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Art, History and Charm
of Croatia and the Adriatic |
Group size: up to 24 |
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15 Days/14
Nights Escorted Tour, from $6,799 |
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Meet
the renowned artist at gallery in charming Zagreb. |
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Discover the Roman ruins in Pula in company of a Croatian -
American actor. |
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Indulge in Dalmatian specialties prepared by well known chef in
Diocletian town of Split. |
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Travel in complete luxury of a private boat to the island of
Hvar. |
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Taste the finest Croatian wine in the company of its maker. |
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Enjoy the private opera concert in Dubrovnik by the award
winning mezzo-soprano. |
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Book
your tour to Croatia with the leading Croatia Expert Travel Planners
with over 18 years of experience in selling and promoting Croatia on
the American market!
Jauntee
offers
Complimentary 3 Day Vacation, flexible payment
plan and discounted rates on flights to Croatia with every
tour! |
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Start
planning your tour NOW by clicking to these buttons,
or call Jauntee at 888.371.6826! |
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Join us on our
magical 15-day escorted journey through the fascinating
periods of Croatia’s history, centuries old art treasures,
and discover the pearls of Croatia’s diversity. Live the
dream each day as you comfortably relax in your elegant
hotel room with the stunning views of the Adriatic,
anticipating a new and an extraordinary day. Meet the
renowned artist in one of the art galleries in charming
Zagreb. Discover the roman ruins in Pula in a company of a
famous Croatian-American actor. Indulge in the authentic
Dalmatian specialties prepared especially for you by an
award-winning chef in the Diocletian town of Split, and
travel in complete luxury of a private boat to the island of
Hvar. Pamper yourself on this “crčme de la crčme” of deluxe
touring in Croatia as you sip your glass of the finest
Croatian wine in the company of its maker.
And just when you think this could not get any better – we
welcome you to Dubrovnik, the renaissance jewel of the
Adriatic. Enjoy your private opera concert in a beautiful
setting as the Croatian diva, Ms. Tihana Herceg, delivers a
stellar performance with her voice powerful and beautiful,
singing with great intensity, grace and presence. Tihana
Herceg is an award winning mezzo soprano, a native of
Croatia who has performed to acclaim throughout the United
States and Croatia.
As the power of Ms. Herceg’s amazing voice echoes far
outside the tall and wide city walls, and Dubrovnik shines
with a special glow this evening, you can not but wonder if
you have indeed come to the “paradise on earth”. |
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Tour Dates |
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Start |
End
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Rate
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June 12, 2008 |
June 25,
2008 |
$6,799 |
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September
4,
2008 |
September
17,
2008 |
$6,799 |
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Supplements |
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Tour Inclusion |
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15 escorted days |
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Experienced English speaking escort throughout the trip
as per itinerary |
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Comfortable
air-conditioned coach
at group's disposal as per itinerary |
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Sightseeing
tours of Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Split, Solin, Trogir,
Plitvice Lakes, Bled, Pula |
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Mostar, Ljubljana, Hvar, Postojna and Konavle |
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Entrance
fees for National Parks Plitvice Lakes, Postojna, Cilipi |
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Entrance
fees for Dubrovnik and Split museums |
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All
transfers |
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Professional
English-speaking guide |
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All
taxes |
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Meal Inclusion |
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13 breakfasts |
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1
lunch |
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13
dinners |
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Not Included |
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Airfare,
gratuities,
drinks, telephone charges and incidentals |
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Hotels |
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Zagreb,
Hotel Regent Esplanade, deluxe room |
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Bled, Hotel
Toplice, lake view room |
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Opatija,
Hotel Mozart, sea view room |
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Plitvice, Hotel
Jezero, double room |
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Split, Hotel
Le Méridien Lav, sea view room |
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Dubrovnik,
Villa Argentina, sea view room |
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Grand Villa
Argentina is four exclusive villas and one hotel building,
each one with its own distinctive atmosphere and charm,
surrounded by beautiful terraced gardens. Delight your
senses in this peaceful retreat with dazzling views of the
Adriatic Sea and the old town of Dubrovnik which is a
walking distance from the hotel. |
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Itinerary |
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Day 1/2: Depart USA/Zagreb |
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Today begins with the
trip of a lifetime, as you depart America on your transatlantic
fight to the beautiful Croatian capital of Zagreb. Welcome to
Croatia! After a warm greeting by your Tour Director, you will be
shown to your private coach for transfer to the elegant Regent
Esplanade hotel. It is of course one of the most famous and most
gracious buildings in the city, with a premier location in the midst
of Zagreb's vibrant social life. This evening you will join your
professional Tour Director and fellow tour members at our Welcome
Cocktail Reception. And enjoy exquisite dinner in the company of a
delightfully talented guitar player.
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Day 3: Zagreb |
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This morning, Zagreb
will charm you with its abundance of rich cultural heritage that
dates back to the medieval days. We will stroll past baroque-style
mansions and baronial residences, and admire the beautifully crafted
facades. In the company of your local expert, we will visit the
symbol of Zagreb, St. Mark's church in the Upper Town, which houses
the remarkable works of Ivan Mestrovic, its most famous sculptor.
Come to the Lotrscak Tower and inhale this most beautiful view of
the city. The attractions here are plentiful, the culture, quite
mesmerizing. There will be enough time for a delicious fresh baked
pastry and a cup of excellent coffee in one of the side walk cafes
in Gornji Grad. Or dine on some great home-made cheese and wine as
you chat with friendly locals at Dolac, the lively open air market.
Enjoy lunch in one of the many elegant restaurants nestled in the
centre of beautiful Zrinjevac park. After an afternoon rest, savor
the architectural and art treasures of the Croatian National
Theater, followed by the Mimara Museum, which rivals the finest art
galleries in the world. Here you will discover the sculptures,
classic paintings and choice works by Ruben, Rembrandt, Monet and
Renoir. Next, visit the Museum of Arts and Crafts which reveals
incomparable art from the Baroque period through the 20th century.
Cocktails will be served in one of the town's hippest art galleries,
and you will have your chance to meet and hang out with one of
Croatia's well known artists.
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Day 4: Zagreb / Ljubljana / Bled |
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After leisurely breakfast, we
depart for Slovenia 's capital, Ljubljana , a medieval city quietly
nestled below a sprawling hill and alongside Ljubjana Castle. And
yes, by the river Ljubljanica! No worries about your luggage. Leave
it behind in your room, and it will be collected and transported on
to our next destination. There you will find it already delivered to
your room before arrival! That's valet service--Adriatic Luxury
Journeys style! Meanwhile, en route to Ljubljana , we stop for lunch
consisting of traditional Slovenian specialties, at the magical
Castle in Otocec ob Krki. Enjoy a private sightseeing tour of this
jewel that rises from the mists of the Krka River--the only water
castle in Slovenia and for thousands of miles around.
We continue to Ljubljana , home to one of the oldest Philharmonics
in the world; and also to numerous theaters, museums and art
galleries. Stroll through the Old Town district and again experience
your private tour in the company of a local expert. Explore the
baroque town building, the colorful farmer's market, and discover
the cathedral of St. Nicholas. Walk across Dragon Bridge , an Art
Nouveau masterpiece adorned with dragons and symbol of Ljubljana .
Then stroll beside the majestic Ljubljanica River, to the centrally
located Presernov Trg.
After lunch we continue to Lake Bled, one of Europe’s most
fascinating cities. You won't believe the amazing views of this
pristine Alpine resort! But next, we'll take a "pletna" boat ride to
St. Mary's Island. And while there, we will admire the renowned
church that was built into the rock impregnating this small island.
Now get your walking shoes out! For our energetic guide will take
you up ninety-nine steps to reach the lake’s highest point and to
experience other spectacular views. If you still have energy
remaining, do not forget to ring the church's "wishing bell," which
is rumored to bring everyone good luck! Afterwards, we will return
to our beautiful hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Grand Hotel Toplice, Bled, (B, D)
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Day 5: Bled / Postojna / Opatija |
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Sleep in and savor the ambience of our beautiful hotel in Lake Bled
or choose to join us on a walk around the lake! We get a mid-morning
start for our excursion to yet another natural wonder, the
underground world of the Postojna Caves. These caves are filled with
spectacular limestone stalactites and stalagmites which form pillars
and take on fantastic shapes and form. On a guided walking tour
accompanied by the local expert, you can almost imagine yourself in
another world. The culmination of this tour is small train ride that
takes you to the heart of the underground fairyland. In the early
afternoon we continue to Opatija, “The Nice of the Adriatic”. Enjoy
the breathtaking views of the wonderful Opatija Riviera, one of the
European oldest and most elite summer resorts of the
Austro-Hungarian Empire, now attracting many famous names from
imperial families, artists, scientists and politicians. Walk along
the beautiful stretch of elegant villas, lush gardens and parks or
relax in your elegant and luxurious “Mozart” hotel situated in the
very heart of Opatija. Hotel
Mozart, Opatija, (B, D)
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Day 6: Opatija / Porec / Rovinj / Pula
/ Opatija |
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We reserve today for a
full day of exploring the "terra magica"--our Istrian Peninsula. The
crystal clear sea, clean shores and ports, lively fishing boats and
teeming narrow stone streets exude the true charm of the
Mediterranean. Our fist stop is Porec. It is home to the famous
basilica of St. Euphrasius, a 12th century UNESCO World Heritage
site that features artwork, mosaics and stained glass. Next, we
continue to beautiful Rovinj, Istria’s cultural mecca, with its
fantastic setting of centuries-old red-roofed houses clustered
around the hill of a former island. The monumental baroque Church of
St. Euphemia crowns the hill. And far below is the wide harbor
packed with pleasure boats and rimmed with bright awning and
colorful cafe umbrellas. Journey through the serene Tuscan-like
scenery with its rolling hills and vineyards. You will arrive next
at the 3000 year old town of Pula , the heart of the Peninsula ,
which houses the best preserved Roman amphitheater in the World.
There is no more delightful way to savor the Istrian Peninsula then
to lunch at one of the many superb restaurants in the entire region.
They are known for exquisite seafood delicacies, delectable
truffles, the aromatic Muscat of Monjan or the ruby-red Teran that
once upon a time fortified Casanova himself! Here we will have the
pleasure of meeting at least one famous Croatian-American actor who
has no performed several main roles in films that are presented at
the Pula film Festival. After lunch there will be enough quality
time to work off any extra calories you deliciously gained! We will
saunter along old Pula and discover its many mysteries and whispers
from the past. Among these, is the alluring atmosphere of
prehistoric times and roman gladiatorial combats, which nowadays is
a unique stage for festivals and concerts. Our journey through the
old city will include the Roman Amphitheatre and its underground
chambers. And the many city gates and walls, Triumphal arch of
Sergians, the Roman Forum and mosaic, and the Cathedral of the
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
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Day 7: Opatija / Plitvice |
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A very special experience
awaits you in Gorski Kotar and Lika. Lovely green landscapes
of exceptional ecological value reside in a number of nature
parks, which rise a mere dozen feet above the sea. Discover
Plitvice Lakes National Park – the unique oasis of rare
natural beauty. It is one of Europe’s most dazzling nature
reserve parks, and was truly created by nature. The park
consists of 16 connecting lakes and sport unique cascades of
murmuring waterfalls. Plitvice Lakes National Park was
recognized and protected by UNESCO as part of the world’s
natural heritage in 1979. We will take a lively walk along
the lakes and breathe the fresh mountain air while listening
to the captivating sounds of nature. Next, a boat ride
across the largest of the lakes, we will experience an
unique perspective of nature: the lake is rife with crystal
clear emerald water and fringed with bubbly white
waterfalls! Soon after, you will enjoy a traditional dinner
at Licka Kuca consisting of delicious pork and lamb on a
spit. It all promises to be a memorable meal and evening!
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Day 8: Plitvice / Split |
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We will bask in divine
inspiration from the beauty of the Adriatic Coast as we stop
in the 3000-year-old Zadar, en route to Split. A
centuries-long center for the Illyrian tribe of Liburni and
capital of Dalmatia for millennia, Zadar is a city of rich
spiritual and material culture. And this is well shown from
its many reverent walls and numerous sacral monuments.
Accompanied by our professional English-speaking guide, we
visit the Cathedral of St. Stosia (St. Anastasia) dating
from 1285 A.D., where paintings of Carpaccio and Palma Jr.
are exhibited. We will also experience the Roman Forum and
pre-Romanesque church of St. Donat (dating from 9th century
A.D.), the massive city gate and Square of Wells, the Church
of St Simon, and the permanent exhibition “Gold and Silver
of Zadar.” During this leisurely time, we may continue
exploring Zadar’s many historic treasures, but also remember
to shop for all sorts of fine local souvenirs. Lunch will be
served at one of Zadar's quaint restaurants, providing of
course traditional specialties and a glass of famous
Maraschino – the local liqueur made from authentic Maraska
sour cherry. Zadar will indeed forever pervade your memory
as a true spot for divine inspiration! But after lunch, we
will continue to the Roman Emperor’s magnificent city of
Split.
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Day 9: Split |
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Experience the charm of
the southern Mediterranean as we arrive at Split, the
largest city along the Adriatic coast. Its beauty captivated
4th Century Roman Emperor Diocletian, who built his palace
here. So we begin our sightseeing tour of Split with a visit
to this lofty palace. First, we walk the well-preserved
ancient cellars; for here is where one can truly experience
this magnificent palace. We continue with a visit to the
Cathedral, which is considered to be one of the oldest in
the world. The Cathedral was built on the remains of an
ancient shrine. And across the Cathedral is the Temple of
Jupiter, which today is used as a baptistery. After lunch,
we continue on to the charming town of Trogir, which is also
included in the UNESCO list of protected world cultural
heritage. You will quickly see why it is called a museum
city by keeping in mind the many artistic repositories it
hosts. There is the famous portal of Trogir cathedral and
the Renaissance city loggia. And let's not forget the
1000-year old monastery of St. Nicholas. Trogir is indeed a
treasure trove of art, and also a stage for young tenors
from all over the world who come here each year to engage in
singing competition. There will be enough time for strolling
the narrow, charming streets of Trogir and then relaxing and
dining in a local café. Afterwards, we return to your deluxe
accommodations in Split.
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Day 10: Split / Hvar |
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We will catch
another glimpse of paradise as our private boat approaches
the amazing island of Hvar. Having been recently placed on
the list of Croatia's ten most beautiful islands, sunny Hvar
is, without doubt, numbered among the most seductive of
Dalmatian islands. Hvar has the largest island town square
on both sides of the Adriatic. And one of the first communal
theaters in Europe, built in 1612, called the Arsenal. There
is also the famous “Tvrdalj” Palace of Petar Hektorovic, not
to be missed. And we won't! Here the only question to be
answered is whether Hvar captivates you more with its
indelible history and art. Or grabs you with the indelible
beauty of nature that imbues the island and is enhanced with
the pure fragrance of lavender. Our local expert will guide
you along your tour of both the town of Hvar and around the
entire island. And to complete your stunning island
experience, we will subject you to sampling some of Hvar's
delicious island cuisine. It's diverse authentic tastes and
many specialties can be savored at most any of the island's
local restaurants. In late afternoon we board our private
boat and head back to Split.
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Day 11: Split / Mostar / Dubrovnik |
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Today we take you to experience a new city in a new country. En
route to Dubrovnik, we take you to Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
This is a city of poetry and of stone and narrow streets. This is
the city where a traveler from the north feels the first breeze of
Mediterranean air, which is imbued with scents of citrus and sea. It
is unlike the traveler from the south who is destined to reach and
experience his first glimpse of the continent beyond. No matter, the
town is exceptional for its unique dwellings and proud monuments.
They have been harmoniously assembled over many centuries, thanks
mainly to favorable geographical conditions and sound economic
climate. Here, you will visit uncommon city sights, including the
Old Bazaar, the Turkish House, and any of the many old Mosques.
After this guided tour of Mostar, you will have some free time for a
long pleasant stroll. It will be among the many old craft shops,
choice boutiques and antique stores. And then time out for lunch in
any of the many picturesque local restaurants.
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Day 12: Dubrovnik |
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Now it's time to take you on an unforgettable journey to Dubrovnik,
the Renaissance Jewel of the Adriatic. It's often been called a
classic medieval heartstopper. For it is rife with glorious
fountains, palaces and cathedrals. And rich in history and culture,
dating all the way back to the 7th century. The limestone bricks of
the walled Old City shimmer like marble in the moonlight. Fine
detailing and the architecture of its quaint buildings underscore an
artistic heritage that both enhances and defines a landscape of sea,
sky and hills. It is a playground for those who desire the unspoiled
fortune that is the Mediterranean landscape.
Dubrovnik is steeped in sunshine and bathed in mild Mediterranean
breezes, a lush region of coves, forested islands and idyllic
beaches. Visit the beautiful cloister at the Franciscan Monastery.
It is a home to one of the world’s oldest pharmacies, which has been
open since 1931. Delight in the artistic treasures of the Assumption
of the Virgin, and visit the Rector’s Palace, and 14th-century
Dominican Monastery. Indulge in a delectable choice of gourmet
restaurants and intimate cafes, which will delight even the most
discriminating palate. Now let's raise a toast in celebration, and
do so in each of the many cozy Dubrovnik pubs and taverns. Or opt
for nice hot cup of coffee served in any of the town’s charming
squares. A last stroll down the cobblestone streets of Stradun
awaits us. Or we can delight your senses even further along this
peaceful retreat by holding you glued to more dazzling views of the
Adriatic. All seen from you luxury hotel room with a view.
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Day 13:
Dubrovnik /
Montenegro |
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After your leisurely
breakfast or perhaps a lilting walk on the beach, we take a short
drive to Montenegro, Europe's last undiscovered secrets. Montenegro
is always an unforgettable experience, whose exceptional natural
beauty is in combination with a history rich in culture. Enjoy the
drive around Kotor Bay, with its numerous small settlements, and
let's make a stop in the Medieval Kotor to soak in the typical
Mediterranean lifestyle. Then we will proceed up towards the
mountains to visit Cetinje. Lastly, a friendly stroll around in
Budva, the ancient town and lovely tourist resort, is of course in
order!
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Day 14:
Dubrovnik / Peljesac |
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We spend a part of
this marvelous day visiting the Pelješac peninsula and the small
medieval town of Ston. For wine lovers, Peljesac is the famous
kingdom of Dingac, which is the most highly regarded of all Croatian
wines. Our first stop will be at Ston, a small medieval town which
was one of first towns in Europe to be built after a very exacting
architectural plan. The town is especially known for its spectacular
city walls. They are considered to be the second longest in all the
world. Nearby is another small town, Mali Ston, famous for its
oyster and mussel production. Here you will have the opportunity to
taste some local scrumptious seafood. Next, is the town of Orebic,
which is popular for visiting art historians. But the day would not
be complete without a visit to one of the many fine wine cellars in
the region. Then afterwards, we return to Dubrovnik for our
afternoon rest and dinner. And before the highlight of the tour: our
private concert with Tihana Herceg, mezzo-soprano extraordinaire! As
the power of Ms. Herceg’s voice resounds throughout Dubrovnik and
off its historic city walls, the metropolis will shine with a
breathtaking glow this memorable evening. And you cannot but wonder
if you have not indeed found paradise on earth!
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Day 15:
Dubrovnik |
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Our adventure must
sadly end with your final journey to the Dubrovnik airport.
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Book
your tour to Croatia with the leading Croatia Expert Travel Planners
with over 18 years of experience in selling and promoting Croatia on
the American market!
Jauntee
offers
Complimentary 3 Day Vacation, flexible payment
plan and discounted rates on flights to Croatia with every
tour! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Start
planning your tour NOW by clicking to these buttons,
or call Jauntee at 888.371.6826! |
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back to main tours page |
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