dubrovnik – The Mindful Mermaid

5 Tourist Traps to Avoid in Croatia

July 16, 2017Alex Cote

(This article was originally published in Croatia Week Magazine.)

In a matter of a few years, Croatia has transformed from Europe’s hidden gem to Europe’s hottest holiday destination. With spotless beaches along the Adriatic, national parks full of waterfalls, and charming cobble-stoned cities, it’s unlikely that Croatia will fall off the radar anytime soon.

However, just like in any other popular destination, the rise in visitors is a ripe opportunity for some tourist traps to flourish. As an American who’s lived in Croatia for over a year, I’ve seen this first hand.

Here are 5 of the biggest tourist traps you’ll want to avoid for a more authentic Croatian holiday. Read more →

A Conscious Approach to Water (World Water Day)

March 22, 2017March 22, 2017Alex Cote

In the early 1990s, the United Nations established March 22 as World Water Day in an effort to bring awareness to global water issues. Over 20 years later, water is perhaps more sacred than ever.
The water crisis is the number one global risk, based on impact to society. 1 in 10 people in the world lack access to safe water. Oh, and update: Flint, Michigan is STILL included in that figure.

As an environmentalist mermaid myself, I’d like to encourage us all to think more critically about water. That’s why I’d like to use World Water Day as an opportunity to highlight these critical issues and what you can do to help. Read more →

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Dubrovnik

March 13, 2017March 17, 2017Alex Cote

Drum roll please… I’m about the drop the ultimate knowledge bomb full of insider travel tips to one of the world’s trendiest destinations: Dubrovnik, Croatia. Trust me when I say you won’t find these tips in any Lonely Planet Guide or one of the various “36 hour travel guides” on Pinterest.

Why? Because I didn’t just visit Dubrovnik; I lived there. I first came to study abroad, then fell in love, literally, with a local. I then returned to live for another 6 months. I’m one of the lucky few Americans that actually were immersed in the culture and Dubrovnik mentality.

No tourist traps. No sponsorships. Only my genuine tips (and a few of my boyfriend’s recommendations too) about a destination that turned into my second home:

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Dubrovnik During the Holidays

November 30, 2016January 15, 2017Alex Cote

While most associate Dubrovnik with the summer, the authentic spirit within the winter months cannot be found in peak tourism season. You won’t find the Old Town surrounded by cruise ships. You won’t find the Stradun congested with tourists and selfie sticks. You won’t be overwhelmed with restaurants and cafes at every corner. Instead you’ll be able to spot the actual Dubrovnik locals, sipping espresso with friends. The Stradun is now actually walkable, illuminated and draped with Christmas lights. It’s suddenly easier to feel the unique Dubrovnik energy, which is often lost in the masses. Read more →

Dubrovnik Diaries: Making Headlines and Exits

November 28, 2016January 15, 2017Alex Cote

When I first decided to return to Croatia after graduating this past summer, I had really no idea what was waiting for me. I knew I wanted to relax and spend time with my boyfriend while building my blog. I knew I wanted to further immerse myself in the local culture.

Several months later, I’m staring at myself on the cover of a Croatian magazine “American Blogger in Croatia”. This reminds me how far I’ve come, marking both the ending and a beginning of a new era. Read more →