Incredible Croatia

I thought long and hard over the safety aspects of visiting Croatia when I was offered the chance, but eventually I said yes and off I flew to Croatia.

The flight was only two hours. I arrived in the late evening so it was difficult to get any feeling for what I was about to experience over the next few days. My first night was spent on the Makarska Riviera. The following morning, I stepped out onto the balcony expecting to see the usual view of more hotels and built up areas, only to be presented with a breathtaking sea view. This turned out to be only a small part of the beauty that Croatia offers. My views on the country started to change that morning!

I also visited the island of Hvar, Dubrovnik, Mlini and Cavtat, and all of them offered the same beauty as Makarska.

I was delighted by the friendliness off the Croatians we met, all English speaking and nothing too much trouble. All the places I visited were exceptionally clean, I can't remember seeing litter on the ground. It is hard to believe that ten years ago they were at war. Dubrovnik and its surrounding areas have been renovated so the only evidence you will see is when you drive further up into the hills, and even then it's hardly noticeable. Many of the hotels have been renovated so offer an excellent standard of accommodation, but those that have not, because they were not damaged, offer only the basics--so allow yourself to be choosy!

Croatia offers four types of holiday: a city break for three or four days to Dubrovnik or Zagreb; a total relaxation beach holiday to one its islands; a stay on the mainland that will offer plenty of sightseeing for those who do not wish to lie on the beach or by the pool all day; or a two-centre holiday.

Is it for you? Well, I think Croatia is an ideal destination for most people. Families are also well catered for, with many of the hotels offering activities for children and some having their own 'kiddies clubs'. The nightlife in Croatia is relaxed. Very few nightclubs or discos, just an abundance of café-bars and restaurants. An idyllic way to end the day in Croatia is with a drink, watching the sun go down before a leisurely stroll along the beachfront back to your hotel.

I will definitely return to Croatia and without a second thought! If you want to get away from the 'busy' Mediterranean resorts and are looking for somewhere that offers more than just sun, then go to Croatia. You won't regret it!

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Stunning Skiathos

Skiathos is definitely an island with lots to do, however there is always the option of relaxing with a good book on one of the many golden, sandy beaches that fringe the island.

During my seven-night stay I hired a speedboat for a day and explored some of the many uninhabited islands in the area--great if you like finding your very own private beach for the day! I also hired a 4x4 Jeep for the day and explored inland Skiathos where I discovered several beautiful Fransiscan monasteries with stunning, elevated views of the coast. Car hire is not essential on the island as the bus service is both regular and reliable. Taxis are also widely available and reasonable priced. Eating out in Skiathos is the name of the game so self catering accommodation is recommended and readily available. There are quite literally hundreds of tavernas on the island where you will find all the local dishes and the fresh catch of the day! Prices are very reasonable in such establishments and they are usually open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (which can start as late as 11pm!). For a slightly more upmarket eating experience there is a wide choice of restaurants in Skiathos Town offering superb a la carte dining.

Whatever your taste, Skiathos is definitely a destination to be savoured!

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Welcome to Croatia
Dubro dosli u Hrvatoku!

With a flight available from Gatwick with Croatia Airlines, you can fly direct into Split in just over two-and-a-half hours, or Dubrovnik in three hours. Croatia is only one hour ahead of GMT, making it a comfortable journey and no jet lag! Hydrofoils operate regularly along the coast and visit all the major islands in the Adriatic Sea.

With temperatures as high as 85°F in the peak season months of June, July and August, the weather is perfect if you are looking for a beach holiday, but at the same time, being near the coast, you will find a refreshing breeze.

As I toured through Croatia, I visited a lot of hotels along the way. I found they were of a very good standard with private facilities and often a balcony or terrace. All the buildings throughout Croatia are made of stone with marble floors, keeping it cool during the summer months—although as an added luxury some of the hotels have air conditioning, and these rooms get snapped up first.

The Croatian people are a beautiful population, always with a smile. They love the English and are very welcoming to tourists, helping you to fit in and have one of the best holidays possible.

Hiring a car is an excellent way to see Croatia, with views out to the Adriatic Sea and the Dalmatian Islands with mountains forming backdrops. The turquoise waters are crystal clear, perfect for snorkelling. There are a lot of activities concentrated on their beautiful waters. These range from hiring a pedalo, diving and sailing.

Croatia has some of the best beaches in the world. Jelly shoes are a good idea when going into the water as the beaches tend to be shingle, with the most famous exception to this being the Golden Horn beach of Bol.

Croatia has a very Greek feel to it with its whitewashed houses and red roofs, the big difference being that it is not overpopulated with tourists.

Eating out is a fun part of the holiday. The restaurants are good value, and you’ll be pleased to know that it is cheaper than in the UK. A three-course meal can cost as little as £10 per head. Ice cream is very popular with the children (and the adults!), and you can find every flavour—look out for the white chocolate flavour, I sampled it regularly!

Many of the bars have live bands performing on their terraces throughout the summer. For those who prefer a livelier nightlife, entrance to most nightclubs is free, and tend to get busier later on in the evening. A lot of the music played is the same as in the UK.

My journey ended in Dubrovnik, which is a spectacular city. An ancient stone wall surrounds this historic city, with its churches, monasteries and palaces, for everyone to marvel over. The cobbled streets lead you through a selection of shops and bars perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine!

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Monte Carlo

The city of Monte Carlo itself is bright, vibrant and safe, with a warm and friendly atmosphere. You are not made to feel uncomfortable despite the enormous wealth in the area, which is immediately visible as you approach the city from the high road. The wonderful marina is brimming with expensive yachts and the roads are packed with Ferraris!

Other treats on offer here include shopping in the Designer Boutiques of the new town or strolling through the sweet alleys of the old town. The local cuisine is marvellous and has a strong French and Italian influence including locally caught sea food. Accommodation is first class throughout the city and all are centrally located.

Monte Carlo is an ideal destination for a short break to experience the high life and to get away from it all. Go on--treat yourself!!

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• Incredible Croatia
• Stunning Skiathos
• Welcome to Croatia
• Monte Carlo

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