Zagreb

 

As our trip draws to a close, and with Zagreb primarily serving as our departure point, we've decided to take it easy and enjoy a relaxed pace.

To get a feel for the city, we opted for a walking tour—a great way to explore even a small slice of Zagreb. Fortunately, our guide was incredibly entertaining, keeping both us and the kids engaged and amused throughout. Our first stop was the cathedral, which, according to our guide, has been perpetually under repair for all of his 32 years. We then passed the "Bloody Bridge," which is now just a regular street, and made our way up to the hill to witness the cannon being fired at noon. The cannon's loud boom marked the moment, followed by a wave from the man in the window, a round of applause, and the brief show was over.

From there, we strolled to a square that hosts both the church, known for being the venue for most weddings, and the Museum of Broken Relationships. The museum, an intriguing and emotional space, features items sent in from around the world—each one symbolizing a piece of a broken relationship. The museum was started by a couple who couldn’t decide who should keep a stuffed toy that had been part of both their lives. Among the oddities on display is a gallstone, which a woman attributed to the stress from her former relationship.

Our guide then took us past the parliament, where we discussed the familiar political woes that seem to echo across the globe. We also heard tales of witch trials, with the guide humorously suggesting that the stocks once used for witches might be more fitting for today’s politicians. We learned that Croatia is recognized by UNESCO as the birthplace of the cravat, the precursor to the modern tie, and spotted a few shops in Zagreb selling quirky ties as a nod to this heritage.

The tour concluded back at the main square, where we received some excellent food recommendations. We couldn’t resist indulging in some local cuisine and fell in love with the cherry liqueur—so much so that we bought a huge bottle to take home.

The final stop for the day, promised to the kids, was the Museum of Illusions. It was a hit with all of us. We started with the vortex tunnel, which, from the outside, simply looks like a rotating cylinder. However, once inside, it feels like you're spinning—a sensation so strong that Jeevan had to keep his eyes closed, though the kids absolutely loved it. The museum offered plenty of other delights, including puzzles that captivated us in the center of the exhibit.

We enjoyed a leisurely start to the morning and a gentle stroll back to our accommodations, making it a truly relaxed and enjoyable day.