SERBIA, Belgrade

'October 20, 2014

Staying at Madness Hostel near Republic Square, the center of everything. So far only person staying at the hostel. Lots of pedestrian sidewalk cafes and shopping and they are very proud of their nightlife.

I did the FREE (tips appreciated) guided walking tour around Belgrade which lasted 3 hours. I, personally, am not a guided tour kinda person where they overload you with 1500 years of the cities history but some are.  The tour started off somewhat unusual as we were all given a shot of RAKIA, the local plum liquer, that can be lethal. Nothing like a shot at 11 am. The walk was really nice and enjoyed the Belgrade Fortress overlooking the Danube River. 3 nights in Belgrade and then flying to Split, Croatia for hopefully fun n sun.

Next day I enjoyed my favorite day of each place I visit. It usually involves walking around, obseving and watching everyday life of the country I am visiting. Revisited the Belgrade Fortress and had so much better time than on the tour. Saw more and had a chance to explore. The Fortress has the Sava River and Danube River on two sides. The rivers converge at one point.

ALBANIA, Tilaran

October 18, 2014

Taxi to Struga then bus to Tilaran, Albania (4 hrs). Only 1 night here which was plenty. Not very exciting from what I saw. Supposedly has lively nightlife but trying to keep costs down. Fly to Belgrade, Serbia tomorrow.

MACEDONIA, Ohrid

October 17, 2014

MACEDONIA, Ohrid, Church St. John and Samuel's Fortress

October 16, 2014

Walked along the lake and then climbed up to the church for great views of the lake. Most photographed spot in Ohrid according to locals. Then nice hike UP to Samuel's Fortress whose walls are mostly intact but nothing remains within the walls. Also visited the Ancient Roman Amphitheater. Seversl of the rows of stone seating were removed to accommodate gladiators.