Travel Russia Today

I was fortunate to be traveling down the southern coast of Croatia last week between Split and Dubrovnik. The main road runs parallel to the coast with its dramatic cliffs dropping down to the Adriatic Sea below. The drive normally takes about four hours but I highly recommend taking a detour, if time allows.

About half way down there is a town just to the east, Narona. Here you will find a fantastic museum of the former ancient city ruled by the Romans in the 2nd century BC. The museum is built over the exact site of the excavations. A temple was discovered in 1995 which included 12 statues. Many other artifacts have also been recovered from the site. You walk over metal grids at times to look down into the original dwellings. Only about five percent of the site has been unearthed. The remaining 95 percent is still covered by homes of residents not ready to pack up their bags!

Next door is a charming little restaurant with a wood burning oven turning out delicious breads and slow cooked meats. Be sure to try the homemade walnut brandy; it will surely give a jolt if you are feeling sluggish after your meal.

As I continue down the coast I was surprised to discover I would have to go through Bosnia to reach Dubrovnik. Prices are much cheaper in Bosnia, so the be sure to make a stop at the market along the way to stock up on wine and chocolates.