Last night we pulled into a private beach club called Ladies Beach. It was closed for the season. There is a sulphuric spring here which is said to have healing powers for women. We put our tent up on the veranda and this morning went into the village around 09:30.

We walked around and saw some sights, in case some women wanted privacy at the healing waters.

Around 14:30 a man approached us and asked us if we were the Norwegian kayakers who parked the kayaks at Ladies Beach. An elderly woman was concerned that we might be bandits and was waiting for us. We walked back. Yes she was there waiting for us at a table by our tent. I smiled and tried to shake her hand, but she wasn’t approachable. After phoning my friend Jelena in Budva and letting her explain our situation and who we were, the tension broke and I saw this lovely sparkle in her eye. She read the Piece Prize articles from Budva news and soon we were on the same wave-length. We shared some pictures, took some pictures and she gave us the keys to the bathroom and gate that we climbed over earlier in the day. Despite the fear and apprehension, we left as good friends. We all have our fears, but with a little openness and information, we get closer and gain acceptance to handle the differences.

I haven’t been to Albania but after meeting Albion (left) who has his roots from this country, I am looking forward to the visit. Albion was warm, friendly and had a contagious personality. It was great meeting him and his friend Agon. Many people I meet tell me that Albania is a wonderful country in the midst of positive change.