Anyone who knows me well, knows that I think Santorini is the most beautiful place on Earth.  However, after a quick stop in Herceg Novi, Montenegro I wasn’t sure where I’d prefer having a summer home.  Following the climb up the Kanli Kula Fortress, my friends and I drove to the Bay of Kotor for one memorable hike up to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Health and the top of the old city walls.  I’m still sore just thinking about doing two hiking climbs back to back.  

At a first glance Belgrade is not the most attractive city, but it didn’t take long to find the appeal.  I was enamored by the beauty of the views from the old citadel.  Kalamagden Fortress showcases the best views of Belgrade and offers a glimpse into the leisure activity of the Serbs.  Located on the banks of the Danube and Sava rivers, Kalamagden was a bit out of the way.  However, I made my way there each of the three days that I spent in Serbia.  

Upon arrival at our accomodations in Belgrade, I was taken aback by the appearance of the facade.  

“Here?”  

The cab driver looked at me as if I were crazy.  I checked my travel book to make sure I gave him the right address.  He said, “63.  Yes, here.”  He took the bags out of the car, and I entered with caution.  The inside was completely remodeled and much nicer than the outside, but now I know what a city looks like after being bombed several times.