WELCOME TO HVAR CROATIA

With over a thousand Croatian islands in the Adriatic Sea, Hvar is the island that is most popular and voted as one of the best of the best. If you're longing for peace, gourmet food, fun in the sun and zipping along the sea, you can satisfy all of life's little treasures right here in Hvar.

Hvar (pronounced hwahr) has been a popular resort destination for over a century. Croatia is a member of the European Union, and my guess is...you'll begin to see and hear a lot more about the charm of Croatia. As you make your way into town you'll pass the harbor and enjoy the crystal clear water filled with charming vessels.

Hvar has a mild Mediterranean climate and alluring beaches of pebble, smooth sun-bleached stone and white sand. It's one of the sunniest spots in Europe, with sunshine averaging about 2,720 hours a year.

The main piazza - St. Stephen's Cathedral

Hvar Town has one of Dalmatia's largest town squares, a large 17th-century building that later became a Renaissance theatre, and the Cathedral of St Stjepan, a splendid example of the Dalmatian Renaissance with a four-level bell tower. 

Everywhere you walk the cobblestone streets and winding pathways change color as the sun begins to set. 

We stayed at the Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort which includes the Bonj Les Bains beach club, a 1930's white stone colonnade and the island's most glamorous spot for soaking up the rays.

The Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort offers a wide range of water activities, a smooth sandy beach, paddle boards, snorkeling and if you have a chance you'll want to rent a boat. We rented one for 6 hours and it was a blast, we had so much fun exploring the islands, tossing you anchor anywhere you want, diving in and swimming in crystal clear water.

Benedictine Convent and Church of St. Anthony the Abbot, 17th-18th cent.

The Benedictine Convent has been located here since 1664, originally in the residential complex of the poet Hanibal Lucić's family (1485-1553), which was left by his daughter-in-law Julija in her will to the Benedictines in 1591. Next to the convent is the Baroque church of st. Anthony the Abbot and John the Baptist from the 17th cent.

We found GIAXA on our first night in town. Their stunning light fixture instantly caught our attention. In the 15th century, during the Venetian rule, Hvar became the major port on the east coast of the Adriatic. The city walls were completed in 1450 and the Franciscan Monastery is under construction (1461). By the end of the century, a noble family called Jakša built a family palace of Late Gothic style. After five hundred years of upgrades and changes, you will find GIAXA (Venetian name for Jakša). Beautiful setting, a true culinary experience from chef Marko Krolo. (credit cards accepted).

BACCHUS - By far our favorite lunch experience. Bacchus Palmizana (on the Pakleni islands) You will need a boat to enjoy Bacchus and it's worth it!

Wrapped in an oasis of tranquility, enjoy an amazing view and loose yourself in the shade of an olive grove. The service was exceptional and the food was incredibly satisfying...so we returned the following day .(Bacchus takes credit cards).

Fresh off the boat, nice catch!

Favorite dishes were the grilled calamari, garlic spinach, grilled fish, and you can't beat the view. We loved it so much we returned the next day for lunch. Try to get a table by the water, but everywhere you sit is a great experience. The olive trees are magical and provide excellent shade for a sunny day.

Bacchus is a family run restaurant, located in their own olive grove, the restaurant offers a natural, tranquil atmosphere along with a specific method of cooking in a traditional bread oven. Overall it was a terrific experience. 

There is plenty of spaces available to anchor a boat, large or small. It all flows effortlessly. 

After a tasty lunch, head back to your boat for a refreshing swim. The water temperature is just the right amount of chill and feels exhilarating when you take the plunge.

After spending the day on the sea, I had my family drop me off in the harbor for a little afternoon shopping. Easy in, easy out.

I found YUYU to be the best boutique on the island. You can find everything you need to remember your trip from here. The overall dress-code is casual, a kaftan, shorts sandals...it's really all you'll need.

Bathing suite, shoes, clutches, jewelry, and adorable kaftans.

We found MACONDO on the second night of our trip and returned the following night for a repeat performance. The owner is there on hand, along with an attentive staff and the food was fresh and excellent.  Be sure to sit outside on the walkway, which makes for a fun people watching experience. Many of the customers are locals, and that's usually a good sign.

I had fish every night while we were in Croatia. The food is simple, fresh and delicious.  It's also really well priced. Here you will need Cash.

Amfora Grand Beach Resort - Most rooms have a birds eye view. If you stay here you will have access to the private beach club Bonj les bains and it's about a 5-minute walk along the sea into town.

The Bonj 'les bains' beach club offers lounge chairs, towels, umbrellas and private pontoons for all-day shade. 

When you're ready to head to your next island you will want to take the ferry; it was a delightful, smooth, easy and relaxing ride. I suggest your tickets a day or two before you depart.

Hotel Adriana is located in town with this amazing view of the harbour. The Amfora and the Adriana are the main hotels. I noticed several apartments when strolling along inside the town that looked charming, I think that's worthy of looking into.

HVAR

Don't forget your swim goggles, it's absolutely dreamy under here!  Next stop...Dubrovnik.

     “For whatever we lose (like a you or a me), It’s always our self we find in the sea.” – e.e. Cummings

WELCOME TO SPLIT CROATIA

We always look forward to our Summer excursions, especially when we are about to journey to an unknown territory. We had read several articles on the beauty of Croatia, so we got busy with a little research, and off we went...and so happy we decided to explore this seafront promenade.

First stop: Split

Split, Croatia is the second-largest city of Croatia and the largest city of the region of Dalmatia. It lies on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, centered on the Roman Palace of Emperor Diocletian. Surrounded by mountains and sea, Split has it all: Roman ruins, shops, and fantastic restaurants! 

Stroll along the promenade and you'll find plenty of areas to relax and appreciate the history along with a breth-taking view.

 Watching the city wake up on my morning run.

Every stone-paved path you turn on is more exciting than the next. We followed the voices and stumbled on this courtyard of incredible singers.

It's magical, mystical and you feel as if you're on the back lot of a movie set. The stone changes color as the sun begins to set, you will find an abundance of little restaurants at every turn, every corner. It's hard to decide where to park yourself for a meal. We found the places on the inside were the best, always look for a few locals and you can usually find an authentic experience, and fewer tourist. 

 Croatia grows an abundance of Lavander. Oils, lotions, and potions were available everywhere, and we found scarves...(my favorite) and their Olive Oil was incredible!  Make sure you wear a shoe that has a rubber sole. The first time I stepped out in my flat sandals, I almost had a close encounter with the stone floor! All of Croatia is paved with these stones, so FYI wear rubber soles. It's fairly casual so you can save your favorite heels for another location. The shoes I'm wearing in the photo, I purchesad in Capri. They are perfect for walking around day or night. They're no too high, and very comfy. Most importantly...no slipping! You can find them on Amazon. Made by Toni Pons.  (you can shop the post below)

Diocletian's Palace, a Unesco World Heritage site dating back to A.D. 295, and a recent film location for "Game of Thrones"  The "palace" is a mini-city of its own. There are more that 200 buildings and 3,000 residents within an eight-acre enclosed space. At night you can listen to beautiful music as you wander the streets.

Welcome to BOKERIA - The best restaurant in Split.

BOKERIA was recommended to us from a friend. The owner and manager and yes, you might find him in the kitchen... is Luka. He's from Split, attended UCLA, played water-polo and moved back to open up the BEST restaurant in Split. We had several meals there and a water and coffee break. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A favorite for the locals.

The interior is stunning. Bokeria was inspired by the La Boqueira market in Barcelona. It's modern and classy design, shelves lined with beautiful wine bottles and liquor. The flowers change daily, thanks to the daily market up the way, and you can experience a great vibe plus the service was excellent.

A large chandelier hangs from a chain in the middle of the room and extends over two floors. You'll have the choice of Mediterranean meals and the menu is decided based on the season and the fresh, organic vegetables available. It's right in the center, just ask anyone "where is Bokeria" and you'll be sent through the city maze and land upon a real gem! Be sure to make a reservation, It's the most popular spot in Split. (+385-21) 35 55 77) Ask for Luka, tell him your friends from Los Angeles sent you...the other Luca (Norton)

One of our favorite activities when traveling is renting a boat. We love cruising along, making stops along the way, and of course jumping in. What makes this city so charming is not just it's beaches and rocky coves of nearby islands, but it's the breathtaking tranquil blue sea. 

Blue Lagoon

You can see all the way to the bottom, it's the same temperature as the South of France, so it's a bit chilly and it feels perfect the minute you take the plunge. 

Don't forget to bring your own goggles or purchase some. You're swimming in the salty sea, besides it's exciting to see every little creature under the sea. Vitamin A Swimwear  / Cressi Goggles (click on links below for shopping)

 Restaurant - DVOR  overlooking the sea. A popular game called Picigin - It's a traditional ball game from Split, that is played on the beach. It's an amateur sport played in shallow water consisting of players keeping a tiny ball from touching the water, and you must wear a Speedo.

DVOR - Another popular restaurant on the water, located outside of the village. It's about a 25-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride. We decided to stay in the village for our meals, but it's worth the walk to relax on the patio and observe in the guys playing Picigin.

 Outside Patio at DVOR while watching a game of Picigin (and they get CRAZY playing this game) it's so fun to watch.

As you're strolling around town and the sun is setting you can hear music and singing everywhere you go. Split comes alive at night, the sun sets around 9 pm. and it's a late crowd as most European towns are.

Expertly baked breads and wraps.

Caught a great moment with a local nun walking by the statue Grgur Ninski - a  medieval Croatian bishop of Nin who strongly opposed the Pope and official circles of the Church. He introduced the national language in the religious services after the Great Assembly in 926, according to traditional Croatian history. Until that time, services were held only in Latin (being under the jurisdiction of Roman influences before the Great Schism), not being understandable to a majority of the population. Not only was this important for Croatian language and culture, but it also made Christianity stronger within the Croation kingdom.

Waking up for a morning run and finding this along the way was an inspiration to swing by on my way back. The berries, peaches, and the plums were incredible!  The market is only a minute walk past the hotel.  Nike / Alo 

Seven days a week you'll find fresh food, fruit, flowers and yes...

Sardines!  I ate sardines almost every day in Croatia. The fish was "fresh off the boat"  I do believe the fish here was the best I've ever had. 

Make sure to exchange your money before you go. Croatian money is called kuna, 20 kuna is about $3 -50 kuna -$7.40 100 kuna is about $15. Take plenty of cash, not all places take credit cards. Almost everyone speaks English and they're lovely people.

Next stop is Hvar. The hotel takes you to the Ferry, it's about a 5 minute golf cart ride - Buy your ferry tickets the day before because it sells out.

Riding the ferries from island to island is simple and enjoyable, it's a scenic route the entire way along the sea.

Map of Split. No wonder the Roman Emperor Diocletian chose this spot in Croatia to build his lavish retirement palace in AD295. 

We departed Rome on Vueling Airlines, a quick 2-hour flight, easy baggage claim and the hotel is there to greet you. It's about a 45-minute drive into Split, with a nice scenic route.

We stayed at the CORNARO HOTEL, very clean, with a helpful staff. They have wi-fi, and you will need your adapters for charging. There are several hotels to choose from, The Cornaro was a 2 minute walk into the village.

If you decide to take a vacation to Croatia and you have any questions, send me an e-mail I'd love to help if I can. Our stay was for two days and we were on the go and experience a lot in a short amount of time. I think having three days might give you a little more time for sightseeing in the village, the museums, and having another night for dinner, but you won't want to miss the other two islands, so it all depends on what you enjoy doing. We spent three nights in Hvar and two in Dubrovnik.  I look forward to returning one day. Split is so charming and It was truly some of the best food I've ever had. If you've traveld to Croatia let me know what your favorite place was.   Next stop...Hvar! 

                                        Fun Fact: The neck tie was invented in Croatia

         Since achieving their independence in 1992, the people of Croatia have built a democratic society based on the rule of law, respect for human rights, and a free market economy. Elton Gallegly

FLIGHT 001 - ORGANIZED CLOTHING & GADGET IDEAS

There's something to be said about looking stylish and being organized when heading to the airport. It's great to be in charge of your own comfort, and you feel good when the inside of your luggage is organized as well as the outside. 

The outfit you wear on the plane will be your outfit when you arrive at your destination. Choose your wardrobe that feels cozy in your seat and also works for your arrival. Vince Sweater / Adidas Superstars /  CJ Drawstring Pants / Rimowa Carry-on / J.Crew T / Emi-Jay hair ties / Ray-Ban Sunglasses / J.Crew Grey Scarf / Gucci Backpack

Welcome to FLIGHT 001 - The one stop shop for your travel treasures.

FLIGHT 001 / 8321 West 3rd. Street, Los Angeles CA. (323) 966-0001

So you're feeling great about your travel wear, let's take a look at a few ideas for perfect packing every time. One of my favorite things to do, before we leave for our vacation, is seek out any new inventory at FLIGHT 001.  It's like a candy shop for travelers. I've been shopping here for several years and look forward to seeing just how organized I can get. Here you will find all the necessities you need for a flawless journey. You can find great travel-related items with a little fun and fashion to make packing a lot less painful.  experience, everyone working is helpful and patient.  Travel on over to FLIGHT 001 for a one-way first-class experience and excellent customer service. Be sure to ask for Digby, he's incredibly helpful and great to work with.

When you're on a long flight and if you're in a tight space (the middle) it helps to be organized, and it's much more enjoyable if you have all of your own personal items. It seems like the AC is always blasting so why not snuggle up with your own blanket and neck pillow. I have all three items pictured above, and  I never travel without them. I look forward to using this soft and lightweight padded eye mask. It's pressure free and smudge free, so it won't leave a mark on your face!  

I'm not sure how many cute pouches I have...I've definitely lost count. But it always puts a smile on my face when I'm lurking around in my carry-on and read a positive phrase. I always take a photo of what's inside my bag; it's a great way to stay organized. I keep my vitamins, l'occitane hand lotion, eye drops, face serum, Kiehl's lip balm, and a tiny mirror inside the pink plastic bag. I have all of my charging cables, plugs and ear buds in another pouch.  All airline regulated. If you like to be an organized traveller and want great looking items, this is the place for you.

We started using these spacepak bags three years ago and I can't say how efficient they are. I pack a lot less when using spacepak bags and it helps they're colorful and labeled.

Don't forget your adapters. This 4-in-1 universal adapter is all you will ever need. I purchased this for my travels last year, and it's a smart & easy way to stay charged, it's color coated to make it easy-breezy . I use the toiletry spacepak bag for all of my lotions and potions and it holds up to 30 bottles. It's a perfect size and when you're unpacking; just unzip... it unfolds neatly and you'll find a small hook if you need to create a little more counter space.

Neck pillow / TSA pop quart  bag / Passport Cover (love having a bright color  / Money and Passport Holders for under your clothing - I just bought one for our son who is on a school trip, makes it safe and easy to be hands-free and on-the-go.

Bring a little fun to your bag tags.

Don't leave home without your stretch bands. Sometimes it's fun to workout in your room and enjoy the view at the same time. While you're working out why not download a language app and learn a few phrases if you're visiting a foreign country.

Here are the other necessities packed away in one of my pouches. Handy wipes are a must. I wipe down everything...headrest, seatbelt, arms, tray table, window, and air vents. I find the heat patches work well if you're on a long flight and need to relax your muscles. Boost your immune system with Airborne tablets, put Aquaphor on your feet and then slip on your socks. SEA-BANDS if you feel a little nauseous, or your stomach is a little upset.

Steam Fast Steamer / Packs easy and works like a charm. Some hotels are equipped with an iron and ironing board, but not always. I prefer having what I need when I need it.

SKYROAM / WIFI all the time. If your flight gets delayed and you need to catch up on a little work or some on-line shopping, here's your answer. A secure service to keep you caught up. The cost is $99.99 for the initial cost and $10.00 a day for (8) hours. You can link up to 5 devices for the $10.00-day charge. It last for 10 hours, it's a little smaller than an iPhone 6; It does not work on a plane. When you're traveling around and need a connection, here's the solution.  Set up time is about 5 minutes.  We had a two hour drive today, and oh boy am I happy I had this!  We were lost, but now found thanks to the SKYROAM.  I whipped it out of my bag and off we safely went. Thank You Skyroam!!  You really do work.

No matter where you're headed be grateful for the journey. It's that time when we step out of our routines and make some new discoveries. It's a chance to reconnect with our family, friends and ourselves...meet new people and embrace different cultures. Sometimes when we discover the unknown all things seem possible.

        “One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller

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