Exploring Split, Croatia: From Sleepless Trains to Adriatic Dreams

Written by Katie Drew Jensen: A personal travel account during her travels to meet the team at the shipyard

Halfway through my month-long European adventure, I made a bold choice: a 17-hour night train from Budapest to Split. It seemed like an efficient, even romantic way to travel, although, in reality, it was a shock to the system. After two weeks of leisurely drifting through Europe’s rivers in an elegant stateroom, the sudden jolt into a cramped, dirty sleeper car with restless motion felt jarring. Adding to the mayhem, the cabin next to mine—packed with a group of young guys—partied through the night just as I was battling a relentless flu bug.

But I’m still unsure what was worse—the fever that had me shivering under my thin blanket or the enormous black bug waiting for me on my pillow. Was it glamorous? Not even close. Memorable? Absolutely.

Then, as dawn broke, the night’s discomfort melted away. Peeking out the window, I was greeted by a scene so breathtaking it felt like a reward for my perseverance: lush forests unfurled into view, and then, suddenly, the Adriatic Sea appeared—its sunlit waves stretching endlessly.

Spectacular views from the train coming into Split, Croatia

The tumult of the night faded into insignificance as the train snaked through a postcard-perfect landscape. A patchwork of children laughing near rustic brick and stone homes, their joy mingling with the scent of salt air. Beyond them, the city tumbled gracefully down the hillside, its terracotta rooftops glowing in the golden light, a vision so enchanting it felt like stepping into a postcard come to life.

Arriving in Croatia was a stark yet delightful shift from the serene days I had spent slowly cruising along the Danube and Rhine Rivers just days prior. The serene pace of gliding through Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Hungary—exploring castles, quaint villages, and bustling cities from the water—felt like another world compared to the vibrant streets of Split. Back on land, surrounded by the Mediterranean charm of Croatia, the experience was a refreshing shift, bursting with new energy and a different kind of beauty.

Walking through old Town, Split

The whistle blew just as I sneezed in perfect harmony and I scrambled to gather my belongings and heft my oversized suitcase into the bright morning sun. When I showed the taxi driver my address, his dismissive wave and a curt 'just walk' made me assume my hotel was a quick jaunt away. Spoiler: it wasn’t.  What began as a leisurely stroll quickly escalated into a sweaty, uphill odyssey, my oversized suitcase clunking dramatically over cobblestones.

By the time I arrived, I looked less like a glamorous traveler and more like a determined sherpa—but one glimpse of Villa Harmony and the struggle was worth it. Perched above Bačvice Beach, I was greeted with champagne, warm smiles, and the promise of a hot shower and a cozy bed, I was enveloped in pure bliss—an indulgent antidote to the stifling chaos of the train ride.

Villa Harmony overlooking Bačvice Beach, Split - photo credit Villa Harmony

The charming boutique hotel exceeded every expectation, radiating understated elegance with a touch of indulgence. As I stepped inside my room, my gaze was immediately drawn to an expansive deck that seemed to float effortlessly over the glistening sea. Instantly, I knew this was where I’d set up my office for the next few days—but first, I craved the luxury of washing away the remnants of the train journey.

It doesn’t feel like work with a view like this and great coffee

Emerging refreshed with my senses awakened, I wandered into Split's enchanting Old Town. The ancient grandeur of Diocletian's Palace embraced me, its storied walls a gateway to another era. The streets pulsed with energy, a chorus of foreign tongues harmonizing with the tantalizing aromas of local delicacies. My rumbling stomach reminded me it had been over 24 hours since my last meal, and I couldn’t resist the tempting scent of Fritule. These delightful little dough balls, paired with a rich espresso, were the perfect pick-me-up to fuel a day of exploration.

Stumbled on an incredible hidden gem of a bar while wandering through Old Town!

For the next day and a half, I fully embraced Split’s rich history and captivating beauty. The warm hospitality of the locals, perfect weather, and stunning architecture created a sensory feast. But my visit wasn’t solely about leisure—I was also there for work. As I wandered through Diocletian’s Palace, strolling the cobblestone streets and gazing out at the Adriatic, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible opportunities my role as the Executive VP of Operations at Storylines offers. Selling luxury residences at sea isn’t just a job; it’s an invitation to share the magic of exploring places like this with others. 

Finally meeting our Executive VP of Ship Operations, Dr. Paul Read at the shipyard

The following day, my connection to the work I do deepened as I visited the shipyard and finally met my team face-to-face after nearly four years of virtual collaboration. It wasn’t just a reunion with colleagues—it was a gathering that also included several residents who had flown in to tour the impressive facilities, igniting palpable excitement for what was ahead. 

The day culminated in a lavish feast by the marina, where colleagues and residents who already felt like old friends and I shared laughter, stories, and visions of our future lives living at sea. As the sunset shimmered across the water, bathed in golden hues, it was the perfect end to a day that reminded me why I love what I do—bringing people together to experience something extraordinary.

Left to right: Dr. Paul Read, Milan Friganovich, Katie, Heidi, Kathleen, and Roger

After nearly a month on the road, it was bittersweet to leave. Croatia, you’ve stolen my heart with your charm, your history, and your incredible people. I can’t wait to return—to breathe in the sea air, to wander the cobblestone streets again, and to create new memories in a place that already feels like home. Until next time, Split!