After a hotel breakfast we headed back to the pool for a shooting session, while the National Team were put through their gym programme. Besides some of the players being in the actual gym, others worked through their excersises around the pool deck. After training we headed back to the hotel and then on to the Old City for lunch before a guided tour. Some of the boys then opted to head back to the hotel for a fun match in the sea pool in front of the hotel, while the others did the walk around the city walls. In the evening we headed for Cavtat, were we played in the harbour pool having divided the Hilton players into two teams. We then hung around in this picturesque town to have supper and explore a bit. It was then back to the hotel before setting off for the old city to experience the night life and get a vibe for the place. We used the bus system to get back to the hotel after a fun evening out.
Tuesday, 5 July 2011
Saturday 2 July
Friday 1 July
We were back on the bus today to complete our journey south to the 'Jewel of Europe', Dubrovnik city. On our way there we made a planned stop at Trogir to see its beautiful Cathedral, its old city and castle. Whilst only there for a short stop it was well worth the time we spent there and once again we were in awe of the innumerable ancient historical treasures Croatia has to offer to those who visit. On the way there we heard the exciting news that we were going to be training in the same complex as the Croatian National Team. We arrived in Dubrovnik and headed straight for the pool. We watched the initial part of their training which included doing man up before we continued with our own training. At the end of practice we were privileged to have a photo taken with their National players. We rushed back to the hotel for a late supper and a bit of free time to see our surrounds.
Friday, 1 July 2011
Thursday 30 June
An earlier start awaited us this morning. Today we headed for the port at Murter to catch an old-style sailing ship to the islands and national park of Kornati. We arrived in good time to make the voyage west. The weather was an unually overcast and the wind cool and refreshing in contrast to the blazing weather we experienced so far. Within 15min of the trip we had already hit the first drops of rain, however, it didn't detract from the reagle beauty of our surroundings. The dramatic vertical cliffs and azure blue water gave us the feeling of being in an ancient but majestical place. Our route took us to a tiny island where fresh braaied fish had been prepared for our lunch. Whilst not the preferred taste for the boys it was an authentic Croatian meal which they will remember for some time. Our next stop was another island well known for its 'beach' and swimming. The beach itself was only a sliver of sand but the water was beautifully clear. Having bought some cheap goggles we all went for a swim but were soon driven to shelter by a passing shower. The weather continued to improve and by the time we returned to port a whole day had been enjoyed exploring the Adriatic and a perfect evening was in store. We stayed in Murter for supper and took our time to browse through the markets for good deals on momentos and gifts.