Color is coming back to the now-independent free-market democracy. A bit of the Balkan Peninsula, it's only slightly larger than Maryland. But there's variety inside that space, including a mountain-studded interior and an unspoiled Adriatic coastline.

With it's picturesque villages, laid-back lifestyle and world-famous cuisine, it's no wonder that the Mediterranean has been a go-to destination for summertime travelers for years. Here's a list of the top hidden beaches, tucked away in secluded corners and closely guarded by locals.

The most memorable moments were spent kayaking in the morning, taking a swim around the boat or stopping off on small beautiful islands as we made our way down to Bodrum.

I took a precautionary Dramamine an hour before heading out and also wore a wrist-band. Earlier in the week, winds topping 20 knots had pushed Eilean 45 degrees to the water during her races.

It has been a few years since I visited Beirut, but it is a city once seen never forgotten.

Pearly white sand and a clear blue sea are not an exception around the Mediterranean Sea.