Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 4438 FOCUS - MARCH 2017 When travelling I always enjoy visit- ing countries, which are out of the way or relatively unknown. Such is the case of Montenegro, a small nation located on the Adriatic Sea, across from Italy. Although cruise ships frequent the country, they seldom offer visitors an opportunity to travel inland and explore this mountainous nation. The Bay of Kotor is one of the most scenic areas in the region and offers sailing, swimming and various other water related activi- ties. Many pass the time picnicking on the shores of the tranquil water. Rich in history, modern Monte- negro’s origin dates back to the ninth century, but the area was first settled in 1,000 BCE. The landscape is dot- ted with medieval villages, where life has changed little in the past centuries. The name of the country means Black Mountain, which is evident by the giant summits of the Durmitor Peaks. For the more adventurous travellers a climb to the top of Mount Lovćen is well worth the trek. I was hesitant at first, but am glad I did it. After a steep ride, then up a series of steps, through a tunnel, out to a walkway, and along a path, you arrive at the Mausoleum of Peter II, arguably the most well-known of Montenegro’s rulers. His love of lit- erature spread far and wide, and today he is still revered as the country’s most influential poet. Closer to the ground, along the shores of the Bay of Kotor, lies the quaint village of Perast. Albeit quite small, Per- ast is a wonderful area to hire a sailboat and cruise the peaceful waters of the Bay. The medieval architecture dots the road along the water, and the tall church the region and offers sailing, swimming first, but am glad I did it. After a steep Wild Beauty BY JONATHAN VAN BILSEN