Tour B-108

2020 The Best of 4 Countries

14-day/13-night deluxe tour of Croatia, Slovenia & Montenegro with quick look into Bosnia & Herzegovina

Starting in Zagreb, terminating in Dubrovnik

What will you see: Zagreb-Ljubljana-Bled- Postojna-Motovun-Livade-Rovinj-Porec-Pula-Opatija-Plitvice Lakes-Zadar-Sibenik-Trogir-Split-Mostar-Ston-Kotor-Tivat-Budva-Sv. Stefan-Dubrovnik

From $3,995 per person Deluxe tour, land only. Tour limited to 8 participants.

Suitable for baby boomers and seniors This tour can be arranged for physically challenged

ITINERARY Day 1 ARRIVAL IN ZAGREB (D) Upon arrival at Zagreb airport, you will be met by your Personal Tour Director (PTD) and taken to the Hotel Esplanade (formerly the Regent Hotel), one of the finest hotels in Zagreb. Hotel itself has lots of history and it was built to accommodate VIP passengers traveling on famous Orient Express from Paris to Istanbul and so vividly depicted in

Agatha Christie’s novel “Murder on the Orient Express”. Don’t miss to take a look at hotel’s “Wall of Fame” with pictures of numerous celebrities and big names who stayed at this truly elegant hotel. Enjoy a massage or spa treatment, and dinner in one of Zagreb’s leading restaurants, our compliments, as indicated in your Personal Itinerary (PI). Day 2 ZAGREB (B) After a sumptuous breakfast in bed at your hotel (or in the hotel restaurant), we will take you on a walking tour to explore this vibrant city, its historical sites, museums and galleries. Please bear in mind that many areas, streets and attractions are closed to traffic and some walking might be required. The guide will take you to the main square (Trg Bana Jelacica), Gornji Grad (Upper Town) and the National theater with famous Mestrovic sculpture ”Well of Life” in front of it. Once you are in the city center, one thing will be so obvious; too many streetcars. Zagreb has one of the best public transportation in Europe by using predominantly streetcars. Zagreb is also very clean and very safe city with crime rate at the bottom of all major European cities. You can virtually walk anywhere at any time; day or night. However, always exercise dose of caution. City’s main artery Ilica (pron: ee-lee-tza) starts from the city center and stretches northward all the way to suburbs and it is dotted with boutiques, shops, restaurants and cafes. Adjacent to the main square (Trg Bana Jelacica) is Zagreb’s acclaimed Farmers market. It is fun just to browse through and take some pictures of farmers and old ladies selling different produce. Zagreb (“Little Vienna”) is typical western-European city, with its streets and architecture resembling those of Vienna, Budapest, Munich or any other central or western European metropolis. Zagreb has always been a political, economical and cultural center of Croatia and today is vibrant with streetcars running in every direction. Even the Upper town on the hill is served by cable-pulled streetcars. It might be fun for you to take a ride on steep hill-climbing

streetcar to Upper Town. Numerous museums, galleries and points of interest are situated in this city. Among them is the most notable Mimara Museum. One of the best Museums of Naïve art in Europe is located in Zagreb, with art works of all major Croatian naïve artists. Croatian naïve art originated in the vicinity of Zagreb (Hlebine) where uneducated peasants and farmers ventured into art. During the long winter months when field work is idle, farmers and peasants

would paint country motifs and country life on glass plates using simple media. As the movement grew, many peasants got involved in this form of artistic expression, creating some incredible art. Many of them subsequently earned more form their art than from farming and dedicated their full focus to art. If you are into art, you might want to pay visit to controversial Mimara Museum (all museums and galleries are in close proximity) which houses a rich collection of major classic works of art by Monet, Ruben, Velasquez and many other classic masters.

As for dining experience and if you feel a bit adventurous, you might consider having dinner at Restaurant Okrugljak located on a hill just outside the city. This is one of the favorites for locals featuring excellent Croatian cuisine and local wines at fairly reasonable prices. A good dinner for two with a bottle of good wine should cost you less than $100. BTW, the place also has live entertainment. A local “Tamburitza” band consisting mostly of sting instruments is entertaining

patrons by going from table to table and playing favorite songs. In many cases patrons join-in in singing. The view from the Restaurant’s terrace is spectacular; at night Zagreb city lights below look like a sea of lights. If you feel like having a bit more formal dinner, than restaurant Vinodol in city center (short distance from hotel) will provide an excellent Croatian dinner. Have hotel concierge make reservation for either choice. You might want to try a typical Zagreb specialty “strukle” (pron: shtru-kleh). Cheese filled dough dumplings boiled in hot water can be eaten as appetizer or dessert (similar to blintzies). If you are a meet lover, try lamb on a spit, or grilled “chevapchichi” (specially blended and grinded various cuts of meets,

spiced and rolled into small finger-like shapes (very tasty). Zagreb even though not located on the sea, has some excellent fish dishes in almost any restaurant you dine. Grilled calamari (squid), fried small sardines, many types of fish from the Adriatic brought in daily are all excellent choice. But you might want to leave fish dishes for the Adriatic since you will be spending many days at the Dalmatian coast well praised for its healthy and tasty Mediterranean cuisine. Overnight at hotel Esplanade in Zagreb. Day 3 ZAGREB-LJUBLJANA-BLED (B) (86 mi/2.5h. effective driving) Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast we will head to Ljubljana. It is relatively short ride and we will arrive there before lunch. After lunch your private local guide will take you on city tour of Ljubljana. Ljubljana is the capital of a state, but it is small and pretty, easy to get around, and full of surprises. While during winter it is its dreamy central European character that prevails, during summer it has a relaxed Mediterranean feel to it. It is remarkable for its rich tradition, youthful vibrancy, cultural creativity, feel for entertainment, and numerous green spaces. Ljubljana has preserved evidence of all the five millennia of its history, including, among others, the remains of the Roman city of Emona and the old city centre with its medieval castle and beautiful buildings with Baroque façades, decorative portals and uneven roofs. Other significant bits in the mosaic of Ljubljana are its picturesque bridges across the river Ljubljanica and its vast Tivoli park, stretching into the very city centre. In the second half of the 20th century, it was the world famous architect Jože Plečnik that put an indelible personal stamp on his native city, and the so called Plečnik's Ljubljana ranks among the 20th century's most prominent total works of art. Ljubljana's appearance was further shaped by Plečnik's pupils and a whole new wave of renowned young Slovenian architects. Ljubljana is a vibrant centre of creativity where cultural activity has become a way of life. It boasts one of the world's oldest philharmonics. Each year it hosts more than 10,000 cultural events, from prestigious music, theatre and art events to those pertaining to alternative and avant-garde culture.

After Ljubljana stop, continue to Bled (1.0 h. drive) and check in at boutique hotel Villa Bled overlooking the beautiful lake Bled. Day 4 BLED- POSTOJNA-ROVINJ (B, L) (180 mi/3.5 h) Breakfast at hotel and sightseeing of lake Bled Afterwards we depart for the Adriatic Coast, to the Istrian peninsula and the picturesque old town of Rovinj but first we will detour and visit one of the most pristine Alpine lakes; lake Bled. After Bled, on to Postojna Caves, the largest underground caves in Europe is our next stop. There will be lunch en route and our arrival in Rovinj is scheduled for late afternoon. We will check in at boutique 5-star hotel Monte Mulini. Overnight in Rovinj.

Day 5 ROVINJ-POREC-MOTOVUN-LIVADE-ROVINJ “CIRCLE OF ISTRIA” Breakfast at your hotel. In the morning we will explore this beautiful and picturesque, sleepy fishing town with its narrow polished cobble stone streets dotted with shops, galleries, boutiques and cafes. Rovinj is today one of Europe’s most popular artists’ colonies. Some of the streets are so narrow that one must let the other person pass first. In fact, one is named “Lascia mi passare” (Let me pass). Many of streets are not accessible to handicapped due to many steps or steep incline. After a brief city tour of Rovinj we will proceed to Porec where Basilica Euphrasia, one of ONESCO’s protected

monuments, is located. We will have a professional local guide on hand to explain the historical significance of this monument dating from the Byzantine period. We then proceed to the truffles capital of the world: Motovun/Livade townships. This is the place where the largest white truffle was discovered in 1999 weighing in at about 3 lbs and recorded in the Guinness’ Book of World Records. We will visit the shop of the gentleman who discovered this “white gold, “where you will be able to purchase gourmet truffle delights and gifts. A delicious lunch featuring dishes prepared with truffles will await you, with our compliments. After lunch, a brief climb and sightseeing to Motovun’s castle overlooking the entire valley. Later in the afternoon, before returning

to Rovinj, a delightful afternoon. Late afternoon return to Rovinj. Evening free.

Day 6 ROVINJ-PULA-OPATIJA (B) (52 mi/1 h) Off to Opatija, one of the most elegant Adriatic seaside resorts which was a favorite, cherished by European nobility from the late nineteenth century. Again by private limo, we will stop en route in Pula to see the most remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater in the world (only a few stones from its walls are missing). We will briefly sightsee in the city and by early afternoon you will check in to one of the best 5-star hotels here.

Day 7 OPATIJA-PLITVICE LAKES (B, D) (118 mi/2.5 h) Breakfast at hotel. Today we visit Plitvice Lakes, Europe’s largest National Park. A chain of 16 lakes, one above another connected with waterfalls and cascades set in a lush, natural environment (one of the ten “must see” places in Croatia). This will come as welcome change of scenery and a contrast from the urban hustle and bustle, traffic, crowded streets and restaurants. Imagine sixteen pristine lakes set one above the next in a rain-forest green, jungle-like natural landscape with the water cascading from one lake to the next. This is such unique gift of nature that UNESCO proclaimed it as one of its World Heritage Monuments, the only natural monument in Croatia under UNESCO’s protection. Not to be missed! Accommodation and dinner at boutique hotel Villa Mukinja or Degenija in Plitvice Lakes.

Day 8 PLITVICE LAKES-ZADAR-SIBENIK-TROGIR-SPLIT (165 mi/3.5 h) After breakfast we will depart to Split and make intermediate stops in Zadar, Sibenik and Trogir; all three towns with enormous historical and cultural treasures. Trogir named as a UNESCO heritage monument. TROGIR (TRAGURION) was settled by the Greeks in IV-III century BC during their hunts across Mediterranean. In the First century AC, Trogir became a Roman municipality, "TRAGURIUM CIVIUM ROMANORUM," joined to Salona, the center of the Roman province of Dalmatia. Upon the fall of the Roman Empire in the fifth century, Trogir was developed as an independent town. (more…TBA) Day 9 SPLIT-NIGHT ON THE TOWN Morning sightseeing of this beautiful city, the pride of the Dalmatian people

and the center of Dalmatian culture and economy. Many songs have been composed about this beautiful city. Our city sightseeing tour will take you to the Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, Riva Promenade, Mestrovic Gallery. Diocletian's Palace (Croatian: Dioklecijanova palača) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diocletian%27s_Palace Was built in Split, Croatia by the Roman emperor Diocletian at the turn of the 4th century AD. Roman Emperor Diocletian built this massive palace in preparation for his retirement in 305 AD. It lies in a bay on the south side of a short peninsula running out from the Dalmatian coast, four miles from Salona, the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. The terrain slopes gently seaward and is a typical karst, consisting of low limestone ridges running east to west with marl in the clefts between them. (more…TBA) Day 10 SPLIT-MAKARSKA-STON-DUBROVNIK (140 mile/3.0 h) On the way to the “pearl of the Adriatic,” you will stop briefly at the charming seaside township of Makarska and its pristine beach.

The best way to explore Dubrovnik is by foot. Please have comfortable walking shoes, for there will be lots of walking and step climbing. We will supply more info about Dubrovnik upon request.

Day 11 DUBROVNIK City Sightseeing Tour - Part I - explore more of this city, one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Monuments. Balance of day free in Dubrovnik. Day 12 DUBROVNIK – MONTENEGRO-DUBROVNIK (75 miles each way) Day excursion to Montenegro: Bay of Kotor, Budva, Sv. Stefan. Sveti Stefan, Montenegro Montenegro's famous tourist place Sveti Stefan is one of the most prestigious and unique locations on the Adriatic Coast map. The small island once a fisherman’s village, is transformed into luxury resort-hotel but completely preserved with its original look and spirit with narrow cobbled streets, old stone houses and small churches. The hotel is managed by prestigious Aman Resorts. The whole region of Sveti Stefan is booming as the economic and tourism growth of Montenegro has been unprecedented over the last few years. Historically a favorite resort of rich and famous and celebrities who regularly spent holidays here, Sveti Stefan always has been a representative and highly respected tourism area. Today, Sveti Stefan sustains its reputation as a top place to spend a vacation, buy a property or make a business investment. DINNER PROGRAM: Returning from Montenegro, we will stop at our family village retreat and you will be our guest for dinner with our family. But this won’t be any dinner. It is something very special and this could very well be the highlight of your trip.

Cousin Katarina who speaks very good English likes to impress our guests by dressing up in traditional local Croatian costume. She takes them first to family cellar (konoba) and offers home-made liquors and grape schnapps along with home-made prosciutto, cheeses, jams and other home-made delicacies. Then she takes guests to a family organic garden to pick their own vegetables for dinner as well as lettuce and fruits (in season). Our hostess then encourages guests to participate in preparing the meal and is eager to teach how to make some prized Croatian recipes. Once everything is prepared, the cooking is done in the ancient, traditional, almost forgotten, Croatian way of cooking known as "ispod peke" or on open fire. The kitchen here is fairly big and one entire wall is an open fireplace. Fire is fueled by natural wood, hickory and mesquite and then the food is put in pans and covered by iron bells. All this is buried under chunks of hot wood and let cook for about one hour. Once the food is done, pans are brought to the table and the iron bell removed. Mediterra attests you will agree you've never smelled or tasted anything like this. Dinner is served and guests will sit with members of the family----kids, grandparents, host, hostess Katarina, maybe even a cat and a pair of turtles. The food is complimented by home-made family reserve wine that is from the family vineyard, not for commercial use but strictly family consumption. My cousin Katarina will entertain you during the dinner by telling stories about family, noble members of family and ancestors and episodes of history dating back to Ottoman times more than 400 years ago. This experience will give you a glimpse into an authentic Croatian family's everyday life and struggles as well as their joy and appreciation for what they have. Mediterra swears that this will be the highlight of your entire trip. After dinner return to your hotel in Dubrovnik (about 30 min.) Overnight in Dubrovnik Day 13 DUBROVNIK-HOME Transfer to Dubrovnik airport for return flight home

*** End of Tour *** HOTELS ZAGREB: 4* Dubrovnik or Astoria LJUBLJANA: 4* Cubo or “M” hotel ROVINJ: 4* Angelo D’Oro (boutique) or Adriatic OPATIJA: 4* Villa Ariston (boutique), Imperial

PLITVICE LAKES: 4* Villa Verde (boutique) or Miric Inn SPILT: 4* Boutique Hotel Jupiter or Cornaro DUBROVNIK: 4* Hotel Lero or Hotel Zagreb Price is based on Standard rooms in all hotels. Higher category rooms available at additional cost.

2020 PRICES & DEPARTURES

Price per person in USD based on double occupancy and cash payment. Group limit: max 8 persons

This tour can be arranged for physically challenged persons

TOUR: B-108

The Best of Croatia, Slovenia & Montenegro

DEPARTURES (from ZAG) PRICEMAR 4, 18 3,995

APR 1, 15, 29 4,653

MAY 13, 27 5,368

JUN 10, 24 6,226

JUL 8, 22 6,826

AUG 8, 22 6,826

SEP 2, 16 6,226

SEP 30, OCT 14, 28 5,377

NOV 11, 25 4,653

DEC 9, 23 3,995

Single Supplement +35%

Third Person sharing -30%

Deluxe Tour limited to 8 participants

Prices in USD per person based on double occupancy

DISCOUNTS:

4 persons traveling together -$150 off p.p.

8 persons traveling together -$200 off p.p. NOTE: For payment options, cancellations and refunds please go to DEPOSIT & REFUND POLICY. INCLUDED IN TOUR PACKAGE:

1. Modern, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire trip 2. Concierge-type English-speaking, non-smoking driver throughout the entire tour 3. Local expert-tour guides in Zagreb, Ljubljana, Split, Dubrovnik 4. 12 Night accommodations at boutique or 4* hotel hotels in each place on your itinerary 5. Daily buffet breakfasts 6. All city sightseeing tours are conducted with private guides and private limo/mini-van. 7. Excursions and side trips as specified in your Personal Itinerary (PI). 8. Complete baggage handling. 9. All car rides have an ample supply of complimentary moist towlettes, chilled bottled water and refreshments

(Mediterra signature service). 10. Complimentary Internet access. Access to your email throughout the trip 11. A Personalized Itinerary (PI) before departure will be supplied to each client individually. Your PI will provide all

pertinent details for your trip, such as hotels and their links, daily activities broken down by hours, names of restaurants, guides, drivers as well as all other details tailored to each client.

12. All VAT taxes, tourist tax, hotel taxes and local government taxes. 13. Mediterra 24/7 Total Care service

NOT INCLUDED:

• Air to/from Croatia (unless Air option chosen)

• Meals other than those specified in Itinerary

• Travel Cancelation or Travel Interruption insurance (highly recommended)

• Medical and personal injury insurance

• Admission fees to attractions, National Parks, museums and galleries other than those specified

• Items of personal nature ordered in hotels

• Tips to service personnel

888-488-3350

Call for more information

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Ph. (310) 428-1343 * 888-488-3350 * E: info@mediterradmc.com

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