Escape to Paradise: Stunning Apartment Near Split's Historic Center!
Escape to Paradise: Split, Spills, and Spectacular Views (A Messy Review)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn’t your average, dry-as-dust hotel review. This is the truth. We recently stayed at the “Escape to Paradise: Stunning Apartment Near Split's Historic Center,” and let me tell you, it was… an experience. One I'm still unpacking, both literally and figuratively.
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First Impressions (and a mini-meltdown):
The apartment was stunning, I have to admit. The pictures? Not lying. The view? Off the flipping charts. But getting there? That was a journey. Remember, I'm rating this based on everything, folks. Okay, so the check-in process, listed as "Contactless check-in/out" and "Check-in/out [private]," was mostly smooth. Except when the app glitched and I couldn’t find the damn key code. Had to call. Twice. Minor hiccup, but already, the "paradise" angle was getting a little chipped.
Accessibility - Not Quite a Stairway to Heaven (but getting there…):
Listen, the listing boasts "Facilities for disabled guests" and the description mentions "Elevator." HUGE plus. But! And here’s the messy part: while the apartment itself seemed fine (more on that later), the initial approach… let's just say it wasn't exactly wheelchair-accessible friendly. The parking situation (a "Car park [on-site], Car park [free of charge]" situation) was a bit of a scramble. Finding a level surface to unload was a minor victory. The elevator did its duty, though, and that, friends, is a win. So while it's not entirely perfect and requires some maneuvering, they're trying.
Cleanliness and Safety - Seriously Impressed (Especially After the Key Code Drama):
Okay, this is where they nailed it. "Anti-viral cleaning products," "Daily disinfection in common areas," "Rooms sanitized between stays," "Hot water linen and laundry washing," "Hand sanitizer" at every turn… the list goes on and on. I’ve got to say, in these times, I felt genuinely safe. They even had "Room sanitization opt-out available," though let's be honest, I was not opting out. The "Staff trained in safety protocol" was evident. Big, big points for making us feel secure. Also, "First aid kit" and "Doctor/nurse on call." Peace of mind, people. Peace of mind.
Rooms with a View…and Everything Else:
Okay, let’s get down to brass tacks. The apartment itself was a modern, stylish dream. "Non-smoking rooms," "Air conditioning," "Free Wi-Fi" (Hallelujah! "Wi-Fi [free]"), "Blackout curtains" (my salvation), "Closet," "Mini bar" (hello, after-sunset refreshment!). The "Coffee/tea maker" was my best friend. The "Extra long bed"? Glorious. "Hair dryer," "Bathrobes," "Slippers" – they thought of everything! The "Satellite/cable channels" kept me entertained during those moments of pure relaxation. The "Seating area" was perfect for sipping wine and gazing at the… oh, I'm getting ahead of myself.
But here's my one REAL gripe: the "Kitchen and tableware items" were… sparse. I mean, come on! I paid for an apartment, not a dorm room. A couple more utensils, maybe? Grumble, grumble. Anyway… moving on…
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - A Mixed Bag:
Now, this is where things get interesting. While the apartment itself didn't offer "Breakfast in room" (minor disappointment), they did have a kitchenette. So, we stocked up on supplies nearby. "Restaurants" and "Coffee shop" are right outside. The place is close to the "Bar," "Snack bar," and the "Poolside bar." I almost had a happy hour. Almost.
"Pool with View" - The Reason I Booked This Place (and the Reason I'll Return):
Okay. Here it is. The pool. The piece de resistance. The reason I booked this whole damn thing. The "Swimming pool [outdoor]." And the view… you guys, the view was ridiculous. It was the kind of view that makes you forget your worries, makes you forgive the key code drama, makes you consider selling everything and moving to Split permanently. Lounging by that pool, sipping a cocktail, with the shimmering Adriatic Sea stretched out before me… that was pure, unadulterated bliss. Days were spent swimming, sunbathing and taking pictures, the only way to make it better could only be a pool-side drink, which they provided at any hour. Perfection. And the "Poolside bar" was… well, let's just say a few happy hours were involved.
Things to Do/Ways to Relax - A (Mostly) Relaxing Experience:
Apart from the pool, I enjoyed "Massage" and "Spa" facilities. I didn't try the "Body scrub" or "Body wrap," though, because honestly, I was too busy relaxing. I did investigate the "Sauna," but I'm not a sauna person. There is also the "Fitness center" (did not visit), but for me, the best physical activity was a relaxing walk. Plus "Daily housekeeping" meant I never had to worry about cleaning up after my messy self. Amazing.
The apartment is supposedly close to the historic center of Split, which is an advantage. But let's be brutally honest here. The "Things to do" are basically just wandering the city, drinking coffee, and people-watching. And you know what? That was perfect.
Services and Conveniences - More Than Expected:
"Concierge," "Doorman," and "Daily housekeeping" were fantastic. "Luggage storage" was a lifesaver. The "Laundry service" came in handy (because, vacation). "Air conditioning in public area" was vital during those scorching Croatian afternoons. Getting Around - A Bit Tricky (But Worth It):
Parking, as mentioned, was a bit of a puzzle. "Airport transfer," thank goodness, was arranged. "Taxi service" was readily available if you don't want to risk it with public transportation.
For the Kids - Family-Friendly Vibes:
I had no small humanoids with me, but I saw other travelers with them. Apparently there is "Babysitting service." So the place is "Family/child friendly."
The Quirks, The Quibbles, and the Overall Vibe:
Okay, let’s be real. This place isn't perfect. The key code fiasco, the slightly-lacking kitchen equipment, the occasional parking headache… these minor inconveniences almost got me. But the view, the pool, the overall feeling of safety and a wonderful location - it was a genuinely special experience. "Escape to Paradise" is a little bit hyperbolic, but if you are looking for an apartment with a wonderful view, fantastic location, and a damn good pool… it's a pretty darn good escape. The small imperfections give it character, or so I tell myself. You have to realize that perfection is over-rated. Emotional Rating:
Overall? 4.5 Stars. Lowered slightly for the initial small issues, but those views, that pool, and that security? Absolutely magical. I'd go back in a heartbeat. And I'd probably bring more coffee. And maybe a few extra spoons. You've been warned.
Auberville, France: Chic Apartment w/ Microwave - Book Your Dream Stay!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your meticulously planned, Pinterest-perfect itinerary. This is my Split, Croatia, escape, warts and all. We're talking raw emotion, questionable decisions, and the kind of travel diary that probably shouldn't be shared publicly… but here we are! Remember, I'm staying in an apartment 3km outside the historical centre. Freedom baby!
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Grocery Store Gamble
- 10:00 AM (ish) - Arrival at Split Airport (SPU): Ugh, the flight. Let's be honest, flying is a necessary evil. The turbulence was so bad I swear the old lady next to me almost choked on her tiny airplane sandwich. Finally, breathe… we're in Croatia! Grabbed a Bolt to the apartment. I'm already regretting trying to navigate public transport… (more on that later).
- 11:00 AM - Apartment, Check-in, and Interior Design Anxiety: First impressions? The apartment is… functional. Clean-ish. The air conditioning works, which is a godsend. The decor? Let's just say it screams "rental". I spent a good 10 minutes wondering if that framed picture was actually a photograph of a painting… or just a really, really bad print of a painting. Regardless, unpacked the basics – you know, the survival essentials: sunscreen, my favourite book, and a bottle of wine.
- 12:00 PM - The Great Grocery Hunt: Okay, time for the real adventure. Finding a grocery store! Armed with Google Maps and a healthy dose of optimism, I wandered out. My Croatian language skills extend to "Hvala" (thank you) and "Pivo" (beer). Let's hope that covers me. Got absolutely LOST, ended up at a huge supermarket, which was a relief. Successfully navigated the meat counter (pointing furiously), grabbed some cheese that smelled… interesting… and emerged victorious, laden with provisions. I'm pretty sure I bought a whole watermelon. Regrets? Zero.
- 2:00 PM - Late Lunch and Balcony Bliss: Slicing that watermelon was a moment of pure joy! Sat on the balcony with my lunch, soaking up the sun and the sounds. Birds chirping, neighbours chatting, and the distant rumble of traffic. Suddenly, feel such a strong feeling of joy. Pure bliss. I think… I think I’m actually relaxing.
- 4:00 PM - The Problem of Pre-Dinner Drinks I opened the wine. Now I'm debating whether to stay in the apartment or try to seek out a beach bar. Procrastination is setting in, and so is the red wine!
Day 2: The Diocletian's Palace Daydream
- 9:00 AM - Attempted Public Transport and the Road to Ruin: Okay, so I was all gung-ho about public transport. Big mistake. The bus routes seemed to have a mind of their own. Ended up on the wrong bus, then on the right bus, then completely turned around… I think I passed the same olive tree four times. Eventually, I admitted defeat and flagged down a taxi. Note to self: Learn to say "Diocletian's Palace, please!" in Croatian.
- 10:00 AM - Diocletian's Palace - A Grand Delusion of Romance: Wow. Just… wow. This place is incredible. Wandering through the cellars, imagining Roman emperors strolling through the same streets, the sheer weight of history. I spent ages in the Peristyle, gazing at the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. (and trying to avoid tourists, which is not very easy). It's genuinely impressive, but here’s something you don’t see in the brochures: the hordes of selfie-stick-wielding tourists. It kind of takes away from the magic when you're constantly dodging outstretched arms. I swear I saw one guy trip over a paving stone while filming himself. Comedy gold!
- 12:00 PM - Lunch and the Case of the Overpriced Pizza: Found a little trattoria tucked away in a side street. The food was supposed to be "authentic Croatian cuisine", and it was… fine. But the prices! Highway robbery, I tell you! A pizza the size of a frisbee and a small bottle of water cost more than my taxi ride. Lesson learned: RESEARCH RESTAURANTS, YOU FOOL!
- 2:00 PM - A Missed Dip in the Sea: I wanted the beach! I really did. But the heat was intense, and crowds were larger. Plus, I'm slightly terrified of jellyfish (I blame a childhood trauma). So, instead, I retreated to the apartment, vowing to try again tomorrow.
- 4:00 PM - Afternoon Nap and Cultural Guilt: The heat got to me. I absolutely collapsed on the bed and slept for two glorious hours. Woke up feeling refreshed (and a little guilty about not sightseeing). But, hey, I'm on holiday right?
- 6:00 PM - Dinner and That Pesky Pesky Problem: Headed out, determined to discover more local flavors. Found a little restaurant (with reasonable prices this time!). Ordered some grilled fish, which was delicious. However, i just realised I forgot about the jellyfish and my fear. I'm thinking about it right now. I think I'll skip the beach tomorrow too. Maybe.
Day 3: Exploring the Marjan Hill and the Olive Tree Incident
- 10:00 AM - Marjan Hill Hike (Attempt #1): Heard about the incredible views from Marjan Hill. Decided to hike up. My fitness app suggests I've ascended Mount Everest in the past hour. I am covered in sweat, and the panoramic views are worth the price of admission.
- 11:00 AM - The Great Olive Tree Incident: Okay, here's where things get interesting. Reached a small grove of olive trees. Was taking pictures when I stumbled… I think I actually hugged one of the trees, trying to stop myself from falling. Scraped up my knee. Lost my sunglasses in the process. Embarrassing? You bet. Worth it? Well, the view was stunning.
- 12:00 PM - Beach Attempt #2: I braved the beach! Mostly, I avoided eye contact with the water. The sun, the sea…it's all so lovely.
- 2:00 PM - The Unexpected Gelato Adventure: Decided to reward myself for my hiking bravery (and for not being eaten by a jellyfish). Found a fantastic gelato shop. Went for the pistachio… twice. Absolute heaven. Zero regrets.
- 4:00 PM - Wine, Writing, and Regret: Back at the apartment. Sipping wine, editing these notes, and realizing I've barely scratched the surface of Split. Thinking about what I missed… maybe I should have been more adventurous. Maybe I shouldn't have spent so much time napping. Oh well.
- 6:00 PM - Stroll and the Midnight Pizza: Ended the day with another meal. Then, it's time to seek out a pizza. Hopefully, the price will be more reasonable this time.
Day 4: Departure - The Emotional Rollercoaster
- 9:00 AM - Last Breakfast, and the Emotional Hangover: Had breakfast on the balcony. The sun feels different now. I won't lie; I feel a profound sadness that this trip is over. This is what it feels like when a holiday comes to an end, isn't it?
- 10:00 AM - Packing, and the Questionable Souvenir: Packing up. Seriously considered buying that framed picture. Am I really going to take that cheap, touristy souvenir?
- 11:00 AM - Airport, and the Last Look: The journey to the airport somehow seems slower this time.
- 12:00 PM - The Final Farewell, and the Promise to Return: This trip felt more real than I expected. I saw the sights, yes, but I also messed up, and learned. It wasn’t perfect, but it was mine. And you know what? I think I’ll be back. Maybe I'll even learn some more Croatian. Maybe I'll face my fear of jellyfish. Maybe I'll actually plan things better. But one thing's for sure, I’ll remember this trip.
Escape to Paradise: The (Unfiltered) FAQ - Because Let's Be Real...
Okay, the listing says "Stunning Apartment Near Split's Historic Center." Is it *really* stunning, or just... not a total dump? Because my last Airbnb was, let's just say, "rustic."
Alright, buckle up, because I'm gonna be brutally honest. "Stunning" is subjective, right? My initial reaction? Yeah, it's pretty damn good. Way better than the "rustic" (read: cockroach-adjacent) experience I had in Rome last year. The pictures? They don't lie, thank God. The thing is CLEAN. Like, actually clean. Which is a HUGE win in my book after lugging my suitcase up that million stairs in the first place. There's marble, a decent kitchen with a coffee machine (essential for this caffeine fiend), and a balcony with a view... well, a *partial* view of something beautiful. I wouldn't call it *stunning* stunning. More like, "Oh wow, this is actually quite lovely, and I can relax for once." And for the price? Totally worth it. Don’t expect a palace, but expect a seriously comfortable base of operations.
How close *is* "near" the historic center? I hate walking for miles after a long day of sightseeing.
Okay, this is where things get a little... *subjective*. "Near" is relative to your definition of "lazy." I'm generally pretty lazy, so I considered it *perfectly* placed. Seriously, maybe a 5-10 minute walk to the Diocletian's Palace. And trust me, after stuffing yourself with burek and gelato all day, a little walk is gonna feel pretty good. You'll be past the Riva in no time. No need to take a bus. You can stumble back after too many cocktails! It’s *convenient*, which is the best word I can use. My feet were crying by the end of the trip (all that running away from pigeons!), but it had nothing to do with the location. Plus, it's far enough away from the super-touristy madness to feel like you're actually living there, not just visiting. It’s a happy medium, a Goldilocks zone of location. Just don’t wear high heels! (Yes, I learned that the hard way.)
What about the kitchen? Can you actually *cook* in it, or is it just for show? Because I’m not trying to eat out every single meal.
The kitchen... ah, the kitchen! Okay, so it’s not a gourmet chef's paradise. You're not going to be filming a cooking show episode in there. But it's definitely functional. I managed to make pasta with pesto (a travel staple), scrambled eggs, and even a sad attempt at pancakes one morning. It had all the basic equipment – pots, pans, a (slightly wonky) frying pan, cutlery. The hob worked, the fridge kept things cold, and there was a kettle for my tea addiction. They had even provided salt and pepper! Bonus points for that! It's perfect for quick breakfasts, lunches, or a simple dinner after a long day. Don't expect to roast a whole chicken (unless you're *really* patient), but it's better than relying on takeout every single night. Just remember to check the inventory for missing items before you start cooking! I'm still not sure what happened to the bottle opener...
Is there air conditioning? Because Croatia in the summer... yeah.
YES! Thank God. Air conditioning. Essential. Do not underestimate the power of the Croatian sun. It's brutal. The air conditioning worked perfectly, blasted cold air that saved me from melting into a puddle of tourist sweat. I might have even cranked it up a *little* too much a few times. (Sorry, environment! But it was *hot*!) I honestly would have left without it. It was literally the number one factor when selecting an apartment.
What's the Wi-Fi like? I like to stay connected (and watch Netflix when I'm being lazy).
The Wi-Fi was… *decent*. Look, it wasn't the lightning-fast internet I have at home (thanks, Elon), but it was reliable enough for browsing, emails, and even streaming Netflix. (Priorities, people, priorities!) Sometimes it would slow down a bit, especially during peak hours when I was trying to download about 10 episodes of RuPaul's Drag Race, but it's nothing compared to the absolute dial-up speeds I’ve dealt with in the past. It definitely held up, though, I do recommend downloading your must-have binges before you leave the airport, because even the most reliable Wi-Fi hiccups sometimes. So, yeah, you can stay connected. But don't expect to host a live video conference with your entire family. Unless you want to spend your holidays looking totally embarrassed!
Is it noisy at night? I can’t sleep with a lot of noise.
Okay, this one is a bit of a mixed bag, but let's be honest. Croatia is buzzing with life! The historic center is a busy place. There are often people strolling about until late. Yes, there are sounds. You’re going to hear some activity. You will hear music drifting across from some bars. You will hear people talking. You will hear maybe even a couple of motorbikes. But I didn't find it overwhelming. The apartment is a couple of blocks away from the main action, which helps, trust me. Closing the windows helps even more. If you're a light sleeper, maybe bring some earplugs. Or even a white noise machine. Either that, or drink enough wine and you’ll sleep through a rock concert. (That might have been my strategy...). You'll get used to it. That’s how it goes, I suppose.
Anything else I should know? Any hidden catches, dealbreakers, or random quirks?
Okay, buckle up because here’s the real talk, the unvarnished truth: The building itself is old. It’s charming, sure, like a grizzled old sea dog, but it has its quirks. The staircase? Narrow. The climb? Well, if you have mobility issues or you're bringing an enormous suitcase, consider a taxi to drop you near the building. Otherwise, embrace the cardio! You’ll be thankful for the leg workout after all the ice cream. There was a slight issue with the shower drain, but honestly, nothing that bothered me. The balcony, though, was pure magic! It overlooked a charming little square. Now, the little thing about getting there… is to walk around. (You will learn to do that). One time, I accidentally went too far and ended up face-to-face with a very grumpy cat guarding a back alley. But that's part of the adventure, right? Just be prepared for a little bit of character. And maybe bring some bug spray. Those mosquito things are sneaky! Honestly, despite all this, I'd stay there again in a heartbeat. It was comfortable, great location, and the little balconyHotel Search Site
