Ask The Expert
Meet Ash, Fleewinter’s Croatia Expert
By Valeria Garibotti on 5th May, 2023
I’m Ash, and I’m writing to you as the sun sets over the Adriatic in Lapad Dubrovnik. Quite the inspiration! I always felt drawn to Croatia. Do you ever get that feeling, you don’t know why but you know you must go? And when I first visited, Croatia surpassed my expectations.
I’m originally from Ireland, so I guess I’m drawn to small islands – ideally with a lot more sun! I also grew up in London, so I love the buzz of a city. For me, there is nothing better than sipping a smooth coffee in an ancient Croatian city in the morning before hopping on a boat to one of the many islands in Croatia (over 1000! plenty to choose from!).
LIFE IS ALL ABOUT CONNECTIONS
I love connecting clients to locations and accommodation they’ll love. I’m truly happy when I get a message from a client saying, ‘you got this spot on, we’re so happy’.
When I’m in Croatia I love to connect with the locals. One of my client’s favourite experiences is staying at Martinis Marchi, built by the Marchi family to protect the island of Solta from invaders.
During a stay here, you can visit local wineries, olive oil farms, and share lunch with a local beekeeping family. A wonderful intimate experience with the real and authentic Croatian culture!
I AM HAPPIEST WHEN EXPLORING
I remember when I first arrived in Croatia, it was all so new to me.
Words I didn’t know how to pronounce. Excellent local wines I had never heard of. Architecture and local culture shaped by a long history of invasions I knew nothing about. I didn’t know Peka from Pašticada (some of the local dishes).
I find that private tours are a great way to experience Croatia’s unique culture, so I will always suggest privately escorted excursions that fit your interests so that you can get the best experience on your Croatian holiday.
I DO LOVE A GLASS OF WINE!
What’s better than a crisp cold dry white wine on a hot sunny day?
Wine regions can be found throughout Croatia and one of my favourite destinations is the Relais & Châteaux Meneghetti Wine Hotel. A gorgeous wine estate, off the beaten path in the heart of rural Istria.
A beautifully relaxing place to stay, near the charming village of Bale. The local Malvazija is delicious!
I ENJOY BEING ACTIVE!
I’m that travelling friend that says: “It’s not far, we can walk!” I love nothing better than a meander.
There’s plenty to keep me active in Croatia. Some favourite experiences are wandering through national parks, paddling to islands and caves on a kayak, and climbing steps to the top of forts on a quest for stunning views.
If there’s a zipline to get back down, even better.
WHAT’S NEW IN CROATIA
There have been some big changes in Croatia, the biggest being a move to the Euro from the Kuna, so dig out those spare coins from your last European trip!
We have new experiences in Croatia too!
One of the biggest appeals of Croatia is combining the mainland with island life. I am pleased to offer day boat charters from Split with a wonderful team. Enjoy a tailormade 7 -day itinerary on a gulet with options from 3 to 7 cabins, or make sure no one misses out and opt for a 19 cabin superior deluxe mini-cruiser to explore the islands in style.
Click here to read more on what’s new in Croatia as Ash reviews some new experiences now that Summer 2023 has come to an end.
NEW DESTINATIONS ON THE HORIZON
I started writing to you from Dubrovnik, but today I finish my update from Kotor – a historic protected old town that spirals uphill from the calm shores of Boka Bay.
The last few days have been filled with panoramic drives, jaw dropping pine tree clad lakes, snow-capped mountains, and ziplines over one of the deepest canyons in Europe.
Meeting a mischievous monk who sat watching over the body of a saint was a particular highlight!
Before Montenegro, my travels took me to Bosnia. A country I knew little about until a lovely client wanted to include Bosnia in his itinerary. He was stunned, and so was I.
Bosnia is a beautiful country, so close to Croatia but worlds apart. Bosnia is the most culturally diverse country in the Balkans and wows with a mixture of Western and Eastern influences.
FEELING INSPIRED…?
From the first time I explored Croatia I felt a deep connection with the country and every time I go back it surprises me more. The natural beauty, rich history, and some of Europe’s friendliest people make it a truly unmissable destination.
If you are feeling inspired, I am only a phone call or email away to have a friendly chat and help you plan your next Croatian holiday! Or maybe you wish to discover a bit more about my next destinations, Bosnia and Montenegro.