Foreigners Self-Isolating in Croatia: Do You Feel Safer? Mirza from India in Zagreb
April 2, 2020 - Do foreigners in Croatia feel more or less safe sitting out COVID-19 here than in their home country, and what are their experiences? A new series on TCN, with Mirza Sarhan from India in Zagreb as our 16th contributor.
Oxford University recently published some research on government responses to coronavirus which showed that Croatia currently has the strictest measures in the world. While inconvenient, this is a good thing in terms of reducing the spread of the virus, and I am certainly not alone in my admiration of the official Croatian handling of this crisis in recent weeks, both in terms of action and communication.
But what do other expats here think? And how does it compare with the response in their home country? Would they rather sit this one out here or there? In the first of a new series on TCN, we will be featuring expats from all over the world to see what their views are on life in corona Croatia rather than back home. So far we have heard from expats in Croatia from Romania, USA, Ireland, UK, Mexico, Argentina, Spain, Singapore, Holland, Canada and Germany. Next up, Mirza Sarhan from India in Zagreb.
If you would like to contribute to this series, full details are below. Now, over to Mirza.
Firstly, how are you? Are you alone/with someone? Tell us a little about your situation and sanity levels.
I have been doing okay. Carrying on and trying hard to keep my optimism up. Even though you are in self-isolation, time flies by very quickly and in a week or so the routine sets you up but with a routine like this, there is immense mediocrity that scares you. I work & study in Croatia and I have to take my yearly vacation to India. It’s been 2 years, I haven't seen my father and a year since I met my mother. Unfortunately, I had to cancel my trip due to Coronavirus. I had a play for SKAZ at Theatre Knapp; the festival got cancelled. Uncertain future, homesickness and a rush of feelings. Currently, I share my apartment with my girlfriend who is from Croatia.
What do you think about the economic measures the government is taking, are they helping your business?
As I work here in Zagreb, I have to say I am very lucky to be a part of a company that truly cares about its employees. I work as a Community Manager for EX-ALTO Events & Consulting; My employer has been actively involved in ensuring we utilise all the economic reforms the government of Croatia announced and made sure it’s employees don’t suffer.
When did you realise that corona was going to be a big issue?
Generally, I believe I am a person who is vividly curious about the world and current affairs. I have been studying the trace of the virus since first it was discovered in China. I had a sense of assumption that it might go big considering how connected we are as humans today; Though I realised the seriousness of the matter once I saw the outbreak in Italy. As Croatia shares its borders with Italy, I knew, now is the time to react.
I must admit I truly admire how Croatia as a nation is currently dealing with the pandemic. I believe the numbers speak for itself. Initially, I thought, we are a bit slow in initiating measures, but once the first measures were announced and until today, all I have is appreciation on the way things have been handled. Be it cancelling of events, closing borders and intercity travel, measures like these definitely make you feel safe here. I always follow the everyday live conference by our designated dignitaries.
Now compare that to your home country and how they are handling it. What is Croatia doing better/worse?
I was raised in the Gulf, but originally I come from India. Coming from such a highly populated country, I believe the comparison won’t be right; Though I can talk about how India is handling it and what could have done better. The Indian government wasn't late at all with taking this virus seriously. Looking at the number of cases, The Indian Government has done a tremendous job of containing the virus. The whole nation is on a lockdown till the end of April; Borders for all kinds of international travel are closed. The government also announced some economic reforms for the poor of the country.
Still, considering its population, I think the job is hard and will take immense cooperation from the citizens of India. The biggest mishap from the Indian Government was a sheer miscalculation of not thinking about the poor of the nation. Huge populations of daily wage labourers were affected and with transportation suspended, couldn't reach their hometowns. I also fear Indians lack the medical equipment for our health workers who are at the front line. Croatia is definitely doing a great job in managing the movement of citizens, maintaining distancing between people and I believe support from the health centers for testing is good too. Croatia also recently ordered tons of health equipment from China and UAE.
What about official communications from the authorities, compared to your home country?
All the schools, shopping centers, Cinemas, small and medium-size businesses are shut down, with the international and nationwide ban of movement in India. Grocery stores, pharmacies are open every day. Anyone who violates the isolation is meant to serve a prison term of 2 years. I believe India and Croatia both have very strict measures and hence no major outbreak has happened.
What's the one thing you wish you had taken with you into self-isolation.
A Playstation 4 for sure!
One thing you have learned about yourself, and one thing you have learned about others during this crisis.
Patience, belief and perseverance are my biggest values and strengths during a crisis like this. Uncertainty truly scares me; When you have drafted a plan for yourself in 2020 and when everything goes to vain, it’s very hard to be optimistic; But I have slowly learned to accept and slow down. I have understood, now are the times to stop running and enjoy the view. To come closer and learn about our inner soul and the people around you with a conscience of becoming better human beings.
I have also learned that at the end of the day, no matter who you are, rich/poor, old/young, no matter where you live, we all are one. We all are humans and we are vulnerable together and we can truly come together in need at the mercy of Planet Earth. Thanks.
My name is Mirza Sarhan, originally I am from India but I was raised in the Gulf. Currently, I study acting at the International Art's Centre, Zagreb and work as a Community Manager at EX-ALTO event management and consultancy. As a freelancer, I create videos for my YouTube Channel, write letters for people, design presentations and write articles. I co-founded The Film Society Zagreb. You can learn more about Mirza Sarhan here.
Mirza, stay safe and see you on the other side.
TCN is starting a new feature series on foreign experiences of sitting out covid-19 here in Croatia compared to their home country. If you would like to contribute, the questions are below. Please also include a para about yourself and where you are from, and a link to your website if you would like. Please also send 3-4 photos minimum to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Subject Corona Foreigner
If you would be interested to record a video version for our partners www.rplus.video please let us know in the email. Thanks and stay safe.
Foreigners Self-Isolating in Croatia: Do You Feel Safer Than in Your Home Country?
Firstly, how are you? Are you alone/with someone? Tell us a little about your situation and sanity levels.
What do you think about the economic measures the government is taking, are they helping your business? (PLEASE IGNORE IF THIS DOES NOT AFFECT YOU)
When did you realise that corona was going to be a big issue?
What is your impression of the way Croatia is dealing with the crisis? How safe do you feel?
Now compare that to your home country and how they are handling it. What is Croatia doing better/worse?
What about official communications from the authorities, compared to your home country?
What's the one thing you wish you had taken with you into self-isolation.
One thing you have learned about yourself, and one thing you have learned about others during this crisis.
TCN has recently become a partner in Robert Tomic Zuber's new R+ video channel, initially telling stories about corona experiences. You can see the first TCN contribution from this morning, my video from Jelsa talking about the realities of running a news portal in the corona era below. If you would like to also submit a video interview, please find Robert's guidelines below
VIDEO RECORDING GUIDE
The video footage should be recorded so that the cell phone is turned horizontally (landscape mode).
There are several rules for television and video news:- length is not a virtue- a picture speaks more than a thousand words
In short, this would mean that your story should not last more than 90 seconds and that everything you say in the report should be shown by video (for example, if you talk about empty streets, we should see those empty streets, etc.).
How to do it with your cell phone? First, use a selfie camera to record yourself telling your story for about a minute and a half. Ideally, it would be taken in the exterior, except in situations where you are reporting on things in the interior (quarantine, hospital, self-isolation, etc.). Also, when shooting, move freely, make sure everything is not static.
After you have recorded your report, you should capture footage that will tell your story with a picture, such as an earlier example with empty streets.
One of the basic rules of TV journalism is that the story is told in the same way as a journalist with his text. Therefore, we ask you for additional effort. Because we work in a very specific situation, sometimes you may not be able to capture footage for each sentence of the report. In this case, record the details on the streets: people walking, the main features of the city where you live, inscriptions on the windows related to the virus, etc.
The same rules apply if you are shooting a story from your apartment, self-isolation, quarantine. We also need you to capture footage that describes your story.
When shooting frames to cover your reports, it is important that you change the angle of the shot (in other words, shoot that empty street from several angles). Also, when shooting a detail, count at least five seconds before removing the camera to another detail.
The material should be about 5 minutes long (90 seconds of your report + frames to cover your story).
After recording everything, send us to Zagreb, preferably via WeTransfer to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
As Millions of Croats Self-Isolate Responsibly, Split's Sporting Picigin Tradition Continues
April 2, 2020 - Croatia has introduced some of the most restrictive measures on movement in the world to combat COVID-19, and with great success. But the Split game of 'picigin', it seems, is an exception.
One of the most powerful (in a field of very powerful) articles I have read in the last few weeks about our new reality was A letter to the UK from Italy: this is what we know about your future in The Guardian.
The harrowing details apart, the sentence that stays with me is this:
Being locked up in a house with a pretty garden or in an overcrowded housing project will not be the same.
It was a thought that occurred to me several weeks ago. And so when schools were closed for an initial two weeks (we all knew it would be months), we had a choice to make. Stay in our very nice rental home in a village near Varazdin, where we would slowly kill each other once restrictions, or come to our rental apartment and previous home in Jelsa on Hvar.
From a mental health aspect, there was no question. The sun, the terrace, the nature win every time. And if things got really bad, as they might, we had the family field to feed us.
We were responsible and kept away from everyone (and I am yet to have a conversation with anyone here in the flesh almost three weeks later). Self-isolation and work. I have never worked harder. 5am start, bed at midnight. A break for lunch and one precious hour when I leave the house for my own solitude and escape from the world.
I think twice before posting on social media, because I am aware that gorgeous videos of sunset by the sea must be frustrating to watch. But I do post them because 1) I want to support Croatian tourism by reminding people in isolation that this is what awaits, 2) giving people a happy reminder that their favourite places are waiting for them, and 3) because those who follow TCN will appreciate the hard work we do needs some stress relief.
And Hvar is stunning right now, and the local tourism businesses will be very happy to welcome you after all this madness is over.
Meanwhile today, in Split, reports Dalmacija Danas...
The traditional Split game of Picigin was in full flow. If you are not familiar with picigin, it is a Split tradition with its very own World Championship, and the first beach game in the world to get cultural heritage status. You can learn more about picigin here.
Dalmacija Danas is conducting a poll on whether or not this is responsible behaviour, with 79% initially disapproving.
Your thoughts? Comments below or vote in the Dalmacija Danas questionnaire.
Hundreds of Croats Returning from Abroad at Own Cost
ZAGREB, April 2, 2020 - Hundreds of Croat nationals are returning home on Saturday from Portugal, Spain, Italy and Sweden at their own cost on Croatia Airlines commercial flights because operating costs of their travel have to be covered, Croatia's Foreign and European Affairs Minister Gordan Grlić Radman said.
The majority of them are students and are coming from Spain, between 150 of the 200, fewer are coming from Portugal, and between 60 and 120 are coming from Italy, Grlić Radman explained and added that repatriation is also being considered via ferry from Ancona to Zadar.
"It is our obligation to care for the safety of our citizens and to assist them in returning home," said Grlić Radman.
As such, extraordinary "commercial repatriation flights" have been introduced, he said and added that the operating costs of the flights have to be covered.
"Airplanes are leaving Zagreb empty and it is in our interest to accommodate as many people as possible while respecting the proper distance in seating. They must wear protective masks and gloves," he said.
He added that this crisis, after the economic and migrant crisis before it, is yet another test to "demonstrate solidarity and unity."
Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has secured greater powers during the coronavirus crisis and has been criticised by European institutions and human rights groups.
Grlić Radman said that Croatia, "as the country presiding the Council of the EU, is a neutral mediator that needs to represent the interests of all member states."
Thirteen EU member states signed a joint statement on Wednesday underscoring that measures in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic have to be limited in time, proportional and under regular control.
Grlić Radman said that he is aware of that, but recalled that it is "customary for the presiding country not to join any statement but to unite all interests."
Croatia did not sign the last joint declaration by the Friends of Cohesion regarding the multi-annual financial framework even though it is a member of that informal group, nor did it sign a non-paper requesting EU enlargement to the Western Balkans even though it advocates European integration and incorporated that in its priorities for the six-month presidency, said Grlić Radman.
More coronavirus news can be found in the Lifestyle section.
Coronavirus Knocks Down Labour Demand
ZAGREB, April 2, 2020 - The Online Vacancy Index (OVI) for March reflects a break in social and economic activities caused by the coronavirus pandemic, with the demand for service-sector occupations falling and the demand for healthcare occupations and construction workers growing, the Zagreb Institute of Economics (EIZ) says.
Compared with March 2019, the OVI fell by 23.3%, while seasonally adjusted index values indicate an 18.5% decrease compared with the previous month.
"This is a strong decline on a monthly level, which still cannot be compared to 2009 when the OVI index registered significantly stronger declines," the EIZ said on Thursday.
The demand for traditionally most sought-after occupations – sales persons, cooks and waiters – fell by 27%, 30% and 29% respectively compared with March 2019.
"Moreover, the majority of sought-after occupations, particularly those from the service sector, registered significant decreases," the EIZ said, adding that the demand for hotel managers had dropped by almost 40% and for other tourism professionals by 50% compared with the previous year.
However, there was also a strong increase in the demand for certain occupations, such as those involved in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic and the consequences of the March 22 earthquake in Zagreb.
Compared with March 2019, the demand for doctors and/or dentists increased by 38%, for pharmacists by 24% and for nurses by 10%. Also, the demand for bricklayers rose by 67% and for construction workers by 7%.
"However, it should be borne in mind that occupations for which there is a growing demand do not have a large share in the overall demand, as a result of which the decrease in the demand for service-sector occupations, which have a larger share, sets the overall OVI dynamics," the EIZ said, adding that all regions recorded significant declines, except for Eastern Croatia, which had an almost identical demand for labour as in March 2019.
The OVI is a monthly index of online job advertisements developed by the EIZ in cooperation with the MojPosao job search website. It aims to provide timely information on current labour demand.
More coronavirus news can be found in the Business section.
Foreigners Self-Isolating in Croatia: Do You Feel Safer? Rene from Holland in Zumberak
April 2, 2020 - Do foreigners in Croatia feel more or less safe sitting out COVID-19 here than in their home country, and what are their experiences? A new series on TCN, with Rene Pronk from Holland in Zumberak as our 15th contributor.
Oxford University recently published some research on government responses to coronavirus which showed that Croatia currently has the strictest measures in the world. While inconvenient, this is a good thing in terms of reducing the spread of the virus, and I am certainly not alone in my admiration of the official Croatian handling of this crisis in recent weeks, both in terms of action and communication.
But what do other expats here think? And how does it compare with the response in their home country? Would they rather sit this one out here or there? In the first of a new series on TCN, we will be featuring expats from all over the world to see what their views are on life in corona Croatia rather than back home. So far we have heard from expats in Croatia from Romania, USA, Ireland, UK, Mexico, Argentina, Spain, Singapore, Canada and Germany. Next up, Rene Pronk from Holland, who lives in Zumberak.
If you would like to contribute to this series, full details are below. Now, over to Rene.
Firstly, how are you? Are you alone/with someone? Tell us a little about your situation and sanity levels.
We are happy, healthy and hopeful. I am with my wife, my son, the cat and the dog and nowadays more wild pigs coming to our land than some weeks ago. Thank God for social media these days. We stay in contact with many friends all over the world and feel very blessed at this moment to be Croatia-based. I am a bit worried about the Dutch approach to this pandemic. The Netherlands is where my parents reside, and my mum is very fragile at her age.
What do you think about the economic measures the government is taking, are they helping your business?
Ever since day one of our arrival in Croatia we have just been paying. So I will be surprised if there is something in store for us. I am satisfied with Mr. Plenkovic, he seems a calm and trustful man. We still have income from rents and some online sales. It is not enough but we can get by for a couple of months. My photo tourism business is down. All my photo tours are cancelled and so is the accommodation. But my main concern is for the many hard-working entrepreneurs in Croatia. Many of them have no cash reserves and live on credit. The situation can last for a couple of more weeks but then shops have to re-open with strict safety measures of course. I found some great online shops of Croatian origin and I hope they do good business right now I buy from them for I want to support Croatia wherever I can.
When did you realise that corona was going to be a big issue?
It was on February 16 when I was on a Ryanair flight back from Thessaloniki to Bratislava. Everybody was wearing mouth caps and awful reports from Italy were starting to come in.
What is your impression of the way Croatia is dealing with the crisis? How safe do you feel?
Information is always hard to find in Croatia and it is always multi-interpretable. This time it is like I suddenly woke up in a different world. And that is not because of the lockdown. The information is so accurate. The stozer team is so calm, self-assured and they sail us right along the dangerous rocks in this ocean of uncertainty. I cannot think of a safer and better country to live in right now. We feel much safer than our family and friends in the Netherland where the IC units have reached their full capacity. But we also live in a village. And people here are used to live with the seasons, the weather and the wars. They just adapt and the impact on them seems not as catastrophic as for the urban Dutchman whose trust was in his wealth and economy alone.
Furthermore, I am a praying and meditating person. So my safety does not depend on the circumstances around me.
Now compare that to your home country and how they are handling it. What is Croatia doing better/worse?
I really do not like the ban they put on travelling. I am a photographer and I want to be out there when the sun comes up, near the river or on a hilltop. I cannot leave my village and that is kind of frustrating, especially now that Spring is coming. I run a humanitarian organization and I am not allowed to visit Croatia’s most poor and lonely people in the remote areas. I do not blame the government, for they cannot make an exception for me. But this ban has to be lifted soon. It is a basic freedom principle that people still have in the Netherlands to travel. Croatia does not have a “business climate” so this time it works in its favour... The government really is doing their job well and protects us from evil. Shopping centers are turned into emergency centers and the measures to spread the virus are very strict. Yes they do a good job. But let’s see in a few months if this was really all worth it. Let’s also see how the virus develops as it might lose its strength in due course.
What about official communications from the authorities, compared to your home country?
The viber app is great. As I said the communication surprises me as getting information in the Netherlands is really taken for granted. Not so in Croatia. That is different this time. So I hope that the information virus spreads to many of the clerks after this Corona is over.
What's the one thing you wish you had taken with you into self-isolation.
We are pretty much used to a self-sustainable lifestyle. So we are ok. My son is at home so I do a lot of creative activities with him in addition to homeschooling. But even the wood glue and some tools I could order online. So there is nothing I really miss at the moment.
One thing you have learned about yourself, and one thing you have learned about others during this crisis.
I have learned to remain thankful even more. If the big world is no longer accessible for you and you cannot go where you like to go the garden suddenly becomes a friendly paradise. Birds still whistle, the dog wants to play, the flowers grow, the butterflies fly, the seeds are sown, the beautiful Kupa river invites me to just sit and relax. It is all there but you take it for granted and yearn for more spectacular pictures. I did not appreciate it that much as I do now.
Today I ordered flower seeds besides the veggie ones. Let’s plant a flower garden and make it even more beautiful. I have browsed too many of my pictures lately. Croatia is a paradise. What a beautiful country. It is a time for reminiscing without getting melancholic.
What I learned from the Croats that they are a calm nation unlike the Dutch. The Dutch still have the freedom to travel. They can still export a lot of their food and goods but they are all the time speaking about a crisis. Here we are so dependent on tourism. So I feel that the repercussions of this lockdown for Croatia will be far worse but more easily accepted.
Croatia has been through so many stages and seasons. We will battle this one and become stronger than before. I hope we will focus more on quality tourism and see ourselves as a green lung and paradise in Europe. I hope we will see beyond the crisis and reach our potential, which is huge. I even think that many people in Western Europe that went panic shopping will maybe begin to think about a better life with a little piece of land that can supply most of their own food. Perhaps in Croatia.
Thanks Rene, stay safe and see you on the other side.
TCN is starting a new feature series on foreign experiences of sitting out covid-19 here in Croatia compared to their home country. If you would like to contribute, the questions are below. Please also include a para about yourself and where you are from, and a link to your website if you would like. Please also send 3-4 photos minimum to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Subject Corona Foreigner
If you would be interested to record a video version for our partners www.rplus.video please let us know in the email. Thanks and stay safe.
Foreigners Self-Isolating in Croatia: Do You Feel Safer Than in Your Home Country?
Firstly, how are you? Are you alone/with someone? Tell us a little about your situation and sanity levels.
What do you think about the economic measures the government is taking, are they helping your business? (PLEASE IGNORE IF THIS DOES NOT AFFECT YOU)
When did you realise that corona was going to be a big issue?
What is your impression of the way Croatia is dealing with the crisis? How safe do you feel?
Now compare that to your home country and how they are handling it. What is Croatia doing better/worse?
What about official communications from the authorities, compared to your home country?
What's the one thing you wish you had taken with you into self-isolation.
One thing you have learned about yourself, and one thing you have learned about others during this crisis.
TCN has recently become a partner in Robert Tomic Zuber's new R+ video channel, initially telling stories about corona experiences. You can see the first TCN contribution from this morning, my video from Jelsa talking about the realities of running a news portal in the corona era below. If you would like to also submit a video interview, please find Robert's guidelines below
VIDEO RECORDING GUIDE
The video footage should be recorded so that the cell phone is turned horizontally (landscape mode).
There are several rules for television and video news:- length is not a virtue- a picture speaks more than a thousand words
In short, this would mean that your story should not last more than 90 seconds and that everything you say in the report should be shown by video (for example, if you talk about empty streets, we should see those empty streets, etc.).
How to do it with your cell phone? First, use a selfie camera to record yourself telling your story for about a minute and a half. Ideally, it would be taken in the exterior, except in situations where you are reporting on things in the interior (quarantine, hospital, self-isolation, etc.). Also, when shooting, move freely, make sure everything is not static.
After you have recorded your report, you should capture footage that will tell your story with a picture, such as an earlier example with empty streets.
One of the basic rules of TV journalism is that the story is told in the same way as a journalist with his text. Therefore, we ask you for additional effort. Because we work in a very specific situation, sometimes you may not be able to capture footage for each sentence of the report. In this case, record the details on the streets: people walking, the main features of the city where you live, inscriptions on the windows related to the virus, etc.
The same rules apply if you are shooting a story from your apartment, self-isolation, quarantine. We also need you to capture footage that describes your story.
When shooting frames to cover your reports, it is important that you change the angle of the shot (in other words, shoot that empty street from several angles). Also, when shooting a detail, count at least five seconds before removing the camera to another detail.
The material should be about 5 minutes long (90 seconds of your report + frames to cover your story).
After recording everything, send us to Zagreb, preferably via WeTransfer to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Foreigners Self-Isolating in Croatia: Do You Feel Safer? Amanda from UK on Hvar
April 2, 2020 - Do foreigners in Croatia feel more or less safe sitting out COVID-19 here than in their home country, and what are their experiences? A new series on TCN, with Amanda Blanch from the UK on Hvar as our 14th contributor.
Oxford University recently published some research on government responses to coronavirus which showed that Croatia currently has the strictest measures in the world. While inconvenient, this is a good thing in terms of reducing the spread of the virus, and I am certainly not alone in my admiration of the official Croatian handling of this crisis in recent weeks, both in terms of action and communication.
But what do other expats here think? And how does it compare with the response in their home country? Would they rather sit this one out here or there? In the first of a new series on TCN, we will be featuring expats from all over the world to see what their views are on life in corona Croatia rather than back home. So far we have heard from expats in Croatia from Romania, USA, Ireland, UK, Mexico, Argentina, Spain, Singapore, Canada and Germany. Next up, Brit Amanda Blanch in Stari Grad on Hvar.
If you would like to contribute to this series, full details are below. Now, over to Amanda.
Firstly, how are you? Are you alone/with someone? Tell us a little about your situation and sanity levels.
To be honest I hadn’t left the island since October apart from visiting Split for the fabulous annual International Women’s Day event (which was utterly wonderful, thank you Tash Pericic). This means isolation comes rather naturally for me, as Stari Grad hides away behind its shutters and its easy to go for days without seeing a soul.
The day after the event I came down with a nasty cough and similar symptoms to the coronavirus so wisely I decided to be careful and didn’t leave the house for 14 days and have only just started feeling human again. (Bad timing to get ill). However having my gorgeous husband Chris Edwardes and our 8 rescue pets nursing me back to health has made things much more bearable, as has having a small terrace so I have been able to get some sun and feel the fresh air whilst looking out to sea…..is there a better tonic? The other thing keeping me sane is dancing around as if no one is watching in my PJs with my headphones on listening to all my favourite tunes.
Having a husband who is a cocktail genius also really really helps…..ha ha.
What do you think about the economic measures the government is taking, are they helping your business?
We own a small boutique hotel (posh bnb I guess) in the centre of the historic town of Star Grad and obviously tourism is one of the sectors that has been decimated due to the virus. We scrape by through 7 months of Winter on what we have made during the Summer months and as the deposits come through we use that to get through until the Spring when the bookings are coming in thick and fast. The main problems we and all of us in the same boat have is that some of the guests who are cancelling want their deposits back and with no bookings now and therefore no income, this is impossible. We really need help financially to be able to survive.
Had it not been for your interview with Mirela I wouldn’t have known that some measures are being put in place for the wages, taxes etc that we pay and have done for 5 years now. I am hoping our accountant will be more forthcoming as so far we have been left in the dark. It is not easy for any of us immigrants trying to learn the whys and wherefores of the Croatian financial systems at the best of times but now we really need some guidance.
Without good solid financial packages in place, there will not be a tourist industry for guests to come back to and I agree with the excellent interview that TCN did with Zoran Pejovic from Paradox Hospitality that we need our tourist board and government to be sending out a clear message to future holidaymakers that we are here and ready for them when the possibility of travel is available again.
Messages of hope about the many exquisite offerings that Croatia has to offer, not just beach style holidays (although they are stunning) but the National Parks, sporting holidays, and of course our excellent wines and local foods that really are some of the best in the Mediterranean. I don’t know if there will be any season this year but we do need airlines to be looking at offering later flights if there is to be. All of these activates can be done from September through to November and god knows we need anything we can get right now. I also think we need to be looking at more local tourism, looking at countries where guests can drive to us in Croatia.
Some airlines will not survive and the climate crisis will put many people off flying so we need to come up with better marketing as a Country to the rest of Europe rather than further afield. But I digress…….Our other business is Blanch Edwardes Consulting which again has been hit very hard as you cannot consult with bar owners and hotels about cocktails, training staff, design etc when the whole hospitality sector is on its knees. Im not sure how it will survive but we are seeing many hard working and amazing people out there all over the world losing everything that have fought so hard to set up. It is devastating to watch.
When did you realise that corona was going to be a big issue?
I have to be honest, I was way behind my husband, I was a little worried in mid-January but thought that it would be cracked down on and that it was just a strong flu virus. Chris however was reading up and being very aware of the situation. I am rather cynical I’m afraid and thought the press were being rather irresponsible by driving the fear. There is still plenty of that happening but yes this is a very real threat to everybody in the world. We are all in it together. It is breaking my heart to see the appalling way that some countries are handling the crisis. Again well done Croatia and please please stay at home and help the health professionals save lives.
What is your impression of the way Croatia is dealing with the crisis? How safe do you feel?
I am extremely proud of the way the Croatian government are handling the whole situation especially with the transparent communication from Vili Beros and Alemka Markotic. Obviously without your amazing work at transiting all of the news we would struggle, but we feel that we have all the facts and subsequently we feel calmer. If only our British government were as transparent and proactive as over here.
My only main worry is that people (especially on the islands) will get bored and become more lax with their self-isolation. My only other concern was that the ferries to the islands should have been stopped earlier as so many people were piling onto Hvar and I’m sure other islands to get away from built-up areas (which I totally understand) from all over Croatia as well as our close neighbouring countries, however with a huge ageing population and no main hospitals this could have caused a major problem. So far we have only had one case (that is confirmed) and so I’m sure we are fine.
Now compare that to your home country and how they are handling it. What is Croatia doing better/worse?
To be honest I am way too angry to get into this right now, unless you want the longest interview ever. Suffice to say the British government has systematically destroyed our NHS (national health system) with 10 years of austerity and by selling it off bit by bit to the private sector. In 2016 we had a large emergency exercise to see how we would do in a pandemic situation. The Government was told then that they were woefully underprepared for any serious threat of a pandemic and they choose to do absolutely nothing about it.
Their bloody-minded Brexit crazy attitude at not wanting anything to do with the EU’s ventilator scheme and wanting to go it alone is criminal and heads should roll over this as well as the lack of testing especially on our front line health workers who are dying every day now for lack of PPE. It is a disgrace and they really should be ashamed of themselves.
Don’t ask for doctors to come out of retirement to aid the struggle and then watch them die as they didn’t have the right equipment. They had known about the dangers of this virus back in early January and there is no excuse for their lack of leadership and mixed messages that many people are still confused by and are not adhering to. The next few weeks will be the most painful thing I will have had to watch from afar as we lose lives unnecessarily.
Every single decision has been too little too late. I am beyond angry about my home country and am very happy indeed to be now living in Croatia. This is not ideal with my loved ones being stuck over there and I worry every day for my daughter and her partner who are in the centre of London. This plays hard on my worry levels more than anything that is happening in Croatia who deserve much praise for the way they are handling the situation.
What about official communications from the authorities, compared to your home country?
No comparison at all, apart from not knowing the inside leg measurement of a person in say Zadar that has the virus I know more due to the excellent communication than I could possibly need to know. Every case, where, how, who has been documented with clear consistent facts. What we need to do and where to get help and advice etc has been invaluable. Compare this to the muddled incoherent drivel coming out of our supposed leaders mouths in the UK and there you have it.
However without your gigantuous efforts at TCN on translating such huge amounts of data, we wouldn’t be so informed. Well done for keeping us up to speed.
What's the one thing you wish you had taken with you into self-isolation.
A dance mat ……ha ha, oh and my very much missed children.
One thing you have learned about yourself, and one thing you have learned about others during this crisis.
That it is ok to just be. I really thought I would be learning more Croatian, reading more books, doing more art, however we put so much pressure on ourselves that maybe this is a forced time to look at where we are in our lives. I’ve been a bit discombobulated over the last few days and I need to be still and take stock.
We are all stronger than we give ourselves credit for but we also need to have downtime and it is also ok to have a bad day and curl up under a duvet if you need to. I hope we all learn to be kinder human beings and also think very much more about the world we want to live in.
I am seeing such incredible selfless acts of kindness around the globe and that gives me hope.
Thanks Amanda, stay safe and see you on the other side.
TCN is starting a new feature series on foreign experiences of sitting out covid-19 here in Croatia compared to their home country. If you would like to contribute, the questions are below. Please also include a para about yourself and where you are from, and a link to your website if you would like. Please also send 3-4 photos minimum to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Subject Corona Foreigner
If you would be interested to record a video version for our partners www.rplus.video please let us know in the email. Thanks and stay safe.
Foreigners Self-Isolating in Croatia: Do You Feel Safer Than in Your Home Country?
Firstly, how are you? Are you alone/with someone? Tell us a little about your situation and sanity levels.
What do you think about the economic measures the government is taking, are they helping your business? (PLEASE IGNORE IF THIS DOES NOT AFFECT YOU)
When did you realise that corona was going to be a big issue?
What is your impression of the way Croatia is dealing with the crisis? How safe do you feel?
Now compare that to your home country and how they are handling it. What is Croatia doing better/worse?
What about official communications from the authorities, compared to your home country?
What's the one thing you wish you had taken with you into self-isolation.
One thing you have learned about yourself, and one thing you have learned about others during this crisis.
TCN has recently become a partner in Robert Tomic Zuber's new R+ video channel, initially telling stories about corona experiences. You can see the first TCN contribution from this morning, my video from Jelsa talking about the realities of running a news portal in the corona era below. If you would like to also submit a video interview, please find Robert's guidelines below
VIDEO RECORDING GUIDE
The video footage should be recorded so that the cell phone is turned horizontally (landscape mode).
There are several rules for television and video news:- length is not a virtue- a picture speaks more than a thousand words
In short, this would mean that your story should not last more than 90 seconds and that everything you say in the report should be shown by video (for example, if you talk about empty streets, we should see those empty streets, etc.).
How to do it with your cell phone? First, use a selfie camera to record yourself telling your story for about a minute and a half. Ideally, it would be taken in the exterior, except in situations where you are reporting on things in the interior (quarantine, hospital, self-isolation, etc.). Also, when shooting, move freely, make sure everything is not static.
After you have recorded your report, you should capture footage that will tell your story with a picture, such as an earlier example with empty streets.
One of the basic rules of TV journalism is that the story is told in the same way as a journalist with his text. Therefore, we ask you for additional effort. Because we work in a very specific situation, sometimes you may not be able to capture footage for each sentence of the report. In this case, record the details on the streets: people walking, the main features of the city where you live, inscriptions on the windows related to the virus, etc.
The same rules apply if you are shooting a story from your apartment, self-isolation, quarantine. We also need you to capture footage that describes your story.
When shooting frames to cover your reports, it is important that you change the angle of the shot (in other words, shoot that empty street from several angles). Also, when shooting a detail, count at least five seconds before removing the camera to another detail.
The material should be about 5 minutes long (90 seconds of your report + frames to cover your story).
After recording everything, send us to Zagreb, preferably via WeTransfer to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Foreigners Self-Isolating in Croatia: Do You Feel Safer? Gina from Canada on Solta
April 2, 2020 - Do foreigners in Croatia feel more or less safe sitting out COVID-19 here than in their home country, and what are their experiences? A new series on TCN, with Gina Jaram from Canada on Solta as our 12th contributor.
Oxford University recently published some research on government responses to coronavirus which showed that Croatia currently has the strictest measures in the world. While inconvenient, this is a good thing in terms of reducing the spread of the virus, and I am certainly not alone in my admiration of the official Croatian handling of this crisis in recent weeks, both in terms of action and communication.
But what do other expats here think? And how does it compare with the response in their home country? Would they rather sit this one out here or there? In the first of a new series on TCN, we will be featuring expats from all over the world to see what their views are on life in corona Croatia rather than back home. So far we have heard from expats in Croatia from Romania, USA, Ireland, UK, Mexico, Argentina, Spain, Singapore and Germany. Next up, Canadian Gina Jaram on the island of Solta near Split.
If you would like to contribute to this series, full details are below. Now, over to Gina.
Firstly, how are you? Are you alone/with someone? Tell us a little about your situation and sanity levels.
Today, I am okay. Honestly, it changes by the day, sometimes even the hour. I am not doing well overall (mentally and emotionally) in this situation, but I know I am not alone. Thankfully, I live with my Mom on our beautiful island of Solta and our 4 cats (!!!), and my boyfriend is also here for now, so I am not alone, but I do feel alone at times because I cannot leave the island whenever I want.
I moved here in October 2018, both my parents were born in Croatia and I decided to ‘come back’ to live here. I was just about to receive my Citizenship the week that the rules all fell into place, so I feel like I am in limbo right now, just waiting. Everything that was supposed to happen just came to a halt, including teaching English in Split 2 days a week and any other opportunities I had waiting. It feels like everything was stripped from underneath my feet, and I am having a really hard time coping with that. I know it will all be okay though, I am at least positive in that regard.
I miss being able to sit at the local Caffe for a couple of hours each day sipping on a coffee or a beer. Just sitting and enjoying somewhere outside of my house is what I am really missing right now, and human contact in the form of friends. I am an extrovert, and we’ve been forced into being INTROVERTS and that is also hilarious to me. And yes, I’m taking it all personally, just to throw some humor into the mix.
When did you realise that corona was going to be a big issue?
I really didn’t. I didn’t think it wasn’t going to be a global pandemic, I was so ignorant towards the whole thing. I was sitting in Black Dog in Split the night of the 18th when we were talking about it and reading on the news that everything would be shut down except essential shops and businesses. That’s when I knew it was going to be a big issue, because everything just got real from then on. Also, the fact that there was already 1 case in Croatia at that time, if I am correct. The next day, they were asking people to stay home if they didn’t need to go out, and then I started really reading the news reports and articles online. I honestly live in my own bubble, and this has forced me out of it.
What is your impression of the way Croatia is dealing with the crisis? How safe do you feel?
I personally think they are dealing with it a whole lot better than a lot of other countries, but that is my perspective. Some say they are going overboard, but I think it’s better to be safe than sorry in the long run. I feel really safe (especially being on an island, with no cases here so far), I am not too worried about myself, just other people and perhaps their careless attitudes towards it.
Now compare that to your home country and how they are handling it. What is Croatia doing better/worse?
I am originally from Vancouver, and I honestly try to keep my reading about it to a minimum, and mostly read what is happening in Croatia, because it’s information overload. From what I can see and read, British Columbia is doing a pretty great job at keeping it under the belt, though they were way behind in the self-isolation aspect and shutting down businesses right away. All in all, I am happy to be here and NOT there, because I have no feelings towards Vancouver anymore, and there are less people here so that brings me comfort I guess. It also really helps that my Mom is very in tune with what is happening in the world, so she informs me a lot about everything as she reads and listens all day.
What about official communications from the authorities, compared to your home country?
I believe the daily update here in Croatia is helpful. I cannot say the same for Solta, we have been given updates sometimes only every 4 days. As you know, living on an island compared to the rest of the country is so different. I feel that people on the island are very frustrated and I do not blame them one bit. Though some are freaking out daily about not having reports, I feel we don’t have too much to worry about. They want people to stop coming and going on the ferry (and not many people are going across except for those that work in Split, and those that work on the island, and honestly you cannot stop people from working). That attitude really bothers me here - the small village mentality, trying to control what others do and tattle-taling on them, spying on them, calling the Police on them for no reason other than to try and sabotage them. Just worry about yourselves, not what others are doing.
Meanwhile back in Canada, and major cities, they get a live update from the Canadian Prime Minister, and all the respective cities also have daily updates from the Health Minister, etc.
All in all, I think both countries are communicating urgently and wisely.
What's the one thing you wish you had taken with you into self-isolation?
Nothing really… now. I finally was delivered some art supplies 2 days ago from a friend in Split that ordered them for me online, and that is all I was missing during the first week of self-isolation, now I have them. I have my laptop, my phone, availability to take walks if need be, work out if I feel like it, etc. I can find things to do to keep me busy. Netflix has been a saviour for me!
One thing you have learned about yourself, and one thing you have learned about others during this crisis.
For me? That I don’t respond well to pandemics and panic. At all. I internalize everything, and if you could see what’s happening in my mind it would be a map of chaos and utter despair. And that I am really bad at keeping calm in situations that we’ve been taught our whole life to be ‘calm’ about. However, I am just going to go with the flow, and not force any feelings on myself, and hope that one day when this is all over I will have learned a valuable lesson about myself, and to eventually learn how to stay calm in situations that are out of my control. Also, one thing I have really learned is that I can do without so many things that I had easy access to before this all started. It’s funny how that happens.
What have I learned about others? That they are way more calm and prepared than I would have been. I’ve learned that some people are completely selfish and some that are completely willing to drop everything to help people, I admire that. I am also amazed at how people can be so resourceful at a time with less resources, kudos to them! I have to give props to my Mom for being the most calm during this situation as she’s always been well prepared for this sort of thing for years, because her personality always makes her think ahead. So I’m super thankful for her. I don't care too much about others at this point, just trying to get through these times with those that are close to me.
Thanks Gina, stay safe and see you on the other side.
TCN is starting a new feature series on foreign experiences of sitting out covid-19 here in Croatia compared to their home country. If you would like to contribute, the questions are below. Please also include a para about yourself and where you are from, and a link to your website if you would like. Please also send 3-4 photos minimum to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Subject Corona Foreigner
If you would be interested to record a video version for our partners www.rplus.video please let us know in the email. Thanks and stay safe.
Foreigners Self-Isolating in Croatia: Do You Feel Safer Than in Your Home Country?
Firstly, how are you? Are you alone/with someone? Tell us a little about your situation and sanity levels.
What do you think about the economic measures the government is taking, are they helping your business? (PLEASE IGNORE IF THIS DOES NOT AFFECT YOU)
When did you realise that corona was going to be a big issue?
What is your impression of the way Croatia is dealing with the crisis? How safe do you feel?
Now compare that to your home country and how they are handling it. What is Croatia doing better/worse?
What about official communications from the authorities, compared to your home country?
What's the one thing you wish you had taken with you into self-isolation.
One thing you have learned about yourself, and one thing you have learned about others during this crisis.
TCN has recently become a partner in Robert Tomic Zuber's new R+ video channel, initially telling stories about corona experiences. You can see the first TCN contribution from this morning, my video from Jelsa talking about the realities of running a news portal in the corona era below. If you would like to also submit a video interview, please find Robert's guidelines below
VIDEO RECORDING GUIDE
The video footage should be recorded so that the cell phone is turned horizontally (landscape mode).
There are several rules for television and video news:- length is not a virtue- a picture speaks more than a thousand words
In short, this would mean that your story should not last more than 90 seconds and that everything you say in the report should be shown by video (for example, if you talk about empty streets, we should see those empty streets, etc.).
How to do it with your cell phone? First, use a selfie camera to record yourself telling your story for about a minute and a half. Ideally, it would be taken in the exterior, except in situations where you are reporting on things in the interior (quarantine, hospital, self-isolation, etc.). Also, when shooting, move freely, make sure everything is not static.
After you have recorded your report, you should capture footage that will tell your story with a picture, such as an earlier example with empty streets.
One of the basic rules of TV journalism is that the story is told in the same way as a journalist with his text. Therefore, we ask you for additional effort. Because we work in a very specific situation, sometimes you may not be able to capture footage for each sentence of the report. In this case, record the details on the streets: people walking, the main features of the city where you live, inscriptions on the windows related to the virus, etc.
The same rules apply if you are shooting a story from your apartment, self-isolation, quarantine. We also need you to capture footage that describes your story.
When shooting frames to cover your reports, it is important that you change the angle of the shot (in other words, shoot that empty street from several angles). Also, when shooting a detail, count at least five seconds before removing the camera to another detail.
The material should be about 5 minutes long (90 seconds of your report + frames to cover your story).
After recording everything, send us to Zagreb, preferably via WeTransfer to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Nikola Božić of Đurina Hiža Restaurant Retains Workers and Employs More
As Marta Duic/Poslovni Dnevnik writes on the 31st of March, 2020, Nikola Božić is one of the few people in the Croatian hospitality sector who has decided to retain all his staff and hire three new employees, as well as properly pay everyone a salary during the current coronavirus crisis.
While many operating within the hospitality sector across the country are facing tremendous problems owing to the coronavirus pandemic the Đurina Hiža restaurant located in Varaždinske Toplice is an example to us all when it comes to how business can be done. The owner said it was not an easy decision to decide to retrain all of his staff and even hire more, but seeing that business troubles were fast approaching, he began to look for a new business concept that would help him and his staff to get through this extremely difficult period.
Đurina Hiža has six employees in total, including its owner, Nikola Božić, and they are joined by Nikola's mum and dad, who are at OPG Božić. A new employee is coming to them in May, and Nikola is still looking for three more employees for new projects he has planned. Đurina Hiža has been in business for thirteen years now, and OPG Božić has been in business since back in 2003. Although many in the industry have turned to the delivery of ready meals, Božić has pointed out that this isn't his choice.
"By the time it reaches the customer, the food is definitely losing its quality, which can affect the integrity of the brand, and people often cook at home these days. But quality foods never lose their value,'' explained Nikola.
That is why he gathered his family and associates together and started distributing his own meat and wine delicacies, which he supplies to five Croatian cities - Zagreb, Varaždin, Koprivnica, Ludbreg, and Čakovec. Some Slavonian and Dalmatian cities will also soon be on his route, and interest in local specialties is only growing. As Nikola pointed out, most of what they offer are domestic products from their own production, while other products are purchased from other farms in the area and from hunting societies and from domestic farms, which helps them out with their own respective businesses. They also buy fresh meat that they mature on their own.
Nikola also invited other OPGs to cooperate through social networks. He wants to distribute their products, first of all, to help, but also to enable residents of other cities to enjoy wonderful local delicacies.
"While my mum bakes home-made bread and pesto from onions, as well as natural juices from nettle and mint, my father lovingly prepares Sauvignon and Riesling grapes from his very own vineyard. My great passion is steaks such as T-Bone, Rib Eye and Tomahawk, and we also offer dried ham and homemade game sausages,'' said Nikola.
All of the aforementioned products, and soon yeast, can be ordered by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and the deliver will be right to your front door. Delivery is free, and more information can be found on Đurina Hiža's Facebook page.
Sharp Decline in Croatian Labour Demand Recorded Last Month
The economy is suffering tremendously with this unprecedented coronavirus outbreak, and now that the figures for Croatian labour demand in March 2020 are available, it's enough to make anyone concerned about the state of things.
As Adriano Milovan/Novac writes on the 2nd of April, 2020, following the outbreak of the coronavirus crisis, now being somewhat ''affectionately'' known as the coronacrisis, Croatian labour demand has fallen sharply, according to the OVI index of the Zagreb Institute of Economics.
Compared to March last year, in March this year, the OVI index fell by as much as 23.3 percent, while the monthly fall was 18.5 percent when compared to just one month before, in February. The Institute of Economics points out that there has been a big decline, which, however, still cannot be compared to the economically tragic year of 2009, when the OVI index fell significantly more strongly.
"This March index reflects the disruption of social and economic activities caused by the coronavirus pandemic," the Institute of Economics said briefly.
A particularly strong fall in March was seen in Croatian labour demand in the service sector. But in some professions, such as those in medicine, pharmaceuticals and the construction industry, there has been a significant increase in demand for work.
Viewed by region, all regions except Slavonia recorded a fall in Croatian labour demand in March 2020. Slavonia, on the other hand, had almost the same demand for work as it did in March last year, which isn't a particularly promising statistic to go on regardless of coronavirus.
The OVI index, a monthly labour market indicator developed by the Institute of Economics and the Moj Posao (My Job) portal, is in line with official data from the Croatian Employment Service (CES), which shows that in the second half of March 2020, the number of unemployed people in Croatia increased by over 13,000, of which more than 12,000 came from having been employed.
However, part of those unemployed people did go on to find a job in March, meaning that Croatia ''welcomed'' 143,454 newly unemployed people at the end of March, according to data.
Make sure to follow our dedicated section for rolling information and updates on coronavirus in Croatia.
How is Coronavirus Affecting Croatia's Rating? 5% GDP Drop Expected
The economic consequences of the coronavirus outbreak are potentially dire, and we're already seeing the negative effects the virus is having on the labour market, stock markets, and much more. With many Croatian companies having to deal with the brand new and utterly unexpected reality of not knowing whether or not they'll even exist in three months, these are truly nail biting times.
As Frenki Lausic/Novac writes on the 2nd of April, 2020, in a new rating, the Fitch credit rating agency left the Republic of Croatia's main rating at BBB minus, which is encouragingly still at investment level, but lowered its outlook from positive to a mere stable.
The aforementioned agency predicts, due to the crisis caused by the spread of coronavirus and the stringent restriction measures that have been put in place to try to combat it, that Croatia's GDP will drop by a significant 5.5 percent in 2020, instead of experiencing the previously projected growth of 2.9 percent.
"Croatia is highly dependent on tourism and activities related to tourism, which together account for 25 percent of the country's GDP. Croatia has taken measures to mitigate the coronavirus crisis, which will amount to 7.5 percent of GDP, but additional measures can be expected,'' stated Fitch, referencing a report that made this assessment before the Croatian Government adopted a second package of coronavirus measures.
In the baseline scenario, the agency expects a rapid recovery in the second half of the year and even economy growth of three percent in 2021, and an average growth of 2.2 percent in the coming years.
The Republic of Croatia's state budget deficit is also projected to grow to five percent in 2020, instead of the projected surplus of 0.2 percent so far, and a rise in public debt to 77.7 percent of GDP, instead of the previously expected 68.1 percent, is also now expected.
Make sure to follow our dedicated section for rolling information and updates on coronavirus in Croatia.
