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Capital Contrasts: The Dual Facets of Podgorica

Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, is a city where modernity effortlessly interweaves with a rich historical lineage. Situated near the confluence of the Ribnica and Morača rivers, Podgorica has seen various civilizations come and go, from the Illyrians and Romans to the Ottomans. One of the most iconic remnants of its past is the Ribnica Bridge, an…
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Cobbled Paths & Coastal Panoramas: Kotor Unveiled

Kotor, a coastal town in Montenegro, has an undeniable charm that’s deeply rooted in its rich past. Enclosed by thick medieval stone walls and perched by the sparkling Bay of Kotor, the city stands as a silent witness to centuries of maritime history. The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, a Romanesque marvel built in the 12th…
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Pristina Perspectives: A Glimpse into Kosovo’s Heart

I ventured into Pristina, the dynamic capital of Kosovo, a city teeming with both history and forward-looking energy. One of the most intriguing sites that caught my attention was the Imperial Mosque, also known as the Sultan Mehmet Fatih Mosque. Constructed in the 15th century after Sultan Mehmet II’s conquest of the region, this mosque…
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Prizren’s Palette: A Mosaic of Cultures and Eras

Stepping into Prizren, Kosovo’s cultural capital, is akin to turning the pages of a living history book, with each stone and monument whispering tales of the past. The city is home to the ancient Lumbardhi River, whose waters have been a silent witness to centuries of change, from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras to the…
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Discovering Ohrid: The Jerusalem of the Balkans

I wandered the historic streets of Ohrid, a gem on the shores of one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, Lake Ohrid. This UNESCO World Heritage city is often referred to as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans” because, at one point, it boasted 365 churches – one for each day of the year. The significance…
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Skopje to Matka: A Journey Through Time and Terrain

Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, unfolded its treasures before me, with every street and monument echoing stories of resilience and rebirth. The city’s recovery from the devastating 1963 earthquake is a testament to the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants. The Stone Bridge, an age-old emblem spanning the Vardar River, silently narrated tales from the…
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Medieval Marvels and Modern Moments: Kuressaare Diary

Today I ventured into the heart of Kuressaare, the capital of Saaremaa island in Estonia, a town where time seems to slow and history proudly stands tall. The centerpiece of this picturesque locale is the Kuressaare Castle, the best-preserved medieval fortress in the Baltics. Built in the 14th century, the castle is a testament to…
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Golden Hues and Historic Views: Feeling the Pulse of Riga

Riga, Latvia, greeted me with a tender, cloud-spotted sky, allowing the city’s golden hues to shine brilliantly in the morning sun. I started my day at the Riga Central Market, where the lively banter between locals created a hearty background noise as I navigated through rows of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and some of the…
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Bucharest: Tracing the Footsteps of History in Romania’s Crown Jewel

This morning, I set out to explore the dynamic landscape of Bucharest, Romania’s capital and the sixth largest city in the EU. The city’s diverse architectural styles, which range from classical and neo-classical to Bauhaus and art deco, tell the story of its rich and varied past. Central to this story is the Palace of…
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Between Mountains and Monarchies: Discovering Sinaia’s Charms

Today marked an enchanting day as I wandered the picturesque streets of Sinaia, Romania, a jewel tucked between the Bucegi and Baiu mountain ranges. Renowned for its gorgeous mountain scenery, Sinaia is also home to the spectacular Peles Castle, a masterpiece of German new-Renaissance architecture. This castle not only offers a visual feast but holds…