FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

A History Lesson

by patty

Oct 8, 2011

Because I had the chance to visit Dubrovnik, Croatia, a few years ago, on this visit I decided to forgo visiting the Old City, climbing its enormous encircling walls and strolling its charming, medieval streets. Instead, I embarked on one of Holland America‘s “Cruise with Purpose” shore excursions entitled “A Silk Tale.” Our visit would help support a small organization which keeps the ancient and traditional craft of silk production alive in Croatia.

Experiencing the heat and humidity already present on this early morning as we stepped aboard our minibus (only 15 passengers took part on this excursion), and learning that the Old City would be crowded with visitors from 10 cruise ships in port that day, I decided I’d definitely made the right choice.

We traveled south along a winding coastal roadway for about half an hour, the lovely sea views rendered hazy by smoke from wildfires burning in the mountains just to the east across Croatia’s border with Bosnia. As we drove, our guide, Anna, gave us a brief history of the region and its prominence on the trade route between Asia and Venice and the rest of Europe from the Middle Ages on. She also gave us a picture of modern life here and also commented frankly on the Bosnian War.

Although that conflict began some 20 years ago with the break up of the former Yugoslav republic, it remains at the forefront of the people’s lives here. The ethnic strife between the Bosnians, Serbs and Croats was formally ended with NATO intervention and peace accords struck in 1995; but evidence of the fighting can still be seen in war-damaged homes in the region. (HIstoric Dubrovnik was restored by UNESCO funds, so most casual visitors there don’t see evidence of the war.) Anna spoke solemnly of her serious concerns about the deep divisions and mistrust that continue to exist between the three and what they bode for the future of her land.

Later, as we visited with the two ladies, each in her 70s, who run the silk-making operation we toured, the subject of the recent war came up again. They spoke of memories from their childhood of the German occupation of their homeland during World War II. Although there was partisan resistance against the Axis occupation locally, the ladies noted that the German and Italian forces did not retaliate against the citizens and maintained fairly good relations with them. Far more damage and death came about during the Bosnian War than they experienced in World War II.

While I enjoyed learning about traditional silk production on this visit (more on that, tomorrow), I valued even more this opportunity to hear the perspectives of those whose lives have been impacted by an event with which they continue to struggle daily yet which seems distant to most of the rest of the world.

— Patty Vanikiotis, associate editor/copy editor

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Nov 22, 2024

Choose Lompoc on California’s Central Coast for Outdoor-Focused Fun

If you’re in weather denial mode and resisting the urge to switch your closet over to sweaters and snow boots, keep summer going for a little longer in Lompoc, California.

Remarkable Medellín

Visiting Medellín in Colombia: The Country of Beauty is like stepping into a fantastic story — literally, as the city in the Western Colombian Andes region inspired Disney’s Encanto. Here, valleys, the world’s tallest palms, vibrant communities, colorful houses, garden-like balconies and more prove reality is more picturesque than anything on film. And it’s especially more tempting following Medellín’s remarkable transformation, shedding its troubled past and reawakening as a city of innovation, art, cultural richness, modern infrastructure, thriving tourism and resiliency.

Daily
Nov 22, 2024

Try This New Sea-to-Table Experience at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, the oceanfront property on the pristine coast of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, just launched a new Sea to Table program in partnership with SpearMex, the region’s premier sea exploration experts. The new programming features a hands-on experience and ocean-to-table culinary journey combining sustainable fishing practices with personalized gastronomic techniques lead by Executive Chef Jorge González.

Daily
Nov 22, 2024

Waldorf Astoria Residences New York Announces Partnership with Bang & Olufsen

Waldorf Astoria Residences New York recently announced a partnership with Bang & Olufsen. The contemporary residences sit atop the legendary hotel, currently nearing the end of its expansive restoration.

Extraordinary Egypt

ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME JOURNEY INTO THE ANCIENT WORLD OF THE PHARAOHS

Daily
Nov 21, 2024

Hotel Saint Augustine to Open in Houston’s Museum District Neighborhood

Hotel Saint Augustine, expected to softly open in Houston this December, is a design-savvy boutique hotel from Austin-based hospitality group Bunkhouse. The hotel will officially debut January 2025.

eFlyer Reviews
Nov 20, 2024

Château des Fleurs Review

Just a short block from the Champs Elysées, flower-bedecked window boxes grace the corner and clearly identify Château des Fleurs. This 37-room boutique hotel is one of Vivre-LMB’s five small hotels in Paris owned by Olivier Bertrand and his sisters and affiliated with Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet

Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.

eFlyer Deals
Nov 20, 2024

2 Miami Hotels Go Big for Black Friday, Cyber Monday

Two Miami hotels entice travelers this season to take advantage of some special offers. Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Autograph Collection, in the heart of Mid-Beach, offers up to 40 percent off the best available rate when booked by Dec. 30 for stays through Dec. 30, 2025. Book this offer.