2015 Croatia Photography Tour

Travel Plan

Accommodations

Helpful Information

Explorer Testimonials

• 2015 Croatia Photography Tour Travel Plans

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Friday, May 8

  Depart US to Dubrovnik (DBV)

  Saturday, May 9 (D)

  After arriving in Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” and transferring to the hotel, the adventure begins!

  We’ll start off by exploring the old city during an evening photo shoot. Dubrovnik is perched on the Adriatic Sea and its prosperity was historically based on maritime trade. CNN Travel rated it as one of the top ten medieval walled cities in the world built in the 14th and 15th century. After the shoot shoot we’ll gather for our welcome dinner.

  We will stay two nights at the stylish boutique Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik. Location? Simply, ideal: a quiet street in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, just off the main Placa Stradun!

  Sunday, May 10 (B, D)

  Spend the day camera in hand, discovering Dubrovnik’s Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll explore its narrow streets, diverse architecture, street performers, and well-preserved medieval walls. Weather should be perfect this time of year with fewer travelers than later in the summer. Spring flowers will be blooming and grasses will be lush green.

  Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces, and fountains. The city is filled with old buildings, such as the Arboretum Trsteno, the oldest arboretum in the world, dating back to before 1492. Also, the third oldest European pharmacy is located in the city, which dates back to 1317 (and is the only one still in operation today). 

  We will have some free time for some sightseeing in the afternoon before meeting up for a late afternoon shoot. The medieval walls offer spectacular views of the city, sea, islands, and mountains, and we’ll use this vantage point to make the most of the light for some creative long exposures and blue hour shots. Overnight Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

  Monday, May 11 (B, L, D)

  Get up early to capture the sunrise over the Adriatic coast from a city vantage point before we depart for the island of Hvar, or spend a leisurely morning enjoying the hotel.

  We’ll take the scenic route along the coast and have many photo stops along the way. A short ferry ride brings us to the sunny island of Hvar, the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian Islands.

  We’ll spend the afternoon and evening shooting the dense Mediterranean nature and  rich architecture of this charming town.

  The four-star Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel is our home for two nights. Perched on the promenade and facing the old city centre, Adriana Hvarʼs most stylish boutique hotel boasts spectacular panoramic views of the town and the marina.

  Tuesday, May 12 (B, D)

  We begin the day with a panoramic sunrise shoot before setting off for the western part of the island. Today we’ll photograph some of the most scenic places on the island including vast lavender fields, ancient olive groves, and traditional Croatian villages.

  We’ll have some free time to explore, sunbathe and swim before meeting in the late afternoon to try our hand at creative seascapes and to experiment with long exposures. Overnight Hotel Adriana

  Wednesday, May 13 (B, D)

  After breakfast and another chance to capture early light in the old town, we leave Hvar and take the ferry to Split where we’ll have time for sightseeing, photography, and lunch before we continue to our destination: Plitvice Lakes National Park.

  The waters of Plitvice Lakes, flowing over the limestone and chalk have, over thousands of years, deposited travertine barriers. This created natural dams, which in turn, have created a series of beautiful lakes, caves, and waterfalls. The forests in the park are home to bears, wolves, and many rare bird species.

  We arrive in time for a late afternoon walk in the national park to photograph it’s beauty. Tonight we stay at Pension Plitvice Ethno House.

  Thursday, May 14 (B, L, D)

  Today is all about the lakes, waterfalls and caves in this incredible UNESCO World Heritage site.

  Here you’ll have the opportunity to try different photography techniques using tripods and long exposures as well as work on composition. Enjoy free time exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park alone before meeting late afternoon to make the most of the play of golden light and reflections in the water. Overnight Pension Plitvice Ethno House

  Friday, May 15 (B, D)

  After an optional sunrise shoot at the lakes and a hearty breakfast, we travel onwards to the Istrian coast. We’ll make some scenic stops on the way and arrive in the popular tourist resort and fishing port of Rovinj.

  Rovinj looks like it is being pulled out of the sea. It is the most Italian town in Croatia’s most Italian region, according to Rick Steves. He says, “Rovinj’s streets are delightfully twisty, its ancient houses are characteristically crumbling, and its harbor still hosts a real fishing industry.” After a sunset shoot in old town, we’ll overnight at Hotel Arupinum.

  Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17 (B, D)

  After catching the early morning light in Rovinj, we’ll drive to some of the many charming Istrian hilltop towns. We’ll see colorful old churches, vineyards and olive groves, and spectacular views of the entire region.

  Upon returning to Rovinj, we do another evening shoot and soak up the atmosphere of its bustling harbor, winding narrow streets and lively squares. Overnight Hotel Arupinum

  Monday, May 18 (B, D)

  After some early morning photography and free time to shop or explore, we depart Rovinj for the city of Zagreb.

  In Zagreb we can spend the early evening wandering and photographing street scenes and city architecture. Overnight at Esplanade Zagreb Luxury Hotel

  Tuesday, May 19 (B)

  We bid farewell to Zagreb and Croatia, and transfer to the airport. We suggest an afternoon flight so you can enjoy the Esplanade Zagreb to the very end! Arrive home today or May 20th.

  • Guest Limits

    Minimum 8 Guests
    Maximum 12 Guests

  • Trip Cost

    5760USD per person based on double occupancy

    Single Supplement: 990USD

  • Deposit

    $500 Per person due at time of booking
    Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover, or check accepted

    Deposits are non-refundable. If cancellations are necessary, we require this request in writing. We will do our best to resell your space. Only if we can resell your space, we will refund (minus deposit and discounts given to sell your space). No partial refunds are possible for unused services.

  • Installments

    November 1, 2014: $2500 First Installment
    March 1, 2015: Final Payment

    Check only for first installment and final payment. Please make check payable to Natural Exposures and mail to:

    Natural Exposures

    810 N. Wallace, Suite E

    Bozeman, MT 59715

  • Included

    • Accommodations for 10 nights
    • Meals & beverages (wine, beer, soft drinks) where indicated  (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
    • Entrance fess to all locations
    • Expert photography guidance by Daniel J. Cox
    • Local guide
    • Airport transfers on scheduled itinerary days

  • Not Included

    • International airfare
    • Airport transfers pre and post tour
    • Laundry, miscellaneous expenses, Internet charges, some beverages
    • Any attractions/activities not listed on itinerary
    • Travel insurance
    • Gratuities for guide/bus driver

  • Flights to Book

    May 8, 2015
    Depart U.S./Canada

    May 9, 2015
    Arrive in Dubrovnik (DBV)
    Welcome dinner this evening

    May 19, 2015
    Depart Zagreb (ZAG)
    Late day flight is recommended but optional

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance is not required for this photo tour, but we always recommend purchasing it for any trip. We recommend one or more of the following, depending on your needs:

    Global Rescue
    (use code natexp)

    Allianz Global Assistance 
    (use travel agency ID F203564)

    Insure My Trip

  • Terms & Conditions

    Natural Exposures cannot control nor is responsible for abnormal weather, natural disasters, or any other disaster that might affect the trip. Travel insurance should be purchased to cover any missed flights or medical problems that may affect/delay your travel. National Parks have the right to change our itinerary.

    By booking a trip with Natural Exposures, you agree to the following CANCELLATION AND LIABILITY POLICY

• Accommodations for 2015 Croatia Photography Tour

  May 9 and 10, 2 Nights
  Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
  Situated only meters from the Pile Gate, the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik hotel is ideally located for exploring Dubrovnik Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built over a century ago, this central Dubrovnik hotel offers comfortable facilities and technology in two buildings in a historic setting with stunning views over medieval Old town and the Adriatic Sea.

  May 11 and 12, 2 Nights
  Hotel Adriana Hvar
  Hotel Adriana Hvar is one of the finest Mediterranean hotels. This four-star hotel is situated just a few steps from the UNESCO world heritage Hvar Old Town. Perched on the promenade and facing the old city centre, Adriana Hvarʼs most stylish boutique hotel boasts the most spectacular panoramic views of the town and the marina. Adriana’s amenities are as diverse as its view – making it a perfect place for you to relax, renew, and rejoice. Adriana offers 50 deluxe guest rooms, 9 suites and spa specific suites, a year-round rooftop seawater swimming pool, Butchery&Wine restaurant, spectacular Top bar, lounge and multi-level garden terraces with stunning views over the sea and marina.

  May 13 and 14, 2 Nights
  Pension Plitvice Ethno House
  Pension Plitvice Ethno House is a newly created group of buildings in traditional style Plitvicki. Located in the heart of Plitvice Lakes National Park, the hotel features include air conditioning, private outdoor pool, sun terraces for sunbathing, sauna, and quick access to relaxing walks in the park. Be sure to try the house specialties in their restaurant facilities – the premier plum and the cottage cheese from 100% organic production!

  May 15-17, 3 Nights
  Hotel Arupinum
  The new hotel Arupinum is located at the edge of the Park Forest “Zlatni rt,” a favorite destination of many recreationists, sportsmen, and nature lovers. The hotel’s location is ideal for long walks through the park and situated near the beautiful beach.

  May 18, 2015
  Esplanade Zagreb Luxury Hotel
  Opened in 1925 as a refuge for passengers from the Orient Express, Esplanade Zagreb Luxury Hotel offers glamor, style, and tradition, receiving many awards for service, cuisine, interior design, and bar tending. Features include Zinfandel’s, a restaurant among the top 101 in the world, fitness center, massage and beauty salon for pampering and relaxation and is located within easy reach of key attractions such as the Cathedral and the Art Pavilion.

   

• Helpful Information for 2015 Croatia Photography Tour

  As many of you know, we try to combine photography and vacation. The price for this trip includes a few boutique hotels and beverages with meals indicated (wine, beer, soft drinks). You may also want to consider arriving earlier in the day and a later departure when booking your flights to spend some extra time enjoying the hotels.

  We’ll have early morning and evening photo shoots to catch the best light. Many shoots will be optional for those who do not want to participate or have spouses who are not interested in photography as much and want to relax. If we’re staying at a hotel for multiple nights, you’ll have options of exploring with the group or on your own. We try to be flexible. After all, this is your vacation!

  Weather should be beautiful this time of year, and we have planned to beat the summer heat and crowds. We tried to work the schedule around non-cruise days in the areas. Spring flowers will be in bloom and grass will be lush and green. These details can add value to your trip!

  ACTIVITY LEVEL

  As in many European cities, there will be cobblestone paths and stairwells, with some paths going uphill. There will be a moderate amount of outdoor walking and activity on this tour, so we ask all guests to prepare before the trip.

  VISAS/PASSPORTS

  Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure, and it is strongly suggested by the embassy to make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Two blank pages in your passport are required for entry stamps. No visa is needed for stays under 90 days.

  VACCINATIONS

  No vaccinations are required to enter Croatia.

  GEOGRAPHY

  Croatia is in southeastern Europe, with the Adriatic Sea to the west, Slovenia to the northwest, Hungary to the north, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the southeast, Serbia to the east, and Montenegro to the south. Croatia is about the same size as the state of Michigan.

  CURRENCY

  Croatia’s currency is the Kuna. Although many tourist businesses may accept euros, they are not legal tender in Croatia.

  VAT/TAX REFUND

  Global Blue tax free shopping is available in Croatia. Look for stores with the Global Blue Tax Free signage information in the window. Visit Global Blue Croatia Tax Free Shopping for additional information on forms needed and restrictions. Minimum goods purchase amount is 740,00 HRK (kuna), approximately $132. VAT/tax refund can be done at the airport when departing or once you get home.

  ELECTRICITY

  220 Volt, plugs are two round prongs. Plug adaptors will be sufficient for most laptops, cellphone chargers, and digital cameras. A voltage converter/transformer would be needed for appliances such as a hair dryer or electric shaver.

  

  Have a question?

  Have a question about this tour? We're happy to answer any queries you may have.

  • Your Name*
    First Last
  • Email Address*
  • What is your question?*

  Δ

• Testimonials from Natural Exposures' Explorers

  • "If you ever want to travel to another country and you want to go first class, travel with Natural Exposures. They are number one in showing their guests the best time ever in the classiest way. I would recommend Natural Exposures Tours to everyone. If you want to go in style, go with NE!"

    Michelle Duggan, Massachusetts

  • "Tanya and Dan’s logistic skills provide a seamless photo tour where one can truly enjoy the experience. With unlimited photographic opportunities Dan’s instruction has taken my photography to a higher level."

    Linda Henry, Oregon

  • "What a trip
    What a group
    What a fabulous everything
    To our next encounters with nature"

    Maud and Leon Soriano, Florida

  • "I just wanted to again thank you for a wonderful week of photography and relaxation away from the office. It was a really a good group."

    Sue Wolfe, Texas

Are you ready to start your next adventure?