I didn’t expect to fall in love so quickly. Croatia, with its layered history and resilient spirit, swept me off my feet. The signs of war are still visible, cracked stones, quiet memorials,but what struck me most was the determination to rebuild. And not just rebuild, but to thrive.

Dubrovnik: A Fantasy Made Real

Dubrovnik was everything I imagined and more. Yes, it’s the iconic backdrop for Game of Thrones, but beyond the cinematic grandeur lies a city pulsing with life. The food? Delicious and diverse, with friendly service that made every meal feel like a celebration. I even brought home a bottle of chocolate liquor, a sweet reminder of the warmth I found there.

Croatia isn’t just recovering, it’s forging ahead with grace and grit. Tourism is booming, but not in a way that feels exploitative. It’s thoughtful, welcoming, and deeply rooted in place. I saw pride in every rebuilt wall, every smiling vendor, every clean beach.

I’d go back in a heartbeat.