Freedom on Wheels and an Outing to Baška Voda

John made a trip to Rome to pick up a car, and it feels like freedom. We drove down the coast to a little gem of a town called Baška Voda yesterday. We arrived as the rain from a downpour was running from the streets and dripping from the huge planetrees; clouds were making way for the sun. On the waterfront, a promenade with shaded benches faces a marina of boats, loved and well kept. The beaches stretch both directions, with clear blue water gently washing the edge.

Homes climb the hillside up to the main road, and the massive mountain provides a backdrop behind them. Everything about the place is loved. The beach had no plastic cups and bottles floating in the water or half buried orange grocery store bags. The walkways and benches were tended, with no sections missing or hazards, a stroller or bicycle would easily navigate them. Cars drove slowly, giving a peaceful air.

After strolling up the beach and making a stop for the girls in a trinket shop, we sat in a café called Papagaj. The sun had returned forcefully, driving us into the deep shade at their tables. We enjoyed our drinks and wondered at this place. We might have stayed in a place such as this, but our search for an apartment had a few requirements. Internet, for us and for the children to attend school online. And easy access without a car, eliminating any place a car was recommended or necessary. Both were the first qualifiers, narrowing our choices. That, and our tante landlord gave us a great price for a very roomy place.

We’ve spent almost a month here in Croatia, hunkered down finishing business we did not have time to wrap up before leaving, and catching up on schoolwork. Now, we have freedom on wheels. We can drive wherever we would like. After yesterday’s outing, we understand why so many people have told us how lovely this Dalmatian coastline is. Now we explore.