As our Croatian cruise drew to a close, we discovered that the smallest ports often left the biggest impression. From the charming streets of Rab to a heartfelt farewell aboard Princess Eleganza, the final days were filled with unexpected friendships, unforgettable meals and the bittersweet feeling of not wanting the journey to end. Sometimes it's not the destinations you remember most,it's the people and moments that make a trip truly unforgettable.

After a long bus ride from Sarajevo, we arrived in Dubrovnik tired but completely wowed. From endless stone steps and sunset spritzes to walking the Old Town walls and finding Game of Thrones filming spots, our first taste of Croatia was equal parts beautiful and chaotic and the perfect prelude to our Adriatic cruise adventure.

Let’s be real: long haul flights are no joke. And when you’re from Australia, especially Perth, it’s not just a flight, it’s a full-blown endurance event. Our longest trip? Perth to Nashville. Three flights. Over 30 hours. Two sleep-deprived, slightly crumpled, still-in-love humans at the end of it.