Love is in the air and the buzz will only grow louder as Valentine's Day approaches. Of course, we can't talk about love or Valentine's without hearts and Croatia is the perfect destination to celebrate love year-round.

Situated in the Adriatic Sea, between Pasman island and Turanji on the mainland near Zadar, lies Galešnjak. This island, naturally shaped in a heart, was first discovered in the 19th century by Napoleon's cartographer. While this island is privately owned, Dalmatia's most northern region, Zadar, beckons lovers and rightfully so, as the 3,000-year-old city was awarded “European Best Destination 2016.” Full of charm that infuses historical heritage with breath-taking natural beauty, it is sure to create a unique experience for all who visit. Stroll arm in arm along the waterfront and listen to the “Sea Organ,” an instrument built into the steps leading into the sea, which uses wind and waves to create its melody. Zadar's picture perfect beaches also provide plenty of water activities for those looking for a more active holiday that combines culture and a little bit of sun.

Another charming symbol of love is the Licitar, a traditional heart shaped and made with Croatian gingerbread. It is also the symbol of Croatia's capital city, Zagreb. Croatians have been giving this enduring symbol of love for centuries and these little hearts can be seen decorating homes and businesses throughout the country. While some Licitars are now made with other materials, the authentic ones are made with gingerbread. While in Zagreb, stroll through the romantic Upper Town and its network of little streets that stretch between two hills, Kaptol and Gradec. You can stroll the Strossmayer promenade or take in the sweeping views of Zagreb below, or enjoy romantic conversation at one of the charming restaurants, bars and cafes – the options are endless and it doesn't have to cost a fortune!

For those who are anti-Valentine's, The Museum of Broken Relationships, located in Zagreb's center may be just what the love doctor ordered. This unique museum, founded by two ex-lovers, is dedicated to failed relationships. It is now home to a collection of various keepsakes accumulated during relationships, that no longer have a place following the break up.  Some items are typical such as dried flowers, photographs, letters, clothing and some more unique items such as the “ex-axe” donated by a woman from Berlin who used it to destroy her ex-lover's furniture after he left her for another woman! The museum has grown so much in popularity that the collection has even travelled around the world visiting Argentina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, Macedonia, the Philippines, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom. For those who cannot make it to Zagreb anytime soon, in June 2016, the Museum of Broken Relationships in Los Angeles opened its doors and now has a permanent home in the U.S. https://brokenships.com/en.

Regardless of how you like to celebrate the most romantic day of the year, Croatia's charming medieval towns, gorgeous coastline, rich history, culture, emerging gastronomy and vineyards provide something for every couple. For those looking for love, the country's nightlife, bars and party islands filled with festivals are just the destination to find that Mr. or Ms. Right.

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About Croatia

Stretching along the Adriatic Sea, just a stone's throw from Central Europe, Croatia is a country defined by a rich cultural legacy. Today, history perfectly combines with a youthful spirit and vibrant energy that prove irresistible to those seeking diversity. Breath-taking natural beauty, endless coastlines, diverse gastronomy, adventure, sports and wellness, can be enjoyed all year round. Whether exploring the old city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, island hopping around the Split archipelago, truffle hunting in Istria, paragliding across the Plitvice Lakes, delving into Zagreb's streets and hidden passages, birdwatching in Kopacki rit, partying the night away at Zrce beach in Novalja or taking time out with the family on Zlatni Rat beach, there truly is something for everyone in Croatia.

For more information, visit: http://croatia.hr