On the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Central and Southeast Europe, Croatia is one of the most beautiful places I have visited on the planet. The country has a coast speckled with dozens of magnificent islands that range from tiny and verdant to massive and arid. Some of these are even ancient villages. One of the biggest delights of visiting the country is hopping from one island to the other. And while doing so, you gaze at the Adriatic Sea that surrounds the place in hues of electric blue and jade green. Also, a steely, silk texture that is unmatched to any other sea I have seen before.
Depending on your preferences and pocket, you can choose to travel on a ferry, catamaran or a taxi boat. The most scenic ferry ride though, is supposed to be between Split and Dubrovnik. Sunbathe while you soak in the rugged shoreline views, and as islands such as Hvar and and Korcula pass by at a leisurely pace. The boat trip takes about twice as long as the bus, but I would suggest a boat trip, as it’s worth every minute of the ride.
In the lap of luxury: If indulgence and luxury is what you seek on a vacation, then Croatia is the place for you. Hvar in particular, is home to some of the plushest yachts. It is also the sunniest island, surrounded by the Adriatic Sea. So when here, expect to see white sands and clear waters all around you. The place also boasts of a very energetic atmosphere and a vibrant party scene in the evening, making it almost impossible for one to sleep at night. Definitely a place to visit for the partying night owls.
Speaking of luxury, how can one exclude food? The city of Dubrovnik is packed with five star hotels and high-end restaurants that serve exotic seafood of course. As a seafood fan (or seafoodie) I enjoyed the best clams, mussels and oysters (although one does need to develop a taste for the last one).
Much to explore: The Kryka Lakes National Park is a World Heritage site and the country’s most popular national park in Croatia. The main draw of the place is its 16 waterfalls that flow with a fierce gush. Of course, I had to take a dip!
If you’re one to explore historic riches of a place, head to Diocletian’s Palace — one of the world’s most impressive Roman ruins that stand tall and proud even today. Located in the city of Split (it’s called its heart, soul and most of its arteries) Diocletian’s Palace also has a lot of shopping places, bars, restaurants, boutiques and of course, exotic food.
Capital Call: A very tiny Capital on the edge of Europe, Zagreb is coming into its own with an appealing medley of a contemporary soul and ancient aesthetics. As a fashion designer, I fell especially in love with this place as they have edgy art, delicious cuisine and a very creative, boho-style fashion. The streets are buzzing with music, thanks to street performers and bands. The vibe is so infectious and it makes you want to shake a leg too. There’s a healthy dose of Balkan influence here that reflects in its streets style entertainment and buzzing nightlife.
If you happen to be in Zagreb on a Saturday, I strongly recommend that you experience špica — the Saturday morning and pre-lunch coffee drinking ritual that happens on a terrace in Zagreb. An indulgent Saturday morning ritual.
For the adrenaline junkie: Skydiving is one of the most heart-pumping activities you could ever attempt. Do this above one of the world’s most picturesque coastlines and you’ve got yourself a truly memorable trip to take back home. Take the plunge.
The author is a fashion designer bitten by the travel bug
