Find Your Passion In Croatia
Everybody and their mothers are talking about Croatia these days. The tiny Baltic country of only 2 million people has skyrocketed up the tourism charts and has firmly established itself among the top destinations in the world. But it wasn’t always like this.
Not too long ago, the former state of Yugoslavia was torn apart by civil war. Stateside we learned about it, but I don’t believe we firmly grasped the magnitude of the trauma. You don’t have to be a history buff, but it’s certainly important to familiarize yourself with Croatian history before you visit.
As a foreign traveler, the more knowledge you have; good or bad, will provide a much more rewarding experience for you. It’s a display of respect to be an educated traveler. With commitment to learning Croatia’s recent past, you can truly build lasting friendships with those you meet.
I employ you to read up on the war and get a broad grasp on it. In my travels through Croatia, I found the people to not shy away from confronting this dark time in their past. Now, I wouldn’t advise that you lead discussions of a sensitive subject with new acquaintances, but don’t be surprised if a Croatian mentions this.
Growing up in war leaves some very obvious scars. But Croatia is making a fortuitous comeback.
Croatia has made serious leaps and bounds since 1995. The monumental forward progress is no doubt a testament to their fortuitous and passionate nature. I admire their spirit.
As a result of this recent tragedy, Croatians exude patriotism, and it’s displayed everywhere! Meer minutes after hopping in a cab from the airport in Split did I witness this electrifying pride for their country. A few feet away from my passenger window, I could see storefronts and houses donning the Croatian flag. Meanwhile…sedans, vans and mopeds wiz alongside the cab, decked out with the Croatian red, white, and blue. Croatia’s passion was all encompassing and it was a great sight to behold.
The Croatian flag displayed proudly in every home and storefront in the city of Split.
It’s easy for me to draw parallels with my native city, New York. After the Twin Towers fell on 9/11, New Yorkers exemplified incredible patriotism and hospitality. NYC had long developed a stigma for being selfish and individualistic. But after that terrible day, New Yorker’s couldn’t have been more the opposite.
It was truly beautiful to witness such great hospitality and kindness among strangers. We American’s, much like Croatian’s, have endured a tragedy but the drive to take a setback and turn it positive, is admirable.
The capital city, Zagreb is full of life. A stark contrast to years past.
Croatia is very passionate about their sporting achievements. Croatian’s are among the worlds best in water sports and they have supplied some of the very best athletes in world soccer (football for my non-American readership). I had the pleasure of witnessing a World Cup group stage match in Croatia’s capital, Zagreb. In this pivotal clash between Croatia and Mexico, the successor would move on to the Round-of-16 in the tournament and the other would be sent home.
I found myself in familiar territory standing among a sea of red in front of a massive telecast in Zagreb’s epicenter, Ban Jelačić Square. Much like the colors of my nation, I too shared a rivalry with the opposition.
Well, Croatia unfortunately lost a hard fought battle against El Tre. But not for one second did any of the Croatian hopefuls stop singing and cheering on their beloved team throughout the 90-minute match.
After the crushing defeat, my newly made acquaintances, who stood beside me all match involving me in all of their chants, invited me to join them for drinks. Now, perhaps this is tourist 101 here; you know, don’t accept drinks with strangers in a foreign country…but I felt comfortable with my new friends. And I’m glad I took this chance because I had one of the best nights in my 4 month euro trip.
I would soon realize that Croatian’s are serious contenders for the most passionate and hospitable people I have ever met in my years of traveling. Domagoj invited me over to his apartment with his friends. He offered me homemade bread and meats that he and his family had cured. I sampled homemade red wine and Rakija (plum brandy). And when I thought I couldn’t fit anything more in my stomach, I was encouraged to indulge on some of Domagoj’s Mother’s fresh baked pastries. Indulge I did.
Croatia may have lost the match. But the festivities continued deep into the night.
If you’ve read this far (you’re awesome!), the lesson to take away from my ramblings is to first read up on a country’s culture before you visit. And take educated risks. Because you might just come away with incredible, lasting memories.
Croatians live their lives with unabashed passion. It’s invigorating and infectious. Nothing is certain. So share in their thirst for life, it’ll make you feel alive!
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