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6 Reasons This Should Be the Year You Finally Visit Croatia

2/22/2019

2 Comments

 
Picture
Coastal towns like Zadar offer a great array of recreational and cuisine options.
By John Roberts

I've been to Croatia a number of times and have really fallen for this gem of the Adriatic. Cruise ships bring hordes to Dubrovnik and other popular spots like Zadar. But the country offers so much more to explore.

Here are five reasons you need to make plans to travel to Croatia.

History Comes to Life in Zagreb
Croatia is unlike any other European destination. It offers a mix of Old World European charm, easy Mediterranean lifestyle, a stunning 3,625 miles of coastline dotted by more than 1,000 islands, islets and reefs and fascinating history, rich culture, delectable cuisine and natural beauty. Croatia features 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites and eight magnificent national parks. These are considered to be some of Europe's most well-preserved sites.

The capital city of Zagreb offers the chance to explore the nation'
s rich history and culture, as well as architecture that is reflective of significant periods. The bright yellow Croatian National Theatre building, built in the 1800s, is the cultural heartbeat of the city and reflects the Viennese style.

Check out the iconic neo-Gothic cathedral and St. Mark's Church from the early 13th century or the red umbrellas of 
the Dolac open-air market and lush greenery of its public parks and gardens. Zagreb is also a city of contrast -- old and new architecture, upper and lower towns, modern and traditional events and festivals and an emerging food scene grounded in centuries of deep traditions but with modern approaches.

A Spa Retreat in Slavonia

The Slavonia region, with rolling wine trails and the stunning Kopaki Rit Nature Park, is also home to Bizovacke Toplice, a well-known thermal bath and rehabilitation destination and spa. The healing waters are pumped from a depth of almost 2,000 meters from the remnants of the Pannonian Sea, which contains an abundance of healing minerals.

Treatments in the thermal waters have been known to help 
give joint relief to sports injuries and aid in rehabilitation; this has been a destination for athletes seeking a place to prepare and condition for seasons and events.

Inviting Istria

Set along the western part of the country is Istria. It's the largest peninsula and a destination that is both a feast for the eyes and palate. Explore medieval hilltop towns perched high above valleys of ancient forest, award-winning olive oil groves and beautiful vineyards.

Don't miss out on storybook 
Motovun, the charming artist community of Groznjan, or Livade, a destination for those seeking Croatia's illustrious white and black truffles. Coastal towns like Rovinj offer some of the country's top cuisines, best enjoyed while sipping regional wines and soaking in some of the most magnificent sunsets in the world.

For those 
interested in history, explore the amphitheater in Pula and other fishing villages along the coast -- like Umag, Porec and Novigra -- that were once Roman settlements. These destinations reveal a calmer Mediterranean lifestyle.

Make it a Wellness Vacation

Croatia's epicenter for wellness is the Kvarner region and the city of Opatija, which is acknowledged as the wellness oasis of the country. Opatija owns a history as a wellness center dating to 1873, when the Imperial Train was built and vacationers from Vienna and Hungary came to the region to recover from seasonal ailments. The region's history as a wellness and hospitality destination can be seen in the beautiful Austro-Hungarian architecture of luxurious hotels, wellness spas and splendid villas that dot the coastline and hillsides.

Visitors to this region are drawn by the benefits of the captivating phenomenon known as the "
Kvarner Effect," which embodies all elements that are so special to Croatia. The densely wooded mountain forest of Gorski Kotar is known as the "Lungs of Croatia," and fresh crisp air, coupled with the healing effects of the northern dry bura wind have helped those with respiratory ailments. The air quality also helps those who prefer a more active lifestyle to experience the ultimate benefits of the region while enjoying various active outdoor activities from cycling, hiking, swimming, sailing, skiing and of course, yoga. Plus, the charming port city of Rijeka has been named a European City of Culture for 2020.
Picture
We love sunny Croatia, especially in summer. We found this quiet spot on the island of Ugljan, just across from Zadar.
The Country's Coastal Charms
The Dalmatian coast has some of Europe's most sought-after destinations and dramatic coastlines, lined with vineyards, olive oil plantations, natural beauty and the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Evidence of Roman and Venetian influence can be seen along the coastal towns full of rich history, medieval architecture, islands, award-winning beaches, world-class diving and snorkeling, awe-inspiring sunsets and delectable cuisines and wines. Explore Zadar's two renowned art installations the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation
. You can also discover Sibenik's UNESCO World Heritage sites at the Cathedral of St. James and St. Michael’s Fortress or stroll through UNESCO-protected Trogir.

Roman Emperor Diocletian retired in Split, and you can visit his Palace along the famous Riva or take ferries to explore islands of Hvar (the country's sunniest)
 and Vis among others. The most-touristed site is Dubrovnik and its white marble streets, historic 16th-century battlements and scenic surroundings.

One Festive Nation

Year-round, Croatia is constantly brimming with cultural events from museums and gallery exhibitions to festivals and cultural events. Istria's Pula Film Festival, held in July, is the oldest film festival in Croatia and one of the oldest in Europe.

The country also
 is a cool destination for music festivals, especially during the summer. Try the Hideout Music Festival on Zrce Beach on Pag Island. In May, Split celebrates Sudamja, the centuries old celebration of Day of St. Domnius, held every year on May 7.

The biggest and most well-known summer festival, ULTRA, is held during July in Split, Hvar, Vis and Brac. Also, travelers can experience Dubrovnik's Summer Festival, which features music, theater, dance and other cultural events among the backdrop of the Old City's iconic marbled streets. During the holidays, Zagreb is the destination to get into the spirit of the season, as winner of Best European Christmas Destination for three consecutive years
.

Thanks for reading,

JR
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UnCruise Adventures Offers Summer Voyages in Hawaiian Islands

2/13/2019

1 Comment

 
UnCruise Adventures' Safari Explorer in Hawaii
The 36-passenger Safari Explorer will sail weeklong voyages that visit four Hawaiian Islands.
By John Roberts

UnCruise Adventures, our favorite expedition line, has been sailing in Hawaii for years. The company discovered during this time that travelers love the exotic itineraries and the opportunities to explore the idyllic setting and interact with nature so much that it was time to expand the season.

UnCruise has announced its first foray into summer island cruising with the addition of six departures in July and August 2019. The weeklong small-ship cruises sail roundtrip Moloka'i and explore Lana'i, the Big Island of Hawai'i, and sea turtle-rich waters off West Maui.

For this adventure, you sail on the intimate 36-passengers Safari Explorer. This ship has been featured on the company's Hawaii cruises from November through April since 2011. The new weeklong summer itinerary visits four islands, where you take part in thrilling activities to explore land and sea -- kayaking, hiking, swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, searching for wildlife and touring by skiff. Cultural heritage also is a key component of the UnCruise experience in the islands.

"We've had our eye on operating in Hawaii during the summer, and with current demand, the time is right," UnCruise Adventures' owner and CEO Dan Blanchard said. "Hawaii is a popular vacation destination all year, and now summer travelers can take advantage of the convenience of traveling between islands by yacht."

The new Aloha Hawaii Adventure Cruise sails roundtrip Moloka'i, a lightly visited island that provides an authentic Hawaiian vibe.  A Halawa Valley family with ancient Hawaiian lineage invites visitors into their home to "talk story" about island lore and learn how to make poi from taro root. A guided hike meanders past taro patches and ends at a waterfall where you can take a plunge into the exhilarating waters. An evening pa'ina feast in town is a true Hawaiian celebration with traditional cuisine, music and dancing.

On the island of Lana'i, you can hike to Sweetheart Rock to take in the sweeping views and visit the Lana'i Culture and Heritage Center. Snorkeling is an option off West Maui, to visit a turtle cleaning station -- where turtles visit to have their shells cleaned (parasites removed by small fish) -- and find yourself swimming with green sea turtles and other colorful fish. It's a remarkable chance to witness the unique natural symbiosis among sea creatures.

An evening snorkel in Honomalino Bay draws Giant Pacific Manta ray's up close in a feeding area.  Kayak through lava tubes off the Big Island of Hawai'I, and stroll through historic Kailua. Marine life abounds with sightings of colorful reef fish, turtles, whales, dolphins, reef sharks and manta rays.

Meals on board Safari Explorer are fresh and innovative, with produce and meat sourced on Moloka'i. Sustainable seafood is sourced from fishermen at the Honolulu fish market.

These cruises start at $5,195 per person based on double occupancy. Fares include all meals, beverages (yes, including alcohol), adventure activities and transfers. Port taxes and fees are additional. Bookings confirmed prior to March 29 receive a $600 per couple Aloha savings. For more information, call UnCruise Adventures at 888-862-8881 or email sales@uncruise.com. UnCruise Adventures says it will announce its summer 2020 Hawaii schedule soon.

Thanks for reading,
JR
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Best Tips and Tricks for Your Day at Half Moon Cay

2/10/2019

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Horse riding at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas
The popular horseback riding excursion takes you out into the water for a refreshing gallop through the surf.
By John Roberts

Holland America Line purchased Little San Salvador Island in the Bahamas in 1996 for about $6 million and used the slice of paradise to create an awesome cruise destination.

Half Moon Cay is a day-long private island experience you can find listed on Caribbean itineraries of many Holland America ships. You might occasionally catch a Carnival Cruise Line ship that also has Half Moon Cay listed as part of its voyage, as well.

We really enjoy this private island and look forward to the chance to spend the day there at our own pace whenever we take a cruise that includes Half Moon Cay. As of the writing of this post, we have been three times, all with Holland America -- on Noordam, Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam.

You take a tender to the island as your ship anchors offshore, and the crescent-shaped beach wraps around the most crystal-clear blue waters you will find anywhere in the Bahamas. Your ship is always within sight and makes a great backdrop for your selfies in paradise.
Picture
A quick selfie with Nieuw Statendam.
The barbecue lunch buffet food is just so-so, but the ice cream is good and you can pay for a seafood meal at the Lobster Shack eatery on the beach. Also, you should know that your drinks package is not accepted when you're on Half Moon Cay. (I'll politely regard this gouging as "not cool").

We like all the activities you can do. There is a waterpark, a playground with basketball court, water sports equipment rentals, water skis, paddleboards and a stingray experience.

You can also use the walking/jogging course or book the horse-riding excursion during which you saddle up for a 40-minute ride that finishes with a thrilling run in the surf of the sea as you hang on. It's a great rush. So, you can enjoy a fairly active day. We always walk to the end of the beach to get away from the crowds and do some snorkeling in a secret place where you can see all kinds of fish and an underground shipwreck, too.

Check out our video of where to go for the snorkeling:
You also can choose to relax by renting a cabana or settling into one of the beachfront loungers.

Here is our video tour of everything on at Half Moon Cay:
I hope you get to enjoy this delightful private island soon.

Thanks for reading,
JR
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