In order to stay in Europe for 6 months we had to do what Shadow calls the, Schengen-Shuffle. It's where travelers bounce from "Eastern" to "Western" Europe maximizing their 90 day visas. For us that means that after our stay in Montenegro, we still have 41 days in Western Europe before heading back "home".
That week and half was spent busing from one town to the next swim, day hiking, and touring old cities. Trying our best not to gain weight from the gelato and pastries. We did learn a few lessons along the way.
One day for lunch on Kotor, we stopped at a "French" cafe. Both of us had been craving something other than the local fare. We ordered a fruit and cheese tray with bread and jam, you know, French style. What we got was another plate of Montenegrin meat and cheese. Don't get me wrong, it's great food, but we have had our fill. I got up to find the server. Pointing to the menu of what we ordered, then pointing to what we got. He looked at the menu for a little bit then looked at me and said, "We are out of all that." This story has repeated itself over and over. What's the point of having a menu when your only serving one thing! The traditional Montenegrin food is delicious. The key is finding it.
In Bar we were so desperate for another ethnic food that we decided to case the grocery store for any ingredients that would form something different. We hit the door and the ideas came me. NACHOS! Shadow's eyes lit up. "I'll get the cheese." He said and darted away. Our dinner wasn't authentic, but got the job done.
The next morning we met Gary, a nice guy from Seattle. Shadow and I had just left our apartment heading for town. Gary passed us going the opposite way and stopped us. "You speak English? I have not met another English speaker in 3 months!" Needless to say he was excited and so were we. That evening we met him and his wife Lynn for dinner and had a great time chatting. They too are doing the Schengen-Shuffle after spending 3 months in Greece.
A quick bus trip to our last coastal town, Ulcinj. This town was our favorite so far, notwithstanding the same touristy food. Sandy beaches, kiteboarding, and a running trail. What more could you ask for. Our apartment was so perfect we stayed two extra days. The town is packed with tourists in July and August, but September is perfect. There are 3 Mosques in town which adds to the culture here. Women in full clothing and women in bikinis share the beach in harmony. The owners of our apartment, Marko and Daniella, made us feel at home. We enjoyed each other's company so much that a few evenings were spent chatting on the balcony sipping Rakija and juice. Daniella picked ripe pomegranates from her tree for us the eat. Since we are on foot, Marko gave us a tour of the local area.
Tomorrow we head to our 8th country, France. More on that later.
Ulcinj
1 comment:
OMG, until I read the caption "dancing girl statue," I thought that was a photo of YOU!!!!!! LOL!!!
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