 Croatia has quickly become Europe's hottest destination, and for good
reason. The rocky coastline continues
for 1778 kilometres and includes
pine-fringed coves, wide sandy beaches and cozy inlets. As if that weren't enough, there are a good 1185 islands that range
from lush and wooded to stark and hilly. Yachties love the sailing
opportunities, sunbathers have an incredible choice of beaches and
scuba divers have a paradise of sea life to explore.
Beyond the pretty scenery, Croatia also boasts a fascinating history
and cultural life.The walled city of Dubrovnik on its southern tip is a
must-stop for Mediterranean cruises but the long coast is littered with
remnants of Croatia's varied past.
The Romans swept through two thousand years ago, leaving an
amphitheatre in Pula and Diocletian's Palace in Split. Long ruled by
Venice, many ports along the coast bear the distinctive imprint of its
former master. In southern Dalmatia, the towns of Hvar and Korcula
resemble Little Venices without the canals. In Istria, the striking
bell tower in Rovinj is modeled after that on St Mark's Square in
Venice.
In contrast to the Italian-influenced coast, the Croatian interior was
part of the Austro-Hungarian empire and looks it. Zagreb, Croatia's
capital, has the kind of stately architecture that wouldn't be out of
place in Vienna or Budapest. Plus,it has a small medieval quarter that
vaguely resembles Prague.To the north of Zagreb, in the middle of
green, rolling hills, lies Varazdin, Croatia's most underrated city.
Lying too far from the coast to attract much tourism, Varazdin
nevertheless boasts a stunningly well-preserved baroque center.
So, what to see first? Following is my personal list of highlights for a Croatian visit:
* Dubrovnik
Byron called it the "Pearl of the
Adriatic" for the magnificent curtain of walls surrounding a city paved
in marble and strewn with Renaissance sculpture.
* Hvar Town
In addition to the splendid harbor
promenade and sculptured facades, it's becoming known for the best
nightlife on the Adriatic.
* Korcula Town
It resembles Hvar in some ways,
especially the narrow cluster of streets,but iit lies on a narrow
peninsula and is quieter.
* Rovinj
Istria's prettiest little town, it
retains the flavor of a traditional fishing port despite the heavy
influx of tourists in recent years.
* Plitvice Lakes National Park
It has to be seen to be believed. The 16
turquose lakes seem to glow and there are waterfalls everywhere. It's a
UNESCO world heritage site.
* Brela Beach
The idyllic coves, bordered with pine
trees, stretch out like a long necklace of beaches. Forbes magazine
recently named it one of the top twenty beaches in the world.
No matter where you go in Croatia, you'll find people eager to welcome
tourists after the grueling war of the early 1990s. English is widely
spoken and costs are comparatively reasonable compared to the rest of
the European coast. So what are you waiting for?
 Jeanne Oliver
Jeanne has written all three editions of Lonely Planet's Croatia
guidebook. To find out more about traveling to Croatia and to book your
trip, visit Jeanne's website, www.croatiatraveller.com.
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