The flight was essentially routinely uncomfortable, though three layovers was a greater struggle. Odd part was landing in Zagreb from Frankfurt, deplaning, going through a thorough security search, then customs, then getting back on the same plane. At least it reduced my fears that my bag would be lost.

Picked up a Dubrovnik airport, which sits on a plateau. We had an excellent view of Dubrovnik during the approach. I was picked up and as we drove to the hotel, the driver learned that another tour member had arrived early on my flight. So back we went. Not a big deal.

Visited the hotel bar, where the bartender kept offering standard types of French wine. I persisted in a request for some Croatian wine. He found an open bottle of something. Marvelous! Dingac. Turns out it’s the highest rated grape in Croatian, meaning it’s all downhill from there. Hope not. Only $10.

Leader gave two of us a little tour, mostly to point out the supermarket. But we entered the Old Town area for a little taste of tomorrow’s tour. It looks very interesting.

Our welcome dinner was fine. Discovered my travel mates are extremely outgoing and talkative. Clearly everyone is dying to share travel stories with like-minded people. It’s been a long time.