Croatian 'Sailing'

Note to self: Next time you plan on booking a 'Croatian Sailing Adventure,' ensure that the sailing adventure in question is A. On a boat that actually sails, as opposed to a glorified fishing trawler, B. At a time of year that has good weather, and C. Not on a boat almost entirely populated by Australian girls, aged 20-30.

So yeah, the sailing adventure has proved to be a little disappointing. The weather wasn't too nice and we were spending a lot of time on the boat with some very silly girls. But yesterday the weather improved and things started looking up. We went swimming off the boat in the gorgeous blue Adriatic, and I took out one of the sea kayaks and explored some seashore caves. It was amazing...the water is just this fantastic shade of blue, and the coastline is endless rows of cliffs with little red-roofed villages perched on them.

Yesterday we also arrived at Dubrovnik, a walled city right on the coast. It was damaged in the war in 1991 and 1992, but has been rebuilt so thoroughly, you could never tell anything was destroyed. I took a walk along the city walls with Dana (a really nice Canadian on the boat with me), which gave amazing views of the city and the sea behind. Then off to a little beach by the city, filled with all these smooth round pebbles and the same gorgeous water as everywhere else. I forgot my bathing suit, but figured if the men on the beach could subject me to their Speedos, I could get away with my underwear. Then the tastiest seafood paella/risotto-type dish I've ever had, and a liter of red wine for the both of us, all for about 8 pounds. And that's one of the most expensive meals I've had so far. Yaay Eastern Europe.

Off to more islands for the rest of the week, and then back to Split on Saturday, where I'm staying at Al's Hostel again (I was there on Thursday and Friday) because I had so much fun. Al is this entertaining British guy who just decided to open a hostel in Split. He reminds me of my fantastic gymnastics coach in London, and is tons of fun. Both the nights I was there, a group from the hostel went out for dinner and drinks, guided and accompanied by Al. The hostel isn't the prettiest, but it makes up for amenities in hospitality. It's nice when you're traveling alone to actually spend time with real people. (Although at the end of this tour, I know I'll definitely be needing some alone time - yaay floating dorm of Australian girls.)

Anyway, that's about it for now. Boring post, I suppose. All that wine last night has dulled my wit. Will try and write again soon!

= :)

P.S. Aw, thanks, Shelley! Although if you could see me after a day of serious traveling, you might change your mind. :P