The creative director of sun-protective resortwear brand Parasol
dishes her insider tips on Croatia’s coastal charm.
Croatia is…
A city of unexpected beauty mixed with Old World European charm
First-time visitors must see…
Dubrovnik. It’s a beautiful port city that was destroyed during the recent war and has since been restored. The main street in Old Town Dubrovnik has the most beautiful cobblestones, smoothed down from years of people walking on them.
And must pack…
Bathing suits, sundresses and caftans. It’s warm and casual.
Summer sun safety essentials…
Parasol sun shirts, Eric Javits UPF hats and visors, Blinde sunglasses, Jan Marini sunblock.
Favorite day adventure…
A long paddleboard in Mljet National Park. The water is so calm you can go for miles. I love taking quick dips in the water to cool down.
Favorite after-dark adventure…
Midnight swims off the boat under the moonlight
Secret only a local would know…
If you’re looking for ice cream made fresh every day, visit the old city of Dubrovnik. There are lots of different spots to try, and none disappoint. Also, if you’re looking for a gift that everyone will love, especially little children, get a personalized ceramic boat made by a local artist in Hvar. I got one for my nephew Nick, and he’s obsessed with it.
Favorite local food of choice…
Long, corkscrew-shaped fried potatoes served on a stick with special Croatian spices
Songs on my vacation playlist…
Sweater Weather — The Neighbourhood
Madness — Muse
I Should Live in Salt — The National
Mirrors — Justin Timberlake
Get Lucky — Daft Punk
Reckoner — Radiohead
Book on my nightstand…
Eleven Days by Lea Carpenter
