Just us girls

I'm not one who likes surprise trips, but when my sister announced she'd like to visit the seaside and I had to face the fact she has already booked an apartment, I obviously had no choice. How could I possibly say I'm not in the mood? It would be our first holiday in a while, and the first time all of us girls would be together after that dreadful day. And no matter how I put it, I think mom is still a lot lonelier that she'll ever admit. So, whenever one says Let's go somewhere, I will say Yes, please. 
The plan turned out to be spending three days in lovely Piran, with a little bit of sightseeing and lots of swimming. Just us girls. No man, no camper, no bicycles. No mom camping somewhere along the Adriatic coast. 

After an early morning wake-up, we headed towards the coast. 

As the apartment would only be available by noon, we had some time to walk Piran's narrow streets and enjoy the sights.

Probably the prettiest music school you will ever see

When we moved into the apartment, we soon realized it had a fantastic location and a great view from our very own terrace :)

Later in the day, the weather seemed to change with strong wind and waves and a light that made the sea appear grey. Not quite the swimming weather you wish for, but on the other hand it gave me lots of opportunities to picture the seagulls as they floated above the rooftops.

What else can be done on a windy day? Going to a museum of course. 
Nondescript on the outside, the Magic World of Shells turned out to be the greatest discovery in a while. Even though it is a small museum, it presents about 4000 shellfish and snails from all over the world that are beautifully arranged and described. Next to the exhibits that are displayed behind glass, it offers a number of interactive stops where one can touch, listen, watch and explore the underwater world. Not to mention the wonderful custodian who will gladly share his knowledge and introduce the collection to you. Definitely worth a visit!

And what about a trip to Trst/Trieste? A brief look at the architecture of the the seaport city tells the strong influence of the Habsburg Monarchy and if it wasn't for the sea, one could easily think they are strolling through Vienna.

However, we came across remains of Roman times, too.

As well as a beautiful church that turned out to be the Serb-Orthodox Temple of Holy Trinity and Saint Spyridon. Unfortunately, it was closed - I sure would love to have a sneak-peek at its interior :(

A quick walk over the Piazza Unità d'Italia before we'd head back to the car. Turns out sister's colleague was a handy guide and chauffeur, and a wonderful host overall. But of course the people of Primorska always are :)

Another view towards the gulf of Triest from the promenade car driving past the promenade...

... And a spectacular golden sunset seen from Koper, before we tried the best pizza ever.

Another night, another day - and Piran decided to show its most charming site. From blue skies and peaceful sea...

... To the parish church of St. George that offers views all over the city. And in the end, it's all those little things that make you love Piran...

But then again, also the quiet part of the coast that is known as Nature reserve Strunjan has its charms. Nothing can beat a walk by the sea as the tide is setting in...

... Except maybe another stunning sunset in Koper. Or maybe a superb dinner?

And since it turned out to be so great, we decided to ask whether it would be possible to extend our stay for another day. It was. Another chance to enjoy the city lights and some local snacks.

In the end, all the shades of blue didn't make it easy to pack...

... But after a short detour to Izola, we headed home for good...

Note to self: suntan cream won't do as long as it's stored somewhere in your bag. You need to actually apply it on your skin, just like you're telling everyone to do. Turns out the little while I spent in the sun was a *little* too much, but then again if you don't follow the rules, you will feel the consequences. Literally :(