In a world obsessed with bucket lists and Instagram hotspots, there are still places that feel like the pages of an untold story. The Balkans—rugged, raw, and brimming with legend—are one of them.

In this episode, I sit down with adventurer and independent travel expert Annie Sisson to uncover why this overlooked corner of Europe deserves a place in every explorer’s heart. We swap stories of winding mountain roads, crumbling fortresses, secret coastlines, and cultures shaped by centuries of upheaval and resilience.

If you’ve ever dreamed of discovering a place before the world does—or you crave that old-school, edge-of-the-map feeling—this episode is your compass. The Balkans aren’t just a destination. They’re an adventure story waiting to be lived.

Listen to my trip to Albania on the Travel Now Podcast

You can find Annie here

Takeaways:

• Travelers have long sought destinations that remain unspoiled and free from tourists.
• The Balkan Peninsula, rich in culture, is often overlooked by mainstream tourism.
• Annie Sisson emphasizes the authenticity and unpredictability of traveling in the Balkans.
• The region offers a unique blend of languages, cultures, and landscapes, enhancing the adventure.
• Public transport in the Balkans can be challenging, hence renting a car is recommended.
• Sarajevo stands out as a magical destination, blending diverse cultures and rich history.

Got a Story Idea?

If you have a mystery, legend, or adventure you’d like me to explore, drop a comment or email me at hello@lukerichardsonauthor.com. I’d love to hear from you!

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A missing Picasso... A master thief... A thrilling race against time!

When a priceless Picasso disappears in Paris, legendary thief Bernard Moreau is the prime suspect. But as two unlikely allies—Eden Black and Adriana Villa—hunt him down, the chase turns deadly. It’s a race through the shadowed streets of Paris, where every twist is as unpredictable as the city itself.

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