Bond Development In Croatia - Making Waves In The International Market

The international capital market has seen Croatia becoming an established issuer of bonds and securities since its début. The first small international bond of US$60 million issued in its local currency -- kunas --was in December 1996 and there was no looking back after that. In February 1997, Croatia issued its first Eurobond in the US dollar sector only after obtaining its first credit rating of Baa3 and BBB, from Moody's, and Standard and Poor's.

The initial Kuna bond, which was targeted at international investors, had a maturity of two years and a 12.5 percent coupon rate with an implying yield of just over 13 percent. This issue was deemed a success as it had a strong demand of currency and credit diversification. Aiming to build a benchmark in company issuance the maturity constituted an extension of the kuna yield curve.

Croatia issued its first dollar bond of a whopping amount of US $300 million in February 1997, which had fixed coupon of 7 percent and had a five year bullet. This led to a three to four times oversubscription offering diversification and bringing a new European name to the market. The lead managers geographically allocated the bonds and about half of the issue was sold in Europe, some 40 percent allocated in the United States and the rest allocated to Asian countries.

Croatia's entry in the international bond market and its debut marked the achievement of a successful macroeconomic stabilization. This led to:

• A solid economic growth rate

• A fiscal position that can be managed

• Reduction in inflation due to its strong currency

An agreement with the creditors of the former socialist republic of Yugoslavia led to a low external debt level with a strong reserve position, the diversity of its production and also its location. Croatia has indeed made a mark with its debut in the international capital market.

Croatia: The best destination of 2006 according to National Geographic Adventure magazine.

The well known American magazine National Geographic Adventure listed Croatia as the best international destination for 2006.
This is the first time that a poll was conducted among the editors, journalists and other associates of this prestige magazine in order to compile and publish a list of international destinations "that you absolutely must visit next year". Croatia is number one on this list with special attention paid to the Kornati islands.

After traveling by kayak 644 kilometers from Zadar to Dubrovnik, adventure journalist Jon Bowermaster recommended the Kornati archipelago as a unique place that must be visited.
"The beauty out here on the islands is ragged and rough, cultivated but untamed" says the author of the article who took up 10 pages of the magazine and enhanced it by beautiful photographs of the Kornati islands, the island of Mljet and other attractions of the Croatian coast and its islands.

Centuries-old cities such as Hvar, Korcula and Dubrovnik are crawling with the young and the rich, calling Croatia the new Riviera or the new Capri.
Tom Cruise, the famous American actor, visited Dubrovnik last year on his yacht. Croatia is already used to famous people such as Prince William or American actor of Croatian background John Malkovich.

Magical Adventures in Croatia

Springs and swallow holes, clear green-hued rivers, a blue sea teeming with life - this wealth of water and underground water courses rank Croatia in fifth place on the European ladder of water reserves, Forests cover almost half of continental Croatia, These forest areas are the fourth-longest in Europe. In lowlands and mountainous forests there are some 170 different natural communities - deciduous, coniferous and mixed, Flood forests, primeval forests, park, forests, juniper thickets and macchia are the specific features of the forest world of Croatia.

In a pleasant climate, with amiable people and experienced guides, you will travel under your own steam through a realm of unfettered nature by kayak, bicycle, raft, under sail; or slowly wend your way through mountain wilderness...

Nestling between the Alps, the Pannonian Plain and the Adriatic Sea, in the south-eastern part of the European continent, Croatia jealously protects eight national parks, ten nature parks and a whole range of special reserves, including plant life, animals, geological formations, hydrological phenomena, all within a small but rich area that can be traveled by car from one end to another in a single day.

Many paths run between rivers, mountain peaks, tiny island ports and beaches, leading to Illyrian hill forts, to Roman ruins, to towns and cities that are themselves monuments, to ethno-entities of popular architecture.

Rafting as a mode of transport up and down waterways also has a long tradition in Croatia. However, white-water rafting as a modern form of adventure began only in the late 1980s and served to attract notice to the amazing beauty of Croatian rivers which, up until that time, was known only to relatively few kayaking adventurers and fishermen. The founders of the Riverfree Club, pioneers of commercial trips through the rivers and experts on the waterways of Croatia, did not anticipate the Subsequent level of interest and the resulting popularity of rafting on rivers which do not abound with savage rapids and high waves. Nevertheless, thousands of people have since enjoyed their close encounters with the unforgettable magic of rivers, of green river banks, sheer canyons and crystal-clear depths. Rivers in the continental parts of the country are flanked by dense forests and by mountains, while those closer to the sea boost broad green banks and deep and shady mysterious canyons. What they all have in common are greenish clear waters that one can see through right down to the river bed. The grade of difficulty of Croatia's white waters is, on average, grade 3; only on the Rivers Dobra and Una can you encounter grade 4 waters.

Croatia Holidays & Diving

The Adriatic's submarine world is a veritable paradise for those who wish to observe o little of the teeming underwater life. Fish and crabs hiding beneath the varied plant world along the rocky shores; shells dug into a sand/ sea bed; a lively, colourful and ever changing world that invites you to dive again and again however long you moy be staying by the sec. With each new dive your eyes are sharper in discovering sea creatures so skilled in hiding themselves from others. Should you want to go deeper and venture further from the shore, an experienced guide will take you to underwater caves, beneath steep cliff faces, among the rocky habitats of fascinating species of fish, shellfish and corals. Sunken galleys, men of war as well as other archaeological finds are in an authentic submarine museum demonstrates the Adriatic's rich and turbulent post, This is the living proof of the wars, adversities, trade and culture of the lands of the Mediterranean. On the surface, the sea is warm and clear, while 30 metres below, the temperature is cooler. There are no large sharks or other predators which would pose a danger to divers, and venomous organisms are rare.

Croatia, Pula, Krk Island And Zadar Are Becoming The Major Holiday Destinations In Europe

Having a holiday/vacation in Croatia is the best cost-benefit way to spend your money wisely. Many people just don't know that Croatians are probably the most friendly people in Europe, and obviously this is the reason why there are so many tourists who come back to Croatia summer after summer. I have been in Croatia just once, but I have to say that people living there are absolutely wonderful. We managed to find an accommodation in Pula (or Pola in Italian and Polei in German) on the second floor of a duplex and I really felt like living in a decadent little roman empire for a little while. I was stunned to know that Pula owns a coliseum of its own!

Also, you can simply have a walk throughout the city and you'll find out that even if Pula is a relatively small city of 62,000 people, all the young people like to hang out with foreign tourists and become your friend. This results in such a great number of people hanging around throughout the city which would make anyone think Pula must be at least a 2 million habitants metropole. Among all the Croatians we have met, we hanged around with a couple in downtown Pula most of the time and we loved having them joining our friends and have some beer together. They also took us to the best restaurants in town.

Other places in Croatia which are among the greatest attractions are Krk Island (pronounced "Kirk" and also called "Isola Veglia" in Italian or "Vegl Insel" in German), Dubrovnik (Ragusa in Italian) and Zadar (Zara in Italian). Some people call Krk "the Croatian Ibiza" because it is probably the best party place in Croatia. It is only reachable by boat, but since it is located at approximately the same distance from Italy, Germany, Austria and Hungary, it is considered a summer meeting point for Central Europeans. Here you could also have the chance to see the most expensive yacht of the entire European Union.

Furthermore, Krk Island is growing as one of the major day summer destinations. On the other hand, Zadar is mostly considered a family resort. However, Zadar has a lot of historical attractions which are worth a visit. This city is also becoming a major retirement region because of its great affordability. That means if you would like to keep living in Europe after retiring, buying a home in Zadar or Croatia is the best investment of a lifetime.

The Elaphite Islands: Croatia's Best-Kept Secret

Accounts vary as to why the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder chose to name the dainty archipelago that lies just off the coast of Dubrovnik after deer (elafos in Greek). One version has it that the assemblage reminded him of a deer’s antlers while another holds that these animals once inhabited the islands. Whatever the reason, the name has stuck, and appropriately too since they retain the beauty and mystery the Romans associated with these graceful animals.

Just three of the islands, Koloèep, Lopud, and Šipan, are still inhabited, each of which can easily be reached by the inexpensive local Jadrolinija ferry that runs four times daily (twice on Sundays) throughout the year from Dubrovnik. All three islands have private accommodation, hotels, and small tourist offices that are open in summer only. Both Koloèep and Lopud are, like the Old City of Dubrovnik, car-free.

A mere twenty five minutes by boat from the mainland, Koloèep, the smallest of the inhabited islands at a mere 2.35 squares kilometres, was once the favored summer home of the Dubrovnik aristocracy (as if living in Dubrovnik itself wasn’t pleasant enough!) Consequently it’s littered with all sorts of ruins, some dating back to Roman times. Much of the island is covered in thick forest with the result that the settlements of Gornje Èelo and Donje Èelo, are crammed into its two largest coves. The clear seas nearby allowed their inhabitants to develop a reputation in past centuries as the Mediterranean’s most renowned coral divers.

The most “developed” of the islands, although the word hardly seems appropriate, Lopud was likewise once a playground of the Dubrovnik nobility. It’s the second largest of the islands at 4.63 square kilometres and forty minutes by boat from Dubrovnik. It features the finest ruins of the three islands – in particular the remains of the Rector’s Palace (which today are preserved as a verdant park) on the outskirts of its sole town and hill-top Franciscan Monastery, whose remains offer wonderful views over the island and its many ruined churches. Lopud’s greatest pleasure is an earthly one, however, which is to be found in Sunj Bay, on the far side of the island, whose calm waters are popular with boaters and whose pleasantly sloping white-sand beach is much beloved by the small number of discerning bathers aware of its presence.

The largest (at 16.5 square kilometres) and wildest of the islands, Šipan contains a wide plain given over to wine and olive groves surrounded by hills, many of them covered in the remnants of ancient churches. There are few better ways to get a sense of how Croatia and indeed the entire Mediterranean once was than by strolling across the valley at the center of the island along road between the settlements of Suðurað and Šipanska Luka. The two towns are 65 minutes and 100 minutes away from Dubrovnik respectively by ferry, although some ferries only stop at Suðurað.

Visiting Zadar - Croatia

Zadar is one of the most beautiful towns in the coastal Croatia. It has this distinctive flavor of the past mixed with contemporary. Placed neatly on small peninsula with shiny and polished stone streets it is somehow built to fit human measures. It is an ancient place, lovely in different seasons. Sacred arts, from architecture to liturgical objects are so rich and plentiful that even in repeated visits you will discover something new. Remnants of the glory of Roman empire with biggest forum on the eastern side of Adriatic, structure of the city, beautiful medieval fortifications, oldest Croatian university, city loggia from 16 century and so much more can be overwhelming. Main gateway in the summer are local beaches. In town itself there are few nice ones - Kolovare, Vitrenjak, Borik.

Nearby are Kozino, Petrcane, Zaton....If one comes by boat there are three marines in short distance one from another. Restaurants offer fresh, healthy, mainly organic food from local country side. If one prefers to cook on his own there is a green market daily supplied with fresh fish, meat and vegetables. It is without a question one of the most beautiful in Croatia. Nested in the middle of the old town with its carnival of colors and scent it is fun to stroll through even without buying. For quick and economic shopping there are big and modern supermarkets and shopping malls with spacious parking lots in the city and it's vicinity. City has many coffee shops to enjoy cafe latte and observe motion and pictures around. During the summer season Musical nights in church of Saint Donatus, Theater Festival and International competition of string instruments and guitar players called strings only are delights to visit. Zadar is very vibrant and interesting but in need of being closer to nature you can do that too. Literally, wherever you turn there is something what nature made breathtaking. Velebit, Vransko lake, Kornati archipelago, island in plenitude ... one day trips, walking, driving, biking, swimming and diving ... these are all open possibilities.

Flowers apartments and Sunny Home make your stay memorable in whatever season you pick. Do not forget that autumn brings prolonged summer, that in winter Mediterranean climate is friendly and nature tranquil, that spring does miracles with soft breezes and fresh leaves and flowers and summer is crescendo of warmth and sun. We are here to make your stay comfortable and relaxed and give you chance to enjoy your time in whole.

Zadar is well connected with the rest of Croatia and Europe. Highway goes from Zagreb and down south via Split. For those traveling with their own or rented vehicle it is easy and relatively inexpensive way to reach Adriatic coast. International airport can take you to any destination, trains and buses come from all directions and ferry lines connect islands with Zadar. Longer ferry lines are good way to visit some other Dalmatian towns or neighboring Italy ( Ancona and/or Pesaro ). Renting a sailing boat is becoming more and more popular and it is another way to explore Croatia from the sea.

Americans Flock To Croatia

Visitors from the USA are expected to flock to Croatia in record numbers this summer as a survey by U.S. Tour Operators revealed the country was tied at second for hottest places to visit this year. Only two years ago 200,000 Americans visited the beautiful country bordering the Adriatic Sea, and this year the Croatians are expecting double that number. So, what do the canny Americans know that us Brits don't?

Most obvious are the financial considerations. With the dollar taking a hammering in the international money markets Americans are finding it increasingly expensive, to the point of prohibitive, to visit their traditional European stomping grounds of the Italy, Greece and the French Riviera. Searching for cheaper alternatives has led Americans to Croatia, eager to establish itself as a top European destination. Outstanding quality food and drink at incredible value combined with the clean water, less-than-crowded beaches and friendly, helpful approach of the locals immediately makes the Croatian Tourist slogan of: "The Mediterranean as it once was" ring true. It also helps their ambition to be big on the European tourist map.

Picking up the pieces from the horrendous four-year conflict that saw the disintegration of Yugoslavia in the mid-1990s, Croatia emerged with a spectacular 1,100-mile coast and almost 2,000 islands. Add the imposing and historic city of Dubrovnik to the mix and you already have the basic ingredients for an enticing country. Inland is found one of the country's biggest tourist attractions: Plitvice Lakes National Park. A series of waterfalls joins 16 beautiful turquoise coloured lakes between the Mala Kapela and Pljesevica Mountains. This gorgeous natural attraction, mixed with the coastal hotspots, the friendly locals and the amazing value all make Croatia one of Europe's great undiscovered destinations. It is easy to see why the Americans are flocking here in their hundreds of thousands; it is the antithesis of their crowded, busy and expensive culture.

To make the most of a trip to Croatia, especially those planning on island hopping or travelling up the stunning coast will find that car hire is not essential as the country is well-served by buses and ferries. However, those who prefer to drive, like most things in the country, will find incredibly cheap car hire in Croatia. Most major airlines operate directly to Split which is centrally located on the Adriatic coastline, and also has one of the highest concentration of car rental offices in Croatia.

Tips for Smart Road Travel in Croatia

Croatia has not exactly been on the top of the charts when it comes to the world's best tourist destinations. But for people who want to enjoy natural beauty that is untainted by excessive commercialization, Croatia is fast picking up as a popular holiday spot.

Easy accessibility and the operation of low cost airlines like Ryan Air to this area have further encouraged tourist traffic to Croatia. However, since most of us are not too well aware about Croatia and its infrastructural facilities, travel and stay are major considerations for people visiting this country either for pleasure or on business. But thanks to a number of internet based companies that offer transportation in the form of taxi services and airport transfers, you can easily take care of all your conveyance needs even before you leave for Croatia. While choosing a taxi service in Croatia, keep the points mentioned below in mind if you want to take care of your travel needs both efficiently and economically:

If you want to engage a taxi in Croatia, then make sure that you do it with a web based service. There are a number of professional taxi services that let you book airport transfers or taxis in Croatia online. This way, you can land in Croatia without worrying about how you will get to your hotel or to another nearby city or destination from the airport. Booking online is especially helpful during tourist season when local taxis are both unavailable and expensive. In case you do not want to book a car for yourself, then you can book your seat on an airport shuttle or airport transfer minibus that will pick you up from the airport on your arrival and deliver you to your destination without your having to shell out megabucks since you can share the cost with other co-passengers.

Whenever you book someone for your airport transfers, it is a good idea to ensure that the drivers of your taxi in Croatia speak English and are well versed with all the roads that you might have to travel on. Most of the best taxi services in Croatia will assign you drivers who can take you wherever you want and provide you with all the information you need. Since no one will ever charge you extra for an English speaking driver, specify that you want one while booking with your taxi service. Apart from this, go for a service that does not charge you anything extra if your flight gets delayed. Also make sure that you know the rates you will be paying for each and every service rendered instead of getting unpleasantly shocked on seeing the bill.

If you are traveling with a group or with your family, then you can book yourself on a minibus or an airport shuttle service in Croatia with one of the online taxi companies. This would not only ensure that you find reliable and assured transportation when you land at the airport in Croatia, but it will also let you get the best prices possible. If you are traveling to Croatia with your family or if you are going there for the first time, then you should definitely book your taxi or airport shuttle service through the internet or on the phone a couple of days before landing there. It is also a good idea to call up or email your airport shuttle or taxi service right before you board your plane in order to remind them once again about your arrival.

Euroskates 2008

Zagreb and Croatia have gladly accepted the duty of hosting the European Figure Skating Championships under the honorary patronage of the President of the Republic of Croatia, Mr. Stjepan Mesić. Zagreb is a city with a long tradition in organizing important athletic events and figure skating has 130 years of history as an organized sport in our country. During the duration of the Championships Zagreb will host over 150 skaters from 41 countries.

The first European Figure Skating Championships held in Zagreb took place in 1974. Organized by our sport workers and enthusiasts, it was a success and Zagreb was given the honor to organize it again in 1979. The year 2008 marks the third occasion that the city of Zagreb will organize the European Figure Skating Championships.

Zagreb Cathedral

Zagreb Cathedral on Kaptol is probably the most famous building in Zagreb, as its spires can be seen from many locations in the city. At the end of the 15th century, the Turks invaded Bosnia and Croatia, triggering the construction of a renaissance fortification wall around the cathedral. Few of these fortifications are still intact. In the 17th century, a fortified renaissance watchtower was erected on the south side, and was used as a military observation point, because of the Turkish threat.

In 1880, the cathedral was severely damaged in an earthquake. The main nave collapsed and the tower was damaged beyond repair. The restoration of the cathedral in the neogothic style was made by Hermann Bollé, bringing the cathedral to its present form. As part of that restoration, two spires of 105 m height were raised on the western side, both of which are in the process of being restored during a massive general restoration of the cathedral.

Croatian Nature Parks

Croatia is a country situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, central Europe and balkans. Croatia is surrounded by ten nature parks which are popular for their historical, cultural and ecological characteristics. In this article you will find a brief introduction about some of the famous nature parks of Croatia.
Lonjsko polje is one of the beautiful parks of Croatia.This park is one of the retention basins of Sava river and it runs along the Lonja river.Because of it`s flora and fauna it is one of the well known part of croatia. Lonjsko is also famous for some rare birds species like white tailed eagle and short toed eagle.
Medvednica is a mountain which is situated very close to Zagreb,the capital of croatia.Medvednica is a famous destination for hikers,tourists and travellers.This mountain is popular for it`s surroundings and skiing trips.
Telascica is ten kilometers long bay which is situated on th south side of Dugi otok which is an island of adriatic sea.Telassica is famous for it`s mediterranean vegetation as well as for beautiful pine trees.
Velebit is a largest croatian mountain bounded with adriatic sea from one side and green fields from another.This mountain is famous for it`s beautiful vegetation.
Zumberak is a hill station near the capital city of Croatia.This hilly area is famous for chest nut forests and various caves.
Papuk is a mountain situated in north eastern region of Croatia. Papuk is also a popular destination for hikers and walkers.

Visiting Samobor-Croatia

Samobor is the center of the one of the most developed parts of Croatia. It is a colorful and picturesque town obviously inhabited from prehistoric times according to the finds in the vicinity. Samobor has a tradition of tourism from 19 Th century when it was already a favorite spot for inhabitants of Zagreb. Nature around is beautiful, restaurants and inns offer local and international culinary hits and town has a cozy charm. Samobor is situated on breathtaking entrance to the romantic valley on stream Gradna. Samoborsko Gorje and numerous mountains (Plesivica, Zumberak, Japetic and so on) shelter this Baroque town.

Town itself has a long and diverse history. From preroman times to middle ages when it became a market town with a charter and a privilege from Croatian Hungarian king. Copper mines in Rude near Samobor were opened sometime in 14 Th century and with them started development of metalworking crafts.

In Napoleonic times samobor was headquarters of Napoleon Illyrian provinces. This is the time when local drink Bermet started being produced. Names Bermet and Vermouth are close and so are the tastes... although not the same. So here it is a centuries old local version of Vermouth and delicious one it is. In 19 Th century town blossomed. It culminated with 1901 opening of Samoborcek. Local train that operated till late 1970es.

Burg above the town is in ruins today. It changed many hands with passage of time. It is a place to visit if nothing else for stunning view of town and its area.
Center of town is square named after Croatian king Tomislav. It is lovely accentuated with interesting buildings and with summer coffee shops, outside tables and parasols it looks like big and comfortable leaving room. each building is very special and unique.

So many things got transformed in time and of some only old name remains. Old pig market was transformed into promenade, Art nouveau building on the main square used to be famous coffee shop, bridge on central square from 1906 used to be last word of technology and craftsmanship when it was built. It was second largest of its kind in its time and of all places in Samobor.
Museum of Samobor is in Livadic mansion. Museum is structured around several diverse collections. Plan and program is to show past of Samobor and its region through centuries. They posses large collection of town panoramas and portraits.

Part of Franciscan cloister is Baroque church of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary. It has beautiful baroque altars and is known for illusionist style composition of the Ascension.
On Tepec hill is baroque chapel of St Anna, patron saint of Samobor. Promenade Anindol is considered to be the most beautiful one. On the bottom of the same hill there is a sports and recreational center Vugrinscak.

Manor houses, parish churches are placed around samobor, here and there so tourist can be positive that in every direction there is something to be seen and rediscovered. Rude, known for its copper mines are today beginning for hiking tours. For nature lovers Grgos caves are absolute attraction. Filled with stalactites and stalagmites they proudly represent the most beautiful caves in Northwestern Croatia.

Very interesting cave system can be seen in Vilinske jame, Grdanjci.
South of Samobor is Okic. Medieval burg situated on the top of the hill sits there from 12 Th century and can be valuable part of any outing around Samobor.

Samoborsko gorje is considered to be cradle of Croatian hiking. For over 150 year people from Zagreb, Jastrebarsko and Samobor made it a destination for their trips and excursions. In central part of Samoborsko gorje trails are well marked and mainly equipped with mountain huts or lodges(Ostrc, Veliki Dol and Soic house in Lipovac)

Eastern parts are much more enjoyable for hunters and sports fishermen.
For urban people eco village in Kalje is breath of fresh air. Domestic animals can be observed in the local farm, horse back riding is an option as well as an ordinary picnic or just strolling around.
If one is not in Samobor for almost 200 year traditional carnival celebration, Trout day, Chestnut festival or St Martins day with blessing of new wine any day is good occasion to go there and taste custard slices.

Special trip to Samobor can be made only for and because of the food. Venison, trout, garlic sausages and more are rewarding enough to just drive from Zagreb or any other near location and get a delicious meal.

Island Hopping In Croatia - Experience The Culture

With over a thousand islands spread around the Adriatic Sea, there is so much to experience. The best way to see what Croatia has to offer is by island hopping across the amazing Island that you will find upon your arrival. As well as the islands, there are many exciting cities to explore and with Croatia being divided into 21 counties, you have a selection of places to choose from.

Some of the largest islands include the Brijuni Islands and Kornati archipelago which are national parks and it has an international airport. The largest island by area is Cres and is one of the northern islands and is a must see if you visit Croatia as it has beautiful scenery and blue waters is great for families. The Croatian Islands are great to visit and offers a different view of Croatian life; they are tranquil and are ideal for families looking for a fantastic holiday.

When visiting various countries, many people tend to only go to the large cities and the capital. When travelling to Croatia, you should aim to see as much as you can because all cities and towns vary in their offering to visitors. The capital, Zagreb, is the largest city in the country and has over a million inhabitants and has become modernised recently and most of the Croatian trade is centered in Zagreb.

If you prefer your historic cities then Dubrovnik has to be on your list of places to see. The city is one of six cities in the country that has been included in the UNESCO list of world heritage sites and it an extremely interesting place to visit. Dubrovnik hosts many arts, musical and theatre events each year and is a hot-spot for tourists; the Dubrovnik Summer Festival is superb event which lasts for an entire month with many artists entertaining the public with varying concerts and plays. The city has an international airport of its own and is approximately 20km from the city centre, car hire is available from the airport as well as buses which take tourists from the airport to the centre.
With a wide range of activities to do, Croatia offers a different type of holiday then you are used to. Cities such as Dubrovnik, Zagreb and the Croatian Islands are a must see whilst travelling around, and the best way to do with minimal hassle is; car hire and is easy to obtain by shopping online.

Suggested Croatia Itineraries And When To Go

Your itinerary will differ according to your interests, when you travel and mainly how much time you have at your disposal. Before you plan a tour that includes boat travel, I sincerely suggest you to check the latest available Jadrolinija (Croatian ferry company) schedule to be sure that there is a boat to the destination you want to go. Keep in mind that there are two schedules, the winter and summer and they can vary to certain destinations. ( For example: Hvar island (Stari Grad) has five times ferry a day connections to Split in summer period, while during the winter period, only three times a day)

The Costal Route Due to the fact that Croatia has a spectacular 1.104 miles coastline and 1185 islands , I suggest to chose the boat as the best way to explore Croatia coast. Your costal route can start from Rijeka all the way to Dubrovnik, stopping at the many islands and cities. This is one of the greatest journeys in Central Europe. Take advantage of Jadrolinija ferries to stop on the way to Dubrovnik to different cities and small fishermen villages.

If you happened to land to Zagreb, spend few days there visiting museums and the historic old town, than head to the coast (There are excellent bus connections to the coast). Before leaving for your cruises to Dalmatian coast, stop to Istria , maybe Rovinj and Porec. On the way to south parth of the Adriatic coast, your boat may stop to Dugi Otok (Long island) before arriving to Zadar, where you can spend few days visiting islands like Pag or small picturesque island Ugljan. Proceed to Split where you should spend couple of days visiting Diocletian's emperor Split town. From there with very frequent ferry boats (keep in mind of the season) visit islands Brac (Bol) and Hvar (Hvar and Stari Grad towns). Don't forget to visit nearby historic Trogir, only half an hour bus drive from Split.

You can continue your journey from Hvar, without returning to Split to Korcula island, visiting this small town, often called (small Dubrovnik). From there next day, proceed to Dubrovnik your inevitable destination, which will put the finishing touch to your Croatia's journey.

Planning when to go

April to September is a great time to visit Croatia. The sea temperature in April is not suitable for swimming but you will enjoy warm and clear skies south of Split and specially on Hvar and Korcula islands. Accommodation prices are low but don't forget that many hotels and camps will be still closed.

May and June are the great months to enjoy Croatia. These months are excellent for all kinds of outdoor activities. Italian and German tourists have yet to arrive, prices are still reasonable and most of the hotels, hostels and camps are opened.

July and August are the most expensive months to visit Croatia The places like Krk, Istria, Rab, Bol, Hvar, Korcula and Dubrovnik can become unpleasantly crowded. The advantage of these months, considered "high season" are the additional boat lines that gives you possibility to visit other small places and islands, far from those over crowded destinations.

I personally consider September the best month to explore Croatia. It's not so hot, the prices are at least 30 % lower and the crowds are almost finished as children return to school. This is the month of fruits like figs and grapes. October is sometimes too cool for camping but the weather could be still pleasant for cruising and the private rooms are available everywhere and reasonably priced.

I hope this short Croatia's itinerary map will be at least of some help for all those visitors setting up vacations in Croatia (Hrvatska) this or years to come.

Croatia Casinos

Croatia's shoreline stretches for approximately 5,835 km, but that is not the only reason Croatia has experienced a growing number of tourists with each passing year. Croatia has one of the best summer resorts and entertainments that Europe can boast of, at exceptional prices but with all the amenities and fringes one can hope to experience.

Croatia casinos are all over the country each one trying to be better than the other through unique settings and attractive packages. Some Croatian casinos are situated in the complex of a hotel, which is preferred by those who like to spend the whole night at the gambling tables looking for lady luck. Las Vegas Croatia casinos is a famous group, which boasts of a number of them all around the Istria region. At any one of these casinos you can find your favorite games such as, black jack, roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker and the always popular slot machines.

Croatia is beautiful wherever you go however, some resorts are more popular than the others but Dubrovnik is a must visit on anyone's list; with sights that take your breath away Dubrovnik also offers exquisite gambling delights in luxurious casinos hosted in historical buildings from another era.

Zagreb is yet another tourist favorite but not only, as locals love their capital and are proud to be able to boast some architecture and monuments that are centuries and centuries old. Amongst history and time you will also get the chance to try your lucky hand in several different casinos in Zagreb as well.

Croatia casinos only allow those of aged 18 years and above to gamble, as well as drinking any alcoholic beverages. Most casinos will require verification of your age through photo identification. House rule may differ from casino to casino therefore, it is best you go through them in order to avoid any surprises. Most Croatian casinos are open from early afternoon to the wee hours of the morning but are entitled to ask any guest to leave should he or she be disturbing other guests.

In order to get the best bargain on your stay in Croatia check online for different packages available each season or contact your local travel agent. If you are already in Europe you can drive or take a train and see the beautiful country in the process as well. You can stop and enjoy each city as you make your way to your destination as well as try your luck at the local casinos found along the way.

Accession of Croatia to the European Union

Croatia applied for European Union membership in 2003, and the European Commission recommended making it an official candidate in early 2004. Candidate country status was granted to Croatia by the European Council (the EU's heads of government) in mid-2004. The entry negotiations, while originally set for March 2005, began in October that year, also launching the screening process. Croatia is expected to finally join in 2010 or 2011.

After Slovenia, Croatia has recovered best from the break-up of the former Yugoslavia and so hopes to become the second former Yugoslav state to become a member. It has a stable market economy and it is ahead of EU member states Bulgaria and Romania in some economic indicators such as GDP per capita.

Croatia's membership bid has been made possible due to the reinforcement of the country's institutions, electoral reform, increases in funding for the country's Constitutional Court and Ombudsman, and improvements in minority rights and the return and integration of refugees, which facilitated the closure of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe's Croatian Mission in late 2007.

Weather and Climate in Croatia

Weather: Due to its mild climate, we recommend visits to Croatia throughout the whole year.
The average temperature along the coast is from 5 do 10 °C during winter, and from 26 do 30 °C during summer, with approximately 2700 sunshine hours per year.
The temperature of the sea ranges from 12 °C in February to 25 °C in August.
Summer months are mostly characterized by beautiful and stable weather.

Climate: Northern Croatia has a continental climate;central Croatia has a mountain climate of variable intensity. The wintertemperatures range from -1 °C to - 30 °C in the mountain zone, from 0 °C to 5 °Cin the continental area and from 5 °C to 10 °C on the coast. The summertemperatures range from 22 °C to 26 °C in the continental part of the country,from 15 °C to 20 °C in the mountain area and from 26 °C to 30 °C on the coast.

Travel to Croatia: Cheap Flights, Ferries, and Buses to Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Split, and Istria

Croatia's Dalmatian coast has become one of Europe's most exciting destinations but getting there can be tricky. If you're coming from outside Europe, be aware that there are no direct flights from North America to Croatia. You'll need to make a stop in another European city for a flight to Croatia. Fortunately there are more and more routes opening up. If you're coming from Italy however, the best bet is usually to take a ferry to Croatia. That's what most Italians do which is why there are more ferries than flights from Italy to Croatia.

In travelling to Croatia, there are four main entry points: Dubrovnik, Istria, Split and Zagreb. Let's take them in order.

Travel to Dubrobnik

It's Croatia's most beautiful spot and well connected by flight, ferry and train. Taking a flight to Dubrovnik is easier between March and October when the season begins to gear up but you'll find connections from London to Dubrovnik three times a week all year. To get to Dubrovnik from Italy, your only choice is Jadrolinija's Bari to Dubrovnik ferry which runs all year but more often in summer. There are buses to Dubrovnik from most other Croatian cities that run frequently and efficiently.

Travel to Istria

The main entry points in Istria are Umag, Rovinj, Porec, Pula and Rabac which are all connected by ferries to Italy but only in the summer season. In addition, there are buses to Pula from Venice and to Rovinj and Porec from Trieste. Pula airport has non-stop flights in the summer from Manchester, London, Edinburg and Glasgow.

Travel to Split

Split is situated in the middle of the Dalmatian coast and makes an excellent entry point. There are non-stop flights to Split from London, Cologne, Frankfurt, Munich, Prague and Rome. If you're coming from Italy, you'll find frequent ferries all year from Ancona and less frequent ferries from Pescara. In the summer, there's a highly convenient overnight ferry that runs from Venice to Split. Split is connected by bus with most other Croatian cities as well as Ljubljana, Mostar and Sarajevo.

Travel to Zagreb

Zagreb is Croatia's capital and connected to most other European capitals by Croatia Airlines. The cheapest way to Zagreb from the UK is by Wizzair which just opened a new service from London to Zagreb. Other low-cost carriers include SNBrussels which has flights from Brussels and Germanwings which has cheap flights from Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg and Stuttgart. There are buses to Zagreb from other Balkan cities but the train is most convenient if you're coming from Ljubljana, Venice, Budapest or Vienna.

Croatian Recipes and Cuisine

Croatian cuisine is sometimes known as "the cuisine of regions", since each part of Croatia has its own distinct culinary traditions, and influences from its neighbors. The cookery of coastal regions shows influences from Roman, Illyrian and Greek cuisine, Italian cuisine, and even French cuisine, whereas inland areas get their influences from Viennese and Austrian cuisine, Hungarian cuisine and Turkish cuisine.

Some popular Croatian dishes include:

- Juha od Mahuna - A vegetable soup made from green beans, as well as carrots, lentils, onions and peas.

- Brudet - Fish stew, served with polenta (boiled cornmeal)

- Gulaš - A spicy beef stew, similar to Hungarian cuisine's gulyás (goulash).

- Slavonski Cobanac - Lamb stew originally from Slavonia.

- Istrian stew (Croatian: Istarska jota) - A stew made with bacon, spare ribs, beans, potatoes and sauerkraut, seasoned with garlic.

- Pašticada - A stewed beef dish, originally from Dalmatia (and sometimes known as "Dalmatinska pašticada"). Served with gnocchi (dumplings) or wide noodles.

- Sataraš - Minced and roasted vegetables, especially bell peppers.

- Sarma - Sauerkraut rolls with ground (minced) pork and rice.

- Zagrebacki odrezak - Originally from Croatia's capital, Zagreb, this dish consists of thin slices of chicken or veal stuffed with ham and cheese and then sautéed.

- Ðuvec - Stewed vegetables, similar to ratatouille.

- Kulen - Spicy pork sausage, originally from Slavonia.

- Cešnovka - Another variety of spicy pork sausage. Cešnovka has a garlic taste, and originates from the Turopolje region.

- Strukli - A type of ravioli, originally from Zagreb. Strukli normally contains either cheese or apple. In northern parts of the country, they are usually eaten during the Christmas period, with compotes of dried fruits (apples, pears, prunes, etc.).

- Palacinke - Crêpes with sweet fillings.

- Krafne - A type of doughnut (without a hole though). Krafne are usually filled with chocolate, cream, custard or jelly (jam).

- Rožata - A custard pudding, similar to flan.

- Cupavci - A biscuit-like cake which is cut into squares, and then covered with chocolate and dessicated coconut.

- Strudel (Croatian: Savijaca, Strudla) - - The Croatian version of strudel, filled with apple or cheese.

Health

We recommend you make sure you are covered for health care at all times in Croatia. This section provides information on the Croatian health system, Croatian doctors, hospitals and medical treatment. Things may not work the same way as at home - get informed in case you get ill.

Emergencies

Emergency telephone numbers in Croatia

In case of an emergency, don't worry about insurance issues and head directly to the nearest hospital or doctor.

The following telephone numbers may be useful in case of an emergency:

Police	92
Fire Brigade	93
First Aid Ambulance	94