Azure Croatia

Croatia to Mallorca

2011-11-14T20:48:00.002+01:00

Hello to all my friends who followed me with Azure Croatia! In April I moved everything plus 3 cats back to Mallorca; a beautiful island in the Mediterranean, and one I know so well since I worked here initially in 1987!!! I am working back with Nash Homes Mallorca a real estate agency specialising in this SW area. I have just started this blog www.nashhomesmallorca.blogspot.com so I do hope you will sign up to follow me, and I will keep you informed of this magical island!

New Adventures Ahead!

2011-04-13T23:02:00.001+02:00

Time to close the Azure Croatia blog. The events of the last month with my mother's passing has made me reassess lots of aspects of my life. New adventures are ahead! Thank you all for taking the time to read my blog and make comments, much appreciated.

Forgive me while I go to England

2011-02-23T22:09:00.000+01:00


image via Slim Paley

I will not be posting for a few weeks, as tomorrow I have to urgently return to England for family matters. I would have gone today but BA do not fly on a Wednesday (though better than a few years ago when there was no BA and no flights out of here in winter). I have to sit tight and hope for the best.

Is it spring yet?

2011-02-22T18:51:00.001+01:00

I found this fabulous photo today via Materialicious, one of my favourite websites. The photographer is Pentti Sammallahti (see here). Born in Finland in 1950 he began photographing at 11 yrs old. The main characters of his photos are always animals.

Dare I say Spring is here?

2011-02-20T20:28:00.003+01:00

I would love to say spring is here as I bought some daffodils at the market yesterday. 20 kuna (2.25 GBP or 2.70 euros) for 5 bunches. Usually I get ripped off there, but as the 5 bunches were last in the bucket, perhaps she wanted to get rid of them. 2 bunches I gave to my friend. It was a gorgeous 19 degree f (66c) day so felt like spring was here. My fig tree looks a bit in hibernation at the moment.

Azure Butterflies

2011-02-19T22:35:00.000+01:00

I would like to dedicate this image from John Derian of Azure Butterflies to my friends who took me out for the fabulous meal last night! Very apt as their property management business is called Butterfly Services.

Fabulous dinner!

2011-02-19T17:16:00.000+01:00

We had a fabulous night out with friends yesterday. First meeting in the best wine bar in Dubrovnik, D'Vino. We sampled a new Plavac red wine which was very good. Owner Sasha, who is Croatian-Australian has a great hideaway in Palmoticeva Street, brimming with wines from all over the world.

A great start to the evening!

Then onto dinner at Lucin Kantun, in a little side street.

Opened in 2010 I was surprised I had not been to this restaurant before, but my friends (French and Croatian) were regulars and eager for me to be delighted! Sitting next to the open kitchen it was great to see the chef prepare the food. Main course was duck, then I just had to have the cheesecake with sugar spun angels hair. The owner (another Australian-Croatian!) offers impeccable service and a truly imaginative menu. Highly recommended both the wine bar and restaurant. Photos - thanks to Tripadvisor

Loving Oka!

2011-02-17T19:28:00.001+01:00

The OKA newsletter arrived in my inbox today - full of lots of inspiration for 2011. I love this beach house collection (see here) using the blue/white stripes and the natural theme. I must look out for a similar rug.

Dining - beach style

The bedroom (with a view like mine!!) uses the wonderful Otomi fabric on the bedcover and headboard. This pattern originates from the indigenous ethnic group inhabiting the plains of Mexico. Although I suspect this cover will be very expensive, I certainly would like to find some similar fabric for this year (perhaps a cushion?).

Map Pictures

2011-02-16T21:34:00.000+01:00

Kara's Wave, 2009, 24 x 36 inches


Fiona's wave, 2006, 48 x 77 inches

I love maps and can get engrossed into an atlas, studying the countries, oceans, islands and continents. These map collages are incredible, created by the talented artist Matthew Cusick, from Dallas, Texas. Source Materialicious.

Superb renovated villa just footsteps from the Old Town

2011-02-15T21:53:00.002+01:00

Yesterday I was asked by friends to view a villa to write the english text for future rental. Wow! I did not expect to see a fabulous 200 year old property, fully renovated and top quality throughout.

Living room with original French, Italian and Austrian antiques

Bedroom with original Biedermeir furniture, Murano glass chandelier

Professional appliances in the kitchen, fully equipped

Gorgeous 100 yr old furniture, replicas of the French style

Windows kept clear of curtains in order to maximise the views and light

The villa at night time has excellent lighting in the grounds and around the Jacuzzi

A French screen sits well with the Swedish Biedermeir bedroom furniture

Spacious bedroom, giving a hint of the contemporary en suite bathroom

Cherry wood suite painted white

Elegant bedroom suite

Villeroy & Boch bathroom suite

Huge gilded mirror at the top of the stairs, made in Germany and given as a gift to the Archbishop of Zagreb.

Attic suite with huge circular bed. Views to die for over the Old Town

Breakfast on the balcony overlooking the sea and the Old Town

Roof top views

Balcony with stunning Adriatic views

Circular bath (echoing the shape of the bed) with ambient lighting, changing according to your mood

The villa and outside terrace for luncheon

Glimpse of the attic bedroom with Villeroy and Boch suite

Jacuzzi with a spectacular view!


200 year old renovated villa with Jacuzzi on the terrace

The villa for six is truly stunning, having taken the best part of 5 years to renovate with local artisans, even the shutters are individually handcrafted. Brimming with gorgeous antiques, many from faraway lands,sitting alongside modern appliances, the villa exudes glamour and classic lines. Located footsteps from the Old Town entrance and the sea, this luxury villa certainly deserves to be at the top of its range.

Azure Stamps

2011-02-09T20:16:00.001+01:00

I have found a great website where you can upload your own photos to create dozens of scenes, such as here - stamps. A lot of fun to play around with, especially with Valentines Day coming up - see link

The Globe is a particular favourite too. You can upload up to 60 photos to create the montage.

Azure New Zealand

2011-02-09T19:29:00.000+01:00

My brother visited New Zealand last year and made a fascinating discovery ...

As well as touring the whole North and South Islands, he of course visited Auckland ...

Just when he was exploring the Sky Tower and the surrounding area of Sky City he was intrigued to discover ...

... this plaque dedicated to Croatians! It reads:

" MEMORIAL SPOMEN PLOCA. Between the years 1890 and 1980 this locality was the gateway and meeting place for many thousands of immigrants from the coastal regions of Croatia. The majority being from the province of Dalmatia. In this locality they had their homes, their shops, boarding houses, restaurants and clubs.

Here they paused briefly before moving on to establish themselves on the Kauri Gumfields, vineyards, orchards, farms, fisheries and quarries of the Auckland province. These streets were central to their social life where they enjoyed the company of family and friends. This was their village, they were a Croatian people, proud of their origins and their Dalmatian heritage. For over 70 years in recent history they shared identity as Yugoslavs.

This memorial plaque, arranged by their descendants, commemorates their presence in this locality. It further commemorates their courage, their relentless toil, their commitment to their families and contribution to the making of New Zealand.

New Zealanders of their kin will remember them with respect and affection for generations to come. This memorial was donated, and place, courtesy of Sky City Ltd, by Fletcher Construction, constructors of Sky City. August 1997."

So, naturally my brother was amazed to find such a plaque about Croatians ... downunder!

Stone Pillow Cushions

2011-02-08T22:04:00.002+01:00

I have had my eye on these for a while so great to see them be promoted more. These fabulous cushions are actually seamless 100% Merino wool and individually colour-coded to look like stones in nature. Sourced via Materialicious and here. A Polish company manufactures them and the prices on the website are in euros see here.

Before & After 1-bedroom, Old Town

2011-02-07T22:49:00.002+01:00

Time for another Before and After! This 32m2 one bedroom apartment is located in the Old Town. We took on this apartment way back in 2004 and have sold it 3 times. From Croatian to Israeli to Australian to another Australian (living in Papua New Guinea!) .... so here we have "before", "during" and "after" photos.

Exterior After

Location within the Old Town walls


The very first time for selling, way back in 2004 (we have sold it 3 times!)

Before

During. This is during the 2nd sale of the property.

Again during the 2nd sale of the propety

After, this is the final sale, after renovation, wow!

This is at the first sale of the property. Love the stone sink!

After. The stone sink has gone (where?), but the renovation is great.

During the 2nd sale of the property, poorly renovated

After the 3rd sale of the property

During the 2nd sale, the owner just put in cheap bed and closet.

After! Wow! Great styling in the bedroom

During the 2nd sale, nothing wow with the shower room

After with the 3rd sale, a proper shower!

The 1st sale of the property, a blind corridor at back of apt

After the 3rd sale, the blind corridor becomes an en suite bathroom

Certainly an intriguing apartment .. and one which can be rented. See here, from 60 euros per night.

My winter sunshine

2011-02-05T15:14:00.003+01:00

I just had to share my 9am pictures with you today, 5th of February and we have 16 degree temperatures which is fabulous for mid winter. Tomorrow is due to be 19 degrees - perhaps time to get the bikini out for the day! Just wish the family were here to enjoy this as the north of England is being lashed with rain and gale force winds.

Where I'd like to be

2011-02-03T19:10:00.000+01:00

Same shot, different time of day. We do have blue skies and sunshine at the moment, alas not too warm to be sunbathing by the pool though. Just put a few islands in front, and a few pine trees and the pool could be in Croatia. It's actually in the Caribbean, see here. photos

Getting ready for the celebrations

2011-02-02T20:39:00.002+01:00

This morning was gorgeous so I took a stroll to the Old Town and took the above photo indicating our blue skies. The flags and trimmings are up on the Stradun ready for tomorrow's celebrations for St. Blaise Day. St. Blaise is the patron Saint of Dubrovnik and his day is celebrated with enthusiasm every February 3rd. There are parades and parties throughout the day and the relics of the Saint are paraded through the town. 1,000s gather to watch the annual spectacle.

These are some photos I took during past years of the special day. Unfortunately tomorrow I won't be able to attend - the office beckons. Fabulous weather in Croatia at the moment!

Villa on the Sea

2011-01-28T22:29:00.000+01:00

A villa for the summer holiday? Here is a fabulous villa to dream about summer, located on the island of Brac. The villa oozes modern comforts and is equipped throughout. Sourced here.

Duelling Cellists Play Michael Jackson

2011-01-27T20:26:00.002+01:00

Just found this on the homepage of American MSN.com. Watching the video I thought the bar interior looked very Croatian, and indeed see that the 2 talented musicians Stjepan Hauser and Dubrovnik-born Luka Sulic are Croatian. The video is a new take on Michael Jackson's Smooth Criminal - Fantastic! More than 2.5 million hits on YouTube so far. Both guys easy on the eye too!

Yes! We do get snow ... sort of

2011-01-26T19:50:00.000+01:00

It is mighty chilly now, with the car temperature reading about 2 degrees C in the mornings. However it's bright and sunny which makes everything gleam. I would not have noticed the snow as I live facing the sea, but a few days ago I had to drive to one of the inland villages, and POW! around the corner saw on the hillside more than just a sprinkling of snow. Looking gorgeous in the sunshine, like the icing on a cake, the hills really stood out against the blue sky.

Dubrovnik v Maldives

2011-01-23T19:57:00.001+01:00

We all have friends who come into our lives again, just at the right moment. Well my German friend Petra who has been living in the Maldives (aka paradise) since 1994 skyped me ... just at the right time as Dubrovnik's cold and wintery weather descended. Just the pick-me-up I needed looking out on our stormy weather. Currently on Kuredu but shortly their own dive base resort will open on the Laamu Atoll - link.

Coastal Dining

2011-01-23T19:31:00.001+01:00

I just love these beige and blue stripes here on the table placemat and napkins, plus the healthy meal of ... green apples! Definitely the coastal look I will try on the terrace when Spring arrives. (no credit found for pic but sourced here)

Ligne Roset

2011-01-20T21:23:00.000+01:00

The company I continue to love is Ligne Roset. Their newsletter dropped into my inbox today with their new 2011 ad campaign and made me smile ... as my husband had seen this sofa style call Confluences, several months ago, and commented that he loved it .... so I was very pleased! Although difficult to get this product in Dalmatia, one day I am sure we will buy something from this quality company. See more here

Wave Break

2011-01-15T18:49:00.000+01:00

We recently had our annual visit to Brighton. New Year's Day was spent enjoying a bracing brisk walk along the promenade and seafront. With the sun out and flat calm sea lapping gently over the pebbly beach, it was a great start to 2011. One of my favourite places to browse is the beachside Kings Road Arches, a collection of small art galleries, quality beach-themed handicrafts and artisan pieces. The stand of cards caught my eye, naturally with colours of azure blues. So many to choose from but I decided upon my first favourite - see above. Called Wave Break. The talented artist is Zorian P. Matthews, click for website. Love his work!

Good Evening Beautiful!

2011-01-14T23:15:00.001+01:00

We just had to have a wonderful sunset today at 4.40pm, considering how the dawn was this morning. To have a January day like this in the depths of winter is magical. I just hope we have many more the same until Spring arrives. A pleasant 14 degrees too. What more could you want? Have a great weekend.

Good Day Beautiful!

2011-01-14T14:28:00.001+01:00

2 o'clock Friday, January 14th 2011 - can the winter weather get better than this? Glorious day overlooking the islands and the flat calm sea.

Kolocep island bathed in afternoon sunshine.

The trees may be bare in the depths of winter, but the surrounding colours are fabulous.

I can feel a great sunset coming on at about 4.30pm.

Good Morning Beautiful!

2011-01-14T14:18:00.000+01:00

I was an early bird this morning getting up at 6.15am, pitch black. The dawn started at 07.00am ... with such colours I was certain it would be a beautiful day!

Cowes, Isle of Wight

2011-01-08T20:14:00.002+01:00

We visited Cowes on the Isle of Wight last week. I haven't been there for 12 years so it was nice to return as it is known as "the sailing capital of the world". However, New Year is a VERY chilly time of the year so not much sailing going on. (photo source)

Just an hour's ferry ride, with the Red Funnel, from Southampton and we reached East Cowes. An intriging chain ferry then hauled us across the other side of the Medina river to West Cowes.

Promotions for the Superyacht Cup in 2012 just prior to the London Olympics.

The world famous photography shop of "Beken of Cowes" was unfortunately closed due to the holidays, but good to see the photo in the window of the large one I have framed here in Croatia of Susanne 1911.
Link for more: www.cowes.co.uk and www.uksa.org

New Year

2011-01-07T18:53:00.000+01:00

As Britain shivers with yet more snow, I am back in Dubrovnik, now into a New Year. 10 degrees is not too bad for January and the sun goes down a little later every day which is great to think that Spring is just around the corner .....

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T19:50:00.001+01:00

(photo Colliers)

From a warm 14 degrees to a chilly minus 5! Landed in Gatwick ok and headed up to Yorkshire. Would be nice if we lived in Buckingham Palace as pictured above (photo Andy Hooper, Daily Mail), alas, ours is a smaller place. To see such snow in London is quite a sight. Delayed posting as lots going on. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I look forward to posting more Croatian delights in 2011. Cheers!

Winning Ticket ... again.

2010-12-18T13:53:00.001+01:00

We had a lovely evening at the Foreign Circle Christmas Party on Wednesday last week for the english speaking expat residents of Dubrovnik. The tombola offered some fabulous prizes, and my number came up! 2 nights B&B in the 5 star Hotel Excelsior. The hotel has enjoyed the presence of guests such as The Queen, Liz Taylor & Richard Burton, Hollywood stars etc. Our zero temperatures outside and flurries of snow made our stay even more enjoyable in the warm spa. I won a similar prize last year with 2 nights B&B at the Hotel Radisson .... think the Foreign Circle may ban me from entering next year.

LottyB in Mustique & now in Croatia

2010-12-10T17:56:00.003+01:00

Beautiful silk sarongs: the originals all hand painted

Gorgeous vibrant colours: perfect photos to look at on this cold December day

Here is Lotty at work on a special commission for the Sandy Lane Hotel, Barbados

Lotty has created new gift boxes for her silk items

Last year I did a post on LottyB, the talented artist based on the gorgeous island of Mustique in the Caribbean. She creates exquisite designs on silk for sarongs, kaftans, dresses, blouses, scarves etc. They are sold in chic hotels and boutiques around the world. I bought a "purple puppy" charmeuse silk blouse a few years ago, shipped from the island which is beautiful. Yesterday Lotty emailed me about her revised website. I was intrigued to read under stockists: Caribbean ... USA ... UK ... and now Croatia!

Gorgeous Adriatic Beach Home

2010-12-03T16:58:00.000+01:00

We are fortunate enough to have friends who own this gorgeous ground floor apartment with amazing Adriatic Sea views. The terrace, remodeled in 2009 uses quality stone sourced locally and is heaven on a summers' evening with the outdoor entertaining and enjoying bbqs.
An ingenious inlaid nautical compass created out of different types of stone creates interest

The creative stone bench called "the cigar smoking corner" is for banishing smokers. However, this is a great corner for viewing the stars (very little light pollution) and looking at the Old Town of Dubrovnik.
The island of Lokrum and the rear of the Old Town.
Fully equipped kitchen leading onto the dining room and overlooking the sea.
The Italian made dining table is made of volcanic stone and took 7 men to bring to the apartment. Showing an underwater scene, the table top needs no coverings at all. The glass tryptic on the wall has been created by talented Niko Cuckovic of BeCraft.
The classic red and white stripe cushions on the furniture gives a beach home feel to the living room.
Open plan living and dining area, all sea facing and capturing the stunning Adriatic views. The little glass table at the bottom of the picture (above) is also a Niko Cuckovic custom special.

Light and airy this 2-bedroom beach home takes full advantage of living by the sea. It is just a pleasant 20 minutes coastal walk to Dubrovnik Old Town too, making it an ideal location for holidays. My friends are selling this apartment (email me) and are confident the new owners will enjoy the light, space and views as they have over the last 6 years.

Taking the Biscuit

2010-12-02T17:57:00.009+01:00

I came across a motoryacht called "Biscuit" launched this summer and the interior grabbed my eye! Aubergine deck chairs! Fabulous. Yacht interiors are as attractive to me as house interiors even more so, as every minute detail has to be thought about.

Sleek and stylish as all Italian-built yachts are, this 29 metre (95') yacht was built by the Filippetti Yard.
The custom made interior has been designed by Milan based Hot Lab Studio with attention to detail throughout. Great music on the website if you click on the link.

The yacht is on two levels and boasts 2 twin staterooms, a VIP suite and a master cabin. There are comfortable crew quarters for 4 crew.

Precious leather flooring

Looking forward to seeing this yacht (perhaps) gracing our Adriatic shores here in Croatia next year.

Adriatic Idyll - Distinctive Fireplace

2010-11-28T21:44:00.003+01:00

Browsing through the Architectural Digest website of designers favourite fireplaces, I was delighted to see this photo again, and in lead position too. It's of the distinctive fireplace in the living room of a renovated 15th century village house on the island of Lopud, one of Dubrovnik's Elafiti Islands and an island I look at every day. I posted this property July last year with more interior photos (click)

Thinking of Summer Sailing

2010-11-27T16:18:00.003+01:00

The week just gone has been a week of HEAVY rains in Dubrovnik. The Old Town turned into Venice and friends as far away as New Zealand emailed me; the news had gone around the world. So, instead of posting miserable pictures of floods, collapsed walls, rocks on main roads and cars in gutters, I thought I would post a happier picture of yachts - a photo taken during a regatta on Cres, an island in the north of Croatia.

From There to Here, 7 Years Ago ...

2010-11-21T22:44:00.011+01:00

7 years ago today we arrived in Dubrovnik from Mallorca, Balearic Islands. Sometimes Dubrovnik feels like an island - bordered by coasts of Bosnia (albeit tiny) and Montenegro.

We started with this in Mallorca ... great little car (one previous lady owner, non smoker)

Then progressed to .... NO! I jest, this is a rental car on the island of Mljet, so cute!

Then progressed to this for our drive across the Continent. This little beast is now happily back in Mallorca, we returned and sold it to an Argentinean family.

One of the many golden sand beaches of Mallorca, this being Playa de Palma at dawn

The same beach in Mallorca during the day, off season. I admit, I still do miss my sandy beaches

The town beach of Dubrovnik, Banja. What a glorious backdrop of the Old Town!

My old drive to work in Palma used to take me past the breathtaking beauty of the impressive Gothic Cathedral along the Paseo Maritimo

Now, when I drive to the supermarket I pass this glorious sight of the Old Town Dubrovnik

Mallorca: Our old apartment building (one of 4 apartments in 4 years! we liked to move ... then)

With a lovely swimming pool and gardens ...

Mallorca: one of our previous apartments with a smidgen of sea view ... and view of the neighbours swimming pool ...

Dubrovnik: where we live now ... er ... no, you didn't think I would show you where I live now did you? Might get the paparazzi ... needless to say we live in a stone house with a red roof ...

Mallorca: My man's former place of work ...

Croatia: my man's former place of work last year. I love blue hulls on yachts ...

Croatia: My man's current place of work .... well over 60 metres ... but currently not in Croatia

Mallorca: The beautiful Puerto Portals marina

Mallorca: The gorgeous Puerto Portals promenade with expensive restaurants ...

Mallorca: another view of the marina with the glorious turquoise sea

Croatia: the ACI marina in Dubrovnik, sleepy little place until summer, when it's full of action. Great restaurant too and not expensive as Mallorca!

Mallorca: our old beach and sunbathing area. The clear waters are stunning

Mallorca: one of my favourite places of Maioris, overlooking the Bay of Palma

Croatia: a deserted cove on the Peljesac Peninsula .... a little piece of heaven

Croatia: My view at dawn .................................. great start to the day when you see this

Croatia: fabulous Adriatic Sea and sunshine

Croatia: Azure Croatia! (NB I did not post a pic of our view in Mallorca, as we did not have a view as such, just onto a neighbours villa ....)

So, 7 years ago today we made the big leap over to Croatia ... lots of great memories of Mallorca of course. Croatia is the longest time ever in one place, since I began my travels in 1987. Just by seeing some of the above photos and reading this blog makes you realise what has captivated me and kept me here for all those years .....

Dubrovnik in the Autumn

2010-11-17T21:10:00.010+01:00

My favourite season is autumn ... and look, right into November the weather has been fantastic (forget the interlude of the storm!). This was Sunday 14th Nov ... incredible calm sea all day and the sunset is to die for.

Dubrovnik from the top of Srd hill looks amazing.
The island of Lokrum at twilight.
The newly reopened cable car taking passengers up the hill in less than 3 minutes.
Would make fabulous wallpaper?
Sunset ... and the islands beyond Dubrovnik. Here we have the peninsula of Lapad, and the islands of Daksa, Kolocep, Lopud, Sipan, Mljet and to the west - Sveti Andrija (St. Andrew).
You can see all the detailing of the fortress when located up on high!
November promises pink and purple sunsets. Hardly a ripple.
Fabulous! No trickery, no filters, just a great photo of nature

Streetlights on in Dubrovnik and on the peninsula of Lapad.
Showing Gruz harbour and the islands beyond.

The last flicker of sunset. Perhaps there was a green flash?

I am honoured to have been given these photos by my colleague Jela, who is a Croatian/Canadian, here from Toronto, a fabulous friend and a great photographer! I can imagine these images being excellent wallpaper one day ... I enjoyed the day on the terrace whereas Jela hiked up the hill to take these photos, right up until darkness! Thank you!

photos J. Begonja

Peeling paint ...

2010-11-17T19:30:00.001+01:00

I found these images from when we sailed Dubrovnik to Split, and cannot remember on which island they were taken. No matter, the colour is gorgeous against the ancient stone.

Queen Elizabeth visits Dubrovnik

2010-11-16T19:31:00.006+01:00

On just her 3rd voyage Cunard's new Queen Elizabeth visited Dubrovnik for the day.
Inching slowly towards the dock, having been in Venice yesterday.
Impressive!!!
Magnificent! Where is my long evening dress to go running up and down those stairways?!
Coming around the corner into Gruz harbour. Dubrovnik's bridge is a handy place to "ship watch". She was an hour late arriving, no matter - they had fog in Venice!

My former QE2 "mates" from over a decade ago, now Captain and Deputy Captain of this magnificent new ship. An honour to have the full tour around, and lunch in the Britannia Grill - fine wine and food. Heaven! A fabulous and memorable day.

A Touch of Turquoise

2010-11-15T21:16:00.005+01:00

Stunning turquoise pool by the coast
Close up of the pool with the island beyond, and a little water taxi chugging along
A few touches of turquoise lifts a modern room, and mirrors the sea outside

Great turquoise chairs for an office
The turquoise accent of this bed cover is gorgeous
A few cushions in turquoise lifts the beige sofa (note the stripe in the curtains)

Good Morning Croatia!

2010-11-14T21:56:00.004+01:00

After our battering storms we have the calm ... a gorgeous Sunday morning, with only a few ripples. The Adriatic stayed like this all day today until sunset. Life is good!

Lillies so uplifting and standing proud in a tall vase! Gorgeous scent and great to see on a Sunday.

November in Dubrovnik

2010-11-07T18:53:00.008+01:00

Can the month get better than this? Photos taken by my colleague yesterday (crazy Ana, Croatian/Australian) who also went swimming! Well why not? With no wind, and hot sunshine, the November day was perfect. *Update: just one day later, here on the 7th, we have big storms brewing. Time to batten down the hatches...

Look at the heart shaped leaf!

Turquoise sea

15th c castle once the refuge of Italian Piero Soderini who was driven into exile by the powerful Medici family.

Gorgeous clear waters of the Adriatic.

Photos AM Popovic

Bye Bye Queen Victoria

2010-11-04T18:43:00.004+01:00

A late photo of Cunard's Queen Victoria as she left port last Friday heading to Venice.

The same day I received an email from the Captain of Cunard's Queen Elizabeth to go onboard for lunch when she visits Dubrovnik 16th of November, so very excited for that!

Across the Border

2010-11-04T18:29:00.006+01:00

I spent the morning in Trebinje today across the border in BiH (Bosnia Herzegovina) a 24km drive inland from Dubrovnik. Last time I was there was 6yrs ago when it was a grim and miserable town, but now the atmosphere had picked up a lot. Shopping centre, renovated houses and offices gave the area a much better feel. Of course the wonderful autumn l weather helped. Leafy squares with locals selling their wares and numerous cafe bars with people sipping coffee enjoying the sunshine.

Shadow Vessel for M/Y Queen K

2010-11-04T18:14:00.005+01:00

The yacht Queen K is still in port here, enjoying our autumnal weather. Our friends dug out some photos taken this summer of the massive support vessel, named "Sputnik". Painted in the same colours as her mother ship she is quite a sight at 60m. Boasting a heli-platform, and holding the numerous tenders, incl. "yacht toys" for the owner the shadow vessel is an impressive if unusual sight. (photos by MAP)

Eating out, again and again

2010-11-02T23:49:00.007+01:00

These couple of days have been a whirl of eating out. First at Orsan*, Gverovic in Zaton, for fabulous fresh fish last night, with a journalist from the UK's Daily Mail. Then today in Arsenal, the Old Town Dubrovnik, again with the journalist for a light lunch. Finally tonight with friends at Orsan*, Dubrovnik's Yacht Club again for fabulous fish. Tomorrow is my birthday, so I think we will stay home!

*Orsan is the original Italian word for Boathouse. Traditional rough-cut stone built barrel-ceiling buildings close to the water with a slipway for moving the boats. Many of these characterful buildings have now been made into restaurants. I am trying to find suitable photos from both restaurants, will post when I find them!

Motor Yacht Queen K

2010-11-02T23:14:00.004+01:00

A "monster" of a yacht could be seen berthing in Gruz Harbour this afternoon. Now, after dinner at 11pm in the pouring rain we had to drive round to see the name - Queen K. At 72m / 238 ft she is certainly a sight for Dubrovnik, and especially now in November, when most yachts are gearing up for the Caribbean season. She is Lurssen by design, built in 2004 and formerly known as Queen M.

Her owner remains a mystery though she's been linked to Oleg Deripaska whose estimated wealth of $13 billion exceeds that of Roman Abramovich. Queen K moored alongside the yacht my partner was working on this summer (62m), and the family ate onboard, "Impeccable manners of children!", he remembers.

The Colours of the Adriatic

2010-10-31T21:59:00.011+01:00

People say that the Adriatic Sea has a certain colour about it and stands out ... definitely it is clean and crystal clear (thanks to the current, which goes anti-clockwise and any "pollution" ends up on the east coast of Italy!).

Calamari Season

2010-10-30T20:43:00.003+02:00

Out at sea you can now see lots of little boats bobbing around, many staying overnight and shining strong lights into the water. This indicates it is calamari season. Brits don't tend to eat "squid" but I love it. Edin has been asked by his friends to go out overnight, but he can think of nothing more boring than staying out in the cold night air, with a rod, waiting in silence (even though there are a few cases of beers onboard). Our friend today gave us half a kilo of his last night's catch. Edin spent 50 minutes gutting the calamari ... great, there was black ink all over the kitchen! After the preparation, dipped in a little flour and fried ... delicious!

Perfect October day

2010-10-29T16:03:00.003+02:00

Can the weather be more perfect than this? For 29th October our Dubrovnik weather is glorious with warm fresh air and sparkling seas. The Adriatic is certainly the place to be during Autumn and days like this. Ana (in photo) who is our Croatian/Australian colleague celebrates her 21st birthday today - so pink champagne all round.

Cunard ship in town

2010-10-29T15:53:00.005+02:00

We got a great view of the MS Queen Victoria this morning coming into Gruz Harbour, as we drove along the highway to work. Stopping at a good vantage point we saw her sweep easily into the dock. Fantastic October autumn day, so the passengers and crew will surely have an excellent day exploring Dubrovnik's Old Town. As Edin knows some Croatian crew (formerly of QE2, Dynasty and Princess) he was off to meet his old mates for coffee! Cunard's red funnel and waterline stripe does set their ships apart from the other cruisers.

We await the arrival of Queen Elizabeth in the coming days. At 92,000 gross tons she is larger than the Queen Victoria, so hope she is able to dock too rather than be at anchor.

Multi-coloured Dubrovnik

2010-10-25T22:37:00.003+02:00

Dubrovnik had an outdoor showing of the film Invictus this summer, with a visit by Morgan Freeman who brushed past me after making a speech. To watch the film in the open air with the Old Town as the backdrop was amazing. This year's spotlights on the ancient stones was very colourful and ingenious.

Memories of Dubrovnik in the summer

2010-10-24T16:24:00.007+02:00

Good to see these photos with the swarms of tourists around the Old Town ... before the autumn truly sets in and less people are around. The cruise ships are still arriving, though less in numbers. I believe MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Co.) will be having a ship visiting the town every week on its way from Venice over the winter, which will be good for tourism.

Agro-tourism restaurant in the mountains

2010-10-21T22:11:00.011+02:00

We had an excellent meal last night up in the mountains ... at an agro-tourism restaurant. Very authentic and run by the owners who prepared an excellent meal of lamb under the bell ...
We were greeted by the owners wearing traditional Croatian costume ...
The meal of lamb and potatoes is cooked under "a bell" surrounded by hot ashes for approx 3 hours. Delicious!
Care and attention throughout with the restoration of the mill ...
Starting the evening with a grappa, cherry liqueur or my favourite "Orahavica" which is walnut liqueuer. Fresh figs, sugared orange peel and sugared almonds. All drink made on the premises and all food either homemade or locally sourced.
Not a vat of red wine which I originally thought, but a vat of liquid fermenting for making the liqueurs .... slowly bubbling ...
The shed had an assortment of barrels of wine
More barrels and wine bottles ...
The restaurant with old black and white family photos, adding to the nostalgia of the area.
The bar
Modern vats of wine ... with the friendly cat
The cat followed us everywhere
Following a full meal of prosciutto ham, cheese, lamb potatoes, cod risotto, sardines, salad, rozata (like an egg custard desert) and copious homemade wine ... it was time for dancing
Jelka the owner has won an award for being one of the best Croatian business women ... she certainly has the flair for being a great hostess and entertainer for our small group.

More information and photos on this restaurant see here

Where I would like to be now

2010-10-20T15:19:00.002+02:00

I took these images a couple of weeks ago ..... crystal clear waters of the swimming pool with the Adriatic and the islands behind ...... very tempting now to look at the photos, on this drizzly day.

Autumn Sunset

2010-10-19T22:37:00.006+02:00

Autumn is my favourite time of year especially on clear crisp days with azure blue skies during the day and gorgeous multi-coloured sunsets leading into twilight.

Last week in Dubrovnik!

2010-10-19T22:28:00.002+02:00

It's hard to believe that these summer-like photos were taken (by very talented Angeline Vincent!) only last week here in Dubrovnik. I say this as we endure strong north winds and rain now. Amazing how the weather can change. I firmly believe the weather will improve again ... it has to ... one of my colleagues insists she will go swimming again before the year is out ...

Cunard Queen Elizabeth

2010-10-19T22:09:00.005+02:00

The naming ceremony of Cunard's new ship "Queen Elizabeth"
Captain Chris Well showing the Queen around the interior of the ship

I felt very proud last week when my friend and former QE2 colleague Chris Wells became Captain of the newly launched ship "Queen Elizabeth". The naming ceremony in Southampton was attended by the Queen herself. It was here (click) just a year ago when Chris was appointed as Master of the ship and we met for lunch in the Old Town as he visited Dubrovnik as Captain then of the Oriana. The Queen Elizabeth arrives in Dubrovnik for the day on 9th November, so unless the ship is at anchor, I will do my best to get a pass to go onboard!

Christmas & New Year wishes

2009-12-20T14:22:00.003+01:00

Time to fly to England today (land of the snow and chilly weather!). Will try and post during the Christmas holidays, if not, will be back in the new Year - with more exciting photos of the beautiful azure Croatian coastline!

Am I mad to change?

2009-12-18T19:19:00.004+01:00

From this .... to this! Here is the snowy scene sent by mobile from my friend in Brighton today, just where I am heading to on Sunday. Yes our Dubrovnik temperatures have dropped somewhat this week with the cold north wind, but to be experiencing snow soon is a shuddering feeling. At least British Airways are not on strike now, so air travel plans should be fine.

No electricity!

2009-12-17T11:25:00.002+01:00

Tuesday evening 7.30pm ... clack ... no electricity! There had been a big fire at the electricity station, and the whole of the Dubrovnik region was in darkness. Fortunately I had candles and torches, but it was getting mighty chilly! Early to bed. We don't have gas pipes in Dubrovnik so rely heavily on electricity. For my area the electricity came on late last night, so over 24 hours (spanning 2 evenings) of cold. Strange to see Dubrovnik in complete darkness. They are predicting more cuts too before the week is out.

Winning Ticket ...

2009-12-17T11:16:00.003+01:00

Monday evening I was invited to the Foreign Circle Christmas party in Dubrovnik. Approx 100 people attended the party with drinks and food in abundance. Met lots of people through both business and friendship. A raffle was held with fabulous prizes ... and I won one! Two nights bed and breakfast sea view room at the 5 star Hotel Radisson Blu! OK so the hotel's only 20 minutes down the road, but will be a great weekend break next year. Photo Mark Thomas

No to blue houses!

2009-12-10T19:20:00.003+01:00

I received a shock today: driving through my favourite little village near to Dubrovnik where the detached family houses are attractive with well-tended gardens, I turned a corner and came across this! Yes, I like the colour blue, but please, not for a house!

Dubrovnik today

2009-12-10T19:12:00.003+01:00

"Let me just pull over, I'm driving in snow ..." No, not me, the client I had called in Sweden today. I had just taken this photo from the viewpoint at 1030am, a picture postcard December day with the islands in the background, blue sky and sunshine. Temp about 13c/55f but the sun made it warmer. Anyone holidaying in Dubrovnik now will be very happy indeed!

2009-12-06T19:22:00.003+01:00

Friends always turn up just at the right time with flowers! It was lovely of Vesna to give me a little bouquet on Friday as a belated birthday present (er ... was 3rd November!). They brightened my day up no end and now look great in the apartment this weekend. Thanks! xx

Red sky at night ...

2009-12-06T19:00:00.005+01:00

In Britain the old rhyme "Red sky at night; shepherds delight. Red sky in the morning; shepherds warning" means what it says (and can sometimes refer to sailors as well as shepherds). However, in Croatia it is the other way around! I jumped up when I saw the sky a crimson red getting deeper and deeper ... The delights of winter sunsets. Umbrella tomorrow.

Beautifully restored 18th century villa

2009-12-04T20:53:00.008+01:00

Love the turquoise shutters!

Grey in the bathroom is fabulous

Traditional wooden flooring

Modern mixed with traditional

Clear uncluttered bedroom, and double doors

Spacious attic room with en suite bathroom

Here's the grey bathroom again

Peaceful patio

Interesting artwork on the landing to create interest

Attractive courtyard surrounded by lavendar ...

I know several people who read Azure Croatia have an interest in interiors (all my other favourite blogs have the interior theme). Although my blog is to air my ideas/views/ surroundings I couldn't help but post this today. I have been working on some properties in the Istrian area - north of Croatia. Properties are quite different in Istria to the ones in Dubrovnik as it is usual in the north to always have fireplaces, central heating, and all insulation from the cold. They always get snow whereas Dubrovnik gets snow once every 45 years (once being Feb 2008). This property is a beautifully restored 18th century villa in Motovun, a fashionable town, famous for its annual film festival. Three bedrooms, and very stylish, the property caught my attention. source.

From Alaska to Croatia

2009-12-02T20:01:00.006+01:00

From Alaska to Croatia (and around the world inbetween). Many people ask how I met my man as he is Croatian and I am British. "I met him in Alaska". Back in 1996 on Cunard's Crown Dynasty we met whilst working on the ship and berthed in Juneau. The ship had 300 crew and about 28 were Croatian, and half of these originated from Dubrovnik. Alaska has breathtaking scenery, incredible glaciers (which you can walk on), clear unpolluted air, stunning natural landscapes, and magical sunsets, never mind watching up close the beauty of the whales, bears and abundant wildlife.

First holiday abroad to Yugoslavia/Croatia

2009-12-02T19:45:00.009+01:00

My first holiday abroad (apart from school trips to France) was in 1979 with my parents and sister. We travelled to what was then Yugoslavia, with the popular tour operator "Yugotours". Our hotel for the fortnight was Hotel Belvedere in Medulin, near Pula, Istria. I have great memories of the holiday and I think I have still got "souvenirs" from 30 years ago (simple things like wine labels, menus, printed serviettes, tic-tac boxes etc). I remember being dragged round an ancient Roman ampitheatre, not a great day out for a youngster. Is it fate that years on, I am now living here in Croatia, albeit in the south of the country?

Hotel Dubrovnik, England

2009-12-02T19:18:00.006+01:00

Back in the early 1980's my parents sold the family home (I come from a large family of 7 and numbers were dwindling as we began leaving the nest). A few years later on the house was bought by a Croatian family as their primary residence. My parents moved back to the Drive and bought the house next door. The Croatian family's business was a few miles down the road; a hotel called Dubrovnik Hotel. My sister even had her wedding reception at the hotel in '91. Today the privately owned Dubrovnik Hotel continues to flourish and promotes itself as Bradford's Premier Boutique Hotel. So, is it fate that I should be now living in Dubrovnik? All those years ago I never thought that I would be living in the country of origin of my neighbours.

Blue moon month

2009-12-02T18:35:00.004+01:00

December is the month of "the blue moon". The popular definition means it is the 2nd full month to occur in one calendar month. One full moon was this morning, 2nd Dec, and the other will be New Year's Eve, 31st Dec at 7.11pm GMT. On average there will be 41 months with 2 full moons per century or once every 2 and a half years ..... once in a Blue Moon! The skies here in Dubrovnik tend to be quite good for watching out for stars and the moon, so will be on the lookout for the blue moon at the end of the year (champagne in hand!).

Welcome to December ...

2009-12-01T17:51:00.009+01:00

Last Saturday I watched BBC World's interesting "Hot Cities" about climate change and the fact that hurricanes and flooding around the world are increasing (apparently NYC is threatened to be at risk of flooding!).

For the last 24 hours we have endured a vicious coastal storm - winds up to 110km (directed straight at my apt, I am sure!). I thought my windows would blow in, so spent a sleepless night wandering the apt considering if I should bed down in the living room. Every storm seems worse than the one the previous year. By 4pm today, a sliver of sunshine showed through, but by 4.15pm for sunset - it was gone. These photos show nothing, if there was sound - it would be deafening. Ah memories of living on the coast in summertime ...

Before & after, stone house restoration II

2009-11-25T21:54:00.014+01:00

This shows a marvellous renovation of a house I sold 3 years ago, located on The Stradun (main promenade) of the Old Town, Dubrovnik, indicating what can be done with a centuries old property. The whole house of just 77m2 was totally gutted including ceilings/floors which were re-aligned as previously the 1st floor was barely 6ft high and the second floor was very high. Now it's an impressive 3 bedroom house for rental, right in the heart of the historical medieaval city.
Before - second floor bedroom

After - converted to the open-plan living room/kitchen

After - another view of the high ceilings in the open-plan living room

Before - first floor bedroom, with low ceilings

After - first floor bedroom with en suite bathroom, with higher ceilings

Before - attic

After - bedroom with twin beds, great for the kids

Before - 3rd floor kitchen

After - 3rd floor bedroom with en suite bathroom

Before - first floor bedroom, with low ceilings

After - first floor bedroom with en suite bathroom

Before - second floor bedroom, with high ceilings

After - second floor, now living room

Before - bathroom

After - bathroom

Before - a stairway

After - stairway remodelled!

After - stairway remodelled, showing other side of living area

The Stradun, the same now as it was centuries ago ..... unchanged! The marble slabs were laid in 1468!

French porcelain votive lights

2009-11-25T20:33:00.004+01:00

During winter I always have lots of candles around the living room in the evening. The favourites are the above Bernardaud porcelain votive lights. One of the leaving gifts from my time at sea (well chosen by the Captain's wife!) was the "bouquet of roses" light. We found the "sailboats" in Little Switzerland, St Maarten to add to the collection. The exquisite detail is illuminated when a tea-light is placed inside. Dozens of scenes exist: New York, Paris, Orchids, Japanese Gardens, Humming birds, Chicago .... even golf. See here.

Moving to Croatia, 2003

2009-11-25T18:32:00.003+01:00

'Twas a cold and frosty morning, way back in November 2003. Moving from Mallorca to Croatia this photo was taken somewhere in Italy along the way. Can you believe we came here with our "life" jam packed into the car. Now when customs at the Slovenian border wanted us to remove everything .... I had a British hizzy fit and the customs waved us through!

6 years ago today .... Dubrovnik!

2009-11-21T20:49:00.004+01:00

I was reminded that today's the day SIX years ago when we arrived in Dubrovnik. Coming by jeep from Mallorca to set up home. Since leaving England in 1987, Croatia is the longest time for me to ever live in one place. Must be the views, people, wine, food, coastline, clear seas, climate, safety, friends .... which are keeping me here. I have some photos from the early days on another computer which I will dig out soon.

Looking through the window, I can see ...

2009-11-20T16:26:00.006+01:00

Wow, what a view looking down upon Dubrovnik's Old Town

Enjoy a coffee on the balcony looking towards the Medieaval Old Town

Derelict house aching to be renovated with a view onto islands

Year round enjoyment overlooking the bay, a safe-haven for sailors

The Jadrolinja ferry heading to the islands

View onto islands

Views of the bay from your living room window

View onto superyachts gracing the bay in summer.

Wake up to this glorious beach view

View of the small bay for fishing boats with the town beyond

Building the balcony with the picture-postcard view of Dubrovnik!

Shady terrace overlooking the sea and islands

Imagine having breakfast on the balcony with these terrific views

Attractive arched terrace towards the islands

A quiet corner for reflection ... overlooking one of the greatest Medieaval Old Towns in the world!

Here are a selection of photos, within a 30km radius of Dubrovnik, all with spectacular views, looking through the windows ...

Africa in Dubrovnik

2009-11-20T16:15:00.003+01:00

Here's one of the "kittens" - nearly 6 years old! Called Africa she's a little timid, but loving when she wants to be. She enjoys the balcony every day looking out for birds, insects, flying fish and bats!

Sunsets galore

2009-11-20T16:06:00.004+01:00

Previous week's sunset with heavy rain clouds on horizon

I've been "missing" for a week as home laptop connection failed since last Saturday. Back on track now. Experiencing fabulous sunsets every afternoon - this week the sky was purple. Great to have daily temps of 20 degrees too.

Saga Rose in Dubrovnik

2009-11-12T19:52:00.006+01:00

7 o'clock this morning, the start of a glorious sunny day. The horn of a ship woke me up, together with a voice on the tannoy to the passengers (so loud, so early!); the dulcet tones I recognised to be that of Captain David Warden-Owen, a captain I worked for on Cunard Dynasty in 1996. The sound easily travelled across the sea to the shore as the air was still. The Saga Rose is on her final Mediterranean tour before retiring end of the month having been built in 1965. I nipped outside onto the balcony in pyjamas to take the photo. All the best to the Captain if he is reading this!

Mosaic Art

2009-11-11T21:00:00.003+01:00

Since I posted about Sonia King's fabulous mosaic art, I have been taking more of an interest in the new style of custom mosaics that are around. Now modern technology allows a glass-mosaic mural to be made of any .jpeg you have. The possibilities are endless. See here.

source: materialicious, glass decor

Before & after, stone house restoration

2009-11-07T19:09:00.028+01:00

Here we have a typical restoration of an ancient stone property here in Dalmatia. This house I sold 2 years ago to one of our discerning clients and has undergone a spectacular renovation ... small and cute (like a Gingerbread House in the children's stories) with a "secret garden" once through the wooden doors into the high-walled courtyard. Magical! Enjoy the photos.

This centuries old stone property is well located, frontline in a gorgeous resort here in Dalmatia. The house still remains a two bedroom residence but now has en suite bathrooms, living room with exposed stone walls and authentic wooden beams, dining room, kitchen and guest w.c. The walled private garden with numerous original stone features includes; columns, benches and a real wishing well (with water!). The view above shows the covered afresco dining area with bbq and stone seating - perfect for chillier days with a real fire, wine and fabulous friends! Delightful!

Fabulous Friday

2009-11-06T17:13:00.009+01:00

As our Dubrovnik streets are awash with torrents of water from non-stop rain today, I have found a fabulous dream house to take my mind away from raging seas in front of mine! Sourced from the sites Materialicious / The Coolist, this architectural gem called The Riverhouse is located in Niagara, USA. Its limestone, Brazilian teak and silver metal exterior enhances the sleek, comfortable and contemporary interior. If money wasn't a problem - my kind of house!

Small Luxury Hotels of the World

2009-11-06T16:51:00.008+01:00

We met our good friend yesterday who used to work at the Villa Dubrovnik before it closed two years ago to undergo a complete renovation. Relaunching in mid 2010 as one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the new Villa Dubrovnik will be a marvellous contemporary hotel with 56 luxury residence units. Located on the edge of Adriatic with world class views of Dubrovnik Old Town the exclusive hotel will be one to watch for sure.

Autumn in Croatia

2009-10-31T17:03:00.005+01:00

Source: Croatia Tourist Board - Slano

Source: me!

31st of October, today - going into another month tomorrow. I took some Russian clients to look at frontline properties in Slano this morning, this bay is about 30km north of Dubrovnik. The sunset from my balcony was again good (pity my photo isn't!) at 4.41pm, the days are slipping away. We don't have Halloween as such in Croatia, but I've enjoyed reading all the American blogs with their colourful photos. Must find pumpkin!

Dubrovnik treasures

2009-10-29T20:56:00.011+01:00

Petra, Aqaba, Jordan

Jesuit Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Dubrovnik

I was in the Old Town this morning, and to reach my destination I had to pass this magnificent church, the Jesuit Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Not being religious myself I would normally walk on by, but the weather, lack of tourists and peacefulness made me notice the baroque church more than usual. Looking back and seeing the church through a side street reminded me of my time in Petra, Jordan seeing the marvellous sight there of the Al Khazneh, "The Treasury".

From Dawn to Dusk

2009-10-28T17:49:00.005+01:00

Autumn is a fabulous time of year for sunrises and sunsets - with little humidity. Today has been no exception. Sunset is approx 4.45pm now, very early! I love to be on the balcony at this time, tea in hand to watch the sun dip into the Adriatic. After last Friday's deluge of rain it's great to get back to 21 deg. / 70 deg. temperatures again. Hope this lasts into November - my birthday month!

Where I'd like to be ...

2009-10-23T19:08:00.005+02:00

I took a photo from the balcony today, but makes for a depressing sight; grey low clouds, huge waves crashing, strong wind, lashings of rain etc. So, rather than using that I prefer this inspiring photo, above, of the days of summer instead. Not sure of the source of photo, but looks like Croatia with the pine trees and islands.

A coincidental day

2009-10-22T19:39:00.005+02:00

I had the delight to meet 8 very good friends of my NYC friend yesterday. Nancy Brookes is a cruise booking agent (formerly of Cunard shop 555 5th Ave) and her fabulous friends came to Dubrovnik on a cruise. Terrific people, know more terrific people! They had booked 4 penthouses on the Nautica ship. After enjoying a 2 hour guided tour of the Old Town we ate at the top Nautika restaurant. I noticed that one of the gents had a jacket made by the brand Nautica. Too many coincidences! A wonderful group of friends who are having the time of their lives cruising around Europe!

Azure Maldives

2009-10-20T20:15:00.007+02:00

Today I would like to be in Azure Maldives, rather than Azure Croatia .... our temperatures have plummeted and the rain/wind is a-plenty. I received an email from my friend Petra who works on this glorious island of Kuredu in the Indian Ocean. She always manages to send a message at the "right time", just when it is blowing a gale or snowing here. Will batten down the hatches tonight. Petra and Marc are just completing their own dive base on an island which takes 10 mins to walk around, opening 1st Jan 2010. She spent an hour reading my blog, appreciated!

Beautiful ...

2009-10-17T14:50:00.005+02:00

Here is one of the most beautiful photos I've seen for a long time. Photo taken by John Paul Urizar in Australia and sourced via House of Turquoise. Gorgeous colours. On a day like today in Croatia with heavy grey skies and abundant rain, I was delighted to come across this.

Modern glamour, traditional setting

2009-10-15T20:08:00.004+02:00

I was asked to visit a renovated Dubrovnik villa today to write a description in english for future rental. Wow, I was not prepared for this! Immaculate villa throughout, with top quality handcrafted work re-creating the traditional property as it once was, exuding modern glamour! Absolute gorgeousness everywhere. Words are tumbling out of me to write "a suitable" description, so I will sit quietly with a glass of wine, and begin ... 4 bedroom villa with pool ...

Autumn's on its way ...

2009-10-13T22:13:00.002+02:00

Saturday my friend was swimming, today we are wearing boots! Yes, the weekend brought a turn in the weather and a dip in the temps. Still blue sky and sunshine, but a cold raw north wind. What to wear? Long sleeves? Short sleeves? Inbetween days this week. Jumpers at the ready.

Sunrises and friendships

2009-10-06T19:33:00.009+02:00

Sunrise Costa Blanca, 5th Oct 2009

Sunrise Dubrovnik 5th Oct 2009

How many times do you think of someone from your past, and even talk of them, then within less than 48 hours they are in touch? Well Saturday I was talking about my former bank manager at Banco Santander in Mallorca and yesterday Lesley emailed me these beautiful sunrise photos. Lesley and Ron moved to mainland Spain in 2002 so it has been a full 7 years since I have seen them. Also coincidentally I took my own sunrise photo yesterday though from the seaside - all calm and tranquil at 0730am. Long may these 23c / 73f temps continue!

Holiday Time

2009-09-26T20:15:00.008+02:00

I am packing for a journey/voyage/adventure for the following week so will not be posting til after next weekend ... which will bring us into October, the months are flying.

Dalmatians in Dalmatia

2009-09-25T20:15:00.003+02:00

The Dalmatian dog is widely associated with the region of Dalmatia here in Croatia (where Dubrovnik is located) although the exact origin remains unknown. An interesting fact is that Dalmatian puppies, normally 8 in a litter, are born white, and the spots appear over the first few weeks of the puppies lives.

Residence named after me

2009-09-25T20:00:00.005+02:00

I came across a beautiful frontline residence on the internet called Villa Mandy. As it's one I have for sale, I was shocked, surprised and intrigued to learn of this new name so asked the seller. Yes, he had changed the name from his son to Mandy - perhaps appeals more to foreigners! As it's marketed for more than half a million euros ... I can't complain, and am flattered. Good karma! Must sell.

Late afternoon sunshine

2009-09-24T19:58:00.007+02:00

Autumn seems to be closing in now with dusk being earlier every night. The legendary tall ship Sea Cloud came sailing past at 5.30pm and into a fabulous sunset on her way to Venice. By 7.30pm we had darkness! Daily temps are still 28c/82f, blue skies and sunshine with tourists continuing to enjoy the beaches.

Ligne Roset

2009-09-22T20:27:00.005+02:00

One company I love is Ligne Roset. Their newsletter arrived in my inbox today promoting their new 2010 collection. Although the photo above is a little stark, the azure blue colour for their "Confluences" sofas I love, and I think all the blue combinations would look great together in my beach house. I have admired their products for many years and one day will succumb to buying something! The capital, Zagreb, sells Ligne Roset too (called Proning, no website).