Why Sailing Croatia should be on your bucket list for 2023


Why Sailing Croatia should be on your bucket list for 2023


8

One of the most popular summer activities in Croatia is sailing along the Dalmatian coast to explore the many beautiful islands. As one who has travelled quite a lot, I would really suggest that island-hopping aboard a sailing boat, yacht, or catamaran should be at the top of your list of things to do while planning your summer vacation in Europe.



In addition, I’d like to explain the yacht on which I traveled to Croatia.

Onboard the Adriatic King

The beautiful new MV Adriatic King Deluxe Superior small cruise ship allows tourists to explore Croatia’s coastline with a small group of like-minded travelers. It was design for the 2021 season with cutting-edge technology and extensive amenities. This small cruise ship provides an intimate journey to some of the most popular spots along the magnificent Adriatic Coast due to their small size and limited passenger numbers.

This yacht has 20 spacious cabins on the Main and Lower decks for your pleasure. All cabins are air-conditioned, with twin or double beds, private bathrooms, and modern amenities.

The ship’s public sections are many, with lots of space to create your own zone. There is a sun deck with sun beds, a salon restaurant, bar, an outdoor lounge area, a jacuzzi and a swimming platform .

And here’s a list of the greatest sailing destinations in Croatia!

Trogir

This little island is surrounded by medieval walls built during the 13th and 14th centuries. We’re talking about the tiniest of details. It would take you five minutes to walk from one end to the other. It is, nonetheless, full of charm as you explore the historical sites. Two yacht marinas serve boat enthusiasts, while coastal nightclubs and bars cater to the younger generation. It’s also renowned as the ideal location for Instagram enthusiasts. For a dose of history, visit Kamerlengo fortification or the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, both of which offer stunning views over the city.

Mljet

This southern oasis with a population of only a thousand people is seldom recognized. Nonetheless, it remains one of the nicest Croatian islands to visit. It is home to one of Croatia’s most impressive natural reserves, which is best explored by bike. After cycling through deep forests, swimming in saline lakes, and enjoying the sand dunes, proceed to Babino Polje, where Odysseus cave may be found. Yes, even the Greek King rested here after years of wandering and being enticed by the nymph Calypso.The beauty of this place drew him here.

Hvar

The lovely island of Hvar is only an hour’s sail from Split. This is a hotbed for celebrity sightings, as numerous are spending their vacation on their luxury yachts in the port. While roaming about with Beyonce or a big movie star may appear to be the finest way to spend your time here, we have another suggestion. Enjoy kayaking to the Paklini archipelago or renting a car to travel to the calm beaches of Jelsa, which are surprisingly underutilized.

Vis

Did you watch the movie, Mamma Mia? If so, it was filmed on the Croatian island of Vis, which happens to be one stop on this journey. While there, visit Kit, a 17th-century Venetian-built complex of courtyards and lanes. You’ll discover mini-marts and restaurants serving wonderful Italian cuisine and seafood. You’ll also discover some of the purest water you’ve seen so far. Since this island is so small, one of the greatest ways to get around is by scooter. After a long day of riding, halt for a sunset dinner at Fort George.

Natural Bay on Stari Grad

Considering its location on Hvar’s north coast, Stari Grad is a far more peaceful affair. Stari Grad means “old town,” which is appropriate given that it was founded by the Greeks in 384 BC. As a result, it is one of the oldest towns in Europe.  The most notable structure in Stari Grad is Petar Hektorovi Castle. The Renaissance poet erected it throughout the course of his life, carving more than 20 inscriptions in both Latin and Italian into the structure.

 

Split

Split combines the ancient and the modern. Split (Spalato in Italian) is Croatia’s second-biggest city and is usually lively. Cafes and chic boutiques coexist with Roman ruins and museums. It’s not surprising that it was used as a filming site for “Game of Thrones.” Diocletian’s Palace, erected in 305 AD for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, the Bell Tower of St. Dominus Cathedral, and Old Town are among the attractions. Not to mention the beaches!

 Zadar

Zadar is not as well-known as its seaside neighbors Split, the legendary walled city of Dubrovnik, or even Croatia’s capital, Zagreb. Many people visiting Croatia have previously neglected it as a destination, but this is changing. And, believe me, this historic seaside city is brimming with magnificent sites. Zadar is Dalmatia’s largest city and one of Europe’s oldest continually inhabited cities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is truly breathtaking, and it is well worth a visit. The scenery and landscape, like the rest of the country, are breathtaking. Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s oldest national parks, and it has been listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979. Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is famous for its 16 interconnected lakes, but it also has magnificent waterfalls, natural dams, and varied species of flora and animals (many of which are endemic), all of which contribute to its breathtaking beauty. More than one million tourists visit the park each year, making it the most visited location on Croatia’s mainland.

Bol

Bol, the oldest town on the island of Brac, is located in the southernmost portion of the island. It really has swiftly become a tourist magnet due to its sandy beaches that stretch over 10 kilometers. It also has Zlatni Rat, Croatia’s most famous beach. It’s ideal for everyone who enjoys being outside, and you can spend your time there playing volleyball, football, swimming, or windsurfing in the warm air.

Overall, it was an incredible experience and a fantastic way to explore a Croatian sailing vacation. It’s an experience to live on a considerably small boat but not for a second did we feel bored. The team was great, and we all got along great. It was definitely an experience of a lifetime.

If you really want to sail on the Adriatic Coast in Croatia next summer, whether for a party escape, an adventure, or to spend quality time with your loved ones, I absolutely suggest the MV Adriatic King Deluxe Superior small cruise ship – you can book your place for next summer 2023! Please contact me right away!

Visit My Website

Best Places to Visit when In Ireland

Best Places to Visit when In Ireland

6

Ireland has a very rich history, stretching back hundreds of years. In 1998, the Good Friday Peace Agreement was signed which formally recognized Northern Ireland as a part of the UK and the rest becoming the Republic of Ireland.

Ireland is known for its rain-covered, cold climate. So, before you head to Ireland, make sure you pack the right clothes. This doesn’t mean you won’t get a nice sunny day when you get to Ireland, but the weather is so unpredictable that it’s best to pack for both. However, if you are visiting Ireland during the autumn and winter months, you will need to bring coats and scarves. Summer in Ireland can go one of two ways: either clear skies and sunshine or a lot of rain. So, bring a raincoat and possibly a pair of shorts just in case.

Every place you visit in Ireland offers you something uniquely different, that’s why Ireland is an amazing place to visit. Make time to visit all of Ireland’s amazing cultural attractions, as there are many. From historical castles to a one-of-a-kind landscape, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible exploring it all. This is critical information for your Ireland travel guide because you don’t want to miss out on the best of the country. 

Ireland may be rich in culture and heritage, but you will also be impressed by the incredible variety of food and drink available. The Irish cuisine is incredible, with everything from fine dining to cute cafes. You’ll find everything you’re looking for right here. There are some delectable Irish delicacies to try, such as an Irish Fry or traditional Shepherd’s Pie.

Ireland is small in comparison to much larger tourist destinations, but this is a good thing because you can take your time and enjoy what Ireland has to offer. You can hop on a bus and be in a new city or town in less than an hour.

Ireland has 32 counties, each of which offers something unique to visitors. As important as it is to visit the popular counties, it is also worthwhile to visit the smaller ones. Here are some must-see counties you cannot miss.

County Cork

In terms of land area, County Cork is Ireland’s largest county. With a variety of interesting places to visit and one of Ireland’s oldest cities, County Cork is an excellent place to start your Irish adventure. There is a fascinating history to discover here, as well as numerous towns and attractions. Cobh, Kinsale Town, Ballycotton Cliff Walk, Blackrock Castle Observatory, Spike Island, Cork City Gaol, Cork Butter Museum, and the English Market are among them.

 

County Antrim

County Antrim, Northern Ireland’s largest county, is a beautiful place to visit. The county has a wonderful blend of history and breathtaking scenery. Belfast City, the capital of Northern Ireland, is one of Antrim’s most popular attractions. Apart from Belfast, other great places to visit in Antrim include Portrush, Carrickfergus, Portstewart, and Rathlin Island. In County Antrim, you should see Dunluce Castle, Glens of Antrim, Giants Causeway, Titanic Museum, Old Bushmills Distillery, Antrim Castle and Gardens, Dark Hedges, Glenariff Waterfall Walk, Visit Ballintoy Harbour, and the Causeway Coastal Route.

County Sligo

Sligo may be one of the smallest counties in Ireland, but it has a lot to offer tourists. The beauty of Sligo is considered one of the best, as you will discover when you visit. Sligo County has long been known for its beautiful scenery and landscape. It is also one of Ireland’s best surfing spots. This is the place to go if you want to try a new sport.

County Donegal

Donegal is a stunning Irish county that you must include on your itinerary. The county is located on the rugged north coast of Ireland. Donegal is the place to go if you want to get away and enjoy your surroundings. The county is surrounded by mountain ranges, coastlines, and rural roads. It has a more peaceful atmosphere than the rest of Ireland.

County Clare

Clare has a lot more to offer than what meets the eye. The scenery is breathtaking, and the Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction. Coming to County Clare just to see the impressive Cliffs is a good reason to visit, but once you discover the county’s other hidden gems, you’ll want to stay. A location endowed with numerous areas of outstanding natural beauty and sandy beaches.

County Galway

County Galway is one of the most authentic Irish destinations in Ireland. It is rich in heritage and culture, and it offers the best of western Ireland. The area is bright and enchanting, and it is home to Galway City, one of the most visited cities in Ireland.


Best Five Cities to Visit in Ireland

It’s time to narrow down the best-loved cities and towns to add to your Irish adventure. There are many amazing cities in Ireland that you should not miss out on; some you may have heard of, while others you may not. They all, however, offer a distinct experience, with their own charm and history that you’ll be eager to learn about.



Bundoran, County Donegal

Bundoran, a beautiful seaside town in Ireland, is a must-see. If you’re looking for a place to have fun, relax, and be active, Bundoran has it all. If you are looking for a more activity-based trip in Ireland, it is ideal for water sports and horseback riding. Locals and tourists alike refer to it as ‘Fundoran’ because it is a fantastic place to spend your time in Ireland. It is the site of ‘Sea Sessions,’ one of Ireland’s most popular festivals. Sea Sessions is a music festival held in July/August that includes music, camping, and browsing.

City of Derry

When visiting Ireland, exploring Derry City, Ireland’s City of Culture, is a must. Derry is a fantastic city that has become world-famous for its incredible Halloween festivities and displays that the city organizes each year. It is also the second-largest city in Northern Ireland, after Belfast. Derry is a fantastic place to visit while in Ireland, offering visitors a wealth of history and culture.

The City of Dublin

No one visits Ireland without paying a visit to Dublin, the country’s capital. It is one of the country’s most modern and metropolitan cities. Dublin satisfies every traveler’s desire by combining culture, delicious food and drink, history, literature, and plenty of sightseeing.

Connemara, Galway

Connemara is an exciting destination that you should visit. Connemara has a strong Irish cultural tradition and many interesting attractions in a lovely setting. Clifden Castle, which overlooks the lovely Clifden Bay, and Connemara National Park, which has everything from walking trails to interesting exhibitions. Connemara is densely forested, so driving around and admiring the natural beauty of the landscape is a pleasant way to spend your time.

City of Belfast

Belfast is yet another wonderful city in Northern Ireland. It is a modern, bustling city with a lot to offer anyone who comes here. Belfast is a great city to visit if you want to have a good time while seeing some beautiful sights. A visit to Belfast would be incomplete without a visit to the much-loved St. Georges Market, Northern Ireland’s oldest market, followed by a visit to the Cathedral Quarter, one of Belfast’s liveliest areas, with a diverse range of bars and restaurants.

This Ireland travel blog will assist you in planning your Irish vacation by compiling a list of the best places and attractions for your Irish bucket list. Let me know in the comments if Ireland is on your bucket list.

Need help planning your Ireland trip? Get in touch today!

The Top 5 Best Couple Resorts

The Top 5 Best Couple Resorts

The Top 5 Best Couple Resorts

Travelling with your significant other is one of the most effective ways to get to know them better and strengthen your relationship. I’ve narrowed it down to some of the best couple resorts that are perfect for a romantic adventure, whether you’re looking for a relaxing spa getaway, a private island escape, or a luxurious adventure.

1. Jade Mountain – St. Lucia

Jade Mountain is St. Lucia’s only resort property with the iconic view of both the Piti and Gros Piton mountains floating upon the Caribbean Sea. Jade Mountain is a strong contender for the Caribbean’s most striking hotel. This is also the best resort for couples around the Caribbean Perhaps the most distinctive external feature is that each of the 29 suites is accessed by its own long, bridge-like walkway. You are given round-the-clock access to a set of butlers who will see to your every need, and you’re provided with a mobile phone at check in to get hold of them at any time.

Room service is an elemental part of the Jade Mountain experience – you can have all your meals in your suite if you wish. Lots of other activities are also on offer within the estate, including yoga, a mountain bike trail, walking nature tours, and Tree to Bar chocolate tours – there’s a little chocolate-making laboratory.

You can be assured it has everything – the location, the views, the sanctuaries, the hospitality, the food and a romantic atmosphere – everything is top class.

Book  your trip to Jade Mountain

2. Hermitage Bay – Antigua

A luxurious boutique resort perched on the slope of a secluded sandy bay, where the aroma of fragrant frangipani fills the air and the sound of waves crashing on the shore surrounds you, where experiences designed to refresh, ignite, and soothe the soul await. This could be a memorable resort for a couple’s holiday.

It’s curled up in a quiet corner of Antigua, and featuring luxurious accommodation, wellness, and dining options. Your valentine’s day travel ideas could include celebrating the Caribbean’s peace, warmth, and extraordinary natural beauty.

It’s at the end of an unpaved road on the island’s western shore, surrounded by untouched land and breathtaking sea views.

Natural yet modern suites with sea views, private terraces, deep soaking tubs, and outdoor showers makes it more romantic for your Valentine’s Day travel ideas.

Hermitage Bay has an open-air restaurant serving locally sourced dishes, a relaxing bar, an infinity pool, a beautiful beach, and a tranquil spa. Hermitage Bay is an ideal setting for couples seeking a vacation that leaves them rested and centred.

Book  your trip to Hermitage Bay

3. Four Seasons – Bora Bora 

The Four Seasons resort is located on a private island, paradise in the heart of French Polynesia. Bora Bora, perhaps French Polynesia’s most famous island, is known for its incredible beauty, the highlight of which is its crystalline lagoon. Bora Bora’s main island is surrounded by dozens of tiny islands known as motus. Guests visiting Bora Bora have two choices: stay on the main island or stay on a motu.

The Resort is a vast tropical grove, replete with coconut palms and pandanus trees. Its 115 overwater and beachfront bungalows are beautifully appointed with luxe Polynesian décor, and all designed with thatched roofs and decorated with indigenous artwork.

The Four Seasons offers a wide range of creative culinary experiences, while the full-service spa is balanced by the powerful rhythms of the Pacific Ocean and the tranquillity of the island’s lagoon, providing an unrivalled combination of relaxation and exhilaration.

The resort is home to a stunning infinity pool, a beautiful beach and protected lagoon, a top-notch spa and workout facility, and four on-site restaurants.

Some incredible things which you can experience on your Valentine’s Day travel packages are: Heiva Bora Bora, the island’s annual festival of song and dance; Bora Bora’s famous lagoon on a motorised outrigger canoe.

The Resort offers a selection of highly personalised private culinary experiences. From a romantic dinner for two on the Sunset Motu, movie night on the beach making it the best resort for couples to suit every taste.

The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is a South Pacific paradise that combines the highest standards of service with ultramodern comforts and the natural ease and gracious hospitality of the Polynesian culture.

Book  your trip to the Four Seasons

4. Sandals, Grenada

Sandals Grenada Resort and Spa is an all-inclusive luxury resort, with signature romantic touches like beach fire pits, two-person hammocks and swinging chairs, and rooms with private pools and soaking tubs. 

The 17-acre Sandals Grenada Resort is located on the southern tip of the small, friendly island of Grenada. It is located at the end of a small, quiet stretch of sand known as Pink Gin Beach – and because it is at the very end of the island, it is exposed to the open seas. There are three sections of the hotel: The Pink Gin Village, Italian Village, and South Seas Village. Each village contains a large block of rooms with themed decor.

With five pools, a lovely spa and fitness centre, numerous activities, and 10 restaurants, couples won’t be at a loss for things to do. Sandals also offers additional free perks such as scuba diving, airport transfers, and even weddings for stays of three nights or longer. As an all-inclusive property, all food, and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, are included in room rate. 

A variety of water sports are also available at the beach, such as kayaking, Hobie Cat sailing, windsurfing, and snorkelling, and glass-bottom boat tours. The main pool in South Seas Village is the largest, with a swim-up bar and an in-pool volleyball area. It has daybeds and is flanked by Grecian-style columns, as well as a large hot tub perched on a terrace overlooking the main pool and bar.

As the Sandals resort is located at the very southern tip of Grenada, it is exposed to currents from the open ocean, which makes for rough, choppy waters most days. Sandals’ new all-inclusive resort in Grenada defies all design conventions to create an extraordinary couple’s resort unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.

However, the romance may not end with long walks on the beach, but it will be great for couples’ Valentine’s day travel ideas.

Book  your trip to the Sandals

5. Tabacon Resort and Spa – Arenal Costa Rica 

Tabacon is in Costa Rica’s northern region, in the heart of the tropical rainforest at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. This five-star carbon-neutral resort provides a unique blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Tabacon provides luxurious accommodations, services, and amenities in a spectacular natural setting. The healing thermal mineral spring river cascades from the volcanic earth at the resort, forming waterfalls, streams, tranquil pools, and ponds.

This 102-room eco-friendly spa resort and local institution is a sensuous Eden in a relatively remote area on the west side of the volcano, about a 20-minute drive from La Fortuna and other attractions, with beautiful rainforest and volcano views.

Hot spring enthusiasts of all ages visit from all over the world, and honeymooners can be seen lounging in their bathrobes and slippers among the jungle trees and buffet tables, making this one of the best resorts for couples. This is a popular honeymoon and couples destination, and many of those immersed in the hot waters, taking a nighttime stroll through the jungle paths, or swimming up to the pool barn are obviously romantically minded couples waiting for the right moment to slip under the waterfall alone.

The hotel, which is located on the west side of the volcano, is a destination in and of itself, and those who visit probably don’t mind that they won’t be able to quickly pop into town. The rooms are splendidly kept and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the rainforest that make them feel bright even on a rainy day.

Tabacon was the first hot springs destination in the area and is perhaps the only one with completely natural hot springs. Since this is a spa resort, there is of course also a terrific spa with coed hot tub and relaxation areas. Treatments take place in open-air bungalows by the hot springs. 

Book  your trip to the Tabacon Resort and Spa

This post should have sparked your interest in planning a romantic trip with your significant half. You shouldn’t have to wait until your honeymoon or another special occasion to spend time together and explore new places. Get in touch today to start planning.

Which of these romantic resorts do you want to visit the most? Let me know in the comments!

Oh The Places You Can Go

Oh The Places You Can Go In 2022

2020 was an incredibly long year for everyone, and we are really excited to tell you about some of the options awaiting you in 2021. We promise no matter what your “travel comfort level” may be, there are options for you. Below, we recaps 5 travel opportunities that you should consider adding to your list for this year!

LOOKING FOR GREAT OUT WEST ADVENTURE?

Not ready to travel internationally just yet? That’s ok! Many of our clients will be exploring our beautiful country this year too! The possibilities are endless when considering your family adventures, but some of my favorites won’t shock you. The Grand Canyon should be on every human’s bucket list. It is truly one of the most majestic places that I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing. If you’ve already checked the Grand Canyon off of your list, how about Jackson Hole, Wyoming? You’ll never run out of things to do and it is perfect for a family vacation!

NOW, WHO DOESN'T NEED A LITTLE "MAGIC"?

Walt Disney World has always been and will always be a fan favorite. There’s no one that does it better than Disney and they have proven it over and over again since opening their gates again in July 2020. Classic Travel Connection knows the ins and outs and all the in betweens on how to best prepare you and your family to enjoy your time at the Happiest Place on Earth in 2021. Fun Fact: The CTC Team was on site at Walt Disney World January 25 – 29! They visited all four parks and will be showcasing our experience on our social media accounts.

 
 


ARE YOU AS EXCITED FOR CRUISING TO RESUME AS WE ARE?

 

We are waiting patiently (kind of) to be able to hop on a cruise ship and sail into the sunset again. It’s been so long and we can’t wait! What’s your preferred cruising style? Island hopping in the Caribbean?
A cruise up the West Coast to Alaska? Or, how about a European River Cruise?
What do I prefer, you ask? Well, I prefer all of the above, but my first cruise of 2022 will be a cruise to Bermuda. What about you?


HOW LONG HAS IT BEEN SINCE YOU'VE SHOWN OFF YOUR SNOW SKIING SKILLS?

There’s still time in 2022 to hit the slopes! This week the mountains are getting pounded with the powder and more and more slopes are opening up. It’s the perfect time to learn a new skill or sharpen your snow carving skills on your skis or snowboard.


KEEP READING, BECAUSE WE'VE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST!

 

The last year has been long, hard and we are tired and weary from the journey. It’s time to relax, unwind, rest, recover and rejuvenate. One of our favorite destinations for all of these relaxing activities is on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia. Over the last 6 months, CTC has had five advisors visit this lovely island and this week we’ll have two more on location at the Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort. You deserve to take a break and St. Lucia is the perfect place to do so!

 

I am here for you! LuxTravel Katie and all of CTC wants nothing more than for you to have the vacation of YOUR dreams. Classic Travel Connection is a team of experts dedicated to you and your perfect travel experience, and as part of that team, I am ready to assist you in traveling in this “new age” travel I know the new travel protocols, I am your advocate, and YOU are my priority

.

I CAN'T WAIT TO HELP YOU GET OUT OF YOUR HOUSE IN 2022!