ALH Times - 2013 issue

Cavtat, a charming little town

Anthony Melchiorri, The Hotel Guru of Travel Channel

page 32

page 24

Spring 2013

HOTEL EXCELSIOR DUBROVNIK

Hotel Excelsior late 1930s

HONOURING OUR GUESTS SINCE 1913 T

his year, the legendary Hotel Excelsior celebrates its 100th birthday. In the century since it opened in July 1913, the Excelsior has become an iconic landmark among the five-star hotels of

The beaches, terraces, and gardens of our 5-star hotels serve as breathtaking open stages where concerts are held under the stars.

Dubrovnik. This time-honoured building – a blend of old and new – is uniquely located on a cliff top, with magnificent views from every floor, of the island of Lokrum in one direction and the Old Town in the other.

ubrovnik is a world-famous destination whose remarkable historical monuments and breathtaking coastal scenery never fail to enchant. It is also a vibrant cultural centre, particularly during the summer months,

more than a hundred years of history linked to the major intellectual, social, cultural and artistic movements of the times.

Full story on page 16 ›

STARRY SUMMER NIGHTS

This is the ninth year that Adriatic Luxury Hotels is organizing a summer music entertainment program under the expressive name “Stars beneath the Stars”, for the city of Dubrovnik and its guests.

D

Excelsior is not only one of the leading luxury hotels in Dubrovnik, it is also a living record of the historical and cultural development of the city itself. Few hotels in Croatia have

when the city blossoms with art exhibitions, concerts, and theatrical performances, including the famous Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

page 14 Jelena Radan & Meritas

ALH TIMES 03

HOTEL INFORMATION www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Transformation of Hotel Croatia Cavtat Suites Hotel Croatia Cavtat

Presidential Suite before renovation

I

f you are planning a stay in the charming town of Cavtat, try one of the newly refurbished suites at Hotel Croatia Cavtat. All seven suites at Hotel Croatia were recently renovated, and unveiled with a fresh new look. These renovated suites offer remarkable light and elegant interiors. The scope of the renovation included architectural finishes and fixtures, as well as custom furniture, transforming these suites into a luxurious “home away from home” experience.

These suites combine contemporary elegance with the luxury that our guests have come to expect.

Choose between two junior suites, three executive suites, or, for the ultimate in privacy and comfort, we recommend our 130m2 Ambassador Suite with an extra-large terrace and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. For an even more luxurious experience, try the 158m2 Presidential Suite, whose spacious terrace offers 180-degree views stretching from the old town of Cavtat all the way to the city walls of Dubrovnik.

New Energy Clinic spa and wellness centres

Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik, Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace In conjunction with Energy Clinic, our top five-star hotels now offer a completely new spa and wellness concept. Energy Clinic captures the best of both East and West, combining luxurious, traditional European methods with the philosophy and techniques of Chinese medicine. With a holistic and personal approach to wellbeing, Energy Clinic is at your service, offering the finest treatments in Dubrovnik. A complete list of our extensive spa services can be found in all our hotels.

Visit our luxury spa and wellness Energy Clinic centres where pampering and relaxation go hand in hand.

Celebrate 100 years of Hotel Excelsior (and try gourmet ALH chocolates as a souvenir) Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik

White chocolate with lavender or dried figs? Rich dark chocolate with fleur de sel or orange zest? Taste them all! In celebration of the 100-year anniversary of Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, we invite you to taste the truffle selection created especially for ALH hotels using the best flavours of the Mediterranean. Savour them with coffee at the piano bar, or even better, purchase a collection to take home as a souvenir, and immerse yourself once again in memories of your holiday in Dubrovnik.

Announcing Complete Make over of Hotel Kompas

F

orty-five might be considered young for facelift, but it's just about the right time for this 3-star hotel to undergo a major makeover.

This year, hotel Kompas will become the elegant four-plus-star hotel it deserves to be.

The makeover of hotel Kompas is scheduled to begin as soon as the tourist season ends, at the end of September 2013 and it will re-open its doors at the end of May 2014.

During this time the hotel will undergo extensive renovations and will emerge with a completely new look as a sophisticated 4-plus-star hotel emphasizing warmth and serenity.

The hotel will feature a total of 145 sophisticated bedrooms and suites, lavishly ornamented with elegant décor. The new design includes significant upgrades to all the interior spaces of the hotel, creating a blend of sophisticated, modern but yet harmonious look which will delight our discerning guests.

Guests will also enjoy two new restaurants with innovative cuisine concepts. Both an a la carte restaurant and our main fine dining restaurant will serve as inspirations to our guests, offering delicious Croatian and international dishes made with the finest ingredients, a carefully selected wine list and magnificent views of the Adriatic Sea. The hotel’s exteriors will feature warm and inviting lighting, contemporary glass doors and stone accents matching the natural colours of the environment. When entering the reception area, guests will be pleasantly greeted by soft integrated lighting and an atmosphere of a homey gathering place. The reception area will also feature a bar

in a spectacular setting - all corners of the bar will be made of glass walls, overlooking the Uvala bay and the Adriatic Sea. For the summer season, the hotel will also open its spacious sunbathing terrace, offering views of Lapad Bay glistening in the midday sun. Guests can also cool off in the outdoor pool, or enjoy their favourite drinks or coffees at the poolside bar.

As night falls, guests will be able to step into the Kompas lounge bar on the seafront terrace, while sipping their favourite drinks and enjoying the magical scene of the sunset in the background.

To meet the new demands of business meeting and convention attendees, the hotel will feature a high tech conference room for up to 400 people with theatre style seating.

The meeting room can be divided into three smaller sections, all featuring natural light and state-of-the-art technical equipment.

The new hotel Kompas will also feature a Wellness and Spa centre where a tranquil sanctuary and complete relaxation will be guaranteed. Guests can choose from a wide range of health and beauty treatments in three massage rooms, work out on the latest state-of-theart equipment in the fitness room, relax in the indoor or outdoor pool, with serene views of the crystal blue Adriatic Sea, and rejuvenate in the saunas.

Once the renovations of hotel Kompas are complete, we expect its impressive new look and redesigned facilities to set it far above the competition. The new Kompas will be a little piece of heaven for the perfect holiday!

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DUBROVNIK www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Dubrovnik ‒ a Mediterranean Treasure

Did you know?

Richard the Lionheart, King of England, came to Dubrovnik in the autumn of 1192, on his return from the crusades. He took shelter from a storm on the island of Lokrum.

In 1296 the Dubrovnik Republic built a sewage system which is still in use.

The pharmacy in the Franciscan monastery in Dubrovnik has been operating continuously since 1317.

The first quarantine in the world was established in Dubrovnik in 1377.

Travellers arriving from areas infected with contagious disease were separated and held in the quarantine until they were proven to be healthy.

Dubrovnik passed a resolution abolishing slavery and forbidding the transport of slaves on 27 January 1416, making it the first state in Europe to abolish slavery.

The Dubrovnik Old Town

Dubrovnik is more than a city. A perfect combination of past, present and future, of culture, heritage and natural beauty, it offers a unique experience and unforgettable holidays. No wonder it has become the latest must-see Mediterranean destination.

At the southern tip of Croatia’s long coastline, Dubrovnik has long been known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, but it is in fact one of the great sights of the Mediterranean, rightly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In addition to its natural beauty and rich history, Dubrovnik’s cultural events and diverse programme of attractions and activities in all seasons, make Dubrovnik the perfect destination for sightseeing, sport, cultural events or simply relaxing in a beautiful Mediterranean setting.

For many centuries Dubrovnik was an independent Republic, a proud cultural centre and an important Mediterranean trading power.

Although no longer politically independent, it remains a centre of culture and tourism-- a city of museums and galleries, famous for its annual Summer Festival, an international celebration of outstanding music and theatre. Add to all this the seductive charm of a balmy Mediterranean climate and coastal scenery of incomparable beauty, and you have a powerful magnet for international tourism.

The enchantment starts with the panoramic view of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, glimpsed first from the winding road that brings you to town from the airport. Rare are the cities that can boast a comparable location, or such well preserved medieval walls.

These ancient fortifications were built with good reason -- conquerors have always been attracted to Dubrovnik’s beauty and wealth, even as recently as the last decade of the 20th century. But now Dubrovnik’s walls teem not with soldiers, but tourists and open-air theatre performers. Half a million people visit the city every year, to experience its fascinating historic attractions. Dubrovnik is itself a living museum, a treasure trove of Baroque, Renaissance and medieval churches and palaces.

The people of Dubrovnik are immensely proud of their city. They love their beautiful coastline, the sparkling emerald and sapphire hues of the clear sea as it crashes against the rocks of countless bays and coves, and the cliffs of lush subtropical vegetation. And they love the warm southern climate.

With more than 250 days of sunshine

a year, Dubrovnik sunbathes even in winter, when the orange and lemon trees are filled with fruit.

The average temperature is 10°C in winter and around 26°C in summer.

Dubrovnik’s long history of renowned visitors starts with Richard the Lionheart, crusader king of England, whom legend claims visited here in the 12th century. The city’s guest book includes royalty, statesmen, athletes, actors, artists, and musicians of every nation.

Edward and Mrs. Simpson, Queen Elizabeth, King Olaf, Margaret Thatcher, Edward Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Michael Douglas and Catharine Zeta Jones, Richard Gere, Nick Nolte and Tom Cruise are just some of the great names who have walked the shining marble stones of the Old Town Stradun. Many celebrities anchor their luxury yachts just outside the Old Town, in front of the island of Lokrum. Roman Abramović, Paul Getty, Bill Gates, Caroline of Monaco, the King of Jordan and the Sultan of Oman are among those who value the privacy of their floating palaces.

Oligarchs and humble backpackers alike succumb to the seductive beauty of Dubrovnik.

The orphanage founded at the Convent of St. Claire in 1432 was one of the first in the world.

When the Minčeta Tower was built in 1464, the builders did not have enough stones to complete the building. Everyone arriving from Gruž or Ploče was required to bring with them the heaviest stone they could carry to contribute to the project.

Trsteno arboretum near Dubrovnik was founded in the 15th century and is the oldest arboretum in the world. Some of the plane trees are almost 400 years old.

The Dubrovnik maritime insurance law (“Ordo super assecuratoribus”, 1568) is the oldest such law in the world.

Dubrovnik’s navy in the 16th century consisted of 40,000 sailors and more than 180 large ships, and was one of the most powerful in the Mediterranean.

Shakespeare’s “Merchant of Venice” and “The Taming of the Shrew” mention the term “argosy,” meaning “a boat from Dubrovnik.”

The Dubrovnik Republic was one of the first countries in the world to recognise the newly independent United States of America, in 1776.

co Re en m m de d s re u ta n ra

Special offer: Mediterranean Lunch Private and secluded terrace for small groups Brsalje 3, 20000 DUBROVNIK | tel: +385 (0) 20 44 25 26 | Open: 12:00 – 00:00

www.esculap-teo.hr

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TRADITION, QUALITY, CREATIVITY

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Among the world’s ten most romantic restaurants according to Condé Nast Traveller

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Dubrovnik’s finest restaurant

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DUBROVNIK www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Dubrovnik’s Sights

RECTOR’S PALACE

CITY WALLS

The unadorned simplicity of this Gothic-

his one-month rule, separated from his family,

Renaissance palace may seem too modest for

and was only allowed to leave the building for

the affluence of the Dubrovnik Republic, but

official business. The atrium is a harmonious

restraint was the style of those times, and

space, with Corinthian columns, galleries, a

this splendid building has survived explosions

beautiful Baroque staircase and outstanding

and earthquakes throughout the years. The

acoustics. It is often used for chamber music

Rector of Dubrovnik lived in this palace during

concerts.

STRADUN

Dubrovnik’s most celebrated landmark

have remained the same since the 14th

is its city walls, a 1,940m stone curtain

century, but the structures themselves took

surrounding the old city. Much more than

shape gradually during the golden age of

a simple wall, the strongest and most

Dubrovnik - from the fall of Constantinople

beautiful city fortification complex on the

in 1453 to the great earthquake of 1667.

Mediterranean includes towers, bastions,

Walking the ramparts is a magnificent

castles and fortresses. The outer dimensions

introductory tour of the city.

SPONZA PALACE

Although its official name is Placa, everyone

quickly and ensure that life in the city would

knows the main street of the Old Town as

continue. Thus all the houses along the Stradun

Stradun, the favourite promenade of every

were rebuilt according to designs approved by

Dubrovnik resident and visitor. Rebuilt after the

the Senate of the Republic. Buildings along the

earthquake of 1667, it is a broad axis of graceful

Stradun were all rebuilt to a uniform height,

and harmonious stone buildings, impressive

with nearly identical facades, and similar layout,

in their simple dignity. After the disaster, the

with shops on the ground floor, as trade was a

devastated city needed to secure its defence

top priority of the Republic of Dubrovnik.

LOVRIJENAC FORTRESS

All trade routes of the Dubrovnik Republic led

and operated within the Sponza Palace until

to this building, one of the loveliest palaces

the fall of the Republic. Today the palace

in the city. Constructed in a blend of late

is the seat of the Dubrovnik archive, which

Gothic and Renaissance styles according to

safeguards the city’s oldest documents and

the designs of Paskoje Miličević, the palace

invaluable historical materials. The square in

successfully combines many styles and gives

front of the Sponza Palace is the site of the

us a glimpse of the richness of the lavish

opening ceremony of the Dubrovnik Summer

palaces that stood in Dubrovnik before the

Festival each year; from the palace’s beautiful

Perched on a cliff 37m above the sea, this

auro. Freedom cannot be sold for gold. The

1667 earthquake. The arcaded courtyard was

piano nobile terrace, actors dressed in

fortress was built in the 16th century to

fortress is often used as a performance stage

a lively trading centre and meeting place.

costumes of Dubrovnik’s rector and noblemen

protect the city from Venetian attack. On the

during the Summer Festival, and makes a

One wing of the building housed the state

evoke the spirit and noble traditions of the

fortress’ walls an historic inscription can still

magnificent setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

mint, which was founded in the 14th century

Dubrovnik Republic.

be read: Non bene pro toto libertas venditur

DUBROVNIK

ALH TIMES 7

ROLAND’S COLUMN

On the main square, between the Sponza Palace and Church of St. Blaise, stands a 15th century stone column with a sculpture of a warrior. The sculpture represents the knight Roland, who allegedly saved Dubrovnik from the Saracens and was deeply revered during the Dubrovnik Republic. The white flag of the Republic was always flown proudly here.

CHURCH OF SAINT BLAISE

This church is a symbol of the city of Dubrovnik

celebrates St. Blaise’s Day on February 3, in

and its protector and patron saint. It stands at

festivities attended by the citizens of Dubrovnik

the centre of the Old Town. Each year the city

and visitors from many cities across Europe.

MINCETA FORTRESS

Heritage Shop is a unique place in Dubrovnik, inspired by rich cultural and historical heritage of both Dubrovnik and Croatia. It is decorated in the spirit of old Dubrovnik parlour and it is paved with ancient rectangular red and white stone panels used at the time of the Dubrovnik Republic.

The assortment comprises a wide array of works of art, antiques, unique ceramics, authentic replicas and usable items from the rich Croatian history since the Age of Antiquity until the present day.

All products are hand-made in collaboration with Croatian artists, craftsmen, archaeologists and scientist, as well as museums and conservation institutes. They have been made in a traditional way as unique items or in very small series.

Feel free to visit us! We shall be delighted to share with you a part of Croatian history.

Products of Rogaška Crystal can be bought exclusively in the Heritage Shop.

Dominating the city, and defying all enemies,

Renaissance architect Michelozzo Michelozzi

this beautiful fortress is a symbol of

and the Croatian Juraj Dalmatinac, and was

Dubrovnik’s freedom. A smaller rectangular

completed in 1464. From the top of Minčeta

tower on this site dates from the 14th century,

tower, you can enjoy a stunning view of the

while the monumental round tower we

town and surrounding areas.

Terra Marique Heritage Shop, Ulica Petra Krešimira IV. No. 7, Dubrovnik (in the close proximity of the lower cable car station)

know today was designed by the Florentine

tel: +385 98 209150 · info@heritageshop.hr · www.heritageshop.hr Open from 10-14 and 17-22

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DUBROVNIK www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Dubrovnik Tips Walking the walls and enjoying the beach is always fun, but for a happening holiday packed with the best parties, bars and shops, you need some inside information. Let ALH Times be your guide to an oasis of chic, in a Dubrovnik you’ve never seen before.

EXPLORE Dubrovnik Cable Car Ride up to the top of Mount Srđ and enjoy, without a doubt, the best view of the Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands, along with a coffee or cocktail. Up here, even the rainiest day makes inspiring scenery.

Inside tip: Wait a bit later in the day, and avoid the morning crowds.

Inside tip: Wait a bit later in the day, and avoid the morning crowds.

Đurović Cave Skycellar at Dubrovnik Airport This unique 5,000-year-old cave, located beneath Dubrovnik Airport, features pottery remains dating from the Iron Age. Discover its history with the help of an expert audio guide.

Don’t miss the Republic of Dubrovnik Hall, with its treasury of beautiful natural underground limestone formations.

Inside tip: At the end of your underground adventure, treat yourself to a taste of the region’s best wines. Skycellar collects the best local wines from the Konavle area, available for tasting and purchase along with authentic souvenirs.

COLLECT MEMORIES Victoria Restaurant and Lounge Bar Villa Orsula Executive Chef Thierry Caruel ensures that this fine-dining restaurant continues to be one of the most popular in Dubrovnik. His signature dish – herb-breaded lamb chops with courgettes, Provencal cannelloni, garlic confit and black olive tapenade – is created with loving attention to each detail. And where better to dine than beneath the grapevines of the restaurant’s charming terrace?

Inside tip: Start off your dining experience with a Blue Adriatic cocktail at the Lounge Bar.

Customized Excursions with Adriatic Luxury Services Find out for yourself why Croatia is renowned for its spectacular scenery, rich cultural heritage and wonderful cuisine.

There is no better way to discover the country than on a trip custom-made for you by Adriatic Luxury Services.

Instead of the hassle of a coach tour, let the experts put together your perfect itinerary – a sailing trip along the coast, with stops in small fairy tale fishing villages; horseback riding through Konavle vineyards; or perhaps a private guided tour of the Old Town.

Discover the possibilities at the ALS information stands at any Adriatic Luxury Hotel.

BRING HOME SOMETHING SPECIAL Maria Concept Store

Old Is New Again Dubrovnik's Traditional Jewellery

Find the latest, most chic offerings from eminent fashion houses such as Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, Celine, Burberry Prorsum, Jil Sander, Stella McCartney, Marni, Tom Binns, Alexander Wang, Acne, Giuseppe Zanotti Design, and more, at the Maria concept store. The architecture itself is worth a visit! The store is located in a palace from the early Gothic period, while the boutique’s interior design, by Italian architect Marco Boneli, strikes a chord of perfect harmony with a lofty aesthetic of the architectural setting.

In other words, don’t forget to look around while you shop.

Special offer: All ALH guests enjoy a special welcome drink, private shopping (please reserve in advance), personal shopping advice and free delivery of purchases to the hotel.

Heritage Shop If you want to feel the spirit of old Dubrovnik, the Heritage Shop gallery is a must on your itinerary.

Exquisitely decorated in the spirit of the old Dubrovnik salon and inspired by rich local and Croatian culture, the gallery offers a wide array of works of modern Croatian art, antiques, unique ceramics, artistic jewelry and authentic replicas. All souvenirs are authentic and hand-made in collaborations with Croatian artists and craftsmen, archaeologists and conservation institutes.

Inside tip: We particularly like the amphora replicas that have spent 2 years under the sea to get the true authentic crust.

The goldsmith’s craft is one of the oldest and best-known arts in Dubrovnik. Flourishing in the 14th and 15th centuries, goldsmiths created the favourite adornments of Dubrovnik noblewomen with special care, skill and artistry. Their timeless designs have been worn by dignitaries and celebrities such as Queen Rania of Jordan and Gillian Anderson.

Tip: Gold or silver filigree, rečini (earrings), puce (decorative buttons) or red coral necklaces with gold-plated hazelnuts, make unique souvenirs that last a lifetime.

XD Xenia Design This eminent Croatian brand offers exclusive ready-to-wear collections characterised by a sophisticated choice of fabrics, harmonious colours and architectural construction.

With a sense for the latest trends, the collections show bold ideas translated into design. XD Xenia Design presents a unique collection inspired by geological structures, presented as a part of the exhibition “Sutures, Structures and Textures” in cooperation with the Croatian museum of natural history. Special XD designed limited edition shirts feature printed motifs of artefacts from Croatian natural history.

Special offer: Visit Xenia Design at the Hotel Palace and, as an ALH guest, enjoy a special welcome drink, private shopping (please reserve in advance), personal shopping advice and shuttle service from your hotel to the store

Discover the natural and authentic skincare products and fragrances from the heart of Provence!

Zagreb:Arena Centar, Zagreb:Avenue Mall, Zagreb: City Center one West, Zagreb: Cvjetni • Split: City Center one, Split: Joker • Zadar: Narodni trg 3, Zadar: Supernova • Rijeka: Korzo 40 b, Rijeka: Tower Centar, Rijeka: ZTC

www.loccitane.com

10 ALH TIMES

EVENTS www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

PROGRAMME Jul 10

Aug 3

OPENING CEREMONY

DUBROVNIK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Jul 10-16, 23-30, Aug 19-25

Aug 4-7

TRIKO CIRCUS THEATER Caleidoskope

Festival Drama Ensemble I. Vojnović: EQUINOX Joško Juvančić, Director

Jul 11, 13, 14, 15 PREMIERE Music Without Frontiers Foundation, London W. A. Mozart: COSÌ FAN TUTTE Sally Burgess, Director; Oliver Gilmour, Conductor;

Jul 12

Aug 6 J. Brahms: The Beautiful Magelona Krešimir Stražanac, Bass-baritone Cornelis Witthoeft, Piano Urša Raukar, Reciter First performances of Krešimir Seletković & Anđelko Klobučar compositions

1813. – Verdi vs. Wagner Symphony Orchestra of the Zagreb University Music Academy Ira Levin, Conductor Giancarlo del Monaco, Director

Aug 7

Jul 16

Aug 8

Igor Lešnik & biNg bang – Zagreb Music Academy Percussion Ensemble

Les Humoresques Elena Bashkirova, Piano

Jul 18, 19

Aug 8-9

Slovenian National Theatre of Maribor S. Prokofiev: Romeo and Juliet

Festival Drama Ensemble G. Büchner: DANTON’S DEATH Oliver Frljić, Director

Jul 20 DUBROVNIK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Jul 20-23 Dubrovnik Summer Festival & Croatian National Theatre of Zagreb Euripides: MEDEA Tomaž Pandur, Director

Jul 21 Liszt vs. Chopin Bogányi Gergely, Piano

Jul 22

1913. – The Rite of Music Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra Kodály Choir, Debrecen Mladen Tarbuk, Conductor

Aug 9 NEW YORK EN DIRECT Matija Dedić, Piano Scott Colley, Double-bass Antonio Sanchez, Drums

Aug 10-12 Festival Drama Ensemble V. Stulli: KATE KAPURALICA Dario Harjaček, Director

Aug 13– 17

Collectife Lodge 22, Lyon, Art Workshop Lazareti & Dubrovnik Summer Festival Saša Božić: THE BEATLES

PREMIERE Dubrovnik Summer Festival FATHER COURAGE Concept and Direction: Boris Bakal & Shadow casters

Jul 24

Aug 15

Dialogos Ensemble based on Marko Marulić’s Judith and Croatian Medieval Agonies: JUDITH

FINGER PLAY BY FINGER & HAL Peter Finger, Guitar Damir Halilić - Hal, Guitar

Jul 25

LONDON SINFONIETTA

Elogio Guitar Trio Petrit Çeku, Pedro Ribeiro Rodrigues, Tomislav Vukšić

Jul 26 Rufus Wainwright solo

Jul 28-31 PREMIERE Festival Drama Ensemble Bobo Jelčić & Nataša Rajković Project: ALLONS ENFANTS

Jul 29 Hommage à Milka Trnina Dubravka Mušović Šeparović, Mezzosoprano Đorđe Stanetti, Piano

Aug 16 Aug 18 Lana Trotovšek, Violin Simon Lane, Piano

Aug 19–24 Festival Drama Ensemble PREMIERE Plato: TRIAL OF SOCRATES Tomi Janežič, Director

Aug 22 Bonne Anniversaire M. Debussy Enrico Dindo, cello

Aug 23 Mozes Rosenberg, Mate Matišić, Guitars Jurica Štelma, Double-bass

Jul 30

Aug 25

CANTUS ENSEMBLE Berislav Šipuš, Conductor

Croatian Radio and Television Symphony Orchestra

Jul 30 TRIKO CIRCUS THEATER THE NIGHTINGALE Lee Delong, Director and Dramaturge

Jul 31 Robert Glasper Experiment & Mos Def

Aug 1, 2 Croatian National Theatre of Osijek I. Š. Kuči: UNTERSTADT Zlatko Sviben, Director

Dubrovnik Summer Festival More than 100 art performances in stunning historical settings The bustling walled city of Dubrovnik hosts its spectacular and one of the oldest European Festivals – the Dubrovnik Summer Festival - presenting rich and vibrant theatre, classical music, opera, ballet, jazz, film and fine arts program.

The ambience and the City as a unique meeting place of the world's and Croatia's finest artists remain the basic features of the forthcoming 64th Festival. Impressive array of finest artists, chamber ensembles and orchestras from all around the world will be performing this summer on remarkable squares, palaces, churches, gardens and streets of historical city of Dubrovnik.

Theatre Programme The premiere theatre programme will open with the authorial project by Bobo Jelčić entitled Allons enfants, based on the plays Uncle Maroje (the first venue being Gundulić Square), Allons enfants (taking place at the City Hall), Hekuba (in an apartment in Kantafig) and in various venues around the City including squares, streets, houses and apartments, which hide stories that must be told. The project Father Courage by Boris Bakal and Bacači sjenki is based on Brecht's text and his politic and theatrical intentions. Taking place in the City's streets and squares, this interdisciplinary play deals with courage, responsibility and survival at any cost. Plato's monodrama The Trial of Socrates will be staged by the Slovenian theatre director Tomi Janežič, exploring conformism, the people's courage to think for themselves, questions of authority and young people, democracy, home, exile, the death penalty and death itself, i.e., the distance which Europe has covered from the time of Ancient Greece and the so called Ancient Greek ideals the western world claims to have derived from.

Much to the audience's delight, the legendary play Equinox – premiered at the 55th Dubrovnik Summer Festival,

on the Island of Lokrum and directed by Joško Juvančić – returns to the Festival repertoire. The repeat performances include three hit plays: Stulli's Kate Kapuralica directed by Dario Harjaček; Danton's Death by Georg Büchner, directed by Oliver Frljić; and Euripides' classical play Medea directed by Tomaž Pandur.

The guest performances include the last year's best Croatian play Unterstadt

by I.Š. Kuči, directed by Zlatko Sviben.

Produced by the Croatian National Theatre of Osijek, the play has been awarded the best play prize, the best direction prize and the audience's play of the year. The Nightingale - directed

by Lee Delong and performed by the Triko Cirkus Teatar - is the first fulllength clown play for grown-ups in Croatia, promising the audience plenty of laughter. This year's programme also includes the Triko Cirkus Teatar with a large number of street theatre performances. This work-in-progress project will be performed in three seven-day cycles, and the performers include five clowns – circus artists and two musicians. The topics and structure of the plays will be changed on a daily basis, from the «walk on stilts» performances to the Street Circus Cabaret spectacle.

EVENTS

Music and Dance Programme The music programme is based on the 1813-1913-2013 time span. The two centuries saw major changes in European music, which was trying to evolve from an occasional art form into absolute art. Both born in 1813, Verdi and Wagner played essential roles in this transformation, and so did the two pieces first performed around 1913: Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring and Ravel's Daphnis et Chloe.

The Scenes from Verdi operas and Wagner music dramas will be performed by the Symphony Orchestra of the Zagreb University's Academy of Music and a number of soloists conducted by Ira Levin, while the programme 1913 – The Rite of Music will be performed by the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Kodály Philharmonic Choir of Debrecen under the baton of Mladen Tarbuk. The audience will have the opportunity to listen to the London Sinfonietta – prestigious orchestra specialised in performing contemporary classical music – and several concerts of the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra. The recitals include performances by the pianists Gergely Bogányi and Elena Bashkirova, the violinist Lana Trotovšek and the cellist Enrico Dindo. The mezzosoprano Dubravka Mušović Šeparović accompanied by Đorđe Stanetti on the piano will mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Croatian opera diva Milka Trnina. Other performers include the Cantus Ensemble & guests conducted by Berislav Šipuš, Igor Lešnik and the biNg bang percussion ensemble, the Elogio Guitar Trio - a member of which is the Festival audience's favourite Petrit Çeku - and the guitar duo Peter Finger & Damir Halilić Hal. The Dialogos Ensemble will perform the musical monodrama Judita, based on the Croatian Medieval

agonies, while the bass-baritone Krešimir Stražanac, the pianist Cornelis Witthoeft and the reciter Urša Raukar will perform Brahms' The Beautiful Magelona. The Festival's jazz programme will feature the American ensemble Robert Glasper Experiment which successfully combines various African American music styles creating a unique modern sound and rhythm of the modern New York. Other performers include Rufus Wainwright - one of the finest Canadian-American composer-singers of the young generation, winner of numerous awards, characterized by his original style combining elements of classical and baroque music with the subtle pop sound and intimate verses – and the jazz trio Matija Dedić, piano, Scott Colley double bass and Antonio Sanchez, drums performing the programme entitled New York en direct. Celebrating Croatia's joining the European Union, the Music Without Frontiers Foundation, London, the Agevent Agency, Dubrovnik, and the Dubrovnik Summer Festival will present Mozart's opera Così fan tutte in the Art School Park. The opera will be directed by Sally Burgess and performed by the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra conducted by Oliver Gilmour.

Linđo Folklore Ensemble of Dubrovnik will present traditional Croatian folk dances and songs.

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival's Film Programme in collaboration with the Dubrovnik Cinemas will take place from 11 July to 24 August, at the open-air cinemas Jadran and Slavica.

The programme will feature a selection of finest films from the Pula Film Festival, will feature films based on dramatic works and present renowned film artists.

Visit: www.dubrovnik-festival.hr

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CROATIAN WINES www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Welcome to the wonderful world of wine Croatian wines are certainly among the best in the world. Every once in a while, a lucky wine lover will encounter a special vintage that changes the game, shifts the boundaries of perception, and leaves one mystified, gaping like a beached fish, overwhelmed by the mysteries of the universe by the inexplicable ways that wine evolves in the bottle. A wine that transcends this world and dispatches the drinker’s consciousness into a parallel dimension where muses enlighten, angels and deities celebrate, and the sands of time flow not to make us old but to revive us with revelations and new discoveries.

In 2009, Croatia shocked the wine world by walking away with eight gold medals at the prestigious Decanter Wine Awards.

Thank God for Croatian whites!” was the eye-catching headline when the leading British wine magazine Decanter reported its first World Wine Competition. Venje 1998, a white wine made by Slavonian producer Ivan Enjingi from Graševina, Riesling, Grey Pinot, Traminac and Sauvignon grapes, won the prestigious title of World Champion in the £10 or less category, and other Croatian wines won told, silver and bronze medals. Decanter’s review went on to praise in glowing terms the originality of Croatian white wines and the characteristic combination of freshness and aroma to be found in the best examples.

Decanter’s tasting experts are by no means alone in their appreciation of Croatian wine. In his best-selling Pocket Wine Guide, Hugh Johanson, one of the world’s most respected wine critics, has been giving rare reviews to the best Croatian producers for years: Matošević and Kozlović in Istria, Krauthaker and Enjingi in Slavonia, Plenković and Grgić in Dalmatia.

But if the achievements of the best Croatian wine growers have won recognition in the trade and the highest level of wine connoisseurship, their wines remain largely unknown outside Croatia and

have no significant market presence, for the simple reason that they are produced in too small quantity to be marketed internationally. So the best Croatian wines can only be enjoyed in Croatia. Potentially this is a great selling point for Croatian tourism, but only on condition that discerning visitors know what to order.

WINE REGIONS IN CROATIA There are three important winegrowing regions in Croatia: Slavonia, in the little-visited east of the country; and the coastal regions of Istria and Southern Dalmatia, which are more familiar to tourists.

Slavonia’s production is mostly white wine, made from familiar international grape varieties, notably Graševina (Laški Riesling, Welschriesling). Excellent results are also being achieved with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Grey Pinot. Slavonian sweet wines, the best of which are made by wine manufacturer Kutjevački podrumi (using Graševina and Traminac) stand comparison with the world’s best dessert wines in quality and price.

Slavonian red wine, however, is best avoided.

In the extreme north west of Croatia, the coastal peninsula of Istria is also predominantly a whitewine region. Istrian wine growers have made spectacular progress in recent years, and more than one hundred cellars now produce

technically impeccable, fresh, clean white wines, the predominant grape being Malvasia Istriana. Despite the name, this is not genetically related to Spanish, Italian or Greek Malvasias. Another important Istrian grape variety is White Muscat, which is used to produce excellent dessert wines in Western Istria, near the Momjana area. Istria’s most significant red wine is Teran, which is related to the Italian and Slovenian Refosco. Some wine makers are achieving good results with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Central Dalmatian islands and the Pelješac Peninsula in southern Dalmatia has the potential to become the most important wine-growing area in Croatia, both for its unrivalled climate and a landscape ideally suited to Plavac Mali, the leading indigenous grape variety. After Plavac, the next most important Dalmatian grape variety is Pošip, a white grape closely associated with the beautiful island of Korčula, which produces excellent dry wine with fruity and floral flavours.

Like its cousin the Californian Zinfandel, Plavac Mali descends from the Crljenac wine from Kaštela. It can produce some of Europe’s best southern red wines, with earthy Mediterranean aromas of plums, rosemary and olives. The bouquet of an outstanding Plavac wine is unmistakable, and its rich texture full of strong tannins and high in alcohol.

The best examples from the Pelješac Peninsula come from the Dingač, Postup and Ponikve areas, while Ivan Dolac and Medvid count among the most important Plavac vineyards on the island of Hvar.

The best Plavac wines are quite expensive, but well worth the cost, despite the fact that most of them are marketed too young. Finest Plavac should be treated the same way as Brunello: don’t let it out of the cellar for at least five years.

Elegant and poised yet intensely aromatic on the nose. The light, translucent garnet color betraying its bold notes of dried fig, dusty dried cherry, black olive, iodine, wet limestone, and hint of black truffle. The more closely you become acquainted with the Dingač area and its output, the more you will come to understand how original and precious Croatian wine can be.

They say that life is made up of moments, that at the end when we look back on our individual lives, certain fragments of time will blink like stars in a dark sky, that along the timeline of our lives certain small personal interactions or experiences will be recalled with laser clarity.

So, whether a special wine serves to complement your meal or to celebrate an important occasion, make sure the wine you choose is truly remarkable. If you enjoy it responsibly, it might be one of the best things life has thrown your way.

Dubrovnik Old Town

Unique fish specialities inspired by the traditional dishes of Dubrovnik fishermen Proto is proud to have played host to Edward VIII, former king of England, and his wife, Wallis Simpson

Special offer: Light Lunch Široka no.1 - Sixth street on the right from the Pile Gate | tel: +385 (0) 20 32 32 34 | Open: 11:00 – 23:00

www.esculap-teo.hr

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EVENTS

Starry Summer Nights Jul. 10

Buco & Srđan

Hotel Excelsior

Jul. 19

Damir Urban

Hotel Dubrovnik Palace

Aug. 9

Jelena Radan & Meritas

Grand Villa Argentina

Arsen, Gabi and Matija Dedić

Hotel Excelsior

Tony Cetinski

Hotel Dubrovnik Palace

N CO ĐA BU SR & RB AN

Sep. 3

U

Aug. 26

This is the ninth year that Adriatic Luxury Hotels is organizing a summer music entertainment program under the expressive name “Stars beneath the Stars”, for the city of Dubrovnik and its guests.

The beaches, terraces, and gardens of our 5-star hotels serve as breathtaking open stages where concerts are held under the stars.

Dubrovnik is a world-famous destination whose remarkable historical monuments and breathtaking coastal scenery never fail to enchant. It is also a vibrant cultural centre, particularly during the summer months, when the city blossoms with art exhibitions, concerts, and theatrical performances, including the famous Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

International music from all genres (jazz, rock, pop, Portuguese fado, Cuban music, and more) as well as prestigious Croatian musicians has made this music event one of the most visited in Dubrovnik.

But there is more to Dubrovnik’s cultural season. The “Stars beneath the Stars” series, hosted by Adriatic Luxury Hotels, has earned its place on the cultural calendar, adding lustre and festivity to the warm summer evenings, with a star line-up of celebrity performers.

BUCO & SRĐAN

This exclusive program of summer performances has become a popular addition to Dubrovnik’s summer scene since it first began in 2005. A dozen or so concerts and parties are held at magnificent locations at ALH hotels in Dubrovnik: the Palm Garden of the Hotel Excelsior, the Nevera Beach Bar at the Hotel Bellevue, the Vala Club at the Dubrovnik Palace Hotel, the beach at Hotel Croatia, or the enchanting gardens of Grand Villa Argentina, with live performances by international and local musicians. In eight years, some 350 musicians and entertainers have delighted more than 10,000 local residents and tourists.

The Palm Terrace of the Excelsior Hotel offers magnificent views of the city. The highlight of the Summer Festival’s grand opening night is the fireworks, staged on the beach just below the hotel. This is why Excelsior is considered one of the best places to enjoy the fireworks to the fullest.

The varied program includes acts such as The Rat Pack Show, well known bands such as The Drifters, and tribute evenings celebrating the music of legends such as Elvis Presley and Abba. Many of ALH’s star performers have caught the eye of the local and foreign press, who turn out in force for these well-attended festive summer evenings.

DAMIR URBAN

Numerous prominent contemporary Croatian musicians have performed with the program. The introduction of international music stars became a regular part of the program several years ago and since then we have brought internationally recognized musicians and ‘tribute’ bands who add an exotic flair.

This summer, Adriatic Luxury Hotels proudly present:

4 Decades Later, The Grand Opening of the 63rd Dubrovnik Summer Festival Location: Palm Terrace, Hotel Excelsior Date: 10 July 2013 Starting Time: 21:00

Complementing this traditional Dubrovnik summer night, Buco & Srđan will perform their greatest songs, taking us back to the time of their youth, love and romance. Come hear why music critics have called this guitar duo "Dubrovnik’s own Simon & Garfunkel."

Urban on the Rocks Location: Vala Beach Club, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace Date: 19 July 2013 Starting Time: 21:00 With his classic Goth look of black skirts or long trench coats, makeup and knee-high Doc Martens, Damir Urban has a keen sense for drama and an unmistakable charisma. And Vala Beach makes the perfect setting under the steep rocks of the shore, the music sounds even more dramatic and the scene becomes that much more theatrical.

ALH TIMES 15

EVENTS

JELENA RADAN & MERITAS When Tomorrow Comes Location: The garden, Grand Villa Argentina Date: 9 August 2013 Starting Time: 21:00 "When Tomorrow Comes" is a musical concept created by combining the highly individual sensibilities and characters of the Meritas duo and Jelena Radan. The program relies on a simple recipe: songs that inspire them, texts that have moved them, and authors who have influenced their artistic sense and identity. It is a concert they would gladly attend themselves.

These three distinctive vocalists interpret attitudes, thoughts, moods and melodies of some of the greatest songwriters, including Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morissette, k.d. lang, Annie Lennox, Joan Osborne, Natalie Imbruglia, Feist, The Pretenders, Crowded House, The Rolling Stones and many more.

In doing so, they go beyond cosmopolitan-drinking-ladies night, making Lemmon Drop or White Lady much more fitting with the „fresh“ interpretations and light summer breeze at Grand Villa Argentina Gardens.

d

an

Location: Palm Terrace, Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik Date: 26 August 2013 Starting Time: 21:00 Don’t expect a concert -- expect a performance, a storyline of time, love and family.

Witness the synergy of songwriter and poet, the first lady of Croatian classics and one of our award-winning pianists and a celebrated jazz musician, who together have recorded more than 60 albums.

In this retrospective of their individual and collaborative successes, Arsen, Gabi and Matija create an intimate, relaxed, cabaret-style atmosphere, entertaining you with the same fervour as they did years ago.

Just like in a true family, the concert dynamics constantly change. Arsen's poetic recitals are mixed with Matija's piano performances and Gabi's distinctive classics. As they complement, criticize, and motivate each other, the audience at Excelsior's Palm's can just sit back, laugh, enjoy and reminisce.

N & AR M AD ER A IT N AS

For this concert at Vala Beach, Urban & 4 will present a slightly softer, unplugged show.

Reflections

LE

Combining the sound of heavy rock with rustic grunge, and "soft-house" dance rhythms, Urban was the first in the region to adopt the modern pop sound of today’s young bands, among which his personal favourite is Chris Martin’s Coldplay.

ARSEN, GABI and MATIJA DEDIĆ

JE

A fixture on the Croatian music scene for more than 30 years, both as the frontman of Laufer and later as part of Urban & 4, Damir performs songs that reflect a strong vision and artistic integrity.

AR S M GA EN AT B DE IJ I DI A Ć

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

TONY CETINSKI Romance a la Carte Location: Vala Beach Club, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace Date: 3 September 2013 Starting Time: 21:00 Tony Cetinski, one of Croatia’s most beloved pop singers, returns to perform for Dubrovnik’s audience under the stars.

For this Vala Beach concert Toni promises the best of his new album, spiced with old classics. Against a backdrop of high rocks on one side of the stage, and the open Adriatic Sea on the other, we don't doubt it will be a starry summer night to remember.

Y KI N NS TO ETI C

For fans yet to become, Tony’s style is best described as not shying away from crossover. He fuses a pop repertoire with both classical and rock influences. Strong vocal performances with musicians such as Jose Carreras, Placido Domingo, Montserrat Caballé, and Michael Bolton have earned him sustained applause and standing ovations, but it is the passion and energy he puts into his work that have brought him on the very top of the Croatian music scene.

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HOTEL EXCELSIOR - 100 YEARS www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

HOTEL EXCELSIOR DUBROVNIK HONOURING OUR GUESTS SINCE 1913

This year, the legendary Hotel Excelsior celebrates its 100th birthday. In the century since it opened in July 1913, the Excelsior has become an iconic landmark among the five-star hotels of Dubrovnik. This time-honoured building – a blend of old and new – is uniquely located on a cliff top, with magnificent views from every floor, of the island of Lokrum in one direction and the Old Town in the other.

Hotel Excelsior - 1930s

Excelsior is not only one of the leading luxury hotels in Dubrovnik, it is also a living record of the historical and cultural development of the city itself. Few hotels in Croatia have more than a hundred years of history linked to the major intellectual, social, cultural and artistic movements of the times.

Famous guests

A city icon known at the beginning of the 20th century as ‘Villa Odak’, the hotel has been at the centre of the tumultuous changes of history, a symbol of the aristocratic tastes of the decades. Its social role in both the past and present has made it a unique place, a living icon in the city.

Neither the two World Wars nor the hardships of the most recent Croatian War for Independence could close its doors; they were always open to offer the best possible service.

Perhaps the destiny of the Excelsior

was marked from the beginning by its location. From the start, the building’s proximity to the famous city walls meant that people from the world of politics, business, travel, journalism, the arts and letters frequented the hotel. It also became fashionable for wealthy families to organize gatherings for weddings, baptisms, birthdays and private parties in the hotel’s halls and terraces, and tributes and events of high social relevance were staged here.

A glittering procession of celebrities, cultural icons, state visitors and international royalty has passed through the Excelsior’s doors in its 100-year history.

ALH TIMES 17

HOTEL EXCELSIOR - 100 YEARS www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

As the saying goes, no visit to the city is complete without a coffee on the terrace of the Excelsior.

Those who can charge the coffee to their room bill have the satisfaction of knowing that they are staying in the right place at the right time: right now.

Hotel Excelsior - today

The glamorous Wall of Fame displayed near the Abakus piano bar showcases photo portraits of our most famous guests: Queen Elizabeth II, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Sir Roger Moore and, most recently, legendary film director Francis Ford Coppola, Kevin Spacey and Morgan Freeman, to name just a few.

Known for its elite location and flawless hospitality, the Hotel Excelsior has long been the first choice for discerning travellers in Dubrovnik.

Through all the changes of its long history, the Excelsior has been known for peerless service and impeccable guest relations. It’s the atmosphere of the hotel, and the personal quality of welcome, that bring so many guests back, time and again.

Over the course of its history, Hotel Excelsior has undergone numerous renovations essential to adapt the building to technical innovations and greater comfort. Recently refurbished to an exceptional standard, the Excelsior is renowned for its personal touch. Each of the 158 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites is stylish

and comfortable, with spacious, modern bathrooms. Our spa facilities are considered the most luxurious on the Adriatic.

The Excelsior Hotel boasts an outstanding seafront position.

Remaining true to the history and culture of Dubrovnik, whilst maintaining a home away from home feel, each of the suites are outfitted with art by renowned Dubrovnik artists, specially designed furniture, and rare unique artefacts which lend to its charming ambience. Furbished to an exceptional standard and recognized for flawless and discrete service, Hotel Excelsior became a popular choice of celebrities and visiting dignitaries.

Travellers interested in re-living the hotel’s storied history can sip vintage cocktails in the Abakus bar and terrace.

We invite you try our special cocktails inspired by our most famous guests, to book the Centennial Celebration package, which includes accommodations, breakfast for two, two vintage cocktails and a box of chocolate truffles.

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HOTEL EXCELSIOR - 100 YEARS www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

HOTEL EXCELSIOR DUBROVNIK

100 YEARS TIMELINE 1913 Dubrovnik hotelier Robert Odak opens the Hotel Villa Odak in a beautiful seaside location overlooking the island of Lokrum, the city walls of Dubrovnik and the historic harbour.

1914 -1918 World War I

1941 – 1945 World War II

1944 During the war years, occupying forces make their headquarters in Hotel Excelsior. In 1944 the hotel is shelled and badly damaged by Allied aviation forces.

1930

1947

After several changes of ownership, the new owner, William D. Zindin, relaunches the hotel under a new name - Hotel Excelsior.

Hotel Excelsior reopens for business.

1936 King Edward VIII and his fiancée Wallis Simpson stay in Hotel Excelsior during their visit to Dubrovnik.

Construction begins on an entire new facility.

1941 Hotel reopens with a grand opening ceremony on 1 April.

1950s Mickey Rooney stays in Hotel Excelsior.

Sir Fitzroy Maclean, a diplomat, politician, historian, traveller and soldier, often cited as the inspiration for Ian Fleming’s legendary secret agent, James Bond, is a regular guest at Hotel Excelsior.

Late 1950s The famous French philosopher and Nobel Prize winner Jean Paul Sartre stays at Hotel Excelsior.

1958

1975

Renowned Croatian architect Neven Šegvic begins construction of a new adjoining building.

New hotel opens with 329 rooms.

Tavern Rustica opens in the former Arthur Evans summerhouse on a rocky perch on the eastern side of the Hotel Excelsior. It soon becomes one of the most famous fine-dining restaurants in the Mediterranean.

1960s

1977

Orson Welles, Jackie Kennedy and Yul Brenner are among the guests at Hotel Excelsior.

Danish Queen Margaret visits Dubrovnik and stays in Hotel Excelsior.

1965

1969 Apollo 11 lands on the Moon

1970s Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren and Carlo Ponti are among the guests at Hotel Excelsior.

1972 Queen Elizabeth II visits Dubrovnik and stays in Hotel Excelsior.

1980 British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher stays in Hotel Excelsior.

1988 Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Gorbachev spends his holidays in Dubrovnik and stays in Hotel Excelsior.

1989 Fall of the Berlin Wall 1991- 1995 Croatian Patriotic War for Independence

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HOTEL EXCELSIOR - 100 YEARS www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

1990s

2000

The hotel becomes a home for thousands of war refugees.

Hotel Excelsior becomes a flagship hotel under the Adriatic Luxury Hotels brand.

1997 Complete renovation of the Hotel Excelsior begins.

1998 Hotel Excelsior reopens as the first five-star hotel in Croatia.

2000s Japanese princess Sayako Kuroda, Princess Caroline of Monaco, Sir Roger Moore, Woody Harrelson, and Morgan Freeman stay in Hotel Excelsior.

2004 Launch of Facebook

2008 Tavern Rustica becomes the luxurious Villa Agave. The first guest is Oscarwinning actor Kevin Spacey.

2012 Francis Ford Coppola returns to Dubrovnik after 50 years and stays in Hotel Excelsior.

20 ALH TIMES

EVENTS www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Events in Dubrovnik EXHIBITION - “REVELIN – ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH / SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT / FOUNDRY“ January 1– December 31, 2013 (except Wednesdays) Fort Revelin PERFORMANCES OF FOLKLORE ENSEMBLE LINĐO May 3 – July 9 / August 27 - October 15, 2013 (Tuesdays and Fridays at 21:30) Summer Cinema Jadran The Linđo Folk Ensemble was founded in Dubrovnik in 1964 and consists of more than 300 members between the ages of 12 and 30, who perform traditional songs and dances from all regions of Croatia. With their youthful enthusiasm and traditional costumes, they celebrate the heritage of our people.

EXHIBITION – STJEPAN GRADIĆ May 18 – September 18, 2013 Rector's Palace DUBROVNIK CHAMBER TRIO April 6 - July 6 / August 31 – October 26, 2013 (Saturdays at 21:00) Domino church Enjoy English and French Baroque compositions performed by some of Dubrovnik's most accomplished musicians every Saturday at 21:00 SORKOČEVIĆ QUARTET CONCERT April 1 – July 8 / August 26 – October 28, 2013 (Mondays at 21:00) St. Saviour’s Church Founded in 1988, the Sorkočević Quartet has been acknowledged as one of the city’s finest chamber music ensembles, promoting Dubrovnik’s local musical heritage and chamber music from throughout Europe every Monday at 21:00. The Quartet performs regularly at the Church of the Holy Saviour (Sv. Spas) in Dubrovnik.

DUBROVNIK STRING QUARTET CONCERT April 3 - July 3 / August 28 – October 30, 2013 (Wednesdays at 21:00) St. Saviour's church Featuring a wide repertoire and many distinguished guests, the Dubrovnik String Quartet has performed classical, Baroque, romantic, contemporary and Croatian compositions in several countries including Austria, Italy, Germany and Great Britain.

LE PETIT FESTIVAL DU THETARE June 21 – 28, 2013 The theme of Le Petit Festival 2013 is “The Beauty of Women.” This innovative festival is one of the most recent additions to Dubrovnik’s diverse cultural offerings. This year’s festival will be held from June 21-28

in Dubrovnik and features photography, theatre, music, dance, and yoga from an eclectic mix of international artists.

MUSIC FESTIVAL - PARK ORSULA June – September 2013 One of Dubrovnik’s newest outdoor performance spaces is located just off the main highway that leads out of town towards the airport. Set high on a hill, amidst the restored ruins of a 14th century chapel, with stunning views of the Old Town and Lokrum, Park Orsula hosts a variety of musical performances throughout the summer months.

Jun. 15 Jun. 21 Jun. 28 Jul. 6 Jul. 13 Jul. 19 - 20

Jul. 26 Jul. 30 Aug. 2 Aug. 10 Aug. 17

Opening ceremony: Vasil Hadžimanov Band HIP HOP forum: Dječaci, Kandžija, General Woo Meri Cetinić - retrospektiva Svadbas, Quasarr, Izae - rock marathon Teofilovići i Miroslav Tadić - Balkan ethno Blues Weekend: Bebe na vole, Gruhak, Kukac & Friends, Harpoon Blues Band Neno Belan & Fiumens / unplugged Vlada Divljan & Ljetno kino Damir Kukuruzović Gipsy Swing Quartet Sevdah Takht Damira Imamovića Vlatko Stefanovski Trio

MUSICAL THEATER FESTIVAL "ANA IN THE CITY" June 21 – 23, 2013 This four-day festival features cellist Ana Rucner, a young artist of distinctive musical style, in a dual role - a classical musician and a crossover instrumentalist.

DUBROVNIK INTERNATIONAL OPERA FESTIVAL – HOMMAGE TINO PATTIERA July 3 – 6, 2013 The festival honours the memory of the world famous tenor Tino Pattiera, who was born in 1890 in Cavtat, a town about 20km from Dubrovnik, where he died in 1966. Tino Pattiera was one of the major singers in the opera houses of Europe and throughout the world during the first half of the 20th century. He was also the leading singer at the Royal Saxon Court Opera in Dresden.

“WILD LEAGUE” WATERPOLO July 19 – August 11, 2013 The tradition of amateur water polo teams in Dubrovnik dates back to 1922, but by the 1980's many started to think that this tradition had disappeared. However, local sport enthusiast Ivo Kolić revitalized this tradition, and organized what has now become the largest amateur water polo competition in the world. Teams from various local neighbourhoods compete at beach locations throughout the city.

CULTURE CLUB REVELIN Hours: Until June 1, 2013, the club is open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 23:00—06:00.

From June 1 -- October 1, 2013, the club is open every night.

Culture Club Revelin night club is located in the Revelin fortress at the entrance to the Old Town at Ploče Gate. Considered the place for night life in Dubrovnik, it’s famous for its 3-day festival held in August, when Revelin presents the most famous performers on the global electronic music scene. Culture Club Revelin organizes events every day in the week throughout the whole year, so that every visitor, regardless of age or taste in music, can have a unique and memorable night out in Dubrovnik.

DUBROVNIK EARLY MUSIC FESTIVAL October 5 – 13, 2013 The Dubrovnik Early Music Festival creates a harmonious unity of architecture and sound. Like no other festival in this part of the world, it travels far into the past to revive the music of ancient Greece and Rome, Turkey and the Middle East, which influenced European composers, eternal Indian ragas and more contemporary European pieces.

INTERNATIONAL CHOIR FESTIVAL October 10 – 12, 2013 Attracting a number of choirs from the region and around Europe, this festival has been running since 2004. The programme is divided into two sections, the first for a capella performances, the second for at least one composition per choir, culminating in a joint performance by all participating choirs. Venues are the Jesuit Church with a finale at the Revelin Fortress.

CHRISTMAS FAIR December 13, 2013 – January 6, 2014 During the Advent season, Dubrovnik shines with magical decorations and sparkles with lights, creating an atmosphere of a fairy-tale Renaissance city. The Christmas Fair features traditional arts and crafts, Christmas decorations, candles, toys, glassware, embroidery, ceramics, porcelain and a variety of other hand-made souvenirs and gifts by local artists. Traditional Christmas cookies, and Dubrovnik sweet delicacies prepared especially for the holiday season, are also available.

DUBROVNIK NEW YEAR’S PARTY December 31, 2014 On New Year’s Eve, the musicians of Dubrovnik see the old year out with traditional carols and an all-day music program leading up to the wildest night of the year. The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra’s New Year’s Day concert on the Stradun on January 1 will be a special gift to those visiting the city.

FESTIVAL OF ST. BLAISE February 2--3, 2014 Each February 2nd, Dubrovnik celebrates the Virgin Mary Candlemas.

An old saying is then repeated: Candelora, winter is gone, followed

by Saint Blaise, who says it is untrue?

Indeed, on this day, Dubrovnik is full of mimosa, narcissus, and sunny, spring weather. On the morning of the festival, white doves are released in front of St. Blaise’s church, and prayers are said in front of the altar by the faithful the entire day. The priests bless everyone with a cross shaped out of two intertwined candles, and raise a silver monstrance to their lips, the work of Dubrovnik goldsmiths.

The monstrance contains a bone from the throat of the saint known as a miracle-worker in Sebaste, who healed by touch.

DUBROVNIK CARNIVAL FESTIVITIES February, 2014 Our ancestors had fun, so why shouldn’t we? This proverb can often be heard in Dubrovnik in February, during the carnival season preceding Lent. This is the time when everything is allowed, when people become someone else or show their true faces through costumed parties and masked parades. Experience the special atmosphere of the Dubrovnik carnival festivities characterized by jokes, laughter, merriment, joy, satire… feel the special spirit of the city at carnival time!

EASTER FAIR April 19 – 29, 2014 Dubrovnik celebrates Easter and the coming of spring with a series of programs from Palm Sunday to Easter Monday each year. Certainly, the most interesting part of the program is the traditional Easter Fair, an opportunity to see and purchase unique handmade souvenirs and gifts made by local crafters. Of special importance are the crosses woven by hand from palm fronds, and the hand-painted Easter eggs, featuring intricate and unique designs made with deep red natural dyes.

AKLAPELA – VOCAL GROUP FESTIVAL April 25 – 27, 2014 Aklapela is a yearly gathering of the most accomplished klapa a cappella singing groups in Croatia. Concert performances feature both men’s and women’s groups, in this traditional vocal style. The festival is held after Easter, during the season when everything is waking up, a time of new beginnings. This gathering is not a competition, but rather a presentation of the best „klapa“, mingling of the authors, artists, “klapa” managers with the audience as the heart of this project.

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HOTEL INFORMATION - GASTRONOMY www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Gastronomy HOTEL EXCELSIOR SATU Sushi Bar & Restaurant

The Satu sushi bar & restaurant neighbours the Abakus piano bar. Our sushi chef transforms fresh fish into delicious sushi and sashimi specialties, right in front of you. Authentic Japanese needlework decorates the room providing a traditional yet festive atmosphere. Arrive at sunset and enjoy a beautiful view of sun-kissed Dubrovnik with the range of Japanese specialties and culinary delights—you’ll find it’s a unique dining experience.

Working hours: 06:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Secret tip: enjoy in combination of Far east and Mediterranean

PRORA Beach Restaurant

This lovely sea-front restaurant, filled with music and featuring stunning views of Dubrovnik, offers light salads, appetizers, fresh seafood and meats cooked to your preferences. The beach restaurant Prora is the finest romantic dining getaway.

Working hours: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Secret tip: just sit down outside and enjoy in a “million dollar” view

ABAKUS Piano Bar Enjoy the intimate atmosphere of the attractive Abakus piano bar terrace with your favourite cocktail, while soaking up the evening’s live piano music. Visit the Abakus Piano Bar and relax in its comfortable setting with good music, perfect drinks and great friends, and here everyone is a friend – that is the true spirit of Dubrovnik and the Mediterranean.

Working hours: 07:00 a.m. – 01:00 a.m.

Secret tip: on the left side of the bar is the hotel’s “Gallery of fame “ where you can see most of famous Excelsior’s guests

HOTEL BELLEVUE VAPOR Fine Dining Restaurant Fine-dining restaurant Vapor offers an international a la carte menu, a selection of quality wines and carefully chosen Dalmatian dishes. The restaurant is one of the finest in the

city of Dubrovnik, offering a peaceful and intimate setting with sea views to be enjoyed from both the interior and its spacious terrace.

Working hours: 06:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. / 06:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Secret tip: ask for a tasting menu. If available we highly recommend it.

NEVERA Beach Reataurant Beach restaurant Nevera is a unique dining experience, offering the best of Dalmatian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Dine on a pebbly beach in Dubrovnik, or relax in your bathing suit while enjoying a lobster grilled au point, served on locally picked rocket salad.

In the evening, taste the fresh, grilled fish from the islands, and some of the world’s finest calamari while sampling Croatia’s most exclusive wines.

Working hours: 11:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m.

Secret tip: for seafood lovers, order oysters served just on ice with a lemon, you will taste the sea in all of its glory

HOTEL DUBROVNIK PALCE MASLINA Tavern Maslina Tavern provides a relaxed and informal dining experience by the sea.

A traditional Dubrovnik-style tavern, the restaurant has beautiful views over the Elaphite Islands.

Working hours: 12:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Secret tip: reserve it for a romantic dinner. Sea view, summer air and romantic sunset… an ideal romantic scenery for ‘the proposal’

VICTORIA Restaurant and Lounge Bar Victoria Restaurant offers a gastronomic adventure with spectacular views of Dubrovnik Old Town, while combining contemporary elegance, an intimate ambience and immaculate service. At the Lounge Bar you can enjoy the delicious cocktails.

Working hours: 07:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Secret tip: ideal combination – cocktail at the lounge & dinner afterwards at the restaurant, all time having an amazing view of Dubrovnik

Brassiere LA CARAVELLE La Caravelle Restaurant extends onto a vast outside terrace overlooking sweeping gardens, clear blue waters and the Old Town of Dubrovnik.

La Caravelle welcomes guests with an intimate atmosphere, personal attention and well trained staff.

The open-air terrace of La Caravelle is an ideal place to enjoy a sunny breakfast. To remember at La Caravelle restaurant, experience a candlelit dinner. La Caravelle serves Croatian and International specialties that will tempt your appetite.

Working hours: 07:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Secret tip: try the French onion soup

Working hours: 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m. / 07:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Secret tip: take table on a sea font and chose your own fish from the water tank

HOTEL KOMPAS Restaurant & Pizzeria SEDNA

LEAN & LIGHT bar Lean & light bar next to the Wellness & spa centre, this bar offers you a wide selection of healthy and tasty food.

Working hours: 08:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Secret tip: you can combine your own smoothies

SUNSET LOUNGE

GRAND VILLA ARGENTINA

those places that simply radiate true Mediterranean summer life-style, offering locally caught fish and grill specialties inspired by Dalmatian cuisine. Find yourself tucked away along the seashore surrounded by pine trees, right on the promenade and with splendid views of the Cavtat bay.

The main bar and lounge of the Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, with a panoramic view like no other. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while sipping your cocktail over a breathtaking sunset.

Working hours: 07:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Secret tip: absolutely greatest spot for fantastic sundown over sea

HOTEL CROATIA CAVTAT STEAK HOUSE Consistently ranked as one of the best hotel restaurants in Croatia, the Steak House offers à la carte fare of the highest quality. Guests can observe their meal being prepared in our open grill kitchen.

It has with a fantastic view of ancient Cavtat and its whole bay. Steak House Restaurant is serving casual Dinner using fresh ingredients (quality meat cuts, salads).

Working hours: 06:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Secret tip: beside delicious grill offer, do not miss fabulous starters

SPINAKER Restaurant & Beach Club Sea food lovers should pay attention at this newly renovated restaurant.

Spinaker – Seafood Grill is one of

A wide range of local and international meals, Dalmatian cuisine sea-food specialties, barbecue and pizza, along with an excellent choice of wines. With a prime position on the hotel terrace overlooking the Adriatic’s Uvala Bay, we invite you to visit us and dine in the romantic setting in Dubrovnik.

Working hours: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Secret tip: open air and entertainment programme every night during summer season - One of the most popular spots in Dubrovnik

HOTEL ODISEJ MLJET VISTA MARE Beach Bar Located right next to the main pier, the seaside bar at the Hotel Odisej on the Island of Mljet offers refreshing beverages, famous cocktails and a rich ice cream selection.

Working hours: 09:00 a.m. – 01:00 a.m.

Secret tip: try some cocktails on the sea front

ODISEJ Grill Experience the exceptional Adriatic Islands sunset from the Tavern`s terrace!

Order fresh seafood, grilled specialties prepared on open fire, food prepared in a very traditional way... – anything you might envision to make your Island of Mljet culinary experience an unforgettable one , our chefs will deliver, and more...

Working hours: 06:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Secret tip: take a lobster freshly caught by local fishermen

HOTEL INFORMATION

Cool Cuisine Excellent food, a glass of wine and poetry make a perfect experience – meet Petar Obad, Chef of Hotel Excelsior and a soulful poet.

A

mong the many hidden delights in the kitchen of Hotel Excelsior, is a true poetic pearl. Our Chef, Petar Obad, delights guests every day with his culinary skills while presenting the hotel’s diverse menu through his unique verses and poems.

Born in Konavle, the southernmost region of Croatia, Petar can compose verses in the blink of an eye. Nobody can resist Petar’s poems, not even the famous hotel guru, Anthony Melchiorri, who stayed at the Excelsior this winter and experienced, probably for the first time, exquisite delicacies served with beautiful lyrics.

Petar Obad's poems are inspired by his birthplace, Konavle. So far he has published three collections of poems and a fourth is currently in progress.

Peter has been learning culinary secrets since he was a child, alongside his mother who was a cook in many Dubrovnik hotels. First he learned to make scrambled eggs, but it was only when he turned fourteen, that he made his first cooked lunch – a traditional Croatian meal of tripe.

Petar was educated at the Dubrovnik school of tourism and hospitality, as well as at the culinary academies Boscolo Etoile and Lenotre. He has worked in many top hotels, but his crowning achievement has been his position at hotel Excelsior, an icon of Croatian hotels. ˝Coming home from high school, I would pass near the Hotel Excelsior, which was always special to me,” he recalled. “I wondered whether I would ever have a chance to work here as the main Chef. And so it was -- two years ago my dream came true. Being a Chef at the Hotel Excelsior is an exceptional honour and a great responsibility. I lead a team of over 30 chefs – without them I would not be able to achieve such excellent results. As I always say – I am just the conductor of a well coordinated orchestra in which everyone knows exactly who is doing what.˝ Many movie stars, celebrities and statesmen such as Morgan Freeman, Francis Ford Coppola, the royal family of Morocco and Bhutan have tasted Petar's specialties. These discerning guests are most amazed by the homemade specialties from this region. “We serve guests who have tasted and seen it all, and who can easily get anything they want.

But again and again, they are most

Petar Obad, Chef of Hotel Excelsior

thrilled with our homemade dishes, local ingredients and traditional recipes. They get enthusiastic about a tomato ripened in the sun, picked yesterday in Konavle or the Neretva valley.˝ To bring home-style cooking even closer to his guests, Petar often brings local fruits and vegetables to the kitchen of Hotel Excelsior, along with herbs and spices from his own garden.

As for Petar himself, his favourite flavours and scents are those that take him back to his childhood. He rarely cooks at home, because from the first day of his marriage, the Chef in his home has been his wife Kristina.

Petar, Kristina and their three children live in Pridvorje, a picturesque village just on the edge of the Konavle valley, under the slopes of Mount Snježnica, where they enjoy the benefits of a small and friendly home town. ˝A Chef who doesn’t like to eat well does not carry in himself a work of art. And if he’s not boyishly playful, he is not likely to be successful in this business. A Chef primarily must be a gourmand, must love to eat and to constantly nibble and think. I live my job 24 hours a day and I'm always thinking about what new dish I could prepare," says Petar. "Sometimes a poem inspires me to create a new dish.˝ If you would like to experience Petar’s culinary and artistic skills – delicious meals presented with original verses - we recommend that you visit our restaurants in Hotel Excelsior, for a unique experience which you will surely remember for a very long time...

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Anthony

Melchiorri

The Hotel Guru of Travel Channel

Anthony Melchiorri has come a long way since working as the director of front office operations for New York's iconic Plaza Hotel. Now, more than 20 years and a fair share of hotel management jobs later, the Brooklyn-born hospitality expert has taken on the role of "hotel fixer" for Travel Channel's Hotel Impossible. In this weekly one-hour program, he helps to turn a struggling hotel into a bustling tourist destination.

The Hotel Guru of Travel Channel Anthony Melchiorri recently stayed in Hotel Excelsior, not as a fixer for his famous Hotel Impossible, but for Travel Channel's very special 'Trip of a Lifetime' show.

This winter, the crew of Travel Channel (headed by its famous host, Anthony Melchiorri) stayed at Hotel Excelsior and Hotel Bellevue to film a one-hour special, “Trip of a Lifetime,” which premiered on 30 January 2013. The special featured some of the most unexpected, exclusive, and outsidethe-guidebook travel experiences imaginable – all in one of the most beautiful and exciting places in the world. This dream trip is based in a region that Travel Channel has deemed the most buzz-worthy, up-and-coming destination in the world today -- the Adriatic Sea and the stunning, historic coasts of Italy and Croatia. Why the Adriatic? As Travel Channel puts it, it's "up and coming." We couldn’t agree more!

Adriatic, on the east. Anthony’s role while filming in Dubrovnik was to reveal to viewers of Travel Channel the best that Dubrovnik has to offer – an over-the-top vacation including the most incredible hotels and villas, undiscovered food and all the fun of discovering a destination.

“This special showcases an extraordinary part of the world. Whether those are the hotels, restaurants or over-thetop adventures, viewers will get a chance to see a unique and unforgettable part of the world. And I am glad to be part of it, as it is so much fun,”

This vacation included a trip to Venice on west side of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik – the pearl of the

Courtesy of Travel Channel

Behind the scene at Hotel Excelsior - Anthony Melchiorri filming "Trip of a Lifetime" show.

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Anthony Melchiorri with Travel Channel filming crew and his hosts

Anthony told us, in the midst of a busy schedule, shooting on Adriatic Luxury Hotels’ premises for Travel Channel’s special.

While in Dubrovnik Anthony Melchiorri showcased Croatia’s best hotel collection – with Adriatic Luxury Hotels as a highlight – Hotel Excelsior, Hotel Bellevue and Villa Sheherezade, which was his personal favourite: ‘For a taste of the good life, I would stay at this luxury villa in Dubrovnik with a cliff-top location overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Marvel at the amazing sea views from the cascading stone terrace or the private beach below.’ (travelchannel.com)

During several days of a busy schedule of filming around Dubrovnik, Anthony and his team managed to relax and chat in Hotel Excelsior over a special dinner which was prepared by their host – Adriatic Luxury Hotels. During this dinner Anthony shared some of his tips in the hospitality business and his impressions of Dubrovnik.

What makes a true 5-star hotel?

“The secret to running a successful 5-star hotel is not only the location, design, and great service; it is also about the attitude of each employee working within the hotel. If you don’t have passionate people working within the hotel, you won’t get exceptional service. But, luckily, you have all these Anthony Melchiorri at Abacus Piano Bar in Hotel Excelsior Anthony Melchiorri Twitter page.

qualities, and believe me, besides hosting Trip of a Lifetime, I will be a good ambassador for promoting Croatian tourism.”

Did Croatia meet your expectations?

‘It actually exceeded them. From the moment I stepped out of the plane, I felt that Croatia was special. It is truly the undiscovered gem of the Mediterranean and I hope you will keep it this way - simple and authentic.

Today’s travellers are in search of genuine experiences, and surely Dubrovnik has it all – an authentic, welcoming approach, people, food,

nature and the beauty of the city.’

What would be your suggestion for Dubrovnik’s first timers?

‘Save time to explore the Old City; it’s amazing what you can find in one of the cobbled alleys. I personally was quite happy to find a small shop with original Croatian ties (cravats) and bought one more to enhance my collection.’

Upon leaving, Anthony left us with a promise:

‘I can’t wait to return to Dubrovnik with my wife and three girls to have my trip of a lifetime!’

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ĐUROVIĆ CAVE UNDERGROUND TREASURY OF WINES Đurović cave is located under the runways of the Dubrovnik Airport, with the entrance to the cave located near the control tower. After receiving all the necessary security and safety approvals, the cave was opened to the public in 2008.

This mid-size cave has a main passage of 199 metres in length, which ends in an underground chamber known as the Hall of Dubrovnik Republic. Đurović Cave is made of deposits of upper Cretaceous limestone and partly of sedimentary rocks such as breccia.

There is an abundance of dripstones of various types: striking stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones. Đurović Cave, located in the eastern part of the village of Močići in the municipality of Konavle, is a part of the Dubrovnik Airport. Its location – right below the runway, or apron – makes it unique in the world. It also it also owes its commercial name, Skycellar, to this particular location.

According to the speleo-morphological classification of the Croatian limestone karst, the Đurović Cave belongs to a class of relatively simple caves. It consists of one downward sloping passage, which is has been reshaped at the bottom by intensive implosion.

There are no larger side channels.

The Hall of the Republic of Dubrovnik is located in the deepest part of the cave, at a widening of the main passage. Here you can find the most interesting natural rock formations, dripstones, narrow and shallow hollows and small pools in the impenetrable sediment. There is no natural entrance to the cave as it was closed during the construction of the airport from 196 to 1963. Today, access to the cave is provided by a 37-metre concrete passage.

The Austrian biospeleologist Viktor Apfelbeck, then curator of the National Museum in Sarajevo, explored the cave at the beginning of the 20th century. However, the first known and documented exploration of Đurović Cave was carried out by the Czech biospeleologist Karel Absolon back in 1913. Many biospeleologists have visited the Đurović Cave since then, including Miho Kusijanović, one of Dubrovnik’s first speleologists; the philologist and historian Don Vice Medini; and the scholar Mirko Malez, who visited the cave in 1958 in the course of paleontological and speleological explorations of the Dubrovnik area. The first visit to and exploration of the cave after its closure by an artificial tunnel, was made in 2001 by the members

of the Speleological Section of the Mountaineering Society “Mosor” from Split. They created an extended report of their findings with a topographic plan for the Dubrovnik Airport.

In addition, they measured microclimatic changes in temperature and air humidity and collected materials for their biospeleological examinations. There is a rich selection of fauna living in the cave: snails, gastropods, crustaceans (Aegonethes cervinus) Budeundielle cataractae, and hygrophilia. From 2003 to 2005, seven ecological studies were undertaken by the Croatian Biospeleological Society (HBSD), during which specimens of the cave fauna were collected. Dinaridi – the Society for Research, Surveying and Filming of Karst Phenomena (DDISFK) -- started research on the cave in July 2005.

Since then, thorough speleological, geomorphological, paleontological, and biological research and surveys have been carried out. Archaeological research of the cave was conducted

by Museums and Galleries of Konavle.

Examination of the surface yielded a number of ceramic fragments and bones in a niche in the northwest part of the cave. Probe sounding has also been carried out in order to analyse the remnants of the remaining cultural layers temporally and culturally.

A preliminary analysis of these fragments gives only the general age of this locality and dates it back to the pre-historic period, the Bronze and Iron Ages (the first millennium BC). Archaeological research in the Đurović Cave has revealed an interesting locality that served as a temporary habitat and shelter for many centuries, and in whose vicinity several pre-historic burial mounds and ruins were found.

SKYCELLAR A MUSEUM OF KONAVLE WINES Skycellar is the commercial name for a unique cave situated below the runway of Dubrovnik Airport -- hence the sky in its name. As for the word "cellar", the name comes from the collection of Konavle’s best wines which can be tasted in this unique cellar, or Skycellar!

Thanks to the optimal conditions for storing wine, with a constant temperature of 16˚C in Đurović cave, a fruitful cooperation with Konavle winemakers was established. As a result, the cellar offers a complete selection of all the recognized and geographically protected wines from Konavle.

Whether you're flying to or from Dubrovnik, or have come to Konavle for some other reason, do not miss the opportunity to visit this unique attraction. Dubrovnik PartneR will happily tailor and organize a program especially for you.

Skycellar is a museum of Konavle wines in a unique natural wine cellar. Đurović cave – Skycellar is a unique location for tasting of authentic wines from Konavle; at the same time it's also a great romantic venue for special dinners or unique weddings.

For any further information or inquiries, please contact: Dubrovnik PartneR Agency at skycellar@dubrovnikpr.com or via tel. +385(0)20.448.180

Skycellar inside

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MLJET

THE ISLAND OF ULYSSES You have surely heard of Ulysses, the great mythical Greek hero and king of Ithaca. According to one of many legends, Ulysses, (known to some as Odysseus) was shipwrecked on the island of Mljet and lured by the nymph Calypso into a cave where he became her hostage.

Today, the island of Mljet is a forested paradise and national park, famous for its salt lakes. Known for its stories and legends, Mljet is the largest island of the Dubrovnik archipelago. It is often called a 'green island' because of its lush vegetation. Its beautiful beaches create an amazing contrast with steep rocks, caves and cliffs. The western part of the island was proclaimed the first national park in the Adriatic in 1960.

Walking across Mljet, you can experience its uniqueness in the cliffs and rocks, the indented shoreline, the scattered little islands and unique geological system of salt lakes. When these were formed, about 10,000 years ago, they were freshwater lakes, and remained so until the beginning of the Christian era.

Today, they have mixed with sea water to become salt water lakes, ideal for swimming and boating, or taking a tour in a gondola. Experiencing the beauty of this island makes you feel like you are walking through heaven on earth.

The natural secrets of both the large and small salt lakes have attracted many scientists over the years, as well as innumerable nature lovers seeking unspoiled beauty. In the middle of the Great Lake, a small isle, called St. Mary, was home to a Benedictine monastery and a small church dating to the 12th century. The small island bestows an exceptional aesthetic image to all of Mljet and is a favourite tourist resort.

Beautiful rich forest surrounds the lakes and fills the park, with small unpaved roads and discrete pathways, ideal for hiking and bicycle rides. The woods gently descend all the way to the surface of the crystal clear lakes, giving hikers, bikers and swimmers refreshing shade,

Ulysses' Cave

and enhancing the tranquil feeling which Mljet radiates.

A GLIMPSE OF HISTORY The pages of the island's history include a story of the great character, Ulysses.

After a shipwreck, Ulysses found shelter in a cave. He swam into the cave that saved his life. He lived on the island for seven years. The cave is called Ulysses' Cave and, if you ask, any resident will show you how to get to the village of Babino Polje where the cave is located.

The remains of Christian history can be seen on the little island Melita in the heart of Mljet where the Benedictine monastery of Saint Mary has stood since the 12th century. There, you can easily imagine how life must have been, hundreds of years ago. This tiny island is accessible by regular boat service.

ULYSSES' CAVE (JAMA) An amazing spot, located a short walk from the village of Babino Polje, is a marine cave named for an ancient legend according to which the adventurous Ulysses spent seven years on Mljet, enchanted by the beautiful nymph Calypso who lived right in this cave. Take a pleasant walk through the fields and try to see if you can resist its charm! It is also a very popular spot for cliff diving from the thanks to the rocky shoreline that surrounds the cave. While swimming, the spectacular colours of the water will surely make this an unforgettable experience.

ANCIENT VILLAGES Most villages on Mljet were founded between the 15th and the 18th centuries. The houses were usually made of stone and contribute to the typical

Dalmatian-Mediterranean atmosphere of ancient times, which still lives through many of the island's old settlements and traditions. Find inspiration in these storytelling walls that will take you back in time. Take a walk through the villages of Prožura, Korita, or Maranovići (with some stunning views) or the ancient part of Babino Polje (ask for Šehovići or Sršenovići).

NP. The second sandy beach is called Saplunara (located quite close to Blaca) and the third one is a pebble beach Uvala Sutmiholjska or Vala (about 4km from Babino Polje).

Tip: Don't miss the Biskup ethnographic museum while strolling through Babino Polje.

CAVES If you like terrestrial or marine caves, Mljet is for you, since there are a variety of both all along the island. Ulysses’ cave is the best known marine cave, but there are many others awaiting exploration by curious divers, including Rikavica, Biskup, Zavrti, Ostaševica and Movrica.

HILLTOPS To find the best views, climb up, of course! Mljet’s breathtaking scenery is best viewed from a height. Although Mljet has a great variety of paths that lead you to as many hilltops as you canW imagine, we recommend you the top three: Veliki Grad, Montokuc and Planjak.

THE LAKES AND THE NATIONAL PARK The Mljet national park is undoubtedly the most famous part of the island. Its pristine, lush forests and the natural phenomenon of the salt lakes have been protected as a national treasure since 1960. Its cultural heritage, although less known, is as important. The Romans have left us a worthy legacy of their ancient Palace in Polače, along with other archaeological sites.

BEACHES Although Mljet offers numerous swimming spots and you can swim anywhere you want, including the Lakes, there are actually only three beaches on the island. And surprisingly, the prettiest and the biggest one doesn’t even get crowded! The name of this sandy beach is Uvala Blaca (or Limuni) and it's located at the far end of the island from the

Tips: If you are going to Blaca or Vala, make sure you bring drinks and snacks with you!

The only beach with a bar and a shop nearby is Saplunara.

GETTING THERE FROM DUBROVNIK Boats to Mljet’s two main ports run regularly from Gruž harbor in Dubrovnik.

The speed catamaran “Nona Ana” takes you comfortably and quickly there in just 45 minutes or so.

For a slower, more scenic ride, or if you would like to bring a car to the island with you, a ferry line from Gruž takes you there via Prapratno. A second ferry line to Mljet departs from the town of Trstenik, located about an hour up the coast from Dubrovnik. Timetables for all boat lines are available at the Guest Relations desk.

However you choose to get to Mljet, you won't regret it, as the Green Island has something for everyone -- beautiful walking and bicycle paths, hundreds of hidden swimming spots and many beaches to spend a relaxed sunny afternoon. And when Mljet overwhelms you, it is impossible to think of anything else...

The lakes in national park

Let the acclaimed local chefs scintillate your taste buds with traditional specialities such as lamb and veal baked over live coals under an iron bell.

The restaurant Konavoski Dvori is situated in the grounds of an ancient mill just by the Ljuta river. Konavoski Dvori offers a unique experience for the senses, with its picturesque setting and cooking in the style of the local grandmothers.

Servers in regional costumes seek to give you the warmest welcome and a most authentic experience.

TERRACE BY THE RUMBLING RIVER Ljuta - Konavle | tel: +385 (0) 20 79 10 39, 44 25 73 Open: 12:00 – 00:00

www.esculap-teo.hr

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CAVTAT THE DARLING OF THE GODS, NATURE AND PEOPLE Cavtat is a charming little town of beautiful beaches and luxury hotels along with a traditional way of life and welcoming customs. Step into a jewel encased by city walls and the unbroken blue of the sea...

Most people have heard of Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic, but the beautiful harbour town of Cavtat, only 18km down the coast, has managed to remain relatively unknown compared to its cosmopolitan neighbour. Cavtat is like a precious secret. It is hard to say what delights the visitor most: the luxuriant Mediterranean vegetation that envelops the peninsula like a thick, green blanket; its picturesque bays, still and clear, deep and blue; or the colourful old town, with its cobbled streets and traditional redroofed houses, where life goes on in much the same way it always has.

Cavtat offers the best of both worlds. Enjoy a relaxed pace of life in a colourful waterfront community, knowing that you are just a few minutes away from the attractions of Dubrovnik.

THE LEGEND OF CAVTATS' NAME In addition to a possible derivation from the Latin words civitus vetus (old city), the name of Cavtat is also associated with the legend of the beautiful Cavtislava, the daughter of the Epidaurian king Kordun and Queen Amrusa. As Cavtislava was courted by many men, the king decided to give her hand to the suitor who was fastest in completing some great task -- constructing a fortification around the town, building a great temple in the town, constructing an aqueduct, or bringing in a ship loaded with silk.

The fastest was a rich local nobleman by the name of Vrsanin, who managed to be the first to bring a water system into the town.

According to legend, a festival was held on the day of the opening of the Epidaurian aqueduct. Cavtislava was to have the first taste of the water from a golden jar. Yet, before the first drops of water poured out, a big lizard leaped out of the jar and fell right into her lap. Princess Cavtislava’s heart broke from shock and she died instantly of fright. Legend claims that the lizard had been secretly placed into the jar by a jealous suitor who could not fulfil the task that Cavtislava's father had set. In memory of Cavtislava, the town of Cavtat arose following an earthquake which destroyed the original town.

A GLIMPSE OF HISTORY The ancient Greek settlement of Epidaurus was conquered by the Romans in 229 BC. In 1426, it became the second center of Dubrovnik republic and played an important role in the social life of the republic. As the centuries passed, the town was devoted to culture. One of Croatia’s most famous modern painters, Vlaho Bukovac, was born here.

With its natural beauty and attractive location, Cavtat is a natural centre for tourism. Today, chic shops, restaurants and cafes line the harbour front, beyond which is a delightful walking promenade, curving all the way around the bay. In more recent times, Cavtat has become a thriving hub for artists and an exclusive retreat for wealthy Croatians, many of whom have second homes here.

THE OLD TOWN Behind the harbour front and promenade is a collection of creamcoloured Greco-Venentian houses dating back to the 15th century.

These gracious homes curve around a scenic harbour promenade lined with palm trees and pebble beaches.

It's an incredible change of pace. One minute you are on the busy, noisy promenade and two steps later you are lost in the narrow back streets of a Mediterranean fishing town.

THE BIRTHPLACE OF GREAT ARTISTS AND SCHOLARS Cavtat's most famous son was Vlaho Bukovac (1855-1922), Croatia’s most prominent artist and the forefather of modern Croatian painting. His family home and his atelier have been painstakingly restored and converted into an exhibition space and museum, now known as the Vlaho Bukovac House. Many of his works are displayed in Cavtat, at St. Nicholas' church, in the Painting Gallery, in the church of the Franciscan monastery and in private collections.

Cavtat is also the home town of Baltazar Bogišić, a 19th and 20th century scientist of world-wide fame, a member of many European academies, doctor of law, a passionate collector and guardian of national folklore. Bogisic's rich cultural collection is stored in the Rector's Palace in Cavtat. It includes a library with more than 22,000 rare old books, about 70 historic pamphlets, a rich archive of enormous value, a collection of drawings of more than 10,000 items, a collection of some 1,500 antique coins and coins of the Dubrovnik Republic, a collection of historic armaments, an ethnographic collection, and much more.

Cavtat is also the home town of the great Croatian politician and statesman Frano Supilo (19th and 20th centuries).

THE RAČIĆ FAMILY MAUSOLEUM No visit to Cavtat is complete without a trip to the famous mausoleum of the Račić family, a well-known ship owning family. It was built on the site of the church and cemetery of St. Rocco by the famous Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović in 1921. His architecture bears witness to the symbolism of the human life cycle: birth, life and death. This Račić family monument was built as an octagonal white dome using prized white stone from the island of Brač, while the door and bell were cast in bronze. The bell, designed by Meštrović, is inscribed with his beautiful words, "Learn the mystery of love, and you will resolve the mystery of death and believe that life is eternal."

THE CHURCH OF ST. NICHOLAS The 15th century Cavtat parish church has a charming Baroque interior and is home to a valuable collection of paintings, sculptures and liturgical vessels. The parish church is also proud of its painting vault, founded in 1952, thanks to Academic Cvita Fisković and many others. Among the numerous valuable works of art are icons bearing images of St. Nicholas from the 15th century, an alabaster relief from the 15th century, a painting of St. Sebastian by the Baroque master of the Bologna school Benedetto Genarri, works by Sicilian painter Carmelo Reggi, and works by the great Croatian painter Vlaho Bukovac.

The Church of Our Lady of Snow A valuable painting, titled Carmela Reggia Palermitana, the work of an artist from Dubrovnik, is displayed at St. Nicholas' church. The Franciscan monastery includes the well-known polyptych of St. Michael by Vicko Dobričević from Dubrovnik (16th c.).

The cloister of the monastery is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The Painting Gallery houses a large collection of valuable works of art, from ancient to contemporary times.

This single nave church dates from the 15th century. The name of the church was given according to the legend when the Virgin Mary has appeared in a Roman merchant’s dream and told him to build a temple on the place where snow will lie the following morning. The Franciscan monastery, with its late Gothic cloisters, was added later. The church houses valuable paintings by the Pelješac painter and Franciscan monk Celestin Medović, while Bukovac's painting Our Lady of Cavtat, 10m long and 3m high, depicting Cavtat harbour, dominates the church.

DUBROVNIK - UNWIND

CAVTAT EVENTS

GASTRONOMY

Your stay in Cavtat includes a rich programme of events to choose from.

One of the biggest events is The Cavtat Summer, an annual series of cultural and entertainment events around town, from the end of June until early September.

Enjoying delicious local delicacies in Cavtat is guaranteed, thanks to the abundance of fine, fresh fish and seafood specialties combined with fresh vegetables. If you are looking for something simpler, sit down at any one of the seaside cafes and bars along the bay while soaking up the beautiful sunset scenery.

We recommend the Spinaker beach restaurant and lounge bar – a chic place and a delight for seafood lovers. Enjoy a peaceful evening dinner by the sea, then continue your night out with a glass or two of chilled wine in comfortable lounge chairs at Spinaker Lounge.

A Capella Festival: "Cast Your Eyes Upon Me" This annual gathering of Dalmatian vocal groups has been held in Cavtat since 2000. It was established by the Cavtat vocal group “Ragusa vecchia” and in a relatively short time has become one of the leading events of this kind in Croatia. The festival is held on the first weekend of September on the terrace of the Banac villa, and features 12 of the area’s best male and female vocal groups, mostly from the area of Dubrovnik.

Carnival The carnival tradition in Cavtat is over 100 years old. It was the famous Croatian painter Vlaho Bukovac who immortalized this tradition in his painting, “The Cavtat Carnival” (which is part of the Baltazar Bogišić Collection in Cavtat) at the turn of the 20th century. Easy-going fun is the spirit of this Summer Carnival, with performances by bands, street entertainers, jugglers and actors turning the whole town quay into a giant stage with a bit of fun for everyone. Cavtat Summer Carnival is held on the last weekend of July.

ACTIVE HOLIDAYS Cavtat offers a wide selection of activities for active visitors, nature lovers, and sports enthusiasts. Water sports and other activities available at beaches or diving centres, for underwater visits to sunken ships or mysterious caves. The aqua park provides lots of fun for children and anyone who loves a good splash. Rent a yacht or sailing boat and sail away to nearby islands.

GETTING THERE Cavtat is just 10 minutes by bus or taxi from Dubrovnik airport.

Buses and boats run regularly from Dubrovnik to Cavtat.

Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town, which glitters in the distance, is just a short journey away.

Cavtat offers best of both worlds.

Relax with a cool drink, watching the sun set over the bay, and it’s easy to see why. As evening falls over Cavtat, the lights go out on the peninsula. Seemingly the whole town heads down to the harbour to enjoy this idyllic haven and once more take a stroll along the promenade dotted with sunbathing terraces and hidden coves. It's no wonder that this place is known as the darling of the gods, nature and people.

34 ALH TIMES

HOTEL INFORMATION www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

A D R I AT I C L U X U R Y H O T E L S DREAM COLLECTION HOTEL EXCELSIOR DUBROVNIK Dubrovnik’s iconic Hotel Excelsior is one of the finest luxury five-star hotels in the Mediterranean. Overlooking the island of Lokrum and the Old Town, guests will admire its breathtaking location, understated elegance, and unbridled charm. Enjoying a rich 98-year history, the Hotel Excelsior has a longstanding reputation and loyal client base, having played host to some of the world’s greatest performers and royalty.

Accommodation: 141 rooms and 17 suites Restaurant & Bars: 4 restaurants & 2 bars Conference: 6 multifunctional rooms for up to 650 people Wellness & Recreation: Comfort Zone Spa and beauty centre; outdoor swimming pool

HOTEL BELLEVUE DUBROVNIK Hotel Bellevue is a boutique luxury hotel which prides itself on its chic boutique feel, attracting a younger, funkier, and more design-savvy clientele to the city of Dubrovnik. Perched 30 metres above the picturesque Miramare Bay, nestled in a breathtaking sandy cove overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the Hotel Bellevue sets a new benchmark for Croatian properties, attracting the most discerning and affluent visitors.

Accommodation: 78 rooms & 13 suites Restaurant & Bars: 2 restaurants & 2 bars Conference: 3 meeting rooms for up to 250 people Wellness & Recreation: Comfort Zone Spa and beauty centre; pebble beach

VILLA ORSULA This new boutique hotel is just a 5 minute stroll from the unforgettable landscape of the sun-drenched, UNESCO protected, white-stoned city of Dubrovnik Old Town. Its prestigious seafront location offers spectacular sea views, while the surrounding gardens enable its guests to have exclusive privacy in order to enjoy their summer vacation in this secluded corner of Dubrovnik. Built in 1930s, Villa Orsula's gracious architecture is influenced by the Orient and creates a stylish atmosphere of luxury.

Accommodation: 11 rooms & 2 suites Restaurant & Bars: Fine Dining Victoria Restaurant & Lounge Bar

VILLA AGAVE Recognised as the best way to experience the ancient and luxurious city of Dubrovnik and nurturing an atmosphere of relaxation, comfort, and informality Villa Agave is one of the most exclusive villas on the Mediterranean.

Villa Agave is a three-bedroom, 270 sq. metres summer house, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Surrounded by five terraces, Villa Agave offers exceptional privacy and a choice of breathtaking views across the bay to the Old Town of Dubrovnik and the Island of Lokrum.

VILLA SHEHEREZADE Vila Sheherezade was built in early 1920s. Its outstanding white stone architecture stands as one of Dubrovnik’s protected monuments.

The legend behind this marvelous villa, about a great love that needed to be materialized in a form of a monument, resebmles that one of Taj Mahal. This architectural masterpiece, surrounded by colorful gardens, palm and cypress trees extends over 4200 sq. meters of exuberant greenery, creating charming, welcoming and unique atmosphere.

ESCAPE COLLECTION GRAND VILLA ARGENTINA The Villa Argentina was built as a gilded private residence at the beginning of the 20th ct. and, along with private villas, converted into a five-star hotel complex in the 1950s, just minutes from the gates of Dubrovnik’s old town.

While overlooking the blue Adriatic Sea and nearby island of Lokrum, guests are just a short walk from the Old Town of Dubrovnik, providing the ideal starting point for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Accommodation: 127 rooms & 4 suites Restaurant & Bars: 2 restaurants & 3 bars Conference: 3 meeting rooms for up to 200 people Wellness & Recreation: Outdoor swimming pool; platform beach

HOTEL DUBROVNIK PALACE Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, a luxury five-star resort, opened in May 2004.

Revered for its multi-faceted approach to lavish holiday escapes, Dubrovnik Palace prides itself on a full range of activities and facilities for couples and business travellers. Celebrated as Europe’s finest five-star resort for 2011, conference centre and spa, the Hotel Dubrovnik Palace was also the proud holder for two consecutive years of two World Travel Awards – Croatia’s Leading Hotel and Croatia’s Leading Spa Resort.

Its wellness and spa centre, conference rooms, superb gastronomy, and spectacular terraces with breathtaking sea views make it the first choice for a memorable, luxurious stay.

Accommodation: 271 rooms & 37 suites Restaurant & Bars: 4 restaurants & 3 bars Conference: 8 conference & meeting rooms for up to 750 people Wellness & Recreation: Comfort Zone Spa and beauty centre; 3 outdoor swimming pools, PADI diving centre, tennis court, private beach, jogging paths & walking routes

HOTEL CROATIA CAVTAT Situated across the bay from the historic walls of Dubrovnik, Hotel Croatia Cavtat is the leading 5-star resort and conference hotel on the South Adriatic. Built to demanding specifications allowing Hotel Croatia

to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, it is the ideal destination for relaxation, business and to serve as a base for exploring Dubrovnik, the crown jewel of the Adriatic.

Accommodation: 480 rooms & 7 suites Restaurant & Bars: 4 restaurants, 3 bars & a night club Conference: 8 conference & meeting rooms for up to 750 people Wellness & Recreation: Wellness & Spa centre, private beach, outdoor swimming pool

VILA GLAVIC Villa Glavic is a three floor historical building, with 27 rooms altogether, offering complete privacy and beautiful sea views. The location of the hotel offers guests the opportunity for quick trips into Dubrovnik, to learn of its colored history, to dine in its many restaurants or for shopping in the boutiques of the walled city.

UNWIND COLLECTION HOTEL KOMPAS A stylish three-star hotel Kompas in Dubrovnik is a charming hotel is located in the most peaceful and calm part of Dubrovnik, the beautiful Lapad Bay. Owing to its proximity to the sea and the beach, an ideal position in the quiet Dubrovnik area and many events organized on its open air terrace, hotel Kompas has become one of the most popular places to spend summer holidays in Dubrovnik.

Accommodation: 115 rooms Restaurant & Bars: 2 restaurants & 3 bars Wellness & Recreation: Outdoor swimming pool

HOTEL ODISEJ Hotel Odisej is a three-star hotel and has a perfect location, in the heart of the Mljet National Park, on the Island of Mljet. It is a perfect place for nature and history enthusiasts, explorers of ancient times and related mystical stories or scuba diving fans. If you desire to enjoy a perfect island retreat, where time has no relevance, the island of Mljet makes a perfect choice.

Accommodation: 153 rooms & 2 suites Restaurant & Bars: 3 restaurants & 3 bars Wellness & Recreation: Children's swimming pool; fitness club; hiking & biking trails; diving centre

HOTEL SUPETAR Hotel Supetar is a comfortable 3-star hotel ideally situated for a charming family holiday directly across the bay from Dubrovnik, in a centre of the beautiful old town of Cavtat, a typical Dalmatian small town with harmonious architecture. The hotel is just steps away from the beach and offers guests a more intimate setting to enjoy their Adriatic vacation.

Accommodation: 28 rooms Restaurant & Bars: 1 restaurant &1 bar

VALENTINO, TOM FORD, PROENZA SCHOULER, LANVIN, BALENCIAGA, AZZEDINE ALAÏA, MARY KATRANTZOU, SAINT LAURENT PARIS, GIVENCHY, BALMAIN, MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA, RICK OWENS, C�LINE, STELLA MCCARTNEY, BURBERRY PRORSUM, NATALIA BRILLI, MARNI, ALEXANDER WANG, OLYMPIA LE TAN, FALIERO SARTI, ACNE, VIONNET, MAISON MICHEL, TOM BINNS, ERICKSON BEAMON, CARMINA CAMPUS, NOIS, NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD, GIANVITO ROSSI, BURAK UYAN POUR MARIA, LINDA FARROW LUXE, HAGA PARIS Maria Zagreb, Masarykova 8, 01-4811011 Maria Dubrovnik, Sv. Dominika bb, 020-321330 Outlet Dubrovnik, Cvijete Zuzorić 3, 020-323495 Outlet Zagreb, Centar Kaptol, Nova Ves 17 01-4860843 www.mariastore.hr info@mariastore.hr facebook.com/mariastore.hr

Photograph taken on Stradun - Dubrovnik’s main promenade at 04:00