Long before I could ever point to little Montenegro on a map, I knew I wanted to visit the Bay of Kotor. Somehow, some way, I’d seen it in photos and was instantly captivated. Upon arrival, my inkling was proven correct–I was in love.
A few simple elements were all I needed to be swept off my feet.
Mother Nature, Unfiltered
Mother nature knew was she was doing when she decided to let mountains meet sea; the two go together like cheese and wine; like wine and me. It’s a combination I simply can’t resist. This perfect pairing is exemplified in this Adriatic inlet; and when a setting sun is thrown into the mix, completing nature’s most formidable trifecta, you’d better believe Kotor can melt even the iciest of hearts. Morning, afternoon, sunset or dusk, Kotor is nothing short of dazzling.
The Right Amount of Charm
And then there’s Kotor–the city, that is–which might just be the world’s most charming UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether seen from above or at cobblestone street level, it oozes with tradition, history, and in the summer months, gelato. Kotor’s stone walls charmed the pants right off me. Or maybe it was the summer heat. Or was it the quaint little apartment rental that offered reprieve from hostel-induced stress?
The Right Amount of Kitsch
I’d be remiss to fail to mention the kitsch. A cat museum, anyone? Street vendors selling antiques, cat shaped trinkets, or five-hundred billion dinar Yugoslav banknotes? How about the shark that resides in the canal, dutifully protecting the city from invasion? It’s almost too much to handle. Almost.
Delightful Montenegrin Treats
Burek so hot and fresh, the butter seeps through its paper container? Check. Wine (in good company) day after day? Check and check. 
That On-Top-of-the-World Feeling
Oh, didn’t you know that Kotor was at the top of the world? Well, it is. Hiking to the Castle of San Giovanni proved it to me. When you visit Kotor, you’ll see for yourself. The feeling is unmistakable.
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What characteristics make YOU fall in love with a city?
