Croatia Travel Guide
Croatia is in the Balklans on the east side of the Adriatic Sea; this situation results in the country having a climate which is perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. Alongside the great stretches of sand and sea, there are also many sites that highlight the country’s history. Croatia is also teeming with cultural spots which enable you to explore and soak up the lifestyles that exist within the country.
Places to Visit
There are a number of areas that allow you to explore and learn about Croatian history. Many towns display the exotic architecture typical of the country; Dubrovnik contains many examples of coastal buildings alongside the rustic lifestyle that used to be prominent through the country. The capital Zagreb is a modern city which is reflected within the urban buildings as well as the cosmopolitan activities which are on offer to the 1 million citizens who live there. Throughout the region there are many vineyards and wine cellars which inhabit the outskirts of cities and allow you to stroll around and sample the wares on offer.
Naturist Areas
Croatia was the first European country to bring in commercial naturist resorts which means that many nudist travellers flock to the country each year. 15% of the country’s tourists being naturists mean that there is plenty on offer for this calibre of traveller. There are over 20 naturist resorts and also ‘free beaches’ which are unofficial nudist beaches. Some of the most popular areas for nudist holiday makers are Pula, Hvar and the island of Rab. These will be marked as FKK in order to display these areas to the non-nudist traveller!
Croatian Cuisine
The great diversity within Croatian cuisine means that there is something suitable for all tastes. In the eastern region, spicy sausage such as Kulen and Kulenova seka are specialities which you must try. The shepherd’s stew Cobanac mixes many meats with spicy paprika for an unusual and exotic meal. In central Croatia, Strukli is a delicacy and is a meal where pasta is combined with cheeses. In the mountainous regions, many meals centre on mushrooms, wild berries and meat which is the produce which can be found within areas such as Lika and Gorski Kotar. If you visit Lika, you may also want to try Polis which is oven baked potato covered with bacon. In coastal regions, many dishes contain the local cheeses and fishes that are delivered from the local fishermen the night before.
Essentials
Whilst there are no essential vaccinations you must take before holidaying in Croatia, there are a few things you may wish to consider whilst away. If you are camping of hiking during the summer months, make sure you are aware of ticks as some contain diseases such as encephalitis and lyme-disease. Moreover in Eastern Slavonia make sure you wear long sleeves and carry insect repellent at all times! Tap water is safe in all areas, yet there are also many bottled waters to try if you are wary.
Croatia is a country that offers its tourists a great holiday regardless of the region they choose to visit. There are many different cuisines which you can taste within the diverse towns and cities. There are also a variety of cosmopolitan areas to enjoy as well as relaxing beach resorts which nable you to daydream away the hours. Moreover Croatia is the home of nudist holiday resorts so is a great retreat for the naturist holidaymaker!
Map of Croatia