From Strangers to Besties: Dara, Courtney, & Croatia

Some trips are just vacations, but others leave a mark on you in unexpected ways. For this duo, booking a SurfYogaBeer group travel vacation in Croatia was exactly that kind of trip. Meet Dara and Courtney, strangers turned newfound besties who each decided on an active and social group travel experience with SYB for different reasons but went home with something unexpectedly the same—friendship built on adventure, pushing past comfort zones on the edge of Croatian cliffs, and saying "yes" to the unknown.

What inspired you to join a SurfYogaBeer trip to Croatia?

Courtney shared, "I knew of a few people who had traveled with SurfYogaBeer before, and I was looking for a trip that had a fitness element. The dates aligned with my schedule, so I booked my flights."

Like many modern-day travelers in their 20s and 30s experience, Dara relatably shared, "I was dead set on going to Croatia, but none of my friends could go. I specifically searched for fitness and social retreats and came across SYB."

How did #SYBCroatia inspire your friendship back home?

"Funny enough, we didn't spend much time together during the daytime on the trip," Courtney shared. "But we naturally gravitated toward each other, finding a safe space in one another in our nightly check-ins after full days of activities." 

Now, a few months post-Croatia, Dara expressed how the trip became "the final straw," inspiring her to move back to NYC from Austin. "There were so many New Yorkers on our Croatia trip, and such a strong sense of community in SYB. Moving back to the city just felt right."

Both living in NYC, Dara and Courtney hang out often, whether hitting weekly workout classes or chatting over a good glass of wine. "We talk daily about life updates," Courtney added. "Dara has been one of my biggest supporters, and I can always count on her for real advice."

Dara, left with Courtney, right in NYC

What was a highlight from #SYBCroatia?

As one of SurfYogaBeer's most active fitness trips with activities like hiking, canoeing, and biking, Dara enthusiastically expressed, "Cliff-jumping!" was an adrenaline rush and a fun bonding experience as the group cheered each other on to leap into the water.

For Courtney, the black-tie evening on the final night stood out. "There were so many good laughs with the group sitting around the table, and seeing everyone dressed up after a week of swimsuits and workout gear made for a special night."

Just a month and a half after the trip, both agreed that reconnecting at the gala (an annual event which raises money for SYBeInspired) with the Croatia crew in New York City was another top moment. All dressed up for a night of reliving special memories, the gala was an excuse to reunite with the group, meet other SYB travelers, and pick up right where they left off—all proof that the friendships made overseas aren't restricted to just vacation.

Cliff-jumping into the Adriatic Sea

What advice would you share with others considering booking a SYB trip and showing up solo?

As Croatia was the first SYB trip for each, Courtney shared that she was initially uncertain about going alone. "I questioned if I would make friends, but the risk was definitely worth it. It was such a special experience to connect with people who are so like-minded."

Dara added, "Traveling with SurfYogaBeer is more than a summer camp vibe." She offered her hot take of going into the trip with no expectations and heading home with memories, new friends, and "a shifted trajectory of life from the best experience" by keeping herself open.

Courtney & Dara ringing in 2025

Why social group travel?

Age, marital status, background, and location aside, we're all looking for connection, and social travel is a pretty fab way to meet awesome people and extend bonds far beyond your trip.

This is why we love group travel:

Zero hassle: Once you've secured your spot, we handle the rest. From a curated itinerary and ensuring safe navigation to trip logistics, we've got it covered.

Social connections: Social group travel fosters opportunities for you to get away (to really dope destinations) while also experiencing them with ambitious, open-minded, adventurous people just like you. 

Life lessons to bring home: Traveling with a group introduces you to different perspectives, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of other cultures and lifestyles.

Why travel to Croatia with SurfYogaBeer?

Summer checklist? Nonstop adventure. Nonstop fun. As one of our most active trips, Croatia is the perfect blend of fitness, action, relaxation, and some of the most breathtaking scenery throughout the magical island of Lopud. And the best part? You'll be accompanied by awesome people with the same energetic spirit as you, because cliff–jumping with a new buddy is always more fun. From kayaking to neighboring islands and snorkeling through underwater caves, mountain biking to secret lunch spots, and sailing on a pirate ship, every day will be packed with infinite "wow" moments, and even better company.

Between jam-packed days full of the best activities with your new besties, you'll be stoked to take advantage of our private beach club (oh, btw alcohol is included in this trip!) By the end of the week, you'll head home with a sun-kissed glow, core memories locked in, and new friends for life.

Is Croatia on your summer checklist yet? We're heading back for an island takeover August 25-31.

SurfYogaBeer is an active and social travel company focused on global, local, and private adventures, offering group trips for people of all ages and fitness levels. We're all looking for adventure. Travel with us–change your life.