Adventures Croatia is excited to welcome a new member to the team – Ana Matic .
Ana works on the ground in Croatia and her passion for travel and love for her home country makes her a crucial part of our team. As Croatia travel specialists, we’re always on the lookout for talented and knowledgeable staff who truly love and enjoy every aspect of Croatia.
What inspired you to work for Adventures Croatia?
I was born and raised in Croatia — on the beautiful Pelješac peninsula, right on the waterfront. Growing up surrounded by the sea, nature, incredible food, and rich culture left a lasting impact on me. That deep connection to my homeland made me passionate about sharing it with others. Working with Adventures Croatia gives me the perfect opportunity to help travelers experience the real Croatia — beyond the guidebooks — in a way that’s authentic, personal, and unforgettable.
How long have you worked in travel?
I’ve been in the travel industry for over 20 years, bringing with me a blend of international experience and an interdisciplinary educational background. This combination has allowed me to approach travel planning with a broad perspective and a deep understanding of different cultures, client needs, and logistics — all essential for crafting seamless and enriching travel experiences.
How did you first get into the industry?
My journey started quite naturally. I’ve always been curious about the world — maybe it stems from having to take a boat to school every morning from the mainland to the island of Korčula! That early sense of adventure led me into the world of travel, where I’ve worked across many areas including MICE, concierge services, and production support. Over time, I found that curating meaningful and unique travel experiences — especially in Croatia — is what I love most.
Where is your favorite Croatian travel destination?
Being born by the sea, I’m naturally drawn to the islands — and Croatia has over 1,000 of them, including islets and reefs! Each has its own personality and charm. Some of my favorites include Korčula for its cultural depth, Vis for its raw, untamed beauty, and Lastovo for its peace and dark skies. There’s something magical about island life — slower, more connected to nature, and incredibly rewarding for travelers seeking authenticity.
What is your favorite thing about Croatia?
I love that Croatia still experiences all four seasons — we truly enjoy a proper Mediterranean climate, which brings a beautiful rhythm to life here. What makes it really special is the diversity across our relatively small country. Each region offers something unique: whether it’s visual landscapes, culinary traditions, historical layers, or cultural influences — there’s always something new to discover, even for us locals.
What is your favorite local dish, and where is the best place to enjoy it?
That’s a tough one — Croatia’s culinary scene is wonderfully rich. I deeply appreciate traditional, old-style dishes that are still made the same way as generations before. Peka (meat or seafood slow-cooked under an iron bell), grilled daily catch, and dishes prepared with an abundance of extra virgin olive oil, paired with fabulous local wine, are my go-tos.
One of my favorite culinary gems is Konoba Mate in Pupnat-Green Michelin star (on Korčula island). It’s a place that celebrates authenticity and simplicity — my kind of place.
Also, on a personal note, I enjoy spending time in our small family vineyard and olive grove on Pelješac. That connection to the land runs deep.
What makes Croatia stand apart from anywhere else in the world?
Croatia is home — it’s where my heart truly is. The more I traveled, lived, and worked abroad (UK, Ireland, USA, Sweden, and even the oceans while working on cruise ships), the more I came to value the beauty and richness of my origins. There’s something grounding about being here — it’s a land that stays with you, no matter how far you roam.
If you could plan an entire vacation around one thing, what would it be?
It depends on the season!
Summer: A two-week sailing trip across the Adriatic — nothing compares.
Autumn: Hiking in Northern Velebit and Gorski Kotar, foraging for wild mushrooms and embracing the golden landscapes.
Spring: Exploring Baranja, a hidden gem full of flavor and culture.
Winter: Enjoying the festive spirit of Zagreb’s Christmas Market and a bit of skiing on Sljeme.
Croatia is a year-round destination — there’s always something meaningful to experience.
Booking a tour with Adventures Croatia
When it comes to planning a vacation to Croatia our team members will ensure you have the best possible experience. Our Croatia travel specialists look forward to assisting you with your travel needs and desires as we perfectly pair them with our extensive local skills and knowledge to provide the most memorable vacation experience.
From pre-planned, private tours to Croatia, to tailor-made vacation packages which encompass all the very best parts of Croatia, we can design the ultimate holiday experience that is completely bespoke to your desired itinerary.
Get in touch with our travel specialists to start booking your next holiday.
