Rab
island covers 90.48 square km. It is one of the greenest
islands in the Adriatic and probably one of the most magical.
It is covered with pine forests and has beautiful sandy beaches,
and is well known for its mild climate which differs from the
mainland. The reason for this is that three ridges are present
which protect the island from cold winds from the Velebit mountains.
The main resort, Rab Town, is full of medieval buildings,
built during the Venetian rule which occurred since the 13th
century. The old town walls are still visible in some places.
Medieval Rab town, one of the prettiest in the region, is built
on a narrow peninsula which encloses a sheltered harbour - stone
buildings climb from the harbour to a cliff overlooking the
sea.
Entering Croatia
Most tourists to Croatia come by car and
are usually from the neighbouring countries of Austria, Slovenia,
Italy, Germany and so on. From northern Europe, the easiest
way to get to Croatia would be by driving to Munich and then
entering Austria, down to Graz, crossing into Slovenia and then
heading for Croatia which is signposted as soon as you leave
Maribor. For those coming by plane, the main airports are Zagreb,
Pula, Split and Dubrovnik. Foreign visitors do not normally
require visas to enter Croatia, but if you do need one, this
is given free of charge upon entering the country. The exception
is some eastern European countries where you have to obtain
a visa at the Croatian Embassy.
Money
The Croatian currency is the kuna, which is divided
into 100 lipas. (Kuna means marten, a weasel-like animal, whose
fur Croats used for payment many centuries ago. The lipa is
a lime tree). The kuna is a stable currency
Health
The health service is of a good standard. You have
to pay for seeing a doctor or being treated in a hospital. Certain
countries such as Britain have reciprocal medical arrangements
whereby, in principal, you should not have to pay for any emergency
treatment. It is therefore useful to wave you passport first
and mention this. We know some British people who received free
first class medical care for breaking an arm.
Safety
It is quite safe to travel all over Croatia and
mugging and thefts are not a problem. You can safely walk in
any town at night, but use you common sense, as always. In some
coastal resorts, as is common all over the Mediterranean, single
women may be approached or wolf whistled at. Say no firmly and
you will not be bothered. In case of any problems, approach
a policeman or even a soldier who will assist you. Both the
Croatian police and the army are well disciplined. If you have
a language problem, approach a younger person (teenagers/students)
as they all speak some English and will more than eager to help.
Food & Drink
You get the standard fare like in many other central
European or Mediterranean countries (pizza, pasta, meat dishes,
fish). All food is safe to eat as restaurants are regularly
inspected, and there is no problem with drinking water. Croatian
beer are of a high quality. Try Zagreb's Ozujsko pivo or Karlovacko
pivo or Tuborg, brewed under license in Croatia. In Croatia,
some red wines are exquisite such as Plavac or Dingac. You should
also try Croatia's favourite brandy sljivovica, made from plums
or travarica, herbal brandy. |
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