Not So Obvious Morocco: Unveiling Places Most Tourists Miss

I heard from many friends and fellow travelers that Morocco is amazing and a true "must-visit" destination. But what struck me was that while they were all talking about the same country, they were excited about completely different things. Some were captivated by medieval cities with bustling Oriental bazaars, as if coming straight from "The… Continue reading Not So Obvious Morocco: Unveiling Places Most Tourists Miss

The Most Underappreciated European Country: Bosnia & Herzegovina

When I talked with friends about plans to visit Bosnia & Herzegovina, most of them would ask: "To visit what?" The other common reaction was: "Really? Why bother?" Situated on the Balkan Peninsula, Bosnia & Herzegovina (informally known as "Bosnia") is a country in southeastern Europe. With a population of about 3,5 million and a… Continue reading The Most Underappreciated European Country: Bosnia & Herzegovina

An Ancient Monastic Community in the Heart of California: New Camaldoli Hermitage in Big Sur

Big Sur is one of California's most iconic areas. Here, in the rugged and undeveloped section of Central Californian coast, Santa Lucia mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean. There is only one road to come here and explore: the narrow and winding Highway 1. It takes visitors into mesmerizing blend of dramatic cliffs, bizarre… Continue reading An Ancient Monastic Community in the Heart of California: New Camaldoli Hermitage in Big Sur

Dinagat Island: Blessed with Tranquil Nature, Friendly People and Mystical Faith

Philippines is the nation of about 7,000 islands, but most tourists flock to just a few destinations: like Boracay, Palawan, Coron, or Bohol. And - luckily for more inquisite travelers - they completely miss Dinagat. Unlike its close neighbor Siargao - the "surfing capital" of the Philippines - Dinagat remains undiscovered, offering an escape into… Continue reading Dinagat Island: Blessed with Tranquil Nature, Friendly People and Mystical Faith

A World on Its Own: the Outer Hebrides Islands (Scotland)

Luckily, there are still places in Europe where the nature feels untouched and the past history continues to deeply penetrate today's living. The Outer Hebrides islands of Scotland are definitely one of such places. Ocean, rocks, green pastures, and sheep are most common features of landscapes here The stern but stunningly beautiful landscapes of Hebrides… Continue reading A World on Its Own: the Outer Hebrides Islands (Scotland)

The Beautiful “Dead-End” of the Philippines: the Batanes Islands

After my trip to Port Barton on Palawan (read the story HERE), the "lost in time" island of Culion, and the "healing" island of Siquijor, I felt in love with the Philippines. Consisting of 7,641 islands, this country has a lot to offer to anyone: pristine beaches, abundant marine life, picture-perfect emerald rice terraces, majestic… Continue reading The Beautiful “Dead-End” of the Philippines: the Batanes Islands

Port Barton (Philippines): the next “Goa” is about to emerge?

First thing first: where is Port Barton and why is this reference to Goa? Port Barton is a village on the northwestern coast of Palawan island. Palawan island is located in the southwestern Philippines - the country comprised of about 7,000 islands. As to comparison with "Goa," it is one of the states in India.… Continue reading Port Barton (Philippines): the next “Goa” is about to emerge?

The Town which Has Everything (Even a “Secret” Orthodox Christian Church): Vezelay, France

A first-time visitor to France is NOT likely to choose Vezelay as his/her prime destination. Indeed, why to bother and go to a small (population 400) provincial town, which is far from major tourist destinations (125 km / 80 miles to Dijon, 250 km / 170 miles to Paris) and relatively hard to reach because… Continue reading The Town which Has Everything (Even a “Secret” Orthodox Christian Church): Vezelay, France