As we are using backpacks, and this trip is serving as a mini test for my leg and foot – (can I walk a distance with an 18 pound pack) – we were making the 45 minute trek to our digs. It was along a city street. I had just remarked how the feel had the tenor of some parts of the Caminho. Then I spotted a sticker we saw all along our hike in Portugal: J’EXISTE. I exist. I was here. The exact same sticker. Same person? “J’existe” – leaving a mark, yes, but such an anonymous one.
Dubrovnik is a wonder. The town of storybooks and legend. Some of Game of Thrones was filmed here. I’ve not watched it so that means nothing to me. I simply felt as though I’d wandered into another time. We’ve been to fortressed, walled medieval towns, but nothing this grand, of this scale. Only a few photos can begin to describe the scope of what a walled city of the 9th century was like.
This is a great time of year to be here. The hordes of tourists are gone – though there are still plenty – but it’s not the congested molasses throng of July and August. Especially if you get to the wall shortly after it opens. And while the sun spreads its warmth, there’s a coolness to the air that makes for a quite comfortable time.
In 1438 the leaders decided to bring water to the city from a spring 12 I’m away. Part of the water supply system is the Big Onofrio Fountain. 16 sided with a carved mask on each side from which potable water flows.
Don’t groan, but I’m going to post another meal. Lunch at Tavulin in old town Dubrovnik. For a prix fixe of 120 Kuna, about $17.00 I had tender grilled squid with potato salad with sundried tomatoes and a fresh green salad, bread and a very rich brownie with sabayon sauce, caramel, and Chantilly cream. Wine not included, but the local Proçip is delicious!
That’s it for Dubrovnik. Went to a beach, but didn’t get a photo. Oh, and our studio apartment was great! Roomy, well outfitted kitchen (not that we used it), and a host, Jelena, who brought us espresso and a bakery item each morning. In the next photo, you’ll see the white umbrella on our garden terrace.
Shared Illusions 
Great description. We liked Dubrovnik, too, and walked the entire wall— it was December. There were still tourists then, too, but not totally overrunning it all. We are testing our strength, too, in our walks in San Francisco and now in Vancouver. I think age is catching up with us, not helped by the slowdown during the pandemic.
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We have been putting on the miles! Between 8-12 daily if we’re not on the train. Yesterday was a 12 mile day, plus I swam. Today we ride to Zagreb – a 7 hour journey with lots of stops – the milk run – as Charlie says. But we arrive around 1500, so there’s time yet today for some walking!
And you are in Vancouver! Wonderful city. If you have a chance, check out the Dark Restaurant. Staffed by blind people, the restaurant is completely dark. An interesting and challenging experience!
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This has GOT to be the most beautiful trip you have ever taken!!!
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There have been some eye-popping wonders! So much beauty in the world!
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