Kotor, a fortified jewel on Montenegro’s Adriatic, nestles in the fjord-like Bay of Kotor with ancient ruins, winding lanes and irresistible old-world charm.

“Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik perches on southern Dalmatia’s coast, its 16th-century stone walls encircling a charming Old Town of seafood feasts and quaint boutiques.

Having lived in Asia, Japan still baffled me: confusing trains, dramatic weather and wild solo adventures — use these Japan travel tips to plan your escape.