Where are you?  Croatia!

If all you remember about this majestic strip of land once known as a part of Yugoslavia is its war in the 1990s when it declared itself independent from Yugoslavia, it’s time you took another look at one of the most magnificent countries rimming the Adriatic. 

Inhabited since the Stone Age, Croatia’s land has been occupied by everyone from the Greeks, Illyrians, the Celts, the Romans and even the Huns.  It wasn’t until the 7th century AD that the Slavs settled and their “modern” history began. 

If you fast-forward in the history of this tumultuous piece of geography, you will find that 2009 brings Croatia staring at a future of peace and economic prosperity, and in line to become a member of the EU. Only a territorial claim by Croatia over a Slovenian shipping route stands in the way.  Both countries expect to resolve the situation shortly.

The Adriatic Sea is the hub of Croatian life, and the medieval walled cities that overlook its shores attest to the importance of the land.  But it is the water itself that makes one pause.  It is clear.  Crystal clear.  And the tiny coves and lazy harbors climbing up the coastal line all carry the reflection of the turquoise waters. 

Out to sea sit over 1,000 islands, all accessible by boat and inviting you for an afternoon picnic.  Even the noted oceanographer, Jacques Cousteau, described the waters off Croatia as the cleanest and clearest in the world. 

Traveling inland, Croatia takes on a different landscape as you cross plains that gently slope upward becoming, at first, rolling hills, and later densely wooded mountains.  Fresh water lakes dot a myriad of national parks, where walking paths are sprinkled by the dew from waterfalls.  UNESCO has deemed the Plitvice Lakes National Park a Preserved Wonder.

Directly across the Adriatic from Italy and abutting the south of Europe, Croatia is a launching pad for drives to Hungary, Austria, Italy and Greece.  It is an amalgam of all that the European Continental influences contribute in addition to its Eastern heritage. Culture is at the core of Croatian life, and you will find that the cost of accessing all the wonders of this coastal nation cost much less than life lived in nearby countries.

Having always been a tourist destination has prepared Croatians to be friendly and welcoming.  Most speak English as a result of the tourism and they go out of their way to embrace newcomers.  Opera is a big favorite of Croatians and museums featuring artifacts from the different ages add to the cultural heritage of the area. 

Beachfront property is still inexpensive in Croatia. However, don’t think about shopping in the summer high season when the towns along the coast and inland explode with tourists.  Visit in the spring or fall, when life is lived in a rhythm punctuated by sun, fresh fish, fruit and vegetables, and a stroll along any of the harbors.  It all rings back to the intense history that dominates the life of Croatians.

The infrastructure of Croatia is up to date, and includes high-speed internet access. 

Apartments overlooking one of the many harbors can be obtained for less than $50,000 U.S., and newly constructed homes featuring the amenities appreciated by westerners are also available, for a higher price of course! 

But before you look for modern conveniences, take a drive to one of the many medieval hilltop villages and savor life in the slow lane.  You may find that living “above it all” is all the excitement you’ll need!

               Vidimo se u Hrvatskoj!