My OAT Crossroads of the Adriatic Review

Tips for Visiting Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Slovenia

This was our 9th trip with Overseas Adventure Travel, taken back in 2017.

But here's something that really stuck with me. Two couples on our tour had each taken more than 20 trips with OAT.

And another couple was in the middle of an incredible 9 back-to-back OAT adventures.

I share that because if you're considering your first trip with OAT or Grand Circle, I think those are some pretty powerful testimonials.

People don't take 20+ trips with the same travel company—or book nine adventures in a row—unless they're doing something right.

But enough about OAT in general. Let's focus on our Crossroads of the Adriatic adventure. My comments, observations and tips continue below.

When We Took This Trip: June 10-26, 2017
Jesse's Thrifty Senior Traveler Rating:
4.00 out of 5 Stars

Planning Your First
Overseas Adventure Travel Trip?

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I hope you find it of value. And, if you are planning a first trip with Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) I have a favor to ask.

The OAT Referral Program
I've now taken 19 OAT adventures and have another one booked. If you decide to travel with OAT, I'd really appreciate your telling them (when booking):
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OAT #932019."

The OAT referral program helps me earn a
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So far, 88 travelers have told OAT they were referred by Jesse Slome.

If you decide to take an OAT adventure, I hope you'll be #89!

Thank you - and I hope to see you somewhere in the world!

Because You'll Experience Unexpected Surprises at Every Turn

Why Crossroads of the Adriatic?

Can you find Italy on a world map? Of course.

But I suspect far fewer Americans could point to Slovenia—let alone Montenegro. Yet Italy and Croatia are separated by only about 20 miles of the Adriatic Sea.

And that's exactly why we decided to visit this often-overlooked part of Europe.

We had no idea what to expect. And boy, were we pleasantly surprised.

I'd describe this OAT adventure as a trip filled with unexpected surprises at every turn.

4 Balkan Jewels You Can't Miss: Dubrovnik, Kotor, Mostar & Sarajevo

We like cities and towns. They offer a dynamic mix of local life, unique regional food and historic charm that helps bring a destination to life.

This trip offered a wonderful combination of larger cities and smaller towns—each with its own distinct personality.

Dubrovnik is Croatia's coastal crown jewel, famous for its beautiful stone streets and massive fortress walls overlooking the blue waters of the Adriatic. Walking the city's walls is a must—not only for the history, but for views that have remained spectacular for centuries.

Just down the coast in Montenegro, Kotor sits inside a dramatic bay surrounded by towering limestone mountains. Its maze of medieval streets and Venetian-era architecture makes it a fascinating place to explore.

And this is also where we enjoyed a lamb sandwich that we still talk about nearly 10 years later. That's saying something.

Bosnia & Herzegovina's Mostar captivated us with its famous Stari Most, the historic Ottoman bridge spanning the beautiful Neretva River. Cobblestone streets, small shops and cafés on both sides of the river make this one of those places that feels completely different from anything you might expect before arriving.

Then there was Sarajevo. Mosque minarets, cathedral spires and bustling bazaars exist side by side in a city that has stood at the crossroads of cultures for centuries. It is fascinating, complicated and impossible to fully appreciate without understanding at least some of its recent history.

Deeply Moving—and Complex—History

Unlike many destinations in Western Europe, where the history often feels safely distant, some of the most significant events here happened within living memory.

The wars of the 1990s remain part of the personal stories of people we met.

Hearing firsthand accounts was a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change, how people survive unimaginable circumstances and how resilience becomes an essential part of rebuilding.

Here again, OAT's willingness to include candid discussions about difficult and sometimes controversial subjects stood out to me.

For me, travel is more than simply seeing beautiful places and taking photographs.

As a first-generation American, hearing stories about conflict, displacement, survival and rebuilding felt especially personal.

Stunning Natural Beauty

Nature lovers will be amazed by how quickly the scenery changes.

One day you're taking in the Alpine beauty of Lake Bled. The next, you're walking boardwalks past the emerald lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Soon afterward, you're looking at dramatic mountains meeting the sea along the coastlines of Montenegro and Croatia.

Four countries. A remarkable variety of cultures. Deep history. Spectacular scenery.

And, at least for us, unexpected surprises at nearly every turn.

Tips for OAT Crossroads of the Adriatic Travelers

The Thrifty Senior Traveler always likes sharing tips. Here are a few I posted following our 2017 Crossroads of the Adriatic adventure.

Use them as a guideline because, of course, things change over time.

Coffee in Croatia Was a Disappointment
Especially considering how close you are to Italy!

The coffee we encountered wasn't among our favorite parts of the trip. However, many hotels will make you a fresh cappuccino at breakfast if you ask the wait staff. Well worth doing.

And bring along an insulated bottle or travel mug—something I now take on every trip. Sometimes I use it for chilled water. Other times, I fill it with a breakfast coffee refill that I can enjoy later in the day.

Try Bronhi Original Candies
Our wonderful guide, Bruna, introduced our group to Bronhi Original candies.

They look a little like hard caramels, but don't let that fool you.

The inside has a strong menthol-like effect that can leave you feeling as though your airways have suddenly opened up.

You'll either enjoy them—or at least I certainly did.

Don't Add Too Many Extra Days in Dubrovnik
We arrived early and added extra time in Dubrovnik despite reading posts suggesting that one day was enough.

My opinion after visiting?
The amount of time included with the OAT tour was enough.

Dubrovnik is absolutely worth seeing, but if you're considering adding several extra days before the trip, you may want to rethink it.

My Take on OAT's Optional Trips

We don't always take the extra-cost optional tours offered by OAT.

However, in 2017 we took the first optional trip offered—to Motovun—and I thought it was well worth doing and an outstanding value.

The optional trip to Lake Bled was also enjoyable, although I didn't consider it quite the same value.

But here's the thing: What else are you going to do?

So my advice is to take it.

Shop for Something You Won't Find at Home

If you enjoy unusual crafts and souvenirs, Sarajevo's historic Baščaršija Bazaar is worth exploring.

Look for traditional Bosnian coffee pots, called džezva, crafted by local coppersmiths.

You may also find a more poignant reminder of Sarajevo's recent history: artisan items crafted from deactivated shell casings left over from the war in the 1990s.

Do a little online searching before you go so you'll have an idea of what interests you—and what you want to look for.

Try Croatia's Black Risotto

Don't let the color scare you.

Crni rižot, or black risotto, gets its dramatic appearance from cuttlefish or squid ink. The result is a rich, savory seafood dish with a distinctly Adriatic flavor.

It may not look particularly appetizing in a photograph.

But give it a try.

And Now for the Most Important Food Recommendation... Dessert!

No Thrifty Senior Traveler review would be complete without a recommended dessert.

In Slovenia, order štruklji—and if you have a sweet tooth, look for sladki štruklji, the sweet version.

This traditional Slovenian specialty is made from rolled dough filled with ingredients such as cottage cheese or cream, sliced and served either savory or sweet.

The sweet versions can come topped with fruit, cream, chocolate or other delicious additions.

See me enjoying mine.

And here's the really good news: I paid €5.50 in 2017. A quick online check says it isn't that much more in 2026!

Prices have certainly changed since then, but this is still one Slovenian food experience I wouldn't skip.

After all, you can spend an entire day walking through old cities, climbing steps and exploring historic sites. You've earned dessert.

OAT vs. Rick Steves: Which Adriatic Tour Is Right for You?

If you're researching Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Slovenia, you'll find several excellent tour options—including Rick Steves' Best of the Adriatic.

I've taken 19 OAT trips, so obviously I'm partial to OAT. But I don't think Rick Steves travelers are making a bad choice. His company has built a terrific reputation for European travel.

The better question is: Which style of travel is right for you?

OAT's Crossroads of the Adriatic

OAT's current itinerary is an 18-day adventure covering four countries: Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Slovenia. Groups are limited to no more than 16 travelers, and the trip includes airfare, accommodations, transportation, 32 meals and the services of a local OAT Trip Experience Leader. The current itinerary also includes a home-hosted dinner and 15 small-group activities.

Rick Steves' Best of the Adriatic

Rick Steves' current tour is a 14-day itinerary covering Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina. It includes destinations such as Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Plitvice Lakes, Mostar and Dubrovnik, with groups of 24–28 travelers. The current 2026 price starts at $4,845 per person plus airfare.

Where I Think OAT Has the Advantage

Smaller groups: OAT's maximum of 16 travelers is considerably smaller than Rick Steves' 24–28. After traveling with OAT 19 times, I can tell you that small groups make a difference—particularly when you're getting on and off buses, visiting smaller towns and having conversations with your Trip Experience Leader.

Four countries instead of three: If your goal is to experience as much of the Adriatic/Balkans region as possible in one trip, OAT adds Montenegro to Croatia, Slovenia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Kotor was one of our memorable stops.

A longer, more immersive trip: OAT's 18-day itinerary gives you four additional days compared with the current Rick Steves tour. That's particularly valuable when you're covering four countries.

Airfare included: OAT's current advertised price includes international airfare, while Rick Steves' published tour price does not. Of course, prices and inclusions change, so compare the current offers before booking.

Where Rick Steves May Have the Advantage

A shorter trip: If you have only two weeks available, Rick Steves' 14-day itinerary may fit your schedule better.

A slightly different itinerary: Rick Steves includes destinations such as Rovinj, Pula, Split and Korčula that aren't part of OAT's current Crossroads itinerary. If those places are high on your personal wish list, look carefully at the day-to-day itineraries before choosing.

A proven European travel style: Rick Steves has enormous experience with European travel and provides his trademark guidebooks, local experts and centrally located hotels. For travelers who already know and enjoy the Rick Steves approach, that's a legitimate reason to choose his tour.

So Which Would I Choose?

For me, OAT wins.

But that's based on what I value in travel.

I prefer smaller groups, more time, local connections and getting into places that aren't simply the most famous European stops. I also like having airfare included and having OAT handle the transportation and logistics.

And after taking 19 OAT adventures, I suppose
I've made my preference pretty clear.

If you're choosing between OAT and Rick Steves,
I wouldn't tell you that one company is universally better.

I'd tell you to look at the itineraries, group sizes,
what's included and—most importantly—
which style of travel sounds more like you.

For me, that answer was OAT.

OAT vs. Tauck: Which Adriatic Tour Is Right for You?

If you're researching an Adriatic vacation, you'll find another highly regarded option: Tauck's Adriatic Treasures. Tauck offers both a land-based journey from Croatia to Venice and small-ship options along the Dalmatian Coast.

I've taken 19 OAT trips, including Crossroads of the Adriatic, so I obviously have a preference. But that doesn't mean Tauck isn't an excellent choice.

The two companies simply approach the region differently.

Where I Think OAT Has the Advantage

Smaller Groups: OAT limits its groups to 16 travelers. Tauck's land-based Adriatic Treasures journey averages about 24 guests. If you've traveled with OAT, you know that small groups can make a real difference when exploring historic towns, getting on and off transportation and interacting with local people.

More Time and More Countries: OAT's current Crossroads of the Adriatic is an 18-day journey through Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Slovenia. Tauck's land itinerary is shorter and follows a somewhat different route.

For me, the opportunity to experience four very different countries on one trip was a major attraction.

Value: This is where the Thrifty Senior Traveler has to speak up.

Tauck is a premium travel company, and its pricing reflects that. OAT offers a considerably different value proposition, combining small groups, included airfare and an extensive itinerary.

If you're looking for an excellent experience without automatically choosing the most expensive option, I'd give OAT a very serious look.

A More Intimate Experience: One of the things I've consistently appreciated about OAT over 19 trips is the combination of small groups and local Trip Experience Leaders.

You're not simply being moved from one famous attraction to another. There's more opportunity for conversations, unexpected stops and interactions with people who actually live in the communities you're visiting.

Where Tauck May Have the Advantage

Luxury: This is where I'd give Tauck considerable credit.

Tauck positions itself at the premium end of escorted travel, with an emphasis on upscale accommodations, included experiences and a high level of service.

If luxury is your priority—and you're willing to pay for it—Tauck deserves a serious look.

Unique Included Experiences: Tauck's itineraries include some special-access and behind-the-scenes experiences that can be difficult to arrange independently.

Its Adriatic offerings also feature distinctive experiences in places such as Croatia and Slovenia that may appeal to travelers looking for a more traditional luxury-tour experience.

Small-Ship Cruising: If you'd rather experience the Adriatic from the water than primarily by land, Tauck offers small-ship itineraries along the Dalmatian Coast.

That's an entirely different travel experience from OAT's Crossroads of the Adriatic.

If waking up each morning aboard a small ship, visiting coastal islands and letting the ship handle some of the transportation appeals to you, Tauck may be the better choice.

So Which Would I Choose?

For me, OAT wins.

That's probably not a surprise coming from the Thrifty Senior Traveler—or someone who has taken 19 OAT adventures.

I value the smaller groups, the longer itinerary, the four-country experience and the overall value OAT provides.

But I wouldn't tell you that OAT is automatically better for everyone.

If your priorities are luxury accommodations, premium service or a small-ship Adriatic experience, Tauck may be exactly what you're looking for.

My advice is simple:

Compare the itineraries. Compare what's included. Compare the group sizes. And compare the prices.

Then decide which travel style fits you.

For me, after experiencing Crossroads of the Adriatic, I'd happily choose OAT again.

A Note From the Thrifty Senior Traveler

I created the Thrifty Senior Traveler website to share my travel experiences, practical tips and, of course, ways to save money with other travelers. I don't work for or receive payment from any particular travel company.

I clearly like Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT). After 19 OAT adventures, I've found that they check many of my boxes: great trips, small groups and good value. I am, after all, the Thrifty Senior Traveler.

Taking Your First OAT Trip? I Have a Favor to Ask

OAT has a special Referral Program for first-time travelers.

When making your reservation, please tell OAT: “I was referred by Jesse Slome — his OAT # is 932019.”

You'll qualify for $100 off per person on your first OAT trip, and I'll receive one referral credit toward a future OAT adventure.

It costs you nothing. And once you've taken your first OAT trip, you can earn referral credits by referring your own friends and fellow travelers.

Will You Be #89?

So far, 88 travelers have told OAT they were referred by Jesse Slome. If you decide to take an OAT adventure, I hope you'll be #89!

And thank you for helping the Thrifty Senior Traveler keep exploring—and sharing what I've learned along the way.

Written by Jesse Slome, The Thrifty Senior Traveler
Originally published August 28, 2026 | Last updated August 28, 2026

Enjoy Crossroads of the Adriatic photos taken by Jesse Slome, the Thrifty Senior Traveler

We didn't try this pizza with french fries being enjoyed by a youngster. But I have to tell you that I wish I had ... because what a combo!