Northern Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park, Tara Canyon & Ostrog Monastery
Northern Montenegro — the country's most majestic region — borders fairy-tale Kotor, a perfectly preserved medieval town of cobbled lanes, stone houses and postcard views. Nearby, gentle yet imposing mountains cradle emerald national parks home to the thunderous Tara Canyon, glassy Black Lake and sacred Ostrog Monastery — small, unforgettable wonders of the region's wild, soulful heart.
Whispers of Water & Emerald Trails at Plitviče Lakes National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage gem since 1979, Plitvice Lakes National Park dazzles with a fairy-tale cascade of tufa lakes, hidden caves and dramatic canyons, its waterfalls tumbling from heights over 250 feet. Emerald-green waters thread through 16 lakes and more than 90 falls, all inviting exploration along a network of wooden walkways and winding trails.
Croatia’s Dalmatian Isles
Historically known as Spalato, Split is the sparkling heart of Dalmatia and the busiest port along the Croatian coast. It’s alsoo an irresistible launchpad for island-hopping adventures. You can slip away to postcard-perfect spots: the luminous Blue Cave, the wild beauty of Stiniva Cove, the peaceful beaches of Budikovac and the vibrant island of Hvar — each a short boat ride from Split’s harbor and each offering its own slice of Adriatic magic.
Montenegro’s Lovćen Mausoleum, Royal Old Capital & Skadar Lake
Greater Montenegro is a tapestry of stirring history and vast, dramatic landscapes — where the solemn grandeur of Lovćen’s Mausoleum, the regal stone streets of the Royal Old Capital and the serene expanse of Skadar Lake each tell a different part of the country’s story. Wander through mountainous viewpoints that feel carved for postcards and discover hidden coastal gems where history lingers in every breeze.
Adriatic’s Coastal Medieval Town of Kotor
A fortified town on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro, Kotor sits nestled in the Bay of Kotor, a natural fjord characterized by ancient ruins, winding streets and more charm than one can ask for.
Pearl of the Adriatic
"Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik sits in southern Dalmatia along the Adriatic Sea and is known for its unique Old Town, enclosed with massive stone walls from the 16th century and packed full of delicious seafood restaurants and charming boutiques.
Sigiriya’s Eighth Wonder of the World (So They Say)
Dambulla is located in central Sri Lanka and the closest town to the Ancient City of Sigiriya. It's known for Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the largest and best preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, Dambulla Cave Temple, both of which visitors climb.
Japan Rules
Though I'd already lived in Asia, some of Japan's rules were simply lost on me. And as predicted, it was a tough country to explore on my own. Tricky transportation, swarming tourists and wild weather were a challenge to navigate.