Our Family Journey to Croatia: Uncovering our Roots and Embracing our Heritage

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery in the heart of Europe

As a family, we've always been curious about our Croatian heritage. My great-grandparents left Croatia for America over a century ago, and while we've heard stories and passed down traditions, we knew there was so much more to discover about our ancestral home.

Running Away to Home: Our Family's Journey to Croatia in Search of Who We Are, Where We Came From, and What Really Matters

by Jennifer Wilson

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1237 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	333 pages

FREE

So, when the opportunity arose to embark on a family trip to Croatia, we jumped at the chance. Little did we know, this adventure would not only deepen our understanding of our past but also forge unforgettable memories and strengthen our family bond.

Tracing our Croatian roots to the idyllic island of Hvar

Our journey began on the sun-kissed island of Hvar. As we stepped onto the ferry, the crystal-clear waters and lush green hillsides captivated our senses. We knew we were in for a treat.

We spent several days exploring Hvar's charming towns and villages. We visited the ancient fortress town of Stari Grad, where we learned about the island's rich history and culture. We strolled through the bustling streets of Hvar Town, marveling at the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

But most importantly, we searched for traces of our family's past. We visited the local church and poured over old records, hoping to find clues about our ancestors. And to our delight, we stumbled upon a document that confirmed our great-grandparents' departure from the village of Gdinj.

Connecting with our Croatian heritage in the vibrant city of Split

Our next stop was the historic city of Split. We were immediately drawn to the imposing Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we explored the labyrinthine streets and hidden courtyards of the palace, we couldn't help but imagine our ancestors navigating these same paths centuries ago.

We also visited the nearby market, where we indulged in the vibrant flavors of Croatian cuisine. From fresh seafood to homemade pastries, our taste buds were tantalised at every turn.

Discovering the natural wonders of Plitvice Lakes National Park

No trip to Croatia would be complete without a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park. We spent a day hiking through the stunning forest trails, marveling at the cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes. The natural beauty of the park was simply breathtaking.

As we walked, we shared stories and reflections about our family history. We talked about the courage and resilience of our ancestors who left their home country to seek a better life in America. And we marveled at the resilience of our family bond, which had endured generations and countless miles.

Forging unforgettable memories in the picturesque town of Dubrovnik

Our final stop was the enchanting coastal town of Dubrovnik. We spent our days exploring the city's historic Old Town, admiring the impressive city walls, and taking in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

We also took a boat trip to the nearby island of Lokrum, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch at a secluded beach. It was the perfect setting to reflect on our journey and the unbreakable connection we now felt to Croatia and our heritage.

A journey that transformed our family

As we bid farewell to Croatia, we couldn't help but feel a sense of profound gratitude for the experience we had shared. Our journey had not only deepened our understanding of our past but also brought us closer together as a family.

We discovered that our Croatian heritage is not simply a matter of bloodlines or surnames. It's a living, breathing part of who we are. And through our travels and shared experiences, we've embraced this heritage with open hearts and a renewed sense of pride.

If you have any desire to connect with your own roots and forge unforgettable family memories, I highly recommend embarking on a journey like ours. It will be an experience that will stay with you long after you return home.

To learn more about our family's journey, please consider purchasing our book, "Our Family Journey to Croatia: In Search of Who We Are and Where We Came From".

The book is filled with stunning photographs, insightful anecdotes, and a wealth of information about Croatian history, culture, and travel. It's a testament to the power of family and the importance of embracing our heritage.

Thank you for taking the time to read about our journey. I hope you'll consider joining us on our next adventure.

Sincerely,

The [Insert Family Name] Family

Running Away to Home: Our Family's Journey to Croatia in Search of Who We Are, Where We Came From, and What Really Matters

by Jennifer Wilson

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1237 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	333 pages

FREE