A Guide to Dubrovnik

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Dubrovnik is best known by some as the Pearl of the Adriatic, and best known by others as King's Landing. This southern Croatian city sits on the cliffs of the Adriatic Sea in the region of Dalmatia. And while the city holds much to explore and many fascinating locals to meet, it is perhaps most famous for its medieval Old Town. This area is encircled with massive stone walls dating back to the 16th century. The streets are paved with ancient limestone and are lined with shops offering handmade crafts and restaurants serving up fresh seafood.

You can comfortably spend a weekend in Dubrovnik (as I did), but you could easily spend a week or two here as well if you're in the mood to relax on beaches, take a few sunset sails, and relax before venturing off to see more of Croatia - Zagreb and Split are beautiful destinations to check out next.

Croatia has a rich and resilient history, as they declared their independence from Yugoslavia in the '90s. Because of this, the country is still rebuilding, but quickly becoming one of the most popular travel destinations.

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Roundup: Best Travel Apps

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Traveling in the digital age of smart phones and the Internet has never been easier. Excursions, flights and hotel bookings, languages... all at the touch of our fingertips.

There is, of course, something to be said for not relying on technology when traveling. It can be good to disconnect for a bit. Sometimes we get so caught up in sharing a moment with everyone that we forget to experience it ourselves while we live it. Don't be so glued to taking pictures while you travel that you forget to take something in with your mind and soul as well.

Still, that doesn't mean that technology can't be a blessing when traveling. Mobile apps have made booking and enjoying vacations that much simpler by condensing our resources into one spot.

Here's a roundup of some of the best apps for traveling. Any travel need you have - there's an app for that!

Tips to Feel Like a Local Wherever You Go

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Don't be a tourist.

While tourism isn't necessarily a bad thing, those who have little respect for local customs or simply see the sights without delving into the culture can be. Don't be a tourist. Instead, be a traveler. Welcome the opportunity to experience a new culture and meet new people with open arms. Understand their traditions and respect their customs. And importantly, live there. Whether you are there for a day, a week, or a month, try to experience each destination not just from a foreigner's perspective, but from a local's. Having this attitude can lead to a rewarding and unexpected journey.

Some tips for feeling like a local anywhere you travel -

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Girl Meets Ireland

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Ha'Penny Bridge

Upon graduating college, I found myself in possession of a month with nothing to do and a desire to do something a little crazy before becoming a 'real adult'. I had originally planned to move to Chicago directly following graduation, but with a month delay before I could start work, it felt like the universe was giving me a chance to go on an adventure.

So like any rational person, I found a cheap flight, a couple of girl friends, and booked a trip to Ireland.

The emerald isle. This was a land I had dreamed of seeing since I was a little girl. The lush rolling greens of the moor, dotted with sheep and cattle and Celtic castles. The pubs full of dancing Irishmen, with their rough brogues cheering whiskey while clapping along to the fiddle that played traditional drinking songs. The beastly cliffs towering over the Atlantic, both wielding a significant beauty and danger in their presence. This was a land of magic.

Our week in Ireland, though short, held more adventures than I could have imagined, and I can't wait to soon return to the isle of whiskey and love to make more memories.

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