Overseas Adventure Travel - Hidden Gems of the Dalmatian Coast & Greece 2021
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YOUR O.A.T. ADVENTURE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE®
Hidden Gems of the Dalmatian Coast & Greece
2021
Small Groups: 20-25 travelers—guaranteed! (average of 22)
®
Overseas Adventure Travel
The Leader in Personalized Small Group Adventures on the Road Less Traveled
1
Dear Traveler,
At last, the world is opening up again for curious travel lovers like you and me. And the O.A.T. Hidden Gems
of the Dalmatian Coast & Greece itinerary you’ve expressed interest in will be a wonderful way to resume the
discoveries that bring us so much joy. You might soon be enjoying standout moments like these:
In my mind, nothing is more idyllic than the rural villages of the Croatian countryside. To immerse myself
in their traditions and everyday life, I love to explore communities like Varazdin, a small city nestled on the
Drava River—often referred to as “Little Vienna.” You’ll see what I mean when you visit a local farmhouse
here, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the owner and witness the inner workings of the property.
You’ll also get to help the farm’s chef prepare klipici, a doughy baguette, and taste wine made on site in the
farm’s wine cellar. You’ll finish your discoveries on the farm over a traditional, farm-fresh meal.
I believe the most moving stories you’ll hear are from the locals who live and work in the regions you travel
to around the world, and that is what I found to be true in Dubrovnik when I spoke with Aida Cvjetkovic, a
local woman who defied gender expectations during the seige of Dubrovnik. You’ll hear her harrowing story
as well when you sit down with her to hear how she and 2,000 other brave women stayed to help their city
survive the war—despite the strict gender norms of the time.
The way we see it, you’ve come a long way to experience the true culture—not some fairytale version of it.
So we keep our groups small, with only 20-25 travelers (average 22) to ensure that your encounters with
local people are as intimate and authentic as possible. It’s also why your O.A.T. Trip Experience Leader will
be a resident “insider” who can show you the culture as only a local can.
To ensure that your adventure is truly unique, put your own personal stamp on it. You can arrive early and
stay later, add a pre- or post-trip extension, spend time in a Stopover city, or combine two or more trips.
Plus, your itinerary offers ample free time so you can pursue your own interests.
So until the day comes when you are off to enjoy your Hidden Gems of the Dalmatian Coast & Greece
adventure, I hope you will relish the fun and anticipation that this O.A.T. Adventure Travel Planning
Guide® will inspire. Should you have further questions, feel free to call our Regional Adventure Counselors
at 1-800-955-1925.
Love and peace,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman, Overseas Adventure Travel
P.S. For more inspiration, you can watch videos and slideshows from travelers like you at www.oattravel.
com/traveler-moments. You can also share some of your own favorite moments by uploading your
travel videos and slideshows directly onto the trip-specific pages of our website.
USA Today “Best Tours”
10Best Readers’ Presented by
Choice Awards Solo Traveler
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CONTENTS
A Letter from Harriet Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The O.A.T. Difference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Grand Circle Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The Leader in Solo Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
HIDDEN GEMS OF THE DALMATIAN ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS:
COAST & GREECE CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE
Your Adventure at a Glance: Shopping: What to Buy, Customs,
Where You’re Going, What it Costs, Shipping & More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
and What’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Your Detailed Day-To-Day Itinerary . . . . . . . . . . 9 DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY
Pre-Trip Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Croatia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Post-Trip Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 78
Deck Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Croatia: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Dates & Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Montenegro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 80
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION Montenegro: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements. . . 41 Albania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
41
No Visas Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 82
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . 43 Albania: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Vaccines Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Greece. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Money Matters: Local Currency & Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 84
Tipping Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Greece: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Tipping Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Slovenia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . 51
Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 86
52
Optional Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Slovenia: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Communicating with Home from Abroad . . 53
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . 54
RESOURCES
Suggested Packing Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Suggested Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Electricity Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
89
The Balkans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . 60
Suggested Film & Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Aboard Your Ship: Cabin Features,
Dining & Services on Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
M/V Athena, M/V Artemis & M/V Arethusa . . . 63
Ship Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
O.A.T. Health & Safety Measures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
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EXPERIENCE THE O.A.T. DIFFERENCE
in the Adriatic
This adventure not only showcases iconic sights, but takes you beyond them to experience the
culture through unique activities, engagement with the natural world, and authentic encounters
with local people. Since our founding in 1978, O.A.T. has become America’s leader in personalized
small group journeys on the road less traveled.
SMALL GROUPS: 8-16 TRAVELERS LOCAL MODES OF TRANSPORTATION
(AVERAGE OF 13)—GUARANTEED To see the world like the locals, you should
The world feels more intimate and engaging travel like one. Our small group size allows
when your experience of it is also personal us to take the roads and waterways that are
and genuine. That’s why our groups never less traveled, and we often follow them using
exceed 16 travelers. This gives you access to the same unique modes of transportation
people and places larger groups simply can’t that the locals use—be it a canoe, a camel or a
reach. More authentic interactions. Deeper vintage cab.
bonds with your travel mates. Personal service
from your Trip Experience Leader. Smoother UNIQUE LODGINGS
transitions. And a far more satisfying Our lodgings reflect the local character,
experience than any traditional tour offers. from smaller family-run hotels and historic
manors to comfy inns. Occasionally, larger
THE BEST TRIP EXPERIENCE LEADERS hotels closer to city centers are used. Wherever
Your English-speaking, O.A.T. Trip Experience you stay, you’re assured fine comfort and
Leader is a resident of the region you are hospitality.
visiting, so you will get a true insider’s
perspective that brings each place alive—the OUR WORLDWIDE OFFICES
stories, food, customs, hidden treasures With 36 regional offices around the world,
and more. we are perfectly poised to leverage our local
relationships to deliver an excellent experience
AUTHENTIC CULTURAL CONNECTIONS and value. During this trip, you’ll be supported
Engage with local people through visits to by our team in Croatia.
farms, factories, markets, and artisans’
studios; school visits; Home-Hosted meals;
and more.
Toast to new discoveries during your Home-Hosted Dinner Discover the historic treasures of Dubrovnik's Old Town
in Gromaca
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THE PILLARS OF DISCOVERY
Enriching. Inspiring. Unforgettable. These features form the foundation
of your Hidden Gems of the Dalmatian Coast & Greece adventure.
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION (GCF) VISIT A DAY IN THE LIFE
GCF was established in 1992 to help change Do you ever wonder, “What would it be like
people’s lives in the world where we live, to live here?” when you visit new lands? Let’s
work, and travel. To date, we have pledged or find out during your O.A.T. A Day in the Life, an
donated $200 million worldwide. exclusive, immersive experience that places
you in the heart of a community where you’ll
By investing in the places we explore—
meet various people where they live, work,
including local schools, cooperatives, or arts
and play; visit the neighborhood school; lend a
centers—we hope to give locals the skills and
hand with daily chores; and break bread with
confidence they need to become leaders of
our hosts.
their generation and preserve their heritage
for many years to come. We’re proud to play Perhaps you’ll join a local resident or
a part in preserving precious locales like the community leader for a guided walk through
Bryggen waterfront district of Bergen, a living the town, visit a market, or enjoy a unique
example of the glory days of the Hanseatic opportunity to meet teachers and students at
League, and supporting villages like Harmi in a local school if school is in session.
Estonia, whose once-struggling school is now
a center of community life. HOME-HOSTED EXPERIENCES
Stories shared. Differences solved. Taste buds
CONTROVERSIAL TOPICS engaged. Good will extended. It’s amazing the
Every culture has its joys and achievements, things that can happen across a kitchen table,
and we celebrate them all. But every place so we’ll break into groups of 4-5 to join a local
also has its challenges, and to gloss over them family in their home for a snack or a meal.
would not do justice to those whose stories This is a rare opportunity to witness family
need to be told—nor to you, as a traveler who life, learn local customs, and taste some
deserves more than a sugar-coated version of home-cooked fare.
things. So our Trip Experience Leaders will
On this adventure, we’ll learn more about
lead frank discussions on controversial issues,
the rich culture of Croatia’s remote gems like
and introduce you to people whose stories will
the countryside village of Gromaca, where
expand your understanding.
you’ll meet village residents and learn more
For example, we’ll speak to an investigative about their way of life during a Home-Hosted
journalist about the influence of the Albanian Dinner with a local family.
mafia over the country’s government, and
the violent measures they’re willing to
deploy against those who would try to stand
up to them.
5
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION
Changing people’s lives, one village, one school, one person at a time
ON THIS ADVENTURE …
Dear Traveler,
Since our inception in 1992, the Grand Circle
In 1992 we established Grand Circle Foundation has pledged or donated more
Foundation, an entity of the Lewis Family than $200 million to projects around the
Foundation, as a means to give back to world. Here are just a few of the ways we have
the world that had already given us so partnered with the communities on this trip..
much. We’ve pledged or donated more
than $200 million worldwide to support Albania Earthquake Relief
the education of young people and the Total Donations: $20,000
preservation of international treasures In 2019, Albania was rocked by a 6.4 magnitude earth-
and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and quake, killing 51 people, and leaving thousands with
the conservation of natural resources for homes destroyed and uninhabitable. GCF decided
future generations. that the best way to help was providing wood stoves,
as the winter had arrived and these families had no
Of course, none of this would be possible heat in their tents, and no means to cook. 35 wood
without your help. A portion of the stoves were purchased, including the accessories
proceeds of every adventure is donated to that come with them, and delivered to these people
Grand Circle Foundation—so just as your in their tents. In total, 35 families (almost 175 people)
life will be enriched by the discoveries were provided heat for the winter. The next project
you’ll make on your journey, you’ll also will be to rebuild one of the buildings that will be
help to enrich the lives of the people needed the most by the local community.
you’ll meet along the way. Thank you
Kivotos Ark of the World
for traveling with us, and for helping to
Total Donations: $7500
change people’s lives.
Kivotos is a youth center, soup kitchen, and shelter
Love and peace, that cares for 150 children, 7 days per week. Kivotos is
dedicated to providing a safe place for children from
hundreds of ethnic backgrounds, religions, languages,
Harriet R. Lewis
and cultures. GCF's support was used to provide
necessities for the shelter including clothes, shoes,
Chair, Grand Circle Foundation
pencils, notebooks, books, and other essentials.
Rebuild Dubrovnik Fund
Total Donations: $55,850
To help in the reconstruction efforts by the inter-
national community, GCF donated to the Rebuild
Dubrovnik Fund. Donations were used to make
repairs to the war-damaged medieval walled city in
Croatia, restoring schools, palaces and church roofs
to help save building interiors.
www.grandcirclefoundation.org
6
THE LEADER IN SOLO TRAVEL
in the Adriatic—and Around the World
ON THIS ADVENTURE …
FREE Single Supplements: We don’t The leader in solo-friendly
charge a single supplement on this travel for Americans—by
adventure and optional trip extensions—
the numbers
a savings of $4000-$4150 per person
compared to other travel companies.
But single spaces fill quickly, so early More than 50,000 solo travelers
reservations are advised. joined us in the past two years—on
their own or with a friend or relative
One of our most popular trips for solo
travelers. More than 410 solo travelers
joined us on this adventure in the past two 15,000 single spaces with a
years—either independently or sharing FREE or low-cost Single Supplement
a room with a mother, daughter, sister, in 2021—a 76% increase from 2019
or friend.
High ratings: More than 85% of these solo More than 90% of solo women
travelers rated their adventure excellent. travelers rated their adventure
excellent
On average, half of your group will also
be traveling independently, so it’s easy
to forge special bonds as you experience 51 exclusive women’s departures
unforgettable moments together. featured on 25 of our most popular
adventures—10 of which are single-
You’ll be in good hands, thanks to your only departures
dedicated local Trip Experience Leader (a
resident of the Adriatic), and the expertise
of our regional office team in Croatia.
Increased Single Space: In 2021, we have
87% more single spaces than in 2019,
with up to 8 single spaces per departure.
See available FREE single space at
www.oattravel.com/das2021.
Solo doesn't mean "alone." Three out of eight O.A.T. travelers
join our small groups as solos, so you will be in good company.
7
Travel at the lowest prices and per diems in the industry—guaranteed
Hidden Gems of the Dalmatian
Coast & Greece Small Ship Adventure
CroatiăÑÖėũāð̇ÁÖũÖơùĢł̇ķĢŶƑĢóādÖĴāŭ̇ťķĢŶ̇NƑÖũ̇bŋũóŽķÖ̇'ŽðũŋƑłĢĴ̇FũŋĿÖóÖ̳Ά̳MontenegrŏbŋŶŋũ̳Ά̳
Albaniă ŽŶũĢłŶ̇ÖũÖłùÖ̳Ά̳Greece: Corfu, Delphi, Corinth Canal Crossing, Athens
Countries: 4Ά!ĢŶĢāŭ̆13Ά11 Nights Aboard Our Privately Owned 50-Passenger M/V Athena
Small Groups: 20-25 travelers—guaranteed! It’s Included
(average of 22)
• International airfare, airport transfers, • 22 guided tours (with personal
16 days from $ 6595 government taxes, fees, and airline fuel
surcharges, unless you choose to make
headsets) and cultural experiences
• Services of our local Trip Experience
Includes international airfare your own air arrangements
Leader with your group of 20-25
Travel from only $413 a day • Accommodations for 3 nights in Zagreb (average of 22) throughout
and 11 nights aboard our privately your adventure
15 days from $ 5695 owned small ship with wireless
Internet access
• Gratuities for local guides and
motorcoach drivers
Without international airfare
• 38 meals: 14 breakfasts, 12 lunches, • All port charges
12 dinners—including 1 Home-Hosted
FREE Single Supplement available
Dinner—plus all onboard house beer, • Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage
wine, and soft drinks per person, including tips
Maximize Your • 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward
your next trip
Discoveries & Value
To get a richer view of the Included Features on this adventure,
Optional extensions:
watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.oattravel.com/das2021
Alpine Wonders of Slovenia:
Lake Bled & Ljubliana
3 nights pre-trip from $945
Travel from only $315 per night
Ancient Glories: Olympia, Nafplion
& Athens
5 nights post-trip from $1295
Travel from only $259 per night
Korcula, Croatia
Hidden Gems of the Dalmatian Coast & Greece
8
Hidden Gems of the Dalmatian Coast & Greece
YOUR DETAILED ITINERARY
BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE WITH AN OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
3 nights in Alpine Wonders of Slovenia: Lake Bled & Ljubljana
Day 1 Depart U.S. Day 4 Bled • Optional Postojna Cave &
Predjama Castle tour
Day 2 Ljubljana, Slovenia • Arrive Bled
Day 5 Bled • Explore Ljubljana • Zagreb,
Day 3 Explore Bled
Croatia • Join main trip
Day 1 Depart U.S. pool and laundry facilities. Typically, each
air-conditioned room features a TV, telephone,
Fly from the U.S. to Zagreb, Croatia. minibar, and a private bathroom.
Lunch: On your own—you’ll find numerous
Day 2 Arrive Zagreb, Croatia
restaurants and cafés within walking distance.
• Destination: Zagreb
You may choose to seek out a restaurant that
• Accommodations: Hotel Dubrovnik serves regional classics like Punjene paprika
or similar (stuffed peppers).
Activity Note: Depending on your arrival
Afternoon: After you settle into your room, you
time and hotel check-in policy, you may not
might take a stroll to the nearby central square,
be able to check into your room immediately
markets, boutiques, and cafés.
upon arrival. Your Trip Experience Leader will
advise you of your check-in status and activity Dinner: On your own this evening. Your Trip
schedule for the day when you arrive. Experience Leader would be happy to provide
suggestions for a taste of home. Perhaps you’ll
Morning: Arrive in Zagreb late morning or
look to find a restaurant that serves typical
early afternoon, depending on your point
Croatian dishes, such as Kotlovina—a fried meat
of departure. An O.A.T. representative will
and vegetables dish that is popular in Zagreb.
meet you at the airport and assist with your
half-hour transfer to your hotel, where Evening: The rest of the evening is free. This
you’ll join travelers arriving from the Alpine might be a good time to adjust to the time
Wonders of Slovenia: Lake Bled & Ljubliana difference by relaxing in the hotel’s public areas
pre-trip extension. Depending on where you or in your comfortable room.
stay, amenities may include a swimming
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
9
Freedom To Explore: During your three days hospital, the artifacts in this museum paint
in Zagreb, you have the freedom to explore a sobering picture of war’s affects on every-
this historic city on your own during your free day people.
time. Below are a few recommended options for
• How to get there: Around a 15-minute
independent explorations: walk from hotel, about a $10 USD taxi ride.
• See the works of one of Croatia’s greatest • Hours: 10am-7pm, Tuesday-Saturday;
artists at the Ivan Mestrovic Atelier: Witness 10am-2pm, Sunday.
the sculptures of Mestrovic, exhibited in • Cost: Free.
the intimacy of his former apartment, and • Delve into Croatia’s food and wine history
discover the legacy he built in Croatia and when you tour the Puntijar Gastronomy
beyond. As you walk through the house Collection: This private collection of cook-
and in the garden, you’ll find Mestrovic’s books and menus, curated by the Puntijar
sculptures at nearly every turn. Mestrovic is family, is one of the largest in Europe. You’ll
perhaps best known for the exquisite detail find over 2,000 gastronomical relics here,
he uses in shaping his figures—as you view including the first Croatian-language cook-
the sculpture of his wife in the children’s book published in the early 1800s. Start off
play room, for example, you’ll see how daily your visit with a sparkling wine tasting before
life unfolding around him inspired his best making your way through the museum with
work. And because the house is located off the a local guide. Plus, visit the adjoining wine
beaten path, you’ll be able to walk through at cellar dating back to 1925.
your own pace in the peaceful quiet.
• How to get there: Around a 15-minute taxi
• How to get there: Around a 10-minute taxi ride from the hotel, about $10 USD one
ride from hotel, about $10 USD one way. way.
• Hours: 10am-6pm, Tuesday-Saturday; • Hours: The collection is viewable by
10am-2pm, Sunday. reservation only.
• Cost: About $5 USD per person. • Cost: Around $13 USD per person.
• Step back into the city’s past at the Zagreb
Shelling Memorial Center: It’s easy enough Day 3 Explore Zagreb
to learn the story of the Croatian fight for • Destination: Zagreb
independence at face value. But what about • Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
civilians caught in the crossfires of conflict? • Accommodations: Hotel Dubrovnik
Learn about the Homeland War of the 1990s or similar
and how the attacks impacted Zagreb through
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
newspaper clippings, films, rare photos,
beginning at 7am, with Croatian and American
and much more. What led to the Homeland
options available.
War, and, ultimately, to the rocket attack on
Zagreb by Serbian forcess? What was life like Morning: Around 8:30am, you’ll gather for
for civilians after the attack? From a single a Welcome Briefing in the hotel. During this
ballet shoe representing the bombing of briefing, you will introduce yourself and review
Zagreb’s National Theater, to a stuffed bear the itinerary in more detail (including any
that was found in the rubble of the children’s changes that may need to occur). Your Trip
Experience Leader will also discuss logistics,
safety and emergency procedures, and answer
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
10questions you may have. Afterward around Afternoon: The afternoon is free for you
9am, your Trip Experience Leader will guide to make your own discoveries. The Mimara
you on a short orientation walk around the Museum is a short 5-minute walk from your
vicinity of your hotel where they’ll point out hotel; you might seize the opportunity to view
restaurants they recommend you dine at during its artistic masterpieces and archaeological
meals on your own and sites that you can visit treasures. At around 4:30pm, gather in the
during your free time. hotel with your fellow travelers and set off for
Zagreb’s school of art and design. Here, you’ll
Then, at around 9:30am, you and your fellow
get a local perspective on a controversial topic:
travelers step out on a 2.5-hour city tour of
the “brain drain” phenomenon. A professor
Zagreb. Begin with a stroll through the Lower
from this school will explain why young
Town, whose well-designed street grid was
people started leaving Croatia in droves upon
laid out in the 19th century. Here, you’ll be
the country’s decision to join the European
introduced to many of the city’s civic and
Union. Learn about the educational and job
historic monuments, including the fortified
opportunities in other countries that enticed
Lotrščak Tower and the sprawling Ban
locals to leave their home country, as well
Jelačić Square.
as how this change personally impacted the
Then, take the funicular to the older Upper professor you’ll meet today.
Town, where you’ll pay a visit to the Croatian
Dinner: At around 7pm, you and your fellow
Museum of Naive Art, dedicated to the
travelers proceed to a local restaurant,
untrained European artists of the 20th century.
where you’ll dine on local cuisine as you get
Many of the colorful artworks are done with
acquainted with a Welcome Drink and Dinner.
a childlike simplicity, and the bulk of the
intriguing collection is rooted in Croatia. Evening: On your own to explore at your
Next, discover Zagreb’s medieval landmarks, own pace. Tkalciceva Street is a good place to
such as St. Mark’s Church and the neo-Gothic enjoy the city’s nightlife. Or, if you prefer the
Cathedral of the Assumption, which you will Lower Town, you might check out the bars and
have the opportunity to admire from the nightclubs set between Trg Petra Preradovića
inside as well. and Bogovićeva.
At around 11:30am, you’ll visit Dolac, Zagreb’s
most vibrant open-air market. Here, you’ll
Day 4 Zagreb • Explore Varazdin •
find vendor stalls of colorful produce and Farm visit
a variety of local ingredients. Peruse the • Destination: Varazdin
lively stalls as you stroll beneath a canopy of • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
bright red umbrellas. Your tour ends here at • Accommodations: Hotel Dubrovnik
around 12:15pm. or similar
Lunch: On your own. Perhaps you’ll sample Activity Note: Today’s itinerary includes a
some fresh, local produce you picked up at walking tour of about two hours. Those who are
Dolac. Or you may seek out a popular local dish unable to participate are welcome to remain in
like strukli, which is cottage cheese- and sour Zagreb and explore independently.
cream-stuffed pastry.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
11Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel Afternoon: At about 3pm, you’ll board a coach
beginning at 7am, with Croatian and American for the hour-long return trip to Zagreb. The
options available. rest of the afternoon is free. You might get a
bird’s-eye view of the city at the Zagreb 360°
Morning: Today, you’ll venture into the
observation deck on Ban Jelacic Square.
Croatian countryside to Varazdin, a beautifully
preserved Baroque city that’s often compared Dinner: On your own—there’s always
to Vienna. For centuries, this was the home someplace new to try within walking distance
of several aristocratic families, who built of the hotel, with choices ranging from cozy to
magnificent palaces and churches that continue elegant and from burgers to French, Eastern
to grace the city today. You’ll set out on a bus at European, African, and Japanese.
around 9am, arriving at around 10am. You will
Evening: You may wish to retire after dinner
then take a short, 15-minute walk to the city’s
tonight. Or enjoy a nightcap at the hotel or at a
centerpiece: its castle. Surrounded by a moat
nearby bar.
and entered via drawbridge, it is now a museum
featuring antique furniture from different
eras. Begun in the twelfth century, the castle Day 5 Zagreb • Explore Plitvice Lakes •
was still used as a seat of local government Split • Embark ship
until 1925, and is set in a park with striking • Destination: Plitvice Lakes
landscaping. Enjoy an hour-long tour with a • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
museum curator in this historical setting.
• Accommodations: M/V Athena
At around 11:15am, you’ll embark on a Activity Note: This morning’s activities include
45-minute walking tour of Varazdin with two motorcoach transfers: the first of about
a local guide. You’ll then have another 45 2.5 hours to the Plitvice Lakes region, and the
minutes or so on your own to roam the streets second of about three hours to Split. There will
and admire the Baroque architecture of this be stops as needed en route. Your three-hour
“Little Vienna.” Then at around 12:45pm, your walking tour of the Plitvice Lakes region
small group drives for about 15 minutes to a includes uneven ground and several sets of
local farmhouse. Your two-hour visit gives you stairs (up to 300 stairs, uphill and downhill).
a unique perspective on rural life in Croatia. Also, please note that agility will be required to
You’ll meet with the owner of the farm who board the M/V Athena. When embarking your
will share insight into the inner workings of small ship, keep in mind that the gangplank
the property before you help the farm’s chef may be steep, and elevators are not available
prepare traditional klipici, a doughy baguette. onboard. This Small Ship Adventure includes
Then, you’ll continue to savor the flavors of long stretches of sailing, where rough sea
the farm when your hosts lead you to their conditions are possible.
wine cellar for a tasting of the varieties that are
cultivated here. Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
beginning at 6:30am, with Croatian and
Lunch: At the farm around 1pm. Savor a American options available.
farm-fresh lunch with ingredients that were
cultivated on the property. Morning: Departing at around 8am, you
will travel overland to the Plitvice Lakes
National Park, arriving around 10am. This
114-square-mile national park has at its heart
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
1216 vibrant turquoise lakes linked by a multitude appetizer, soup, entrée, and dessert—including
of crashing waterfalls and dramatic cascades. regional options—and complimentary
The magnificent natural wonder has been house beer, house wine, and soft drinks.
recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Half-portions are available upon request.)
since 1979. Enjoy a three-hour exploration of
Evening: The rest of the evening is free. Your
this beautiful region’s lakes, during which you
ship remains moored at Split overnight. You
can choose to follow less or more strenuous
might take advantage of the opportunity
paths depending on your preference. Around
to stroll along the lovely and well-lit Riva
1pm, we cap off our discoveries and drive for 30
seaside promenade, just a ten-minute walk
minutes to a local restaurant.
from the ship.
Lunch: Around 1:30pm at a local restaurant,
Freedom To Explore: During your two days
featuring traditional cuisine.
in Split, you have the freedom to explore this
Afternoon: At around 2:30pm, you’ll set off on coastal town on your own during your free
a transfer of about three hours to Split, which time. Below are a few recommended options for
is on the Adriatic seacoast in the Croatian independent explorations:
province of Dalmatia. When you arrive in
• Delve deep into the culture of Split on a
Split, you’ll embark your small ship. For
Jewish Tour: Discover some of the most
the next eleven nights, our privately owned
important sites of Split’s Jewish history and
50-passenger vessel will be your home. The
culture on an approximate 2-hour tour. As
ship is staffed by a friendly, English-speaking
you walk through some of Split’s important
crew who will be eager to welcome you aboard
Jewish sites, you’ll learn from a local guide
and show you to your room. Each of the ship’s
about the history of the Jewish ghetto,
outside-facing cabins features a porthole or
Rodrigos Street, the city synagogue, and
balcony, flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, and
much more. Learn about how this small but
its own private bath.
influential community in Split came to be,
Around 6:45pm, your Captain will conduct a and discover the legacy of Jewish heritage
safety briefing. At the conclusion, you’ll have throughout Croatia.
time to get acquainted with the ship’s inviting
• How to get there: Around an 11-minute
common areas. The lounge is equipped with taxi ride from Split harbor, about $10 USD
couches and chairs and a coffee-maker, and the one way.
adjacent bar serves complimentary house beer,
• Hours: Schedule upon request.
house wine, and soft drinks throughout the day.
• Cost: $85 USD per person for 2-hour tour;
A topside Sun Deck features ample wooden deck price can be negotiated for groups.
chairs for admiring the scenery. Complimentary
• Taste your way around Split at a Dalmatian
wireless Internet is available in all cabins and
Food and Wine Tasting: With legendary
common areas—the front desk staff will be
Diocletian’s Palace as your backdrop, follow
happy to provide you with an access code.
a local guide through the city center. Along
Dinner: At around 7:30pm in the ship’s dining the way, stop at local stands and shops to
room. As with all the dinners during your sample some of Croatia’s finest, from fresh
cruise, the dress code is relaxed and smart bread, to golden olive oil, to aromatic wines
casual, and you are free to sit at whichever and beyond. You’ll learn about how Croatia’s
table you please. You’ll be offered a choice of
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
13wines and olive oils are produced, and cap Morning: At around 7:45am, your Captain
off your discoveries with a traditional lunch will introduce you to your ship’s crew. Then,
and dessert. at around 8am, embark on a roughly 2.5-hour
walking tour of Split’s Old Town with a local
• How to get there: Around a 10-minute
walk from Split harbor, about an $8 USD guide. Here, you’ll discover the Imperial Palace
taxi ride one way. of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. This UNESCO
World Heritage Site is the greatest Roman
• Hours: Every morning starting at 9am.
ruin in Southeastern Europe. As modern Split
• Cost: About $95 USD per person.
grew, it built around the site—incorporating
• Visit the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery for an their ancient heritage with the new. Built like
impressive array of famous works: See
a fortress with walls 590 feet by 705 feet, the
renowned artist Ivan Mestrovic’s drawings,
palace was occupied by the Emperor Diocletian
sculptures, furniture, and architecture in an
from AD 300-313.
impressive building based on the original
blueprints designed by Mestrovic himself. The medieval town of Split took shape within
The design included living and working areas, the palace walls; Diocletian’s Temple of Jupiter
as well as exhibition spaces. The collection was converted into a Christian baptistery
housed here showcases a variety of his work and his mausoleum became a cathedral. The
from the 1920s. The building features large entire old section of Split, with the palace as its
windows that let in natural light and offer centerpiece, is a virtual open-air museum with
a view of the Adriatic that the artist himself the city’s contemporary life bustling through
may have enjoyed gazing upon a century ago. it. At the end of your tour, you’ll have about
1.5 hours to enter this timeless spirit as you
• How to get there: Around a 15-minute
walk from Split harbor, about a $10 USD explore the shops and alleyways on your own.
taxi ride one way. Lunch: Lunch will be served buffet style
• Hours: 9am-4pm, Tuesday-Saturday; onboard at around 11:30am. Enjoy a choice of
10am-3pm, Sunday. regional and international options that include
• Cost: About $6.50 USD per person. soups, entrées, and desserts, as well as a salad
bar with condiments. Complimentary house
Day 6 Explore Split beer, house wine, and soft drinks are always
• Destination: Split available.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Afternoon: Explore more of Split at your
• Accommodations: M/V Athena
own pace. You might climb the bell tower for
Breakfast: All breakfasts onboard are served sweeping views of the city and the Adriatic
buffet-style in the ship’s dining room. You beyond. Browse the stone carvings, jewelry,
may choose from an assortment of familiar armor, and other exhibits of the Museum of
options—including hot and cold cereals, eggs, Croatian Archaeological Monuments, or admire
sausage, bacon, fresh fruit, and toast. Breakfast the sculptures and other artwork by a famous
service is from 7am-8am today, and you are Croatian native son at the Ivan Mestrovic
welcome to dine at your convenience. Early Gallery. Or join the locals on a stroll through
risers can enjoy coffee and pastries beginning at Strossmayer’s Garden, a public park whose
6:30am in the lounge. centerpiece is a beautiful fountain.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
14At around 5:45pm, join your small group in the time. Then, enjoy time to explore the town
lounge for the first in a series of nightly Port on your own. One popular activity is climbing
Talks. These informative conversations, led by the hillside to the city’s ancient fortress.
your Trip Experience Leader, will give you an Experience the Venetian flavor that reflects
overview of the following day’s itinerary and Hvar’s long history of rule by that city-state as
prepare you for the destination ahead. you stroll its picturesque streets. Or watch the
world go by from a sidewalk café.
Dinner: At around 6pm, you and your fellow
travelers will be invited to the dining room Next, at about 10:30am, drive for about
for your Captain’s Welcome Dinner. While the 30 minutes to the quaint seaside village of
dress code remains relaxed and smart casual, Vrboska, which lies in a cove surrounded by
some travelers opt to wear a day dress or slacks pinewood forests and lovely beaches. Here,
to this event. you’ll visit a winery and meet with the owner
who will explain the history of her family
Evening: Perhaps you’ll relax in the lounge or
business and what her typical routine entails
gaze at the night sky from the Sun Deck.
throughout the year. After, enjoy a tasting of
some of the varieties that are cultivated here.
Day 7 Explore Hvar • Vineyard visit •
Your roughly four-hour tour ends with a ride
Croatia Today conversation • Korcula
through the island, known for its aromatic
• Destination: Hvar
patches of lavender, rosemary, and heather at
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner certain times of the year.
• Accommodations: M/V Athena
Lunch: Return to the ship for lunch onboard at
Breakfast: Your ship approaches Hvar, a small
around 1pm. Enjoy the view as your ship lifts
port that larger ships are unable to reach. Take
anchor and sets its compass toward Korcula,
in the view as you enjoy a buffet breakfast,
the largest island in the archipelago and home
available onboard from 7am-8am. Early risers
to a medieval town.
can enjoy coffee and pastries beginning at 6am
in the lounge. Afternoon: Relax onboard this afternoon,
perhaps catching up on your travel journal or
Morning: At around 8:15am, you’ll go ashore to
emailing stories of your discoveries to family
stroll around the island of Hvar, known as one
and friends. Or you might get a more sweeping
of Europe’s most beautiful islands. Occupied
view of the passing scenery from the Sun Deck.
since at least 3500 BC, beautiful Hvar has
been ruled variously by the Greeks, Romans, At around 4pm, regroup for an informative
Ottomans, Austrians, and French, without conversation with your Trip Experience Leader
ever losing its character as a place of fresh about daily life and politics in contemporary
fish, wild herbs, and verdant vineyards. With Croatia. After this hour-long talk, you will have
warm summers, mild winters, and more than a little time to relax before a 6:45pm Port Talk.
2,715 hours of sunlight in an average year, it is
Dinner: Dinner is served onboard at
arguably the sunniest spot in Europe.
around 7pm.
On arrival in Hvar town, enjoy a brief
Evening: Perhaps you’ll relax in the lounge or
orientation walk. Your Trip Experience
gaze at the night sky from the Sun Deck.
Leader will point out ATMs, restaurants they
recommend, and sites you can visit during free
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
15Day 8 Explore Korcula • Island Life the 14th-century All Saints’ Church. Or view
conversation • Dubrovnik the exhibits at the Memorial Collection of
Maksimilijan Vanka on the waterfront nearby.
• Destination: Dubrovnik
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner At around 10am, a resident of the island
• Accommodations: M/V Athena comes aboard the ship to describe what life is
like in Korcula. Gain a firsthand perspective
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast is available onboard
of everyday life here during this hour-long
from 7am-8am. Early risers can enjoy coffee
conversation. Or continue your independent
and pastries beginning at 6am in the lounge.
discoveries ashore.
Morning: Around 8am, you’ll step off your ship
Lunch: Revel in sunlight and seabreezes over
and into the heart of historic Korcula which,
lunch on the Sun Deck, beginning around
among other things, has been the center of
11:45am (weather permitting). Or remain in
proud music and dance traditions such as the
Korcula and find a café for lunch on your own.
warrior-like Moreska sword dance.
Afternoon: Following lunch around 1pm, you
You’ll visit the spot believed by many historians
will have the remainder of the afternoon to
to have been Marco Polo’s birthplace (only
relax. Your ship casts off for Dubrovnik around
one stone wall of the house remains). You
3:30pm. You might head up to the Sun Deck
will also get acquainted with Korcula town’s
to enjoy the open air and scrolling sea views,
history, which included centuries of rule by
take a nap in your cabin, or head to the lounge
Venice, with a visit to its local museum, set in a
for conversation with new friends you’ve
16th-century palace.
made on your cruise. Today’s Port Talk occurs
The next highlight of your tour is St. Mark’s around 6:15pm.
Cathedral on the main square. Here, a local
Dinner: Dinner is served onboard around
guide will share the historical importance of
6:30pm tonight.
the Roman Catholic Church in Korcula. Admire
the church’s detailed Romanesque portal by Evening: Your ship arrives in Dubrovnik around
Bonino of Milano depicting Adam and Eve on 8pm. Behold a sea of red roofs, illuminated by
either side and St. Mark perched at the top. the city lights, reflecting in the shimmering
Inside the cathedral, you’ll see a 16th-century waters that surround Dubrovnik. A courtesy
painting by the master Tintoretto above the bus will be available around 8:45pm to take you
main altar. Even more treasures await as you into the city, if you wish. Your Trip Experience
visit the Bishop’s Treasury—a sketch by Da Leader can offer suggestions for enjoying the
Vinci, drawings by Raphael, and paintings by nightlife here.
Italian masters like Carpaccio are standouts.
Freedom To Explore: During your two days in
Your explorations also includes the treasury of
Dubrovnik, you have the freedom to explore
the 14th-century Abbey Palace.
the “Pearl of the Adriatic” on your own during
Cap off your discoveries around 10:45am. your free time. Below are a few recommended
You may then return to the ship or remain in options for independent explorations:
Korcula and explore on your own. You might
admire the baroque palaces that line the town
• Discover Dubrovnik’s culture—past and
present—at Desa Dubrovnik: Observe the
square. Visit the Icon Museum, located near
community’s progress in improving the local
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
16economic, social, and cultural environment. food from local specialists as you treat your
This passionate group works to strengthen palate to fine wine. During your tour, you’ll
the place they call home by actively respond- experience a variety of Croatian flavors as
ing to citizens needs, elevating women and you visit some of the oldest favorite spots in
minority groups, and raising awareness of Dubrovnik, known for their cozy and hospi-
lifelong education and learning. During your table atmospheres. Tour groups are small,
visit, participate in a one-hour workshop on ensuring an intimate experience and allowing
preparing holiday sweets, weaving, embroi- you to ask any questions you may have.
dery making, and other traditional skills that
• How to get there: About a $10 USD taxi ride
preserve the local culture. from hotel.
• How to get there: About a $10 taxi ride, one • Hours: Schedule upon request.
way from Dubrovnik harbor. • Cost: About $92 USD per person.
• Hours: Open year-round; 9am-4pm; call
to schedule tours on specific days and Day 9 Explore Dubrovnik • Controversial
times. Topic: Aida Cvjetkovic on defying gender
• Cost: About $12 USD entrance fee for roles during the siege of Dubrovnik •
groups of 10 or more, about $17 USD for Gromaca village • Home-Hosted Dinner
groups of less than 10, and about $23 USD
• Destination: Dubrovnik
for workshops.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Experience Dubrovnik’s traditional jewelry • Accommodations: M/V Athena
designs at Clara Stone Jewelers: Witness
how experts create beautiful jewelry out Exclusive O.A.T. Activities: During today’s
of coral and natural materials. This inde- discoveries we will learn about a Controversial
pendent brand is dedicated to innovative Topic when we meet Aida Cvjetkovic, a
design using resources from the Adriatic, local woman who defied gender norms and
such as sought-after red coral. During your organized 2,000 fellow women to risk their
visit, perhaps you’ll engage the artisans in lives and stay behind to help render aid to
a conversation about their inspiration for soldiers and civilians during the 7-month siege
these unique pieces and learn more about of Dubrovnik that began in 1991. Later, we’ll
the history and evolution of their business. immerse ourselves further in Croatian culture
To secure your spot at a presentation, talk to when we join a local family in the village of
your Trip Experience Leader about making a Gromaca for a Home-Hosted Dinner—read
reservation. more about these experiences below.
• How to get there: About a $12 USD taxi Breakfast: Buffet breakfast is available onboard
ride, one way from Dubrovnik harbor. from 7am-8am. Early risers can enjoy coffee
• Hours: Open year-round; 9:30am-8pm and pastries beginning at 6am.
(summer season); 9:30am-7pm (winter
Morning: With its old section, the Stari Grad,
season); call to schedule tours on specific
surrounded entirely by white stone walls,
days and times.
Dubrovnik gleams like the proverbial City on a
• Cost: Free.
Hill. Regarded today as one of the world’s most
• Try the best local restaurants on the exquisite walled cities, Dubrovnik’s character
Dubrovnik Gastronomy Wine and Food
reflects its storied past as an independent
Tour: Let an expert guide take you to sample
city-state that rivaled Venice. Also known by
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
17its Latin name, Ragusa, this was a fortress two teenage sons, she was torn between her
city that served as the base for a fleet of ships love of her homeland, and her instinct to flee
that carried trade between much of Europe with her children and bring her family to safety.
and the Middle East. The city-state’s period of In the end, it was her boys who appealed to
autonomy extended from 1358 to 1808. In the her sense of duty and convinced her to stay in
early 1990s, some of Dubrovnik’s historic sites this moment of truth. With the city falling to
sustained damage during the Balkan conflicts, ruin around them, they took advantage of their
but the city has been peaceful for more than good health to render whatever aid they could
20 years and largely restored under UNESCO and help their fellow citizens make it through
supervision. This restoration work has been the siege.
supported with a donation from Grand Circle
We’ll hear how Aida led the charge and within
Foundation.
two days organized around 2,000 other
Departing around 8am, you’ll discover the women to join her and sign a pledge to stay
highlights of this historic gem on a walking and help. This act, which earned the ire of the
tour, which will last a little over 1.5 hours. city’s male-dominated old guard, formed a
Dubrovnik Women’s Forum which would play
At around 10am, we will walk to Art Radionica
a pivotal role in helping the city survive the
Lazareti, a local artisan center. Here, we’ll
war. On November 1, the Libertas Convoy—a
meet a local woman, Aida Cvjetkovic, for a
grassroots humanitarian fleet of 29 civilian
conversation about a Controversial Topic: the
vessels—braved the Yugoslav blockade to
role of women during the siege of Dubrovnik,
deliver supplies and prominent politicians
and how courageous women like her defied
and celebrities to draw international attention
gendered expectations to help their city
to Dubrovnik’s plight. Although Aida had
survive the war.
the opportunity to join the refugees that the
When the Yugoslav People’s Army began its fleet would carry back with it, she held to
bombardment of Dubrovnik on October 1, her principles and stayed behind to continue
1991, local and foreign leaders reacted with an her work.
old-fashioned instinct: Get the women and
Although she never carried a weapon, she
children out first. Women like Aida, however,
was never far from the frontlines as she
refused to be treated as helpless victims,
carried supplies to soldiers and civilians,
knowing they had as much to offer their
and worked with local and international
beloved homeland as their male compatriots.
authorities—including Bernard Kouchner,
Together, they made the hard choice to defy
the co-founder of Doctors Without Borders,
the chorus of voices pressuring them to leave
and then European Union envoy to the
and stayed behind, putting their lives at risk to
city—to help deliver aid and draw attention
render aid and support, and starting a rebellion
to the beleaguered city. She and other Forum
against Croatian gender norms whose effects
members even negotiated with Yugoslav
can still be felt today.
politicians and military leaders to fight for the
During our hour-long conversation with Aida, release and fair treatment of Croatian prisoners
we’ll hear about why she decided to stay, and of war. While her fierce advocacy made her few
listen to her harrowing perspective of what she friends, she never shied away from doing what
endured as a consequence of this decision. The was right.
choice wasn’t made lightly—as the mother of
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
18Aida’s work to assist Dubrovnik’s defenders Lunch: Lunch is served onboard, beginning
painted a target on her back, and she spent the around 1pm, or you may stay in Dubrovnik
war in constant danger. In mid-November, her and enjoy one of the city’s many cafés at your
home was obliterated by Yugoslav artillery, own expense.
and she experienced many more close calls
Afternoon: Relax onboard this afternoon, or
throughout the siege—including an incident
continue your exploration of Dubrovnik. You
in which the force of an exploding mortar shell
might take in a bird’s-eye view of the city on
knocked her to the ground, shattering a glass
a cable car ride. Or visit some of Dubrovnik’s
bottle of water she was carrying back to her
hidden museums, such as the state archives at
family. Later, she would learn that these near
Sponza Palace, a 16th-century former customs
misses were no coincidence—intelligence
house and mint.
gathered from retreating Yugoslav forces
revealed her name on a list of targets to be Dinner: Beginning around 5:45pm, drive by
silenced. motorcoach to Gromaca, a village of around 150
people near Dubrovnik where we’ll split into
When the siege was lifted on May 31, 1992, 194
smaller groups of no more than 6, and join a
soldiers and 88 civilians lay dead, and around
local family for a Home-Hosted Dinner.
15,000 people were made refugees. The attack
on Dubrovnik was an act of aggression that We’ll begin our experience at around 6:30pm
shocked the world—but, if not for the actions when we arrive in Gromaca and take a
of Aida and the brave women she helped to 15-minute stroll through the village with our
inspire, the toll would have been much worse. hosts to meet the residents and catch a glimpse
The work they started continues today in the of daily life here. Then, at around 6:45pm, we’ll
form of Deša, an organization that aids women sit down at the table and share a meal with our
and families affected by war around the world. host family.
Aida will spend around 20 minutes sharing her By separating into smaller groups, we’ll
story, and we’ll then have the remainder of have an exclusive opportunity to enter the
the hour to ask questions and take advantage homes of Gromaca’s residents and connect
of her firsthand perspective of this deadly intimately with them to learn about what life
period of Dubrovnik history, and how its impact is like here. Our hosts hail from a variety of
ripples into the modern day. You may want to working- or middle-class backgrounds, and
inquire into how Aida has seen the treatment of multiple generations of the family might be
women in Croatia change since she organized present during our meal, offering a broad view
the pledge 30 years ago; did women prove of village life in Croatia. Long-term residents
their worth during the siege of the city, or may also be able to offer their perspective of
do old-fashioned attitudes about the role of what life here was like during wartime in the
women still abound? 1990s—Gromaca was pillaged by the Yugoslav
People’s Army during that conflict.
The rest of the morning is free. Perhaps you’ll
stroll the Stradun, the pedestrian-only main We’ll also enjoy a taste of authentic
street through the heart of the Old Town, home-cooked Croatian cuisine as we share a
and admire the ornate Onofrio’s Fountain. At typical meal that our host family would enjoy
around 12pm, you can catch a shuttle back to in their day-to-day lives. We might enjoy
the ship. vegetable soup, prepared with locally grown
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
19garden-fresh crops, followed by a traditional In the Middle Ages, Kotor was a walled city
dish like sporki makaruli (colloquially known and an important artistic and commercial
as “dirty macaroni”), a meat and pasta center, with well-known schools of masonry
dish historically enjoyed by the servants of and iconography. Upon arrival at about
Dubrovnik’s aristocracy, who would prepare 11:45am, we’ll discover the well-preserved
it with the leftovers of feast day meats. For historic center of this ancient Montenegrin
dessert, we might get a taste of rozata, a cold city on a 45-minute walking tour. Admire the
custard crème dessert flavored with rozulin, an architectural splendor that surrounds us as we
aromatic liqueur made from roses. explore the Stari Grad (Old Town), and visit the
Maritime Museum, which highlights the long
At around 8:15pm, we’ll bid our hosts farewell
and proud sailing traditions of Kotor, including
and return by private motorcoach to our ship,
navigational tools and maps dating to 1168.
arriving at around 9pm.
After our tour, we’ll stop for lunch.
Evening: Return to your ship around 9pm. The
Lunch: At a local restaurant in Kotor at
rest of the evening is free to enjoy the ship’s
around 12:30pm.
amenities.
Afternoon: After lunch, we’ll board our
Day 10 Dubrovnik • Explore Kotor, motorcoach for the return drive to Dubrovnik,
arriving at our small ship by about 4pm.
Montenegro
• Destination: Dubrovnik Dinner: Dinner is served onboard at
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner around 7pm.
• Accommodations: M/V Athena
Activity Note: Today’s walking tour includes Evening: Your ship docks in Dubrovnik tonight.
several sets of stairs (up to 50 stairs, uphill and This might be a good time to turn a few pages in
downhill). that book you brought with you, or catch up on
your travel journal.
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast is available onboard
from 7am-8am. Early risers can enjoy coffee
and pastries beginning at 6:30am in the lounge.
Day 11 Dubrovnik • A Day in the Life of a
Konavle village
Morning: At around 8:45am, we’ll depart by
• Destination: Dubrovnik
private motorcoach for a 2.5-hour drive to
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Montenegro, a small Mediterranean country
• Accommodations: M/V Athena
at the foot of the Balkan mountain range. Our
destination is Kotor, a picturesque walled city O.A.T. Exclusive Activity: Today’s discoveries
nestled at the head of Kotor Bay, Europe’s include our NEW A Day in the Life experience.
deepest fjord. Along the way, we’ll also enjoy We’ll split into two groups to enjoy one of two
a brief conversation with our Trip Experience different, but equally rewarding, experiences
Leader that reveals Kotor’s turbulent history in the rural Konavle region of Croatia. Whether
as a strategic port that has been variously you visit with the Butjer family at their winery
ruled over the centuries by Bulgaria, in the village of Drvenik, or meet the Brautovic
Serbia, the Ottoman Empire, the Venetian family at their agricultural estate, you’re sure
Republic, Napoleon’s French Empire, and
Austria-Hungary.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
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