Crossing Borders and Boundaries

The morning air was crisp as I stood outside my hotel, waiting for the minibus that would take me on a journey through Montenegro. The chill in the air mirrored the introspective chill that often accompanies my solo travels. As the minibus arrived, I was joined by fellow travelers, each of us wrapped in our own thoughts, yet united by the anticipation of the day ahead.

The transition from the minibus to the larger coach was seamless, and soon we were on our way, passports in hand, ready to cross into Montenegro. The border crossing was a reminder of the boundaries we set in our own lives, and how, sometimes, we must wait patiently to cross them. Our guide, Lidjia, filled the journey with stories and history, her voice a comforting presence as we traversed the landscape.

Discovering Kotor’s Secrets

Our first stop was Budva, a town that seemed to hold its secrets close, much like the old towns I had wandered through in Prague and Budapest. The narrow streets and ancient walls whispered stories of the past, and I found myself lost in thought as I explored. The time allotted was more than enough, allowing me to reflect on the parallels between the town’s history and my own journey.

Kotor, however, was a revelation. Even under an overcast sky, the town’s beauty was undeniable. A local guide led us through the old town, and I felt a kinship with the place, as if it too was on a journey of self-discovery. The climb to the chapel, halfway up to the fortress, was a physical manifestation of the inner climb I often find myself on. The view from the chapel was breathtaking, a reminder of the rewards that await when we push ourselves beyond our comfort zones.

The Allure of Perast

Our final stop was Perast, a town that seemed to float on the edge of reality. The opportunity to visit Our Lady of the Rocks was tempting, but I chose to stay on the mainland, content to let my thoughts drift with the gentle waves. The artificial island, created by the hands of seamen, was a testament to human determination and the power of belief.

As we made our way back to Dubrovnik, the delay at the border was a minor inconvenience, a reminder that some boundaries take longer to cross than others. The day had been long, but it was a journey worth taking, a day filled with discovery and reflection. Montenegro had opened its doors to me, and in doing so, had opened a door within myself.