Essential Culinary Croatia

Featuring Extraordinary Experiences: Truffle Hunting in Istria Private Wine & Olive Oil Tasting in Istria Private Istrian Cooking Class Private Cooking Class in Split Private Oyster Tasting in Ston Private Wine Tasting in Konavle

Itinerary at a Glance: Day 1 Jun 9 Arrival into Ljubljana and Transfer to

Rovinj Day 2 Jun 10 Istrian Countryside Day 3 Jun 11 Private Istrian Cooking Class Day 4 Jun 12 Rovinj – Etnoland – Split Day 5 Jun 13 Split Day 6 Jun 14 Private Cooking Class in Split Day 7 Jun 15 Split – Ston – Dubrovnik Day 8 Jun 16 Dubrovnik Day 9 Jun 17 Dalmatian Countryside Day 10 Jun 18 Departure

Why Exeter International? At Exeter International we have been creating memories and crafting our trademark extraordinary journeys to Central Europe, Russia, Scandinavia, and Central Asia for 25 years. Our specialty is to distill the best of the best in iconic places that are on so many people’s travel must-do list. We are not a call center of nameless, faceless people. We do not try to be everything to everyone. We are a small team of specialists. We are all committed to providing the best travel experiences to our destinations. Each member of our team has travelled extensively throughout our destinations, giving them insider knowledge lacking in many other tour operators. Our Extraordinary Experiences are different, unusual, and often closed to the general public. We can offer special insider access that takes you beyond the typical tourist sites. We know how important it is to remain authentic and increasingly going beyond the well-known sites is what is important to our guests—discovering the little-known museum or street market that adds to their experience. We do this through our local knowledge, cultivating our extensive contacts and regularly visiting each destination to enable us to share the most up-to-date insider information with you, our valued partner. The most important part of your trip will be your guides. Guides come in many quality levels, especially in our part of the world. We have worked with a core group of the best of the best for over 20 years. We know them like family and if they weren't the best, they wouldn't work for us. Simply stated, a guide can make or break your experience. You should have 100% confidence in who is introducing you to your guide and the level of guiding that you are going to get throughout the countries you will be visiting. The best does indeed cost more and we pay our guides at the very top of the market, with pride. You'll also want to know what kind of vehicle your tour will include. We use luxury late-model vehicles, often Mercedes, Audi, BMW, or Volkswagen, depending on the size of the vehicle you need. You'll want to see things that may or may not be open to the public and go in early or after hours before the crowds whenever possible. We also make every effort to skip lines whenever possible. Avoiding long museum lines is one of our top priorities and we work hard to minimize the wait time to get into the most popular sights in each city, maximizing your time in each destination. You'll want impeccable planning and someone to bounce ideas off of before your trip and speak English as well as you do while planning your trip so there are no cultural misunderstandings when you arrive. You'll also want someone to talk to if your trip is not perfect when you get home. These are all ways that we distinguish ourselves from all other companies. A lot goes into our travel program design. We arrange the program so that it is flawless and effortless for our travelers from the time they set foot in the first city until they leave us. The expertise to set up an itinerary like this comes after years of investing in staff on both sides of the Atlantic, and this too is a value that is incorporated into our traveler's trips with us.

Sunday, June 9 Arrival into Ljubljana and Transfer to Rovinj Upon arrival in Ljubljana, you will be met by your private driver who will be waiting for you just outside of customs after you pick up your luggage. You will be transferred to your hotel in Rovinj, approximately 2.5 hours away. Exeter Services Transfer Ljubljana - Rovinj Hotel Monte Mulini

Day 1

Monday, June 10 Istrian Countryside Today, embark with your guide and driver on a tour of the beautiful towns and villages of Istria. The interior of Istria is very different from its coast. Your first visit today will be the artist colony of Groznjan. This hilltop town was all but deserted after WWII until being revitalized as a center for artists. Groznjan is also a favorite of musicians, as the International Cultural Centre of Young Musicians has its seat here. You will have time to wander the twisting streets, filled with shops from local artisans, or perhaps to take in an impromptu music or drama performance in the main square.

Riding through the rugged and hilly terrain you will come to the medieval ruins of the town of Motovun, which suddenly springs into view. Motovun is an excellent example of the ancient townships that dotted the Istrian peninsula long ago. We think it’s worth the long trek up to the top of the hill, so eat a hearty breakfast! Motovun is a medieval city that dates back to the 12th century, which thankfully remained intact owing to its hilltop location and walled fortifications. Exeter International Extraordinary Experience Visit Livade, a small village in the Istrian countryside famous for being one of the best truffle regions in Europe. White Istrian truffles are among the most expensive in the world, and harvesting them is a local tradition going back centuries. Enjoy a truffle hunting demonstration, guided by an expert and a trained dog (pigs are no longer used in Croatia). Top off the experience with a fabulous truffle tasting at a local konoba. Truffle tasting is payable locally. Exeter International Extraordinary Experience This afternoon you will also be invited to a private wine and olive oil tasting at one of the private family vineyards in Istria. Exeter Services Vehicle, Driver & Guide (8 Hours) Hotel Monte Mulini

Day 2

Tuesday, June 11 Private Istrian Cooking Class This morning, meet your driver and guide who will transfer you to Zminj, where you will enjoy a private Istrian cooking class. Exeter International Extraordinary Experience Istrians like to say, “If all the roads in Europe lead to Rome, then all the roads in Istria lead to Zminj”, as it is the crossroads of the peninsula. In this small village, there is a little tavern called Puli Pineta. Here, the owner, Mr. Pino awaits you. Pino is a professional chef with a remarkable career behind him. He has cooked for some of the most important people in the country including Croatian president Mesic.

Pino decided to open up his restaurant where he would be able to cook only what he finds to be of the very best quality, but which also paints a portrait of Istria and life in it. He buys all of his ingredients from locals – fruit & vegetable producers, farmers, fisherman, olive oil & wine producers. You will be invited to his small tavern kitchen, where he will share his gastronomical ideology and ask your assistance in cooking delicious, traditional and authentic local dishes. Please notify us of any allergies, dietary restrictions, and preferences. Exeter Services Vehicle, Driver & Guide (6 Hours) Hotel Monte Mulini

Day 3

Wednesday, June 12 Rovinj – Split via Etnoland Early this morning, meet your driver for your transfer to Split. This will be your longest drive. Along the way, you will make a stop at Etnoland Dalmati Pakovo selo to enjoy a guided tour. At Etnoland, guests may experience the Dalmatian culture up close. This little village was created to portray the traditions and customs of Dalmatia, as well as its food, nature, and the spirit of the past. You may enjoy an interesting and interactive guided tour of the village with a tasting of the famous “Drniški pršut” (Drniš smoked ham) and homemade wine. Afterwards, you will be served a lunch consisting of mixed peka (roasted meat). Late this afternoon, continue your drive to your hotel in Split. Exeter Services Private Transfer Rovinj – Split via Etnoland Hotel Park Split

Day 4

Thursday, June 13 Split This morning, meet your guide to explore the city of Split, including the ancient Diocletian Palace. Diocletian’s Palace, facing onto the Split harbor, is one of the most impressive Roman architectural monuments in the world and is protected as a UNESCO Heritage Site. The Roman Emperor Diocletian, noted for his persecution of early Christians, was a native of nearby Salona before rising through the Roman military ranks to be eventually crowned emperor by his legions. He ruled for 20 years before abdicating and retiring to this palace. After his death, the palace was abandoned until the 7th century when refugees from the surrounding areas, fleeing foreign invasions, sought shelter within the palace’s protective walls. In the following centuries, the population outgrew its capacity and the town sprawled outside the walls. Today, Split is a major port and industrial center, as well as a perfect base for day trips to nearby attractions. You will have the chance to explore with your Exeter guide the more than 200 buildings within the boundaries of the Diocletian Palace complex, many of which are still homes, while others house cafes, restaurants, and shops. Like a typical Roman fort, in its original form the palace had a square layout and was surrounded by a thick wall with gates and watchtowers. Some of the best-preserved sites you can visit are the Vestibule, the Temple of Jupiter, the Peristyle, and Diocletian’s Mausoleum – now the Cathedral of St. Dominus. Exeter Services Guide (4 Hours) Hotel Park Split

Day 5

Friday, June 14 Private Cooking Class in Split This morning at 9AM, you will be picked up at your hotel by the Chef for a unique cooking class. First, you will visit the local vegetables market and a fish market, where you will be able to pick out the ingredients that you would like to use in your dish. Afterwards, make the short walk to the cooking school where you will enjoy a welcome drink and snack before the cooking class starts. During this hands-on class, the Chef will guide each of you in preparing a fantastic Dalmatian dish that you all will enjoy for lunch at the end of the class. Don’t forget to try some of the Croatian wines that the Chef provides as well! Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. Exeter Services None Hotel Park Split

Day 6

Saturday, June 15 Split – Dubrovnik via Ston Today you will continue your journey with a private transfer to Dubrovnik. Exeter Extraordinary Experience En route, you will drive to the Peljesac Peninsula, which, similar to other coastal settlements, was first colonized by the Greeks, later by the Romans and Byzantines, and in the Middle Ages often changed hands between the Venetian and Ragusan Republics. The peninsula is known for its fine vineyards and the best oysters in Dalmatia, farmed in the town of Ston. Upon arrival in Mali Ston you will enjoy a 45-minute private boat tour. You will head to the oyster banks and see how oysters and mussels are being cultivated in the region. Your tour will be on a private boat and will include an oyster and mussels tasting. Afterwards, join your oyster farmer on his little private island for a picnic lunch hosted by his family. You’ll have an oyster tasting and a light lunch of local specialties, along with local wine. Late afternoon arrival into Dubrovnik and the remainder of your evening is at leisure. Exeter Services Transfer Split – Dubrovnik via Ston Hotel Excelsior

Day 7

Sunday, June 16 Dubrovnik This morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel for an overview walking tour of the historic center of Dubrovnik, which is protected as a UNESCO Heritage site. Guests of Villa Dubrovnik are invited to use the hotel’s private motorboat to transfer to Old Town and you won’t want to miss this entrance into the historic district! Begin in Dubrovnik’s main square - the Loggia Loza, situated at the eastern extremity of the Stradun – the centuries-old promenade which runs through the walled city from East to West. Your guide will take you into the Rector’s Palace. The Rector was the highest authority in the city and his palace now houses the Museum of Dubrovnik. Over 15,000 works are on display documenting the economic and cultural history of the city. You can also visit the Dubrovnik Cathedral and its treasury famous for the ancient relics including a fragment of the ‘true cross’ on which it is believed that Jesus was crucified. If you like, you may visit Dubrovnik’s Sephardic Synagogue. The synagogue was established in the 15th century, survived earthquakes and wars, and is still in service today. Make sure to see the Franciscan monastery of the “Order of Minor Friars” (Ordo Fratrum Minorum) which includes one of the three oldest pharmacies in Europe, still serving customers. Part of the Franciscans’ mission was to take care of the health of the local residents, so they opened the pharmacy in 1317 and it has been in operation ever since. The monastery contains numerous medieval pharmacists’ tools and medical books which belonged to the English kings’ physicians, as well as 10th-Century manuscripts. Later, we highly recommend a walk into town and a walk atop the fortress walls surrounding the Old Town. Just over a mile long, this stroll will help you get your bearings and enjoy the splendid views of the historic Dubrovnik and the sea. The fortification includes several bastions, the tallest of which is the Minceta Tower, located just near the Pile gate in the north-western part of the town. Note: All touring today is on foot on cobblestones. Please wear appropriate footwear.

Exeter Services Guide (4 Hours) Hotel Excelsior

Day 8

Monday, June 17 Dalmatian Countryside This morning, your driver and guide will take you farther south along the Dalmatian coast to the town of Cavtat. This historic town dates back to the 6th Century BC and was first a Greek colony and later a Roman town called Ephidaurum. When Slav tribes invaded the area in the 7th century, the local population sought refuge up the coast where they established Ragusa, which later expanded to become today’s Dubrovnik. Today, Cavtat is one of the most charming towns on the coast and retains a small town, laid-back ambience. Of historic interest here is the Baltazar Bogisic Collection, which includes many fine paintings and works of art and is housed in a 16th century Count’s Palace. You will also see a Franciscan monastery from the 16th century and a monument designed by Mestrovic. Exeter International Extraordinary Experience Today you will visit the winery of Niko Karaman, a local enologist who is quickly making a name for his tiny operation. He’s known for dry wines and exquisite sweet Prosek (dessert wine) that he makes from rare indigenous grapes. His wines have already been awarded the title of World’s Best Dessert Wine in 2009. Later, you will be treated to a private cooking class on a small family run farm. The family’s property is located in the Konavle region, in the village of Lovorno. You will be welcomed with local liquor, desserts, and dried figs. The cooking class is presented by the 70-year-old matriarch who will help you pick the necessary ingredients from the garden in order to prepare the meal, in addition to sharing her cultivation methods. After that you will have the opportunity to go to the kitchen where you will learn how to prepare some Dalmatian dishes and homemade bread. You will also visit some of the family’s livestock; picking fresh eggs from the chicken coup, and if you are up to the challenge, you can milk a goat, however this is completely voluntary. The property also has a viewpoint where you can enjoy a stunning view of the Konavle valley. Exeter Services Vehicle, Driver & Guide (8 Hours) Hotel Excelsior

Day 9

Tuesday, June 18 Departure Morning at leisure before check-out and the transfer to the airport to meet your departing flight. Exeter Services Departure Transfer

Day 10

Cost of the Program: $

For two (2) guests traveling together

April - May From $8,000

June From $8,675

July - August From $9,350

September From $9,125

October - onward From $7,750

For Four (4) guests traveling together

April - May From $6,150

June From $6,800

July - August From $7,475

September From $7,250

October - onward From $5,900

All pricing is per person and based on double occupancy. Airfare is not included.

What's

Included

Accommodations Rovinj Deluxe Room for 3 nights at the Hotel Monte Mulini; tax and breakfast included. This new hotel is without a doubt the best in Rovinj, a charming and popular town on the Istrian Peninsula. Hidden in a centuries-old Zlatni Park forest and right on the Lone Bay, the hotel is a 20-minute walk to the city’s center. With its 113 rooms and suites, Zen spa with a pool, and several saunas, it is the perfect base to relax for a few days or to explore the Istrian Peninsula. All rooms feature private balconies, satellite television, and air-conditioning. Bathrooms are generous in size and most feature dual sinks, separate bath and shower, and luxurious amenities. Hotel amenities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a basketball court, restaurants, bars, and a wine cellar. Deluxe Room: Deluxe Rooms offer approximately 400 square feet and can accommodate one king bed or two twin beds. Rooms on higher floors feature a balcony with a direct sea view. Split Deluxe Room Sea View for 3 nights at the Hotel Park Split; tax and breakfast included. The Park Hotel is located in the very center of town, next to the famous Bačvice Beach and just a short walk from the Diocletian’s Palace. It has 73 luxury rooms and recently reopened after a top-to-bottom renovation. The Restaurant Bruna provides a refined dining experience, while the Lounge Bar, the Winter Garden, and the beautiful terrace provide a more eclectic range of dining and entertainment options. The hotel offers an outdoor pool as well as a spa and wellness center and a gym. Deluxe Room Sea View: These spacious rooms span over two floors. The lower floor contains the living room, and the upper floor features the bedroom that accommodates a king bed or twin beds. Guests will enjoy a stunning view over the sea. Dubrovnik Deluxe Room Odak for 3 nights at the Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik; tax and breakfast included. With a total of 158 rooms and suites, the Excelsior is located just a few steps from the Dubrovnik Old Town and overlooks the Adriatic Sea. First opened in 1913, the hotel was completely refurbished and renovated recently. This is the closest cliff-side hotel to the Old Town and many rooms offer superb views of the Adriatic and the quintessential view of Old Town Dubrovnik. These are the newest luxury rooms in Dubrovnik. Rooms in the Tower feature clean lines and contemporary décor. Rooms in the former royal Villa Odak feature more traditional décor. Besides its prime location, it also features 4 restaurants, an excellent, and a fresh water pool. Deluxe Room Odak: Deluxe Rooms have approximately 310 square feet of space and feature a sea view and balcony. Bedding can be either two twins or a king bed. Their new design features a nice mix of the traditional architectural features of Villa Odak along with clean modern lines and wood floors. Meals No meals included, other than breakfast as described above. Your final documents will include our top recommendations. Your guides will recommend restaurants that fit your exact needs daily.

Services Private vehicle, driver and guide at your service as described. The timing for each day is noted in your program. Exeter International’s local offices are available for your assistance 24 hours per day while you are traveling. Our local staff may also assist you with restaurant reservations and purchasing of additional theater and museum tickets at your request. Transportation Transportation is included as noted. Unless otherwise noted, all transfer service is with a driver only, not a guide. In general, drivers have limited English-speaking skills. Timing for each day is noted in your program. Guides Hand chosen for their knowledge on local history, art, and architecture. Guides are at your disposal as noted in your itinerary. Tickets All entrance tickets as described in the program. Exeter International Travel Information BAGGAGE The vehicles reserved for your itinerary can accommodate up to two medium-sized suitcases per person. If you intend to travel with additional luggage, please advise your travel consultant so appropriate arrangements may be made. In general, we schedule a sedan for parties of two, a minivan for parties of three to four, and a minibus for parties of five or more. SIGHTSEEING Sightseeing arrangements have been made with your special interests in mind. Your drivers and guides are at your disposal as indicated in the itinerary. Within those time and mileage guidelines, you are free to modify your program as you please. Should you require additional time or mileage, the costs will be quoted on request and may be paid for locally in the local currency or U.S. Dollars. Every effort has been made to confirm that scheduled sightseeing venues will be open at the time you plan to visit them. However, individual estates, museums, gardens and other points of interest can change their hours of operation at short notice. In the event that a particular attraction is closed on the day or time of your visit, your guide will offer alternative arrangements or rearrange your sightseeing to accommodate these unexpected events. OPTIONAL EXPENSES Charges for extra meals, transport, sightseeing services or other optional additions to your established itinerary are your responsibility and must be paid locally in the local currency. GRATUITIES Gratuities are not included in your tour price. Gratuities are at your own discretion. We recommend $30 per person, per day for your guide and $15 per person, per day for your driver. For your airport or station transfer, a gratuity of $20 is customary, based on service. Dollars, Euros and any local currency are all accepted. DINING WITH YOUR GUIDE On days when dinner and lunch costs have not been included in your itinerary (or in your tour cost), you may, at your discretion, choose to invite your guide to dine with your party. You are under no obligation to do so but, if you do extend such an invitation, the guide is your guest and you will be responsible for the cost of his/her meal.

Booking Conditions PAYMENTS Exeter International must receive a deposit of 25% of the total program cost before reservations for your independent travel program can be initiated. The balance of payment is due 60 days prior to departure. No reservations are made on your behalf until this deposit has been received. Availability and pricing is subject to change until this deposit is received. All deposits are nonrefundable. CANCELLATION Written cancellations received fewer than 60 days prior to departure are subject to the following forfeit of tour cost:

• 59–14 days prior to departure, 50% of total tour cost • 14 or less days prior to departure, 100% of tour cost

REFUNDS We regret that refunds cannot be issued for arrangements confirmed on your itinerary but unused once your tour has begun. INSURANCE Exeter International strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance to protect your investment. You will find insurance costs noted on your invoice and insurance coverage information in your original booking packet. PRICES AND ARRANGEMENTS Once an itinerary is finalized and final payment has been made, a $100 revision fee will be charged if the itinerary is changed. The tour price includes planning, handling and operational charges. Rates are quoted in U.S. Dollars on the current rate of exchange and tariff as of 2018. Exeter International reserves the right to increase tour prices to cover increased costs, tariffs and taxes, and to reflect fluctuations in foreign exchange markets. Devaluation of a foreign currency will be weighed against any tariff increases imposed. Exeter International does not breakdown costs involved in any Small Group or Individual Travel Program.

All arrangements are subject to availability and modification if necessary. Prices are subject to change if necessary until paid in full.

Exeter International

www.exeterinternational.com 111 South Dakota Avenue | Tampa, Florida 33606

Phone: 813 251 5355 | 800 633 1008 | Fax: 813 251 6685