Category Archives: Luxury Travel

Luxury Travel

Tourist Attractions in Santa Barbara that Offer the Perfect Setting for a Vacation

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Santa Barbara, a beautiful a city on the central California coast, is a major tourist attraction in the US. Santa Barbara is a favorite among tourists looking to spend quality alone time. Tourist Attractions in Santa BarbaraThe destination is also a popular New Year’s Eve getaway with its relatively warm weather offering a hospitable abode to tourists escaping the wintery chill. If you are planning a getaway and are wondering what to see in US, rest assured that Santa Barbara will completely live up to your expectations and offer you the perfect setting to ring in the new year.

State Street

State Street, Santa Barbara

The State Street is one of the most visited places here. With over 300 shops and 160 restaurants, the street is known as the shopper’s paradise. However, more than the shopping, it is the ambience and vibe of the street that makes it a standout among other shopping districts here. While you can take the convenient electric shuttle, we recommend that you walk your way through this awe-inspiring street.

Water Fun

Santa Barbar Sailing Center
Santa Barbara Sailing Center

This city is known for its water sports and adventure activities, and if you too enjoy these, the Santa Barbara Sailing Center is the place for you. Kayak rentals and stand up paddle board rentals are most affordable and you can spend a day out even if you are visiting during the winter. One of the best things to do here, water fun can be an immersive, adventurous activity.

Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara Zoo

Also known as an “animal spa”, the Santa Barbara Zoo is a beautiful place with no cages, beautiful grounds and many interactive features. With over 500 animals from 160 species, the Santa Barbara Zoo is among the most frequented tourist attractions for families.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

One can enjoy a 360 degree view of the lovely city from Santa Barbara County Courthouse tower. You can take an elevator to reach the top of the tower.

Moreover, the courthouse is a working courthouse which makes it all the more interesting. The ramparts, circular staircases, and tile work were aesthetically pleasing, offering an awe-inspiring milieu to tourists. The walls of this courthouse are decorated with paintings from famous artists, such as Van Cina and Allan Gilbert.

Cabrillo Bike Path

Cabrillo Bike Path, Santa Barbara

The Cabrilo Bike path is a hit among the tourists looking for a tranquil 3 mile ride all by themselves. Cabrillo Bike path’s attraction is its vicinity to the ocean. If you are looking to explore the natural beauty of this city and other hamlets at your own pace, we highly recommend cruising along the Cabrillo bike path. While summers are the best time to enjoy a ride, the fun and excitement is no lesser during the winters.

Food & Drinks

Helena Avenue Bakery at 131 Anacapa, Santa Barbara
Helena Avenue Bakery at 131 Anacapa

The restaurants and hotels here offer wide range of cuisines that’s sure to appeal to a diverse culinary tastes and preferences. We recommend you to visit the Helena Avenue Bakery at 131 Anacapa St for some mouth-watering sandwiches and pastries. Other restaurants frequented by tourists include Yoichi’s, Lucky Penny, Downey’s, The Black Sheep, The Lark, and Bouchon.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

An educational and entertaining tourist attraction, the botanic garden gives visitors an opportunity to explore a variety of habitats. While West Coast flora remains a key point of interest, the garden also hosts redwood forest vistas and ridges. You can also buy souvenirs from the on-site retail shop; we recommend taking some locally made wildflower honey back home!

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum 

If you are game for watching maritime documentaries and movies, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum can be the ideal place for you. This tourist attraction should be on your itinerary if you are travelling with your kids.

Shoreline Park

Shoreline Park, Santa Barbara 

Santa Barbara coastline, a majestic view of the mountains, playgrounds, and barbeques – these and much more await you at the Shoreline Park in this city. The entry to the park is free and you can enjoy a day out at the beach.

These were some of the best Santa Barbara attractions. If you are planning a trip to Santa Barbara, these tourist attractions can offer the ideal setting. If you know of any attractive unique tourist attractions, do let us know in the comments section below.

Asia, Festivals, Luxury Travel, Travel Tips, Travelling with Kids

Have an extraordinary Seasons Holiday with incredible things to do in Thailand this Christmas

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Incredible Things to do in Thailand This Christmas

December is here and you can sense the onset of festive vibes, the anxious waiting for the season holidays to start, to get together with loved ones and celebrate the joyous time. It’s Christmas and most people would plan on having the typical white Christmas vacation and travel to western places where Christmas is a grand occasion – everywhere you go, its snowflakes, Santa clauses and Christmas trees. Though the festival at western destinations are an elaborate celebration, for travelers, visit such places in December means less amenities and earlier closing time as everyone would be enjoying  Christmas with their families. Most shopping areas and entertainment spots will be brimming with crowd and the weather can be unpleasantly cold. December month also means a break from work and stress for most people, hence travel plans during this season should also aim on de-stressing from routine life style, and relaxation.  This year, why not try something new this Christmas? Take a detour from usual and plan a tropical Christmas vacation in Thailand. The climate would be perfect for a day at the beach plus there are lot of ways to make your vacation a relaxing one, away from the buzzes and chaos of festivities. Check out these selected ideas for an idyllic Thailand Christmas escapade.

Continue reading Have an extraordinary Seasons Holiday with incredible things to do in Thailand this Christmas →

Asia, Australia, Editor's Picks, Luxury Travel

Luxury Around the World

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Len Rutledge

Luxury and experiential travel are changing the travel industry and the way many people think about travel. While trips to see grandma will always occur, family trips today are often camping safaris through Africa or visits to remote lodges in Bhutan.

Today’s travellers are braver than ever and are prepared to travel well off the beaten track. They are looking for something unique and individual.  As new destinations emerge, traditional tourist hotspots and resorts have to rethink their approach in order to stay relevant.

I have just returned from Luxperience, an unmissable annual get-together for all those associated with the high-end travel industry. It was a meeting which exposed all the newest and best operators, and showed where this growing part of the industry is heading.

I have selected five products which show the level of luxury and diversity that is now available to world travellers. Any of them would be an experience of a lifetime for most people.

Deccan Odyssey

This is a luxury train in India comprising 21 luxuriously appointed coaches; 11 are to accommodate guests and the rest are used for different purposes such as dining, lounge, conference car and health spa. All the cabins of Deccan Odyssey are fully equipped with air-conditioning, internet connectivity, and personalized guest amenities that make sure that your journey is a comfortable and memorable one. There are two restaurant cars available which serve Indian, continental and oriental delicacies.

deccan

There are six itineraries which travel to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an excellent vineyard, palatial residences, sun-kissed beaches, magical cities, and tranquil backwaters. All is done with the luxury and pomp that only India can muster. Truly, this is the journey of a lifetime.

Over the Top

This New Zealand helicopter company based in Queenstown provides more than just a helicopter ride. You can visit alpine glaciers and remote lakes, for hiking, boating, extreme golfing, winery visits, heliskiing or fly fishing. For guests wanting an interaction with some distinctive New Zealand characters, you can fly with eco-guides, chefs, artists – genuine New Zealanders who delight in making your stay a once in a lifetime experience.

over-the-top-golf-tee

One activity that is gaining in popularity is Over the Top Golf. This provides access to New Zealand’s most picturesque golf hole. Nestled at 4500 feet in the New Zealand alps this par 3 hole overlooking Queenstown has four tee boxes so you can attempt your hole in one. Players have to fly in, drive, chip and putt out on the top.

The Racha

This deluxe island hideaway in Thailand is set on a pristine beach on Racha Island 18 km south of Phuket. The resort features 85 luxurious villas and strives to be recognized as a leader in responsible and environmentally sustainable tourism. The island is known for its natural beauty and for its excellent corals and marine life. It is also a wonderful place for relaxation and for doing nothing.

lighthouse-pool

Many rooms have a large living area and a spacious private terrace. Each villa is superbly designed and features a luxurious bathroom and a rain-shower outside. The Earth Cafe is a contemporary chic international café serving Western and Thai food in air-conditioned comfort or on the terrace. Sunset Beach is a casual restaurant serving local specialties and snacks for lunch and fresh barbequed seafood and steaks for dinner right next to the beach. Firegrill is a fine dining restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine.

R.M. Williams Tour

R.M.Williams was an Australian hero who did much to put the Australian Outback on the map. His famous boots became a symbol of toughness and style which continues to this day. The Tailor, in conjunction with R.M.Williams, has designed the ultimate tribute to RM Williams. In RM’s Footsteps is a 4-day journey which traces his personal history, telling the story of how he created the famous leather boots now sold around the world.

This amazing trip offers guests a rare opportunity to explore the legend of RM Williams by visiting several magnificent Outback destinations, such as the Flinders Ranges and Lake Eyre, enjoying traditional country hospitality and eating delicious regional cuisine. Guests travel in ultimate luxury aboard a Swiss-built Pilatus PC12 aircraft.

nilpena-station-with-the-flinders-ranges-behind

The trip begins in Adelaide with a private tour of the RM Williams workshop, factory, and museum, plus a chance to be fitted with your own boots, clothing and other bush apparel. You will receive a complimentary pair of Craftsman Boots. Another highlight is a visit to the historic Nilpena Station, a tour of the nearby red desert dunes, and a rare visit to the heritage listed Ediacara fossils made famous by the likes of Sir David Attenborough.

The Strand Cruise

On a languid journey along the Ayeyarwady River, the new luxurious Strand Cruise reveals the core of Burma in exceptional comfort. Cruise itineraries include 4 nights from Bagan to Mandalay and 3 nights from Mandalay to Bagan. While cruising you can clear your mind with a rejuvenating massage, or relax by the swimming pool. Enjoy the magnificent sunset from the upper deck while the sommelier delights you with a wide variety of wines. At dinner, the Chef will take you on a journey through refined cuisine.

slide-strand-cruise-b

Pampering and relaxation are the goals of the spa. You can heighten the experience with a massage in either an individual room or share the experience in our double room. The foot reflexology station will leave you ready to take on a new day of exploration and discoveries. The fitness room comes complete with treadmills, weights, and other gym equipment; everything needed for an invigorating workout.

Excursions allow you to explore the royal cities of Mingun, Amarapura, and Ava by horse-drawn cart; take in landmarks such as the U Bein bridge; and marvel at the enduring beauty of the country’s innumerable temples and monasteries.

Further information:

Deccan Odyssey: http://www.deccan-odyssey-india.com/

Over the Top: http://www.flynz.co.nz/

The Racha: http://www.theracha.com/new/index.htm

R.M.Williams Tour: http://www.thetailor.com.au/rmwilliams/

The Strand Cruise: http://www.thestrandcruise.com/

www.LenRutledge.com

Infographic, Luxury Travel

Economy vs Business vs First Class – Everything You Need To Know [Infographic]

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We’ve all done it. Walked onto the plane and longingly glanced to our left toward the mysterious curtain into first class, only to be led away into economy.

When you see just how much first class can cost, it can really get you thinking: “What is it through that curtain that could possibly justify paying so much!?”

Is it as simple as a couple of free drinks and some comfy cushions? Or is there something they’re not telling us!

Well, wonder no more, as SilverDoor serviced apartments have put together this infographic to give you a peek behind the curtain and see exactly what separates economy, business, and first class.

The Benefits Of Each Class

The benefits of each section of the aircraft vary a lot depending on the airline, length of the flight and type of aircraft, but they’ve come to some general conclusions about what you can expect from each.

One of the things most of us complain about the most when it comes to flying is the legroom, so it’s understandable that this is one of the benefits that you’d look out for first!

On a standard economy flight, you can expect to find around 29 to 34 inches of legroom, and 17 inches of width in your seat, which really isn’t all that special!

Make the jump up to first class and you can expect as much as double the legroom on some flights, as well as an extra 2 to 3 inches width as well as a reclining chair that might even turn into a bed.

The menus for your in-flight meal will also differ quite considerably, with dishes designed by the likes of Michel Roux Jr. and Gordon Ramsey such as roast dinners, seafood dishes and curries.

A far cry from those foil trays you can expect on an economy flight!

See The Benefits & Perks For Yourself

To see the full range of benefits and perks business and first class can bring, check out the infographic below.

Economy vs Business vs First Class – Everything You Need to Know – An infographic by the team at SilverDoor.co.uk

Luxury Travel

Luxury Gyms as a Growing Market for Fit Globetrotters

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So, you have decided to hit the road. Sure, it sounds nice now – saying goodbye to everything, but a lot of questions arise when you decide to make that decision. What are you going to do with your training sessions? Where can you find a job? Do you think that you can find a job easily in, say, Tokyo?

These may be some of the questions running through your head, but you have to know that there are simple answers to them. Keep reading and find out which are the most exclusive luxury gyms in the world, with only the best amenities in which you as a fitness instructor-globetrotter can find a job.

1. Quads Gym, Chicago (USA)

If you want to find your peace in the United States, make sure you head straight to Chicago first, because you will stay there for good. Quads Gym may be the greatest gym in Illinois (in fact, in 2005 it was declared one of the 10 best American gyms) and is famous for being the official weightlifting home of Ed Coan, the greatest powerlifting legend in the world, who has set over 71 world records. The very fact that you would be working in a gym that fostered one Ed Coan truly inspires an awe.
quads gym chicago

2. Original Temple Gym, Birmingham (UK)

This 62 years old gym, founded in a Birmingham basement, accepts all people who find themselves fit to train there. It consists of a unique combination of old school equipment and the newest high tech gadgetry. One of the biggest pride they have is the original Nautilus equipment.

temple gym birmingham

3. Tiger Muay Thai Gym, Thailand

If you area of expertise includes martial arts, Tiger Muay Thai Gym should be your final destination. Their high-standard luxurious martial arts programmes offer the most perfect setting for training. Its amenities include even yoga, strength training equipment, truck tires, heavy bags, as well as large conditioning facilities. Their unique payment system includes paying for how much you have used their services, that is, for the time you have spent in their facilities and used certain amenities.

Tiger Muay Thai Thailand

4. Symmetry Gym, Dubai

The experienced team in Dubai-based Symmetry Gym is one of their biggest prides, but not the only one. Their facilities house “only state-of-the-art equipment, that is maintained at the highest standards”. Their philosophy includes long-term commitment in order to achieve the perfect bodily shape, and they also take care of your mind and psychological state in order to achieve the best results. Indeed, they offer symmetry between body and mind.

symmetry gym dubai

5. Titan Fitness, Sydney (Australia)

One of the best features Titan Fitness gym has is that it appreciates quality. This elite gym was founded 26 years ago, and since its inception it valued customer service as their top priority. This is why there are even facilities which include child care, free healthy eating programs, and the best staff in the world. They may actually be the freshest personal training group in the whole southern hemisphere, so make sure to check them out if you find yourself in the neighbourhood.

titan fitness sydney

No matter if you plan to leave your hometown for good, or just want to spend a few years away from home, fear not that you will not find a good job somewhere in the world. As you can see, there is a plethora of luxury gyms in the world which look for experienced trainers and instructors, meaning that there is room for you in at least one of them. Do not hesitate and give them a call.

Europe, Luxury Travel

Neil Emilfarb’s Hidden Paradise Exposed

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Located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, in the Southeastern region of the Europe, Montenegro is a relatively small country with an upper-middle income status and a tremendous potential for growth. This potential is solely concentrated on the Montenegrin tourism industry, since this country’s number of visitors is on a constant growth. One of the main reasons behind this occurrence is definitely the complex called the Dukley Gardens, a real estate investment that caught the attention of media worldwide.
 Neil Emilfarb's Hidden Paradise Exposed

Mr. Neil Emilfarb, an American investor and founder of the Stratex Group, found this piece of paradise in a phase of development, while the local government was still struggling with the translation to an open market economy model. The town of Budva, nestled between mountains and sea, famous for its ancient monuments and well preserved medieval fortress, and a popular destination because of its sandy beaches and a very active nightlife, is the very center of the Montenegrin tourism. During the year 2013, Budva reported almost a 4,500,000 overnight stays, and a total of almost a 700,000 of tourist visits. That number is on a constant increase, and for the small city of no more than 14,000 people, this number of visits is astonishing.

The Dukley Gardens

Some of the most popular beaches on the south Adriatic are located right here. However, if you are looking for a little bit of privacy, you can still find secluded sanctuaries nearby and enjoy in the serenity of this wonderful place. The most beautiful and completely private beaches are located inside of the Mr. Neil’s real estate complex, the Dukley Gardens.

Neil Emilfarb's Hidden Paradise Exposed

For the residents of this complex, there is a great variety of services available. There are tennis courts, pools and find many other activities offered for your convenience; or you can visit one of the restaurants and a lounge bar which is situated in a sandy beachfront, in the shades of palms and cedar trees. The panoramic views from this place will encaptivate you, and an obvious presence from centuries old societies that left their mark on the town of Budva will make you believe that you’ve wandered off in a timeless haven.

The great thing about Dukley Gardens is that this place welcomes families as well as individuals. The younger crowd will have no trouble in finding some excitement as well. It is designed for every need or desire possible, so if you are looking for a day-care center – you will find it inside of the complex, with educators and animators available for your child’s needs and amusement. If you are looking for a good time – the old town of Budva is a regular host to some of the greatest pop stars, and even movie stars like Steven Seagal, are known to visit their residences as well.

Neil Emilfarb's Hidden Paradise Exposed

So if you are already planning your 2016 vacation, consider Budva as your destination. The Dukley hotel will be open for business by that time, and if you are a yachting enthusiast, you will have no trouble finding port here. In fact, it is one of the popular Adriatic destinations for yacht owners too. With beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an amazing cuisine at affordable prices – this hidden paradise will offer you peace, amusement, and memories that will keep calling you back to Dukley all year round.

Infographic, Luxury Travel, Travel Planning

Private Jets Don’t Just Have To Be For The Famous

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When the discussion of private jets comes up, it’s usually in regards to the the lavish and extravagant lifestyles of the rich and famous. Donald Trump, Oprah Winfrey, Harrison Ford…They all travel by private jet. In fact, Donald Trump’s private Boeing 757 is estimated to be worth around $95 million and comes complete with double beds, a sofa lounge and a marble bathroom.

But because of this impression, many deals on flying via private jet go unnoticed (I know for a fact I wouldn’t be looking at flying privately for my next trip) but maybe, just maybe, flying by private jet doesn’t actually have to be so expensive.

According to an infographic from BuddyLoans, if you do your homework then there are deals to potentially be had. For example, traveling for business or as part of a large group of people? An entire private jet can cost from as little as £800 going up to the $2,000 price range (entirely depending on airline, type of jet, etc) which could average out at around £145 a person. Can you fly business class for that amount?

Looking outside of the price range and there are so many benefits to flying private. For example, you can have a much more negotiable baggage allowance instead of having to adhere to the very specific weight requirements per airline and you can also have a much more minimal time to wait for departure.

Any frugal traveler out there will be away of the sites that allow you to compare the prices of flights on different airlines, but do you know there’s also price comparison sites for private jets? jetsuite.com are a good example of this. Also, if you have much more flexibility in your availability of when you can fly then you’ll be more likely to be able to snap up those cheaper, last-minute or random timed flights. Flying on empty leg flights is also a possible solution for anyone looking for a deal on private jets. Empty leg flights are when the private jet is booked for a one way journey and must fly back in order to board its next passengers for its next destination. You can usually expect to save up to 75% when choosing to fly on an empty leg flight.

Check out the infographic below for loads of more information on how to save money when flying private – you’ll be amazed.

how-to-get-a-deal-on-a-private-jet

How to get a deal on a private jet [Infographic] by the team at Buddy Loans

Destinations, Festivals, Luxury Travel, Travel Tips

Punta Cana’s colorful vibes and landscapes

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What is the first to pop up in your head when you think about the Dominican Republic?

If you answer white-sandy beaches and a blue, pristine and clear sea you are correct!

But, what if you add to those attributes some happy and sticky music, fancy costumes and good vibes?

sdds
Click on image to hear the official carnaval’s song

In case you can’t here the song: https://soundcloud.com/puntacana-resort-club/carnaval-punta-cana-theme-song

It’s celebrated on the 2nd Saturday of March at Boulevard November 1st, located in Puntacana Village, opposite The Punta Cana International Airport. The celebration begins with a parade of international delegations from Aruba, Curacao, Haiti and Saint Martin, as well as a selection of the very best from the Dominican Republic.

The parade features more than fifteen of the top carnival troupes and is alive with colorful costumes and masks to showcase the cultural traditions and folklore of the country to thousands of locals and tourists from around the world. A live concert features music styles such as merengue, bachata and reggaeton marked the official end of Carnaval.

Entrance to the Punta Cana Carnaval is free, but tickets to sit on a stage during the event are available for purchase.

bachata and reggaeton marked
Click on image to hear the official carnaval’s song
punta cana
Click on image to hear the official carnaval’s song

This is one of the many attractions Punta Cana has to offer.

Since there are so many things to do, besides the classic scuba diving and romantic walks on the beach, you have to book yourself a worthy place which meets all your most demanding needs and desires.

Please check all our properties we have across all the island, for sure you will find an excellent match according your budget.

See some of our luxury villas by clicking the image:

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5O98AWrV2sw

For all other properties please click  on our logo.

Xunny Retreats
www.xunnyretreats.com
Destinations, Europe, Luxury Travel

“Allure of The Seas” : The Enchanted Biggest Cruise Ship

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People in the past might find Titanic as the biggest ship at the old time. Beside of the big size and all of its lux, this ship is well-known for its love story in a movie. People still remember it until today. In 2010, it came a new cruise ship, “Allure of the seas”, stating the biggest cruise ship which was noted as the best overall indivudual cruise ship in 2013.

allure of the seas

“Allure of the seas”, as its name represents the enchanting of the ship. It is a ship owned and operated by Royal Caribbean. As it is the biggest cruise ship, the width is almost 4 footbal fields. The ship can carry up to 6,296 passangers and 2,384 cruiseships. There are 2700 rooms in this ship which is the same as 775 rooms in Buckingham Palace. It has 16 passenger decks and it can go to the speed 22.6 knots (41.9km/h; 26.0 mph). It weighs 225,300 tons, or the same with 9,000 tanks.

This cruise ship is said to be the most innovative cruise ship in the world. This comes for a lot of entertainment and facilities offered by her. You will find high class service in its finest quality. To enjoy music, you can have Tony Award-winnning Broadway musical Chicago. This music will lead you to your finest mood and mind. You will forget seeing your watch by enjoying the performance. For you who are starbucks lover, you do not have to worry. “Allure of the seas” is the first cruise ship having Starbucks in. So, daily coffee is settled.

allure_of_the_seas4

If you bring kids with you in “allure of the seas”, you can take them to enjoy DreamWorks Experience by watching Kungfu Panda, Shrek, etc in 3D movies.

As it comes to dine, there are 25 different choices for you to have. You can choose any meal you want. If you want them all, you can have it by tasting in a small portion one by one. Still, you will be full. The food is vary from Mexican, Brazilian, and Royal Caribbean.

For you who like to be in the water, you can swim or playing in a FlowRider surf simulator. Feel the waves and the adventure. Your kids will love it. But, you need to guard them when you take them in.

Flowrider-allure-of-the-seas

The fun does not stop there. After playing with the waves, you can see the aerial acrobats in the Aqua Theater. It must lighten up your day.

Anyway, will you get bored on this luxurious cruise ship? Well, it might happen. But, do not worry! You can refresh your mind by going to the finest restaurant in it. Or maybe you can have a walk and stop at Candy shop.

Allure of the Seas

For you who like to view and print your bill, just go to one spot named guest kiosks. You can also check your schedule and reservations here.

Giving the feeling of comfort with all the entertainment and service given, it is not wrong to call it the best cruise ship to spend your time in a vacation. It can be a choice for you who want to have a family vacation.

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.