During a family trip to Croatia in 2019, I had the chance to visit the hometown of my great-great-grandparents, and it was there that I truly fell in love with the country. One of the highlights of the journey was our stop on the island of Hvar, renowned for its breathtaking lavender fields. As we walked among the vibrant blooms, their delicate fragrance seemed to capture the essence of Croatia’s beauty. Even now, the scent of lavender instantly transports me back to that magical moment and reminds me of my connection to my Croatian heritage—a bond that feels as timeless as the lavender fields themselves.