Croatia Archives - Sophisticated Travel

Cruise or Villa? Why Upscale Travelers Are Choosing Both

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond For years, upscale travelers have found themselves at a crossroads: Should they book an elegant, all-inclusive cruise that whisks them from port to port in style? Or settle into a secluded private villa where time stretches leisurely and indulgence feels intensely personal? But in 2025, discerning vacationers are no longer forced to choose. Increasingly, they’re saying yes to both — combining the pampered convenience of cruising with the privacy and immersion of a villa stay. The trend isn’t just about stacking two vacations together. It’s about crafting an experience where the whole ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-07-02T12:29:42-04:00July 7th, 2025|

Mediterranean Mosaics: Coastal Towns Where Time Stands Still

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond There’s a moment that happens somewhere between stepping off a cobbled dock and inhaling your first breath of salt air in an unfamiliar place. The breeze carries traces of olive wood and sea foam. The sun kisses stone buildings that haven’t changed in centuries. And suddenly, your pace slows. Your shoulders drop. You remember how it feels to be present. This is the Mediterranean that’s not in the headlines or the cruise brochures. This is the Mediterranean of whispered histories, hand-painted tiles, and windowsill geraniums. Where old fishermen still mend nets in ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-05-17T13:03:38-04:00May 15th, 2025|

Discover the Dalmatian Coast: A Mediterranean Gem

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond The Dalmatian Coast, stretching along the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, is a breathtaking region that combines history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Known for its medieval cities, stunning islands, and crystal-clear waters, Dalmatia has long been a favorite destination for European travelers. However, beyond its well-known highlights like Dubrovnik and Split, this coastal paradise holds many hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a serene beach escape, the Dalmatian Coast has something for everyone. Why Visit the ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-02-17T15:04:16-05:00March 2nd, 2025|

Kotor, Montenegro: The Hidden Gem of the Adriatic – Literally

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond While many travelers flock to Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast or the Greek islands for their Mediterranean adventures, few have discovered the medieval magic of Kotor, Montenegro. Nestled along the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, this UNESCO-listed town offers a stunning blend of history, dramatic landscapes, and authentic local charm. We visited it on a cool October evening on an Azamara cruise. The entire city wall was light up, high up the mountain. It was spectacular. If you’re looking for a place that delivers the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, the charm of Dubrovnik, and ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-02-17T15:18:23-05:00February 22nd, 2025|

Navigating Change: Nice, France Bans Large Cruise Ships

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond You Navigating Change: Nice, France Bans Large Cruise Ships As the world’s most iconic destinations grapple with the effects of overtourism, the beautiful city of Nice, France, has taken a bold step. Effective July 1, 2025, Nice will ban cruise ships with more than 900 passengers from docking at its port and the nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer. This decision reflects a growing trend among municipalities seeking to preserve their cultural integrity and environmental sustainability while still catering to the tourism industry that fuels local economies. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the rationale ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-02-03T13:36:15-05:00February 3rd, 2025|

Stari Grad Croatia – A step back in time

One of the many joys of cruising is visiting ports I’ve never been to before and discovering incredible places I’d never knew existed. This happened on one of our Azamara cruises out of Venice which included a port stop in Hvar, Croatia. Hvar itself is very interesting, and I’ll write about it in a later post. But what amazed us and captured our hearts was Stari Grad, Croatia. It is a place that should not be missed if you like history and architecture. AN IDYLLIC LOCATION Stari Grad is about a scenic 30-minute drive from Hvar (which is located ......

By Brian Raymond|2024-02-02T13:38:07-05:00August 8th, 2019|