Tag Archives: Croatia

Destinations, Food

7 Delicious Food Destinations You Should Visit in Your Lifetime

Leave a comment
Food Destinations

7 Delicious Food Destinations You Should Visit in Your Lifetime

Seeking the perfect blend of culture and cuisine is an art form. If you’re planning a trip this year, consider these top foodie stops to experience one-of-a-kind fusion flavors and discover recipes perfected over centuries. Here are seven global food destinations sure to please your taste buds.

1. Valencia, Spain

Sample nightlife, beaches, and never-ending meals full of ambiance all in one spot. Valencia has a flavor for every mood. Discover a new version of the culturally-renowned dish — paella — every day as you explore essential city sights and architecture. The most authentic version of the dish includes a flavor of saffron, rice, and a variety of meats and seafood. Expect nothing except caught-that-day seafood and market-fresh vegetables in Valencia.

Don’t forget the luxurious glass of wine with your evening meal or midnight tapas as you overlook the glowing Mediterranean Sea.

2. Oahu, Hawaii

Food Destinations

Venture to the other side of the world for a slightly different flavor. Sure, you have to sample the trademark Hawaiian fruit — pineapple! But get ready for a lot of guava — you’ll find this ingredient everywhere on the island, and it’s to die for. Other Oahu staples include sushi, poke, acai bowls, and Kalua pork.

On a budget? Cook your meals with market-fresh ingredients or eat local and walk your way through the best food on the island. Don’t forget to cap off your meal with a chilled bowl of Hawaiian shaved ice or a fresh coconut and relax while you watch the sun go down on the beach in true laid-back island style.

3. Sydney, Australia

What do Oahu and Sydney have in common? Both have citizens who boast roots from every nationality. This sets Sydney apart from other Australian destinations, making it a logical magnet for global cuisine and travel. It’s hard to choose one type of dish that signifies the typical Aussie food experience. Think edgy Asian-inspired menus with lamb, kangaroo steak, or juicy fresh prawns at the forefront. Sydney is a port town with unbeatable tourist attractions, culture, and shopping. It’s also a great central location if you plan to tour other destinations in Oceania. Don’t forget the lamingtons for dessert!

4. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Food Destinations

Puerto Vallarta is known worldwide for its epic beaches and resort hotel hot spots. An unexpected perk of cruising through Puerto Vallarta — it’s a gourmet food paradise. Expect quaint traditional cantinas on one end of the foodie spectrum for low-key authentic evenings. On the other end, it’s easy to find glamorous multi-course meals and black-tie dinners. For a different vantage point, some of the best meals are found at sea. Puerto Vallarta is a great starting point for a sunset dinner or culinary cruise.

5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Food Destinations

Ask a local tuk-tuk driver to point you to their favorite pho restaurant and go from there. If you can’t decide between Asian and European flavors, this is the place. Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is Vietnam’s culinary jewel. With historic French influence, you can eat your way through the city holding both a baguette and a banh mi, so take your pick! Expect true Asian flair with a French twist — every meal in Saigon is memorable and unique. It’s worth signing up for a cooking class in the city so you can bring the flavors with you when you go.

6. Naples, Italy

Foodie travelers automatically seem to flock to Bologna — voted the “Foodie Capital of the World.” But sometimes the best dining destinations are underrated, and this next locale is no exception. The city of Naples is a sometimes-missed jewel on the southern coast of Italy — and it’s a foodie triple threat. It has wine to die for (think grapes grown in volcanic soil in nearby Pompeii); it’s home to the simple but spectacular Margherita pizza; and it’s often missed by travelers who overwhelmingly seek destinations in the North located closer to classic tourist spots.

7. Tokyo, Japan

Food Destinations

Last but not least, for a truly unforgettable culinary vacation, you absolutely must eat your way through Tokyo. Relish the joy of sampling fresh sushi or sashimi in all its glory. It took centuries to perfect the art of detail in every dish, so savor each moment. While you’re there, don’t forget to find a great eel restaurant and try a vibrant teppanyaki dinner. The Japanese take their food seriously — expect nothing but perfection in every bite.

Our top seven food destinations are the perfect addition to your travel bucket list — so pick your top gastronomic hotspot and pack your bags!

Europe, Travel Blogging

5 Best Croatian Seaside Cities

Leave a comment

Croatia is a country that is among the top tourist destination with the main attraction being the rich cultural, history and wonderful beaches. One of the most unique features of this country is that it is home to many islands with the mainland and touring these islands give a person a lifetimeadventure. Majority of visitors to Croatia chose to tour the big cities however the beauty and culture rich places lies in small towns. The beaches in these towns are smartly marked with first-rate hospitality from local people and boat charter make the exploration to these places unforgettable and easy. The following are some of the best Croatian seaside cities.

1. Dubrovnik

This is one of the big city in Croatia and is characterized by rocky beaches and steep cliffs which make this town one of its kind. The city wall gives the locals a spectacular place to dive into the rocky water which is near the old town. There are several top class hotels that offer that chance for a person to enjoy the luxurious beach experience.

2.Brela

Brela is a municipality town with the best beaches and it is located northwest of Makarska and one of its beaches Punta Rata was named top ten beaches in the world in 2004. The landmark of this town which appears on a postcard as a unique feature of this place is the Brela stone covered beautiful pine tree. Another unique attraction of this town is Biokovo Nature Park locate about twenty minutes drive from Brela and offers a perfect day walk.

3. Omis

Omis is a small town located southeast of Split and it is well known for its rich traditional culture which is a key attraction to the visitors in this area. The town host many outdoor activities like rafting, Zipline and Kayaking. There are also two distinguishing monuments Fortica and Mirabella fortresses which give visitors a chance to view the town all around.

4. Hvar island

Hvar is located at the cost of Split and its beaches are lovely which are rocky and sandy with many people preferring rocky beaches. What makes the rocky beaches favourite to many people is due to their clear water and people walking there cannot have sand on their body. There are wonderful beach clubs which offers a brilliant chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful view of the area.

5. Primosten

Primosten is a small town with a small population and it is famous for rural tourism due to its beauty. The Dalmatian tradition is a key attraction with its music, music instrument and also the tradition of domestic animals in the area. This town attracts especially young people due to its night activity like parties and live concerts. The traditional Folklore concert which is held in the main town square is a significant Attraction in the area.

There is many more seaside town in Croatia with attractive beaches and many visitors all over the world visit these places for their holidays and vacation. Many people visit during the summer season and it is, therefore, advisable for a person planning to visit a different part of Croatia to make an early arrangement. The bottom line is Croatia is indeed among the best place to visit.

Europe, Food

5 Best Food You Should Try When Visiting Croatia

Leave a comment

A great way you can connect with the culture, essence, and flavor of Croatia is by tasting local dishes. Croatia is a country full of culinary delights hugely influenced by many different cultures including the Mediterranean and Central European traditions.
Croatian cuisine is geographically distinct, with each part of this country having a distinctive regional delicacy. In addition, there’s a big emphasis on preparing meals homestyle and on making use of fresh seasonal ingredients in restaurants all across the country.
On your Croatian culinary discovery, your palate will be met by spicy meat stews to light seafood fare, Croatia’s own pasta, as well as bizarre’ bites! For all the foodies out there, we’ve prepared a list of 5 meals you should try once you’re in Croatia. Be sure to pair the dishes with local wines for a complete dining experience.

1. Dalmatian Peka

Courtesy of www.total-croatia-news.com

Ispod peke’ is something you should try at least once when you visit Croatia. Peka is a word that actually refers to a specific way the ingredients are prepared. Popular in Dalmatia, Peka is an ancient traditional slow-cooking method that combines chicken, lamb, veal, or octopus and vegetables with a generous drizzle of olive oil. The dish is then left to cook over an open fireplace. Fresh herbs White wine and fresh herbs can be added for that extra flavor. The dish is left to simmer slowly in its own juices until the meat is tender. Cooking using this method knocks out Croatia’s most loved, divinely tender dish by the same name.
Most local taverns feature peka on their menu.

2. Ćevapi (or Ćevapčići)

Cevapi is a famous food in the region and certainly worth a try when you’re in Croatia. This small finger-shaped and tasty grilled skinless seasoned sausages are usually made with a combination of both beef, pork, and lamb, and served with chopped raw onions and spices, kajmak (a soft creamy cheese) and ajvar (a relish made from-peppers) on flatbread. The heritage of this dish is Middle-Eastern in origin.

3. Brudet

Courtesy of www.sailingeurope.com

Sometimes called “brodeto” or “brodet”, this dish is a rich fish stew from Croatian regions of Istria, Dalmatia, and Kvarner. This traditional fisherman’s stew is a perfect summer delicacy and hails from Italy’s Marche region.
Brodet is made all-year round and comes in various versions. It typically consists of at least 3 types of fish and tomato-based sauce enriched with garlic, onion and white wine. It’s usually served with polenta as a side dish which soaks-up the tasty fish broth.

4. Zagorski Štrukli

Courtesy of www.recepti.hr

This is a traditional delicacy popular in the regions of Zagreb and Hrvatsko Zagorje in northern Croatia. Its inspiration probably comes from the Turkish borek and Austrian strudel although this meal is now distinctly Croatian.
The Zagorje specialty is composed of a flat, thin pastry and various types of filling, like eggs, cheese, and sour cream. Štrukli resembles a kind of strudel which can be made either as a savory or sweet dish. Sugar is usually added when preparing the sweet version of the dish and it is then either baked in the oven or cooked.
A real true traditional Croatian meal and the capital’s signature bite, this humble cheese, and cream pastry is even proclaimed an intangible cultural icon by Croatia’s Ministry of Culture, all the more reason you should try it.

5. Black Risotto

Courtesy of www.chasingthedonkey.com

Known locally as crni rizot, this dish is a popular cuisine in coastal Croatia, particularly in Dalmatia. Black risotto is basically a rice dish prepared with squid, garlic, red wine, and olive oil and is quite similar in some ways to Italian risotto. This dish is special for the deep-black color it gets from squid ink, which gives the cuisine an intense seafood flavor. It can be prepared also with other types of seafood like octopus or cuttlefish or even shellfish like mussels and clams.
Bon appetit and be sure to explore more including the Croatia property market!

Europe, Travel Tips

Taking a Vacation in Croatia

Leave a comment

Taking a vacation in Croatia

It was my enthusiastic dream for many years to take a vacation in Croatia at least once in my lifetime. I’m glad to say that my dream came true last year and one thing I’ll state unequivocally is that I had a home away from home experience during my visit to Croatia.

Croatia was indeed an amazing destination for my vacation. I could not have enough of the pristine beaches & palm groves, mountainous coastlines, clear waters of the Adriatic sea, spectacular architecture, numerous islands, sublime food, and most importantly, the hospitality of the Croatian people.

The following are some of the amazing things I did and the places I visited in Croatia.

Island hopping

With more than 1200 islands, I needed my whole lifetime to explore all the Croatian islands. But still, I tried my best. Every island I visited was special in its own way. Some islands offered the peace and quiet I had longed for. Others offered 24-hour parties, so whenever I wanted to experience Croatian nightlife, I never missed an island that offered unforgettable parties.

The first island I visited is the island of Brac. The splendid beaches, sheep cheese, seafood and mandarins in this destination will leave you yearning for more. I proceeded to the sunny island of Hvar. With its natural beauty, luxurious beaches, sunny weather, and excellent food, this is a destination I never wanted to leave. The island of Korcula, Krk, Losinj, Cres, Silba, Lastovo and many more had one thing in common; they offer an amazing paradise for travelers looking for a sunny island adventure. Hopping between islands was very simple since ferries, waterboats, and catamarans were readily available.

vacation in croatia

I explored Croatian National Parks

Out of the eight national parks in Croatia, I had an opportunity to visit three of them. The Plitvice Lakes National Park was really a stunning place one can ever visit. I took a bus from Zagreb and within two hours I was at the park. It was boundless funmeandering along the many wooden plank trails, taking pictures of the furious waterfalls and the 16 interconnected lakes. Thereafter, I took a day trip to the Krka National Park where I fell in love with the glistening waterfalls and boat excursions. I winded my national park tour by visiting Paklenica National Park where the largest mountain in Croatia is found.

vacation in croatia

I discovered history of Croatia

Despite being a small sized country, Croatia has seven UNESCO Heritage Sites where I got an opportunity to learn about the culture of Croatia. I visited all the seven historical sites and discovered many things which i never knew about. If you’re considering visiting Croatia, these historical places are worth visiting.

Sailing in the high seas

I’d say that a vacation in Croatia won’t be complete without sailing in the high seas. With my one month stay in this wonderful country, I learnt that it is a sailing paradise for people who love the activity. I rented a waterboat with crew at a very reasonable price. At the sea, my eyes were drawn out to the waters that seems to go forever. Sailing in Croatia gave me a lifetime chance to explore the coast and enjoy its beauty. I anchored just anywhere and soaked in the cool waters of the Adriatic sea. I alsodiscovered beautiful bays, hidden coves, and deserted islets. I also enjoyed fresh seafood in remote bay restaurants.

I discovered Croatian foods and wine

If you’re a foodie and you haven’t visited Croatia yet, you are missing mouthwatering, diverse and glorious foods. Most people in Croatia use seasonal ingredients and their food is indeed unique. Croatian cuisine is more of a Mediterranean cuisine consisting of fish, seafood, veggies and tasty olive oils. Istria had very delicious olive oils.

I fell in love with various traditional dishes such as brudet (fish stew with spices) crni riot, seafood served with blitva, mišanca and homemade pasta.

I also participated in loads of activities such as kayaking, rafting, kite-surfing, truffle hunting, zip-lining, rock climbing, golfing and paragliding.

I never wanted to go back to my home country, when my vacation was over. Croatia had numerous things to do as well as many places to visit. It is an amazing country. Certainly, it will be my obvious destination during my next trip and I cannot wait to take another vacation in Croatia.

Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

Kornati: Nautical Paradise in Croatia

Leave a comment

Set amid jewel blue sea, the 89 islands, reefs and islets of the Kornati National Park create a true nautical paradise. If you want to take in all of these islands then your slalom sailing skills will be well and truly put to the test.

About the Kornati National Park

The idea for creating a National Park in Kornati was first mooted in 1965. From the very beginning, the aim with this national park was to preserve a region of unspoiled natural beauty. Sheep farming and wine making used to be the main pursuits on these islands, however now restaurants, tourist guest houses and welcoming bays are the main attractions in Kornati – alongside the gorgeous scenery of the Adriatic coast.

kornati croatia

Amazing natural beauty

The Kornati National Park is home to some wonderful biodiversity. Species of particular interest that you will find in this area include the Eagle Owl and the Yellow Legged Gull. There are no less than eighteen different butterfly species spread out amongst the islands and plenty of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and beautiful plants. Whether you want to explore some caves or stroll on a sunny beach, take a dip in the inviting waters of the sea or go bird watching amid wildflowers on a grassy plain, this National Park will have plenty for you. This national park is also home to some very intriguing geological features, and so geologists come from far and wide throughout the year to unearth fossils, crystals and exciting rock strata.

A rich palimpsest of history

These islands are steeped in history. Before the Croats arrived around a century ago, there were Neolithic and Paleolithic populations, for instance, and the ways in which the various cultures have interacted over the years have resulted in a wonderfully diverse cultural atmosphere. Make sure to take a look at the traditional houses and pastures when you visit these islands, and to try a traditional dish or two at once of the delectable restaurants on the larger islands (there are over 20 restaurants to choose from so you will not go hungry!). There is so much to explore here!

kornati islands

A nautical paradise

As you can tell from the above, the Kornati National Park most certainly lives up to the epithet of ‘a nautical paradise‘. Combining natural beauty with biodiversity, and ample opportunities for sailing and water sports with a relaxed and culturally rich way of life, this National Park is a very desirable holiday destination. So why not pay a visit to the islands for your next holiday? You can either rent a yacht in Croatia and go exploring on your own or book a guided boat tour. Remember to bear in mind that an island pass will be needed in order to visit any and all of the islands that comprise this marine park.

Everyone who comes to Kornati discovers something new, whether that is a butterfly or a flower, a great spot for swimming or having a picnic or a wonderful geological feature. What will you discover when you decide to take a boat trip around the gorgeous islands of Croatia’s most famous ‘nautical paradise’?

Destinations, Europe, Travel Blogging, Travel Tips

Europe’s 8 Most Overlooked Small Cities With A Lot To Offer

Leave a comment

It is no secret that London, Rome, and Paris are magnificent cities with beautiful features, supreme highlights and much more. However, Europe has inexhaustible small cities that give travelers a more intimate and authentic view of the country. As much as the Capitals are obvious highlights, squeezing the small cities into your itinerary will spice up your stay. Here are 10 of our absolute must-sees.

  1. Rovinj, Croatia

Seamlessly located on the Istrian peninsula, Rovinj is a beautiful archipelago of 20 islands with its town hemmed in on a small peninsula. Quaint alleys, stairways, and other interesting architecture frame the silhouette of its adventures. Other historical gems include St Euphemia’s Basilica, seven city gates and the 12th-century town clock.

Rovinj
Rovinj

 

  1. Caceres, Spain

If you are still speculating on where all the gold went to when Spain was under siege, much of it went to building the mansions, cathedrals, and palaces that are tucked away in beautiful Caceres. This off-the-beaten-track city boasts of an abundance of features including Ciudad Monumental, Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, and Via de la Plata. Here, you will love the architectural blend of Roman, Islamic and Italian revitalisation styles.

Caceres, picture from http://www.turismoenextremadura.es/conjuntos-historico-artisticos-caceres/
Caceres, picture from http://www.turismoenextremadura.es/conjuntos-historico-artisticos-caceres/

 

  1. Heidelberg, Germany

Situated in the vale of Odenwald mountains, Heidelberg is a chocolate-box and starry-eyed getaway city. Its most extraordinary features include the historic old town, numerous historic churches and the University of Heidelberg. Every inch of this spot is filled with history, from narrow streets to the scattered parks and much more.

Heidelberg
Heidelberg

 

  1. Porto, Portugal

An old city slipped away on the Iberian Peninsula; Porto sits between Douro River estuary and has been under foreign control for more than a millennium. Consequently, it has been nominated under the UNESCO world heritage and the buildings that snake through the streets are about as remarkable as anything you have ever seen. In fact, Porto has become an iconic name for a brand of wine sold through its port.

Porto
Porto

 

  1. Trondheim, Norway

Trondheim is a one city in Scandivania that is so picturesque- they say a picture tells a thousand words but Trondheim tells even double. It’s just spectacular. You will need 24 hours to explore the numerous sites in it and another 24 hours to visit the neighbouring area.

Trondheim
Trondheim

 

  1. Groningen, Netherlands

With approximately two bikes for each resident and a town centre that’s in effect inaccessible by motorists, Groningen is categorically the best place to keep fit. It also brings together some of Europe’s bet features including an annual festival and nightlife as vibrant as its people.

Groningen, image from http://typta.com/
Groningen, image from http://typta.com/

 

  1. Manarola, Italy

Manarola is a charming fishing town famous for its exclusive wine, Sciacchetra. It is one of the most peaceful towns on earth- no traffic lights, no screeching cars, no hooting of vehicles. This is because there is no vehicles access to the city area. To visit the city, you will take a bus or walk on foot after having parked your car outside the town.

Manarola
Manarola

 

  1. Split, Croatia

Split, a jewel in the Croatian Adriatic, is in a prime location in Croatia because it is close to a couple of beautiful cities such as Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Sibenik. Also is surrounded by the beauty of Croatia’s hidden gems, such as the city of Trogir which people say is mini Split, Čiovo which is a beautiful island with mountains that visitors enjoy immensely. Of course, you can take a blue cave tour from Split to the island Bisevo. Blue Cave is an iconic sea cave that travelers visit very often and even go scuba diving there. The specialty about this cave is of course, the blue light that magnificently portrays itself due to the sunlight reflection on the water through a crack in the cave. It is spectacular and a must see destination.

Split
Split

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cultural and Historical Heritage, Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

Trogir: The Hidden Gem of Croatia

Leave a comment

Trogir is a harbor town in Split-Dalmatian County, Croatia. The town is also a World Heritage Site since the year 1997. As of the year 2011, the official population of this town stood at 10,818 people. The town lies 27 kilometers west of the county’s main administrative city, Split.

History and Culture

This city has a checkered history. It was founded by the Greeks in 3 BC and evolved as a major port. From the tenth century towards the nineteenth century, Trogir was greatly influenced by the Italian city-states of Genoa and Venice enjoying both commercial and cultural ties with both cities. It was not until the year 1797 that these Italian ties were severed on account of the conquest of Europe by the Hapsburg Empire. The city was reckoned as a unit of the Hapsburg Empire until the end of World War One.

historical building trogir

After 1918, this city linked up with the states of Croats, Serbs and Slovenes to form the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. Later conquests by Italy during the Second World War, annexed this town to be a district of Dalmatia, Italy. After Marshall Tito’s army occupation from 1944, it was recognized as a territory of Yugoslavia and from 1991 as part of Croatia.

The city has a rich culture with an abundance of Renaissance works and architecture. Its most iconic building is the Church of St.Lawrence that embodies the influence of the Romanesque period in Croatia. In the same vein, it is in Trogir that some major work of Roman literature-Dinner of Trimalchio was discovered in this ancient town.

Accommodation and Getting around

Trogir has an excess of more than 20,000 beds stretched out over hotels, private villas, and apartments. Reservations and contact with private home owners are the modes of securing your accommodation whilst in this haven. One can shuttle by a regular bus service that serves this town or elects to lease a car or a taxi. The public transport system in this metropolis is excellent.

trogir croatiaa

Local food and wine

The local cuisine is oriented to seafood: mussels, shrimp, and roast fish. There are also meat specialties like sour marinated beef, beef cooked in sauce(tomato), ham, sheep cheese, salty sardines, roasted lamb, and sauteed greens and potatoes complete this rich motif of the local cuisine. To top up all this is the rich wine which is a product of the rich Dalmatian soil. The wine is produced by both individual families and private enterprises and follows traditions that are strictly passed on from one subsequent generation to the next.

local food wine

Things to do in Trogir

To fully appreciate the riches on offer in this ancient city, try out the following activities:
* Visit the Duke’s palace;
* Visit the Cathedral that has the works of Master Radovan, one of Croatia’s greatest artists;
* Go visit the city core that has ten churches and marvelous architectural sites that mark major epochs in architectural history
* Rent a boat or yacht from a Croatia charter and visit the nearby islands like Ciovo, Solta and Drvenik Veli.

These are some of the sights and sounds that you can expect to feast your eyes on when you visit this historic city, enjoy!

sailing trogir

Destinations, Europe

Sibenik, Up and Coming New Destination in Croatia

Leave a comment

If you are looking for a new town to go to in Croatia, you may want to go to Šibenik. It is a city located in the Croatian coast, just 80 kilometers north of Split. It is deemed as among the most ‘naturally protected’ harbors in the Adriatic coast as it is located in the ‘deep bay’. Although Šibenik is less popular than Split and Dubrovnik, it is as beautiful as the two former cities—and real estate in Sibenik is relatively cheaper than most of the big cities in Croatia.

Sibenik
A view of Sibenik

This town possesses a unique personality. There are many activities and sights that you can enjoy when you visit Sibenik. You can feel the vibrant and youthful atmosphere as you enter this town. Despite the fact that its streets are just small, you will surely be amazed by the type of architecture that it was built with—stylish and classic.

Sibenik Cathedral
One of the famous attractions in this place is the cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was built in 1934 and is a significant architectural ‘Renaissance’ building in Croatia. Built with marbles and limestones, Sibenik cathedral is definitely a sight to behold.

Sibenik Cathedral
Sibenik Cathedral

Bunari
This attraction is made of complex water reservoirs. It was built in the 15th century, mainly for the water supply of the town. Today, Bunari is already dry and functions as a museum and a café. It is a place where tourists can take pictures, or just hang out with family and friends. People can also watch concerts at its café.

Medieval Monastery St. Laurence’s Garden
This garden is a haven for different kinds of plants, particularly those used as species and in pharmacies. If you want a quiet place where you can stay and unwind, you can hang out at their café. You will be able to enjoy the lovely view of the old Sibenik, plus the serene atmosphere and the calming waves of the sea.

Kornati National Park
Kornati National Park

Krka National Park and Kornati National Park
Another tourist spot to visit when you are here is the Krka National Park. What can be seen here are magnificent sceneries of waterfalls, flora, and fauna—plus archaeological and historical remains. Kornati National Park is also a wonderful tourist attraction because of its undersea and several islands.

Krka National Park
Krka National Park

Things to Do
Sibenik is blessed with wonderful beaches. This is why swimming is among the activities that many tourists enjoy. There are also many tourist spots that are worth visiting—Cathedral, National Parks and beautiful gardens ( refer to the previous paragraphs). Cafes and shops are also everywhere in the town for tourists who want to sip a cup of coffee or buy souvenir items.

Among the items that you can buy in Sibenik are CD containing Klapa choir’s songs, traditional Sibenik’s orange and black cap, and high-quality olive oil and dry figs. You may also want to visit Dalmare mall, among the most famous malls in Sibenik.
Culinary Culture
Sibenik is known for its diverse culinary culture. It offers a wide variety of gastronomic attractions. The town, which is a major wine producing region is also known for its Italian, Mediterranean and European cuisines. Pelegrini, Tomaseo and Gastro Italiano are three of the most famous restaurants in Sibenik.

Everybody knows Split and Dubrovnik, their beauty is remarkable but there are others cities in Croatia that are much less popular but quite the same in beauty and activity. Cities like Rijeka, Osijek, Zagreb and of course Šibenik. Check them out next time you go to Croatia, you won’t regret it.

Europe, Travel Tips

Dalmatia – The Mediterranean Paradise

Leave a comment

You’ve probably been gearing up for a visit to Europe and perhaps wondering what exotic destination to visit on your cruise. Well, the Dalmatian region in Croatia is a second-to-none target destination. Dalmatia’s popularity is exhibited by the large number of cruise liners and charter fleets that visit the region, especially during the peak tourist season that spans July to August. It also attests to the value that a visit to the region offers to tourists.

dalmatia 1

An ideal starting point on your cruise to Dalmatia is Split. Locals christen Split as Dalmatia’s capital. A look at the exciting attractions on offer in Split will quickly point out why it is so popular. A visit to Diocletian’s Palace will unearth Croatia’s historical past, a cultural heritage enlisted by UNESCO. Other historical gems like The Old City Centre comprise of architectural masterpieces that are worth visiting.

Ideally, the numerous magnificent structures in most of Dalmatia, especially its northern part each have a story to tell. For instance, Vodice in North Dalmatia remains one of the most popular cruise destinations in Croatia, accounting for numerous tourist visits yearly. In fact Vodice has previously been awarded the “Tourist Flower” an award offered to cities or places that are the most attractive to tourists. This is a testament to Dalmatia’s standout experiences.

dalmatia 2

Hvar is Dalmatian island that makes for a unique offer. Hvar is arguably the longest Island in Croatia, featuring an expansive coastline that is very beautiful. The clear beaches are a great prospect for an evening walk or some sun-bathing. Talking of the sun, the Mediterranean climate in beautiful Hvar, and most of the Dalmatian region provides an inviting appeal to many tourists. You can also enjoy a nature walk in the unspoiled parks that make up Hvar, where you can sample the scented olives in the calming atmosphere. In fact, a visit to Hvar would be incomplete without a trip to the world-renowned Devil’s Islands. This collection of islands surrounded by narrow bays and shallow water offers a warm and tranquil experience. Even if you are merely coming into Hvar for a day’s visit on your cruise trip, the secluded beaches offer great and varying spots for your family to nest.

Anyone (young and old) visiting Dalmatia will find something exciting in the area. Kids can enjoy an amusing semi-submarine ride where they can view the rich coral life existing underwater without getting their feet wet. Adults can take a boat offshore and engage in various relaxing activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling. For those who would rather stay on land, a visit to the many historical sites in Dalmatia is an eye-opening opportunity to learn about Croatia’s history. You can also have chat with the locals who are always eager to engage visitors. You will be amazed by the friendliness of Croatia’s people, and their pride in the resort cities that are always teeming with life.

A cruise to Dalmatia would be incomplete without sampling the food. The choice of high quality cuisine is very expansive and so is the variety. You can expect to come across Italian delicacies, Greek fare as well as most of the Eastern European favorites you can think of. In fact, visitors are often spoilt for choice in terms of expertly prepared food that whets everyone’s appetite. As such, you can enjoy a sundowner with your friends in many of the resorts available in the Dalmatian region while downing these great treats. The staffers in the resorts are also very hospitable, making every guest feel at home and thereby enjoy their experience.

dalmatia 4

The expansive coastlines, numerous beautiful Mediterranean islands, historical sites, loads of fun-filled activities, and great cuisine make Dalmatia a top pick for any tourist intending to cruise around the Adriatic Sea. Visit Dalmatia and learn more about these unique sites and the exciting prospects available.

Cultural and Historical Heritage, Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

Zadar: Whispers of History and Sea Organs

1 Comment

Zadar

Old town of Zadar

The City of Zadar is located in the south of Croatia. It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean with a world famous harbor. Zadar is on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, because of its beautiful sights and the influences of the Roman culture, which are very much visible in the city itself. Its total population is about 75,000 inhabitants. With its Romanic forum, historical buildings and long, beautiful beaches, Zadar is the ideal tourist destination.

The old town of Zadar is perfect for trips and sightseeing tours. It is located on an half isle and surrounded by Venetian walls. Especially the “fountain square” with its Corinthian statue is a must see destination. Zadar has also a lot of museums to offer, like the Museum of Science, or the Archaeological Museum of Zadar and many others. The churches in this city are also as beautiful as numerous. There is, for example, the Church of the Holy Anastasia, which was built by the Romans in the 13th century, that is famous for its paintings and well-handcrafted marble altars.

Zadar_Forum

Ruins of Roman Forum and Church of St. Mary in background

From unique paintings and churches, to the most unique and interesting thing in Zadar to see, the sea organs. First installed in June 2005, the organs make a unique noise, when sea waves pressure air into the “organ holes” in the ground. As different the speed of the waves is, the different these organs sound, making a sound natural and unique, as the nature itself. Not far from the sea organs, the same architect installed a circle of 22 meters with 300 accessible glazed flagstones, which absorb the sunlight and provide an incredible light after the sunset.

zadar_sea_organ

Famous sea organs

Especially for sailors, Zadar is a must visit destination. The many islands which surround Zadar are ideal for people who like to discover new places and sail by their own. The untouched nature, as well as the beautiful landscape, is unique in the Zadar area. The shapes and outlines are impressive. The island Galesnjak, for example, has the shape of a heart and has an untouched nature, which just alone is worth a visit. Nin is just 17 kilometers away. This old lagoon town is connected with the mainland just by bridges. These are just two of many more islands that surround Zadar.

When you decide to visit Zadar, you will be delighted to see, that the Zemunik Airport is about 10 kilometers away from the main bus station and 12 kilometers away from the city center. It’s also possible to rent a car, if you come from a country which is allowed to drive in the European Union. There is a direct bus line between the airport and the main bus station. This line costs 25 Kuna, which is about 3 Euros or 4 Dollars. Another common transfer possibility is the taxi. The taxis are the fastest way to go around in Zadar, but will cost you about 20 Euros or 22 Dollars. If you wish to visit the districts of Borik or Diklo, it is highly recommended to use taxis to get to these districts, because if you would take the bus, you would be forced to change the bus at the bus station.

Kolovare_beach_Zadar

Kolovare beach

Zadar is a city which has been influenced by the Roman culture. It has a lot of beautiful churches, the Romanic forum, the old town with its Venetian walls, as well as the very individual and interesting sea organs. Zadar is a city with many specters and facets, but still modest and beautiful, and that makes it the perfect destination for your next holiday.