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A Guide to Hvar Town in Hvar, Croatia

6/7/2022

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Where is Hvar?

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Hvar is an Island on the Adriatic coast of Croatia. It is about 33 miles from Split, or an hour and ten minute ferry ride. 

​For the purpose of this article, we are going to specifically talk about Hvar's main town, Hvar Town. 

How to get to Hvar

If you are traveling to Hvar, you will first need to get to Split, either by airport or by ferry. From Split you can get a ferry or catamaran to Hvar. During season ferries run several times a day but you may want to consider booking in advance because they can fill up. 

There are multiple ferry lines that run to Hvar and you can find that information here. 

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You can also simply walk down to the port and purchase a ticket at the booth. 

At the time of this writing, a ticket to Hvar was 110 Kuna and the return ticket was 120 Kuna, about $15 - $16 USD each way. 
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Best time to visit Hvar

Season on the coast of Croatia runs from about June through August. During this time it is extremely busy with tourists. 

The advantage to this is that everything is open and it assuredly warm enough to swim. The disadvantage is it can be HOT, expensive and tourists, lots of them. 

I went at the beginning of June and Hvar Town wasn't bad for crowds. Everything was open accommodations were easy to find and pretty affordable. It was uncharacteristically hot for this time of year and the water was a bit brisk. 

All in all, I would return at this time of year because it was warm enough to enjoy the ocean while not being overly crowded. 

Croatia does not have warm weather year round. It starts to become tolerable beach weather in about May and will stay that way through mid September or so. 
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Is Hvar safe?

In general Croatia is extremely safe. As a solo, female traveler, I felt safe in Hvar Town. 

Obviously exercise normal precautions. Pick pocketing is common in Europe and, like anywhere, do not leave your drinks unattended. 

Where to stay in Hvar Town?

Hvar Town is quite small and most any of the options you will find, whether you are looking for an Airbnb or a hotel, will be convenient to the town square. 

There are a lot of cute airbnb apartments in town and I personally stayed in one of them. There are also some extremely nice resort options, all right around the square or on the water, if you want something with easy swimming access. 

If you are planning on staying for quite a while, consider booking something short term and then searching for an apartment when you arrive. You will likely get better prices that way. 

The airbnb I stayed in, in early June, was only $66 USD per night. When I checked the prices of a nice, beach side resort, it was $177/night. As you can see, Hvar Town is still quite affordable, however these prices may rise later in the season.
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What to do in Hvar Town?

Hvar Town is small but it's packed with things to do. 

Water activities: This is the most obvious one. It is an island, after all! Croatia is known for having some of the cleanest water in the world and this is obvious the moment you step foot on the island. You can see straight down to the bottom of the water and it is gorgeous. 

Swimming locations are plentiful, as are other water activities, like boat excursions and scuba diving. 

A word of warning: sea urchins abound in the crystal clear waters of Croatia and you do not want to step on one. Not only does it hurt but it runs the risk of getting infected. They are easy to spot, as the water is so clear. But you should either get a pair of water shoes, like these, or, as one of the locals told me, just get in the water where it is deep and don't put your feet on the bottom. :) 
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Night life: Full disclosure, I am not a night life person, so I do not speak from experience here. That said, Hvar Town has a lively night life scene. With plenty of bars to get a drink and an island theme of "hedonism", you are sure to have a good time. 
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Cafe's and restaurants: 
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History: As with most of Europe, there is much history to explore in Hvar. 

My favorite is the fortress that sits above the Island, watching over it. 
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The climb up looks more daunting that it is and is actually quite a nice walk. The entrance fee was about 7 euro and it well worth it for the view alone. ​

Once in the fort there's much to explore, including artifacts and a jail. 

There is also a cafe where you can sit and enjoy a drink or some food. 

I recommend going at the end of the day and catching sunset and the absolutely breathtaking view of Hvar Town. 

Should you go to Hvar Town?

In one word: YES. 

It's beautiful, safe and the people are welcoming and hospitable. There is something really magical about Hvar and absolutely worth visiting. 

Incase you needed, more convincing, here's some of the photos I took while I was there: 
Happy travels!! 
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What to wear in Italy this summer

6/1/2022

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Italians are known for their effortless and put together style. They are also known for flocking to the sea side when temperatures heat up. 

If you are lucky enough to do the same, here's what you should plan on wearing
(The following post contains affiliate links. If you click on the link and buy something, this blog receives a small commission.) ​

1. Flowy dresses

A cute, flowy dress is an absolute summer staple in Italy. 

Here are three that will have you feeling beautiful, stylish and comfortable in the Italian heat. 
This baby blue number is giving feminine, effortless beach vibes. Pair it with a white sneaker or sandal, some sunglasses and a protective hat. 

Those heels, however, are an American touch. You can leave your heels at home, lest you want to break your ankle on Italian cobblestone. (Don't say I didn't warn ya.) 

​You can find this dress here.
For a dress that can be thrown over a swimsuit or worn over aperitivo, try this flirty number. 
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​You can find this gorgeous number here.
Last but not least is my personal favorite. This universally flattering dress comes in so many different colors and patterns. But best of all, it's an incredibly breathable and comfortable fabric that can easily take you from day to night and, maybe best of all, always photographs well. 

Pair with Birkenstocks, sunglasses and a beach tote for that effortless, Italian beach vibe.

You can find this one and many other colors and patterns here. 

2. Shorts

Stylish, comfortable and cool can be a tall order but these shorts fit the bill. You can find them here. 
Linen is a must for surviving a Mediterranean summer and these will have you feeling pulled together and not overheated. 

Find them here. 

3. Tops

In my humble opinion, a white linen button down is an absolute must have summer staple. Wear it with shorts, as a swim suit cover up or over a dress to protect your shoulders. It's effortless, chic, practical and goes with literally everything. 

​You can findthis one here. 
For tops, cool and neutral will go a long way. I prefer tops that I can mix and match as well as tops that will add a little life to a pair of shorts. This flowy, feminine tank top in apricot will do just that. 

You can find this top here. 

4. Pants

Once again, you can not go wrong with linen. These pants are both going to keep you cool and chic. 

You can find them here. 
This cropped pant will also keep you nice and cool while still maintaining that Italian effortless style. 

You can find them here.

5. Shoes

Italians may be known for their style but they are also known for their cobblestone streets and the almost endless walking they do. 

Because of this, a sturdy and comfortable shoe is a must. Thankfully Birkenstocks are all the rage throughout Europe this summer. And, while flip flops are only worn at the beach, these Birkenstocks will take you everywhere. 

Grab a neutral color that goes with everything and your feet and wardrobe will thank you. 
The white sneaker is an absolute Italian staple. Contrary to advice of old that told us that "Europeans don't wear sneakers". I am here to tell you they absolutely do. A pair of white sneakers is as basic and essential as a white t-shirt or oversized trench coat. 

My personal favorite are this pair by Lacoste simply because I find them to be softer, easier to break in and less likely to give me blisters. I'm also not a fan of a chunky shoe. 

You can find these here. 

6. Swim wear

Of course, you will absolutely need a few cute swimsuits. This is a great, classic option. 

​You can find it here. 
For something a little sexier, try this one piece by Cupshe. 

​You canfind it here. 
If you're set on a bikini, I'm a fan of this green number. This green is one of those colors that looks fabulous on tan and pale skin alike. 

You canfind it here. 

6. Accessories

A cross body bag is a must for travel. Carry it in front of you and you are less likely to get pick pocketed. This woven style is always a classic.

​You canfind it here. 
I also like this leather option in a neutral, tan color. 

You can find it here. 
Here is an anti-theft option, if your concern is more for safety than style. 

You canfind it here. 
Lastly, don't forget a pair of sunglasses. This retro tortoise pair are a chic, affordable option. 

You can find them here.
If you want something a little more classic, nothing gives "leave me alone, I'm on vacation" quite like an oversized pair of black sunglasses. 

You can find this coach pair here. 
In Italy a scarf is essential. You are required to cover your shoulders when entering churches and churches in Italy are so beautiful that it would be an absolute shame to miss out on account of uncovered shoulders. I personally like this light, silk option. It comes in many different colors and patterns. 

You canfind it here. 
Lastly, you'll want a hat to protect your skin from that brutal Mediterranean sun. Something like this is chic and does the job. 

​You can find it here. 
And there you have it! A complete list of what I suggest you pack with you on your Italian beach vacation. 

​Ciao, ragazzi! 
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Budget Friendly Food in Isla Mujeres

10/30/2021

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Isla Mujeres is one of my favorite places in Mexico. That said, it does not benefit from the low prices that most of Mexico does because it is a prime tourist destination. You can easily spend $20 on a meal here and it won’t even be authentic Mexican. 

Don’t let this stop you from coming, however. There are places you can eat that are authentic and/or budget friendly.
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Here are my top three. 

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The Ultimate Guide to Street Food in Mexico

10/29/2021

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If you went to Mexico and didn’t eat the street food, did you really go to Mexico?
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In my opinion, the answer to that question is an emphatic and resounding “no”. 

At the heart of every cultural experience is it’s street food, and Mexico is no different. 

That said, there are some concerns to eating street food, mainly getting sick, so I’ve put together a guild that will help you enjoy the food and hopefully not find yourself praying to the porcelain gods. 

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A Guide to Isla Mujeres, Mexico

10/25/2021

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I have to be honest with you and tell you that I am not a Cancun person. To me, Cancun is a bit too crazy and a bit too touristy for me. 
That said, for Americans, it’s a relatively easy and inexpensive destination. Which is what makes Isla Mujeres, a tiny island just off the coast of Cancun, such an appealing vacation spot.

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A Guide To Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

10/21/2021

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Where is Lake Atitlan, Guatemala?
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Nestled in the central, west-ish part of Guatemala is, what could easily and probably accurately be called, the most beautiful lake in the world. 
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That’s no joke or exaggeration. And while I have not been to every lake in the world, it’s hard to imagine a place more beautiful than Lake Atitlan, Guatemala. Keep scrolling to see what I mean.

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The Ultimate Guide To Namibia

10/16/2021

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Namib Desert, Namibia
This is a 5 day trip through Namibia. If I did it again, I would add a few more days so that we could slow down and really soak it all in. I would also add in a stop at Epupa Falls.
That said, Namibia is, to this day, my favorite place I have ever been. It is a stunning landscape that is like no other. Absolutely a destination I will never, ever forget. ​

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When in Rome... for 8 hours

10/16/2021

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Pantheon Rome, Italy
In case you’ve ever wondered if a long layover in Rome is worth it, I'm here to tell you it is. 

I was in Johannesburg and needed to go home. Instead of flying directly from South Africa back home, it didn’t take me too long to realize I could fly to Greece, stay 5 days and then fly home for the exact same price. 

While searching for flights to Athens, I realized that not only could I do that, but I could pick a flight to Greece with AN EIGHT HOUR LAYOVER IN ROME. ​

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Visiting the Parthenon

10/16/2021

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Visiting the Parthenon in Athens Greece is a bucket list item for many. Here’s a guild to help make it as smooth and easy for you as possible.
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Where is the Parthenon?

The Parthenon is located on a hill in the center of Athens, Greece called The Acropolis. The Acropolis is home to several buildings that have survived since ancient Greece. 

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    JESSICA ROSE GREENWOOD
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    Single mom, travel junkie & romanticizer of life.

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