Situated on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia has earned its place among the top twenty sought-after tourist destinations worldwide. This captivating country, with its agricultural prowess and a thriving tourism industry, has become a significant contributor to the global economy. Boasting a population of nearly 800,000, Croatia is a vibrant nation where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modern allure.
When in the capital city, a visit to Bistro Appetit by Chef Marin Rendić is highly recommended. This enchanting local restaurant offers a modern ambiance with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light, providing a captivating view of the verdant veranda. The menu at Bistro Appetit, influenced by Italian cuisine and tailored to the seasons, is a delightful curation of flavors. Each dish, presented with dazzling colors, exudes freshness and a harmonious blend of tastes. Chef Marin’s culinary journey was inspired by his fisherman grandfather, who instilled in him a passion for cooking with simplicity and authenticity, highlighting the natural flavors of fresh ingredients. It is this upbringing that has propelled Marin to become one of the most esteemed chefs in the region.
At Bistro Appetit, fine dining meets a fusion of modern and traditional palates, ensuring that the natural essence of each ingredient is preserved. This culinary approach promises to captivate and satisfy curious travelers with a penchant for gastronomic exploration. Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” boasts a rich history that dates to its foundation by Roman survivors from the ancient city of Epidaurus, which was destroyed in the seventh century. Its allure stems from the breathtaking seafront along the Dalmatian Coast, complemented by the charm and historical significance of the downtown district.
For those seeking panoramic views, the Dubrovnik Cable Car offers a thrilling ascent above the old town, providing a sweeping vista that extends up to thirty miles on a clear day. Additionally, the city’s majestic setting has attracted the attention of popular culture, as several iconic locations in the Old City of Dubrovnik served as filming sites for the renowned television series “Game of Thrones.” Immerse yourself in the enchantment of Dubrovnik, where the harmonious marriage of Chef Marin’s culinary creations and the city’s historical treasures will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your senses and create unforgettable memories.
The prosperity of the city, based on maritime trade, achieves an established level of development, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries, as it became prominent for its wealth and skilled international relations. At the same time, Dubrovnik became a cradle of Croatian literature. Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the oldest and largest national parks in Croatia. was registered on the UNESCO World Heritage list, due to its stupendous and pictorial series of tufa lakes, caves, connected by waterfalls. Each year, over a million visitors come to visit its famous cascade lakes, sixteen altogether, separated by natural dams. These lakes are well known for their distinctive colors, ranging from blue to green to azure, constantly changing due to minerals or sunlight.
Dr Chuck Le and his wife Dr Christine Chung along with their 2 children Chiana and Carlen Le, enjoy traveling and visiting exotic places and venues. While venturing in Italy, they hopped over Croatia to explore the first Slavic country they ever visited. To their delight, Croatia offers plenty of Michelin rated restaurants that can satisfy inquisitor penchants. “It was such a beautiful country,” Christine said. “We wish everyone would have a chance to visit Dubrovnik and ride their cable car. From the top of the hill, you will be mesmerized by the 360 degrees view of the whole city. The clear blue ocean blends into the horizon. It took my breath away!” Dr Le continued, “The Famous Roman emperor Diocletian knew the seaside country was the perfect place to build a palace, back in the fourth century AD, then you know it is the perfect place for your vacation. Of all of Europe, he chose Croatia. And now we know why.”
