This destination is becoming increasingly popular and achieves positive reviews and repeat custom. Thanks to an opportunity afforded by Jet2 Holidays I recently enjoyed a brief introduction.

An educational involves experiencing the destination whilst visiting a range of hotels and facilities. Croatia features many highlights and options including a long coastline, many islands easily accessible by ferry and towns and cities of historical importance. Our base was the impressive Hotel Croatia in Cavtat, only a short transfer from the airport – a small resort featuring a chic marina where an ever changing range of vessels arrived in the afternoon to moor up overnight, a picturesque setting with many harbour side fresh fish restaurants in which to while away the evening over a long meal of many courses.

Dubrovnik is only 18kms away, via the coast road with spectacular views. A walking tour of the walled Old Town was undertaken, the history of which was explained up to and including the recent domestic conflict. Unfortunately the many shops and eating establishments had to be foregone for another time. Definitely factor in at least half a day in your schedule – and not just a viewing of Game of Thrones locations! Please note however – this was during June, with very little shade to be had for much of the day, and only one cruise ship had disembarked – but it was still very busy.

Prior to my visit I read about the local concept of ‘fjaka’ – a psychological state of mind brought about by minimising work commitments and attaining the absence of stress, not quite laziness but certainly not rushing to fulfil too many commitments. Our packed itinerary did not permit such – but I’m sure, on an already planned longer subsequent visit, this will be achieved. If you are considering Croatia for your next holiday then please contact me at the Ambleside branch of Gates Travel for first-hand knowledge and advice, hotel room availability for this year is limited – but 2019 is already on sale.

Please also note all Gates Travel colleagues have a wealth of acquired travel knowledge and experiences, have recently also visited San Diego and Las Vegas, cruises featuring Green Spain / Asturias and the Low Countries and Channel Isles plus a city break to Budapest.