After being in Kotor for 24 hours, I can confidently say that it’s been one of my best ideas yet.

My original plan never included Montenegro. My original plan had me in South Korea by this point. But due to some last-minute changes with friends, I’m now going to be in South Korea towards the end of my trip. So that left me with a few open weeks in Europe. However, I had used up my 3-month visa in the Schengen Area. So I was on the hunt for countries that I could still visit.

And that’s how I decided on Montenegro.

I mean, don’t get me wrong – I’ve wanted to visit Montenegro before. I just didn’t think I’d have time on this trip. So when availability opened up, I was excited for the opportunity.

Walking into Old Town, it was such a lovely experience. Being low season, everything is peaceful and authentic. Natural. As my soul began breathing lighter, I passed a cafe that was playing the chorus of Feels Like Home on their radio. I laughed to myself. Sometimes life is silly and coincidental.

I would highly recommend my hostel, Old Town Hostel West Wing. They do an excellent job of planning fun activities, coordinating tours, and offering van transfers to other nearby cities. It’s also a great vibe, great price, and great cleanliness. They make travel easy.

It was a beautiful morning, so I decided to join the hostel festivities for a boat cruise across the Bay of Kotor. Mainly because I love boats. A lot. And I’ve never once regretted a boat decision.

And that was my day. I spent the entire afternoon on the boat cruise soaking up the sun. I sat on the roof deck and talked with two German girls for hours about our trips and where we’ve been. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of talking to travelers.

By dinner time, we docked at a small coastal town where I had a 3-course meal for 5 euros. I’m not going to lie, Eastern Europe is so kind to the wallet.

While on the boat cruise, I was continuously in awe of Montenegro. I knew that it was going to be pretty, but I didn’t know that it was going to be this pretty.

Honestly – everyone should visit if they can.