When you have visited a port before, what to do the next time?

Maybe you know the feeling. You have been lucky enough to call at a beautiful Mediterranean port more than once, and it shows up again on a new itinerary. Do you eliminate the cruise because of that? No! You find new things to do.

We did this recently aboard Silversea, in Ibiza, Mallorca and Lisbon.

Ibiza: Always an enjoyable stroll in this walled town with fun boutiques and open air restaurants, but this beautiful day, we yearned for a great beach, and so we walked around the harbor to the ticketing office for the ferries that go regularly to the 4th Balearic Island of Formentera. We were just in time, as a high speed boat was departing in 10 minutes.We felt safe doing this, as our ship did not depart Ibiza until 10:00pm. I would not recommend you try this with a ship departure before 7pm.
Formentera is just an hour away by hydrofoil  and just above sea level, surrounded by amazing white beaches. Some beaches are walkable in good shoes, bikes are for rent at the port or, as we were four, we took a taxi to Playa de las Salines, about 15 minutes away. Renting 2 umbrellas, we stretched out  on a beautiful white sand crescent and swam for hours in the clear turquoise water. Added to the entertainment were the occasional nude sunbather and topless young and old. After beers at the local beach bar, where patrons sat in swimsuits and gold sandals to long lunches and plenty of wine, we had the bar call us a cab to catch the 4pm ferry back to Ibiza. A great day and memory!

The beach at Formentera

Ibiza at night from the ship.

Mallorca:One of my favorite islands in the world. But after two spring breaks spent there, and at least 4 visits to the port of Palma, we were looking for a special and low key afternoon with our friends Gerry and Maruta. After heading into the capital, we negotiated a  4 hour rate with a cab driver and headed out of town to the northwest. The highway gets you to the beautiful countryside fast, then you go through Valdemossa and on to the stunning cliffside environs of Deia, a fairytale place with stone villas (royal family members + Michael Douglas have homes here) and on to one of my favorite hotels  in Spain, La Residencia. The lobby features old photos of Mick Jagger, Liz Taylor and other past guests who have sought an exclusive but unpretentious getaway. Rooms are scattered around in various buildings, and  decorated in white fabrics or florals with exposed timbers. The beautiful indigenous carmel stonework is  inside and out, and shuttered french doors keep the hot sun out and bring in the cool evening air. Pools are scattered around among the palms and verdant foliage. The beach is a walk or shuttle below the cliffs. Sitting outside, with a light and delicious lunch of a perfectly dressed salad nicoise and glass of dry white wine made on the island, is a perfect afternoon. Service is unobtrusive, warm and efficient. After this lovely experience, we head back to the bustle of the great Cathedral of Palma and wander the streets of the old town. I love Mallorca. It is worth a week or two.

Lisbon: Such and interesting city with it's monumental plazas, many hills and unique neighborhoods perched above the Tagus River. But after several visits there, we decided to venture to the medieval walled town of Obidos some 90 mins. north. Here life remains much the same as in past centuries, with ramparts, whitewashed buildings, tile roofs, but with the addition of of many galleries and artisan shops. It would make a memorable night stop in a driving tour of Northern Portugal. And the place to stay is the beautifully restored Pousada de Obidos.

The Pousada

Creating lace in a time honored tradition.

Visiting Chewton Glen in the New Forest, UK

Chewton Glen www.chewtonglen.com

Who knew? Who knew there was such a place as the New Forest in the southwest of England. Where William the Conquerer in 1079, set aside these 200 sq. miles as his personal hunting grounds.

It is still there. And also there, and well provided for, are over 3000 wild  ponies, small villages with wonderful histories, and to offer you a home away from home, is Chewton Glen.

Set in the middle of nowhere, but in fact just 35 minutes from the cruise ship dock at Southampton, and walking distance from the coast, is this remarkable, rambling brick country house on 136 acres. A maze of delightful and unique rooms and suites (only 58) are bookended by serene sitting rooms, beautiful pools, all manner of sports facilities, grand spa and superb dining. Take a croquet lesson from a master of croquet! Or take a cooking class, explore their organic gardens and learn about the new and impressive wine areas of England

As an unexpected addition, the owners have recently constructed ¼ mile away,in a quiet glade, uber modern safari like villas on stilts called the tree houses  with multiple bedrooms, private decks, top of the line kitchens, hot tubs and complete privacy. Popular among the celebrity circuit, they offer a most un –English type experience, but with all the amenities that this most English country house offers. 

What is there to do other than tennis, croquet, spa and swimming? There are wonderful villages to explore such as Beaulieu, where you must tour the estate of the Montagues with it's superb guide, Maureen Broughton. Hiking the trails, and horse riding nearby, will also fill your days.

Great for families or for an adult getaway, or for a country house experience prior to or following the ship docking on the southern coast. The staff from sommelier to the  very personable GM, Mr. Andrew Stembridge, will ensure you have a perfect stay!

A cozy spot to read the morning paper.

Spectacular baths at the exotic tree houses.

Clivedon, UK-Living the Upstairs Downstairs Life!

Clivedon House  www.clivedonhouse.com

This spring I had a great opportunity to see 2 iconic country hotels in the UK, thanks to Ellen Freschauf of Select Resorts and Hotels and the hospitality of the hotels' management team.

Just 30 mins. from Heathrow Airport, nestled in 376 acres of formal gardens above the Thames, lies the magnificent Clivedon House, former country home of Lord and Lady Astor. Built first in 1666 and after various fires and disasters, re-built finally once again, in the mid-1800s, it will take you back to the Britain of many glories and famed tradition. 

The main house is flanked by two wings, which have been completely renovated creating lovely rooms and grand suites.

The central part of the building houses a cozy living room with grand fireplace imported from France by Lord Astor himself, as well as an even cozier library and 2 beautiful dining rooms with views opening out to the glorious gardens.

Service was warm and professional. There is only a small desk at the entry to complete a painless check in, and then it is on to tea and crumpets and cookies in front of the fire, while your room is prepared for you.

Cocktails are taken in the library before indulging in the best of new British cuisine, paired with an expansive wine list, amid crisp linens, cozy banquettes, and fresh flowers.

Bed linens are superb as well, and what can be better than having two gentlemen in starched white shirts, black vests and trousers, come knocking at your door at 9am, with silver salvers and china dishes full of breakfast goodies, to set up for you in front of your fireplace. Oh to be among the gentry!

A close second is a leisurely walk among the formal gardens and hedgerows, a treatment at the spa, or best of all, hiring a vintage cabin cruiser with Capt. Steve, to pick you up at the riverbank below, and pilot you down the Thames to the charming town of Bray, home of three Michelin starred restaurants. Mist rising over the river, manicured lawns, homes of the 1% along the banks, and on the aft deck cushions, champagne flows and savory sandwiches  are yours to enjoy!

This is the perfect break in your trip onward to Europe or on your return, or simply as a long weekend before heading into the mad crush that is London. Any time of year! 

Clivedon is a Signature preferred hotel which offers our clients a  full breakfast  daily and food credit, when booked through our office.

The magnificent Clivedon House.

On the river Thames, which lies below the house.

Lady Astor's Suite

A typical room in the newly renovated wing.

Why Take A Trans Atlantic Cruise

Why Take a Trans Atlantic Cruise

I get this question a lot, as we will be taking our fourth this fall from Barcelona

to Miami aboard the beautiful intimate (270 suites) all inclusive Silver Spirit.

First, there are usually some interesting stops prior to the crossing. In this case, we will explore the great ports of

Barcelona, Cartagena, Valencia and Malaga in Spain. Then we will make a day stop in charming Funchal, Madeira.

After lots of touring for 5 or 6 days, we will kick back and enjoy the ship as she crosses the Atlantic, usually in beautiful weather in the fall.

This part of the trip is not unlike spending a week at a resort except: There are 375 staff to take care of every whim, there are 5 restaurants to try,

all your beverages and gratuities are included, and when you tire of watching the sea from your cozy outdoor sofa or lounger (which I never do) or swimming in the pool, there are lectures to attend, cooking classes to take, and all other manner of activities to enjoy if you wish.

Usually I try to get into an exercise program (the facility will never be closer!) and learn something new from the guest lecturers on board, but I have to admit that many of these days are spent reading, writing, and stretching out on our private veranda or on the back of the ship, mesmerized by the great expanse of water. 

Toward the end we will have a day to explore the island of Bermuda, and then on to Florida, where we hop on a quick 5 hour flight to home. AND-no jet lag, as you gain an hour each night of the crossing. Painless.

So what does it cost for 15 nights of relaxation and travel in  your suite, with butler, delicious dining, unlimited champagnes, wines, cocktails and all gratuities?

Well this year, it is about $4000 pp. Air is under $1000. What are you waiting for? It is the best of all worlds.

Arriving in the early morning Funchal

Setting up for dinner at the hot stone grill above the pool.

How we spend our late afternoons at sea

Some of Silversea's Finest: Hotel Director Gianni
and Maitre'd Jorge Caeiro

Rancho La Puerta

An Annual Week at Rancho la Puerta.

Most women have a week at a spa on their bucket list.The Golden Door, Ashram,Canyon Ranch are well known and prestigious. But for a truly wonderful spa experience, luxe but not fussy, in a beautiful setting, you cannot do better than the oldest spa in North America, Rancho la Puerta. Just 8 miles south of the border and 30 miles inland, set in the low mountains of Baja, lies this spectacular 3000 acre respite from the stress of real life. Founded 73 years ago by a Hungarian professor, it offers today a lush landscape dotted with brick and stucco casitas that surround organically designed gyms,studios, pools, spas and the gracious  2 story dining building, with its tile roof, rustic, traditional interior and  massive fireplace. All guests take their meals here and enjoy the delicious organic , primarily vegetarian fare which also features fresh fish most evenings.

In between meals, your day can be as full or empty of classes as you wish. There is no pressure to accomplish anything except whatever pleases you! Most women I know, were  only pressured by how many new activities they wanted to try and how to fit them into their week.

Cardio, kick boxing, circuit training, Pilates, yoga, tai chi,spinning, tennis, water aerobics and weight classes are just a fraction of what is on offer. In addition, there are hikes for every level, cooking classes, water shiatsu (Watsu) meditation classes, cranial sacral therapy and more. Not interested in working out? Join the bird watching walks, read in a hammock under the trees, try crystal bowl healing or your hand at sculpture and water colors. Take a Spanish class, attend a concert or lecture on nutrition, dreams, or relationships given by an ever changing roster of experts from around the USA. And of course, take time for a few spa treatments such as a loofah scrub, hot oil hair treatment or Swedish massage.

Who will you be around? If you come with our great group from Seattle on Jan. 17th 2015, ( our 4th year!), you will have a built in group of instant friends. If you go a different week, you will likely find 85 per cent women ages 35-75, no celebrities or prima donnas, but many interesting, well educated and successful women, who happen to be interested in meeting other women. One feels at home quickly, which is enhanced by the ranch creating a special welcome program for new guests.

The cost? Quite reasonable compared to other spas and all the elements that are included. A full week in your own casita with private patio, all classes and all meals, transfers from and to San Diego airport can be had for as low as $2800. Share a room with a pal, or perhaps a daughter or sister, and the price goes down. Accommodations range from cozy cottages called rancheras up  to lovely casitas that feature 2 bedrooms, kitchen, living room with fireplaces that are set twice daily with aromatic piñon wood. These are perfect for a group of 4 or two couples.

The staff will charm you, the cuisine delight, the instructors are so welcoming and perhaps most importantly, the classes are never intimidating. On the final night, a local Malbec wine is served at dinner, and the Mexican band plays your music, and you will feel like a real dancing queen!

Our group is already looking forward to next January. Make plans to visit the ranch, book through me and enjoy exclusive pricing on some weeks, or at least the lowest offered, plus a 50 minute spa treatment on me! See you at the Ranch!

Panama Today

Panama Today

More cruises are starting in Panama, so the question is, is it a viable destination itself?  As more travelers try Belize, Costa Rica and even Nicaragua's only luxury resor,t Mukal,can Panama be far behind as a destination?

I spent some time there last fall checking out the Buenaventura coastal resort and the capital city. First, the climate is more humid and tropical than countries further north. This means winter months are best, for less rainfall. The city is a work in progress, with evidence of international investments everywhere, as illustrated by the impressive skyline and numerous cranes. What I loved was the ongoing  renovation  of the 17th century old town on a peninsula jutting out from the downtown. Beautiful colonial buildings that had been taken over by squatters for decades, were decayed badly, when the government offered the owners a choice to renovate or lose the building to the government. What you see now, are lovely pastel 2 and 3 story tiled roofed, balconied buildings, lining newly brick paved lanes. Even the Presidents residence is here. Shops, galleries and wine bars are sprouting, and I imagine in another year or two, this will become the primary attraction for visitors.

We stayed at the boutique Bristol hotel which has just had an Ian Schrager  type  restyling, in shades of grey, ivory and metallics. I loved the decor and the rooms are very generou,s set off by dark hardwood accents and huge bathrooms. Service is not up to Europe, but we must remind ourselves this city is on Latin time. The famous restaurant Sol el Puedes, is a major attraction for the city's elite, as evidenced by the 70 or 80 new SUVs and BMWs  that pulled up for an event one night, disgorging glamorous couples dressed to the hilt.

2 hrs from the city, lies a resort development with a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, riding stables, hundreds of glamorous Mediterranean style homes facing a long stretch of Pacific beach.At the center lies the JW Marriott Buenaventura. With just over 100 elegantly appointed rooms, spectacular pools, 3 restaurants, it is the most upscale Panamanian resort, and attracts the upper crust for holidays and long weekends. This resort is close to being exceptional, because of its luxurious  accommodations and facilities. What is lacking is maintenance and nightlife. But this is a resort community to watch, especially when the new airport is built, eliminating the 3 hour drive from Panama.

10 Days Aboard Ponant's Le Boreal

10 Days Aboard Ponant's Le Boreal 

We were ready for something different, and this new luxury expedition ship owned by Ponant, a French line, seemed just the thing. Averaging 200 guests, it meets our preferred size. Very contemporary in design, casual in dress, zodiacs on board for exotic island stops, and French food-what's not to love! Also for the American market, all inclusive of wines, cocktails, and gratuities. The staff is a mix of French, Mauritian and Indonesian. The guest mix on board this particular cruise was 140 French vs. 8 Americans! Yes, it was like French immersion school, and that is not for everyone. But the crew was very accommodating, and we were happy to  be part of this very Gallic experience. And in all fairness, we are told that in Europe it is more of a 40/60 split. Our suggestion, cruise with your own group of friends.

Perhaps the best reason to consider this vessel, other than the lovely staterooms, open bridge policy and scrumptious baked goods, are the remarkable destinations from Antarctica to the Arctic. Even the more traditional itineraries such as Colon to Lima, which we did, offered some unusual ports, such as a day swimming at one of the impossibly beautiful San Blas islands, and an unscheduled morning swim stop in the Las Perlas islands off the Pacific side of Panama. Having a young captain on board with a certain amount of authority to divert his vessel, was a pleasant change. In fact he referred to it often as our yacht! This is a cruise line to consider for the adventure and style it offers. And when you get home your French will be much improved!

The Augustine Hotel Prague

View at dawn from an upper floor room at The Augustine

The professional Mr. Lubos, our maitre'd.

The very elegant and cozy bar.

Returned to Prague and Budapest recently and chose one of our preferred properties for the corporate incentive group we escorted. The Augustine is a former monastery comprising of 7 buildings dating from the 13th century, and now offering 101 luxury rooms. It is a beautiful example of retaining historical ambiance and architectural detail, while adding modern day luxuries like heated floors and linen sheets. The location is delightful, just  5-10 mins walk to the Charles Bridge and just below Prague castle.

Lobby and public spaces have a contemporary vibe and the courtyard that sheltered monks in past centuries, now is dotted with lovely sofas, greenery and an outdoor dining venue. But on cold afternoons, nothing beats the cozy and luxurious bar with it's high windows and ceilings and delicious light bar menu.

The lower level houses a small but lovely spa and the original brewery, (the monks still produce a scrumptious beer), which now is a fun and atmospheric pub in the evenings.

And one more comment. Mr. Lubos the low key and completely competent maitre'd , is not only great to work with, but the first  in my experience, to absolutely refuse a well deserved gratuity. How impressive. The staff over all was anxious to please. Enjoy some lovely extras here when you book through me.

Hotel Report Barcelona

In June we renewed our impressions of this exciting port city in Spain. Checked out four of our preferred properties, two of which are quite new to this city's central area. The Mandarin Oriental on the main artery of Passeig de Gracia is an exercise on 21st century modernism. Soaring spaces, mostly white and minimal. A unique terraced garden in the rear has all sorts of privates nooks among lime colored plantings, with wicker seating arrangements, ivory umbrellas, but alas no pool.Great location, MO service and all you might want in a well designed room.

The El Palace is the former Ritz (not the Ritz Carlton Arts) and has been redone top to bottom in a very opulent manner. Spectacular decor, quite staid in feeling, particularly the formal restaurant. But a back garden and more casual green house restaurant gives one an option. definitely grand but intimate.
For those who prefer to save some Euros but want a good location, comfortable rooms and a friendly and very accommodating staff, the Claris on Pau Claris is a good choice. Eclectic in decor (modern to ancient Egyptian) with a rooftop pool, and walking distance to Passeig de Gracia and Sagrada Familia, we found our clients to be well satisfied at a rate of under E200 including a sumptuous buffet breakfast.

Sheelagh and Maruta strolling the Passeig de Gracia

  Rooftop pool at the Claris. 

The central atrium of the Claris Hotel . An Egyptian museum is on the premises.

Rear garden at the Mandarin Oriental

Casual dining at the El Palace. 

Down the street is the Majestic, a long time player with traditional interior but a jumping scene at the rooftop pool bar. I have had mixed reviews on staff here, but that aside worth consideration for location and a grand feeling.

The amazing unfinished edifice of Gaudi's Sagrada Familia

Review of the new Seabourn Quest

I spent a short break on the new Seabourn ship, sister ship to  Odyssey inaugurated last year. It was far too short! What a beautiful ship! 480 guests maximum allow this ship to call in the small harbors around the world, for which Seabourn is famous. Innovative public spaces. Light filled corridors, exceptional and spacious suites for all, and a variety of excellent dining options. Fun pre dinner bar at the Observation lounge far forward, with a lovely selection of Mediterranean appetizers to munch on with our drinks. Interesting forward outdoor sun deck, and fabulous back deck with sofas off the unique public area that encompasses the admin areas, as well as internet cafe, bar, coffee house, library. Very cool. *****

Paris Walks and a favorite place to dine in the Middle of the Seine

Le Tastevin

Returned for a few days to this most beautiful of cities, staying in the Marais district this time, a little more authentic and neighborhood- like than the central districts.Yes- the students were rioting but we just stayed clear of some monuments and no problem. One new experience I have heard of for years but not tried, were the Paris Walks. Owned by Peter Caine and his wife Oriel, they are a delightful series of tours by foot for whomever shows up. Their schedule can be found at  http://www.paris-walks.com/index.html. We were fortunate to have Peter for our guide in the Marais, and it was a lovely experience with great historical stories at every stop-for only 12 euros pp, to be paid on the spot. Check it out.
Paris is not Paris for us, without dinner at the same little restaurant we have enjoyed for 27 years on the Rue Saint Louis-en-l'Ile. Warm, cozy on that special island in the middle of the Seine, Le Tastevin is proudly looked over by Madame Annick Puisieux, and she, the setting and cuisine never fail to charm.Open daily for dinner, and also a wonderful lunch spot on a rainy Sat. afternoon. Tell her I sent you.Tel. 43-54-17-31.

Over the bridge to the I'le St. Louis

Grand Hotel Timeo, Sicily

Can you stay in one of the most beautiful hotels in Italy for E360 a night?Yes! And also receive full breakfast daily and a magical lunch for two at the restaurant above, when you book through me. That memorable lunch on the terrace, was just what we enjoyed in October at the restored Grand Hotel Timeo, perched above Taormina, Sicily.An infusion of investment funds from Orient Express Hotels, has resulted in a fresh but traditional look for this iconic property. There is simply not a more beautiful setting ( although the Hotel Caruso in Ravello comes close) in an often overlooked destination. Taormina is all about a riot of flowers, charm and beauty, Italian tradition, ancient monuments (the hotel shares a wall with the Greek amphitheater from 300 BC) and incomparable views.Make a detour on your next trip to Italia. After all, D.H. Lawrence loved it!

Chartering a Gulet in Turkey

Typical bedroom aboard a luxury gulet.

Dawn on the Turquoise Coast-waking on your yacht to the smell of Turkish Coffee!

Marmaris harbor: masts at the right are several gulets we toured.

Imagine dining with friends or family after an afternoon of swimming and exploring.

Gulet: Definition: A gulet  is a traditional design of a two-masted wooden sailing vessel from the south-west coast of  Turkey. 
A number of clients have expressed an interest in sailing the famed Turquoise Coast. I too, have had a yearning to be under canvas on those aqua waters, one day. But my biggest worry has been the uncertainty about the crew that comes with the boat. So when the opportunity to tour 5 of the top gulets in Marmaris, Turkey presented itself last month, I was all over it and  able to get many of my questions answered by our charter contact there. Prices are all over the board depending on the month, size of vessel, number of crew and level of amenities. We toured  gulets that retail for Euro 9,000-E 35,000 a week. Take into consideration that the higher figure includes six deluxe bedrooms with private baths and a crew of 8. When you divide this by 12 you are at a  reasonable rate of about $4000 a week pp. all inclusive ( even wi-fi) for your private yacht charter. At the other end of the spectrum, we saw a still charming vessel suitable for  a family of 6-8, for E 9000 in low season-October or April. It's your call where you wish to go-north or south, islands or coastline harbors, but everywhere, turquoise water, ancient ruins, sun beds on topdeck and that wonderful Turkish cuisine making the best use of fresh fish and vegetables. The clients who accompanied me on the tour are ready to book for 2012. Combined with a week in Istanbul and perhaps Cappadochia, or ending with a Greek Island stay, what could be a more memorable vacation?

The New Library of Alexandria, Egypt

Exterior Roof line of the Library

Interior Reading Room

A must for any fan of great architecture, the new Library of Alexandria is a fitting replacement of the famous ancient wonder. For 2 centuries before Christ, it was the repository of the world's knowledge. Burned to the ground in 48 AD ( or so most think), it has taken almost 2 millennium to replace, and what a structure it is, designed by  a Norwegian and Egyptian team.
A mix of galleries, museum exhibits, planetarium, research centers  and over 1 million books,  it hosts 1.5 million visitors each year. Check out it's internet archives at:

http://www.architectureweek.com/cgi-bin/wlk?http://www.bibalex.gov.eg

So the next time you are in Alexandria, put this monument to the past and the future, on your list of sightseeing. Tours in many languages given daily.

An Athens Night Stop

So many cruises start or end in Athens, that I thought I would investigate the idea of staying outside of that often overheated and hectic city. We chose our Signature preferred property in the seaside suburb of Vougliameni: the Westin Astir Palace. Located about 35 mins from the airport, it is part of a gated resort that also includes the Arion Resort. The Westin has been fully renovated and cascades down the slope from the reception floor, to the beach below, which affords every room  a very large terrace and a spectacular view of the sea.  The exception is the lowest floor which trades out the view for a patio overlooking the garden or pool. 
Jetlagged, we found ourselves delighted to spend the rest of the day at the beautiful and very large pool area, but even more lovely, was the easy access to the sea with a small private beach and safe enclosed bay ideal for kids, or by diving in from stone balustrades by the pool deck.
The room itself was almost entirely white, large, spare and with an  expansive marble bath, and a wonderful bed with delicious linens.
Two options for dining both quite expensive, but many restaurants in Vougliameni, a 15-20 min walk from the hotel, or by taxi. Breakfast however, is an included amenity and was one of the best we have enjoyed, offering a tremendous array of items and also dishes cooked to order. The view was an added bonus.

After You Have Done Dubrovnik

Many Mediterranean cruises call in the lovely Croatian walled town of Dubrovnik, and certainly it is deserving of more than one visit. But if like us, you find yourselves on a 4th or 5th  cruise with this port, you may wish to go beyond the honey colored walls, on your own. We did just that in April, and discovered the charming seaside resort of Cavtat.
Located only    miles down the coast, it delighted us with it's turquoise water,pine clad hills, steep pedestrian streets and waterfront cafes.We could understand why the Duke and Duchess of Windsor chose it for their honeymoon so long ago.There are two ways to reach Cavtat-by sea or via coastal highway. Upon reaching the tender station at Dubrovnik's entrance we walked to the right side of the harbor where there are numerous boat excursion desks.We were there in April, so the schedules were infrequent and we elected instead to go by public bus.We walked the Stradun through town to the Pile Gate exited and turned to our left. Just beyond the Nautica Restaurant on the left is a tourist info booth who directed us to the bus station a steep 15 min walk further up the hill.You will need exact change for the #10 and the fare is 12 Kuna-about $2.50.

The ride along the coast highway is breathtaking and takes about 20 mins. to the end of the line in Cavtat which sits on a hill with a bay on either side. Go around to the bay you cannot see on the other side of the bus terminal. There you will find a lovely line of cafes and a boardwalk-perfect for lunch. After traversing the old part of the town, you will be ready to hop on the Adriana Boat that has a open air desk for reservations, and pulls right up to the shore. There were only 4 of us on a sleek vessel that seats about 20, and it was delightful speeding  back up the coast, right by our beautiful ship and into the same small harbor the ship's tenders use. All in all a perfect day.Made even better by arriving back with an hour to spare, and walking the tranquil streets of Dubrovnik after the crowds had left.