FROM LJUBJANA

So after seven towns and two full weeks in Croatia, I've made my way into Slovenia. If nothing else, I'm glad to be in a country where they've banned smoking in public places. The Croatian bars were tough for me, a non-smoker...especially when I'm not washing my clothes very often! Speaking of which, the hostel I'm staying in right now, aside from formerly being a prison, has a washer and dryer, so I'm smelling much better than I have in some time. Check out the website...I'm in Cell 103 http://hostelcelica.com/en/index.html

Spent today, my first full day in Ljubljana, just strolling around the city sightseeing. It's a tiny capital, but has a lovely river running through the center with cafes lining either side. Went from cafe to cafe and had one drink/ice cream/sandwich at each as I read and people-watched. Definitely was in the sun a bit too long. I'm in full lounging mode I think. Tomorrow I'm going to Bled for the day though where I hope to get a little exercise.

Prior to Ljubljana, I was in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Stayed at a hostel that was only average, but met a couple Germans who were in town to watch some soccer, er, football. Had a crazy final night out there resulting in me being in a 60 square foot apartment at 4am with 6 other people who were literally half my age. All good fun though.

Before Zagreb, I was in Pula, on the coast. Another of the really nice seaside towns in Croatia that I'm sure explodes in the summer. Boats abounded and I treated myself to a nice hotel for two nights, a massage and two even nicer, REALLY expensive meals at the hotel restaurant which is supposed to be the best in Croatia. http://www.valsabbion.hr/

I have three more nights in Slovenia and then I'm off to Italy to meet up with the Miani clan. Very anxious to see some friends again!