We arrive this morning in our second Croatian Destination of Dubrovnik. Today we breakfasted at the Lido Buffet or some enjoyed in room dining. We gathered at 8:45 to disembark from the ship and meet our guide for the day, Magda at dock and onward to the City of Dubrovnik.
Our coach first deposited us at Dubrovnick’s ancient walled city entrance and began our tour. Parts of the area stretched back to the 6th century AD. There was a steep staircase leading up to the perimeter castle walls, and with the exception of one member, we all began the ascent. Comments as we climbed were varied, but generally, cleaned up to mean that we were in worse shape than imagined. Once reaching the “summit” we walked Castle walls enjoying wonderful views of the surrounding port and looking down at all contained within the city walls. There were two additional points at which members of the group could opt to descend or continue. In the end, 5 of the group made the entire circuit. After final descent, we had free time to rest and refresh with a glass of wine, beer, or iced tea, accompanied by the usual French fries or ever popular gelato.
We hopped back on the bus for the 35 minute ride to the countryside surrounding Dubrovnick for a visit to a Miln (Mill) where we learn how grain was milled and wool was felted into waterproof cloth using water power, as practised for centuries before advent of electricity and the industrial revolution. We were also treated to some candied lemon and orange peel slices, some apple cider or heady grappa (wine brandy that is very potent and delicious.)
Again a strenuous day, loggng over 6 miles on foot for most of the crew. We returned to the good ship Oosterdam around 4:30. Following group cocktails either in our rooms or one of the bars, we moved on to dinner, two groups opt for Italian dinner at Canaletto dinning room. Following the meal we then explore and into bed by 12:00.
