Tag Archives: islands

5 Best Croatian Seaside Cities

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.

Hawaii First Time: What’s The Best Island in Hawaii to Visit?

Deciding which Hawaiian island to visit for the first time you visit can seem a bit overwhelming. Each of the different major islands–Oahu, Hawaii island, Kauai, Maui–have something unique and different to offer travellers.

Oahu

Surfing at Waikiki Beach | © Alan Light/flickr
Surfing at Waikiki Beach | © Alan Light/Flickr

The beautiful island of Oahu offers the traveler many options. Whether you like the hustle and bustle of big city life in Honolulu; enjoy the serenity of nature in the magnificent Kuala mountains; or want to catch some surf vibes along the North Shore–Oahu has something for everybody!

On the island of Oahu, you’ll find a vibrant mix of culture, arts, and entertainment. There’s plenty of shopping available on Oahu. You can also visit museums, cultural centres, and even attend an authentic Luau.

If spending time on the beach is more your style–Oahu has a number of beaches that meet the needs of whatever beach style you prefer. If you like the busy beaches with plenty of people, bars, and restaurants then Waikiki Beach is a must. But if you prefer more to see a more laid back Hawaii–head to the North Shore and find beautiful sandy beaches with sea turtles, surfers, and unique Hawaiian eats.

Oahu is an island best suited for someone who wants the full Hawaiian experience. Urban explorers can wander Honolulu, culture absorbers will fall for the Polynesian Cultural Centre, history buffs can visit the hallowed grounds of Pearl Harbour, nature lovers can visit some of the greatest beaches and swim in some of the most magnificent water. It’s truly an island for everyone and is our choice as the best island for vacation in Hawaii.

Hawaii Island

Hiking Around the Cape Kumukahi Lighthouse | © Eli Duke/flickr
Hiking Around the Cape Kumukahi Lighthouse | © Eli Duke/Flickr

Hawaii Island, known as the Big Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian islands–with an area larger than all the other islands combined. This island offers unique biomes with eleven different climatic zones–you can visit sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains, and active volcanoes–all on one island!

The Big Island is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park–a national treasure and the largest volcano on the islands, Kilauea is a must see. You can go hiking and find waterfalls, natural pools, and lush green mountains on Hawaii Island. If you’re lucky, you may encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and whales.

Even the beaches of the Big Island have their own unique characteristics from the black sand on Punalu’u Beach, the white sand on Hāpuna Beach, to the green sand on Papakōlea Beach–these beaches really have something to marvel over.

Hawaii Island is best suited for the naturalist. The variety of climatic zones available on the island brings a depth of life that cannot be matched anywhere else. Active volcanoes, colourful beaches, and incredible landscapes await on the Big Island.

Maui

Sunrise at Haleakala National Park | © Courtney Collison/flickr
Sunrise at Haleakala National Park | © Courtney Collison/Flickr

Even hearing the name Maui invokes a relaxed, calm, island vibe. There is perhaps a no better word to associate with Hawaii than Maui. 30 miles of beaches, the ancient volcano–Haleakala, and the spectacular waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch are but a few highlights for those that wish to visit the old Hawaii.

Maui is a terrific year round destination with its mild, consistent weather allowing visitors to enjoy the island at its most brilliant. Beaches for every type line the island’s perimeter. Secluded beaches await those looking for privacy. The sports enthusiasts will enjoy the largest surfable waves in North America. Head to the windy side to take up your new favourite hobby of kiteboarding. Want to relax and spend a day on the water without the water thrashing your body–snorkelling meccas are everywhere.

The island is also home to some of the greatest hiking trails in the word. Maui is host to Haleakala National Park. Celebrating Hawaiian culture–both modern and ancient–the park offers a taste of history. Learn how the interactions humans make on their environment shapes the landscape. Don’t want to spend your time inside the fascinating museums–grab your backpack and spend a night under the darkest sky imaginable. Gaze up at the milky way with your naked eye as you fall asleep in the Hawaiian wilderness.

The people of Maui’s dedication to eco-friendly and sustainable farming means that a lot of the food produced on the island stays on the island. It’s a wonderful island for foodies as the locavore scene is exploding. Farm to table restaurants highlighting the glory of Hawaiian food culture dot the island.

Maui is an island best suited for the outdoor loving foodie. After a long day of hiking and exploring, coming back to your hotel, home, or camp with some of the tastiest local food imaginable…priceless.

Kauai

The Top View of Hanalei Bay | © ruthdaniel3444/flickr
The Top View of Hanalei Bay | © ruthdaniel3444/Flickr

Located in the centre of the Hawaiian archipelago lies Kauai. Perhaps the most beautiful of the Hawaiian islands–Kauai is home to some of the best beaches and mountain ranges in the world.

Kauai lays claim to one of the best beaches to visit in Hawaii. Hanalei Bay is a haven for water lovers. Surrounded by majestic forested mountains, to say this location is picturesque doesn’t do it enough justice. In the summer, the ocean’s waves calm and the water is as still as glass. Outside of the summer, surfers from around the world come to enjoy the beauty and splendour of Hanalei Bay.

Known as perhaps the most gorgeous landscape in the United States and perhaps the earth, the Na Pali coastline invites you to take in the lush, tropical environment. See this wonder of geology, with its rocky crags and dense, green foliage by sea, air, or, for the more adventurous, by foot along one of the greatest hiking trails in the world–The Kailua Trail.

Kauai is an island suited best for the adventurous and active. Getting out and interacting with this incredible island is key to the ultimate Kauai experience.

Vacation Rentals | © Pixabay
Vacation Rentals | © Pixabay

Choosing where to stay in Hawaii doesn’t have to be a difficult decision. Just think about what you want out of your next vacation. Whether it’s beaches, fine dining, city life, history, or wild landscapes–Hawaii has something for everyone. The best island for vacation in Hawaii is the one that will provide you with the most long-lasting memories that you can share with others.

Kornati: Nautical Paradise in Croatia

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’?

What to Expect When Visiting Islands on The Adriatic

Visitors to islands on the Adriatic Sea can expect to find delightful islands and top tourist destinations for those looking for holidays with an incredible mix of adventure, sun, and sea. There are many wonderful and scenic places for you to visit, from sun-soaked islands to their pristine hill towns, and the region boasts a wide array of landscapes. The good thing about these islands is that they’re easily accessible and you can have an incredible time exploring.

adriatic-islands-fetured-img

There are over a thousand islands dotting the Adriatic Sea, and the most popular islands to visit include Mljet, Vis, Hvar, Brac, and Pag. The following is what you can expect when you visit these locations.

Warm and sunny weather

The weather in this region is warm and sunny and these islands enjoy a pleasantly mild Mediterranean climate with a high number of dry, sunny days. Since this is a coastal region, you can expect warm and dry summers while the winters are wet and rarely chilly.

sunny-day-hvar

The coast region receives a lot of sunshine, especially the remote islands of Hvar and Korcula, which also happen to be the most arid. The best time to visit the region is between June and September when temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius.

Gorgeous and versatile nature

In general, these islands along the coast of Croatia are characterized by a special clarity and vivid colors, which contribute to the unique landscapes, along with a picturesque shoreline.

adriatic-islands-nature

Here you can enjoy fishing, and the water is also rich in various kinds of crustaceans. There’s natural beauty and stunning scenery all around and here you can find over 500 species of green, brown and red algae. Here you can enjoy watching bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and monk seals, and for passionate divers, there’s incredible world of colorful sea creatures and forms they can explore beneath the crystal-clear water.

Kind and friendly people

When you visit these islands, you will meet warm and friendly people and you will feel very welcome everywhere you go. You can relax and explore these islands while chilling out with awesome people in some of the most stunning surroundings ever. You can also discover the rich local culture and heritage, and a trip to one of the many unspoiled villages in the area can be an unforgettable experience.

villa-brac-island

Accommodation for every budget

When it comes to accommodation, you can book your dream holiday and stay at a luxury Croatian villa that will cater to your budget. You can choose a villa based on the number of bedrooms or the average rental price. Cheap accommodation is available as well; you can even find a single room if you like but luxurious suites and villas offer world-class amenities, including air conditioning, internet, Wi-Fi, sprawling gardens, parking, private pools and grilling space.

Great food and entertainment

Tourists can enjoy delicious cuisine and the freshest seafood in picturesque towns.

seafood-delicious-shrimps

For entertainment purposes, there are many joints where visitors can enjoy an awesome night out. Cheap beer is available and you can find cafés and nightclubs full of young people partying the night away. You can also enjoy festivals and beach parties, and you will soon discover why these islands have risen to become the hottest party destinations in Europe.

Cuba for the Foodies

When speaking about ideal places for one’s vacation, most people will always envision a beautiful, heaven like a location in the Caribbean. Although for generations, Cuba served as a synonym for Caribbean paradise, political occurrences prevented it from ever developing into the most wanted Caribbean tourist destination. With the recent warming of the relationship between the U.S. and the Cuban government, this dreamlike island and all its wonders are once again open for foreign visitors.

Truth be told, Cuba is a place of incredible natural riches and dazzling landscapes. However, visiting a place and getting to really learn about it is not just about sightseeing. In order to get to really know a place, you must experience its culture, meet its people but above all else have a taste of local culture through its cuisine. When it comes to this, Cuba is second to none.

Best of Cuban cuisine

cuban sandwich

Treat yourself and take a culinary vacation to this incredible Caribbean island. Although its recent isolation damaged the Cuban economy somewhat, it influenced its cuisine for better. Because embargo prevented this country from importing many culinary supplies, it pushed local cooks and chefs into developing an even more autochthonous cuisine by relying solely on spices, vegetables and types of meat that were available to them locally. All of it had a part in making this otherwise unique cuisine even more authentic.

The way to start your day

Tasting a culture is not just about eating local but drinking local as well. Start your day with a Cubita, a local substitute for espresso or café con leche, based on your personal preference, in one of the local cafés. Add to this coffee a Cuban tostada, Cuban toast with butter, and there you have yourself a perfect and authentic local breakfast and experience.

Lunch in Cuba

Proceed with your culinary day in this Caribbean jewel by enjoying your lunch in one of the magnificent yet simple Cuban restaurants. Try the traditional empanada, as well as chicken or meat turnovers. Further complement your delicious dish with a side of mariquitas, thinly sliced plantain chips and you are bound to get a meal that you are unlikely to forget.

Another Cuban specialty, usually enjoyed for lunch, is the pan con bistec, a thin slice of palomilla steak on bread, which is then garnished with lettuce, tomatoes, and fried potato sticks on the side. One thing is for sure, regardless of what you decide on, you will certainly not regret it and it is quite possible you will urge to revel in Cuba’s culinary magnificence again as soon as possible.

Authentic Cuban snack and dinner

cuban dinner

Pastelitos, croquetas, and bocaditos are all delicious Cuban finger food, a specialty of Cuban chefs usually enjoyed as a delicious snack, to help you make it between a delicious Cuban lunch and a delicious Cuban dinner. Dinner usually consists of meat, most commonly chicken or fish accompanied with either white rice or black beans. For dessert, Cuban caramel-flavored custard is usually served; if not this, it is expected that its replacement will be one of the most curious local treats, rice pudding.

Each of these meals has its completely unique taste and every single one carries in itself its own little part of Cuba. Unfortunately, no holiday is long enough for one to taste them all. Still you are always welcome to return to Cuba over and over again, and with the wonderful weather, the authentic cultural vibe and the vintage cars – why wouldn’t you?

Island of Krk – Discover the Hidden Paradise

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.

Croatian National Parks

Blessed with overwhelming beauty, Croatia is becoming number one destination for world wide travelers. Though there are many reasons on why you should visit – miles of stunning coastline, wealth of culture and great food, exploring it’s beautiful National parks is one thing that you must include in your itinerary if you choose to visit this country. Here is an overview of the most popular Croatian National parks.

Brijuni national park


Brijuni is located on the western Istrian coast and consists of 14 islands and islets, covering an area of 7.42km2. One amazing feature of the Brijuni archipelago is the biological diversity, made by the diversity of the habitat, island location, geographical location, geological base and geomorphology. You can have a sightseeing tour which includes a train ride, a visit to the Roman villa rustica, dating from the 1st Century B.C. You can also take a safari in the park to see many wild animals and such as the elephants, zebras and Somali sheeps.

Mljet island



Mljet is a beautiful island located off the coast of Dubrovnik and is often referred to as “The greenest island” in Croatia. It’s a large island consisting of bays, villages and 2 lovely sandy beaches – Blace and Saplunara. The national park is on the northwestern part of the island. Other interesting features of the islands include 2 salt water lakes and the St. Mary islet, which has a monastery on it. If you are getting there by car, you can catch a ferry from Prapratno, Peljesac. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Dubrovnik’s ferry terminal.

Kornati National Park

The islands that were made a national park in 1980, endowed with an extremely beautiful landscape consisting of a highly jagged and indented coastline. The Kornati archipelago is a great attraction for mountaineers, yachtmen, mountaineers, divers and other nature and activity lovers. You can get to the islands by organized tours or charter a sailing boat and discover the islands by yourself.

Krka National Park



Krka National Park is endowed with natural sceneries that are unmatched anywhere else in the world. A major attraction here is the series of waterfalls. The most spectacular one is Skradinkski Buk. Krka river cuts through a dense woodland and a gorge shaded by limestone cliffs, creating a series of spectacular pools and waterfalls. You can come to the park from Sibenik by bus, to the town of Skradin. From here, you can take a 25-minute boat ride up the Krka river.

Plitvice lakes



Plitvice National Park is considered to be one of the most beautiful natural sights in Europe.
There are hotels, restaurants and campsites inside the park, so you can have a comfortable and relaxed visit. People are attracted by the numerous waterfalls, a bevy wildlife, including fish, frogs and a variety of bird species. Special attractions at Plitvice, include the Veliki Splat, a 100 foot waterfall. Included in the price of admission to the park you can travel up the lake on electric boats and then hike around the waterfalls. This national park is probably the most popular national park in Croatia, counting several thousands of visitors every year.

A decision to visit one or more of these national parks will offer you an unforgettable experience that will remain edged on the back of your mind for the rest of your life. Therefore, you should consider booking your travel today!