The delight of sailing

Welcome to Croatia! More information on page 32. TOP 10 FAMILY BEACHES CROATIA BETTER HOLIDAY DISCOVER The delight of sailing ISSN 1846 - 5102 T...
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Welcome to Croatia! More information on page 32. TOP 10 FAMILY BEACHES

CROATIA

BETTER HOLIDAY

DISCOVER

The delight of sailing

ISSN 1846 - 5102

TIA t A PR OA O CR

ROJECT DP IN AR

SUMMER 2010 7 KN; 0,9 EUR

PARTNER O F

EST BUY EB AW TH

UD

You too can hire your own private yacht on the Adriatic. Prices today are much less than you might expect

Luxury The best hotels in Dubrovnik and Opatija

Festivals Summer fever of Dalmatian evenings

Yum! Healthy Croatian cuisine

otoci

. S Y A D I L O H N O LIDL , BEAUTIFUL NATURE WELCOME TO CROATIA AND CRISTAL WATER MER 2010: M U S G IN N E P O . S E R TO OVER 60 S D AND PAZIN. ŠINJ ISLANDS, IN BIOGRA ON BRAČ UND MALI LO

Welcome to Croatia! More information on page 32. 2 TRAVELLER LJETO 2010

HRVATSKA

editorial

The waterfalls of the Krka river in Skradin – the place that Bill Gates claims offers the best holiday in the world

Croatia is a hit Bill Gates lists Croatia as his best holiday to date. Croatia has also been praised by CNN, BBC, The Sunday Times and many others IT IS TRULY surprising how much respected worldwide media has written positively about Croatia as a tourist destination in the last few months. We have a feeling that it all somehow began when Bill Gates, asked by the most respected business magazine – Fortune: “Which has been you favourite holidays to date?” – answered – the small locality of Skradin in Croatia. At the end of June, in Las Vegas, the tourist TV show “WOW!Croatia” received the prestigious Emmy award. Finally, a few days ago, the TV station CNN recommended Dalmatia in Croatia as the best gastronomy destination in the world for these summer holidays. For this reason, in this Adria Traveller, along with recommendations about the best beaches for children or articles about the most impressive festivals, in cooperation with Lidl, we are also providing an overview of superior recipes of Croatian cuisine. Welcome to Croatia!

Steven Morell editor

CROATIA

Regardless of whether you’re looking for perfect nature and sea vistas, superior treatments in exclusive hotels or brilliant Mediterranean cuisine for your holiday, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Croatia

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A SUPERIOR HOLIDAY.

DURING YOUR HOLIDAY IN CROATIA BE SURE TO PAY ATTENTION TO PRODUCTS WITH THE “BEST BUY AWARD” MEDAL In Croatia, only products and services of superior quality and excellent prices can carry the “Best Buy Award” medal. The “Best Buy Award” medal and certificate are awarded on the basis of research conducted by the renowned Centre for market research GfK. The research methodology was developed in cooperation with the company Axios and the leading world consulting and auditing organisation PricewaterhouseCoopers For more information visit: www.bestbuyaward.org

EXCELLENT SHOPPING.

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THE MOMENT

YOU FORGET EVERYTHING IS A MOMENT YOU WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER

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HRVATSKA

contents Summer 2010

Topics 9

News What’s IN Find out the most important news from Istria, Kvarner, Dalmatia and the Croatian interior. What’s IN, What’s OUT.

38 Recipes Quick and tasty We have selected recipes which are healthy, tasty, quick to prepare, while at the same time the basis of the traditional cuisine of the Croatian coastal region.

20 Luxury Palaces for all We reveal the best Croatian grand hotels, as well as tricks and advice about how you too can enjoy their services, even if you’re not a guest

24 Sailing Complete freedom Sailing need not only be enjoyed by those with

38

full pockets. Discover the most beautiful side of the Adriatic

28 Beaches Paradise for kids Where are the best and most beautiful beaches on the Croatian Adriatic suited to children and families

34 Festivals On hot summer nights Traditional festivals along the Croatian Adriatic coast will further awaken your senses and draw you even closer to the spirit of the Croatian Adriatic

Editor’s choice

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16 Touristar Overview of the most interesting hotels in Croatia for 2010 18 Money We asked the experts where to invest in Croatia? 23 Lubenice An unbelievable place with an unbelievable beach 33 Biograd From a small fishing locality to a tourist destination 36 Poreč Street Art Long live street culture!

Shopping 54 Authentically Croatian An overview of original Croatian souvenirs 56 Best Buy Award Favourable quality and price 58 Fast Snack Fast-food excellent for the beach and summer mood 60 Refreshments Advice for quick energy pick-me-ups 62 Cosmetics If you’ve forgotten your sun cream, etc.

34 CROATIA

CROATIA

Adria Traveller Croatia Publisher: Axios d.o.o. Pušine 12 10430 Samobor Croatia Managing director: Mirjana S. Pelaic Tel: +385 1 369 22 60 Fax: +385 1 369 22 61 Email: [email protected]

Copyright: 2010 - Axios d.o.o.; Obvius d.o.o. Editor: Steven Morell Assistant editor: Christy Green Great effort has been invested in the creation of this Editor in chief: Robert Slavecki publication to ensure that the information is as Manager of language production: Olja Frugnoli accurate as possible. However, the publisher and its partners and associates cannot be held liable for Language: Eurolanguage, Zagreb any possible mistakes in this Magazine. Design: Oriental, Geneve, CH ISSN 1846 - 5102 Prepress: Fingere, Samobor C O N S U LTA N T C Y S U P P O R T PA R T N E R S : Printing: Radin Print, Sveta Nedelja

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HRVATSKA

infocus

House for 50,000 EUR Due to the recession now it is possible to buy good real estate for attractive prices THROUGHOUT the year we receive many questions and comments from you. One of the frequent questions is how to buy a real estate on the Adriatic coast in Croatia, what are the prices and where we believe are the most interesting locations for such purchase. According to many independent sources, Croatia is regularly among the world’s top 20 countries for the purchase of a real estate when it comes to real estates „in the sun“. Croatia is expected to join the EU in a few years, thus, regarding the current crisis, maybe this year is really the right time to buy a real estate in Croatia at a more favorable price. As for the location there is no doubt, Dubrovnik is too expensive. Istria inland is much too vaunted. A few years ago in Istria, which is a gorgeous region, yet still lacks well developed infrastructure (no highways), the British bought several villas with a view to the sea at prices exceeding 500,000 EUR. Currently, we recommend the regions of the Dalmatian hinterland, near the towns of Zadar or Šibenik. This is the only region in Croatia which has as much as three national parks (Kornati, Paklenica, Krka) in its vicinity, and to come to the Plitivca Lakes it takes only a 90 minutes ride. There are also two international airports and excellent highway connection. Here you can buy old stone houses (renovation required, of course) only a few kilometers from the sea for less than 50,000 EUR. We recommend the following search engine for real estates (unfortunately only in Croatia) - www.gohome.hr. Here you can find beautiful things for excellent prices.

CROATIA

Info for a better vacation

What’s “in” in Istria, Dalmatia, Kvarner and the Croatian midland

Neretva ACROSS THE ADRIATIC SEA WITH BOATS Boatmen from the Neretva valley will soon try to row the Adriatic sea in their boats. Project named „In the footsteps of our ancestors“ shall revive the routes of the ancestors who fled to Italy in such way.

Zagreb INTERNATIONAL AWARD FOR ZAGREB ARENA Zagreb hall “Arena”, which hosted the finals of the Handball World Cup, has been awarded the building of the year at the international BBR conference. Try it by visiting the next concert!

Murter NEW CINEMA The old oil plant on the island Murter and the old soccer playground go to history. A new summer cinema and a new shopping mall will open in that location. The small town of Murter will get a new aspect.

Speak on your phone, but! While on vacation in Croatia be careful with the phone and even more so with wireless Internet on your mobile. One tourist from Austria received a phone bill for more than 37,000 EUR spent in Croatia. Our tip: when in Croatia, buy GSM prepaid or Internet cards – best providers are Tele2 or VIP.

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More taste

We must celebrate life, feed and enjoy it. Home is a precious and warm place where we make our own rules. That is why the new packaging of Vegeta was designed exactly for you, to be always ready to hand and to make cooking even more pleasing within your family circle. Enjoy the culinary moments with Vegeta and share the joy with others. Remember: the way to a man's heart is through his stomach!

• RG O

YAWA RD TBU ES . B

N R MO EY CO N FO 10 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

CROATIA

BEST VA LU

NTS • WWW ME . DI

www.vegeta.com.hr

E

Eat better with Vegeta!

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Croatia NEW POLICE EMERGENCY NUMBER - 192 According to the Croatian Ministry of the Interior, since 3 June 2010 there is a new police emergency number 192 for the whole Croatian area. The previous number 92 has been changed due to the process of harmonization of the Croatian laws with standards of the EU, which is to be joined soon by Croatia.

In the focus of paparazzi

Krk DAILY PARKING TICKETS In Krk on the island of Krk there is a public parking payment regulation, just like before. Finally, daily parking tickets of 70.00 HRK have been introduced. With these, drivers who had been fined for occupying parking lots for more than an hour will no longer make such bad experience.

THE LAST few years the Croatian coast has been a popular tourist destination for many international celebrities. Some might remember when the Yugoslavian president Josip Broz TITO brought to Brijuni celebrities from the covers of magazines, such as Elizabeth Taylor, Sofia Loren or Richard Burton. Meanwhile the faces changed, but still the rich and beautiful feel particularly attracted by the Croatian coast. A few months ago, when he was asked about his most beautiful vacation, Bill Gates said for the American Forbes that he remembers with great joy his summer vacation and his walks in the small Dalmatian town of Skradin. In order to find out which celebrities we can encounter this year in Croatia we asked the Croatian VIP tourist agencies. According to the latest information, Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow are going to visit the island of Korčula and will probably stay in the small boutique hotel “Dimitri Lešić”. Recently, we saw Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russel enjoying a tour in the streets of Dubrovnik. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt travelled the area around Dubrovnik this summer and last summer Dubrovnik was also the destination for Jay-Z and his wife Beyonce.

Info for a better vacation

The Croatian coast attracts many celebrities. Whom do we expect this year?

Rijeka KARTING FOR OLD AND YOUNG First kart track in Rijeka had its ribbon cutting ceremony in the district of Preluk. The track is almost 500 m long and offers 15 top kart cars of the German manufacturer Rimo, used by the best European kart centers, including Michael Schumacher’s. A 10 minutes (joy)ride for 10 EUR.

Seriously Cheaper. CROATIA

Even on holidays!

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Maritime traffic ONE VIGNETTE FOR ALL Since 1 June this year Croatia has introduced a new system of charging fees from foreign yachtsmen by purchase of a single vignette. Now yachtsmen can pay the sojourn tax, navigation safety charge, light dues etc. in one place. The vignette is obligatory for vessels longer than 5 m with bed.

City of life

Dalmatia

It’s always interesting in Zadar. If not in town, then in its closest vicinity

Info for a better vacation

ZADAR is one of our favorites on the Adriatic coast. We love it because of the great sunset, beautiful near beaches, quality night life, top restaurants and always some novelties. We just got used to the phenomenal and world’s unique sea organ, the fantastic Greeting to the sun and the highly acclaimed Garden Festival, Zadar has something new to offer. This summer in Kožine, near Zadar, the adventure park spreading over almost 10,000 square meters will open, where visitors will be able to enjoy in more than seven kilometers of adrenalin facilities. Due to such range of activities it is a unique park in this region of Croatia. The near town of Benkovac, which is known for its excellent rose wine, has made particular efforts to attract tourists this year. The whole town was involved in a big floristic activity. We especially recommend a visit to the Benkovac village fair which takes place once a month – on 10th day of each month. The already legendary Garden Festival is a special reference to pay a visit to Zadar. This festival is among the top 10 places for a great summer party in Europe. This summer the Garden offers an excellent combination of live music by the world’s best DJs, House Music - Henrik Schwarz, Metro Area, The Revenge, Ilija Rudman...

AMONG THE BEST IN THE WORLD In the recent edition of The Sunday Timesa, a list of the most top-visited small hotels in Europe standing out for their charm and beautifully designed rooms. This prestigious list includes 4 hotels in Dalmatia: Vestibul Palace (Split), Riva (Hvar), Lešić Dimitri (Korčula) and Bellevue (Dubrovnik)

Dubrovnik NEW TOWN NEAR DUBROVNIK? The Croatian company Profectus revealed recently its plan of building a large tourist complex with the name „Hrvatski san“ near Dubrovnik which would spread over 45 hectares. This project will include 8 elite hotels, a marina with 400 landings, a golf playground and many other tourist facilities

A SYMBOL THAT ONLY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES OF SUPERIOR QUALITY AND EXCELLENT PRICE CAN CARRY. www.bestbuyaward.org

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CROATIA

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Guggenheim in Istria? Is one of the world’s most famous museum chains opening on the Istrian peninsula LIKE fire the information recently spread throughout Croatia that the famous Guggenheim museum chain intends to open a museum in Istria – more precisely in Pula or near Pula. Croatian Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor talked with certain American investors who showed their interest in financing the project of Guggenheim museum in Istria with the amazing value of 2 billion US$. Should this ambitious project truly be realized then Pula would be included among the exceptional list of towns where Guggenheim is already present: New York, Bilbao, Berlin, Abu Dhabi...

CROATIA

Novigrad in Istria is doing its best The small Istrian town Novigrad went to great lengths this summer to please its visitors. For sports and fun lovers there is the Run&Party festival – running along the coast and the old town walls. For those who like good food and drink there are many restaurants and taverns, among them Damir (last year voted best restaurant on the Mediterranean)

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Devine in Split This summer the capital of Dalmatia is a true center of culture. Dali and Dante… ART LOVERS will enjoy Split this summer. After Chagall and Goya, next on the schedule is a the Salvador Dali exhibition. The exhibition includes more than a hundred graphic works inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy. These particular graphic works are highly estimated by collectors because they are not only pieces of art made by one of the world’s most famous surrealists, but also pieces of art made on a specific type of paper. The Italian Government ordered this collection from Dali on the occasion of the 700th birthday of Dante, but they recalled the order, so the collection was first shown in France in 1963 and one year later in Italy. Dante and Dali, artists with similar fates and fatal loves, intertwined perfectly in this exceptional cycle. Rovinj and Pula are expecting a cruiser boom this year. As a rule, cruisers were reserved for Dubrovnik and Zadar, but things change. By the end of 2010, 54 cruisers are expected in the port of Rovinj. As for Pula, its port is about to accept some of the world’s most famous cruisers: Silver Wind, Silver Cloud, Le Boreal, Aegean Odyssey, Pegasus...

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CROATIA

Mulino, Plovanija, Istra

Touristar

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Where Places and Tastes Make a Difference We present you the best, the most interesting and most specific, simply different brands by virtue of which your next trip will be the one to Croatia This story begins with thrill by the exceptional in Croatian tourism, by things that touch your soul and surpass all your expectations and probably leave you breathless... At the end of the summer 2010 the first edition of the Touristars book will be presented (a guide with a motto Where Places and Tastes Make a Difference). The aim of the project is to accentuate the distinguished brands on offer in our country. Except promoting various services and venues (hotels, small family hotels, rural households, restaurants etc.) Touristar's project emphasizes the importance of the new quality standard and sets the ground for the personal education through the spiritual and energetic transformation. In creating the successful environment it is very important to generate a vision and motivation and to consolidate all the resources existing in a team. In co-operation with Victus centre and Dr. Vlatko Kalpoš, E. M., the leading personal development expert in the region, Touristar has built in the education according to standards mentioned above into its foundations. We started this specific year with enthusiasm and fresh ideas, will highlight it with the qualities of the best destinations, most interesting flavours and most impressive experiences...We will round it up with about 20 brands we are sure that offer more, with a lot of heart – kindly and hospitably...we were told by Touristar team. See for yourselves... www.touristar.net

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A line for a better holiday

Situated in the beautiful region of Istria close to Slovenian and Italian borders, surrounded by the natural park of salt fields... Hotel Kazbek, Dubrovnik After the turbulent history it has been reborn and now represents harmony of the past and present, a combination of the historical chic and the conveniences of the modern life. Hotel Mozart The hotel that seizes your attention with its architecture, style, friendly staff and warm atmosphere in the very heart of Opatija, „the old lady“ of Croatian tourism. Hotel Osijek is a minute or two away from the main town square and central pedestrian zone. It unites all the elements of the Esseker patrician spirit and welcoming culture Hotel Katarina Hotel Katarina, only a step away from Split, offers luxurious and convenient accommodation, therefore is a perfect spot for business people and those who want to rest&relax.

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Dešković Palace The Dešković Family Palace is a historical monument turned into a first class hotel. Indulge yourself in the artist's atelier and gallery and enjoy the sunshine in the enchanting garden.

CROATIA

Jelov klanac, Plitvice lakes Sheltered by a 400 year old lime tree, glorious Jela arose, all made of wood, unique and inventive. Jela is a house in a forest and it „thinks“ green, brown and red in colours of its suites.

ATLANTA Bocca Marai – specialize in fish dishes and Mediterranean cuisine and are only a few steps away from Zagreb city center

Spa & Golf Resort Sv. Martin A remarkable destination for relaxing, sports, wellness&spa and activity holidays, with the enchanting Međimurje countryside and exquisite gourmet experience.

Touristar gastronomy Where tastes appeal to all senses and delight even the most demanding gourmets There are three special restaurants that we singled out in the Touristar's guide this year- ATLANTA Bocca Marai and Nova in Zagreb, and Bocca Porta in Pula. With their interesting interior design, very different culinary experience and high quality service they invite for a revisit.

3 Experience the unforgettable moments in the beautiful Falkensteiner hotels. Fascinated by the sun, enjoy the walks on long beaches, let yourself be thrilled by the amazing places, relax in the wellness center endlessly or have an active holiday – no matter which, you can do it all in Croatia.

Stancia Negričani The Modrušan family rural household in Istria is a true heaven for lovers of intact nature. Embraced with pasture-grounds and with a sea view it represents a combination of the green and blue Istria, not only because of its geographical position, but also for the art of preparing traditional food and drinks. 4

Wellness

Daruvar spa was built on the remains of the Roman settlement of Aquae Balissae. It is the main guardian of the tradition of using therapeutic thermal spas and mineral mud, with great contribution to healing, recreation, sport, tourism and horticulture that many bigger towns would wish for...

CROATIA

A line for a better holiday

Falkensteiner, Zadar

Lantoni Residence An exclusive and luxury facility situated on the hill overlooking the Mlini bay and only 15 minutes away from the Dubrovnik airport and 10 minutes from the town of Dubrovnik. Zlatna greda This is the first Croatian eco tourist agency that introduces the visitors to the sights of nature and diversity of flora and fauna of the Middle Danube region

Arcotel Allegra is a perfect hotel for business trips located in the very center of Zagreb, in the Branimir center.

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PROMOTION

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money TRUE EXPERTS PricewaterhouseCoopers is the leading auditing and consulting company in the world, with its headquarters in New York (USA). Its clients are leading world corporations like: ExxonMobil, Ford Motor Company and IBM. Even the American Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences uses their services for the needs of the Academy Awards – the Oscars

INTERVIEW

Is it time for Croatia? Where do the true investments opportunities in Croatia lie, we asked those in the know – the experts of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) John M. Gašparac: At the moment, Croatia offers a multitude of interesting investment niches

Francois D. Mattelaer: Croatia is a beautiful country with a very good infrastructure

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REGARDLESS of whether you have 10,000 or a million Euros on your bank account, while laying on the beach you’re probably asking yourself what would be a good place to invest your money so that your future holidays last even longer and are of better quality. We asked the experts of the largest world auditing and consulting company, PricewaterhouseCoopers, about the subject of quality investments in Croatia. ADRIA TRAVELLER: Bill Gates recently stated that his favourite holiday was in Croatia, in Skradin. What makes Croatia such an attractive holiday destination?

JOHN M. GAŠPARAC: First thing that comes to mind is that nature has in many, if not most, respects, been preserved. The beauty of the coastline and the many islands. Croatia has remained relatively uncommercialised or underdeveloped, in a commercial respect unfortunately, but the maritime landscape has been preserved... ADRIA TRAVELLER: Can Croatia be as equally interesting to investors as it is to tourists? FRANCOIS D. MATTELAER: Of course, but only if they have access to the right information. In Croatia there are numerous investment opportunities however investors are

CROATIA

money Francois D. Mattelaer: “If it wants to be the European

California, Croatia must invest more into hi-tech” unfortunately often given the wrong information. ADRIA TRAVELLER: Some claim that Croatia could become the California of the EU. Is this possible? JOHN: Lets be honest, it’s not Hollywood, but perhaps this is a good thing, although we do have our fair share of stars. From a business perspective, interestingly enough, there are some interesting parallels or similarities; Croatia is very well known for tourism, it is well known for wine making and its vineyards, and if golf courses could be developed, I think Croatia would be as close to California as you will get in the EU. FRANCOIS: When talking about California, many first think of Hollywood, but we must not forget that California is also the Silicon Valley. California is the high-tech centre of the world. It is the headquarters of Google, Apple, Hewlett-Packard, Intel… My opinion is that insofar as Croatia truly wants to become the European California, in the future it must invest more into high technology. ADRIA TRAVELLER: What’s worth investing ones money into in Croatia? Should one invest today or wait? JOHN: Contact PricewaterhouseCoopers first, among others. I would ask what is missing in Croatia? Investment

CROATIA

does not necessarily have to be in tourism/rental related property, perhaps more for a summer home perspective. My first thoughts are production manufacturing plants, perhaps in a tax incentivized zone, where development should be promoted. I cannot avoid believing that the agriculture space is untapped and will be important in the economy of the future. FRANCOIS: Croatian has huge investment potential. Croatia itself is a market of some 4.5 million inhabitants, while during the summer season it is visited by some 9 million foreign tourists. Aside from this, Croatia is in an excellent geographical position in the region, especially in terms of the territory of the former Yugoslavia. When speaking of the countries of the former Yugoslavia, this is already a market of over 20 million people.

This provides great export market potential for Croatian manufacturers. ADRIA TRAVELLER: What are the biggest advantages of Croatia in terms of investments? FRANCOIS: First and foremost its excellent geographical position, the good level of education of its population, as well as its quality infrastructure – here I mean primarily the roads and telecommunications. JOHN: It is still untapped in many areas and development/growth could be explosive if you pick the right area. The Governor of the National bank is one of the best and has a very strong impact on the solidity of the Croatian banking system. It is a country that wants to make its mark and wishes to be recognized; efforts toward reform are in process and there appears to be a genuine desire for positive change. Being a part of such change is always good as far as I am concerned.

John M. Gašparac: “Governor Rohatinski is excellent.

The result is a stable banking system”

Francois D. Mattelaer (left) is the Country Managing Partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers for Croatia and Slovenia. John M. Gašparac is the PricewaterhouseCoopers Territory Assurance Leader/Partner for Croatia

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topic

Love at first sight – on the terrace of the restaurant of the Hotel Argentina in Dubrovnik Relaxing by the hotel pool of one of the hotels in Dubrovnik

The evening scene in the Gills restaurant in Dubrovnik

LUXUS

Palaces for all You can enjoy some of the services of the Grand hotels even if you’re not a guest WHENEVER I look for somewhere to relax or if I feel a little lost in the world, I look for the nearest luxury hotel. No, I’m not rich but you don’t need to be a billionaire to enjoy the advantages of Valet parking or Spas. It’s not even necessary to stay in

these expensive hotels. The hotels are not reserved for the richest 10,000, anyone can come a visit their halls, drink coffee in the bars or come for Sunday lunch. Of course it is easy to find luxury hotels in New York or along the

Côte d’Azur, but what’s the situation like in Croatia? There are Grand hotels here too, however where can one find a number of them in one place? Istria is well known for its tourist settlements that are well equipped but only in rare cases could we call them luxurious. It’s the same in Dalmatia, with the exception of a few really pleasant and fine hotels in Split and the surrounding area. One or two places – one in the north and the other in the far south – where more than one or two luxury hotels or villas await

TWO HOTELS YOU CAN FALL IN LOVE WITH

Water vision – the luxury and practicality of a pool with the scent of the nearby sea wafting by

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MILENIJ

HILTON IMPERIAL

The Opatija Hotel Milenij is one of our favourite hotels on the Croatian Adriatic coast. A special advantage is accommodation right in the heart of Opatija and an excellent coffee house with cakes

This is the first hotel in Croatia that bears the name of the well known world hotel chain. Located right next to the old town centre of Dubrovnik CROATIA

A place for dreams – the Lounge bar in front of the most famous beach in Dubrovnik

their guests in Opatija and Dubrovnik. In these two very different towns you’ll not only find a cluster of villas and hotels, rather you will also experience the special feeling of good living. Today I have my new favourites among the hotel stars of Opatija. The architecture of Belle Epoque (Beautiful era) is unmistakable in Opatija at every step. Here, for example, is breakfast on the terrace of the Hotel Milenij, an oasis of peace in the tourist chaos. The sea and the waterfront before your eyes, while on your

The absolute best part is – the view. Along with superior interiors, what really makes these hotels something special are the view of the sea

plate delicacies: mixed fried fish, pršut lubenice (smoked ham watermelon), cheeses, fine caviar and champagne. Another star in the Hotel heaven in Opatija is Astorija. Admittedly it only has 4 stars but it charms its guests with designer interiors, a fine combination of the 50’s and modern décor. At night, when you move the curtains aside you can see the twinkling lights of the entire Kvarner bay. For decades the coffee house of the Hotel Imperial is the favourite of all strollers, but be sure not to miss the Wagner coffee house

IN THE HEART OR WITH A VIEW OF THE OLD TOWN HOTEL ARGENTINA

COFFEE WITH CREAM The Adriatic version of Viennese flair on offer in Opatija What tea is to Londoners, that is what coffee is to Opatija inhabitants. Since Viennese businessmen built Opatija as a winter residence for the nobility of Imperial Austria, coffee house life has been as equally developed here as in Vienna. This tradition has lived on in Opatija to the present day. The most popular coffee houses are Zentrumi Café Plame in the Hotel Bristol (picture below), which was also recently completely renovated. Be sure not to miss the coffee house Wagner in the Hotel Milenij which is located in what is possibly the most beautiful position, along the Opatija Slatina beach.

This location offers one of the best views of the old town centre of Dubrovnik. While swimming in its pool you’ll feel like James Bond

PUCIĆ PALACE Pucić Palace is like a stone diamond – located in the old town centre of Dubrovnik, it offers superior service CROATIA

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topic Villa Sheherezada The most expensive villa on the Croatian Adriatic opened up its doors to us The Villa Sheherezade is certainly the most luxurious house available for rent on the Croatian coast. The extraordinary interior design, luxuriant ambiance and the exclusive location with a view to the Dubrovnik Old Town is what makes this house unique.

As a contrast to the salon, the living room in the Villa Sheherezada is decorated in a modern style

As in the story of the 1001 nights, the Villa Sheherezada fascinates

The salon of the Villa Sheherezada transports us to a completely different time and other worlds

in the Milenij Hotel or Café Palme in the Hotel Bristol. It is very romantic in the Hotel Mozart which looks like a huge pink cake. I have particularly fond memories of the Dubrovnik hotels. In the cold shape of stone glows the charm and magnificence of the world long gone, and when you wall through its narrow little streets you can still hear the melodies of the rises and falls of the strong Dubrovnik Republic. You can also experience immaculate style in the lobby of the Hotel Bellevue, decorated by sculp-

tures of the Croatian artist D. Džamonje, so too at dinner in the restaurant Nautica right by the old walls of the town. In the very centre of Dubrovnik you can find many 5 star hotels and a number of luxury villas of the highest category. The most beautiful and most expensive among them is the Villa Sheherezada. With its private beach in the immediate vicinity of the old town, it transforms into a real fairytale of 1001 nights and thus emphasising the luxury here is not necessary. As its old walls encircle

the old town, today Dubrovnik is surrounded by luxury palaces of the south – Argentina, Excelsior, Villa Orsula, Villa Elita and the Hilton Imperial are only some of the five star hotels and each of them has its own Charm. However one small and special hotel can be found within the old walls, in the very heart of the town – Pucić Palace. Many will say that 2010 is not the year for extravagant spending. However it is precisely now that you can stay in many expensive hotels for less than ever before.

Excellent hotels, superb restaurants and cultural events - this is what Opatija and Dubrovnik offer

First class cuisine is not foreign to Dubrovnik and Opatija

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Dubrovnik also has excellent museums and galleries to visit

Be sure to also visit some of the good wine cellars

Should you pass by this shop window with your lady or not?

CROATIA

A romantic time-out in the shade of the konoba (wine cellar) of the old town of Lubenice. If you’re the romantic type, Lubenice is the place for you

LUBENICE

The road to Lubenice looks like something out of a Harry Potter story, while the town looks like it has remained frozen in time 300 years ago

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Full of relaxation An unbelievable place, with an even more unbelievable beach and a fantastic atmosphere THIS is truly a fairytale spot. We dropped by Lubenice during our trip to the island of Cres last year in August. It was peak summer season and the beaches on the nearby island of Lošinj were crowded with people. The road leading to Lubenice is equally amazing as the place itself. From the main road that connects

the islands of Cres and Lošinj, you turn onto an side road – a little adventure in itself – the width of the road is just a little wider than your car, there are dry-stone walls shoulder-height on both sides and Mediterranean plants that look like they want to swallow you and your car. First, you’ll feel uncomfortable

The town Lubenice is located 385 metres above sea level and dominates it’s surroundings

CROATIA

Old Lady Kata gives extra flair to the town Lubenice

on this road but soon enough after a few kilometres you’ll be “taken in” by the amazing atmosphere – like entering the land of Harry Potter. The whole experience is enhanced by the arrival to Lubenice- a town consisting of only a few houses, a konoba (wine cellar) and an old church that exudes an amazing calmness. In peak summer season there were only a few tourists here, still you don’t feel lonely but rather blissful –peaceful. The view is fantastic and the beach below the town (approx. 45 min walk) is a story in itself. Highly recommended!

From Lubenice there’s a view of the beautiful beach. Those who are up for it, the beach is only a 45 minute walk away…

23 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

topic

While sailing, as there is not noise from the motor, you will often see dolphins Forget crowded beaches – when sailing you can enjoy the pleasure of your own company

Endless pool – there is nothing better than entering the sea from your yacht

SAILING

Complete freedom Sailing is not only a pleasure for those with a deep pocket. Discover the most beautiful side of the Adriatic... YOU LIKE the Croatian Adriatic as your holiday destination but you can’t decide whether you’d prefer to spend your summer somewhere in Istria, or around Dubrovnik, but the islands of

Hvar, Brač or Vis also sound attractive. In the evening you like to stroll by the sea in some old little town, dinning in some fine restaurant and drinking a cocktail or two in a bar, but you

don’t like the crowds throughout the day at the beaches near these places. You like to holiday in urban centres but you also adore nature... How do you combine these demands and wishes in only a week or two of your summer holiday? The answer is simple – hire a yacht! Today hiring a yacht is no longer as expensive as it once was if you join together with friends

There is nothing better than laying on the bow, looking out into the open sea with a gentle breezes blows over your body A short stop in the Modra Špilja (Blue Cave) on Vis. Here the light creates truly magical effects

24 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

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The best part of sailing is socialising you’re your friends

and share the costs. In this case, this phenomenal holiday should not cost you more than 500 Euros per person with all expenses included. For example, the yacht Bavaria 32 with a total of two cabins and six beds can be hired for a week for 1500 Euros – therefore, 250 Euros per person a week. When you add possible taxes, costs of food, etc.,

No wind? This is a nightmare of all sailing enthusiasts

this will not be more than 500 Euros per person. Even if no one in your team knows how to sail, hiring an expert skipper is a possible solution which in Croatia will cost from 100 Euros plus food. With these kinds of expenses which are not negligible but are also not astronomical, you will have truly memorable holiday. The best part of sailing is the freedom. One day you’re in Poreč in a fancy restaurant, next day on

the pebbly beach of the Kamenjak Point, on the third you can be on the Island of Cres, and in one week travel along the entire Adriatic coast. You will have equal access to the most beautiful towns like Poreč, Zadar, Split or Dubrovnik, The largest islands like Krk, Lošinj, Cres or Brač, but also the most hidden coves which you can enjoy all to yourself.

Lagoons and small islands that would otherwise be out of reach are now at your disposal. These kind of views are common in Dalmatia, especially in the Šibenik area

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25 2 5T TRAVE TRAVELLER RAVE RA RAV R AVE A AV VE V ELLE LLLE LL LLER LER ER ER SU SSUM SUMMER UM U M MMER MEEERR 220 MER M 2010 201 010 010 01 10

topic Ta s te l ove r s Sailing enthusiasts are known world wide to be real gourmets Sailing enthusiasts abroad but also in Croatia are known as lovers of good food. They make the things they like either in their kitchens on board or visit numerous restaurants and konobe (wine cellars) on the Adriatic islands whose owners open during the peak season.

Sailing means team work – both on deck and in the kitchen. Still, cooking in a yacht is a special experience Cheers! It’s a real pleasure to relax with a beer or wine after a full day of sailing

A few years ago, we in the editorial office tried all the different types of holiday on the Adriatic. From camping, private accommodation, small boutique family hotels, to the most luxurious 5 star hotels. Although we can’t say that we didn’t enjoy sleeping in small family hotels with 4 stars, a lovely breakfast and swimming in a private pool, but our fondest memories are of

Fresh meat and fish are the main offer of island restaurants

sailing in a yacht. We particularly recommend sailing in June or the beginning of July when its warm enough but the hire prices are a little less than in peak season, and there is enough wind to enjoy sailing. The same goes for early autumn – especially September. If you can, avoid sailing in peak season – in the month of August. In August hire prices are sky

It doesn’t have a motor to scare away dolphins, birds and fish. It is complete blending with nature and the sea

You can hire these kinds of boats on the Adriatic too

26 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Nature against technology ... Enjoyment is more a thing of perspective and taste

high, skippers are expensive, as is the food in restaurants, and often you’ll be frustrated because there is no wind. When choosing a sailing location, any location on the Croatian Adriatic where there is an island is a great choice, especially around Šibenik, Zadar and Split. So, go to Google and type in “Croatia, hire, sailing, prices”. You will be surprised with the offer and the various combinations of vessels available at reasonable prices.

Cat on a boat? This also happens sometimes and it gives an additional liveliness on the yacht

Some yachts are not for hire...

CROATIA

topic THE POOL The beach or the pool- is the eternal question. However, children are not concerned with that question anymore, they don’t need much for ultimate happiness and pleasure. Just remember your childhood when all that you needed for absolute happiness was a little water, a few friends and the endless imagination of children

BEACHES

Children’s max fun I learned to swim on the Croatian Adriatic sea, now it’s my little one’s turn

Stone after stone and the castle is almost finished

WE’VE FINALLY made it! We’re going to the beach! We quickly left our suitcases in our room, grabbed our towels and the party can begin. Who doesn’t remember those beautiful days on the beach with the whole family? Swimming, sun-tan-

ning, jumping, everything is allowed and accumulated stress disappears. With 5,385 km of shoreline, there’s a beach to suits everyone in Croatia. Everyone has their favourite: some like sandy beaches, some pebbly beaches, but

THE TOP 5 BEACHES FOR CHILDREN IN ISTRIA AND KVARNER A little sand, a little pebble, everyone has their favourite, it’s the best when it’s shallow and when there’s a slide and trampoline too 1

6 OK, let’s go! You take care of the oars and I’ll take care of the boat, hey you stop, don’t put it into the sea yet...

28 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

The Rajska beach on the island of Rab is the best in the opinion of many

2

4

7 The sandy beach in Medulin is heaven for children

9 The auto camp Čikat on the Island of Lošinj has a rich programme for children

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5

8 The Vela beach in Baška on the Island of Krk comes in third place

10 Rabac beach is a good combination for both big and small

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For many adults the sight of a beach overflowing with people is a nightmare. For children this is a dream come true

The Lolić beach in Pirovac is truly heaven for children. The shallow sea and bay ensure the water is warm even in June

those who have children know that a beach must offer a bit more than just clean water. A good indicator are blue flags – an independent recognition of the cleanliness and level of equipment on the beaches. Today this flag flutters on more than 100 beaches in Croatia. On the coming pages I would like to give you personal top-list of beaches most suitable for children, starting from the north all the way to the far south. The most beautiful

The shallow, kilometre-long sandy beach in Medulin is a favourite with the little ones

beach of the Kvarner Bay is Vela beach in Baška on the Island of Krk. Unfortunately, this beach has one big downfall – in the peak summer season it’s packed. A plus side to this beach is its gentle slope, thus being suitable for all nonswimmers. Of course, my little superhero has his favourite and like most children he prefers sandy beaches. The beach Bijeca in Medulin in Istria is a like a beach from a horror film for all parents

and the biggest knee high children’s pool in the whole region. The beach is ideal for burying parents, building sand-castles and many hours of splashing around in the shallows, where the water is exceptionally warm. A shortcoming of the beach is its lack of shade. Another great beach for the whole family in Kvarner is the Rajska

THE TOP 5 BEACHES FOR CHILDREN IN ISTRIA AND KVARNER Dalmatia literally offers thousands of beautiful larger and smaller beaches that nature has made specifically for children 1

2

12 Children also adore the Slanica beach on the island of Murter

14 Primošten offers a whole range of children’s beaches

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The Salbunika beach in Nin near Zadar is our favourite

The Brela beach is a heavenly beach for the little ones and adults too

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4

5

15 The beach Copacabana in Dubrovnik is a great choice

In the opinion of those in the know, the sandy Rajska beach on the island of Rab is the best children’s beach in Croatia

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topic The land of enjoyment The children take the day on the beach more seriously than we adults Do you remember when you were a kid and you couldn’t sleep the night before leaving for the sea because of all the excitement. Keep in mind that your little ones experience the same when opening the doors into completely new worlds

To protect them from sunburn, you should purchase a little tent for the beach in a local store The beach is an ideal place for the socialisation of children and becoming acquainted with new cultures and languages

Being on the beach till late at night is an ideal summer day for our little ones

beach in Lopar on the Island of Rab. On this beach the children become creative builders, whose sand-castles grow into colossal constructions. Of course, the advice of mum, dad or a big sister is welcome. Further south in Dalmatia there is an even bigger selection of beaches for children than in Istria and Kvarner, taking in consideration that the slope here is milder towards the sea. That way the children can spend hours playing without losing the ground beneath them and there’s more shade on these beaches. One of the

most beautiful and natural sandy beaches here is Sabunike in Nin. Here you’ll find nice, warm sand, lots of water and room for every building project. You will surely enjoy feeling the sand beneath your feet. Other than Sabunike, it’s worth going to Zaton, only a few kilometres further. There you’ll find a well equipped beach with a fun-park, restaurants and many other facilities. In Biograd the beach Soline is on offer for all little explorers and other than swimming and sand digging, the walks along the beach are especially entertain-

Think like a child. Enjoyment for children on the beach is something completely different than it is for you

A mask and snorkel are all that your little explorer needs

30 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

The beach animators are there to make sure that no one is bored

ing. Further south, the beaches are often pebbly beaches and I can recommend the Lolić beach in Pirovac or the beaches in Primošten. Primošten, being a peninsula offers the advantage of a constant wind. If you prefer calmer seas, select the side that is less windy. The sunsets are exceptionally beautiful on the beach Velika Raduča in Primošten. The most beautiful pebbly beach along the whole coast is the one in Brela on the Makarska Riviera. It is best to ask for detailed information beforehand on the internet or in a travel agency. That way, you will be able to decide if you’ve chosen the right holiday retreat for the whole family.

These “little thieves” have found there place in the shade and it’s time for action

The little athlete could spend hours jumping on this trampoline

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Best range of sports gear for your active holiday!

Visit INTERSPORT’s stores! INTERSPORT STORES: INTERSPORT PULA 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Šijanska cesta 1, tel: 052/377-493 INTERSPORT ZAGREB 1,MERCATOR CENTAR Vukovarska 269 b,tel: 01/600-5555 INTERSPORT SPLIT 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Antuna Gustava Matoša 10, tel:021/204-400 INTERSPORT ZADAR 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Ul.Bleiburških žrtava 17, tel: 023/200-462 INTERSPORT V.GORICA 1 Slavka Kolara 6, tel:01/6221-187 INTERSPORT OSIJEK 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Gacka 10, tel: 031/223-900 INTERSPORT ĐAKOVO 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Vladimira Nazora 6, tel: 031/840-367 INTERSPORT DUBROVNIK 1 Vukovarska 26, tel: 020/358-697 INTERSPORT METKOVIĆ 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Splitska 1,tel: 020/690-473 INTERSPORT KARLOVAC 1, TC KARLOVČANKA Trg M.Šuflaja 1,tel: 047/609-756 INTERSPORT SAMOBOR 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Ul.Bleiburških žrtava 1945, tel: 01/3378-000 INTERSPORT ČAKOVEC 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Jakova Gotovca b.b., tel:b040/314-727

INTERSPORT KARLOVAC 2, MERCATOR CENTAR Mihanovićeva 9, tel: 047/658-150 INTERSPORT ZAGREB 2 Trg B.Jelačića 7, tel: 01/4811-940 INTERSPORT ČAKOVEC 2, MERCATOR CENTAR Zagrebačka 87, tel: 040/370-427 INTERSPORT MEGASTORE RIJEKA 1, TOWER CENTAR Janka Polić Kamova 81/A, tel: 051/459/733 INTERSPORT ŠIBENIK 1, CENTAR CITY LIFE Ante Šupuka 10, tel: 022/312-671 INTERSPORT ZAGREB 3, MERCATOR CENTAR Zagrebačka avenija 94, tel: 01/6329-022 INTERSPORT RIJEKA, MERCATOR CENTAR Osječka 71, tel: 051/680-438 INTERSPORT KRIŽEVCI 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Ul.Petra Zrinskog 8, tel: 048/628-211 INTERSPORT LABIN 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Istarska 50, tel: 052/851-506 INTERSPORT KOPRIVNICA 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Ul.Kneza Domagoja 5,tel: 048/628-237 INTERSPORT VARAŽDIN 1, MERCATOR CENTAR Ul.Gustava Krkleca 1A, tel: 042/659-915

The biggest sports gear store in Croatia! INTERSPORT MEGASTORE WEST GATE 1 WEST GATE CENTAR Zaprešićka ulica, tel: 01/6408-741 FRANCHISE STORES: INTERSPORT Zagreb Teslina 13, tel. 01/4872-206 INTERSPORT Zagreb Domjanićeva 18, tel. 01/2335-860

CREDIT CARDS Credit card consumer loans: Master Card Zabe, American Express.

%

Ušteda uz Pika karticu

PIKA DISCOUNTS Price for Pika card users. MERCATOR PIKA CARDS Take advantage of the benefits of the Mercator Pika card and interest free loan of up to 12 instalments. Intersport H d.o.o. HBZ 1, Velika Gorica

www.intersport.com.hr

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LIDL STORES ON CROATIAN COAST

1

POREČ

14

Mate Vlašića 36 MON-SAT

SUN

08-22 h 08-22 h 2

ROVINJ Štanga bb

MON-SAT

SUN

5

Labinska 2a SUN

08-22 h 08-22 h 4

Zelenice 41 MON-SAT

SUN

08-22 h 08-22 h

SUN

08-21 h 08-21 h 6

RIJEKA SUN

08-21 h 08-21 h 7

ZADAR

Put Gaćeleza 3a

9

SUN

08-21 h 08-21 h

ŠIBENIK V. Škorpika bb

MON-SAT

SUN

08-22 h 08-21 h

TROGIR

Plano-Aerodrom 1 pr MON-SAT

SUN

08-22 h 08-21 h

B. Benkovića 17 MON-SAT

08-22 h 08-21 h Put Lore 4 MON-SAT

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SINJ

Pavla Vučkovića 17 MON-SAT

SUN

08-21 h



13

15

IMOTSKI

METKOVIĆ Splitska ulica

SUN

08-21 h 08-14 h

SUN

08-20 h 08-14 h

MON-SAT

SUN

08-21 h 08-14 h 16

DUBROVNIK

Gornja Čibača 16 MON-SAT

SUN

08-21 h 08-18 h

Glavina Donja 346 MON-SAT

SUN

Even on holidays!

Seriously Cheaper. 32 TRAVELLER LJETO 2010

SUN

MON-SAT

08-21 h 08-14 h 08-2

SUN

08-21 h 08-21 h

MON-SAT

PLOČE Vranjak

Poljička cesta 37

SUN

08-22 h 08-21 h

10

Benkovačka cesta 2

VODICE

MON-SAT

Osječka 67a

MON-SAT

LABIN

8

43. istarske divizije 11A

MON-SAT

PULA

MON-SAT

PAZIN

MON-SAT

08-22 h 08-22 h 3

SPLIT

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www.lidl.hr HRVATSKA

towns

The popular Lavanda bar is equally interesting to both children and adults

Luksuzni hotel “Ilirija” smješten je tik uz more i gostima nudi vrhunski komfor In Biograd you can take a trip with a tourist submarine

BIOGRAD 16

A new view From a rundown fishing town to an interesting holiday location... WHEN we visited Biograd for the first time six years ago it was quite a rundown locality. Actually, given that it was a historical town in which Croatian kings were once crowned and from which, due to its traditions, we expected much, we were quite disappointed. Today our impression is complete-

ly different. In any case much more positive. The hotels here have been renovated, the lawns are well kept, while the cafés exude a wonderful Mediterranean atmosphere, but still with everything clean and tidy. As opposed to our impression from a few years ago, today’s Biograd truly captures one with the “I want to stay here” atmosphere. This impression is certainly added to by the natural beauty of the

The close proximity of the Kornati archipelago and two small ports for yachts attract a multitude of yachting enthusiasts to Biograd

town itself but also the surrounding area and its excellent location. Barely half an hour to Zadar, the same distance to Šibenik, close to the beautiful National Park Kornati. In combination with sandy beaches in the centre of the locality, numerous excursions offered here, beautiful cafés, pizzeria and restaurant, and interesting facilities for children, Biograd has become and excellent location for a quality family holiday.

Progress In the last few years, Biograd has progressed significantly. From a rundown locality to an interesting and modern tourist destination with a multitude of activities and facilities.

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33 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

culture SUMMER FESTIVAL Even if you’re not a fan of classical art, the opening of Dubrovnik Summer Festival is truly a special experience. Everyone just has to catch their breath with this kind of fireworks. The pinnacle of the fireworks display is the lighting up of the entire old part of Dubrovnik. The town lights up this way only two times a year – for Christmas and for the opening of the Summer Festival

BRAČ WHEN THE NIGHT COMES...

Festival fever The traditional festivals along the Adriatic coast can additionally excite the senses during your holiday

The Russian lute virtuoso – Karamazov, thrilled the Split public

The classic music concert in the Old town hall in Dubrovnik is a regular musical treat of the Summer Festival

34 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

WHEN lying on a beach in Croatia, while dinning in a restaurant on the Adriatic or simply sitting and enjoying yourself in a cafe or beach bar, you can often hear the specific music of the Croatian Adriatic. Maybe the most famous, already legendary performers of such melancholy music are, for example, the Croatian Oliver Dragojević, Arsen Dedić, Miško Kovač or Tereza Kesovija. We are sure that if you spend even a week on holidays in Croatia, you will at least once, on some terrace, hear Oliver Dragojević singing about the sea and Galeb (seagulls). The majority of these songs have become so

engrained among Croatians that many may think that they are Croatian folk songs, songs that are many hundred years old – but they aren’t. These songs have their authors and the majority originated in the golden age of Croatian Adriatic festivals about 20 or 30 so

Enjoy the sounds of classic Dalmatian Klapa (traditional acapella singing groups) at the festival in Omiš

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Atmosphere of the Children’s Festival in Šibenik

While dancing the tango it’s easy to forget the summer heat and surrender yourself to other types of dreams

years ago. This was the golden age of Croatian golden music, while the golden location of these festivals was Dalmatia – for the most part Split. The Split Festival is still alive and kicking today, and although its significance is no longer what it used to be, in the last two or three years, the Split Festival has come

to include not only interesting music, but rather also operettas and theatre performances worthy of admiration. And although the golden age of newly composed music like that of Oliver Dragojević is in the past, this Croatian festival has found its rebirth in hosting top class guest performers from throughout the world and also performances of classical music and theatre masterpieces. This is also where the phenomenal Dubrovnik Festival finds its roots – the Dubrovnik

Summer Festival – is a true summer treat for all lovers of classic arts. On the other hand, for families with children, we warmly recommend the now legendary Children’s Festival in Šibenik, where the main stars of the theatre and music performances are first and foremost – children. Be sure to check your calendar well and enjoy in the arts this summer.

The impressive performance of Croatian and international actor’s in Split

Last summer, Verdi’s classic “The Troubadour” was the highlight of the Split evenings

Pippi Longstocking as a kind of mascot of the Children’s Festival in Šibenik

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35 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

culture A typical evening atmosphere. Every street performer knows that it takes special effort to keep the street audience. That is why all these performances are of great quality

Attention, attention! For this kind of acrobatics you need a high level of concentration and many hours of previous practice. It’s lucky that the audience appreciates these performances

Impressive, breath-taking performances of street artists

STREET ART 17

Street artists They said NO to the classic stages and thus come to Poreč every year LIFE IN THE STREET is something special, especially in the Mediterranean. Here the people socialise in the street, chat, exchange the latest gossip – in one word- they still live and enjoy the lifestyle that was common all over the western world 100 or 200 years ago, that has been lost in today’s modern life with phones, e-mail, Facebook and Skype. The special liveliness of the Mediterranean streets is the same when the world stage set-

36 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

tles in the same Adriatic street. You can find out what a special experience this is if you visit

What are these two clowns doing? Perhaps we better don’t know…

the Poreč Street Art Festival this summer in August – a manifestation of artists from all over the world that has become legendary in small Istrian town. Again this summer, the artists in Poreč will entertain and make passers-by laugh with their juggling, acrobatic, theatrical and musical performances. The festival is supported by the town of Poreč and it’s organised by the Open University in Poreč, our editorial office is also a big fan of this event which we visit regularly. For more information about this unique cultural event on the Croatian coast of the Adriatic where you can meet interesting people from all of Europe visit : www.saf.hr. Maybe this year we’ll meet in Poreč.

CROATIA

WHEN SHOPPING IN CROATIA, LOOK FOR THIS SIGN NOWDAYS IT IS MORE AND MORE DIFFICULT TO FIND AFFORDABLE QUALITY GOODS, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE ABROAD, USING FOREIGN CURRENCY AND BUYING UNKNOWN PRODUCTS... „BEST BUY AWARD“ LABEL POINTS OUT THE BEST VALUE FOR MONEY PRODUCTS „Best Buy Award“ is a certificate and a medal used to mark the products and services that offer you the best value for money you can find in Croatia. The registered method of research „Best Buy Award – DEEPMA“ was developed by Axios in co-operation with PricewaterhouseCoopers, the world’s leading company for audit and consulting. The „Best Buy Award“ survey in Croatia was conducted by

the GfK – a market research company, which is part of the GfK Group with head office in Nurnberg, Germany. The next time you go shopping in Croatia you should be aware that the „Best Buy Award“ can label only the product or the service recognised by Croatian consumers as that of the top-quality at reasonable prices. More information avaliable at: www.bestbuyaward.org

They say a way to someone’s heart is through the stomach however the beautiful view of the Kornati islands in Dalmatia is also a feast for the eyes! So take your meal with you and enjoy a picnic in nature!

Quick and tasty Tasty and healthy Fast-food a la Adria Fantastic beaches, excellent weather and fine cuisine ensure that every holiday is a great experience. However, who wants to spend hours cooking over a hot stove during their holidays? To help you with this, together with Lidl, we have prepared some quick and inexpensive Mediterranean meals which you can easily prepare yourself

38 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

CROATIA

Pork fillets with paprika-gnocchi Recipe on page 51

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39 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Sunny-side-up Sandwich Recipe on page 43

40 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

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I

t’s doesn’t only have to be hamburgers, oysters can be fast-food too.” It doesn’t always take hours to prepare good meals, as was so well put by Christoph Wagner. It is especially important that, during holidays, meals are prepared quickly and if possible inexpensively. The very title of this article speaks for itself: quick and inexpensive! Therefore pass over everything that is fresh and crunchy: it is the season of salads, tomatoes, peppers and zucchini, and fish too is in demand at this time of year. Summer pasta with chicken, zucchini, onions sautéed in red wine – together with Lidl, we have put together and prepared tasty meals and we want to share their magic with you. We have tried to put together meals that don’t have too many individual ingredients, ones that you can easily find in your holiday destinations, but also when you return home in your closest Lidl store. If you can’t find one or another ingredient or if you don’t like one, just replace it with something similar. Be creative. Let’s say we take the example of pre-cooked meals. Often they have quite a bland taste. Our advice is: spice it up a little – add a little salt,

Discover the charms of quick Mediterranean cuisine with the recipes that we have put together with Lidl in this Adria Traveller Prepare superior meals yourselves quickly and inexpensively

Feel like you’re in an elite restaurant

On the Adriatic, barbeques are part of summer but are also a fast and healthy way of preparing food

CROATIA

some pepper or flavouring and you have a tasty meal. During holidays when you don’t want to be in the kitchen but rather swimming at the beach, pre-cooked meals are especially great in combination with something you have cooked yourself. In Lidl, in particular, we have stumbled across interesting products like antipasti, seafood salads, Čevapčići or ready-made pancake mixes. Among the recipes are meals you can prepare for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. Of course we haven’t forgotten to add a dessert and a cocktail and smoothie here and there. But where does this desire for food and fine meals come from? The recipes we have selected for you together with Lidl are the answer to this question. Let them enchant you!

41 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Stuffed tomatoes Recipe on page 43

Frittata (open faced omelette) with swiss chard Recipe on page 45

Hake in aluminium foil

Penne pasta with chicken Recipe on page 46

Recipe on page 46

42 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

CROATIA

Sunny side up Sandwich with sheep cheese

1

4 2 Eggs 1 spoon of olive oil 4 slice of bacon 4 slice of toast 100 g sheep cheese 2 lettuce leaves 2 tomatoes 2 spoons of butter salt, pepper

2

Preparation

Ingredients purchased in Lidl

Toast and butter bread. Prepare this way: 1 Slowly fry eggs and bacon in a frying pan on olive oil and place somewhere warm. 2 Cut tomato into slices and season with salt and pepper. 3 Divide the sheep cheese between the two pieces of toast and cover with the other piece of toast and add salt and pepper. 4 Add the lettuce and tomato, slice the bacon and add to the sandwich. Finally place an egg on the top.

3

Advice Instead of sheep cheese, you can also use feta cheese, and ketchup also tastes really good with this meal.

Stuffed baked tomatoes with fresh cheese

5 6 tomatoes 1 spoon of olive oil 200 g fresh cheese 3 spoons of chopped basil

1 1

spoon of olive oil spoon of grated parmesan cheese salt, pepper

Preparation 1 Cut off the top part of the tomatoes and hollow them out. 2 Finely cut the removed tomato insides and mix it with fresh cheese and leave to cool. 3 Salt and pepper the tomatoes and bake in the oven for 6 minutes at 195ºC. 4 Mix the basil with the olive oil and parmesan cheese.

CROATIA

Serving suggestions Stuff the baked tomatoes with fresh cheese and pour over the basil pesto and decorate with fresh basil.

43 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Čevapčići with onions and ajvar (relish with red peppers and eggplant) Recipe on page 45

44 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

CROATIA

Frittata (open faced omelette) with swiss chard or spinach and melted cheese spread

Čevapčići with onions and ajvar (relish with red peppers and eggplant)

5 6 1 2 1

eggs spoons of olive oil pieces of melted cheese spoon of sour cream

50 g fresh swiss chard (fresh or frozen spinach leaves) salt, pepper

Preparation

Serving suggestions

1 Thoroughly wash the swiss chard or spinach. 2 Mix the eggs with the sour cream and season with salt and pepper. 3 Heat olive oil in a pan and add the mixture. 4 Add the swiss chard and melted cheese. Bake everything together for 10 minutes in a preheated oven at 190ºC.

Place the frittata on a cutting board and cut into slices. It can be decorated with fresh spinach.

9 300 g Čevapčići salt 1 spoon olive oil 2 small onions White bread tomatoes peppers cucumber

1

2

Preparation

Ingredients purchased in Lidl

Take the čevapčići out of their packaging and separate. Prepare this way: 1 Grill the čevapčići on a barbeque or frying pan. 2 In the meantime slice the onions. 3 Slice fresh seasonal vegetables, like peppers, tomatoes or cucumbers, of choice into pieces, add salt and pour a little olive oil over them. 4 Cut white bread into slices and serve with the grilled čevapčići, onions, ajvar (relish with red peppers and eggplant) and vegetables.

3

Serving suggestions Čevapčići also taste great with mustard and ketchup.

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45 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Hake in foil with tasty vegetables

11 2 1 2 1/2

pieces of hake zucchini spoons of olive oil red peppers

1

can of seafood salad spoon of olive oil salt, pepper small onion

Serving suggestions Open the foil and place the fish and vegetables on a plate and decorate with thyme.

olives lettuce leaves red pepper

Preparation

Serving suggestions If you want to beef up this simple salad, boil 2 potatoes, dice them up and mix them with the seafood salad.

46 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

carrot small tomatoes thyme salt, pepper

Preparation

1 Wash and cut the lettuce leaves, and arrange them on the plate. 2 Cut the onion into thin slices and mix with olives and seafood salad. Season with oil, salt and pepper and place on the lettuce. 3 Garnish with red peppers and dill.

Penne pasta with chicken and rocket salad

1 8

1 Peel and cut the carrots and other vegetables into slices, and season. 2 Place the fish and vegetables in the middle of the foil, pour over olive oil and fold the foil together. 3 Bake in a preheated oven for 20 minutes at 185ºC.

20 1 1

Ingredients purchased in Lidl

“Jadran” salad with seafood and olives

8 200 g skinless chicken breast 250 g penne pasta 1 small onion 50 g rocket salad

5-6 2 1

small tomatoes cloves of garlic spoon of olive oil salt, pepper, parmesan

Preparation

Serving suggestions

1 Slice the onions and fry them in a frying pan with the diced chicken 2 Boil the penne pasta in salted water “al dente” (see instructions on the packaging). 3 Add the tomatoes and continue frying for about 3 – 4 minutes. 4 Wash the rocket salad and cut of the ends.

Mix the penne pasta with the meat, vegetables and rocket salad and serve on a plate with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese.

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“Jadran” salad Recipe on page 46

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47 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Mussel brudet (stew) with polenta

1

15 1 kg 1 2 1 4 2 2

mussels glass of white wine carrots parsley root and 1 onion tomatoes cloves of garlic spoons of olive oil salt, pepper, parsley, olive oil 140 g polenta

2

Preparation

Ingredients purchased in Lidl

Wash and clean the shells well. Prepare this way: 1 Quickly fry the onions, garlic, carrots and parsley root on some olive oil, then add white wine and an equal amount of water, season with salt and pepper. 2 Dice the tomatoes and add them to the soup. Continue cooking until the vegetables are almost cooked. 3 Add the shells and continue cooking in a closed pot (approx. 15 minutes). 4 Cook the polenta in a pot with ½ litre of water, a little salt and olive oil for 5 minutes until it becomes thick.

3

Serving suggestions Divide the shells among the plates and pour over the sauce.

Shrimp and zucchini risotto

7 1 cup of rice for the risotto 250 g shrimps 1 small onion and 1 zucchini 1/8 l white wine

48 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

3 spoons of butter 600 ml hot fish soup 2 spoons of olive oil salt, pepper

Preparation

Serving suggestions

1 Slice the onions and fry together with the rice on hot oil quickly. 2 Pour over the wine and some of the fish soup, simmer while adding the rest of the soup. 3 Finely cut the zucchini and shrimps, add to the rice and cook for another 5 minutes. 4 Turn off the heat, add butter and parsley and allow to sit for 1 minute.

Sprinkle parsley over the hot risotto and serve immediately. If you add garlic to the risotto while cooking it will have a really delicious flavour.

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Antipasti Recipe on page 51

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49 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Mussel brudet (stew) with polenta Recipe on page 48

50 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

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Pork fillet with gorgonzola and peppers gnocchi

Ingredients purchased in Lidl

9 250 g pork fillet 100 g gorgonzola 2 handfuls of gnocchi 1/2 red and green peppers

2 1

Preparation

Serving suggestions

1 Salt and pepper the pork, then fry in a frying pan together with the peppers cut into thin strips. 2 Boil the gnocchi in a pot of salted water until they float to the top. 3 Drain the gnocchi and mix with the peppers and finely chopped thyme. 4 Place the gorgonzola on the meat.

Divide the gnocchi and peppers among the plates and place the meat and gorgonzola on top.

Tasty antipasti with olives and tomatoes

8 3

2

glass jars of ready-made antipasti (zucchini, eggplant, peppers) onions

6 1 2

small tomatoes branch of rosemary spoons of olive oil olives, salt, pepper

Preparation

Serving suggestions

1 Wash and halve the tomatoes, then quickly fry in a frying pan. 2 Peel and slice the onions into thin strips. 3 Take the various antipasti from the glass jars (e.g. zucchini, eggplant and peppers) and mix and arrange them with the onion, tomatoes and olives.

Pour over a little olive oil and salt to taste. You can serve white bread with this meal.

Roast beef with onions in red wine and vegetables with rosemary

spoons of butter spoon of olive oil salt, pepper finely chopped thyme

11 250 g Roast beef (2 steaks) 1 spoon of olive oil 2 small onions 1/4 l red wine

1 1

spoon of butter packet of Mediterranean vegetables salt, pepper

Vorbereitung 1 Season the roast beef and fry it quickly on all sides and leave somewhere warm. 2 In the same frying pan fry the onions cut into quarters and pour over the red wine, and sauté. When the wine evaporates add the butter to bind everything together. 3 At the same time, in another frying pan, sauté the vegetables with rosemary.

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Serving suggestions Divide the vegetables and onions with sauce among the plates, add the roast beef and serve.

51 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Cocktails Istrian Dream & Dalmatian Sunset

1

6 Dalmatian Sunset: 2 oz Cognac 100 ml orange juice 1 tea spoon of brown sugar cinnamon Istrian Dream: 2 oz cream 1 1/2 oz Irish cream 1/2 oz Amaretto Preparation Prepare a sufficient amount of ice, crush a part of it. Prepare this way: 1 Place the individual cocktail ingredients into a shaker or a plastic container with a lid if you don’t have a shaker at hand, add the crushed ice and shake well. 2 Prepare decorations. For the Dalmatian dram cut thin strips of orange peel. For the Istrian dream wet the rim of the glasses and dip in the cinnamon to create a fine edge. Add ice to the glasses and pour the cocktail.

Ingredients purchased in Lidl

Serving suggestions Put colourful straws and mixing sticks in the cocktails.

Smoothie with oranges and raspberries

4 3 oranges 100 g raspberries (frozen) 200 g yogurt 3 spoons of honey

52 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

2

mint vanilla ice-cream lemon juice

Preparation

Serving suggestions

Let the raspberries thaw a little. Prepare this way: 1 Mix the raspberries with honey and the juice of one lemon 2 Peel the oranges and cut into pieces, take out the pips 3 Mix the ice-cream, yogurt and orange pieces together.

Add yogurt and raspberry crème in layers. Decorate with fresh raspberries and mint.

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Fragrant salad with cantaloupe on porridge pudding

5 500 ml milk 2 vanilla sticks 50 g porridge 1/2 cantaloupe

4 spoons of icing sugar 500 g raspberries 200 ml white wine 200 g sweet cream

Preparation

Serving suggestions

1 Bring the milk with the vanilla sticks and 2 spoons of sugar to boil, add porridge and continue cooking for 5 minutes. 2 Whip the sweet cream and blend into the cooled porridge pudding. 3 Mix the raspberries together with the sugar and wine and heat the mixture up. After the sauce cools add a little Maraschino (sour cherry liqueur). 4 Cut the cantaloupe into slices.

Divide the cream among the bowls, add the raspberry sauce and decorate with cantaloupe.

1

Pancakes with ice-cream and hot chocolate

11 400 ml milk 1 packet of pancake mix 1 tub of stracciatella ice-cream 50 g dark chocolate 3 spoons of milk 1 spoon of butter 1 spoon of icing sugar 8 spoons of sunflower oil

2

Preparation Break the chocolate into pieces. Prepare this way: 1 Add milk to the pancake mix until you have a smooth batter. 2 Fry the pancakes in a frying pan with a spoon of oil per pancake. 3 Heat the chocolate with butter and milk until it becomes a smooth sauce. 4 Fill the pancakes with ice-cream, place two pancakes in each plate and sprinkle them with icing sugar. Ingredients purchased in Lidl

3

Serving suggestions Drizzle chocolate sauce over the pancakes.

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53 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

shopping

Original Croatian products Here is our selection of several original Croatian souvenirs

03 01

02

07

08

01

02

03

Delicious sour cookies

Dalmatian music

Aromatica Histria

Paprenjaci (Pepper Cookies) is an original Croatian product, made in Croatia for centuries. Honey, pepper, nutmeg, lemon, walnut, clove, all in one bit … yummy!

Dalmatian music is the most popular type of music at the Croatian Adriatic coast. You can hear it often on restaurant terraces in Croatia. Buy the latest CD…

Products labeled with Aromatica are great. This gift set containing natural shampoos, Adriatic salt, Adriatic soap is our top choice…

07

08

09

Neckties for the little ones

Cup with Glagolitic script

BeCroat T-Shirt

You probably know that Croatia is the mother country of the necktie. Here in a cute version – for babies.

The historical Croatian Glagolitic script was used in Croatia long before the Latin. With its exotic touch, this cup bearing the historical script will always remind you of Croatia.

“Be loud, be Croat”. Attractive design, appealing message. Well, useful when Croatia plays against England, Croatia loses and you are on a Croatian beach…

12 Naive art

09

Paintings on glass made with the so-called naive technique opened for Croatia the doors to prominent world’s artistic circles. Highly recommended.

12

54 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

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shopping

05

04

04

05

06

I love Croatia

Mini-village just for you

Sugar roasted almonds

Do not want to spend too much, dislike large souvenirs, still want a small thing to remember this summer in Croatia – idea – get a key tag.

In many places in Croatia you can buy small replicas of villages from the Croatian coastal region. Cute, well-priced souvenir for everyone.

Ragusea is a Croatian brand specialized in natural fancy foods. Our choice: traditional sugar roasted almonds.

10

11

Stone vase

Croatian olive oil

The White House in Washington was built of the Brač stone. You can certainly afford this hand made stone vase.

Quality olive oils from Croatia win important world awards. Regale yourself with a bottle of the best.

13

06

11

13

14

Bottle of Pelinkovac

Croatian ceramics

Pelinkovac is a native Croatian liqueur similar to the well-known Jägermeister. Slightly bitter, but guarantees relaxation.

This small ceramic shoe is hand-made in the style of the folklore typical for the Croatian midland – in particular the villages near the capital Zagreb.

10 14

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55 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Best Buy Award

Quality and value The goods with the “Best Buy Award” mark offer you the best value for money you can find in Croatia Award” medal. Here are some of the most interesting products that won this award in their own category.

IF YOU ARE after the best value for money in Croatia, the easiest way to find it is to look for the “Best Buy

Probiotic B-Aktiv

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O t WW W. RATI BE ITY AL

PRICE T EST OQ EB U TH

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EB TH

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Turkey meat delicacies If you are staying in private accomodation or camping while on a holiday in the Adriatic, and looking for a fast and quality meal, the solution is Vindon fresh meat brand. The picture shows turkey meatloaf. We tasted it – yummy!

IO t WWW RAT .B ITY E AL

EST PRICE T EB O QU TH

CS OFFER IOTI ING OB PR

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RD.ORG AWA tF UY O TB

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JUICES OF NAL FE RI TIO N NC

B-Aktiv is the best known and most popular probiotic in Croatia. This product was awarded the “Best Buy Award” d” in the probiotics category, sincee it was rated the best value for money.

Healthy juices Vindija juices received the “Best Buy Award” in several categories: fruit juices, functional and isotonic drinks,... GI control juices are highly recommended.

QU

The best bank

56 TRAVELLER SUMMERR 2010

IO t WWW RAT .B ITY E AL

EAT OFFER HM ING ES FR

Vegeta is the original product of Croatia which has has been present internationally for decades. Best Buy Award was awarded to Vegeta in the condiments category.

R YAWA D.ORG BU t ST

PRICE T EST OQ EB U TH

Legendary Vegeta

Zagrebačka banka has won the trust of Croatian citizens as the bank which offers the best services for the price they pay. We recommend their cash dispensers if you need cash and their offices for the money exchange.

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O t WWW RATI .B ITY ES

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MEALS OF KED FE RI OO N EC

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OFFEE OFFE TC RIN AN ST

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Best Buy Award for Instant Coffee The well-known Nescafe brand has won the Croatian consumers trust and deserved the Best Buy Award in Instant coffe and Flavoured instant coffee categories, Excellent wake up call!

Top-quality hair shampoo You must have heard of Head&Shoulders. But did you know it was the very first anti-dandruff shampoo available at regular stores? In Croatia it is considered the best buy when it comes to hair shampoos.

A UYAW RD.OR TB G ES

tM

OFFERING ILK TH

If you want a quick cooked meal, Podravka canned food is an excellent choice. The photo shows tinned food that contains no additives or preservatives. Hence it is no surprise they won Best Buy Award in the Instant Meals category.

Kefir magic properties Exceptional helth benefits of Kefir have been known for ages and it received the “Best buy Award”. You will enjoy a chilled Kefir on a hot and sunny day. It is good for your digestion as well as summer hangovers.

IO t WW W. RAT B TY LI

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PRICE TO Q ST UA BE

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ATIO t WWW .B YR E LIT

OFFERING

Vindija milk is considered to be the best choice if you are looking for the best value for money for milk in Croatia. It complies with all EU standards.

WARD. UYA OR TB G ES

R EFI tK

Favourite milk

OOS OFF AMP ER SH IN

OFFERIN NKS G TH BA

RICE TO ST P QU BE A

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YAWARD.O RG BU ST

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Canned, yet healthy?

57 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

Fast Snack

Fast, cheap, nutritious When on vacation, it is good to have handy bites – on the beach, an outing or as a quick breakfast. We suggest

Ready made salads Ready made salads are a great solution for a quick meal. They are filling and contain enough vegetables to provide your body with vitamins. We found these in Lidl for less than a Euro (6.99 HRK).

Summer fruit Fruit is certainly the best recommendation for a quick summer meal. And summer in the Adriatic provides you lavishly with peach, watermelon, melon, apricot...

Biscuits It is good to have a packet of biscuits handy for an energy pick up.

Healthy Muesli

The American way

Kids delight

Dr. Oetker Vitalis Mueslis are healthy, while at the same time are the tastiest ones you can find on the Croatian market. Fast, light, healthy – just right for summer.

Donuts are an excellent choice for a quick filling meal. Recommended for breakfast or after swimming.

Children will surely love these delicious fruit yoghurts. Pack price (LIDL) = 6.99 HRK (0.8 EUR)

58 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

CROATIA

shopping PLAVAC

Noble wines from Dalmatia The most renowned Croatia red wines come from the Dingač Winery. Try these fine aromas THE DINGAČ WINERY on the Pelješac Peninsula produces some of the best red wines in the world – wines made from the autochtho-

er brother” which also originates from the protected position of the same name. These wines are distinguishable by their ruby red colour, full

nous Croatian variety Plavac mali: Dingač, Postup, Plavac and Pelješac. The Dingač Winery was founded in long ago 1902, with its headquarters in the locality Potomje on the Pelješac Peninsula – very close to the world renowned Dubrovnik. Dingač, the king of Croatian wines,

bouquet and exceptional aroma. That which is specific to these wine-growing positions is the terrain which slopes down steeply, in some places up to 70 %, towards the sea, with triple sun exposure, where the grapevine receives warmth from three sides, directly from the sun, from the

is cultivated on the very southern part of the Pelješac Peninsula, on the protected positions bearing the Dingač name. Dingač is also the first

sun’s reflection from the sea and rocks, thus this wine has an unusually high percentage of natural sugar which is rarely found in other wines.

Croatian internationally protected wine (Geneva, Switzerland – 1964). Postup is Dingač’s “young-

Be sure to try these wines which have thrilled wine connoisseurs throughout the world.

Croatian tradition in a glass We would like to present some typical Croatian traditional spirits BADEL KOMOVICA Badel Komovica is a brandy made from grape pomace. It is made in the traditional manner from the grape varieties from the well known wine regions of Benkovac, near Šibenik. BADEL TRAVARICA Badel Travarica is a brandy based on a wine distillate into which special types of medicinal herbs from the Mediterranean region are added. This brandy is characterised by its exceptional flavour and scent. It is served chilled. BADEL ORAHOVAC Badel Orahovac is a liqueur with a bitter sweet taste and pleasant nutty aroma, made from green walnuts using a special traditional method which ensures irresistible

CROATIA

delight. It is best consumed chilled – as an aperitif or digestive. BADEL CHERRY BRANDY Badel Cherry Brandy is prepared using the autochthonous sour cherry variety, Maraska. This delectable fruit and its aroma come to full expression in this liqueur as a result of which it has already won numerous medals in European competitions. It is best served chilled. BADEL MEDICA Badel Medica is a traditional Croatian honey liqueur. The brandy Komovica (brandy with pomace) provides the base to which chestnut and Black locust honey is added (or acacia if you like). It must be served chilled.

BADEL STARA ŠLJIVOVICA is a natural fruit brandy made from the distillation of plums. This brandy is one of the best known Croatian export products and is known worldwide. Its distinctive flavour is the result of many centuries of experience in cultivating the autochthonous plum variety, Bistrica. Badel Stara Šljivovica is produced using traditional methods in contemporary surroundings. This brandy is characterised by its specific fruity plum aroma and golden colour. Badel Stara šljivovica is best chilled and can serve as both a digestive and aperitif. Traditionally, in Croatia, giving a friend or guest a shot of brandy is like offering them a handshake – it is a sign of friendship, good intentions and an invitation to a pleasant conversation.

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refresh

Summer refreshment Here are some good tips for summer refreshment. Refuel energy and refresh

03 Functional refreshment

02 01 Energy drink Mixxed up energy drink we bought in Lidl in Vodice. Energy and refreshment for 6.99 HRK (0.9 EUR)

Isotonic juice

In Croatia there is a whole line of functional juices of the „Vital“ brand. Our favorite: pineapple – excellent for losing weight.

Isotonic juice “Isosport” by Vindija is the most popular isotonic drink in Croatia -“Best Buy Award” winner.

04 We love it! Mmmm! Bacardi Breezer. We love Breezers, especially this Bacardi. Great blend of Bacardi rum, lime and exotic taste in sparkling mineral water.

05 Spectacular cocktail Beer and lemonade combined. Cooled! Try it this summer- perfect refreshment for summer and beach. Lidl - 5.99 HRK (0.8 EUR)

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KUTJEVO TR ADITION QUALITY ABUNDANCE

The most drinkable Croatian wine – Kutjevo Graševina, aside from its centuries old tradition and numerous awards it has received throughout its history, can now also boast about its most recent international awards received at the prestigious world festivals in England and France. Aside from Graševina, Kutjevo also offers some of the most well known western European wine varieties. This summer we suggest that you don’t miss out trying Kutjevo Rose which is perfect on hot summer days. Again this year, Kutjevo is organising the project “Sailing around Croatia with Croatian products”. As part of this project, an old sailboat will travel along the Croatian coast from the 31.07 to the 13.08, stopping in 14 towns along the Croatian coast. On the boat accompanied by the sounds of mandolins, Kutjevo will present traditional Croatian gastronomy and enology products under the motto “The party is good when the wine is fine Powered by Kutjevo 777”.

Date 31.07. 01. 08. 02.08. 03.08. 04.08. 05.08. 06.08. 07.08. 08.08. 09.08. 10.08. 11.08. 12.08. 13.08. CROATIA

Locations MAKARSKA BAŠKA VODA JELSA MILNA PUČIŠĆA SUPETAR TROGIR ŠIBENIK FILIP I JAKOV BIOGRAD PAŠMAN PAG SV JURAJ MALINSKA

PROMOTION

The most awarded Croatian wine This year Kutjevo has strengthened its strongest wine brands with international awards received in France and England.

Aside from a multitude of Croatian and international awards that Kutjevo wines have received during their rich history, the latest international awards Kutjevo received for two of its wine also stand out. They are the awards Chardonnay du Monde at which a Croatian wine has for the first time this year received a gold medal. Furthermore, in London two Kutjevo wines received the Silver award at the well known Decanter, while another two wines received recommendations. The secret to the exceptional success of Kutjevo wines lies in the continued tradition of grapevine cultivation and wine making in the Kutjevo cellars which has being going on for 778 years! Other than this, the soil and climate of the Kutjevo wine growing region are an excellent basis for producing superior wines.

Aside from the refreshing Graševina, Kutjevo also offers another 15 different wine varieties and mixes. Wines offered are classified as quality, superior quality and the supreme – special “DeGotho” quality. DeGotho quality ensures the greatest possible quality and wine flavour at the level of Grand Reserve technology. This summer, treat yourself to superior Kutjevo wines.

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cosmetic products

Forgot something? Forgot to take summer cosmetic products with you? We went to Lidl Croatia and here’s what they have for you… For real men Gibellini, exclusive product line made in Germany under strictly controlled conditions. Top quality and excellent prices makes the products your best buy. In picture: shaving foam and anti-dandruff shampoo.

Anti-wrinkle night cream Anti-wrinkle night cream with the exclusive formula “Liftan”. Restores skin’s energy and vitality. Lidl – 19.99 HRK (2.7 EUR)

Cien liquid soap Liquid soap with special caring formula. Regularly controlled by the Dr. Schreder Institute. Lidl – 8.99 HRK (1.25 EUR)

Perfume for women Perfume /eau de toilette “Suddenly” for women, a suitable fragrance for the summer. Lidl – 27.99 HRK (3.8 EUR)

Universal cream Cien universal hydratating cream. Protects skin from drying-out. Regularly controlled by the Dr. Schreder Institute. Lidl – 9.99kn (1.4 EUR)

Shampoo 2 in 1 for men Gibellini shampoo 2in1 for men is shampoo and conditioner in one. Contains caffeine with special refreshing effect. Lidl – 7.99 HRK (1.1 EUR)

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Sun protection creams Sun protection line “Cien” – best on European market according to independent tests. Lidl – 24.99 HRK (3.5 EUR)

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shopping pp 1 Child toy - rocking horse 2 Household colander 3 Tripod stool – a three-legged seat 4 Kitchen chopping board 5 Wooden scarecrow 6 Weaved basket 7 Small broom 8 Gardening tools 9 Wooden spoon 10 Wooden pot 03 11 Child size wooden chair 12 Butter churn 13 Demižon - a basket weaved bottle 14 Cooking pot 15 Round wooden tripod 16 Peasant axe 17 Tamburica –a stringed instrument child toy 18 Wooden hay-fork 19 Small cart 20 Wooden wheelbarrow 21 Copper boiler 22 Wooden flour spoon 23 Wooden wine barrel 24 Peka – cast iron lid for pot roast

07 08 01

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05 02 10 04 06 11

24

ANTIQUE TOOLS

Historical charm We visited an Antique tools fair in the Croatian hinterland 12

IN MANY CROATIAN villages there are still fairs where you can buy traditional peasant tools. We visited the one in Benkovac, in

Dalmatian hinterland, only 20 kilometers from the coast. We present you with the most interesting items we saw.

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17

22 13

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23 20 14 19 15

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63 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

map

Where is it? Use this map so you can see exactly where all the places described in Adria Traveller are located



POR

AC RAB Delnice

Mali Lošinj

1

LOŠINJ

RIJEKA

Umag

Opatija Motovun

17 Poreč Vrsar

Pazin

Crikvenica Labin

Rovinj

Rabac Krk

10

Punat

4

Baška

8

Vodnjan

7

5

CRES

PULA

6

RAB

NICE

LUBE

LOŠINJ Mali Lošinj

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map

NIN

ZAGREB RIJEKA

SPLIT

MAK

KA

ARS

PAKLENICA Nin

11

ZADAR NIK ROV

3 12

DUB

16

Vodice

ŠIBENIK

SPLIT

Trogir

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13 Brela

Bol

BRAČ

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Makarska Tučepi

Hvar

HVAR VIS

Korčula

KORČULA LASTOVO

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Metković

PEL JEŠAC

ML JET

DUBROVNIK

Cavtat

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65 TRAVELLER SUMMER 2010

What and where? Calendar: concerts, parties, exhibitions, folklore dancing, gatherings, entertainment JULY 14.07, Pag-Novalja, Armin Van Buuren, Papaya

AUGUST 01.08, Brač-Supetar, Klapa Concert (acapella)

14.07, Zadar, Seal Concert, Jazine

01.08, Makarska, Klapa Concert (acapella)

15.07, Vodice, Local festivities

01-08.08, Tisno, Korento Games

16.07, Poreč, Roger Sanchez, Byblos

02.08, Krk-Stara Baška, folklore

16.07, Cres-Lubenice, Lubenice Musical Evenings 16.07, Split, DJ Paulette, Stella Mares

02.08, Lošinj-Mali Lošinj, Canzona Napolitana, Concert

17.07, Pag, Ethno-Fest

02.08, Makarska, Local festivities

18.07, Zadar, Vlatko Stefanovski, Arsenal

02.08, Pag-Novalja, Paul Van Dyk, Papaya

19.07, Murter, Klapa Concert (acapella singing groups)

03.08, Makarska, Classical music concert

20.07, Pula, folklore, Forum

04.08, Poreč, Jazz in Lapidarij

03.08, Rovinj, folklore

21.07, Medulin, Premantura Open Air

04.08, Vodice, Local festivities

22.07, Povile, Local festivities

05.08, Makarska, Local festivities

23.07, Poreč, Erick Morillo, Byblos

05.08, Starigrad-Paklenica, Local festivities

23.07, Zadar, Natalie Cole Concert, Forum

06.08, Cres-Lubenice, Lubenice Musical Evenings

23.07, Primošten, Kiril Dzajmovski, Aurora

07.08, Lošinj-Nerezine, Party, Ridimutak Beach Bar

23.07, Split, Marshall Jefferson, Stela Mares

07.08, Medulin, Local festivities

23.07, Split, Nicci Belucci, Vanilla

08.08, Lošinj-Mali Lošinj, Folklore concert

23.07, Zadar, Soundwave and Cinematic Orchestra and others

09.08, Pag-Novalja, Moonsplash and Riva Starr, Aquarius

24.07, Dubrovnik, Marshall Jefferson, Belvedere

10.08, Brač-škrip, gospel concert

25.07, Opatija, Local festivities

11.08, Pag-Novalja, Swedish House Mafia, Papaya

26.07, Makarska, Full Moon Experience Party

11.08, Poreč, Jazz in the Lapidarij

27.07, Savudrija, Local festivities

12.08, Šibenik, Klapa concert (acapella) 13.08, Novigrad, Ethno-Fest 13.08, Poreč, Classical music concert in the Basilica 14.08, Dubrovnik, Layo & Bushwakka, Belvedere 14.08, Murter, Marusha 14.08, Umag, Gypsy Kings, concert 15.08, Hvar-Jelsa, Local festivities 16.08, Pula, Evergreen concert, Portrada 17.08, Pula, Folklore, Forum

14.07.2010. Zadar, Seal Concert, Jazine

26.07.2010. Rab - Rabska Fiera, Medieval Fair

SEPTEMBER 02-04.09, Vodice, Big Game Fishing 02-05.09, Pula, Biker Party 02.09, Brač-Supetar, Klapa concert (acapella) 02.09, Makarska, Night of Klapa (acapella) 02.09, Rovinj, Summer Festival 03-05.09, Tar, Tourist festivities 03.09, Funtana, Fishermen’s festivities 03.09, Krk-Punat, Klapa concert (acapella) 03.09, Zadar, Stop Making Sense Festival 04.09, Šolta-Stomorska, Klapa concert (acapella)

18.08, Rovinj, Shantel, Gandusiana

04.09, Primošten, Aurora Closing Party and David Guetta

19.08, Šibenik, Klapa concert (acapella)

05.09, Buje, Eco cycling marathon

20.08, Split, Funkparty, O Hara

05.09, Fažana, Gastro-Fest

21.08, Funtana, Local festivities

10.09, Benkovac, Antique fair

22.08, Pag, Piano concert

10.09, Vrsar, Fishermen’s festivities

23.08, Fažana, Classical music concert

11.09, Rabac, Oldtimers meeting

24.08, Rovinj, Folklore

14.09, Funtana, Fishermen’s festivities

25.08, Dubrovnik, Classical music concert

16.09, Rab-Kampor, Local festivities

26.08, Dubrovnik, Folklore event

16.09, Vodice, Cycling race

28.07, Poreč, Jazz in the Lapidarij

26.08, Rabac, Entertainment programme

29.07, Pag-Novalja, Shapeshifters, Papaya

27.08, Opatija, Chanson Festival

16-18.09, Novi Vinodolski, Casting World Championships

30.07, Cres-Lubenice, Lubenice Musical Evenings

28.08, Krk, Klapa concert (acapella)

16-19.09, Šibenik, Adriatic Boat Show

30.07, Split, Klapa Concert (acapella singing groups)

29.08, Zadar, Jazz concert, Narodni Trg

17-19.09, Šibenik, Medieval Fair

30.07, Pag-Novalja, David Morales, Papaya

30.08, Zadar, Klapa concert (acapella), Narodni Trg

17-19.09, Buje, Grape Festival

31.07, Rab, DJ Dirty Youth, Santos

31.08, Rab, Folklore

19.09, Jezera, Big Game Fishing

66 TRAVELLER LJETO 2010

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