Dubrovnik, Croatia

Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik is known for its beautiful architecture. Dubrovnik's residents take pride in their independence and consider it to be a separate country from Croatia. In spite of the fact that most people speak English here, Croatian is the official language. Communication was easy the entire time I was there. During my three-and-a-half days there, I walked around the walled city, visited the beach, and ate to my heart's content. The weather was perfect when I visited in September. Locals told me that this was a perfect time to visit since there were not too many tourists. In September, I visited the country because of the perfect weather. I took public transportation from the airport to my hotel and then took a free shuttle into the walled city. There were beaches within walking distance of most of the places I visited. It would have been nice to visit a nearby island if I had more time, but I was perfectly content just wandering around Dubrovnik. Since it was my first time visiting, I stayed at a hotel. Additionally, you can find beautiful villas and apartments to rent in nearby neighborhoods, all within walking distance of the walled city and local beaches. If you want to visit the wall, try going early in the morning when there are no crowds. The traffic becomes a warpath as soon as the tours begin. The wall is also a great place to watch sunsets, and there are a few bars where you can relax and enjoy the view.

If you have time one late afternoon, or evening during sunset try visit and hang out on Stradun street in the main square of the old town. You will see locals dancing to traditional Dalmation music, and musicians performing. Its a great time and place to grab a coffee or cocktail.

A view of the sunset on top of the wall

A view during the day from on top of the wall

Just another cafe inside the wall. Of course I stopped at this one because it had pink chairs.

The lone Palm tree...

Its always nice to wander through the old town, but definitely bring some walking shoes. The amount of stairs you will encounter is astounding. Prepare to be humbled by an 80-year-old woman carrying three bags of groceries up the stairs:) Please be respectful and mindful of where you are walking in this area, because remember: people do actually live and work in this neighborhood.

 

A local's pop-up shop located inside of the wall

 

There are tons of stray cats that are super friendly and will wander into restaurants, bars or join you  on the beach. They are definitely part of the Dubrovnik welcome wagon. I call them strays but I guess they have all really been adopted by the locals. 

I had the time of my life eating food here. Even though I have dietary restrictions being vegan, there was no shortage of vegan food options in the old town and throughout Dubrovnik.