The Mediterranean offers countless miles of quaint coastline towns, fishing villages, amazing beaches, and incredible gastronomic traditions. While Croatia might not be the first place that comes to mind, it is definitely one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world, and should be added to your bucket list as more and more people discover how alluring and diverse it is!

Luckily, I’ll be able to scratch this one off of my bucket list this summer, so let me take you on a preview of Croatia before I set off to meet with Locals to create some amazing experiences available to you via VoomaGo. I will be traveling from Zagreb in the north and on to Zadar to meet with Neno and his family to cook together. We will explore the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park and check out a few zinfandel wineries along the coast.

Right across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, Croatia is a country that stretches all the way from Slovenia to Montenegro offering one of the most eclectic mixes of cultural heritage left behind by empires, kingdoms, republics that formed throughout the centuries. You’ll recognize Roman, Slavic, Austrian, and Italian influences as you travel through an incredible tapestry of ancient ruins, palaces, castles and a host of family-run taverns where you can taste authentic local fare.

One thing I am especially looking forward to experiencing is the dramatic landscape of the Dinaric Alps that stretch from Italy to Albania bordering the coastline and creating impressive canyons like the Omis canyon south of Split. For those who love an adrenaline rush, the Omis canyon has some of the greatest ziplines in the world, reaching speeds of up to 40 mph. I am also looking forward to meeting Croatians, learning their language and appreciating their culture. From my past interactions with Croatians I know how gifted and hospitable they are, and much like the Italians, they make sure that you are well fed. I am quite sure I will feel right at home.

We’re very excited to be adding Croatia as well as some other new destinations for next year, so if you do not yet have a travel destination in mind, hopefully this post is just the inspiration you needed. Italy and Croatia offer the opportunity to visit two countries in one trip, so you’ll be getting the best of eastern and western Europe all in one. Stunning natural beauty, incredible fresh fish, great swimming, extraordinary beaches, ancient history, and warm, welcoming people await you!

Stay tuned for more stories from Croatia when I return!