Dubrovnik

We had a GPS with us that our friend Gyozo loaned us. We named her Zsa -Zsa and she was a great help on our travels - most of the time. We drove the length of Hvar island and took a short ferry ride to the mainland. The trip down the coast was beautiful, reminding us of the California coast with its steep drop-offs into the water. The roads were in great shape and there were no difficulties even crossing into Bosnia and Herzogovina for the 5 km section. The weather had been a mixture but seemed to be clearing as we approached Dubrovnik. Zsa Zsa had accurately led us all the way, but she then plopped us smack dab in the middle of the worst traffic jam I have ever experienced. On top of that, she did not know that the street address of the hotel was a pedestrian street. We inched our way along – drove the wrong way on one way streets – did u-turns in the middle of the road – and generally cussed at the obviously non-existent traffic planners.

The worst was when we were traveling down a two way street only to find that one lane was blocked by parked cars. So there were these lines of cars facing each other in the one open lane. People were getting out of their cars and talking (yelling) and gesticulating at each other and we were at a complete stop. I did this cute u-turn maneuver and a couple of cars were nice enough to back up so I could go back down the hill to yet another massive tie up. At this point, Carol jumped out of the car and found the hotel on foot. She was able to direct us around to the back of the hotel and the parking lot. WHEW, I headed for the bar and cold beer while Kathryn set out to find the ocean (sea) because there was a moment of sun to enjoy.

Carol and I joined Kathryn walking down to the ocean and watched her take her second swim in the Adriatic. After a delightful dinner and a good night's sleep - we were ready to see the famous Old Town area.


This walled city was a real jewel. We did a one hour walking tour with a Croatian guide and then set out to walk around the city on top of the protective wall.


They have a great job of restoring the damaged parts while retaining the ancient flavor of the city. About 70% of the roofs were damaged in the war during the 90's and they have rebuilt them with similar material and amazing speed.



There was lots to see including the feeding of the pigeons. At noon, workers come out and feed the pigeons who are trained to congregate at the market square when the bell strikes 12. I'm not sure that is a great idea, but I must say the birds looked very happy and well-fed.

We found a covered patio restaurant and had lunch while the daily rainstorm came through.


Again, the bad weather did not affect us much at all. I know it may be a surprise to you readers, but Carol and Kathryn found some shopping to do while I got a haircut. Old Town Dubrovnik still is home to about 1000 people so all of the regular services are available. Amazingly, they were not finished with shopping, so I proceeded to a cafe for an afternoon cappuccino and some people watching.