is a country with exceptional natural beauty, a rich culture and tradition as well as ecological preserved regions. The Mediterranean coast has a length of 1800 km and presents with its subtropical vegetation and the steel blue water against the background of the mountain chains a breathtaking panorama. 1185 offshore islands invite to charming excursions. Especially the Island Korcula is a must if you are in this region. Korcula is a charming city on the island of the same name and is also called the "little sister of Dubrovnik", as both cities are very much alike because of their common Venice past.

Cultural Features

To learn more about country and people we joined an organized tour through the country and enjoyed experiencing the genuine atmosphere of a village, where inhabitants of a typical country home gave us a warm welcome with self-made brandy and dried figs. The cosy atmosphere, traditional music and dances and domestic food specialities like smoked ham, which we grilled ourselves in open fire skewered on rods of laurel, made this evening unforgettable

A special event for us was an evening with the traditional art ensemble "Lindo Dubrovnik" They gave an open air performance with traditional dances and music played on traditional instruments right against the background of the historic old town.. As the Croatian culture is of Slav origin the music and dances are very vivacious and the costumes splendid and colourful. We really were enthusiastic about this exciting entertainment and the audience thanked with standing ovations for an excellent and exciting performance.
In the old town during summertime take place music festivals and demanding concerts with prominent performers.

History

In the course of its turbulent history Croatia, respectively parts of it, was ever again occupied by foreign rulers. Before the establishment of the first kingdom, that existed from 925 - 1102 the Romans ruled the country. Afterwards followed the Hungarians, Ottomans, Venetia, Austria and finally Serbia within the Yugoslavian Federation. Since 2000, Croatia has been a parliamentary democracy and in July 2013 the country became a Member of the EU.

This country suffered for years from the aftermath of the war for independence against Yugoslavia, thus the living standard of the people, especially in the country, is still a bit poor. The tourism is the main source of income and the Croatians very sucessfully do their very best to make vacation for their guests most enjoyable and unforgettable beautiful.