I: we have entered illegally into the European Union, to have proof of entry into the Netherlands, which are more Schengen visas in our passports revoked. 

Gustavo reaction was like the one he showed when he saw the penalty for exceeding parking time last day in Amsterdam. 

»O.k., not only to ax. As long as you are with me, you are sure. However, with all long flow time of your stay in the Netherlands, all the more likely you discover the police. Parmerend is a small place where everyone knows everyone, and you've already turned himself in quite a large attention. " 

"Our idea was just to spend a weekend in Paris, and not to stay in Europe longer Time, "his nastavih I thought," why we think it would be good but the next day to go back to Serbia. However, do not fall on my mind no possibility of our safe return. " 

"I have an idea," said Marco. "I'll have you back in Serbia. Few will be my ride in Europe lumber, and a couple of days we'll get together and safe in Belgrade. If you're with me, no one will not ask for any documents or visas. " 

"Well, that's fantastic! You will be our guest in Belgrade! ", Viknusmo Branka and I in the same voice. 

"Today the whole day rest and at night we start on time," said Marco. "Do you have a desire, through which countries to drive? " 

"No, no," answered. "Although ... you know ... during the war in former Yugoslavia, we lived in Italy, in Trieste. Menu would be very happy to re-visit this place and see with our old friends from the neighborhood. I would like to visit Walter and Claudia. " 

"Excellent idea, let's go over Trieste, anyway we are the city along the way!", Enthusiastically answered Marco. 

Most of the morning, we spent leškareći in Gustavovoj green garden crowded flowers. After lunch, slowly we started to prepare for the trip. Gustavov Volkswagen was spacious enough for us three. After we packed, the rest is not enough space, and Gustav left his two riding in the car. Branka has shed found a brush and a can of paint, which is the side parties van draws flowers and stylized letters written by "Magic Bus". Gustav this liked the unusual decoration. 

In the evening we went on the road. Estate was quite slow and quite rambunctious, but he drew the brave East. In addition we have the night lights propagate the Dutch town. Soon we entered Germany.There is time led by the modern and wide roads, the ride was a monotone, so we Branka and I soon fallen into a dream. 

When I awoke, it was already dawn. Branka was awake. 

"Where are we?" He asked. 

"In Italy," said Marco. 

"In Italy? As we passed the border? " 

"What border?" 

Then it became clear to me that this has no borders, no customs, no smuggling. I remembered ćerkine stories that ran for prom trip from Serbia to the Serbian Republic, then in Bosnia in Sarajevo, and in Croatia in Dubrovnik, that came in the fourth state, Montenegro, Herceg Novi. In all borders was passport control, baggage control, may start the food and drinks. Here, in Europe, it does. All as one state. 

Slowly I began to absorb the sight of Italy. Mountains, forests, old towns and villages in the hills all around me is resemble to the years spent in Trieste. This part of the time I still knew almost by heart. 

"For most of two hours we are in Trieste!," I said. "And there you lead in the inn" Soča "the bestpettitoes I ate in my life! Can not wait to get! " 

The landscape is gradually poprimao Mediterranean characteristics. The road led through a beautiful field on which grew olives, and next to rural route rose the cypress. In the distance see the sea, and on the coast in bright colors, bathed sun sparkled Trieste. 

"There it is, Trieste!", I yelled. 

"Where is he? Where to? ", Gustav bend the neck in order to saw away the city. 

At that moment, heard the pounding some kind, then squeak of tires, and our Volkswagen began to pull to way. 

»Brakes! Gone are the brakes!, "Cried Nana from the lungs. "Bear!" 

I caught your strength for the seat, and Branka I threw in my lap. In that instant, the car the uncontrolled poskočio, nagnuo and went into a deep ditch which is located near the road.Crackle and the groan of metal nadjačalo is shooting through the branches of bushes that we have fallen. The car is touched ground, then jumped off, then touched the ground and jumped off. Soon we found at the bottom of the deep bright, the front of the zabijeni in the country. 

»Eksplodiraće! Eksplodiraće!, "Cried the Gustav. "Get out!" 

In an instant, all three are found outside the car. Old wreck smoking, and we tried to be removed to a safe distance. We waited for the car set on fire. After several minutes, Although in shock, we realized that the car will not burn, and at the same time we realize that none of us has injured. We approached the old wrinkly van and pulled it from our things. 

"What shall we do now?", I asked Gustav, after some time. 

"I do not know either," he answered. "Not worth it to Vadim old car from the ravine, or to repair. Only when he drove the car to the service, you will pay more than he's worth. The simplest 

to leave him here in this hole. Fortunately, none of us did not notice, and therefore, no one even report a traffic accident. In this way, and the two of you are saved, because no one will ask question your presence in the vehicle as well as your stay in Italy. If you leave the KRNT jaruzi not I have no one to lay accounts of what happened and why it happened. You will continue time for Serbia, and I'll be the first flight back to Amsterdam, where I will simply report the disappearance the car. " 

"And so we come to Serbia?" He asked. 

"Here's how," said Gustav and removed from the wreckage of his two bicycles that were left intact. "If knows the geography, we are near the border with Slovenia ... It is just that Keep away from large cities, especially Trieste. " 

"Well, yes," I nastavih, "bikes will be much easier for us to join in Slovenia, and that we are already somehow manage. It is, however, our former country ... What about the pettitoes in the "Sochi"? " 

"Do not worry, it will be more opportunity for pettitoes in the" Sochi "," Marco answered. There is still life in front of us. I suggest that next year at this time, we are in a cafe "Soča" in Trieste and then eat our pettitoes. 

"Good idea, said Branka." 

"I suggest that you two just go biking, not to draw attention to us. Trieste airport is already close, and I will be much easier to stop an Italian car to it, but You Serbs to come to Slovenia. It is time to welcome. " 

Izljubismo be. With tears in eyes, Branko and I mounted the bicycle, which were laden with bags with our baggage. Gustav has long looked in our direction and waved to us. 

The road led us on the edge of the hinterland of Trieste, through the fields where they grow low conifers. Very fast udjosmo in one village in which the prevailing small stone houses. Name the place was not a Slavic bilingual, and we quickly concluded that we drove to Slovenia. Along the rural road waved as us on the farmers fields. We otpozdravljali them. The air was fresh, sharp mountains, the mirisao the mint, and the sun baked everything from power. We felt at home. 

"I think it is wisest to go to Nova Gorica," predložih. "There is a railway, and we may find a train to Belgrade. " 

Towards evening, we drove slowly in New Gorizia. Now we find the railway station. Bicycles We left the parking lot in front. 

"Please, two tickets to Belgrade," obratih the lady who worked on the ticket. 

"Excuse me, but there is no train to Belgrade." 

»How to get to Belgrade?" 

"You train to Ljubljana, and from there, via Zagreb, to reach you in Belgrade. 

"Well, give us two tickets to Ljubljana." 

"Hurry up, the train just is not going." 

On the way to Ljubljana, nobody asked us for documents, even if we did not ask for any card. At the entrance to Croatia, we slept passport control. In Zagreb the next day we bought two tickets for the fast train to Belgrade. 

On the border with Serbia, approached us and asked Serbian official travel documents. Surprise is that coming from Croatia, and Croats are not certified to us passports. We told him that we slept in and buy that none of us woke up to our documents sought. 

On the Belgrade railway station welcomed us with a powerful shower Thunder. Wet and tired, We moved into a taxi and went home. 

When we entered the apartment, Sofia, like a few days ago, still sitting at his computer and wandering around the Internet. 

"Bring me something to eat!", Yelled from his room. "I'm hungry!" 

"There is nothing to eat, go and buy!", Stormed to her, Branko. 

"So where are you these days? You always call on your mobile phone, and you're off! "Asks us Sofia. "How was the cottage? Are there mosquitoes in Čortanovci? " 

"And, yes, mosquitoes? Surprisingly, they were not, "corresponds Branka, preparing coffee. 

Coffee was over, and the two of us we pokislih passengers sitting in reclining chairs. 

"Wow, what a weekend!," Cried Branka. 

"What a weekend!", Answered. 

»I continue where we left off? We want next year to pettitoes in Trieste? " 

"But what? Let's go to restaurant "Soča" on pettitoes! " 

Note: It is possible that there is a similarity of names and events in this story with real names and events. It is possible that (even) intentionally. 

Slobodan Maldini,   Belgrade, 06.06.2009.