I'm from the Balkans and I don't get why you found it unexpected... The foods are absolutely amazing and diverse, there're many historical places to visit because especially countries like Greece have a long history, the weather is great, people are warm and welcoming. There're so many things to experience.
I actually specialised in the history of Yugoslavia and later met my boyfriend. Learning Bosnian right now and learning a bunch of recipes. He was never impressed by my dishes until I figured out, it wasn't my cooking but he just likes Balkan dishes so much better. (⌒▽⌒") So when it's my turn to cook, I try making Balkan dishes as often as possible and he loves them. (๑❛ᴗ❛๑)
Where are you from?
Wait, I need an explanation about that Balkan thing. Not even my boyfriend is that excited when we go there to visit his home town. (⌒▽⌒") But I can recommend going there, especially the sea-side. It's just unexpected to read about it in a manhwa.