Croatia | Breadcrumbs

GUATEMALA

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VALUTA

TAAL

HOOFDSTAD

Verscholen in het hart van Midden-Amerika, zal dit land je meenemen door oude jungles die ooit de grootste Mayabeschavingen herbergden. Hoewel de Spaanse veroveraars hun stempel op dit land hebben achtergelaten, heeft de interessante geschiedenis en mix van gebruiken een rijke en kleurrijke cultuur gecreëerd. Het is niet alleen de natuurlijke en historische wonderen die Guatemala echt bijzonder maken; het is de warmte en gastvrijheid van zijn mensen die een onuitwisbare indruk op je hart zullen achterlaten. Vanaf het moment dat je voet zet in dit betoverende land, word je ondergedompeld in een symfonie van tradities, gebruiken en vieringen die van generatie op generatie zijn doorgegeven.

ALLES WAT JE WILT WETEN

GENERALLY SAFE? YES

Volgens de Global Safety Index is Guatemala geen veilig land om te bezoeken. Reizigers denken er echter anders over en het afgelopen jaar zijn er veel solo (vrouwelijke) reizigers naar het land gekomen. Websites van de overheid zullen je waarschijnlijk bang maken, omdat ze zeer lugubere zaken beschrijven. Ik heb zelf geen enkel moment meegemaakt waarop ik me onveilig voelde en heb ook niets van anderen gehoord. Overweeg wel om de standaardroute te volgen, want de toeristische gebieden zijn meestal veiliger.

Wat natuurrampen betreft: Guatemala ligt in een seismisch actieve regio en is gevoelig voor aardbevingen en vulkaanuitbarstingen. Het is belangrijk om voorbereid te zijn op dit soort gebeurtenissen en de richtlijnen van de lokale autoriteiten te volgen als je je in een getroffen gebied bevindt.

Zakkenrollerij en kleine diefstallen komen relatief vaak voor in Guatemala, vooral in drukke gebieden zoals markten en toeristische attracties. Het is een goed idee om op je bezittingen te letten en geen grote hoeveelheden contant geld of waardevolle spullen bij je te dragen.

De grensgebieden zijn onstabieler dan de rest van het land en er zijn zelfs vulkanen die je beter niet kunt beklimmen zonder gids om te voorkomen dat je wordt beroofd. Vraag bij je accommodatie na wat ze je aanraden en houd het lokale nieuws in de gaten. Bovendien zijn chickenbussen erg goedkoop, maar ook erg onveilig als je langere afstanden aflegt. Volgens de lokale bevolking springen "bandieten" in deze bussen om je onder bedreiging met een pistool te beroven. We kregen te horen dat we deze bussen niet moesten nemen en iets meer moesten uitgeven aan andere vormen van vervoer.

Over het algemeen is Guatemala een vriendelijk en gastvrij land en de overgrote meerderheid van de bezoekers ondervindt geen problemen tijdens hun verblijf. Het is altijd een goed idee om waakzaam te zijn en voorzorgsmaatregelen te nemen die getuigen van gezond verstand, zoals 's nachts niet alleen lopen in onbekende gebieden en je bewust zijn van je omgeving.

CROATIAN

The official language of Croatia is Croatian. Croatian is a South Slavic language and is the most widely spoken language in the country. It uses the Latin script, and its vocabulary and grammar are similar to other Slavic languages like Serbian and Bosnian.

In addition to Croatian, many Croatians, especially in urban areas and in the tourism industry, also speak English, often as a second language. English is commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and for tourist-related services.

German and Italian are also spoken by some Croatians, particularly in areas where there are significant populations of people with roots in those countries. In Istria, for example, Italian is widely spoken alongside Croatian.

TRANSPORTATION

Croatia offers various transportation options, each with its advantages:

Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular choice for travelers who want to explore different regions of Croatia at their own pace. It provides flexibility and access to more remote or less touristy areas. Croatia has a well-maintained road network. However, during the peak tourist season, traffic can be heavy in coastal areas, and parking can be challenging in popular destinations.
Public Transportation: Croatia has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and ferries. Buses are the primary means of long-distance travel and are a cost-effective option for getting around. They connect major cities and towns. Additionally, trams are available in some cities, such as Zagreb. Ferries are essential for traveling between the many islands along the Adriatic coast.
Trains: Croatia's train network is not as extensive as its bus system, but it can be a convenient and scenic way to travel between major cities and some towns. The train journey along the coast is particularly beautiful.
Boats and Ferries: If you plan to visit Croatia's islands, especially along the Dalmatian coast, taking boats and ferries is essential. These routes connect the mainland to the islands and offer a unique travel experience.
Domestic Flights: While most travelers don't need to take domestic flights within Croatia, there are airports in major cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik that offer connections to international destinations. Flights can save time for those with tight schedules.
Cycling: Croatia has a growing network of cycling routes, making it a great option for active travelers who want to explore the countryside and coastal areas at a more leisurely pace.

Solo travel in Croatia can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Croatia is a beautiful and safe destination with a lot to offer for solo travelers.

Ease of Travel: Getting around Croatia is relatively easy and affordable. While trains are not common for coastal travel, you can use buses like Flixbus, which offer affordable fares, making it convenient for solo travelers who may not drive.
Safety: Croatia is considered a safe country, which can provide peace of mind for solo travelers exploring new destinations.
English Proficiency: In tourist areas, English is widely spoken, making it easier to communicate. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases, like 'hvala' (thank you), can be a nice gesture and enhance your travel experience.
Affordability: Croatia can be relatively affordable, especially if you avoid the peak summer season. Hostels, local buses, and dining in less touristy areas can help you save money.
Hostel Culture: Croatia has a variety of hostels that not only save you money but also offer social and fun experiences, providing opportunities to make friends and enjoy the local nightlife.

DAY BUDGET

A rough estimate of daily expenses for different types of travelers:

Budget Traveler: For budget-conscious travelers staying in hostels, eating at local restaurants or street food stalls, and using public transportation, you can expect to spend around 40-70 Euros per day.
Mid-Range Traveler: If you prefer mid-range hotels or guesthouses, dining in sit-down restaurants, and occasionally participating in guided tours or activities, you might spend around 70-150 Euros per day.
Luxury Traveler: For those seeking luxury accommodations, fine dining experiences, private tours, and more upscale activities, your daily budget could exceed 150 Euros and go well into the hundreds of Euros.

ACCOMMODATION

An elaborate list of cheap, mid-range, and luxury hotels throughout all of Croatia can be found

Here

NATIONAL DISH

The national dish of Croatia is "Peka." Peka is a traditional Croatian cooking method that involves baking meat (typically lamb, veal, or octopus) and vegetables in a covered pot or metal bell-like dome. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, often over an open flame or in an outdoor oven, which gives it a distinct and delicious flavor.

Next to Peka, Ćevapi is sold everywhere around the country: these are small, grilled sausages made from minced meat, usually a mixture of beef and pork, seasoned with spices. They are typically served with flatbread (somun), chopped onions, and ajvar (a red pepper-based condiment).

Other dishes that are widely enjoyed and considered quintessentially Croatian include:

Pasticada: This is a traditional Dalmatian dish made with marinated beef, often served with gnocchi or pasta. It's slow-cooked in a rich, sweet and sour sauce made with wine, vinegar, and spices.
Istrian Truffle Dishes: The Istrian region of Croatia is known for its truffle-based dishes, such as truffle pasta and truffle-infused sauces.
Soparnik: A traditional dish from the Dalmatian region, soparnik is a savory pie made with layers of thin dough filled with Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil.
Risotto (Rižot): Seafood risotto is especially popular in coastal regions of Croatia, with ingredients like fresh seafood, rice, white wine, and various seasonings.

DRINKS

The choice of beverages in Croatia often varies by region and personal preference. Some of the notable and traditional Croatian drinks include:

Rakija: Rakija is a strong fruit brandy that holds a special place in Croatian culture. It is commonly made from fruits like grapes (loza), plums (šljivovica), cherries (višnjevača), or herbs (travarica). Rakija is often consumed as an aperitif or digestive, and it's an integral part of many social gatherings and celebrations.
Wine: Croatia has a long history of winemaking, and its wine regions produce a wide variety of high-quality wines. Some famous Croatian wine regions include Istria, Dalmatia, and Slavonia. Croatian wines, both red and white, have gained recognition on the international stage.
Ožujsko Beer: Ožujsko is one of Croatia's most popular beer brands. It's a lager-style beer that is widely consumed throughout the country. Croatia has a growing craft beer scene, and you can find a variety of locally brewed beers as well.
Pelinkovac: Pelinkovac is a herbal liqueur known for its strong, bitter taste. It's often consumed as a digestive after a meal. The unique flavor comes from a blend of herbs, including wormwood.
Medica: Medica is a honey liqueur or brandy made from honey and often flavored with various herbs. It's a sweet and warming drink that is sometimes enjoyed as a shot or used in cocktails.
Grappa: Grappa, also known as lozovača in Croatia, is a grape-based brandy. It is similar to rakija but made specifically from grape pomace, the leftover skins, seeds, and stems from winemaking.
Herbal Teas: Croatia is known for its rich tradition of herbal teas, often made from locally sourced herbs. These teas are enjoyed for their soothing and medicinal properties.

TAP WATER

Tap water in Croatia is generally safe to drink. The country has a well-regulated and safe public water supply system, and the tap water is of good quality in most places. This includes major cities, towns, and tourist destinations.

However, if you are in a particularly remote or rural area, it's a good idea to check with locals or your accommodation regarding the quality of the tap water. In some very rural or isolated locations, the tap water may not meet the same standards as in more urban areas.

VACCINATIONS

Croatia does not require any specific vaccinations for travelers entering the country. However, vaccination requirements and recommendations can change over time. Here are some recommendations as of 2023:

COVID-19 Vaccination: at this moment, there are no requirements anymore regarding the pandemic
Tick-Borne Encephalitis: If you plan to spend a significant amount of time in rural or forested areas in Croatia, you may want to inquire about tick-borne encephalitis vaccination. This is more relevant for individuals engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or camping.

EPISCOPAL COMPLEX OF THE EUPHRASIAN BASILICA IN THE HISTORIC CENTRE OF POREČ

A beautifully preserved early Christian basilica with stunning mosaics and an adjacent sacristy, baptistery, and episcopal palace, showcasing the architectural and artistic heritage of the region.

HISTORIC CENTRE OF TROGIR

A well-preserved gem of Venetian architecture, featuring a maze of narrow medieval streets, stunning Romanesque and Renaissance buildings, and a magnificent cathedral and castle, all set on a charming island in the Adriatic Sea.

HISTORICAL COMPLEX OF SPLIT WITH THE PALACE OF DIOCLETIAN

Split, Croatia is a remarkable historical complex centered around the Palace of Diocletian. This ancient palace, built for a Roman emperor, is now surrounded by a vibrant city and holds centuries of history within its walls.

OLD CITY OF DUBROVNIK

Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", this city situated on the Dalmatian coast has been put on the map by the series Game of Thrones, but has stayed there because of its beautiful history, its preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches and its amazing city walls.

STARI GRAD PLAIN

The Stari Grad Plain on Hvar is a special place in Croatia that has been used to grow crops for over 2,400 years. People have carefully organized the land into small fields, called plots, to grow things like grapes and olives, showing how ancient farming traditions can still be seen today.

STEĆCI MEDIEVAL TOMBSTONE GRAVEYARDS

The medieval tombstone graveyards known as Stećci can be found in various countries and hold a lot of history. These unique tombstones are like art and tell stories about the people who lived long ago, giving us a glimpse into the past.

THE CATHEDRAL OF ST JAMES IN ŠIBENIK

Renowned for its stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, showcasing intricate stonework and a remarkable dome, representing a masterpiece of architectural innovation and artistry.

WESTERN STATO DA MAR

A historical region in the Republic of Venice's overseas empire, encompassing various territories and islands along the eastern Adriatic coast, notable for its significant role in Venetian maritime and trade dominance during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

ANCIENT AND PRIMEVAL BEECH FORESTS OF THE CARPATHIANS AND OTHER REGIONS OF EUROPE

A special group of forests in 18 countries that show how beech trees have grown and adapted in different places. These forests are like time capsules, showing how beech trees survived ice ages and then spread across Europe, creating different types of forests with lots of different plants and animals. Scientists have studied these forests to learn about the past and how these trees and other species depend on them.

PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

The largest National Park of Croatia lies in a beautiful karst landscape and a mix of forests, meadows, interconnected throughout by waterfalls and rivers. A true natural phenomenon, the tufa barriers and naturally saturated water have together with centuries of ongoing processes formed the Plitvice pools or "Dinarides".

DO I NEED A VISA?

You don't need a Visa coming from most countries in Europe, from the United States, Canada, several South American countries and Asian countries. A full overview given by the Guatemalan government can be found here. If you have a layover in the USA, do look into ESTA requirements.

HOW LONG CAN I STAY?

The stamp you get on entry into Guatemala tells you you can stay 90 days. You can apply for an extension of 30 days, which costs around 190 QTZ. On top of that, you can exit the country to Belize, Mexico or Costa Rica and then enter again to get another 90 days. The countries El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua fall under the 90 days and do not count as exits.

Croatia shares a border with Slovenia to the northwest. There are multiple border crossings between the two countries, including those on major highways and at smaller crossings in rural areas. Border crossings between Croatia and Slovenia are typically efficient and well-organized, making travel relatively easy.

Croatia has a long border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, with many border crossings along the way. The border crossings are typically open and well-maintained, but it's important to have your passport and travel documents in order, especially since you're crossing into a non-European Union (EU) country.

When you travel from central or Northern Croatia to Dubrovnik or the other way around by road, you pass an area of land along the coast that is not Croatian territory. You will have to get out at the border crossing twice, but this all goes very smoothly.

NATIONALE FEESTDAGEN & FESTIVALS
(dates 2023)

1 Jan

6 Jan

April (var.)

1 May

30 May

22 Jun

5 Aug

1 Nov

18 Nov

25 Dec

26 Dec

New Year's Day

Epiphany

Easter

Labour day

Statehood day

Anti-Fascist Struggle day

Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints Day

The Day of Remembering the Victims of the Croatia War of Independence & the Day of Remembering the Victims of Vukovar and Škabrnja

Christmas

Saint Stephen's day

Flores

Streets of Hvar, Croatia

Hvar Croatia

Hvar streets ancient

Streets of Hvar, Croatia

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Het stadje Flores ligt op een eiland in het meer van Petén Itzá en heeft een levendige, ontspannen en kleurrijke sfeer. De smalle straatjes leiden naar charmante gebouwen in koloniale stijl die in levendige kleuren zijn geschilderd.

Het centrale plein van het stadje, versierd met een charmant wit kerkje, is een centrum van activiteit en een perfecte plek om de levendige sfeer op te snuiven. Vanaf de oevers van het Petén Itzá-meer kun je een boottocht maken naar de fascinerende Mayaruïnes van Tikal, een van de belangrijkste archeologische vindplaatsen in Midden-Amerika. De dichte omringende jungle voegt een sfeer van mysterie toe terwijl je de torenhoge piramides en ingewikkelde tempels verkent die ooit floreerden met oude beschavingen. Of overweeg het minder bekende Yaxha of Nakun voor een rustige ervaring.

s Avonds komt Flores tot leven met een bruisend nachtleven, met een verscheidenheid aan restaurants, bars en straatverkopers die heerlijke lokale gerechten serveren. De straten rondom de stad zijn overstroomd door het stijgende waterpeil, waardoor sommige delen niet meer (te voet) toegankelijk zijn.

GETTING THERE

Ferries go multiple times a day from the cities of Split or Dubrovnik, but also from the neighbouring islands along the Dalmatian coast.

GETTING AROUND

On Hvar you will need a car or a taxi to get around, if you want to see other parts of the island. Many tourists rent scooters but the locals think this is very unsafe as cars drive very fast and these roads are not meant for scooters.

CATHOLICISM

All churches on Hvar ar Catholic and the majority of the people on this island follow this religion.

EASTER TRADITION

Za Križen: a UNESCO-protected Easter tradition for almost 500 years, involves a night-long procession by six villages carrying a veiled wooden cross. Led by barefoot or sock-clad cross-bearers, the journey covers twenty-five kilometers, with the cross never touching the ground, except in churches. The spiritually charged participants return to their home church in the morning, welcomed by locals in a celebration marked by fervent singing.

HVAR CATHEDRAL

This 16th-century cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hvar Town. It features a beautiful Renaissance façade and an interior adorned with artwork and religious relics.

THE HVAR FORTRESS

The Hvar Fortress, also known as Fortica or Španjola Fortress, is a historic fortress located above Hvar Town. It offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding Adriatic Sea. The fortress dates back to the 16th century and provides a glimpse into the island's history. It's a popular spot to watch the sunset and take in breathtaking views of the coast.

Antigua

OLD TOWN

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Dubrovnik's Old Town is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and cultural significance. This status underscores its importance as a unique and well-preserved destination.

CITY WALLS

The city walls are perhaps the most iconic feature of Dubrovnik. Walking along these ancient walls provides breathtaking views of the city, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding landscapes. The walls extend for about 1.2 miles and offer a unique perspective of the Old Town.

Deze charmante stad, boordevol geschiedenis en cultuur, is een verborgen juweeltje dat wacht om ontdekt te worden. Hoewel Antigua geen torenhoge wolkenkrabbers of bruisende stadscentra heeft, ligt de ware schoonheid van de stad in de adembenemende natuurlijke landschappen en de bewaard gebleven koloniale architectuur. Omringd door ontzagwekkende vulkanen, zoals Fuego, Acatenango en Agua, biedt de stad een betoverende achtergrond.

Keienstraatjes kronkelen door de stad en leiden naar pittoreske pleinen versierd met levendig gekleurde huizen en grote kerken, die het rijke erfgoed van de stad laten zien. Van de iconische Boog van Santa Catalina tot de majestueuze ruïnes van het Klooster van Santa Clara, overblijfselen van Antigua's koloniale verleden vind je bij elke bocht.

Dit UNESCO Werelderfgoed heeft ook een bloeiende kunstscène, met plaatselijke galerieën die het talent van Guatemalteekse kunstenaars tonen. Als je over de levendige markten en ambachtelijke winkeltjes dwaalt, ontdek je ingewikkeld textiel, handgemaakt keramiek en traditioneel Maya-vlechtwerk dat het inheemse erfgoed van de regio weerspiegelt. Dompel jezelf onder in de smaken van Antigua door te genieten van de plaatselijke keuken, die Maya-tradities combineert met Spaanse invloeden. Proef traditionele gerechten zoals pepián, een rijke stoofpot van vlees, of geniet van de zoetheid van chuchitos, een soort Guatemalteekse tamale. Voor natuurliefhebbers biedt het omringende platteland een schat aan avonturen, van wandeltochten over de hellingen van actieve vulkanen tot het verkennen van koffieplantages in de weelderige heuvels.

Dubrovnik from above

iglesia Merced, Antigua, Guatemala

City walls of Dubrovnik

Mount Fuego seen from Antigua, Guatemala

City walls of Dubrovnik

Iglesia Merced, Antigua Guatemala

Dubrovnik from above

iglesia Merced, Antigua, Guatemala

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Lanquin

Lanquin is een charmant stadje in Guatemala, omringd door prachtige bergen en valleien. Lanquin bereiken kan een avontuurlijke reis op zich zijn, want de afgelegen ligging maakt het een minder bezochte plaats. Hoewel de weg naar Lanquin uitdagend kan zijn, is de inspanning zeker de moeite waard. De kronkelende paden die naar dit verborgen juweeltje leiden, voeren je door adembenemende landschappen, langs dichte bossen en rivieren die je onderweg oversteekt. Eenmaal in Lanquin aangekomen, word je omgeven door een gevoel van afzondering en rust, een ware ontsnapping aan de drukke buitenwereld. Je vindt er prachtige hostels waar je tot rust kunt komen na de lange reis ernaartoe.

Van daaruit kun je een bezoek brengen aan Semuc Champey, een adembenemend schouwspel verscholen in de jungle. Het heeft turkooizen zwembaden die trapsgewijs over stenen terrassen lopen en zo een paradijselijke omgeving creëren. Breng je dagen door met zwemmen, wandelen en het verkennen van de grotten met hun betoverende rotsformaties. Terug in Lanquin kun je genieten van heerlijke Guatemalteekse gerechten en je onderdompelen in de plaatselijke cultuur door deel te nemen aan dansvoorstellingen en vieringen. Lanquin en Semuc Champey bieden een onvergetelijke ervaring die avontuur, natuurlijke schoonheid en de levendige geest van Guatemala combineert.

The Diocletians Palace in Split, Croatia

Semuc Champey in Lanquin, Guatemala

The Bell tower in Split

Semuc Champey turquoise pools

Busy streets of Split

Semuc Champey

The Diocletians Palace in Split, Croatia

Semuc Champey in Lanquin, Guatemala

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