Hello, It’s Ellen, again… filling in for Marilyn as she returns from her action-packed Chilean Adventure!

Thanks in part to the phenomenal success of Game of Thrones (filmed in Split, Dubrovnik, and other locations around Croatia) and also in part to fading memories of the Croatian War of Independence (1991-1995) and its communist past, Croatia has become the “IT” destination… and I, for one, am jumping firmly on the bandwagon! I will be heading to Croatia on May 5^th and have an action—packed itinerary in store!

I’ll be flying in and out of Split, which boasts ruins from the time of rule of the Roman Empire (Diocletian’s Palace, Salona in Solin), stunningly picturesque coastlines, quaint town squares replete with wonderful food and drink, and close-by national parks (Plitvice and Krka) that provide some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

Diocletian’s Palace… You may recognize it from Game of Thrones!

Beautiful Split! Would you look at that water? SO clear!

Plitvice National Park, a piece of heaven.

From Split I’ll head to Dubrovnik – another town straight out of the tour guide’s handbook! There I’ll do some oyster tasting at Peninsula Peljesac along the Dalmation coast, explore Old Town Dubrovnik, and take an afternoon cruise to the Elafiti Islands, and spend a bit of time in the Cavtat – the center of the Konavle region – approximately 30 miles south of Dubrovnik.

I’ll be seeing you soon, Dubrovnik!

Elafiti Islands – more beauty!

Cavtat – something out of a dream!

At this point I’ll be boarding a small, family-owned cruise ship in Split – operated by Katarina Line – the same cruise line that WOW! Travel Club will be sailing with this summer! I’ll be cruising on the MS Seagull – me and 31 other passengers!

The MS Seagull – my home away from home for a few nights!

While I don’t know the specific details of my cruise, I do know that we’ll be spending time on the island of Hvar, which is, apparently, the new celebrity destination – with its spectacular coastlines, ancient towns, fabulous dining, and friendly people. Bol is the next destination; it is situated on the Island of Brac and is rich in culture and history with ancient churches, monasteries, and monuments to peruse.

Hvar – the new “IT” spot to see and be seen!

Bol – rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Of course, we’ll be cruising all the while in a small luxury vessel with the ability to weave in and out of the islands, while stopping to take a dip in various coves along the Adriatic Sea! Pinch me, I must be dreaming!

Water so clear it looks like the boats are floating on air!

Two weeks from today I embark on this fabulous journey! On that fateful Friday, you may all bid me a “Stretan put!” –  Bon Voyage in Croatian!