You know you’re in love with a destination when you don’t want to leave – and I’m not, at least not yet. I extended my visit in Croatia simply because my wanderlust sponge couldn’t soak up enough of this Dalmatian-meets-Adriatic paradise. Croatia has long been on my “to-visit” list and I’m thrilled that my first few days in this paradise have been nothing short of endless summer nights filled with the echoes of cicadas until the soulwarming heat lulls me to holiday sleep (the best sleep).
I’m currently writing this piece from my beach mat strategically placed upon one of the many volcanic stone plateaus jetting out of the coastline of Split, Croatia. There is nothing better combination than writing and tan time – a nearly transparent white girl must work on her tan at any opportunity, whether on holiday or on duty. I went into this Romanesque destination with hardly any tangible idea of how truly incredible it would be. I have the pleasure of frolicking through this sapphire of a country for 10 more days, but already absorbed the best things to know before you visit Croatia.
The Currency: Kuna
Though Croatia is a part of the European Union, they still maintain their own currency. Be sure to stock up on plenty of Kuna before heading to this little slice of Adriatic heaven or withdraw from local ATMs – most places won’t accept Euro.
Skip the Pre-Holiday Spray Tan, There is Plenty of Sun
I naturally have strawberry-blonde hair so whenever I “tan”, it’s usually just a dramatic manifestation of a sunburn and freckle party (worst Italian ever). The sun in the Adriatic is different though. If my dermatologist is reading this, please stop immediately. Stock up on plenty of SPF 30, lather it on and enjoy the sun – after a few days, you’re guaranteed to be a beautiful dark bronze that will last into winter.
Bring Water Shoes and Yoga Mats for the Beach
Croatia’s beaches aren’t your typical white sandy paradise but rather a terrain of gorgeous and vibrant stones. Be sure to wear shoes and a yoga mat to protect your skin from any sharp or jagged edges.
Croatian Locals Are Incredibly Warm
Whenever I meet locals I always gently interrogate them on the true life behind the tourist façade. Croatians will not only answer my questions with a smile, but confess to your their entire life stories, advise you where to experience the authentic Croatian lifestyle and offer you a shot (or several) of homebrewed Slivovitz.
Absolutely Rent a Car
There is no other way to discover hidden Croatia then by renting your own car. From waterfalls, Europe’s best beaches and ancient villages more culturally rich than Rome itself, rent a car. You won’t regret it. To access Croatia’s spectacular off-shore islands and coves, simply take advantage of the plethora of ferries and waterway transit.
Choose an Apartment over Hotel
I love a 5-star hotel more than anyone else, but when staying for an extended period of time in any destination, I always opt for an apartment or private villa. The prime reason is because it instantly makes your experience more authentic to local life. The second reason: fitness is a huge part of my lifestyle, so having access to a kitchen to experiment with local ingredients and indulge in homemade al fresco lunches is an absolute must when travelling to a destination for more than four days. Croatia’s apartment offerings are endless – from ancient apartments nestled within 13th century castle walls to more off-the-beaten path retreats where Croatian grandma’s basically cater to your every need, there is a home for you.
Take Advantage of Farmers Markets
The local markets in Croatia – easily the most spectacular I’ve experienced – make it perfectly effortless to maintain a healthy and vibrant diet while in Croatia. The fruit during summer is the most spectacularly ripe and I can’t ever eat enough.
When Eating Out, Aim for “Konoba”
This means local Croatian food! Skip the tourist traps in big squares (the ones that offer the full spectrum of pizza, risotto and pasta) and search for these cozy taverns – they offer culinarily magnificent local dishes such as Punjena Paprika (stuffed peppers) and Brudet (fish stew even non-seafood lovers will swoon over). Be sure to bring cash for the tip – about 99% of establishments won’t be able to compute your tip into credit card machines, and as wonderful as Croatian hospitality is, you’ll want to skip the guilt.
The Sunsets are Worth Your Time
This should be a rule of modern jetsetting regardless of where you are in the world, but everyone deserves a Croatian sunset a few times in their life. Don’t miss it.
