By Jennifer Wayland
Owner of Island Travel Group and Events
“It’s like living in a fairy tale”. That’s how I describe sailing on a yacht in the islands of Croatia.You feel like a celebrity on the ship and a prince/princess on land.
Located between Italy and Greece, there are over one thousand islands in Croatia, however, only 48 of them are inhabited. Hvar (known for nightlife) and Korcula (home of Marco Polo) receive the most visitors of all the islands. Island hopping is a big thing in Croatia, and it’s clear to see why when there are so many!
If you know me, you know by now that I just LOVE Croatia! Croatia has the warmest people, beautiful nature, waterfalls that will take your breath away, and the most incredibly fresh, delicious food. It’s exciting, relaxing, and affordable. A Croatia yacht sailing is perfect for a romantic couple or small group, active adventure seekers, or for those who want nothing more then to relax and unwind.
Sailing on a yacht in Croatia provides perfect sailing conditions. It’s more like a river cruise than anything else. You’re surrounded by islands so you can always see land and there is no seasickness – take it from me; I get seasick.
Croatia is one of the most verdant and green countries in the world, home to 11 Nature Parks, 8 national parks, and 2 nature reserves. It’s pretty stunning for those who love the great outdoors. One of its most famous national parks is Plitvice Lakes National Park which you wouldn’t want to miss for the world, so for those of you traveling with me in Croatia this summer, you will get to experience it.
We will stop every day for a swim stop. The Adriatic Sea is some of the most crystal clear waters you will ever experience. As we sail each day, you can relax on the deck or in the air conditioning, taking in the beautiful scenery.
Each afternoon we will dock in the most inviting, Instagram-worthy medieval towns and enjoy a one-hour walking tour to introduce you to the city. We overnight in port so the rest of the evening is yours to explore the area.
Go hiking, sightseeing, or wander through the uncrowded winding narrow streets with quaint shops, dining, and nightlife, or go back to the yacht and enjoy a cocktail with old and new friends as you watch passersby from the boat, hustle and bustle by in town looking at you like you’re a celebrity.
Croatia is the best place in Europe to go truffle hunting! Istria, Croatia’s wine country, is overflowing with truffles, which explains why so many of their traditional foods include truffles! Wine is made in Croatia thanks to the Greeks’ influence from two and a half thousand years ago. In Croatia, there are nearly 300 wine regions with a strict classification system for quality check, making it a great destination for foodies and winos. Traditional food here is cheese, potatoes, lamb, fish, olive oil, and beer or wine.
Gladiators used to fight here! The Pula Arena on the Instria peninsula in Croatia is the only remaining Roman amphitheater in the world to maintain its four side towers. It’s almost exactly like the Colosseum in Rome. Except this one is way less famous and even more impressive and beautiful! It’s in better condition despite being over 2.000 years old. It is one of the remaining three pieces of Roman architecture to keep its architectural integrity.
The hit HBO series ‘Game of Thrones’ was filmed here. A major incentive to get yourself there if you’re a huge Game of Thrones fan, you can visit some of the film sites and even go on a GOT tour! While the popular film Mamma Mia 2 takes place in the Greek Isles, it was actually filmed on the Croatian Island, Vis.
Did you know that Croatia invented the necktie? Yep, fashioned after seeing it used by the military. (Originating from a style worn by members of the 17th-century military unit known as the Croats.)
According to Alfred Hitchcock, the city of Zadar has “the most beautiful sunset in the world”. Can you even imagine holding a title like that? So, if you’re looking for the world’s best sunset, head to Croatia! Aside from having the most beautiful sunset in the world, the Croatian city of Zadar is home to a Sea Organ. Designed by Nikola Basic, this experimental sound object captures the movement of the waves and transforms it into music.
My guess is you’ve heard of Tesla, one of the world’s most valuable companies that designs and manufactures electric vehicles. You are correct in assuming that Tesla was named after Nikola Tesla, a famous inventor and electrical engineer. Did you know that Nikola Telsa was born in Lika, a mountain region in Croatia? Or ironically that Tesla was born in the middle of the night during a horrific lightning storm? You can tour Tesla’s boyhood home and witness some of his first inventions. It’s a place where you can see where the great genius made his first steps toward the ultimate achievements that changed the whole world.
Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” will blow you away with its medieval charm. Dubrovnik is a seaside fortress, compact and easy to walk. You enter by a drawbridge and the narrow streets are filled with restaurants and small shops, perfect places for pit stops on a leisurely stroll through the city.
Croatia holds the lowest level of travel warning issued by the United States. Croatia is an excellent and safe country for solo travel.
Jennifer’s Tips:
● Casual, comfortable clothing● Weather will be hot during the day and comfortable at night● Bring sunglasses, hats and sunscreen● Bring your swimsuit and coverup● Have a sufficient amount of currency; Cash is easily accessible upon arrival into Croatia. ATMs are easily accessible in all cities; avoid Euronet and other touristy ATMs with high fees. Try to use bank ATMs when possible. For the best exchange rate, you can’t beat using a debit card (vs. cc) That’s the same for anywhere in Europe.
Attend this Zoom for more information!
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