Unforgettable Croatia: An Immersive Journey Through Culture, Connection, and Adventure

Croatia is a land of contrasts—where ancient history meets modern vibrancy, and serene natural beauty intertwines with rich cultural traditions. During my recent Croatian Coastal Cruising trip from Dubrovnik to Split with one of my preferred suppliers, Intrepid, we crisscrossed its coastal towns and historic cities and immersed ourselves in unforgettable experiences that went beyond the typical tourist attractions. From the stone streets of Dubrovnik to the lavender-scented hills of Hvar, this trip was about more than just sightseeing; it was a chance to connect with local culture, savor the slow pace of Mediterranean life, and build lasting memories with new friends. Each stop revealed a different side of Croatia, a country that continues to preserve its authenticity even as it welcomes the world. Read on to relive the magic of our journey and discover why Croatia should be on every traveler’s list.

We began our journey in Dubrovnik, and it was impossible not to feel the weight of history in the ancient, stone-laden streets. The grandeur of Old Town feels like stepping into a living museum, where time seems to pause amidst the towering walls, fortified in the Middle Ages. The warm golden hues of the city during sunset cast a magical glow, but it wasn’t just the cityscape that captivated us—it was the energy, the stories embedded in each stone. It was the soul of the place that resonated.

We boarded our 35-passenger yacht and spent an evening getting to know the other guests, our Tour Leaders, and the crew before setting sail for Korčula; a place that possesses an unexpected enchantment. We found ourselves wandering through narrow corridors, illuminated by lanterns and moonlight, serenaded by the harmonies of klapa music, an ancient tradition of a cappella singing echoing against the stone walls. It was as though the entire island was singing with us, a quiet, soulful melody of life’s simpler, shared moments.

In Opuzen, a peaceful river cruise under an almost full moon had us gliding on waters as black and smooth as silk. Time seemed to stretch in the stillness, the night holding its breath in reverence of the beauty surrounding us. By the time we returned from dinner, the serenity of the night had imprinted itself into our memories.

Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina was a journey of reflection and appreciation. Meeting local artisans who lived through the Bosnian War of the 90s made it clear that art is often a symbol of resilience. True to form, I went in with profound respect for their craft. I encourage every traveler to seek out the artists, to connect through a shared appreciation of their art and please - whatever you do - do not barter or ask them to discount the fruits of their labor.

Show a small, yet meaningful gesture of solidarity.

We capped off the day in Trpanj, where an evening stroll along the water provided a moment of deep gratitude for life's beauty, echoing the peace found along Croatia’s coasts.

The island of Hvar, known for its lavender fields, embraced us with food, wine, and self-care products lovingly made by a small wife-husband team. The best part of Hvar was our evening in Stari Grad, culminating in a dinner shared with old and new friends. There’s something powerful about connection over good food and humor—bonds are formed that no itinerary can ever predict.

And then there was Split; its rain an unexpected companion and one of those impromptu, unforgettable, magical nights.

Dinner with friends from the yacht felt cozy and intimate, with fantastic music permeating the night from a one-man band (and some singing along by our gleeful group). A late night walk passing under the West and East Gates of Diocletian's Palace and Gradska tržnica (the Green Market) in mist that curled around us as we walked, carefree and buzzed with the enchanting hold of Split, a little unsteady among the slick stones laid 1,700 years ago but completely at ease in the moment. There was something magical and completely wonderful about being in the rain-soaked streets of Split—and the companionship that made the city feel alive with possibility.

Our last day with Intrepid introduced us to nature’s grandeur in Krka National Park, where waterfalls crashed into serenity, and our hike allowed us to slow down and admire the raw, untouched beauty of Croatia’s landscapes.

The cherry on top of our journey was Trogir.

This UNESCO-protected town stole my heart with its perfect mix of history, culture, and undeniable charm. Every alleyway, every stone seemed to whisper tales of old, wrapping me in its mystery and reminding me how incredible each of the places we visited on this trip was.

And the heroes of the story...

Our experience in Croatia wouldn’t have been the same without the incredible leadership and expertise of our Intrepid Tour Leaders. They curated every detail with such care, creating a journey that was as seamless as it was unforgettable. From offering fantastic recommendations for local dining, drinks, and coffee spots to sharing insights into the must-see sights, they ensured we had authentic, enriching experiences at every stop. Their suggestions, even for practical things like where to do laundry, showed their commitment to making us feel at home. Beyond logistics, they fostered a sense of community among our group, turning a collection of travelers into a close-knit community by the end of the trip. Their passion for travel, local culture, and bringing people together perfectly reflects Intrepid's core mission to create life-changing experiences. We couldn’t have asked for better Tour Leaders who showed us why Intrepid has earned a coveted spot as a Virtuoso Preferred Supplier.

This itinerary was more than just ticking off beautiful places; it was a lesson in the power of curiosity and connection. Croatia offered its heart to us, and for those willing to ask more questions and dive deeper, it’s a country that gives generously in return.

This trip to Croatia felt like a celebration of life itself—a beautiful reminder that it’s the people we share these moments with that make them truly memorable.

Let’s get you to Croatia. Schedule a call and ‘go there’.

Ways To Connect

1. Join my private Facebook Group exclusive to Both Worlds Travelers

2. Follow me on Facebook

3. Connect on LinkedIn

About Us

Both Worlds Travel is a boutique Travel Agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina USA that provides thoughtfully curated, highly elevated travel experiences for affluent travelers. Owner Angie Brandt is an expert at crafting tailor-made itineraries and specializes in small ship cruises and adventure travel.

Missed Opportunities in Croatia: How Curiosity Expands Your World

I started Both Worlds Travel with the belief that travel can and should be more than just sightseeing—it should be about meaningful experiences and genuine connections. To me, the magic of travel lies in immersing yourself in a destination: engaging with its people, tasting its foods, and learning its traditions and history. I’m talking about shared human experience. This philosophy has always been at the core of what I aim to experience personally with those I meet along the way: a chance for both worlds to experience travel, together, hence 'Both Worlds Travel'.

Yet on my recent trip to Croatia, I missed the mark.

But first, how I ended up in Croatia is a story of its own. I’ll be brief(ish).

As a woman running a successful, US-based luxury travel agency and mother to two teenagers, life is demanding, time is short, and I often feel I’m a lackluster, muted version of the dynamic woman I once was. While my successes are wonderful, I know I can be better, do more, and leave a brighter, more meaningful, and indelible mark by prioritizing self-care and rekindling my ambitious go-getter nature. I knew I was not alone; other powerhouse women were (and are) in the same boat. We simply need a nudge to right the ship.

Enter my passion project: Ambitious Women Travel, a way for me to bring vibrant, intentional women together, to help them unplug from life’s demands and fuel the flames of their ambitions so they could return home and crush their goals – and maybe get a taste of who they used to be before everything else got in the way.

My first trip offering had to be a good one. I needed a destination that would not just appeal to these women but convince them that taking 8+ days away from work and family wasn’t just a good idea, it was a necessity.

Enter a small ship ‘yachting experience’ in Croatia from Dubrovnik to Split with many staggeringly beautiful stops along the way. This was the perfect trip for my group, and we were all in, except… I lost focus on my unquenchable curiosity and voracious hunger for connection amidst all the working parts of planning a hosted group journey.

I went in without educating myself on Croatia’s complex and rich history.

I forgot to be curious.

In doing so, I missed out on opportunities to connect more deeply with the locals and the cultural nuances that make Croatia so dynamic. I missed out on chances to truly experience all that Croatia has to offer. By not preparing myself to appreciate Croatia’s unique cultural identity, I realized I wasn’t fully present in the experience. It was a humbling reminder that, even as a travel professional, there’s always more to learn—and that every destination, especially one as historically layered as Croatia, deserves the respect of being understood before being explored.

Here are the things I wish I had taken the time to think about before going to Croatia.

A Condensed History of Croatia

Croatia’s history is long and complex, shaped by its geographical position between Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by various powers, including the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. In the Middle Ages, Croatia formed a union with Hungary and later fell under Habsburg rule as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. After World War I, it became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and remained in communist Yugoslavia until declaring independence in 1991, sparking the Croatian War of Independence. Since achieving sovereignty, Croatia has focused on rebuilding its economy, infrastructure, and identity, and in 2013, it became the newest member of the European Union.

What's new since EU?

Since joining the European Union, Croatia has undergone significant economic, social, and infrastructural transformations. EU membership has opened up new markets and investment opportunities, resulting in improved infrastructure, especially in transport and (yes!) tourism. The economy has become more integrated into the European single market, attracting foreign investments and reducing unemployment. Politically, Croatia has had a voice in shaping EU policies while benefiting from funding for development projects. Despite these shifts, Croatia has maintained its strong national identity and cultural heritage, blending modernity with tradition.

Cultural exchange is there for those who seek it.

Despite the changes brought by EU membership and modernization, much of Croatia’s cultural values and traditions remain deeply rooted. What that means for curiosity-driven travelers is an opportunity to get to know someone whose life experiences are ripe with depth and perspective. The many layers of Croatia’s learned and shared culture and customs are fascinating, and

Croatia is an untouched gem. I was not curious enough.

Americans have set ways when it comes to bucket list destinations, and we remain one of the top contributors to global travel spending. Many popular destinations adapt to meet the preferences, tastes, and demands of the US market shaping local tourism experiences to be more aligned with American expectations and comforts.

Croatia has yet to dull down its natural edges to appease the mass market American tourists’ indiscriminate palate, leaving its character and soul intact. It’s a spectacularly wonderful gift for travelers who are ready for it.

I might not have fully prepared myself for it, but Croatia’s heart and soul were unwaveringly present. The soul-crushing beauty of Croatia, the richness and depth of her people, and the realization that I squandered an opportunity to go deeper resulted in unfathomable regret as I flew home, watching the sun rise over the heart of the Dalmatian Coast.

Go there, stay curious.

In a world where so much is readily packaged and presented for us, the true magic of travel comes when we step out of that comfort zone and embrace curiosity. It's not just about seeing new places but about connecting deeply—with the people, the culture, and even ourselves. I learned the hard way that missing out on this connection can lead to regret. But for those of us who seek growth and understanding, there's always a way forward.

So, I encourage you: Be curious. Ask questions. Engage with intention.

Whether you're planning your next trip or reflecting on past ones, commit to traveling in a meaningful way. There’s a bigger world out there waiting to be discovered—and it’s never too late to start. I’m here and ready to help you discover the enriching, transformative power of travel in Croatia. Go there.

Ways To Connect

1. Join my private Facebook Group exclusive to Both Worlds Travelers

2. Follow me on Facebook

3. Connect on LinkedIn

About Us

Both Worlds Travel is a boutique Travel Agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina USA that provides thoughtfully curated, highly elevated travel experiences for affluent travelers. Owner Angie Brandt is an expert at crafting tailor-made itineraries and specializes in small ship cruises and adventure travel.

A Moment of Rediscovery: I Found Myself Again in Croatia

I’m back from the trip of a lifetime in Croatia where we embarked on our very first Ambitious Women Travel group vacation, and

I don't know the last time I felt so alive.

I started Ambitious Women Travel because I realized I'm not the only one who has been burning the candle at both ends, forgetting to nurture myself, and having no idea when the last time was that I laughed so hard that my face hurt (outside of when I travel, that is).

We live in a world that demands more of us each day, and with the responsibilities we carry, it’s easy to lose touch with the vibrant, ambitious version of ourselves — the women we once were before we took on the world and became everything to everyone else. So often, we get caught up in the routine, filling our lives with endless to-do lists, only to realize that somewhere along the way, we’ve lost the connection to ourselves. The joyful, spontaneous, fun-making, smiling, laughing, effervescent, FEELING woman we were has become a flat, muted version of our true self.

This is about remembering what it feels like to be fully alive; to be intentional about getting back to who we REALLY are at our core.

I travel extensively for work, and I notice that the laughter comes easier, a calming quality envelops me, a fiery passion for exploration and discovery emblazons me, and a lighter-natured Angie emerges when I travel. I wanted other women to experience this exhilarating, empowering feeling, and I knew that traveling with like-minded women could deepen the experience and prolong the impact of a trip. Creating a group for ambitious women travelers would foster a sense of accountability to ourselves.

I needed to create a sisterhood of badass women.

Curating the first trip was a little tricky. I needed a destination that would draw the women away from work and their families, one that maybe wasn’t on their radar or family vacation bucket list, one that would be easy to get to, with relatively quick travel, and something that would appeal to many of us. The trip had to offer fun, sun, and sand, and it had to have an incomparable wow factor.

Croatia understood the assignment.

Croatia is a destination that invites you to slow down and embrace the present, much like our own journey to balance ambition and self-care. I worked with a preferred supplier partner to offer a small yacht experience along the Dalmatian Coast. We began in Dubrovnik and ended in Split with some jaw-dropping stops along the way.

The freeing feeling of jumping off the yacht into the salty waters of the Adriatic Sea, the moonlit dinners where we howled with laughter until our whole bodies hurt, the nighttime strolls through picturesque villages that gave way to our deep conversations about how we should be living our life with the good things: the things that make us truly remarkable, the experiences that energize and inspire us, the things that fuel our flames and make us happier, healthier, and more successful in both our personal and professional lives.

Croatia delivered just what was needed to feel alive, connected with our true selves, happy, carefree (if just for a moment), and a serious dose of wow moments exploring her coastal towns.

You deserve this.

It wasn’t hard to embrace the slow down and to settle back into who we are at our core:

growth oriented, curious women who are intentional about how we want to love our life and nurture our ambitious spirit.

Taking care of our well-being and reigniting our inner fire isn’t selfish—it’s a necessity. Ambitious Women Travel is more than just a getaway; it’s a commitment to ourselves, a chance to break free from the grind, and to reconnect with the bold, powerful woman who knows no limits but has put herself in a box. It’s time to let her out!

Join my Ambitious Women Travel Group and find your tribe.

Ways To Connect

1. Sign up for my Ambitious Women Travel Group Newsletter to be the first to hear about my specially-curated trips

2. Join my private Facebook Group

3. Follow me on Facebook

4. Connect on LinkedIn

About Us

Both Worlds Travel is a boutique Travel Agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina USA that provides thoughtfully curated, highly elevated travel experiences for affluent travelers. Owner Angie Brandt is an expert at crafting tailor-made itineraries and specializes in small ship cruises and adventure travel.