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Touchdown ON EUROPE


Pisa, Italy Dubrovnik, Croatia


BY MARJOLEIN LLOYD


I


n British Columbia, we are fortunate to be surrounded by the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, thousands of lakes, many forests and an abundance of wildlife. We live in a multicultural province, with residents represen- ting countries from all over the world. The aboriginal beginnings of our relatively young country is well documented and proudly represen- ted. But what BC lacks can be found in Southern Europe, rich in impressive architecture, spanning centuries and ruins of ancient settlements of a time long gone. History truly comes alive as you explore Southern Europe, an experience that is unique to this part of the world. Let us introduce you to five destinations that you may find worthwhile to discover. Whether it is by car, boat, bicycle, or on foot, you can start your travels conveniently close to home from YLW.


DUBROVNIK, CROATIA Known as “The Pearl of the Adriatic”, Dubrovnik is a year round destination that has something for everyone, regardless of the time of year. And springtime is no exception! A flight from Kelowna to Dubrovnik will make stops in Toronto and Frankfurt when flying with Star Alliance partners Air Canada


SPRING 2012 | 9


and Lufthansa. The Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) is approximately 20 km from the city and there are buses scheduled for each arriving flight that will take you into town. If embarking on a cruise ship, there are many organized tours that are perfect for either the history buffs, or those who are more interested in experiencing Dubrovnik’s rich culture. But whether you have one day or two weeks in the city, one must wander down Stradun, or Placa, located in the Old City; it is one of the best strolls in Europe. From the Pile Gate to the Harbour there is a lot to appreciate: the preserved and manicured medieval paving stones and buildings, the ancient fountain, courteous store owners, many restaurants, the cleanliness and the side streets that lure you in. The best-known attraction in Dubrovnik is the nearly 2000 metres of stone walls surrounding the old city,


centuries, aiding in the protection against invaders. You can stroll along the walls and enjoy the views of the Adriatic Sea and the white sands of Lapad Beach on one side and look over the old town centre from the other side. Encompassed in these walls is the open-air museum, including several forts and towers. If you still have time in the city, there are many churches and monasteries that date back to the 15th


which were originally built in the 10th century and modified in the 13th 14th


and and 16th centuries including the Franciscan Monastery, home of the third


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