Crossing Borders, Crossing Paths

The journey from Dubrovnik to Montenegro was more than just a geographical transition; it was a passage through time and history. As our small group gathered at the Cable Car station in Dubrovnik, I felt the familiar twinge of anticipation that accompanies the start of a new adventure. Our guide, Andrew, greeted us with a warm smile, and soon we were on our way, leaving the bustling streets of Dubrovnik behind.

The border crossing was seamless, a testament to the efficiency of traveling in a small group. As we presented our passports, I couldn’t help but reflect on the symbolic nature of borders—lines drawn on maps that separate cultures, histories, and identities. Yet, here we were, a group of strangers united by a shared curiosity and a desire to explore the unknown.

Our first stop was Perast, a town that seemed to float on the edge of reality. The short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks was a moment of pure magic. As the first group to arrive, we had the island to ourselves, a rare gift in the world of travel. Standing on the island, surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Bay of Kotor, I felt a sense of peace that had eluded me for some time.

Echoes of the Past in Kotor

Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, welcomed us with its medieval charm and rich history. Walking through the narrow streets, I was transported back to a time when the world was a tapestry of small, interconnected communities. The city walls, standing tall against the backdrop of the emerald moat, whispered stories of resilience and survival.

Our guide led us to Forza Café, where we indulged in the local delicacy, krempita. The creamy dessert was a delightful contrast to the rugged beauty of the town, a reminder that even in the most ancient of places, there is room for sweetness and joy.

As I wandered through Kotor, I found myself drawn to the quiet corners and hidden alleys. Each turn revealed a new facet of the town’s character, a mosaic of history and culture that spoke to the soul. It was in these moments of solitude that I felt most connected to the world around me, a traveler in search of meaning and understanding.

Budva: A Dance of Light and Shadow

Our final destination was Budva, a town that danced between the old and the new. The harbor waterfront was alive with the scent of the sea and the laughter of locals and tourists alike. We enjoyed a seafood lunch, the flavors of the Adriatic mingling with the warmth of the sun.

Exploring Budva’s old town was like stepping into a living painting. The stone walls and narrow streets were bathed in the golden light of the afternoon, casting long shadows that seemed to stretch into eternity. As I walked the Citadel and city wall, I was struck by the stunning views of Sveti Nikola, a distant island that seemed to hover on the horizon like a dream.

In Budva, I found a reflection of my own journey—a dance of light and shadow, of past and present. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery, a reminder that travel is not just about the places we visit, but the stories we carry with us.

As we made our way back to Dubrovnik, I felt a sense of gratitude for the experiences and connections forged on this journey. Montenegro had opened its heart to us, and in doing so, had left an indelible mark on mine. Kotor UNESCO Tour