From the mostly mountainous – and rainy during our stay – Bosnia, we made our way to Croatia. Our spirits lifted the moment we saw the beautiful Croatian coastline and azure waters. What a joy it was to feel the sun on my skin again! Although most of the Asians on the tour, in typical Asian fashion, started complaining about it being too hot and glaring.*eye roll*
We stayed for five nights in this town called Vela Luka on the island of Korcula. It’s a quiet town on a quiet island about three hours by bus and then a 15-minute ride from Dubrovnik or Split. Both of these cities are where you can get the nearest flight connections.
Went for a hike up Hum Hill (377m) on one of the free days away from the 62-big (horrors!!!) tour group. It was such a relief to be able to do my own thing and not be herded around like sheep. Here I’m standing on top of a deserted fortress that overlooks Vela Luka. Love the balmy Mediterranean climate – perfect for hiking! Along the hike you can see some olive trees. Korcula island produces lots of olive oil and so you’ll see many olive trees and plantations there.
Wise words from a wine shop and cafe in Korcula town. We spent the day at the town centre of Korcula island. Korcula town is also known as little Dubrovnik as its old city walls and architecture that lies within the old town resemble those of the UNESCO world heritage site of Dubrovnik’s old town.
Grand old city walls still standing after five centuries.
You will see many of such bridges between buildings in Korcula town. These bridges were used in the past for men to go to their mistresses whom they had stashed in the building, so that they won’t be seen walking out of the front door for some illicit love. Sneaky.
We also went to Proizd island, which is a 45-minute boat ride from Vela Luka. People go to the island mostly to swim. Though the beaches are not that great – too rocky – the waters are so incredibly blue and clear. The mountains in the distance also provided a beautiful backdrop.
A typical Croatian meal – grilled fish, spinach and potato.
