croatia | destination


ASHORE in the Adriatic


Old Town, Dubrovnik


From perfect beaches and unspoiled nature to some of the best seafood in the Mediterranean, it’s all on offer on Croatia’s islands, says Andy Jarosz


CLEAR BLUE WATER, quiet sandy beaches and beautiful Venetian architecture: Croatia’s islands may not receive the same level of attention as the Italian resorts just across the Adriatic, but after one visit it’s easy to understand why they’re rapidly becoming a popular choice for vacations in the Mediterranean sunshine. Croatia’s


islands offer some of southern


Europe’s most attractive coastal scenery and architecture, and while prices have risen in recent years, they still represent some of the region’s best value vacation destinations. Croatia’s entry into the EU has brought an easing of border controls, and in 2013 around 10 million overseas


visitors came to the country — around 160,000 were from the US. In recent years, there’s been a steady increase in the number of upscale hotels and fashion boutiques, while the variety and quality of seafood restaurants is consistently good. Te Croatian islands run along the full length


of the country’s 327-mile Adriatic coastline — ideal for cruising — with the most popular islands in the south, easily accessed by ferries from the historic cities of Split and Dubrovnik, which nearly all itineraries take time to admire. Korcula is perhaps the best-known and most


photogenic of the islands, with its Venetian heritage, coast-hugging wall and medieval town


topped with tightly-packed red roofs. Shore excursions take in walking tours of the historic towns and some cruises offer activity options, such as mountain biking or kayaking in the clear blue water off the shores of the islands. Te region is becoming increasingly connected


to the European flight network, with low-cost airlines and national carriers connecting the airports with several major hubs. Getting around is simple, and car rental is easily arranged for those wishing to explore the more secluded beaches. And with increasing visitor numbers leading to an ever-greater choice of hotels, there are options to suit almost any budget. u


fall 2015 | ASTAnetwork | 85


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