When I think of Eastern Europe, it can be easy to jump to stereotypical images of former communist bloc, grey buildings and conflict.  Having visited Montenegro this summer (and Croatia a few years ago) I am fast discovering how amazing and beautiful these countries can be.

Case in point is the stunning Lake Skadar in Montenegro.  We travelled there on a day trip from Budva, paying 28 euros to join a coach trip taking us to the Lake for two hours of sailing and swimming on what is the Balkans largest body of water, surrounded by stunning mountains, with one third of it in Albania.

We were lucky to have a friendly and knowledgable guide who (like so many Montenegrins we met) spoke perfect English and was able to tell us plenty about the history of Montenegro, politics, culture and importantly the natural life around the lake which includes (for the ornithologists among you!) over 280 different types of birds, including pelicans. It was honestly breathtaking, and well worth a visit.