Omis people apologize for trafficjam

Of course Omis loves every visiting tourist,
and of course the people of Omis like them to stay as long as possible
in this marvellous place between Adriatic Sea and Cetina River.
And tourists from many countries come and stay for a great holiday.

However, many people will remember Omis as the wórst trafficjam in Croatia.
As already for many years now, the centre of Omis is ONE BIG TRAFFICJAM.
And all of that because the responsible politicians seem to be born without ears, eyes (and brains ?).

Promises, promises, promises, a typical disease politicians seem to be suffering from.
With half a tunnel ready, as you can see when you look up, the next part is promised (again) to be ready somewhere in 2020.
(Or will it be another apartment with stunning view, overlooking the Cetina from above).

Anyway, yesterday the people of Omis went to the Magistrale (that coastal road from Split to Dubrovnik),
to apologise to all passing tourists waiting in the longest trafficjam in Dalmatia.

As Omis is a fantastic place to spend holidays, with a large Adriatic beach, the Cetina Canyon, impressive mountains,all of it blessed with a lot of sunshine (unless it's raining sometimes).

But sorry to say, the responsible people in Croatia, put a lót of money in promotion, folders, flyers, worldwide reclame and loads of attention, but................
they seem to forget all those visiting tourists get stuck in the worst ever yearly trafficjam.

For that reason the people of Omis went to the road, to apologise for the "inconvenience".
As people of Omis love to see you come and stay, but not in a trafficjam.

Let's hope the voters (yes dear politicians, they vote for responsible politicians),
finally get what they have been begging for, for so many years.
And keep in mind, between now and the promises for 2020, there are elections again.

So better beware of those Omis Pirates !

do like us, see those guys !!!!

It took us twó years to leave our hidden paradise for a visit to Split.

To be totally honest, I sometimes go, but only if I must buy something we don't have in Svinisce.

And as quick as possible I race back, neglecting all speed limits.

Yesterday however, the two of us left our hidden valley,
and boy did we enjoy it !

We check Total Split's information regularly,
but not being tourists nor city dwellers,

we only say "ah, look how much Split has to offer to visitors".

But we're no tourists, we live here, well hidden from the crowds,
the heat, noise and stress.

So why leave Svinisce, where life is simple and great.

Well, we were and are WRONG !

As yesterday evening we went to see, listen and enjoy
a unique group of musicians on a stunning location.

As in the garden of the Mestrovic Museum,
overlooking the Adriatic by night, there was a show/concert by the Sudar Percussion ensemble with Matej Mestrovic.

And to say it simple: it was a f#cking fantastic evening.

Started with a introducing documentary on wide screen
about the process of creation and recording,

the group entered the stage, grabbing us by the balls and not letting go till three extra's had been given.

And the music never stops, as we bought their CD,
originally packed in a tin can :-)

Will we go back to Split to get some more,
even if sweat is dripping down our back and lower,

héll we will !!

Not only next year, to see if Sudar is performing again, 

but more often, as in the museum garden all summer long
there is life music (twice a week).

If interested (and you should be !!).

have a look on the group's website or Youtube,
and see/listen/download/buy their music.

www.sudarpercussion.com

(Click here for all details.)

Artists:
Goran Gorse - vibraphone
Filp Mercep - marimba
Nicolas Sinkovic - xylophone, glockenspiel
Josip Blaskovic - bass
Luka Pesutic - drums
Matej Mestrovic - piano

PS.

Returning to our hidden valley, again we felt blessed, 

especially because our evening temperature is five degrees C. lower 

than the temperature at the coast.

(25 or 20 degrees Celsius does make a BIG difference).

And a cold beer tastes even better than, under a star sprinkled sky.

Zivali Sudar, zivali !

STOP NÓW

Our Adriatic Sea is thé reason why you and so many others 
choose to come to Dalmatia, every year again.

It's clear blue water, clean as clean can be, 
attracts people from all over the globe, year after year, 
and with hundreds of thousands, ever increasing.

To say it in other words, this is the véry best Croatia has to offer.

All you visitors fall in love with it, 
and each of you brings in money, loáds of money.

You and I are so to say: 
the chickens with the golden eggs.

And however I don't want to interfere with Croatian politics at áll,

this time I must speak out loud.

National politicians have the disastrous idea there is more money in drilling for oil; not somewhere far away, but between our Dalmatian islands.
More money, móre money..... how about all the money from tourism ?

The idea of drilling for mineral oil in this pristine sea environment is a bloody shame.

Daring to risk our sea is the biggest mistake éver.

As once the shit hits the fan, there is nó return.

So do please join the Clean Adriatic Sea Alliance, 
and STOP THIS DISASTER before it's to late.

Because you and I love Dalmatia for it's clean sea, 
nót for cheap fuel at the petrol station.

Our oil comes from trees, nót from the Adriatic.

There are other ways to keep our economy growing, 
there are other ways to harvest energy (lot's of sunshine), 
and there are other ways to fill the gap in the states' budget. 

Join the www.clean-adriatic.org 
before there is no turning back.

Enjoy your holidays at the most beautiful coast of Europe.
This year, next year, or any year in the future.

As an unspoiled Adriatic Sea is the véry bést gift, 
to ourselves ánd to the future !

Split without Salona: IMPOSSIBLE !

I like to be clear, sometimes even blunt :-).

However, if not being clear, you would miss this tip:

visiting Split without visiting Salona (today's Solin)
would be a terrible mistake.

As without Salona there wouldn't have been Split.

The old Romans knew how to pick their locations, 

and Salona is one of those unique spots.

Sun, soil, water, a perfect place to live near the Adriatic, 

well protected from invasive tribes, however that changed later on when the Slavs moved in.

For centuries however, the location was perfect,
a firm stronghold and a great place to relax from all the expeditions the Roman empire organised.
And relax they did, all those 50.000 ancient inhabitants.

Recently I received a newsletter from go Hvar at wordpress, 

with highly interesting information and a load of great pictures.

So once again, why bother if someone else does a better job,
I continue to pamper my crops, while you read the entire story at:

http://gohvar.wordpress.com/2014/07/20/salona-the-ancient-capital-of-dalmatia

And I do hope you will visit Salona, as to understand why Split is Split,

you múst experience Salona.
The above mentioned link gives you a perfect idea.
And after reading it, you better see for yourself.

Promise ?

Great !

chase the donkey, thát's what you need to do !

Why bother writing my "no good for nothing" pages,
when there is a fár better option ?

Well, to be honest, I like to keep my English in shape, not easy for a Dutchman living in Dalmatia.

With a couple of languages in my head
(Dutch, English, German and a tiny bit of French),
and trying to increase my knowledge of Croatian
(svaki dan malo vise),
sometimes I get a headache flipping from one to another.

Than why not choose for Dutch or Croatian, you might ask,
the answer is plain simple,
my Croatian is very limited, and with only a few Dutch on the globe,
it makes sense to use English in stead.

That's why I use English, and with still a lot to share,
I'll continue to (try to) do so.

However, it's a painstaking process,
partially digging for what's still in my head,
sometimes with a bit of help from Google Translate.

However, if you prefer to read proper English,
and need detailed information about Dalmatia,

dó have look at: www.chasingthedonkey.com

It's written by a nice lady called Sarah Jane, originally from Australia,
but chasing her donkey, she settled in Dalmatia.

Again today I received her so called Weekly Update,
which made me think "why bother, she's better".

Will this mean the end of my blogging, héll nó,
but I want !! you !! to get the most out of your search for splendid information about Dalmatia,
and how to discover and enjoy it in the véry best way.

So go to www.chasingthedonkey.com as those pages are great,
but do come back here once in a while, 

as however not a frequent blogger,
I will continue to add stuff whenever I feel like it.

And as you may know, I never write about the regular touristic offer, 

and certainly not about fish-pick-nicks and such.

As when I feel like writing,
it's because I think something is worth sharing with you.
And as a result, you get to know Dalmacija better.
As thát's what drives me and my internet fellows.

Great job Sarah Jane, I envy you !

dive, dive, dive !

(Picture "stolen" from the internet).

Many if not most people visit Dalmatia because a swim in the Adriatic is great, after a bit of sun tanning.

And many if not all of them do not know what's below the surface.

Well than, let me share a recent story in the Dalmatian newspaper called Slobodna Dalmacija.

As this newspaper published about some stunning results from underwater archaeology, done in the neighbourhood of Zadar.

Here a team of professional archaeologists did an underwater survey, which evidence based showed the remains of ancient people,
dating back 3000 years, if not more.

And the results are breathtaking 
(which might be a problem for scuba divers :-).

  Not being an archaeologist myself, nor a diver, I truly was thrilled, also because an internet friend of me, called Alan Mandic, offered private funding and whatever extra help was needed.

Bravo Alan, you're the best !!!

Why am I so exited about it all, my answer is pretty simple:

ja volim Dalmacija (I love Dalmatia), with all it already has to offer, and all that is still unknown to so many visitors.

Much of it still hidden under soil or water, much however clearly visible, touchable to those who go a bit further than an obligate
fish pick nick or a (pleasant) boat trip up and down the Cetina river.

Oh boy, there is só much more to experience trúe Dalmatia. 

I (retired Dutchman living here now) simply need two lives (if not more) to get a proper view of all those amazing things around us.

As through history each and every occupant (or long stay visitor) left less or more traces, as this territory always was highly attractive, because of its climate, soil, and all it still offers today.

Fish, meat, vegetables, fruits, olives and grapes, a most attractive coastline, and áll that lies behind it.

Already wrote many little stories on my blog (check those pages), trying to convince you why I call this a God given paradise.

Anyway, if interested in all Dalmatia has to offer, beyónd the average offer, contact Alan Mandic and his team at Secret Dalmatia.com ,
as it's his pride and joy to reveal our secrets.
(No, don't ask me, I am retired, with zéro obligations).

And bare in mind, part of the money he charges you, he voluntarily donates to reveal some of all our hidden treasures.
As that's a job for other professionals, with or without compressed air.

If interested in underwater archaeology, check: http://icua.hr/en to dive into the Adriatic a bit deeper.

And if a landlubber like me, contact people like Alan, as he can guide you to many hidden secrets, in or out of the water.

Read the complete fantastic story Alan wrote at: secretdalmatia.wordpress .
It's worth leaving this page :-)

being dutch in dalmatia

Perhaps you haven´t noticed yet, but in Brasil there is a world championship going on.

So whát you may say.

!! Football !!

And however the Dalmatian people are known for being absolute Hajduk Split fans, specially in this region,

there is a category of fans that goes totally nuts these days.

The Dutch !

Maybe you still think ``shall I visit Holland or Dalmatia this year``, well, than better follow my advise !

Dón´t go to Holland, unless you love orange streets.

As where the Brazilians are yellow/green,  the Belgians like cooked lobsters, and the Argentinians white/blue,

it´s all nothing compared to entire Holland.

As Holland these days is suffering from an Orange Disease.

So if you want to see Holland in it´s normal colour (greyish pale blue with plenty of rain), better wait till our team either wins the world championship or gets kicked out.

Until than it´s better to decide for Dalmatia.

Green, blue and sunny as usual.

!! GO HOLLAND, GO GO GO !!

ps.
Thank heaven, Holland lost in a terrible match against the Argentinians.
And without being an expert on football items, I think Germany will be world champion.
May the best team win, as that's what they are !!!

central dalmatia, a love story

Being a very enthusiastic reader of Total Split 's pages,

today I was pleasantly surprised with a very charming video

about Central Dalmatia .

The video won a price on a festival in Azerbaijan, and however the music under it is a bit to sweet for me,

I couldn't agree more with it's contents, including all the denials.

As yes, once you've tasted Central Dalmatia, you fall in love with it.

No escape possible, it grabs you by the b*lls and doesn't let go.

How do I know this, the answer is simple:

it happened to us, reason why we now live here, till Kingdom come !

And for those who sometimes stumble over my minimalistic English,

we are Dutch as Dutch can be, 

but following our hearts we left Holland.

Some, if not many people think or say Holland is beautiful, 

including Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Amsterdam's red lights,

the Keukenhof and a couple more highlights.

Well folks, it may be, but nothing beats

Central Dalmatia .

So, with or without it's music, check this truly fine video, 

and plan your first visit.

(Which will be the first of a never ending love story.)

PS.
Couple of days ago, some Dutch people visited us.
They travel all over Croatia and various other countries professionally, and what they said to us is as true as true can be:
"This beats all". 
We know, we know, and now you know it too.

Cetina footpath

(click to enlarge)

How about:

a walk from Omis to let's say Restoran Kastil Slanica.

(About 30/45 minutes for lazy walkers like me).

A most impressive walk it is, following the Cetina into the Canyon.

Frogs shouting "kiss me, I am a prince",
ducks hiding in the marsh, boats passing.

And, fantastic panoramas, worth a thousand pictures.

This last section of the Cetina, before it enters the Adriatic Sea, 

is very relaxing and so does the river.

No more rapids, no more waterfalls, no rafts, slowly, slowly now.

Only óne thing is missing !

There ain't such a footpath at all.

Living nearby, every time I drive down from our hidden valley,

I see many visitors who risk their pants, taking a walk until they think enough is enough !

And they are right, as a walk along the Cetina's borders is tricky.

With hardly any space to walk or to do some physical exercise, 

and cars and buses passing all the time, 

it is almost surprising no serious accidents happened yet.

And thát while a pleasant footpath wouldn't cost a bloody fortune, 

with still plenty of rough material from drilling the new tunnel.

Rocks and gravel, that's all it takes to create this perfect addition to Omis's attractions.

Well, ok, with a couple of places to sit down, have a pick-nick or take some photos.

No doubt there a zillion laws and regulations, as this is Croatia, 

but give me óne good reason why such a footpath would damage the pristine nature of the Canyon of the Cetina River.

The river and it's canyon deserve to be seen, and you, my dear reader, visiting beautiful Omis, 

deserve a proper footpath, safely divided from passing traffic.

Until than, this walk still is most beautiful, but be careful please.

As medical care in Croatia is perfect, but better not need it :-).

Enjoy your holidays in Omis, worth a stay.

camping in dalmatia

Bad luck....

.... if you don't want to spend all your quality time at the Adriatic, 

on small or huge camp sites,

as camping in the Total of Inland Dalmatia is a mission impossible.

Still the officials, locally ánd nationwide don't understand "some" people like to put their shelter, camper or caravan at a small natural site where the crowds don't go.

Freedom seekers, nature lovers, all those people who like to scroll the beautiful inland, may still be a bit surprised, if not disappointed to discover it's impossible to find such camping locations.

Sad, bad, ignorant and I might even add stupid,
as the inland of Dalmatia has loads of opportunities
to create a small, green possibility.

To begin with, the entire length of the Cetina river is pure delight, where each and every farm, village or small town should be happy
to embrace the possibility.

Vrlika, Cetina, Sinj, Trilj, Grab, Blato na Cetina, Podgrade, Zadvardje, even Kucice, to mention a few, are perfectly fitting into the idea of promoting the Dalmatinska Zagora.

These are only some of the many charming places along all of the Cetina's 105 beautiful kilometers.

And there are mány more places, like Vrgorac, Imotski, Ricice and more, that would benefit from people finding their peace in this most quiet, natural Dalmatian region, just behínd the coast.

The name: Dalmatinska Zagora, or to say it in English:
Total Inland Dalmatia.

(click on this line to find out more).

Who would nót want to spend one or more nights (ánd days) in pristine nature, enjoying local products from local producers, butchers, bakeries, fishermen or farmers.

Let's hope, the decision makers finally understand that all those ridiculous laws and regulations may be sensible at the coast, but contra productive for the inland.

As in most modern European countries there are basic initiatives, offering a stay in nature or near a charming spot or village.

Not the complete package with swimming pool, restaurant, entertainment, bar and beach club, where you see and hear more of your neighbours than what's ten meters away, but basic, natural, simple spots.

With of course a minimal offer of fresh water, a basic toilet/washing place, and a véry basic offer of electricity.

Not less, but ábsolutely not more (as less still is more :-).

If you only see where we live, in our well hidden valley with friendly people and a stunningly beautiful panorama,
you get the picture behind this plea.

As here we live in a totally peaceful environment, silent, pristine, natural and peaceful paradise.

And before you run to our village, better choose for one of the possibilities that already exist within one hour's reach in entire Total Inland Dalmatia.
"Unfortunately" you'll have to camp at the coast (still fantastic).
And also from there, each and every trip into the inland is like discovering paradise.

But let's hope it will soon be:
 "DOBRO DOSLI u DALMATINSKA ZAGORA",

as it's truly worth a visit, for a day, but better for some more.

As thán you'll discover yourself ánd Dalmatia's hidden secrets.

omis, brzet, zvizdan, a fine place to: eat/drink/swim/relax/enjoy !

Want to know where we (as locals) go for a swim
and some friendly priced food ?

Ok, here's the tip:

Drive out of Omis, direction Makarska, and in a few of minutes (!), turn right at the sign Brzet.

Driving to this location is always a pain in the *ss, but accepting this minor problem brings you in a couple of minutes (!) to a most enjoyable secluded beach, terrace and restaurant.

The name of the place: Zvizdan (meaning star).

Not to crowded, which is a blessing in crowded Omis, the place is véry pleasant and easy going,
with a delicious terrace under pine trees and a móst fantastic panorama.

The sea there, as everywhere, is very clean,
and the bonus is in the fact that it takes ten (!) steps from the terrace into the waiting water.

It's our favorite spot, especially in the later afternoon, when the sun slowly sets behind Omis.

As than we like to refresh ourselves at Zvizdan with a cool drink (beer Paul B., béér), followed by a freshly prepared dinner, many times followed by another swim, this time under the stars.

Do not be surprised to see a couple of dolphins passing,
looking for some fresh fish too :-)

And you don't have to be a dolphin to have some fresh fish, as all dishes are super fresh, well prepared and very decently priced.

When returning, please be carefull when entering the coastal road towards Omis again.

The road you're leaving is in a slightly difficult angle, 

and not all drivers on the Magistrale are on holidays. 

(Especially some racing motor bikers with a clear death wish). 

PS.

If you don't have a car, ask at the tourist agency malimlin 

(opposite the big Studenac shopping centre, near camp Galeb), 

as they might just have a nice alternative available.

sunny dalmatia (also knows rain)

Dalmatia is known for it's perfect sunny weather.

Warm, in mid summer even hot, but hardly ever to hot.

Most of spring, summer and even autumn are blessed with sunny weather, but to keep nature green :-) we know rainy days as well, even in summer.

And for those "less sunny" moments I want to warn you, especially when driving your car or motor.

As during the dry days, the asphalt absorbs all those fumes and residues mechanic machines spit out.

And as they say it "what goes in, must come out"
and it does on rainy moments !

As thán especially the Magistrale, the coastal road from high up in the north  into the very south gets dangerously slippery.

And with dangerously I do mean DANGEROUSLY !!!

In general the entire coastal road is fantastic, with thousands of beautiful views and hundreds of villages and towns to stop for a coffee or a walk.

When however driving Croatia's most scenic road (eat your heart out Route 66), you must know:

1. you're not alone.

2. adjust your speed when entering a village.

3. álways keep distance.

4. pay attention to entering/leaving traffic from "hidden" roads.

5. watch out for speeding motorbikes and scooters.

6. and last but not least:

íf rain threatens to fall after a couple of sunny days, be aware, 

or better wait till it's dry again, 

as thán this fantastic road becomes slippery as hell !

If you ever experienced driving on ice (or mayonnaise :-)
you know what that means.

The oily residue makes the asphalt truly dangerous, and it's not unusual pebbles and even rocks come down from higher parts.

To cars it's already a real threat, to motorbikes a disaster to happen.

So enjoy this magnificent road, but take care,
as you don't want to end in hospital (or worse).

Even though Croatian hospitals offer perfect healthcare :-).

imotski, two breath taking lakes, but also.........

but also ..........RICICE !

I know, I know, there is more to see in Imotski, and yes, those two famous lakes áre special.

But my choice is a small village called Ricice !

(Look on the map, it's there since ages).

Coming from Svinisce (our home) it's a wonderfull trip, heading for Zadvarje, Sestanovac, Cista Provo, and on,
till you see a small road direction Studenci.

Take that road, narrow but pleasant, following the signs to Ricice.

Perhaps sometimes you'll mistake, no problem, as it's all an interesting ride, through rapidly changing landscapes.

One moment you'll see this panorama, and there it is, Ricice.

Hardly known, worth however to be more known,
as it's absolutely and stunningly beautiful.

Especially on a sunny day (most summer days :-),
as than the lake shows it's amazing colour.

But not only the colour is beautiful, as you will see.

The lake is truly a gem, from whatever side you look at it, and there are many spots to either look at or walk to.

When we, as recently, have family or friends over, Ricice is always on my list, and they all agree, it's a gorgeous lake !

Again I am surprised so little people know it, and even for golf fanatics (not me) this might be the very best place to create a golf course, through an already lovely shaped landscape, from one green to the next, hitting hard (or putting tenderly).

Building a country hotel, overlooking the scenic landscape,
sipping from a glass of splendid Imotski wine
(yes they make excellent local wines there),
enjoying the unique relaxing atmosphere of Total Inland Dalmatia.

PS.

Coming from Imotski it's less than ten minutes by car, 
from Split its let's say a one hour's trip.

dalmatian windmill

Laughing windmill

Never ask your wife's opinion about your blog pages :-)

How about that for an intro.

Well, after a nice dinner (which I prepared, as usual) we had a small conversation about my blog pages.

She confronted me with the fact that I once in a while mention my best friend Robert of MALIMLIN.

So, what about him ?

He and I, whenever he has the time, 

get out to discover new places in our area.

Most of the time we're rather lazy, driving around, 

having a chat about how terrible life is in this horrible part of Croatia.

(Just kidding, but that's our common joke).

Whenever we see something, we stop the car and get going, 

yes even on foot.

I rather travel (super-) light, so I leave my camera in the car, 

and Robert is the donkey :-)

Besides, mine is a simple Powershot G3, his is a sophisticated picture machine with more buttons than my shirt.

So he drags the tools, I just walk and talk, as knowledge of stone formations, plants and herbs are my part of the "work" (see this, smell that, try these), his job is to take pictures of it all.

And after another trip into paradise, as that's what it is, he sends me a couple of pictures, to which I write a page on this blog.

Not being connected to anything or anybody (except my wife) I once in a while mention Robert is the guy to contact if you, visiting Dalmatia,are looking for details or some professional guidance.

The reasons are quite simple, I am not for rent, sale, use, and contacting me to be of help is wasted time.

I am not available, I am free after enough years of obligations, appointments and deadlines.

(Reason why I don't have a watch, cellphone or agenda).

But you, my dearest readers, you might want to follow our footsteps and are desperately looking for some professional service.

Well, lucky you, as Robert is the owner of MALIMLIN , a tourist agency like so many in Omis, bút.... it's his pride and joy to offer the very best value for money.

Don't they all do that, you may ask ?

No, they don't, at least not all of them, the bastards :-)

Knowing Robert however, he loves Dalmatia as much as I do, and does an excellent job, being apartments, car rental or the commonly asked excursions to all those special places.

But, and thát really makes his service special, he can offer you tailor made trips, in which whenever he has the time, takes you to wherever you like or he suggests you after a friendly chat.

And that's why I sometimes (according to my wife many times) mention MALIMLIN, which by the way means small windmill.

As however we live in Dalmatia, we're Dutch as Dutch can be.

Which means we eat tulip bulbs, walk on wooden shoes, 

and put a finger in every dyke :-)

So to end this "no good for nothing" page, do like Robert and I, get out into Dalmatia behind the coastal mountains, experience how f@cking special it is, but don't ask me for service, as thán you'd better contact Robert, the guy of MALIMLIN .

As I prefer to be what I am, FREE at last !

PS.

Click on the picture and have a closer look, 

as this typical Dutch windmill is either laughing or hungry.

CNN (not the Croatian National Network :-)

(click to enlarge)

Having my last coffee of the day, I almost always sit behind my pc.

One of the things I do is check a couple of websites to find information about how to keep my vegetables alive and kicking under our hot sun, in dry heavy soil (clay, stones).

Before you (try to) ask me, they are fine :-)

I seeded a wide variety of tomatoes, peppers, salads, herbs and other vegetables, and óne (yes 1) potato.

This potato needs a bit of extra info.

I stole it from Biokovo :-(

Reason is that those Biokovo potatoes seem to be véry special.

Well to tell you the truth, they are not, as I did my research and discovered there are two varieties growing on tiny patches of workable soil on that harsh mountain.

Perhaps these harsh conditions create special potatoes, but I am gonna find out, as I stole one, and planted it in my secret vegetable garden.

In fact, all I seed, grow, plant and harvest is just a hobby, partly to eat the very best I can "produce", but also because I want to see the results, and if possible, reproduce and share with our friends.

So perhaps some day our neighbours will be producing "biokovo potatoes" here, depending on my experimental results.

But enough about my green experiments, as I want to share an item I discovered on the internet.

I stumbled over a page where CNN wrote about twenty (20) places you must see in Croatia.

All of them magnificent indeed, but most of them known to the world already.

I checked all twenty of them, but did not see anything on Svinisce or Omis or the Cetina River.

Come on CNN, what a horrible error, as this tip should be no less than # 21 on your list.

Ok, can't blame CNN, as their information came from the Croatian National Tourist Board.

Well than, CNTB, next time do a better job, as # 21 is no doubt as great as all other splendid twenty tips, if not even greater.

So you, dear reader of this blog, better add # 21 to your list, as Svinisce is special, as are Omis and the entire Cetina River.

As once you start to explore this gem, including an "expedition" into the Dalmatinska Zagora (the hinterland), you'll understand why I shared this item with you.
See those other twenty on www.cnn.com.

PS.

Recently the EU granted a giant sum of money (240.000.000 euros !!!) to start up a cross border project, in order to revitalize and  open up this magnificent region.

So don't wait, as you can already explore and experience this area, worth every penny invested in it, but already open and vital to people like me and you.

And believe me (as usual), you won't regret it, and it's for FREE !!!

visit Omis

There's a new kid on the block in Omis.

His name is www.visit-omis.com.

People who follow my "no good for nothing" pages, 

know I always try to add some interesting details, so you decide to make Omis (and surroundings !!) your choice to spend your holidays.

Much to my surprise a new website showed up, using the gap the official tourist website still didn't fill.

I wont go into details about that old fashioned tz.website,
just want to say:
"WAKE UP TZ " as season 2014 has started !

Ok, back to "visit Omis" as I love fresh initiatives that present and promote the many opportunities Omis has to offer.

And that's a lot more than "just" the old centre or the large sandy, kids friendly beach.

I truly and strongly believe Omis has the bést possibilities to become thé place to go.

Ok, there are no discotheques, and still I am looking for a restaurant that does nót serve pizza's.

Ah, and being negative for once, a walk along the Cetina is close to a death wish, as your every step is shared with passing cars.

(Do contact me for a simple, inexpensive solution, creating a basic, 

yet pleasant footpath from Omis to let's say Kastil Slanica). 

But apart from these small flaws, Omis has it áll.

And with áll I do mean ALL.

Give me óne place where there is such a beach, such a canyon, such charming town centre, so much magnificent nature and so many active sports (even for lazy people like me).

Give me óne place close to Split, Trogir, Makarska, Salona, even Dubrovnik, with highway and airport near  enough,
but not disturbing your well deserved peace.

Give me, to continue, óne place with Mosor, Omiska Dinara, Biokovo, even Krka and so much more within reach.

And to finish this list, as a bonus you get the Dalmatinska Zagora, with móre hidden gems than many people will ever discover.
Dó make that trip, keeping the Cetina on your léft. following the entire river from end to beginning, stopping in Blato, Trilj, Grab, Sinj, with a swim in Perusko Lake, perhaps even a hike on Dinara, the border mountains (with the highest peak of all Croatia), to end at the very beginning of the river in the village called Cetina
(what's in a name).
As than you'll understand our love for this specific area of Dalmatia.

In short, we left Holland to live here in Svinisce,
and we love every minute here.

Driving down takes only five minutes to reach the Cetina (delicious swimming on a hot summer's day), five more to go to Brzet's beaches and coves and our favourite restaurant Zvizdan (serving pizza's, but also some other nicely prepared food). 

And for shopping there are plenty possibilities, and if you don't like the service of Studenac (with a ridiculous empty bottle system), it takes less than half an hour to shop in either Lidl, Kaufland, the mega Konzum or even City Center One.

As soon as Studenac (great store, great offer, nice workers) decides to upgrade it's service with a decent machine to put in empty bottles I'll be the first to tell !!

Enough ! Gotovo !

I just wanted to tell there is a new website,
called www.visit-omis.com

So better have a look yourself, and once there, look at the page called www.podaspilje.com as it is one of the perfect offers for people who like to have it all.
(Peace, nature, a stunning panorama,
and still less than ten minutes from all Omis has to offer).

PS. 
I am in nó way connected to any of the offers written on this page.
I am just the piano player, so to say :-)

weather in Croatia

Sure, weather in Croatian summer is (almost) always splendid.

With seawater at around 25 C.
 and air temperature hardly ever below 30 C. 

you can call Dalmatia a sun- and summer-lover's paradise.

Than why show this picture ?

Because it's made by Aleksandar Gospic !
A nature lover, a mountain lover, 

but most of all, a gifted photographer.

If interested in how he sees Croatia, have a look at his website, 

stuffed with the most beautiful shots one can dream of.

Go and have a look:

www.aleksandargospic.com

As I am just taking simple snapshots,

you better have a look through his camera,
focussing on Dalmacija.

  Warning:   

you might fall in love, 

as that's what happens to so many people
once they have decided to visit this part of Croatia.

So don't say I didn't warn you :-)

dalmatia outdoors, so why not like this

(Picture by Vjeco Begovic on Dalmatia Outdoors.)

There are many ways to experience Dalmatia,
or should I say tó many :-)

Most people come to Dalmatia because of it's pristine seawater,
the great weather, the relaxing atmosphere, the organic food or the many islands, ancient cities, friendly people,
fairly decent prices and so much more.

An increasing lot of people however, the more active ones, have discovered Dalmatia is a paradise for active sports,
whatever you choose.

And not only at the Adriatic, but also in the Zagora (the hinterland).

Or even better, combining the two.

With so much fantastic nature, mountains, caves, rivers, lakes and meandering roads, it's impossible to say "uh well, I went there but didn't find a spot for my favourite sporting activity".

Unless you're a Formula One fan, as than we'll have to disappoint you. 

As than you'd better go to Belgium, Monaco, Germany or Dubai :-)

But even the motorised community, especially those on motor bikes, find in Dalmatia the perfect setting for trips into the country.

And believe me (why not for once), if you have only one week, you'll have to phone home you'll be staying for another couple of weeks as you never stop finding new scenic roads, marvellous panoramas, unique spots, sleepy little villages (like ours), with friendly people who are always interested in you, offering you a drink or even a meal.

Only problem still, is the (total) lack of official small camp sites, as being a nature lover, you prefer to sleep under a star sprinkled sky.

But things are changing, as while you discover Dalmatia, also Dalmatia is discovering why you choose to roll out your sleeping bag or put up your shelter for the night near that small town with that charming little restaurant, and that terrace where locals gather around their pride and joy, local wine from local wine producers.

As once you have discovered how extremely open minded, social and friendly people are in the Zagora, you're gonna come back,
so much I know, as we now live here !

And to all active people, climbers, divers, cavers, hikers,
 I'd like to add:
you ain't seen nothing yet

Do click on this line, as most girls here do have brown eyes :-)

And if in the mood for some action,
have a look on dalmatiaoutdoors for some great ideas.

Bee-Eater: Prološko Blato or Amazon Jungle ?

The Amazon Jungle may be great,
Prološko Blato however only takes a thirty minute drive :-)

Last Sunday my good friend Robert (of malimlin) and I went on one of our regular discovery trips in the area.

This time we headed for Imotski, famous for it's two stunning lakes (red- and blue lake).

But that was not our goal, as there are móre lakes there !

Each of those lakes, easy to see or well hidden, has a typical character, all of them a result of the structure of our type of rocks, called karst.

Most rain and snow disappear rapidly under the rocky surface, however disappearing may not be the proper word, as it always pops up again somewhere :-).

 Prolosko Lake (Prološko Blato) this time was our goal, as there this phenomenon of suddenly appearing water is seen at it's best. 

In fact Prolosko Lake isn't a real lake, but an accumulation of water, changing in size throughout the seasons.

We found what we were looking for, the lake was still a lake, supplying the immense surrounding agricultural land with water.

So after we took a look at the lake, we descended to scroll through the entire area, and discovered what every birdwatcher calls:
 pure delight.

!!!!!

  Bee eaters 

(Merops apiaster)
The European Bee eater to be precise.

First we saw one, than a couple and after some minutes
a whóle group of at least fifty,
including their nests, built in a sandy cliff.

Wow, whát a bird !

If you think of going to the Amazon Jungle, forgét it,
come to Imotski.

Their sound, their flight, those colours, those habits, ámázíng !!!

We saw and heard a couple of other birds,
all of them already a bonus for a fantastic day, 

but these bee eaters, they are truly thé most amazing discovery.

So if you're thinking of having a beach vacation in Dalmatia, and if you're a nature lover, do contact Robert, as apart from any other tourist service he offers (apartments, day trips, adventure), these specific discoveries are the cherries on his (ánd your cake).

He'll most gladly organise what you love to experience, being your private guide to one of the many hidden secrets of Dalmatia.

(Don't ask me, as I am retired, and véry busy).

But Robert will,  still leaving you plenty of time to get a sun burn, a hang over and some souvenirs, 

but also a Dalmatian experience you'll never forget.

PS.

As soon as possible I'll put some of our own pictures on this page.

Omis + Almissa + Telepil = Odyssey

(Picture found on Amazon.com)

Always looking for interesting details about the area we now live in,
I stumbled over an amazing theory.

The town called Omis today, where the Cetina River enters the Adriatic Sea, was called Almissa in ancient times.

Before that however, in Greek times,  it was called T(h)elepil.

And there a most remarkable theory begins.

As Zlatko Mandzuka (and other writers),
researched the myth of Odyssey's travels.

To keep things easy, I'll use the current town's name Omis.

Omis always was (and still is :-) a pirates nest.

Through history the Omis people used to benefit from the fact ships were following this coast, navigating to and from Venice.

I call it benefiting but in fact is was simple looting.

As ships passing carried valuable cargo, so why not take what you can get, still leaving enough for wealthy Venice.

Town and it's fortresses still clearly show the remains of those days, and the proud people of Omis organise a sort of historic battle every summer to commemorate those "glorious" days.

But.... deeper into history, is still the myth about Odyssey,
which cleverer people than me try to demystify.

Based on research and good thinking the myth slowly becomes
plausible theory.

As a hobby sailor I can imagine the logics of the theory:

it simple makes sense !

Sailors did not sail into the blue when they could follow the coast, and the Adriatic coast offers and offered a safe passage, with plenty of secluded harbours, and a fair amount of usable winds.

Therefore it makes sense they did not sail the Mediterranean,
but the Adriatic !

And with evidence based prove of Greeks having been on Hvar, Brac and other islands, all of them near Omis, it also makes sense Omis was a hideout when storms made navigating impossible.

Which brought some sailors into the mouth of the Cetina River, where, like I said, them Omis' pirates ruled. 

And as the theory goes, that is where Odyssey got in trouble.

Well, not being a historian, if interested you'd better buy the book and read the story.
Or even better, buy the book, and book a boat trip from the offer of foodscruise.com
as they sail you to Omis and many other historic locations.
And moreover, they won't stuff you with a pizza
or some grilled minimalistic food,
as their organic standards are truly very high.
As yes, Dalmatia is thé place to be if you prefer a healthy lifestyle.

About Omis/Almissa/Telepil,
you can see it today, much preserved in original shape, especially the landscape,
so come and see it for yourself.

As landscapes hardly ever change, it's possible to imagine what our hero saw in those ancient times.

And those pirates, oh well, today everybody is most welcome, and them pirates only make a lot of noise once a year,
in a bit of theatrical show.

So don't be afraid you will be eaten or looted like in those days,
unless you buy some souvenir,
as than you'll discover they are still after your money :-).

PS.

Much to my surprise the official Tourist Service in Omis 
seems to be unaware of this fantastic opportunity to make use of this amazing history. 

Their website still needs some "veliki bura",
as they seem to be like those old pirates:

just wait and see what treasures are passing, 
in stead of being pro active.

Wake up Telepil !
You are in a UNIQUE position, still not making proper use of it !

(And as always, if you want to comment, my email address in the header of this blog).