Written by OneSeed Latin America Region Director Sergio Nunez

A first ascent in mountaineering always has a halo of mysticism around it, for the unknown and the challenge. This is why we call our first trips to a new location “First Ascents” as they involve a lot of preparation and discovery. Our return travelers are always the first to try out our new destinations as part of the First Ascents community, getting exclusive access to new itineraries and ultimately helping shape our trips. 

We chose Croatia as our next destination because we love to offer our travelers more places and experiences. In this particular case, my sister Gabi had been living in Croatia for over six years and had begun working in tourism. It seemed like a perfect fit, and after a year of scouting locations, meeting with local partners, and a practice run with OneSeed’s founder this summer, the itinerary was set.

I joined our first group of travelers in Croatia this September. This trip was particularly special to me and Gabi because we are descendants of immigrants that settled in Patagonia from Croatia. It means a lot to be able to explore and share our homeland. Croatia’s landscape is so unique as well. You hike past vineyards where locals are picking olives and grapes, and you kayak past fisherman bringing in a fresh catch (that you might eat that night!).

One thing that was surprising was hearing how past OneSeeders remember their guides above all else. Not necessarily the height of the mountains, but the names and backstories of their guides and how happy they were with them. This felt incredibly rewarding - thank you OneSeed guides!

It can be difficult to go from being a OneSeed staff member to a traveler, but once I made the switch and just enjoyed the pace, the food, the smiles of my travel companions, and the feedback - it was such a great reminder of why I love this job.

Dobrodošli !! (welcome!)