I cannot believe it's been over a month since I went to Croatia, but oh how time passes when you're having fun! I was very determined to write this post because Croatia is one of the BEST places I've ever visited. I loved it so much in fact, that I would consider it an annual vacation destination. So, what did I love so much about Croatia? Well to be honest, it's a tourist destination with one of the most local experiences you will ever receive. I went with my good friend who also happens to be my colleague. We spent 3 days in Dubrovnik, and 5 days in Hvar. I chose Hvar because it was a good home base from which I could do day trips to other islands if I so desired. Croatia is similar to Greece in the sense that there is the mainland (think Athens) but the real action is being on the Dalmatian Islands (think Greek Cyclades).
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Partial view of Dubrovnik our apartment.
We chose to stay outside of the City Walls so we could wake up to a beautiful view everyday.
Please note: for a great view, be prepared to climb MANY stairs. We considered it our daily exercise. |
Dubrovnik is beautiful and is one of the most preserved medieval cities in the world. The City Walls, built in the 13th Century, transport you to another time and place. There are two entrances, one at Pile Gate, and the other at Ploce Gate, and it literally feels like you are walking into a castle. You can walk from one gate to the other in less than 20 minutes, but there are so many little alleys to get lost in, cute shops tucked away with trinkets to discover, little dessert shops with delicious treats, and charming restaurants with tables nestled to one side of the alley while people walk right by. The art galleries are incredible and we mostly found them near Ploce gate, it's definitely worth checking out. Although most Game of Thrones fans are attracted to Dubrovnik because so much of the show was filmed within the City Walls, we had no desire to visit the museums which we felt were overpriced tourist traps, but to each his own.
The Dubrovnik cable car experience is a must have experience in Croatia. It took us to the top of SRD mountain and allowed stunning views of the city and old town. There is a restaurant and a few shops on the top of the mountain, as well as trails if you choose to explore a bit. We decided to have lunch and really take in the view. The food was phenomenal and the prices were above average, but worth it for the experience. Croatia has it's own currency: 1US= 6.50 Kuna, so you definitely get more for your money while there.
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| Delicious Mussels on top of SRD Mountain |
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| Lunch views |
Speaking of dining experiences, if you decide to have a fine dining experience, you absolutely MUST visit 360 Restaurant, which was my first Michelin Star restaurant experience. I wish I could accurately describe this sensory culinary experience but you're just going to have to trust me and go. Our dinner came out to $127USD AFTER gratuity so I'd say it's well worth it.
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The best dessert I've ever had. #360Restaurant
We tried going back the next day just for this dessert but it's not allowed. |
One of the places I was most intent on visiting was the Love Stories Museum. I'd read that this museum displayed the love stories of historical figures, tv characters, and people around the world in present day. I wanted to visit because I feel like I am constantly bombarded with negative content about love and relationships on social media, and as someone who is admittedly jaded, I sometimes struggle to believe in the possibility of true, loving, lasting relationships - and this is coming from someone who has the kindest and most compassionate partner a person could ask for. This museum was an experience I would treasure forever, and I mostly loved reading the real life love stories from people all over the world.
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| Beautiful love notes from couples around the world |
Finally, there are beautiful beaches in Dubrovnik and while we could have explored more, we choose to save that for Hvar. We relaxed at Banje Beach, which is quite touristy but the highlight for me was the ocean side table massages! Listening to the waves crashing nearby while getting massaged transported me to another world. This beach is also known for its nightlife but honestly, we were too lazy to leave our apartment at 11pm so we decided to leave that for Hvar as well. Interestingly enough, despite our best efforts we never actually had a night out. The most we did was walk by a couple bustling bars, watch some drunk 20-something year olds make a fool of themselves, eat ice cream, and head back to our room. What can I say, I guess vacation is different when you're in your mid to late 30's.
Stay tuned for my blog on Hvar!
