Thursday, October 12, 2017

Off to Croatia and Slovenia


  • Well I haven't yet written up my trip to Montreal this spring but now I am off soon to Croatia and am going to try to do my blog as I go.  Today I am just setting the stage by letting you know where I am going and a bit about where I am going!!!  We will be flying straight to Amsterdam from here and then to Venice and then by ground transport to Opatija.  Stay tuned!!!

    Your Itinerary for Oct 14, 2017 - Oct 25, 2017

    Please note: tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date. Please select a date above for more details.
    Overnight Flight
    Join us and explore Croatia and the countries of the Adriatic. This is a “must see” region filled with ancient cities, medieval architecture, unique cultures, rolling hills and stunning coastal scenery.

      Opatija, Croatia - Tour Begins
      Your tour begins in the seaside resort of Opatija. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers during a special welcome dinner.

      • Dinner
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      • High  67°  Low  53°
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      • 3"
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      • Hotel Bristol Opatija
      Opatija
      Opatija, known as “Croatia’s Riviera,” was once the summer retreat for Roman Caesars and Hapsburg Monarchs. Spend the day exploring the town on your own.

      • Breakfast
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      • High  67°  Low  53°
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      • 3"
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      • Hotel Bristol Opatija
      Opatija - Plitvice Lakes
      After breakfast, travel to Croatia’s most beautiful national park, Plitvice Lakes. This UNESCO World Heritage site promises inspiring scenery as you travel among its 16 terraced lakes and dense forests. A series of waterfalls and free flowing cascades connects each lake to the other. Complete the experience with a short cruise that takes you into the heart of this natural wonder.

      • Breakfast & Dinner
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      • High  68°  Low  57°
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      • 3"
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      • Jezero Hotel
      Plitvice Lakes - Dubrovnik
      This morning, continue south through the heart of Croatia, towards the medieval city of Dubrovnik. Along the way, enjoy magnificent views of the sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic Sea.

      • Breakfast & Dinner
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      • High  68°  Low  57°
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      • 5"
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      • Valamar Lacroma Resort
      Dubrovnik
      Join an expert local guide on a tour of “Old Dubrovnik,” a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Franciscan Monastery, where Europe’s oldest pharmacy lies, and see Rector’s Palace, the City Walls, and many more historical sites. During your stay in Dubrovnik you have the special opportunity to personalize your tour and partake in one of two inclusions: Elaphiti Islands* cruise (today) or Montenegro excursion (tomorrow). This afternoon features either your first choice or leisure time to relax or independently explore Dubrovnik on your own. Those who have chosen today’s option will set out on a cruise around the Elaphiti Islands, stopping along the way at a local fishing village to get a taste of island life. The name of these islands comes from the ancient Greek word for deer, which used to inhabit the islands in large numbers. Today, they remain an oasis of traditional Croatian coastal living just off the bustling coast. This evening, travel to the culturally-rich Konavle region to Cilipi for a family-style dinner in a locally-owned restaurant. While visiting with the local family you’ll learn about life in the Croatian heartland and sample regional wines. At dinner, servers introduce you to a culinary feast, prepared in the way of their ancestors.

      • Breakfast & Dinner
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      • High  68°  Low  57°
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      • 5"
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      • Valamar Lacroma Resort
      Dubrovnik
      For those who selected the Elaphiti Islands cruise yesterday, today is a day at leisure to relax or independently explore Dubrovnik. Those who have chosen the Montenegro excursion will leave in the morning to cross the border to Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor (or “the Boka”). Once known as Europe’s southernmost fjord, it is in fact a ria (a long, narrow inlet). Your guide will introduce you to the deep history of the region and will share stories of the many cultures and empires that have left their marks here. Enjoy some free time before returning to Dubrovnik for an evening at leisure.

      • Breakfast
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      • High  68°  Low  57°
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      • 5"
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      • Valamar Lacroma Resort
      Dubrovnik - Split
      Today, savor stunning sea views as you travel up the winding coastal road, hugging the sheer cliffs that drop into the aquamarine Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a stop in a quaint village in the Croatian countryside. You will have time to taste the local specialties and perhaps walk through the village square. Upon arrival in Split, set out on a walking tour featuring the impressive Diocletian's Palace, one of the most significant late-Roman historical monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage site. In addition, see the peristyle of the palace and the Temple of Jupiter. Then, continue to your hotel located in the center of Split.

      • Breakfast
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      • High  68°  Low  57°
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      • 5"
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      • Atrium Hotel
      Split - Ljubljana, Slovenia
      Your adventure continues as you travel up the coast, into Slovenia, and on to today’s destination – the quaint capital of Ljubljana. During the drive, take in the spectacular scenery. Arriving in Ljubljana, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to relax. This evening, soak up the stunning views of the city as you ride a funicular to Ljubljana Castle where you will savor a dinner of local specialties within the castle walls.

      • Breakfast & Dinner
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      • High  58°  Low  41°
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      • Hotel Lev
      Ljubljana - Lake Bled - Ljubljana
      This morning you will be met by a local expert who will introduce you to this lovely town nestled along the banks of the river. Your tour includes the impressive City Hall and a visit to the magnificent Cathedral of St. Nicholas. After free time for lunch, drive a short distance to tranquil Lake Bled. Experience the old-world charm that comes with taking a “pletna” boat to the picturesque island in the center of Lake Bled. Spend time exploring the 17th-century cathedral, St. Mary’s Church, and the “wishing bell.” Enjoy some time to stroll the quiet paths of this lakeside community at your own pace.

      • Breakfast
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      • High  58°  Low  41°
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      • Hotel Lev
      Ljubljana - Zagreb, Croatia
      Today you travel to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, and embark on a fascinating tour. Continue your exploration your way with free time this afternoon. Tonight, celebrate the end of an unforgettable trip with dinner in one of Zagreb’s most famous restaurants.

      • Breakfast & Dinner
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      • High  59°  Low  47°
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      • 2"
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      • Sheraton Zagreb Hotel
      Zagreb - Tour Ends
      Your tour comes to a close in Zagreb this morning.

      • Breakfast