All posts by Romeo Demes

Romeo is a passionate writer and traveler from Croatia. He started traveling since he was 6 years old and it became a habbit. He travels at least once a year to a different country, but it`s how they say - no place feels like home. Besides traveling, he is a free time blogger and contributor to various travel related blogs. He writes about famous places he visited, but most of the time about his hometown Croatia, to motivate people from all over the world to come and visit this little gem in Europe.
Cultural and Historical Heritage, Editor's Picks, Europe

Getting Around Split – The Residence of a Retired Roman Emperor

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There are a number of international flights to Split airport from around Europe. Many people come to experience the varied wonders of Split, and Croatia as a whole each year, and it is no wonder, with the many sunshine hours, mild temperatures, picturesque scenery and fascinating historic and cultural sights on offer. Split Airport is second only to Zagreb airport in Croatia and sees many people flow through it, especially in the summer, when the number of visitors increases dramatically. In summer, charter flights from around Europe swell the number of scheduled flights to the country.

split croatia

Getting to Split from Split Airport

The Airport is actually about 25 km west of the city itself, close to the town of Trogir. Fortunately, it is very easy to get to and from Split airport with taxi transfer, a popular option among tourists and there are public transport options like buses also available. Airport buses run from the terminal to Split city centre – they stop at the east end of ‘Riva’ and the fare is around 30 kn. Local buses also run from the public road just outside the airport and are a cheaper option, though you must change buses to get all the way to the historic centre and they can be a little hit and miss, so it is almost certainly not worth it for the casual tourist.

split coast

Transportation options

A taxi from the airport to the ferry port or Diocletian’s Palace in the centre of old Split will take around 30 minutes and should cost around 270 kn, though drivers will often agree to 220 kn if you agree a price up front. Pre-booking a taxi is often a good idea as you will often get a better price doing it this way. A Split airport taxi transfer will also ensure that you are able to meet your return flight, if you are not happy to rely on public transport, or if your plane leaves in the middle of the night, when buses do not run.

split above

Diocletian’s palace

It is easy to get around the historic centre on foot, and this is indeed the best way to see it. Walk around the harbour area, Diocletian’s palace and the old town’s maze of streets. It is also a good move to rent a bike and use that to transport yourself up Marjan’s hill, along the Riva (waterfront of Split) and even out on the ferries onto the islands in the Adriatic if you so wish. Buses will take you from Split’s historic centre to any of the more modern outlying districts that you may wish to visit.

split night

Excursions from Split

Outlying attractions can easily be visited by bus or car. Be sure to take the opportunity during your stay to visit the castle villages of Kastela, and the Roman city of Salona, both of which can be reached by bus, taxi or under your own steam if you choose to hire a car. It is worth noting that if you buy your bus ticket from a kiosk rather than from the driver on the bus, then it is a little cheaper. If you are going to spend more than just a few days in Split, it is recommended to take a short bus trip to the vibrant and relaxing Vodice, where you can enjoy the famous Blue Beach and party in the evening.

So, as you can see, getting to and from Split Airport and transport in and near the city is easy and trouble free. So book your flight today, and come and explore this sublime city.

Editor's Picks, Europe, Travel Tips

Vodice – Vibrant and Relaxing in Equal Measure

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Vodice is favoured by the balmy mediterranean climate experienced by all the towns and cities on the the Croatian coastline. It is a hopping tourist hotspot, surrounded by gorgeous beaches and natural wonders – no wonder then that so many, young and old, choose to visit or move permanently to this terrific town.

Whether you live for the hustle bustle of the summer season, with beaches to luxuriate on, the yacht-filled marina to meander through and taverns, cafes and clubs galore, or prefer the more sedate side of life, with cultural sites, Roman ruins, National parks and fascinating wildlife of land and sea, visit Vodice to find exactly what you are looking for.

vodice

Perfect place for sunseekers

In summer, Vodice is vibrant and fun-filled. Many fulfil their fantasy of the perfect party-hard vacation in Vodice. During the day, the beaches are filled with sun-seekers and swimmers, and the warm nights are long and filled with music. Tourists go for excellent seafood meals at Vodice’s many fine restaurants, and drink in a relaxed tavern or busy bar before adjourning to a club to dance until the wee hours in a hedonistic bacchanalia that, while wild, retains a relaxed and happy vibe.

vodice beach

Nights full of music and dancing

If you are looking for excitement and adventure, then Vodice can offer it in abundance. Vodice has more to offer than sunbathing. People play on the beaches, and recreate on and under the sun-sparkled Adriatic sea. Why not play tennis or volleyball to burn off those extra holiday pounds? Swim from the beaches, or try diving beneath the blue waters to see the submarine world, teeming with life, or go fishing, sailing, jet-skiing or banana boating above the waves.

Surfing is also popular, and kayaking can be a good way to see the town from a seaward perspective. Or why not venture away from the coast a take a tour inland – bicycling is popular in this varied region. Pick up a biking map from any tourist office in Vodice and you will see the wide variety of tracks available nearby for a range of abilities and fitness levels.

vodice nightlife

Property hotspot for retirement

If you are considering looking for a retirement property, then Vodice could be a very good choice. In the summer, you can enjoy the maelstrom of the tourist invasion and make the most of the fun in the sun, blessed beaches and vibrant lifestyle, while when the tourist season is over, you can enjoy the quieter and more relaxed side of this terrific town.

Vodice has plentiful and varied real estate on offer. Whether you are looking for a larger new build property, a stone town centre villa, or a seaside apartment, there are many exciting deals to be had. So consider Vodice when searching for property in Croatia, and come and experience vibrant and yet relaxing Vodice for yourself.

vodice croatia

The beaches stretch along the whole town of Vodice, and varies along its length. Some of the beaches are pebbly, some rocky, some enjoying sun-drenched terraces on which to spread your towel. One of the most popular stretches is Plava plaza, a Blue flag beach and the recipient of an international ecological award. Another popular stretch is Hangar beach. Both beaches have a range of facilities including bars, restaurants and you can easily access anything you might require as you relax and soak up the sun.

Rich history and culture

If you are a fan of history and culture then you will enjoy the attractions of the town itself – the old parish churches, 17th Century Coric Tower, and the wells on the water springs round which settlement in the area was centred. Near Vodice you can see several more pretty historic churches, and stone field cottages, for example those at Raso’s bunja. Many amazing archaeological sites are to be found near Vodice, including remarkable Roman ruins.

vodice culture

From Vodice you can also visit some of the most spectacular natural sights in Croatia at the Kornati and Krka National Parks. Sail to the beautiful Kornati Islands, or experience the scenic splendour of the waterfalls and lush greenery of Krka National Park inland. Wildlife enthusiasts will also enjoy the Falcon centre in the pine forest of Dubrava.

Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

Island of Krk – Discover the Hidden Paradise

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Golden Island, as it was called since ancient times, Krk represents one of the largest island on the Adriatic Coast and the one with the most developed economy. Since 1980 the island is linked to mainland via a sustainable bridge. Island’s landscape is highly diverse – the north is almost a pitch of desert due to its strong winds, while the southern part abounds in green vegetation and creeks. Relief favors the cultivation of grapes as well as the creation of the famous “Vrbnicka Zlahtina” wine, which is exported to several regions in the country.

island of krk

Tourist facilities include modern resorts such as huge Omisalj, Njivice and Malinska on the northwest coast and historic towns which preserve plenty of medieval features on the east coast, such as Krk and Baska. If you cannot travel to the island during summer, then you should know that spring and autumn are also ideal seasons – if the weather is on your side you can do plenty of sea swimming in June, September and October. On the island there are several marked trails that will take you through forests as well as seashore paths. It is also worth exploring the underwater world as there are several diving-licensed clubs in Krk, Croatia.

The main administrative center is the city of Krk Island, a city founded before the Romans have settled on the island. Main attractions of the city include the Cathedral of the Assumption in XIII-XVI, Romanesque church of Sv Kvirin (XII century), a fortified castle and a Franciscan monastery. If you are staying longer than one day you can find various accommodation options that will suit your needs. In case you are looking for a longer stay or even thinking about living on this beautiful Island, Krk has some real estate agencies which can help you out.

Baska

Baska is the best resort on the island of Krk, the largest island in Adriatic. Its position assures continued prosperity so Baska is
among the top 10 destinations in the Adriatic. The resort is located inside a smooth valley, in a bay surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. In the background anyone can observe the Velebit mountain, which is ideal for climbing, hiking and mountaineering. Beach is presumed to be only 2 km away from the city, being just one of the 30 beautiful Adriatic beaches which are available to visitors and locals.

krk4

Vel a Plaza, the main beach, is located inside the city center and is surrounded by bars, restaurants, cafes and hotels. Natural beach made of pebble is ideal for children and those who cannot swim. One can rent pedal boats, umbrellas and sunbeds.

In Baska there are several museums, cultural and sports facilities. They originate from one of the oldest and most impressive cultures in Europe. Baska was originally a Romanian place, being located on the area where it is found today. Much of the original town was destroyed by Venetians. In the early sixteenth century the new town Baska developed on the site, greeting visitors with plenty of attractions. There are a few houses from the sixteenth century in there which are still in very good condition and nowadays are used as shops. Not far from the town lies the church of Sv Lucija, where the famous inscription was discovered.

krk 2

Malinska

Malinska is a tourist resort located on the western side of the island. Its name was derived from “Mlin” which means windmill. Beach resort consists mostly of gravel. For entertainment there are available various nightclubs, including the popular Crossroad. Promenade Rajska Cesta expands on a distance of several miles and enables visitors to rejoice from beautiful feet walks or bike trips.

krk 5

KRK Island also offers few interesting places for those interested in scuba diving, such as:

  • Peltasis (1968)
  • Punta Silo – for beginners but also for experienced divers (3-35 m)
  • St. Marak – 18-22 m – includes fishes and octopus.
  • Vrbnik cave – the cave entrance lies at 15 m depth
  • Tenki reef – maximum depth is of 40 m
  • Kamenjak – two rocks found at a distance of 25 m; diving is possible up to 35 m deep.
  • Glavina – a beautiful location found at 25 m depth

Most certainly, Krk island in Croatia is a beautiful place worth exploring. Furthermore, it is perfectly suitable for those who want to escape city’s conglomeration and move in a tranquil place where plenty of entertainment and relaxation options are available.

Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

Adriatic Paradise – The Coast Which Has It All

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Have you ever visited a place so magical and other worldly that it robbed you of your breath every time you rounded a bend and took in a new sight? No, I am not talking of a fairy tale wonderland but the irrepressibly beautiful Mediterranean country of Croatia with its long and undulating Adriatic Sea coastline speckled by a thousand islands of all shapes and sizes. If there ever was a sailing paradise anywhere on the world, then this coast wins that designation hands down.

Adriatic Sea

What Makes Croatia’s Adriatic Coast so Special for Sailing?

There is no one reason why sailing off the coast of Croatia comes at the very top of the list of many adventure and thrill seekers. It has the sights, the history, clear blue waters and its central location in Europe makes travel easy and convenient for travelers from all around the world. In short, the following is a running summary of the major reasons why sailing around this enchanting coast should be at the top of your holiday plans.

1. Dalmatian Island Hopping

If Croatia had nothing else to offer the discerning visitor other than its embarrassingly rich collection of islands, it would still command worldwide respect as one of top travel destinations on the globe. Sailing from one end of what is more popularly known as the Dalmatian coastline to the other you will be treated to an unbelievable cornucopia of islands, some of them large and densely populated, others teeming with untamed verdant vegetation and yet others dry and rocky, bereft of all forms of life. The one common denominator is that they are all beautiful to behold with the surrounding azure waters making them stand out in their majesty.

island hopping

The most popular of Croatia’s islands are Brac, Korcula, Hvar, Mljet and Vis. Each of them has its own unique flavors which draw visitors by the droves every year. Sailing from one to the other, popularly known as Dalmatian Island Hopping, is an enduring passion for adventurers who never tire of exploring the region year after year. Almost every one of these islands is ringed by beautiful sandy or pebble beaches. While the major islands are interlinked by a regular ferry service, the bet way to explore the region is aboard a chartered boat. You can charter your own boat from the myriad boat charter agencies in Croatia’s cities such as Dubrovnik or Split.

2. Tour Croatia’s Magical Cities

The historical and cultural heritage of Croatia is quite unprecedented in terms of scale and variety too. Indeed, Croatia has more UNESCO protected cultural heritage sites than such established and ancient European nations as Germany, Italy or France. The most significant of these are walled cities pristinely preserved since their heyday back in the middle ages. If you want a trip back to antiquity and travel back wholly amazed, just book the next flight to Croatia and you are in for one hell of a ride.

magical cities

3. Savor the Tastiest Mediterranean Fare fresh From the Sea and Vineyard

Croatia has an enduring seafood culinary culture as intriguing as the best of Greek Islands or the Mediterranean coast of Italy. The best of seafood dishes are tempered with even more delightful influences from Croatia’s interior offering everything from game meat, vegetables and dairy products as well.

delicious cuisine

If you are passionate about sailing and adventure in general, you will love the great experience of touring Croatia, a country located conveniently at the meeting points of Central Europe, Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. With its unequaled landscapes, scintillating culture and a historical heritage quite unmatched by any other destination in Europe, there is every reason to go on tour to Croatia if you have never been there and also to make a return visit if you have tasted its delights in the past.

Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

Europe’s Ultimate Sailing Destination

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Croatia has established a solid reputation as the go-to destination for vacationers, holidaymakers, adventurers and tourists. Every year, millions of travelers flock to the Adriatic country to enjoy its various attractions. Unfortunately, many of them still haven’t discovered Croatia’s best open secret i.e. that the best way to experience the country is by sea.

ultimate sailing destination

With a stunning coastline of over 1,100 miles and a total of 1,267 islands, Croatia is basically a sailing paradise. Among the savvy sailing enthusiasts, the country now fondly referred to as “Europe’s ultimate sailing destination”. Here’s why:

    • Endless Variety

Croatia is one of the most endowed countries in the world in terms of sailing attractions. The country boasts of a total of 1,246 islands, some of which are the most beautiful in the world. The country is also dotted with beautiful harbors, lagoons and berths where boats, yachts and even cruise ships can dock. There are rivers like Cetina and Krka which offer a wealth of adventurous attractions including grand canyons, ancient caves, crashing waterfalls and historical sites.

croatia sailing

The waters around Croatia’s coastlines possess a graceful, almost idyllic beauty. They are emerald blue, and are graced by spectacular reefs, and rare, unique aquatic life. The country boasts of numerous island national parks (e.g. Mljet, Krk and Konarti) which contain colorful plants, graceful birds and some sought-after endangered species. There are also romantic island attractions like Rab, Vis and Lopud. What makes the country truly special is not just the sheer variety, but the ease of access to its different natural wonders. As such, if you take a sailing excursion in Croatia,, you are basically spoilt for choice.

    • Unique Experiences

A Croatian sailing expedition is can expose you to a wealth of natural attractions which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. One such attraction is the picturesque sunset of Zadar. Popularly described as “the most beautiful sunset in the world”, watching the sunset is an experience that cannot be got anywhere. There is also the famous Sea Organ, the only organ in the world which is played by the sea. Listening to the haunting tunes played by Mother Nature herself is a truly elating experience.

unforgettable experience

And then there is Greeting to the Sun, a fusion of art, technology and creativity which transforms solar energy into a spectacular lightshow. There’s also the Theatrum 5D, a virtual tour of Dubrovnik featuring videos, holograms and lasers. This is a 35-minute high-tech exploration which is unrivaled in the world. These are attractions of which there is no equivalent in the world, let alone Europe. Therefore, the experience of visiting, watching, listening and feeling the aura of these attractions is truly unique to Croatia.

    • Fun and Adventure

Croatia is the one country which offers endless opportunities for people who are looking to have a good time. The country is dotted with thousands of pristine beaches where tourists can relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Some like the Zlatni Rat in Brac Island are famous for their breathtaking beauty. Others like Papaya and Calypso in Pag are renowned for their all-night parties.

istria croatia sailing

The country is also a popular destination for people interested in water adventures such as parasailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing and so on. There are also mountains, national parks and islands where people can go hiking, biking, trekking, bird watching, game viewing and even picnicking. There are also numerous annual festivals such as the Hideout Festival which is one of the top electronic music festivals in the world. Others are the Soundwave Festival, Electric Elephant festival and Dubrovnik Summer Festival. All these festivals attract thousands of visitors annually.

golden horn beach

In a nutshell, besides the joys of the sea, sailing offers you an opportunity to experience the best of what Croatia has to offer. There are numerous options for anyone who wants to go sailing in Croatia. There are a number of companies which organize categories of sailing expeditions from adventurous excursions to ultra-luxury cruises. However, if you want the ultimate sailing experience, then the best option is to rent a boat or yacht and sail to your preferred destinations. There are numerous charter companies which offer boat rental services at very affordable rates.

Destinations, Europe, Luxury Travel

An Adventurer’s Guide to the Hidden Gems of Croatia

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After many years of playing second fiddle to the more pretentiously marketed Mediterranean tourist destinations on the Italian and French Riviera, Croatia is finally rising from the shadows and claiming its rightful spot as a place of wonder, enchanting culture and pristine beauty. Spurred on by eye catching commercials, thrill seekers from all round the world flock to the Balkan country in droves each summer to explore the glorious spread of Dalmatian Islands which bedeck the Adriatic coastline of Croatia.

Hidden Gems of Croatia
The raving popularity of such Croatian islands as Hvar, Vis, Mljet, Kokular, and Brac is such that in recent years, it is no surprise to hear them being mentioned in the same breath as Monaco, Ibiza, Genoa and Saint Tropez. But are these all Croatia has to offer? Most certainly not! There are well over a thousand islands and islets along the Dalmatian coast, most of them virtually unknown but no less intriguing for the avid explorer. Here is a glimpse of three such hidden gems of the Croatian coast to whet your appetite.

  • Lopud, Elaphiti Islands

In medieval times, legend has it that the Dubrovnik aristocracy made Lopud their weekend playground. This culture endured well into late seventeenth century when Lopud slowly slipped off the limelight. Today it is a laidback, serene place where everything and everyone moves at a carefree, leisurely pace. The island is comparatively tiny (only 5 kilometers square) and has a total human population of less than 200.

lopud croatia

lopud croatia 2

With no cars and just the barest modicum of modern infrastructure and conveniences, there is no better place to play Robinson Crusoe for a few days but still be within a stone throw away from every luxury and creature comfort you could conceive of. As you embark off on the ‘vilagey’ harbor with gently rocking fishermen’s boats, you will feel as if you have just taken a trip back in time. Take to one of the dusty paths and you will need to pinch yourself to believe that the bustling city of Dubrovnik is half an hour away by ferry.

  • Pag, North Dalmatian Islands

Pag is the antithesis of everything you have been led to believe about the Dalmatian coastal region. Rocky and almost bereft of all signs of vegetation or habitation, the landscape is eerily more reminiscent of Martian wastelands than Mediterranean opulence.

pag croatia

pag zrce beach

You might be wondering by now why the island is worth a visit after such a stark description. The biggest attraction of Pag is the Zrce beach; a pristine sandy beach which requires firsthand experience to appreciate just how wonderful it is. Many of those who have been there say Zrce is the next Ibiza and for all intents and purposes, it is hard to contradict them.

  • Galesnjak, the Island of Love

Located in the Pasman Channel just a short distance from the mainland town of Turanj, Galesnjak is arguably the crown jewel among all the verdant islands on the Adriatic coastline. The island is reputed to be the most heart shaped of any natural land formation in the world. A privately owned island, Galesnjak is gaining runaway reputation as the most sought after wedding location in the world.

island of love

  • The Best Way to Explore the Hidden Gems of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast

With dozens upon dozens of islands and islets dotted along its rugged coastline, Croatia has a complex network of ferries and taxi boats which provide means to across the major islands and coastal cities. While these might suffice for someone just looking for a random sampling of the Dalmatian delights, those looking to experience specific Croatian gems need more personalized means of travel. For such people, the best option is to rent a boat or gulet from the dozens of charters which operate in the region. A chartered boat offers you all the time and convenience you need to explore these hidden gems of the Dalmatian coast at your leisure.