Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Enjoy the friendliness of the local people. Connect with the culture. Set up your own
quest for the best bell tower, mountain vista, or scenic seafront perch. Slow down and be
open to unexpected experiences. Ask questions—most locals are eager to point you toward
their idea of the right direction. Keep a notepad in your pocket for noting directions, organ-
izing your thoughts, and confirming prices. Wear your money belt, learn the local curren-
cies, and figure out how to estimate prices in dollars. Those who expect to travel smart, do.
Croatia and Slovenia—while just over two decades removed from communism—are no
longer Europe's bargain basement. Although local economies are struggling along with
everyone else's due to the global crisis, the cost of living in Croatia and Slovenia has come
close to their European neighbors. Things aren't exactly cheap here—but they're still more
affordable than similar, better-established tourist countries, such as Italy or Switzerland. If
you'recarefultoavoidinflatedtourist-trapprices(byfollowingmytipsonwheretostayand
where to eat), a trip to this region can be a good value. If you detour into Bosnia-Herzegov-
ina, you'll find prices substantially lower (though Montenegro is, if anything, pricier than
Croatia and Slovenia).
Five components make up your trip costs: airfare, surface transportation, room and
board, sightseeing and entertainment, and shopping and miscellany.
Airfare:
A basic round-trip flight from the US to Ljubljana or Dubrovnik can cost
$1,300-1,900, depending on where you fly from and when (cheaper in winter). Consider
saving time and money in Europe by flying into one city and out of another; for instance,
flyingintoLjubljanaandoutofDubrovnikoftensavestheextracost(nottomentionwasted
time) of a 12-hour overland return trip to Ljubljana.
Croatia
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Zagreb
Croatia'sunderrated capital city,with interesting museums (the best fea-
ture Naive Art and Broken Relationships), lush parks, and a lively urban bustle, plus
the nearby town of Samobor.
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Plitvice Lakes National Park
Arguably Europe's most breathtaking natural
wonder: a forested canyon filled with crystal-clear lakes, stunning waterfalls, and
easy-to-hike boardwalks and trails.
