Dubrovnik

From Split, we took a five-hour bus ride south to Dubrovnik. I had first heard of the town from some fellow travelers in Prague, but as it turns out, Dubrovnik is one of the most popular tourist resorts on the Mediterranean. I guess I haven't spent enough time watching the Travel Channel! Even though it's a very popular tourist destination, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that it's actually a very affordable place. For less than $50/night, we had a room at Apartment Gordana, which was actually a private home with three guest rooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen. The owner (Gordana) lived in the home just above ours with her mother and she was a wonderful hostess. She and her mother even made us a special dinner one evening, which we enjoyed on our private terrace. You don't get that kind of treatment everywhere!

We spent a day wandering around the old city, which is very well-preserved, despite being heavily bombed during the war in the 90's. Another day was spent on an excursion to the nearby island of Lopud, where we spent a great day at the beach. The weather was beautiful every day that we were there, so we tried to take full advantage of outdoor activities. (Although we also got in plenty of naps and reading time as well!).

A much better picture of the old city than I could have taken (thank you Wikitravel!):


Views from our terrace at the apartment:




View of the old city from the stairs leading down to it:


On a ferry to Lopud island:


The beach at Lopud:




With our hostess Gordana (middle), our fellow guest Gail from Australia, and Gordana's mother (looking at this picture made me realize that my 90 SPF sunscreen is really doing its job):