Small group adventure company, Intrepid, says that now is the time to visit Croatia and Eastern Europe.

EU accession and more frequent flights from budget airlines mean Eastern European countries are becoming accessible to larger numbers of tourists, who want to discover cultural gems and, in many cases, benefit from their stronger purchasing power.

David, an Intrepid tour leader, says that Croatia may soon be overrun with tourists. He says joining a small group tour before that happens is a good way of getting into the heart of the country and meeting local people.

He also advises visiting off-season (not in July or August) for a better chance of getting to know the 'real' country.

Intrepid tours, which are supervised by 'Western' leaders, use local accommodation and transportation, as well as local guides.

The company runs several tours to Croatia, some of which visit other parts of Eastern Europe: Destination Dalmatian coast (7 days), Adriatic Explorer (8 days), Balkan Adventure (14 days), The Road to Vienna (15 days), and The Central European Loop (29 days).