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from the grey UK to sunny Dubrovnik

Writer's picture: VIBE Croatia VIBE Croatia

Life's journey often unfolds in unexpected ways, and for me, the decision to move from the rainy UK to the radiant sunshine of Dubrovnik in 2020 was one such serendipitous turn. What began as a spontaneous escape from the uncertainties of lockdown became a transformative experience that led me to not only find a home but also to create a fulfilling life fuelled by my passion for travel.



How it all Began:

Having been grounded from flying due to covid (I was a flight attendant for12yrs) the travel bug was rearing its inquisitive head, as usual, so I found an exciting opportunity to work on a yacht in Italy. The adventure was filled with breathtaking coastal views and the thrill of navigating the Mediterranean waters. But some 6 months later, the contract ended and the prospect of returning home to the UK amid lockdown restrictions wasn't particularly appealing.

This is when fate or destiny intervened.

As I was exploring the beautiful beaches of Sorrento, I crossed paths with a lovely couple who had just returned from a holiday in Croatia. Captivated by their stories and inspired by the stunning pictures they shared from their travels along the Dalmatian coast, I decided to follow their recommendation and spontaneously booked a ferry ticket from Bari to Dubrovnik.

Little did I know, this impulsive decision would lead to a life-changing experience and a newfound love for the radiant charm of Croatia.



Waking up in Dubrovnik:

I'll never forget the feeling of waking up after a 9hr journey, leaving my little cabin, standing on the ferry dock in the blissful sunshine and seeing the stunning coastline of Dubrovnik as we pulled into Gruz port.

The moment I disembarked, I was met by such friendly, warm people – Ivan, the kind taxi driver who helped with my cases, Maria, the lady who welcomed me into her rental home and a travel agent who invited me along with friends to the local beach bar, and it was only my first day!

Day 2, I began wandering around the cobbled streets of the old town, feeling the buzz of people lunching in the sunshine, watching the boats pulling into the old port and walking around the magical city walls - I fell absolutely in love and knew there and then that I was going to stay.


A Whole New Life:

Upon settling in Dubrovnik, reality set in. It's easy to say you want to stay in a beautiful place (I'm sure many of you have said you never want to leave when you're in heaven on holiday!) But how would I actually build a life in this enchanting city, what would I do for work, how would I survive?

The warmth of the people and the sense of belonging, however, fuelled my determination to make this place my home. Drawing from my 12 years of experience as a flight attendant and yacht stewardess, I realised that my true passion lay in travel and what better place to be....


Home Sweet Home:

Dubrovnik had a way of making me feel at home in a way I hadn't experienced before. The captivating blend of history, culture, and the warmth of the locals created a sense of belonging that resonated deep within me. It was in this embrace that I discovered my calling – to share the beauty and authenticity of Croatia with others.


Building My Dream:

This is where Vibe Croatia was born. I founded my consultancy, leveraging my knowledge from both the skies and the seas to curate experiences that went beyond the surface-level tourist attractions.



Personalised Tours for Solo Travellers:

Recognising the increasing desire for authentic travel experiences, I now personally host small group tours for solo travellers. These intimate gatherings allow me to share my passion for Croatia, ensuring that every traveller gets a personalised and immersive experience.

From hidden gems within the old town to

off-the-beaten-path destinations along the Dalmatian coast, my tours aim to unveil the true essence of this captivating country.



Custom Itineraries Tailored Especially For You:

In addition to group tours, my consultancy specialises in crafting custom itineraries for those seeking a more personalised adventure. Drawing on my extensive travel background, I work directly with clients to design journeys that align with their interests, whether it be exploring historic sites, indulging in local cuisine, or discovering the natural beauty of the Croatian landscapes.


Unveiling the Authentic Side of Croatia:

My goal is to help people see the authentic side of Croatia, beyond the tourist traps. Through genuine connections with locals, immersive cultural experiences, and exploration of lesser-known gems, I strive to create memories that linger long after the journey concludes. It's not just about visiting a place; it's about experiencing the heartbeat of a destination.



Sharing The Magic...

So...what began as a spontaneous escape from the UK, led to a profound transformation, turning Dubrovnik into a place I now call home. The decision to start a consultancy and personally host small group tours for solo travellers was born out of a desire to share the magic of Croatia. I aim to open doors to the true, authentic soul of this remarkable country, turning every journey into a meaningful and unforgettable adventure that I hope I can share with each of you one day soon :)



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