Author: villagetravellaguna

ABOUT ISTANBUL
With a population of just over 15 million people, Istanbul is Europe’s largest city. Located on both sides of the Bosphorus, what makes Istanbul geographically interesting is that it’s one of a handful of cities that straddles two continents. The western half of the city is situated in Europe while the eastern half is located in Asia. The Asian side is largely residential so you’ll find most of the city’s major attractions clustered within two districts on the European side – Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu. First-time visitors to the city will be spending much of their time in those two districts.

BEFORE YOU GO
You do need a visa to enter Turkey, but unlike some other countries it is very easy to obtain. You have two options: apply online for an e-visa beforehand (recommended) or apply at the visa counter upon arrival in Turkey. When in Istanbul or anywhere in Turkey you must use their currency, the Lira (₺). No other currency will be accepted outside the airport. So either preorder money through your bank before your trip or plan to use an airport ATM upon arrival in Istanbul. Bring a printout or have a screenshot of your hotel’s information with full address and phone number, you may need this to help your taxi driver know where you’re going.

WHEN TO GO
March to May or September to November are the best times to visit Istanbul. The crowds are thinner and the weather is relatively mild, though Autumn sees more rain than Spring. December to February is low season for tourism, but it is the wettest and coldest time so you would need to plan accordingly. I would recommend not going in July/August, during that time is it extremely humid and overwhelmingly overcrowded.

HOW TO GET THERE
Istanbul recently opened its new airport, IST, which is the biggest airport in the world. Being as it is brand new the airport is extremely nice and technologically advanced. However, it is much farther from the city than the old airport and will take you about 50 minutes to reach the city center. All international flights to Istanbul will go through the new airport. To get to the city center from the airport you can take a public bus service, but I would recommend just grabbing a taxi once you exit the airport. A taxi will run you about 35€ (235₺) or you could arrange for a private transfer for around 55€ (365₺). The same goes for the return back to the airport. Istanbul does not have Uber/Lyft. Make sure you have Lira (₺) already with you or use an airport ATM to withdraw some before you take your transportation. You cannot use any other currency anywhere in Istanbul.

GETTING AROUND
Depending on where you stay Istanbul is a very walkable city and actually I suggest walking as there is a lot to see/take in as you walk through the city streets. For longer distances taxis are very accessible and relatively inexpensive. Throughout the city you will see designated areas where you can grab a taxi. If you’re leaving from your hotel have them call you a taxi or if you’re out and about you can always pop into a restaurant/hotel and ask them to call you a taxi if you don’t see a taxi stand. There is also ample public transportation, ask your hotel for map of the buses and trams.

WHERE TO STAY
There are two main areas to stay in Istanbul: Sultanahment and Beyoglu. Both are located on the European side, but they are opposite sides of the Golden Horn inlet which connects to the Bosphorus strait. Most the major tourist sites are located in Sultanahment while Beyoglu is more contemporary with trendy bars and restaurants. From one area to the other is just a funicular and tram ride away. Or if you have the time/ability I recommend walking, it is a bit of a trek but there are a lot of things to see on the way.

Ciragan Palace Kempinski: A five-star luxury hotel located on the European shores of the Bosphorus, in a very convenient location between the districts of Besiktas and Ortakoy. One hour from the IST airport, it is the only Ottoman Imperial Palace and Hotel on the Bosphorus. This hotel is not as central as some others, but is by far the most luxurious and offers a resort ambience in the city. With 310 rooms, 3 restaurants, 2 bars, full spa, and for wintertime a heated outdoor infinity pool right on the Bosphorus. It’s about a 15-20 minute drive to the Sultanahmet area and about a 10-15 drive to the Beyoglu area.

Soho House Hotel: A five star hotel located in the Beyoglu district. More of a boutique hotel, tastefully decorated in contemporary style. With only 87 rooms, full spa with traditional Hammam, massive full gym, rooftop pool and bar, and two restaurants. You do not need to be a Soho House club member to stay at this hotel and all hotel guests are granted access to Soho House club, located right next to the hotel. In the club you will find another restaurant, multiple bars, and a rooftop terrace. It is just a two minute walk to Istiklal Caddesi, a 30-45 minute walk or a 15 minute drive to the Sultanahmet district, and a 40 minute drive from the airport.

Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet: A five-star hotel located in the heart of Istanbul’s old city, Sultanahmet. The hotel embraces all aspects of luxury hospitality with a halal approach. With only 61 rooms, full with spa a traditional Hammam and hydrotherapy pool, gym, one restaurant, and a Patisserie. It is a 10-20 minute walk to all major attractions in that district (blue mosque, etc.), a 15 minute drive to Beyoglu, and 50 minutes from the airport.

WHERE TO EAT
Dürümzade: Located just a few minutes off of Istiklal Caddesi and featured on the Istanbul episode of No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain. They specialize in dürüm which is a type of sandwich made by rolling flatbread around döner kebab fillings. Really good and inexpensive too.

Tarihi Sultanahmet Koftecisi Selim Usta: Located right by the Sultanahmet tram stop. It is said to serve some of the best kofte (meatballs) in Istanbul. Order their specialty which is the izgara köfte or grilled beef meatballs.

Ahırkapı Balıkçısı: Located about an 8 minute walk from the blue mosque, it is highly regarded and known for its fresh seafood

Mikla: Located in Beyoglu district on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera hotel. If you’re wanting an upscale dinner then this is the place to go. It was voted one of the Worlds Best 50 Restaurants. Both the menu and the ambiance of the restaurant reflect the Turkish-Scandinavian background of Mehmet Gürs, the Chef-Owner. You have a choice of the seven course tasting menu 525₺ or the three course prix fixe a la carte menu for 385₺.

WHAT TO DO
Visit the main historic sites (Sultanahmet) most of these are next or a short walk from each other. So it is possible to do them all in one day or you can break it up. I visited all these sites/markets on my own. I didn’t spend a ton of time at each place as I was only in Istanbul for three days, so not using a guide worked well for me. If you want a more in-depth experience then I would definitely suggest getting a guide. You can get a guide at each attraction or have one who travels with you to multiple sites. Most of these places have a mandatory entrance fee, so if you plan on going to multiple you may want to buy the Istanbul Museum Pass. Below are things that I think are a must do in Istanbul.

Historic Sites

Hagia Sophia: The most iconic site in Istanbul and once considered the greatest church in Christendom. 60₺

Blue Mosque: One of the most striking mosques in Istanbul. Free

Basilica Cistern: The largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. 20₺

Topkapi Palace: The court of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. 60₺

Bazaars

Grand Bazaar: Built in 1461, it has approximately 4,000 shops, covering 60 streets. It’s one of the largest covered shopping markets in the world. You will find quality textiles, carpets, Turkish ceramics, fashion wear, jewelry, souvenirs and more.

Spice Bazaar: is 350 years old and around 100 shops selling fragrant scents and colorful spices, nuts, teas, dried fruits and more.
*These markets can be extremely crowded and stuffy so prepare yourself as it can be quite overwhelming, especially in the summer months

Explore Beyoğlu District

Galata Bridge: Bridge connecting the north and south of European Istanbul.

Galata Tower: Former watchtower offering great views of the city. 25₺

Istiklal Caddesi: The heart of Beyoğlu and Istanbul’s most famous street, known for its fashion shops.

Dolmabahce Palace: The biggest palace in Turkey. 90₺

Other

Turkish Bath (Hammam): What makes Turkish baths unique is that they do not have pools or baths in them. There is a large steam room where you sit while a lady (or man) scrubs your entire body. It is not mixed gender, but be prepared as mostly everyone is entirely naked. You may wear a swimsuit if you’d like. It might sound weird but it is amazing. I recommend Killic Ali Pasa Hamami located in Tophane, Istanbul’s harbor district.

Cruise on the Bosphorus Straight: it takes you up through the Bosphorus Straight which cuts through Istanbul and gives you some of the best views of Istanbul.

IF YOU HAVE TIME
Istanbul Archaeology Museums: Museum of the Ancient Orient, Tiled Pavilion, Archaeological Museum. 30₺

Great Palace Mosaic Museums: Museum featuring an impressive collection of calligraphy and rugs.

Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Ibrahim Pasa Palace): Museum featuring an impressive collection of calligraphy and rugs. 35₺

Underground Cistern: is a unique spot to visit. It is an underground water storage constructed using columns from ruined Istanbul buildings. It is quite mystical to walk through & nice place to cool down in when in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet Square: The former location of the Hippodrome of Constantinople.

TIPS
-If you want to do a Turkish bath make sure you have your hotel make you a reservation, the best ones often fill up.

-When using a credit or debt card whether at hotel checkout or a restaurant if they ask if you would like to pay in Lira or USD (or your home currency) always pay in Lira. This way your local bank does the conversion, which will give you the best exchange rate. The same goes for when using an ATM, always proceed without conversion. You should do this in any foreign country.

DAY ONE
Welcome to Dubrovnik, the Pearl of Adriatic. Dubrovnik lies in the extreme south of Croatia, basking in glorious Mediterranean sunshine for much of the year. A fairytale fortress of beautiful Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance churches, aristocratic palaces, red-roofed townhouses, magnificent monasteries and fascinating history, it is almost impossible to feel anything but uplifted and inspired here. Private transfer to your hotel. Hotel amenities will help you to relax and rejuvenate.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.

DAY TWO
After breakfast discover ‘Game of Thrones’ film sites of Dubrovnik on this walking tour that takes in the real-life attractions used for some of the television show’s fictional locations. As you explore the city’s World Heritage-listed Old Town with an in-the-know guide, enjoy views of the red-roofed skyline you’ll recognize as King’s landing. Follow in Joffrey’s footsteps at Lovrijenac Fortress, stand where Ayra Stark stood and hear behind-the-scenes stories about filming in the city. The show is shot in locations throughout Europe, but Dubrovnik, with its red rooftops and stunning coastal location on the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most recognizable as King’s Landing, the capital of the realm’s seven kingdoms.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.

DAY THREE
After breakfast day at leisure. Explore Dubrovnik City Walls and enjoy a unique view of the Old Town of Dubrovnik including its narrow streets and small squares.
In the afternoon, discover the impressive Elaphiti Islands archipelago and enjoy the most beautiful parts of the 3 largest inhabited islands. Experience stunning nature with orange, lemon and olive trees and beautiful bays. The Elaphiti Islands are a small archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik. The name comes from Greek and can be translated as the Deer Islands. One possible explanation is that deer-hunting Greek settlers once lived on the island. The islands are mostly covered with pine forests, along with some orange, lemon, olive and laurel trees. In just 1 day, visit the 3 largest inhabited islands.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.

DAY FOUR
After breakfast embark on a shared ferry/catamaran and start your way to Korcula, the perfect way to experience the extraordinary beauty of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Cruise
to Island Korčula, one of the greenest islands in the Adriatic Sea. Rich in vineyards, olive groves and small villages, and harboring a glorious old town, the island of Korčula is the sixth largest Adriatic island. The island itself is rich in art and culture, as well as beautiful nature such as numerous tiny and secluded beaches and bays, small and uninhabited islands and breathtaking views.
Hotel check-in.
After hotel check-in, meet your driver that will take you to a meeting point for your afternoon biking.

Join us on this epic ride, wine and dine tour!
Korcula island provides a stunning backdrop for this unforgettable mountain biking
adventure. Escape the crowds, get back to nature and admire the gorgeous coastal and rural
scenery that makes this island so special.
This tour is suitable for most ages and abilities, whether you’re looking for an exhilarating
ride or a more leisurely cycle with plenty of stops for relaxing and admiring the beautiful
vistas.
On this tour, you get multiple epic experiences for the price of one! Following the biking
adventure, take the chance to visit an acclaimed vineyard .Enjoy a swim in crystal clear waters
at a secluded beach.
This Korcula mountain biking excursion is not merely a rental, it’s a full-blown experience
packed full of memorable activities.
Overnight on Korčula.

DAY FIVE
After breakfast, explore Mljet island with our group boat tour. The island of breathtaking nature and Odysey ́s oasis of peace where time has been paused. In 1960 the western part of the island was declared a national park. It consists of two lakes (Large and Small Lake), surrounded by the dense forest. In the Large Lake on the islet of Melita (St. Mary) there is the Benedictine monastery from the 12th century. The islet is the symbol of the whole national park for its unbelievable aesthetics and strong cultural and spiritual dimension. Walk through the pine forest that surrounds the Small and Large Lake and enjoy the Mediterranean vegetation in its uniqueness and harmony, a boat ride around the Large Lake to the islet of St. Mary and the visit to the Benedictine monastery built in the 12th century and then go swimming in the beautiful, crystal clearlakes to relax your body and soul.
Overnight on Korčula.

DAY SIX
Today you will paddle through the crystal clear waters of Korčula, one of the most
beautiful corners of the Adriatic Sea.
Korčula Outdoor has over 20 years of experience on these waters and will guide you along this kayaking journey through pebble beaches and secluded and protected coves. The tour will start with an introduction to the activity and equipment followed by a safety briefing, then it’s time to grab a paddle and set out for the water! A guide will lead you from Korčula around islets with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and a few historical tales. Marco Polo was once captured on these waters by the Genovese fleet! You will enjoy an incredible backdrop of the Saint Ilija, a mountain standing almost a kilometer above sea level guarding the straight between Pelješac and Korčula Island.
This is a beautiful sea adventure you will never forget!
Overnight on Korčula.

DAY SEVEN
Embark on a shared catamaran and start your adventurous ride to Split, the second largest city in Croatia and the city that has all. Roman ruins and grand museums alongside fashionable cafes and trendy shops. Without hiding their pride, the people of Split will tell you that their city is “the most beautiful one in the world and beyond.”
After hotel check in you will have Game of Thrones tour. First, you’ll take a walking tour of the 1700-year-old Diocletian’s Palace in the heart of Split’s old town. You’ll wander the streets that became Meereen, the palace basements and Daenarys’ throne room. Next, departure to the mountain village of Klis, about 20 minutes outside Split. In this tiny village lies Klis Fortress, which stands tall on the end of a rocky cliff offering the absolute best view of Split, the Adriatic Sea and neighboring islands. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the fortress, during which he’ll tell you about the Game of Thrones scenes that were filmed here as well as some of the local Croatian history.
Overnight in Split.

DAY EIGHT
Today we are taking you to discover most beautiful gem of Croatia: the magical National Park Krka Waterfalls. An hour drive from Split, away from city crowds, lies one of the most beautiful National Parks in Croatia. The mouth of the river Krka forms stunning waterfalls complimented by a breathtaking canyon. Krka is an idyllic retreat for hikers, cyclists, nature lovers, and just about everyone looking to escape Croatia’s well-worn tourist trail. For those who love nature or walking the Krka National Park is a great chance to take a trip. Explore this remarkable National Park with our local guide.
After free time and lunch departure back to Split.
Overnight in Split.

DAY NINE
Have you ever dreamed of flying? Do you remember how free and excited it made you feel? Man has always dreamed of flying. Some say that when they dream of flying they feel they are on top of things in their life and have a special sense of power and control. We can’t influence what you dream about, but we can make you feel as if you were flying. Imagine being 80 meters above the ground and flying 120 km/h for 2 km with magnificent scenery below you. Total length of the cable is 1700 m which makes it the longest one piece zip line in Europe. It’s possible to reach speeds over 120 km/h, but for that you would have to have a strong back wind. Even with a front wind your top speed will be around 100 km/h. In case of strong winds or rain we have no choice but to stop the ride for a while.
After great adventure returning back to Split.
Overnight in Split.

DAY TEN
Private transfer to Split airport.

This is just one of our custom Croatia tours. Fill out the contact form and we can create your own custom tour!

Whistler is a town located north of Vancouver British Columbia, Canada. Well known for being home to Blackcomb ski resort, it attracts over three million visitors every year. If you’re looking for a breathtaking, snow covered getaway then you should plan your trip during the peak season which is between December and March.

Blackcomb Ski Resort

The largest ski resort in North America has 125 miles of slopes and over 30 miles of ski routes. The Peak 2 Peak gondola connects Blackcomb Mountain to Whistler making the total ski area over 1,800 acres. The resort offers every type of terrain, level of challenge, and snow conditions making it a skier and snowboarders paradise.

How to get there

Depending on what part of the world you’re coming from, one of the most direct ways of getting there is by flying into Vancouver International Airport. From there you can either rent a car or take a bus on the scenic Highway 99 straight to Whistler, which is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours from the airport.

Where to stay

For the ultimate luxury experience The Fairmont Chateau offers everything you could dream of on a winter holiday. Choose between 528 elegant alpine inspired rooms and suites with views of Blackcomb Mountain or the Village. It’s located near the lift, free local shuttle, and is a ski in ski out resort.

The Chateau offers multiple high end dining options including The Grill Room, a four diamond rated restaurant specializing in mouth-watering chops, steaks, and seafood. For a more casual option you will find that Portobello, located on the lower level of Fairmont, will indulge every taste bud with a delectable smokehouse menu and full service bar specializing in local craft beers.

Fairmont also offers a full health club, spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and four whirlpools with awe-inspiring views.

Another exceptional option is the Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside hotel. Superlatively located just steps away from the Blackcomb gondola and Whistler Village making any activity remarkably convenient.

The hotel offers a cozy, lodge-style atmosphere with your choice from multiple suite layouts and views. The amenities include a fitness facility with cardio equipment, free weights, a eucalyptus steam room, an outdoor heated salt water pool, and two whirlpools.

If you’re traveling with your family the hotel offers small child necessities, family games, and are able to coordinate babysitting services and family activities.

What to do

Although the main attractions that bring tourists in are skiing and snowboarding there are a multitude of other activities available right at your fingertips! Whistlers Coca-Cola Tube Park is a huge hit for both adults and children. To get there take the Excalibur Gondola from the Village and get off at the first stop on Blackcomb Mountain. After getting your pass choose your tube and take a seated ride on the “magic carpet” to the top where the fun begins. You have the option to choose between 7 lanes differing in length and steepness depending on how fast you want to go!

Whistler also offers indoor and outdoor ice skating, zip lining, snowmobiling, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and gondola rides.

For those of you who seek thrill then Whistler will not disappoint. Whistlers Sliding Centre offers you an Olympian-like experience of a lifetime. After an orientation you will enter a four person bobsled, steered by a trained pilot, and ride on the world’s fastest sliding track enduring forces up to 4 Gs and reaching speeds up to 75 mph. If you’re feeling like knocking something else off your bucket list then I highly recommend taking the plunge and visiting Whistler Bungee. Jumping 160 feet over the Cheakamus River, surrounded by basalt columns and forest may sound petrifying but the staff at Whistler Bungee are extraordinary- helping every step of the way, making sure you’re comfortable, and creating a breathtaking once in a lifetime experience.

Whistler Village

The Village is the perfect place to luxuriate the day away in shopping or eating and drinking- or both. There are 200 shops, boutiques, jewelers, galleries, and sports equipment specialties that will guarantee you find what you want and what you need.

Finding a place to eat or grab a drink isn’t difficult either. With over fifty restaurants and bars you can easily find something you and your friends or family will enjoy. One place you must stop by if you get the opportunity is the Dubh Linn Gate Irish pub. They serve traditional Irish pub fare, are family friendly until late evening, and even have live music.

Relax and Unwind

Whether you’ve had a long day of activities or just want a day to pamper yourself the 25,000 sq ft outdoor Scandinave Spa has every amenity imaginable. They offer a traditional Scandinavian bath experience with rustic hot and cold installations enabled to cleanse the skin, release negativity and toxins, and find inner stillness.

What to Pack

During the winter season you want to make sure you have all the essentials. Warm waterproof gear (jackets, snow pants, gloves, etc.), snow boots, thick socks, layers, any ski and snowboarding gear, and don’t forget your swimsuit!

Village Travel of Laguna Beach was lucky enough to visit the Nobu Hotel Los Cabos for the grand opening last month. The Nobu Hotel is a newly built 200-room boutique resort with a minimalist yet luxurious design and feel. Located on the Pacific Ocean at the bottom of the Baja Peninsula in Tiger Woods’ Diamante Golf Course community, guests have exclusive and unprecedented access to the courses previously only available to residents and world-class tournaments.

Nobu Hotel locations throughout the world are carefully curated for the luxury traveller that enjoys the best crafted food, immaculate service, stunning decor, and ultimate relaxation. You can also enjoy this fabulous service and gourmet food in unique settings such as Miami Beach, Chicago, Malibu, Manila, London, Barcelona, and beyond!

The first Nobu Hotel opened as a hotel tower within the famous Caesars Palace in Las Vegas in 2013. The three dynamic owners of Nobu, Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper, can be found cutting ribbons at every new hotel opening. The key to their success is a simple philosophy that includes unparalleled attention to detail that one would expect from a master of Japanese culinary traditions, the imagination one would find from a film producer, and a focus on service from one of the world’s top revered and well traveled actors.

Food at the Forefront

The Nobu Los Cabos Hotel centers around a uniquely tailored epicurean experience to delight each and every guest. With four onsite restaurants (and one more to come) and 24-hour room service, you’ll never be at a loss for delicious options. Located about 30 minutes from the town of Cabo San Lucas, there are a plethora of additional amazing restaurants, boutiques, shopping malls, and exciting nightlife.

However, most guests tend to never leave the property and just enjoy the incredible fresh fare, mind blowing sunsets, and ocean breezes on the expansive beachfront deck at the Nobu restaurant. Insider tip: the yellowtail jalapeño sashimi, spicy tuna on crispy rice, and black miso cod are not to be missed! On the next night, you should try Malibu Farm and savor some of the freshest farm-to-table food offerings in all of Cabo.

On our last night of this magical trip, we had the delightful experience to dine outside under the stars at the Pacific restaurant. Set amongst palm trees and a gorgeous fire and water feature, it’s the perfect breezy, beautiful setting to enjoy some spectacular cuisine.

We started off with a variety of perfectly crafted and unique cocktails made with the freshest ingredients. The bartenders showed us the ropes so that we could recreate the drinks back home! Then the amazing chef Paolo della Corte took us on an epicurean adventure with his signature upscale Mexican dishes. We dined on his recommendations and each Mexican dish was exquisitely presented and focused on colorful, intense and varied flavors. The steaks were perfectly prepared and practically melted in your mouth. Last but not least, we even got to sample his homemade truffle pasta, a throwback to his Italian roots that’s not to be missed!

Room Details and Amenities

The hotel boasts 97 standard rooms and 103 suites that all offer views of either pool and desert zen gardens, the ocean, or the golf course. Nobu also offers four gorgeous pools so you can enjoy a different one every day of your vacation! There is one adult-only infinity pool and an onsite kids club if you need to take your relaxation to the next level. All rooms have patios or terraces, and some suites include private pools.

Wellness

Besides amazing food and beautiful rooms and grounds, there is a clear focus on health and wellness at Nobu Los Cabos. You will find your inner zen within their 13,000-square-foot spa with 13 treatment rooms. Relaxation begins with their signature indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy, which includes steam room and sauna, an outdoor hydrotherapy garden, cabana jacuzzi, pools and outdoor experiential showers.

The Fitness Facility offers nearly 4,000 square feet of fitness equipment options, in addition to an indoor/outdoor yoga and spinning area and daily complimentary classes.

Creative Meeting & Wedding spaces

Meetings, events, and weddings also have their place in the sun at Nobu with 14,000 square feet of space that breaks down into 11 flexible spaces, including two ballrooms, a boardroom, pre-function space, and outdoor terraces and lawns.

In addition, the wide-open outdoor spaces of the hotel provide plenty of creative event spots, including breakout spaces that center around fire pits, marble platforms looking out at the beach, or function spaces near the pool.

How to Book and Getting There

Fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and it’s just a quick 45-minute to the hotel. If you would like a relaxing trip away from it all, Village Travel of Laguna Beach would love to send you to this beautiful resort! Please mention this article for complimentary breakfast for two daily, and a $100 resort credit*

Please contact us for information on this hotel, or any other destination for your travel needs!

It’s no surprise that Croatia has become one of the highest growing tourist destinations. The alluring beaches, warm weather, and stunning architecture attract millions of visitors from around the world every year. Located in the Adriatic Sea, on the southern coast of Croatia, is the entrancing stonewall city of Dubrovnik.

How to get there

Once arriving at the Dubrovnik Airport it’s a short 25 minute bus, taxi, or pre-arranged transfer service to get to Old Town.

Where to stay

If you’re looking for a hotel that’s not only captivating but is also within walking distance to Old Town, shops, and restaurants then I highly recommend the Hilton Imperial. This historical building has recently been refurbished and is reopening March 1, 2020. It was originally built in the 1800’s and was known as the Grand Hotel Imperial. During conflict in the early 90’s the hotel was shut down only to later be remodeled and opened as the Hilton Imperial in 2005.

The hotel is only 110 yards from the Pile Gate leading into Old Town. It has four dining options including an Executive lounge, Porat restaurant, Imperial bar and lounge, and Lounge bar. In the morning enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast. For lunch and dinner enjoy an extensive menu including soups, salads (the caprese is spectacular), pastas, fresh seafood, and delectable main courses. If you enjoy in delicious wine and craft cocktails then you will not be disappointed.The hotel also offers full spa services and facilities including a fitness room, sauna, steam room, and swimming pool.

Where to go

Whether you want to visit historical sites and landmarks, be active, relax on a beach, or spend a day on one or more of the many neighboring islands, no matter what you choose you can’t go wrong.

The City Walls, Fort Lovrijenac, Bell Tower, and the Cathedral are among some of the most frequented historical destinations. You can explore them on your own or get a guided tour from a local to really delve into the rich history behind what built these structures. To get an unparalleled view and see Dubrovnik from a different perspective I highly recommend that you take the cable car that begins near Old Town and takes you to the top of Mount Sdrj.

One of the most memorable experiences I have from Dubrovnik is exploring past the shores. Taking a guided boat and snorkeling tour to the blue and green caves to explore the sea was one of the best decisions I made. If you enjoy being active guided kayak and canoe tours are available that take you through multiple caves and visit some of the surrounding islands. This adventure is something I wouldn’t pass up!

If there’s a day where you just want to relax on the beach, sip on a drink, and take a dip in the ocean then Sveti Jakov Beach is a quintessential spot to check out. The water is crystal clear and the service is impeccable. It is the perfect getaway to relax and unwind. Getting to this private beach is just a short water taxi from the Old Town port.

Another great day trip is visiting the shorefront cities of the surrounding islands. With restaurants, shops, and beaches to explore the options are endless. Sipan, Korcula, and Lopud are just some of the popular destinations near Dubrovnik. To get to the islands you take a scenic ferry ride that departs from the Dubrovnik ferry port.

When to go

The peak season to visit Croatia is in July and August. This is the busiest season for visitors due to the weather. If you’re looking for fewer crowds then June and September are the best time to visit as it still is beautiful and warm weather just slightly lower temperatures than summer months.

[tg_program title=”Village Travel specializes in custom itineraries of Croatia fill out the contact form to find out more!”]

Big news is afoot at the Disney Cruise Line as it recently announced the expansion of its fleet from four to six ships as well as new menu items at its signature Italian specialty restaurant, Palo.

Two New Ships On The Way

The press release – posted in its entirety in Fab News here – regarding the two new ships set to come online is vague on specific details, but a number of things are still known. Plus, several other tidbits can be gleaned upon closer inspection.

To start, the two as-yet-unnamed ships will be built where the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy were constructed – the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany – and they will launch in 2021 and 2023 respectively. That’s 9 years after the Fantasy began cruising in 2012 versus the 11 year gap between theDisney Wonder (1999) and Disney Dream (2011) before it. So, the line’s expansion is accelerating.

Despite rumors that a new pair of ships would be sized somewhere between the Magic-class and Dream-class, the ships will actually measure in slightly larger at 135,000 tons – 5,000 tons more than the Dreamand Fantasy – but sport the same number of cabins – about 1,250.

Where might that extra space be allocated? Take a closer look at the rough rendering of the expanded fleet above. The greyed out newcomers actually display an extra forward deck of suites above the spa facility, meaning the suites could be larger this time around or the same size and doubled up in quantity with some other cabins being displaced elsewhere. Also of note, the aft superstructure does not appear to feature porthole window cabins anymore. Behind an architecturally curved swoop looks to be more balconies. Lastly, the AquaDuck water coaster is not present in the rendering, but a newly bowed out pool deck between the funnels is.

Surely these renderings are nowhere near final indications of the exact vessels to come, and many changes may still be in store, deck attractions included. As competing cruise lines raise the bar with articulated crane arms and suspended track cycles literally taking guests to new heights, one wonders what Disney next has up its sleeve. A hybridization between the AquaDuck and AquaDunk or something entirely new are possible. I’ve always thought it would only be a matter of time before a line attempts an onboard roller coaster, but shifting centers of gravity would make that very difficult.

One idea I have sketched out in my mind (and paper admittedly) is actually a shipboard Tower of Terrorattraction themed to Captain Nemo and his floating research station. Enlarged passenger bathyspheres could replace elevators as the thematic ride vehicles as they are launched for deep sea depth from high above and dropped below the waterline to the keel before something goes wrong and the mechanism haywires in typical thrill ride fashion. Shaft effects could include water bubbles and aquariums to simulate the dive, and any Vulcania narrative could tie in nicely with the Castaway Cay-submerged Nautilus ride vehicle from Magic Kingdom’s former 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction. How’s that for some armchair imagineering? (For the record, I once aspired to be a mechanical engineer to design ride systems for WDI, so I have several such ideas rolling around in my noggin.) I’d love to hear your ideas for Disney Cruise Line attractions you’d like to see in the future.

Returning to earth from the blue sky, one thing that is for certain is that these two new Disney ships are sure to surprise with new attractions (more Star Wars most likely to begin with) pushing the boundaries of imaginative onboard offerings.

New Palo Menu Items

Also, since I last checked in, Disney has announced new menu items for its Palo adults-only Italian specialty restaurant fleet-wide. According to the line, the new choices are set to “revisit the restaurant’s Italian roots with the addition of regional recipes, authentic ingredients and time-honored techniques.”

The main event is now a Esperienza del Vino wine pairing menu option featuring six entirely new courses, each accompanied by a glass of wine or spirit and described by Disney below:

~ Coppa (thinly sliced cured pork neck) on dressed fava beans, garnished with sharp pecorino cheese and micro celery paired with a refreshing Venetian Bellini made with sparkling Prosecco, ripe white peaches and a hint of raspberry

Gnocchi with nutty cep mushroom sauce paired with Bellavista Franciacorta Cuvee Brut, a rich blend of 30 distinctive wines

~ Poached white asparagus with smoked anchovies, quail egg and truffle oil paired with dry, flowery Elena Walch Gewurztraminer from the northern province of South Tyrol White Asparagus

~ Sea bass with spinach and buckwheat paired with La Scolca Gavi dei Gavi Black Label, crisp and acidic with undertones of almond and lime ~ Beef striploin—aged for 25 days, seared and roasted with rosemary—thinly sliced and served with dressed arugula paired with full-bodied Antinori Tignanello Marchesi, a potent Tuscan red with notes of spice, fruit, oak, licorice and rosemary ~ Creamy mascarpone mousse, enclosed in a delicate white chocolate dome and served atop fluffy rhubarb and grappa sponge cake in a bed of sweet consommé jelly, elegantly garnished with a floral and fruity flourish, paired with a soft Alexander Platinum Grappa Mascarpone Mousse

What’s more are additional a la carte dinner offerings described by Disney below:

~ For two to share: a whole roasted chicken, marinated for 24 hours in lemon, sea salt and rosemary – beautifully presented in a copper serving dish with roasted baby vegetables, asparagus and potatoes and topped with a Barolo wine reduction typical to the mountainous region of Piedmont in the northwest Roasted Chicken

~ A piquant Dover sole is fileted tableside and served with regional staples like capers, anchovies, sundried tomatoes and thyme potatoes ~ Classic sea scallops with an exquisite Prosecco and black truffle reduction Sea Scallops

~ Returning to the menu with a new twist, seared ahi tuna steak is prepared with blanched green beans, roasted new potatoes and peppered quail eggs ~ Light, creamy tiramisu—a coffee-infused classic Tiramisu

~ A limoncello tart for a refreshing pop of citrus Palo requires reservations and a dinner surcharge of $30 per person, and the Esperienza del Vino wine pairing experience is priced at an additional $59 per person.