Discovering Dubrovnik: The Pearl of the Adriatic with a Twisted Sense of Humour
Jammed between the rugged ridges of the Dinaric Alps and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik’s charm is as timeless as it is captivating. Marvel at the town’s imposing stone walls, built to protect the city from the Turks in the 7th century, that have since improved their people-crowd management game. They now play bouncer to the bustling city within, giving peeping-toms a run for their money. Drop by at Placa ul. 20000, Dubrovnik to witness these wonder walls.
When you’ve had your fill of the historic hustle, prepare to be entertained by Dubrovnik’s unique sense of humour. Swing by the Rector’s Palace at Ul. Pred Dvorom 3, 20000, Dubrovnik, to find a delightful juxtaposition of ancient grandeur with mischievous wit. An age-old inscription, now a city motto, proclaims ‘Libertas’, which translates to ‘Liberty’ — but the twist in the tale is the city’s insatiable appetite for rules. It’s like an indulgent grandmother, firmly declaring, ‘Yes, you may have your liberty, but not your shirt off in public, thank you very much!’
Dubrovnik is not a city in a hurry. It’s comparable to a leisurely sip of a well-aged Plavac Mali wine, full of unexpected surprises. Try catching a play at the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, held every year from 10th July to 25th August at various locations throughout the city. You’ll be simply tickled pink by historical dramas portrayed with a comedic angle that gives Monty Python a run for their money.
Navigating Narrow Alleys and Eating Octopus: Unconventional Travel Tips for Dubrovnik
Finding your way around Dubrovnik’s narrow, cobblestone alleys is a bit like playing Pac-Man, except that instead of chasing ghosts, you’re dodging hordes of tourists and mischievous felines. A general rule of thumb in this labyrinth of curiosity is that you are never truly lost, just pleasantly displaced. You might veer off-course, but lo and behold, you could stumble upon an endearing family-run bakery that serves the best Rozata in town. And isn’t that the whole point of travel?
The city prides itself on its culinary delight – the Black Risotto, a local favourite made with cuttlefish ink. Bold eaters can venture further onto the Octopus Salad, a dish that binds the city together more than King’s Landing does to Game of Thrones fans. Eating it is like playing a game of Twister with your taste buds. The crunchy texture, paired with a squirt of citrusy zing, is a culinary roller-coaster ride that puts Space Mountain to shame.
Don’t miss Dubrovnik’s clothing-optional beaches, that is "if you dare to bare". Like a meticulously designed game of hide and seek, these offer secluded spots just beyond the city walls (you didn’t hear it from us!). When the city’s Battle of Waterloo- like summer heat gets intolerable, these spots make for a great escape. Do remember, though – the city loves its rules more than a high-school principal, so stick to the permitted areas and pack a good sun-block and a sense of humour to boot!