It seems every state in the US, and every country that I visit has a wine region. Croatia is no exception, with a big plus. In fact, it is a world class connection, in the person of Miljenko "Mike" Grgic of Napa Valley fame. He left Croatia back in 1954, and became perhaps the most famous winemaker in the world when his 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay won a blind tasting in Paris, aka the Judgment of Paris. He later established Grgic Hills Cellar in (Rutherford) Napa Valley, and is a most respected winemaker. The recent war, 1990-95 for Croatian independence wiped out most of the country's viticulture. But with great weather and geography for wine, Croatia has returned with over 100 indigenous grapes. With numerous microclimates, Vitis vinifera L (the cultivated grapevine) has found the exact ... read more

One of the great joys of visiting a country for the first time is the food. Then maybe the coffee, wine, or native beverages. But food comes first. I don't necessarily have a favorite, since I grew up on a variety of both American, Japanese, and Armenian food. But if I had to pick a few favorites, I would choose Peru, Romania, Japan (of course), Hong Kong, and Hungary. Croatia has a riches of seafood along the coast, and a tradition of meat dishes further inland. I enjoy both, so I want to try a little of everything! Here are a few that I want to try. Black risotto A squid risotto using squid ink to make the black color. Add some seafood like mussels, clams, and other shellfish. They say both your teeth and your ... read more

Known as the sleepy island, Korcula was founded by the ancient Greeks, then became part of the Roman Empire. Eventually, it became part of the Venetian Republic for four centuries. Korcula is quirky Gothic-Renaissance mixed with a strong siesta tradition. They also insist that the great explorer, Marco Polo was born here in 1254. Who am I to argue with the Venetians? The town is also famous for shipbuilding and the traditional Moreska sword dance. Maybe my buddy Paul will demonstrate that for us at dinner tonight? Bottom line, there is little to do here besides taking it easy. Kick back at a cafe, or lounge on the beach! The main town is also called Korcula (kohr-CHEW lah). Since the town claims Marco Polo, though he sailed under the Venetian Republic, and was technically a Venetian, ... read more

My cycling cruise, originally scheduled for October, was pushed to May of this year. And I am hoping Putin's senseless war does not interefere with my plans. If you have not heard of Croatia's Dalmatian coast, it is about time you learn more about it. From Fodor's: If Croatia’s url=https://www.fodors.com/news/photos/wow-croatias-dalmatian-coast-is-the-most-beautiful-shoreline-in-europeDalmatian Coast isn’t already on your travel radar, you’re going to want to add it immediately. Nearby countries like Italy and Greece have long reveled in the spotlight as established European beach destinations; however, Croatia only began attracting tourists after it claimed independence in 1991 following decades of quasi-communist rule. Now, Croatia’s stunning coastline is quickly becoming a European hotspot. Picturesque Islands like url=htt... read more

How about this for an interesting place? Although some tourist destinations have us saying, “It’s a nice place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live there,” you’ll never say, “let’s split,” in Split, Croatia. It’s one of those few destinations you won’t want to leave. Mountains and sea meet, making for breathtaking scenery, and when you cross the Old City Wall Gate, you’re stepping back in time. The lively city on the Dalmatian Coast offers coastal boardwalks stretching into the sparkling Adriatic waters; enough bars, shops, and restaurants to satisfy even the most snobbish of gourmands; and of course Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century Roman monument that forms half of Split’s Old Town. I arrive here the day before I embark on my cycling and cruise of the Dalmatian coast. I think I need to explore ... read more