April 24 – 30, 2011
Before going to Opatija, I added more maps to my blog. There are now 2 sources of Maps of Croatia available from my Blog: the Map Page on this Blog and the Maps of Croatia photo album at https://picasaweb.google.com/100390625521976559356/MapsOfCroatia?authkey=Gv1sRgCMKy69HMr_bjvQE#
This photo album has relief maps, land use, economic activity and natural resources, population density, and a map of Croatia's location in central Europe.
I had these maps on the Map page but couldn't get them to enlarge and it was impossible to see the details on the maps. So now they're in my photo album and the details on the maps can actually be seen!
But, the maps on the Map page can be enlarged by clicking on them.
Confused…then I’ve accomplished my mission!
Now, on to Opatija! Steve has a few seminars to give and I get to take some photos of him in action before heading out on my own to see what is called the Austrian Riviera because Opatija was a favorite holiday destination for 19th century Austrians and still is today. I’ve got the best “job” ever!
The statue, Girl With A Seagull, by sculptor Zvonko Car represents Opatija to the world and has been standing since 1956 on a rock above the sea.
The statue, Girl With A Seagull, by sculptor Zvonko Car represents Opatija to the world and has been standing since 1956 on a rock above the sea.
On the way to Opatija we decided to drive over the mountain instead of going through the tunnel. What fabulous views! But not for those who are afraid of heights…
Opatija is full of Austrian style villas. The architecture is stunning. Unfortunately, not all villas have been maintained and it’s sad to see such once beautiful structures fall into ruin. Even some of the hotels for the rich and famous haven’t survived the ravages of time. But, the Adriatric Sea is also stunning here! The Austrians built a 12 Kilometer long Promenade along the coast that is still in use today. I was able to walk about half of it when Steve was working and it was thoroughly enjoyable. I loved the sound of the sea as it hit the rocks and the shore, and looking at all the fancy yachts and fishing boats and water taxis.
Click on the video link below to hear the Adriatic Sea along the Promenade in Opatija, Croatia.
Click on the video link below to hear the Adriatic Sea along the Promenade in Opatija, Croatia.
The thermal water sources, fresh sea breezes and mild climate made Opatija a popular tourist destination in the 19th century when travel was seen as a health-improving activity which took people away from smoky cities and provided them with a dose of fresh sea air. Many of the hotels still have spa treatments available today.
We stayed at a modern hotel our first night in Opatija and it was very nice. Our second night we stayed at the historic Hotel Imperial. When this hotel was built in 1885, only Royalty could stay here. Carved wooden ceilings and crystal chandeliers still adorn the ballroom, dining room, salons and lounges. The rooms have very high ceilings and the draperies and furniture are reminiscent of the 19th century. Most surprising of all, it had a better shower than the newer hotel!
The story of our return trip to Pula is on “A Little Humor” Page. Yes, we had another one of “those” road trips!!!
Check out my photos of Opatija at https://picasaweb.google.com/100390625521976559356/Opatija#
No comments:
Post a Comment