This was our first big trip as a family of three. Sure, we had crossed that Atlantic twice before but once we arrived at our destination, we were fairly stationary. We'd stay mostly at our families' homes, eat our meals there and have lots of hands to help when we needed it. This was going to be much different. We'd have 10 days of constant travel. Jasper would be out and about with us for most of the day and sleeping in different spots as we went. We knew this was going to be a big challenge for him (and us!) and because of that, our travel planning was a bit more relaxed. We wanted to be careful not to over schedule nor spread ourselves, especially Jasper, too thin.
The trip was a complete success and it reinforced our hope that travel with a baby is completely possible. In fact, I might even venture to say that Croatia was the perfect place to take an infant. The Croats love babies! I couldn't tell you how many times servers would ask to hold Jasper while we ate dinner. Certainly, they were wanting us to enjoy our meal but they genuinely seemed to want to interact with our son too. People on the streets and other patrons of cafes would make all sorts of faces at Jasper hoping for a smile. Keys would be jingled, tongues clicked and baby talk whispered. Jasper loved all the attention and was fascinated by all of the new faces.
The country itself - stunning. That crystal clear water of the most brilliant hues, the mountains plunging into the sea, vineyards and orange trees and ancient walled fortresses - one couldn't ask for a better landscape. We stuck to the Dalmatia region visiting Split, Zadar, Plitvice Lakes, Dubrovnik and the island of Korčula but I can almost guarantee we'll be back to explore more. Croatia, you were lovely and this trip will hold a special place in our hearts as the home of our first family vacation.
Split
Zadar
Plitvice Lakes
Somewhere along the A1
Korčula
Dubrovnik
Aww. I'm so glad it was such a smashing success! There's so much talk out there about having babies and "kissing travel goodbye", but after seeing your account and those of other young families, I just feel so determined that it can work. Looking forward to hearing more about your trip... all of these photos are just gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteThere were certainly some challenges but totally feasible and worth it!
DeleteThanks Cynthia :)
So thrilled to hear it went well, you've given me inspiration!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure Joaquin will be an excellent traveller as well :)
DeleteLooks so beautiful, so glad you had an amazing trip! Can't wait to see more about Croatia.
ReplyDeleteThanks Casey! It has me itching to plan the next trip!
DeleteI'm so glad to hear it went well! Your photos look amazing, like something you'd see in a travel brochure. We don't have any major travel planned for the near future, but I'd love to hear what you learned about traveling with a young one. Did he just nap in an ergo or pram? Did you take a break at the hotel every day?
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking of putting a post together - stay tuned :-)
DeleteOh your little one is gorgeous! I've only been to Zagreb before, but I absolutely loved it and visiting the coast has been on my bucket list for ages!
ReplyDelete