Split, Croatia

Split is the largest Dalmatian city, and second largest in Croatia.  The city is a link to the numerous surrounding Adriatic islands.  It is one of the oldest cities around 1,700 years old.

We tendered into shore and wandered thru the Diocletian’s Palace and the old castle markets.  Being a Saturday the markets were packed with locals and  they spilled over into every alley and square.  The fresh food markets had some fabulous looking fruit and veges but the meat stalls looked a bit iffy – pigeons just land on stuff.  The seafood open-air market was particularly smelly so we didn’t linger for long.  It was pleasant to walk thru local markets and not just the tourist stuff, although there was a lot of that as well.

We wandered up and down alleys for a couple of hours checking out the real old tiny alleyways and the apartments and houses.  They are of the same design as those in Dubrovnik.  We stopped at a café on the waterfront which was a very happening place.  Lots of young people strolling around, masses of young backpackers and a demonstration against toxic waste.  We have really taken to this café society of sitting in the street watching the world go by. Being able to do that with the magnificent views in these old cities is just magical.

Time to go back to the ship as there is a football game on and we have to pack the bags.

Dreading the packing and the long trip home but after 6 weeks its time to find our way home.