“Dobar Dan!” (“Hello” in Croatian)
Croatia has rapidly become one of Europe’s most trendy places to visit. However, it still doesn’t feel like a tourist country. It’s come a long way since it’s long fight for independence in the 1990s. If there's an upside to the constant transition, it's in the rich culture footprint that each government has left behind. Venetian palazzos can be seen near Napoleonic forts, Roman columns, early Slavic churches, and Viennese mansions can be found near Socialist Realist sculptures. Croatia’s coast has something for everyone, whether you dream of sunbathing on Zlatni Rat beach, partying in uber trendy and glamorous Hvar Town or relaxing in the natural terrain on the island of Mljet. For the history buff, Croatia offers historical landmarks such as Dubrovnik’s Old Town or Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, where the imposing Roman ruins have been repurposed into a bustling area for day and nightlife.
Although Croatia has steadily become commercialized and booming in some cities, their cuisine, wine, and natural beauty offers so much more than the cliché tourist boom. Luckily, the locals of Croatia feel the same, and restrict the tourist industry by focusing more on local businesses, delicacies, and all Croatia has to offer.
Whether you’ve come to backpack cross-country, surf the beaches, drink a cocktail on the sand, hike the waterfalls, or see some of the architecture, Croatia has a little something for everyone. Croatia’s gorgeous beaches, rocky shores, islands, and several National Parks make every picture a potential postcard perfect shot. With over 1,200 islands, turquoise waters, and villages that step out of a fairy tale, it’s easy to see why Croatia’s tourism is rapidly growing year after year. Away from the coast you can explore the oasis of Plitvice Lakes, hike and climb in the dramatic mountains of Paklenica or spot rare exotic birds and wildlife at Kopački Rit wetlands. It’s also a land of vineyards, with more than 300 geographically defined wine districts. Known for it’s “niche festivals”, Croatia’s tourism offers a unique opportunity to live like a local. These festivals are often featured in random places (think art festivals on the beach, culinary festivals in an abandoned warehouse, or small town music festivals).
If you’re looking for some city life and nightlife, Croatia has that available too. From swanky hotels, fancy cocktails, and urban dance floors, Croatia has an appeal for any taste. Speaking of taste, Croatia’s restaurant culture is as diverse as the country itself. Though Croats traditionally see themselves as a Western country with its close proximity to Italy, many of the landmarks and food staples in Croatia resemble Balkan culture. Croatia offers fresh seafood from the Adriatic Sea, homemade delicacies such as olive oil, wine, cheese, and don’t forget sampling rakia!
There is so much to do and so much to see. We can’t wait until you’re here and have the experience of a lifetime!
