Kotor, Montenegro…I am captivated by the setting of this place. It feels like it was carved out between limestone cliffs and mountain peaks. The hills rising above it are laden with lush greenery and ancient fortresses.

Another walled city with Renaissance and Baroque influences, Old town Kotor is a perfect setting for the many cafes that line its streets…Huge umbrellas, misting fans, and comfortable loungers abound and the waiters are happy to let you spend the whole day relaxing and observing the many that come and go through the city gates. No pressure, just milk a drink slowly for hours, while staring out on the old stone buildings covered with shutters set against the rugged mountainside behind them. I loved all the Juliet balconies covered with plants, but one stood out with its cluster of hanging succulents. I am admire succulents and have many in my apartment, but I had no idea they could look so lush and hang so nicely…just another lightbulb moment!

Outside the city walls, Yachts of all sizes come and go all day in and out of Kotor Bay. The bay is sheltered amongst the mammoth hillside and the deep dark blue color of the water is very different from what I have seen in it’s neighbors, Croatia or Greece!

Even though many islands can be easily visited from here, my afternoon is happily spent planted cozily at a cafe. Just for this moment, I sat there feeling that time was just standing still and it felt so great!