Cocoon Hostel

It was a simple, clean hostel with very friendly staff. We had a small room, though larger ones are available. Having a parking spot right at the hostel is a big help in Dubrovnik, where parking can be a hassle. You can walk to a bus stop, ATM, and small restaurant in less than five minutes.

The beds are really comfortable, and the locker is huge. The facilities are great, though the showers run a little cold, which sounds fine in summer but I'm unsure about winter. Those unusual check-in and check-out hours are the one thing keeping this from a definite five stars.

The guy who welcomed me was very nice, and the place was clean and comfortable. It's outside the old town, but close enough. There's not much atmosphere, and the kitchen isn't anything special. The oven was so weak that my omelet took 15 minutes.

Croatia is an incredible country to explore. Dubrovnik gives you a chance to stay in King's Landing for a very fair price, with beautiful villas and views around, but don't stop at the coast. Inland, the scenery and climates shift from Mediterranean to alpine, with all sorts in between. I'd especially recommend the Mongolian Yurt stay in Plaški and Plitvice Lakes. There's so much to do that anyone who comes away not completely taken with the place probably didn't see the Croatia I did. Put the phone and iPad away except for photos and videos, including the ones you upload to google maps, and enjoy your time here. I loved it and can't wait to return. I might even stay for good next time. The locals were wonderfully gracious and patient with me. I didn't speak the language, but never felt like an outsider. Many speak English, and the others were lovely too, even without needing those translate apps, lol.