The Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Traders offers citizens some unusual tips for their travels to Croatia.
Croatia, the increasingly popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world, is unquestionably no stranger to large numbers of Australian tourists.
Thus, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs has published a list of useful tips on its official Government website, urging citizens to follow these guidelines carefully during a visit to Croatia.
While items such as ensuring you have travel insurance and making sure you monitor local media for information is nothing new, the Department of Foreign Affairs took things a step further, resulting in a series of rather unusual tips for Australian travelers coming to Croatia.
The official travel advice was published on June 14, 2017, and was quickly picked up by Croatian media outlets Jutarnji List and Dalmacija Danas over the last few days.
Here are some of the standout points:
• Rowdy and drunken behaviour in public is not a typical feature of the local culture. Travellers should be aware that such behaviour will attract negative attention.
• Excessive alcohol consumption has been the cause of serious accidents on 'party boats' cruising the Croatian coast.
• Drug-related arrests are increasing at electronic music festivals on the Croatian coast. Australians should not consume, purchase or sell drugs, or keep company with those who do.
• Driving in Croatia can be hazardous and accidents are common.
• Protests or demonstrations may occur in Croatia. Monitor the news and other sources for information on planned and possible demonstrations or other civil unrest. Avoid all crowds, protests and demonstrations as they may turn violent. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, occurs, most commonly in busy tourist areas, at bus and railway stations, on public transport and at beaches. There have been reports of gangs staging roadside emergencies and then robbing drivers who stop to offer assistance.
• Never accept food or drink from strangers as there have been incidents where it has been laced with drugs.
• Check prices prior to ordering drinks at bars and "cabarets", particularly along the coast. There have been several incidents reported in coastal tourist centres of some establishments charging exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging have been known to lead to threats of violence, and security guards may compel you to pay. Australians are encouraged to report any such incidents to local police.
• Homosexual activity is not illegal in Croatia. However, public displays of affection between same-sex couples have been known to provoke negative reactions.
