Before embarking on a trip, it is essential and wise to get familiar with the destination you’re heading to especially on foreign lands. Like many other European countries, Croatia remains also a favorite travel destination by most American tourists in general. What are the things you need to know all about the Republic of Croatia? Here are some of the relevant information and stuff that will come in handy to further plan ahead for the next adventure.
General Knowledge
Bounded within the countries of Hungary, Slovenia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, the Republic of Croatia is a developed country of Mediterranean, partly continental climate and consisted of mountainous and vast forested land areas. Croatia is also facing the Adriatic Sea and is geographically divided into four (4) historical regions and twenty (20) counties which are further subdivided into cities and municipalities. The largest, densely-populated city is Zagreb which is also the republic’s capital.
Language and Demographics
Croatian is the official language which majority of its nationals spoke. The republic has high literacy rate and is home to almost five (5) million people who are predominantly Roman Catholics.
Travel and Time Zone
Valid US passport holders can enter anytime at Croatia visa-free for a period not more than three (3) months. In most cases and purposes, the best time to visit Croatia is in late spring or early autumn. Croatia is generally safe for travel as within Europe and North America wherein street crimes are relatively low whereas violent crimes are rare. Croatia is on CET, six (6) hours more than New York and nine (9) hours ahead of California.
Currency and Economy
A high-income country and form part of the euro zone nations, Croatia still uses the Kuna as its official legal tender. A dollar is valued almost seven Kuna in the current exchange rates. Most businesses as well as banks, tourist offices and other public services open by 8am but grocery stores and markets open as early as 6am. Restaurants usually open from noon to midnight and mostly close on Sundays.
What to do and Where to Go
Several attractions and works of art littered the sprawling counties from Midwest to Southernmost. Luxurious hotels and fine-dining restaurants are clustered in Zagreb and Dubrovnik. Croatia is also a great arena for active travelers and nature lovers. One can get in love with the sights of Renaissance architecture in Dubrovnik, clay-topped houses in Korcula town and Italian-inspired look of Rovinj. Explore the great wonders and indulge a momentary elation in Mljet Island, Brac Island or at the serene Brela beach. Simply retreat from the typical bustle of the metropolis at Plitrice Lake National Park. Indeed, there are a plethora of activities that would surely fulfill the craving at your heart’s content – trekking, river cruise, beach outing, day tours and night-life entertainment.
Other Important Reminders and Notes
It is recommended to plan beforehand your trip, reserve accommodations in advance and confirm ahead the itineraries to Croatia during peak seasons starting mid-July to end of August. When traveling solo, be cautious and street smart – choose smaller pensions and casual restaurants, avoid deserted areas and rather take an organized day trips. Keep an eye on your belongings in public places. Smoking is forbidden in public transportation and most enclosed spaces. Before boarding a flight in Croatia, take out literally all batteries from your luggage.
So, everything’s noted. All set. Let’s fly away to the Croatian land. Bon voyage!