courtneys

My most beloved place in the whole world is: The Motherland, Italy.  I never could have predicted how intense my love for Italy would become or how much I would revel in speaking the language.  I've probably visited close to 100 Italian cities by now and I never tire of it.  Need Italy tips?  I'm your gal. Greatest travel lesson learned: You are your best company.  I wish more people realized that.  Traveling with large groups is fun, but the thrill of landing in a foreign city alone with no rules or schedules to abide by is pure adrenaline. Fondest travel memory: One of my fondest, sweetest memories was meeting my new in-laws for the first time after a 16-hour road trip from Montenegro to Belgrade.  It was three in the morning and they were wide awake with anticipation, sitting at the kitchen table with traditional Serbian meats and a glass of red wine for me.  A warm welcome, indeed. First thing I do in a new place: Follow the scent of a fresh-roasted bean and head to the nearest, most local-yocal coffee shop.  A quick shot of caffeine, a chat with a few locals and then it's off to the races. First thing I do when I get home: Kiss my dachshund, Vucko, then pour over all the photos I've taken.  Then wish I could do it all over again. Travel ambition: To inspire more people to get out of their cubicles and into the world.