From my vantage point on a pier in Sarandë, Albania, Corfu seemed within reach, either by physical contact or, at the absolute least, by swimming. The scenery resembled a paradise, including undulating verdant hills, sapphire seas, and traditional architecture scattered around the coastline. Upon nearing the island during our half-hour boat journey, I promptly saw that it was not an optical illusion; the Greek island indeed had the same level of beauty when seen up close as it does from afar.