In mid-2008, Dubrovnik was in the midst of a massive makeover, it was aimed at helping set new attitudes and standards at which this former war-torn city would be viewed. The plan was to wow the world into wanting to come back and visit after so many years. Once a tourist gem back in the late 1980's and early 1990's, Dubrovnik then became a prime bombing target during the four year Croatian war, and the tourist industry has struggled to convince the world that the city is now a safe place to travel to.
No where more than Dubrovnik has spent more time rebuilding it's bombed out city of medieval streets, churches, and streets one brick, one tile, and one stone at a time. About 30 percent of the city's hotels are still closed or under renovation. But as each hotel opens, it solidifies the massive effort of the tourist industry that this will return to a five-star destination again.
The lure of Dubrovnik is that there are no mega-resorts in the region. Hotels have spread outward from the walled city, creating what is called the "Dubrovnik Riviera". Unlike other parts of the Adriatic Coast, this region discourages mass tourism, which makes individual travel very rewarding.
Upon first visiting the city, touring the city's walls is a must do. Gorgeous views of the surrounding water, the island of Lokrum, and the beautiful mountains backdropping the city are just of the romantic sites you will experience on your walk around the walls. Just beware for those of you who do not like heights, the walk-way is at the top of the walls, and then can become quite crowded with tourists during the mid-day. Like most tourist attractions, either go early or late in the day, especially during June through September, as the weather gets very warm.
Another romantic thing to do while visiting Dubrovnik is visiting the lovely island of Mljet, which boasts a beautifully kept National Park. Take a romantic stroll through the well maintained pathways, which are bordered by lakes and unspoiled wilderness, pack a picnic lunch, rent bicycles for two and ride around the island, or cool off in one of the warm lakes on a hot summer's day. The pace is quite laid back, which makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy your time.
Check out our website, http://www.romantic-vacations-holidays.com for future updates on romantic vacation destinations and activities in Croatia.
Fantastic Romantic Vacations
