Summer Sojourn
Last month, we shared the first look at next summer’s Jet Set journey — a program designed to go beyond the ordinary, blending the charm of Ljubljana, the drama of Slovenia’s alpine landscapes, and the coastal elegance of Rovinj. Next year the Summer Sojourn, June 11-19, 2027, brings that vision to life through two extraordinary hotels that capture the essence of their destinations: the InterContinental Ljubljana in Slovenia and the Grand Park Hotel Rovinj on Croatia’s shimmering Adriatic coast. These properties aren’t just places to stay. They’re part of the experience — each offering its own rhythm, its own personality, and its own way of welcoming you into the heart of Europe.
InterContinental Ljubljana
A Contemporary Base in Slovenia’s Capital
Sitting just outside the historic core, the InterContinental Ljubljana rises above the red roofed skyline, a sleek glass landmark offering a modern, polished contrast to the city’s historic streets. The hotel provides a contemporary counterpoint to Ljubljana’s old world charm and riverside cafés — a place where floor to ceiling windows frame castle views and the Julian Alps appear like a painted backdrop.
Inside, the hotel feels like a modern sanctuary. The design is clean and stylish, with large windows that frame the skyline and surrounding mountains. Rooms are quiet and spacious, with thoughtful touches like locally sourced teas, Slovenian bath amenities, and a soaking tub to wash the day away — details that make settling in for your four night stay feel effortless.
The rooftop restaurant and bar, perched on the 20th floor, is one of the few places in the city where you can take in both Ljubljana Castle and the distant Alps in a single glance. It’s also where you’ll enjoy an elegant breakfast each morning, complete with regional specialties like potica pastries and local honey. The spa and indoor pool offer a welcome reset after a day exploring the capital or venturing into Slovenia’s alpine landscapes. The sauna complex — a staple of Slovenian wellness culture — includes a panoramic Finnish sauna with city views, a detail many guests don’t expect from a city hotel.
Step outside, and Ljubljana unfolds in every direction: open air markets, riverside promenades, wine bars, and the kind of walkable streets that make it easy to explore without a plan. When the itinerary takes you farther afield — to Lake Bled, the mountains, or the countryside — the InterContinental serves as a reliable, comfortable base that makes returning each evening feel effortless.
Grand Park Hotel Rovinj
A Coastal Retreat with Space to Slow Down
Your sea view room features private outdoor space, giving you a front row view of Rovinj’s old town and the sea — the bell tower catching the late day light, fishing boats moving in and out of the harbor, and the coastline shifting colors as the sun sets. Inside, the rooms use natural materials — stone, wood, woven textures — that echo the surrounding landscape. Even the scent in the hallways is intentional, infused with pine and local botanicals.
The hotel’s spa is one of the most extensive in Istria, drawing on regional ingredients like olive oil, rosemary, and sea salt. There’s a cold plunge pool tucked into the wellness circuit, a quiet relaxation room overlooking the marina, and a series of outdoor terraces where you can cool down between treatments.
Dining reflects the region’s culinary identity: fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and Istrian wines that rarely make it outside Croatia. One of the hotel’s lesser known perks is its direct access to the coastal promenade — a long, scenic path locals use for morning walks and sunset strolls. It’s an easy way to reach Rovinj’s old town on foot, passing small coves, pine groves, and viewpoints along the way. From here, the best of Istria is within reach: vineyards, olive oil estates, island boat trips, and the winding streets of Rovinj itself. Simply put – there is no place you’d rather stay in Rovinj.
A Tale of Two Destinations: Slovenia’s Charm & Croatia’s Adriatic Coast
Five nights in Ljubljana. Four nights in Rovinj. Two destinations that complement each other in surprising ways. One Jet Set experience designed to feel effortless from start to finish.
Whether you’re drawn to the alpine beauty of Slovenia, the sun washed charm of Croatia, or the rare opportunity to experience both without compromise, this year’s Jet Set program delivers a reward worthy of the effort it takes to earn it. In the coming months, we’ll share more about curated excursions, culinary highlights, and the signature moments that will define this journey. For now, consider this your first glimpse of the places you’ll soon call home — the settings for the photos you’ll share and the memories you’ll keep.
BEYOND THE ORDINARY
Jenny shares her experiences from a recent journey through Europe’s most enchanting and undiscovered region.
This past May, I had the privilege of exploring Slovenia and Istria. It has been on our radar for a few years now, and even with high expectations, this region still managed to surprise me in ways I didn’t anticipate. My excitement grew with every turn: charming cities brimming with life, storybook castles, crystal-blue lakes framed by emerald forests, and the snow-capped peaks of the Julian Alps.
I fell head over heels for its depth and endless beauty. What struck me most was the variety—within just a few hours’ drive, you can move seamlessly from city to countryside, from mountain lakes to the Adriatic coast. Compact yet rich in experience, this region offers a journey that feels endlessly rewarding.
We’re thrilled to invite you to join us on this 9-night Summer Sojourn, blending the romantic charm of Ljubljana, Slovenia, the Alpine vistas of Lake Bled, and the coastal allure of Rovinj, Croatia—an experience as rich in culture as it is in indulgence. We even added an extra night so you can truly savor each destination, linger over leisurely lunches, explore hidden corners at your own pace, and soak in every moment. You’ll depart the U.S. on a Friday and return the following Sunday, giving you ample time to unwind and fully enjoy each destination.
Ljubljana immediately charmed me with its fairy-tale architecture, outdoor cafés, friendly locals, and easy pace. I loved starting my mornings along the pastel-lined riverbanks, sipping espresso beneath ivy-covered arches, and soaking in the effortless charm of one of Europe’s most walkable capitals. It’s a city that feels like a secret—romantic, creative, and quietly captivating.
Not far from the capital, we headed to the mountains to visit the storybook beauty of Lake Bled—a place so serene it feels almost unreal. We glided across the turquoise water aboard traditional wooden pletna boats, making our way to the tiny island crowned by its iconic church. Surrounded by emerald forests and distant peaks, the lake’s stillness was nothing short of breathtaking.
Later, we ventured into the Slovenian countryside, where we met a local beekeeper who shared his craft and passion for sustainability. It was a genuine glimpse into rural life—full of warmth, pride, and authenticity. Between gourmet dinners and intimate tastings, we wandered through charming shops selling locally made honey, wine, chocolate, and olive oils—each one telling its own story of place and tradition. As a small country, Slovenia takes great pride in what it produces. Most of what’s made here isn’t intended for export—it’s crafted for locals, by locals. That sense of care and connection to the land is something you can taste in every bite and feel in every encounter. Plan to bring a second bag—these local treasures are too good, and too rare, to leave behind.
Next, we left the mountains for the coast. A two-hour drive through rolling hills brought us to Istria, a region shaped by Italian, Slovenian, and Croatian influences. Sun-drenched coastlines stretch alongside vineyards and olive groves that reach the sea. Slow afternoons unfold in medieval hill towns, where cobblestone streets lead to sweeping coastal views and hidden culinary gems.
We visited a family-run olive oil farm, tasting golden liquid fresh from the groves, before arriving at the coastal town of Rovinj, where pastel shops and sea-facing cafés unfold like a dream. Afternoons slipped by over long lunches, laughter, truffle tastings, and local wines. It’s a place to savor, linger, and let life’s pleasures unfold naturally.
Rovinj is a rare find. It reminded me of the Amalfi Coast, but unlike Amalfi, which can feel sprawling and crowded, Rovinj is cozy and walkable—every street is accessible on foot. You can wander cobblestone alleys and discover hidden cafés, artisan shops, or quiet piazzas without ever needing a car or ferry. The harbor is the heartbeat of the town, with fishing boats bobbing alongside sailboats, and life unfolding at a gentle, captivating pace. While it feels grounded in locally made products and old-world charm, I was also stunned by the number of gourmet and upscale dining experiences tucked throughout the town. Rovinj truly feels like an uncovered secret—a place where authenticity meets indulgence.
This dual-destination escape is for those who crave extraordinary, immersive, and authentic experiences—the essence of a true Jet Set journey. Stay tuned as we unveil more details about this special summer journey.