I’ve been in Croatia for nearly a month now, where a mix of work, writing deadlines and family obligations has kept me away from the blog. But as I wrap up here in Zagreb, preparing for my return to New York later this week, I realize I am starting to feel the Croatian summer blues.

This is the time of year when I typically head south to spend time on the coast with family and friends. Either it’s one of my island hideaways, Korčula, Vis or Hvar, or my family beach house in Rogoznica near Šibenik. This year, I will miss the fresh Adriatic dips, lavender-scented breezes, the scorching midday sun spiked with the song of crickets…

Yet New York calls, where instead of leisurely days in Dalmatia I will be writing away in my cubicle at Brooklyn Writers Space. It’s exciting nonetheless: I’m working on my first book, an all-consuming project I’ve plunged in head on. Still, I’ll be missing Croatia.

All that compounded with the fact I receive almost daily emails from friends of friends who are Croatia-bound and looking for insider tips. I am always happy to help when I can. When I can’t due to lack of time, I direct them to Lonely Planet Croatia.

Recently I’ve also been telling people about the new Jetsetter travel planning service that features me as their Croatia expert. So if you want clear and personalized Croatia pointers, especially if off the beaten path is your beat, talk to me via Jetsetter.

In the meantime, as I get ready to leave Zagreb and its heat wave and everyone else is heading south, I’m feeling a tad nostalgic for Croatia in advance. It’ll be the first summer in many years – eight, at least – that I won’t be heading to the Dalmatian coast.

For that reason, I’d love to hear your own Croatia experiences, read Croatia-related blogs and especially see photos from your trips. Do share!