Private Client

September 2006

Dubronik

reason / objective

Our client wanted to celebrate his 50th birthday in style…a party, but with a difference! He wanted to give something back to his closest friends and on this occasion, a whirlwind trip abroad to a luxurious location was his preference to celebrate the arrival of his ‘semi-centenary’!

concept / solution

Numerous locations were sourced and feasibility studies undertaken on each area to provide a range of ideas to suit the client’s brief. Logistics, flights, climate, ground programs, hotels, activities, restaurants and spas were all investigated in-depth. A shortlist of 4 locations culminated in the selection of a ‘pirate themed’ trip to Dubrovnik. The scene was set…….
A 6 month lead-in to the Birthday celebrations allowed the Smyle team to tease the lucky guests as to the ‘identity’ of the event.  Various false clues were sent to conceal the venue identity.  Invitees also received etched treasure maps and scrolls with wax seals revealing tantalising hints about the event. A buzz amongst the guests began! Further teasers were sent in the form of a ‘message in a bottle’, a tool used to acquire the necessary information required for Smyle to produce personalised itineraries for the weekend. Each guest received differing details so that those with an inquisitive streak couldn’t start to second guess!
A site visit to Dubrovnik was undertaken by the Smyle team to confirm all aspects available to the client for the weekend. The possibilities of inclement weather, unfortunate circumstances such as loss of a passport or sustaining injury were all taken into account and necessary contingencies put in place.
On arrival in Croatia, our guests found personalised itineraries in their luxury hotel rooms, tailored to suit their differing proclivities. Some had been given spa times, info on art galleries or bungee jumps, jeep safaris.
Each aspect of the weekend programme was a surprise for the guests. The first evening was spent enjoying a guided tour of the Old Town. A visit to a much celebrated traditional restaurant followed, situated in the picturesque countryside, surrounded by rivers, waterfalls and vineyards. Waitresses in traditional dress served exquisite food made from the finest and freshest ingredients enhanced with Croatian wines & brandy.
The second day commenced with a private breakfast on the terrace with breathtaking views over the beautiful Old Town. Then followed a trip on board an awe-inspiring boat – the Karaka! The Karaka is a replica of a famous Croatian pirate ship from the 16th century. Our guests departed from Gruz Harbour and headed towards the Elafiti islands, stopping first at Lopud Island. As the ship pulled into the port it was attacked by Pirates! They immediately captured the birthday boy, much to the hilarity of the other guests! They demanded treasure in return for his release and the guests were then given treasure maps to go on a hunt across the island through beaches and villages to search for treasure containing Croatian delicacies.
From Lopud, the Karaka journeyed onto Sipan Island. The party enjoyed a bespoke luxurious banquet at one of Croatians newest and most talked about restaurants - boasting a Michelin starred Head Chef. Guests then enjoyed a private tour around Sipan Castle which is a beautiful old manor house owned by a well respected shipping family from Dubrovnik, the tour not only of the castle but also a fascinating art collection and the stunning vineyards.
On their return to Dubrovnik, the guests dined on the private terrace of Nautika, the city’s most famous and luxurious restaurant and all enjoyed lavish treatment of the sort usually reserved for visiting Heads of State!  From here it was off to a VIP bar with all the service you would expect, partying until the small hours…….
The final day was spent recovering from the night before! Spa and luxurious leisure facilities were utilised in addition to a private ‘hangover breakfast’ before departing back to London.