Croatia
Local SIM cards are widely available from major Croatian mobile providers: Hrvatski Telekom, A1, and Telemach.
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Learning a few basic Croatian phrases goes a long way and locals appreciate the effort. Consider a portable Wi-Fi device for constant connectivity: Solis Wi-Fi.
Shops typically Monday-Friday from 08:00/09:00 to 20:00/21:00. Saturdays shorter. Many smaller shops close for a mid-day siesta.
Banks operate Monday-Friday from 08:00 to 16:00/17:00. ATMs are widely available.
Museums and attractions typically 09:00/10:00-17:00/19:00, with extended summer hours. Cafes open early (around 07:00) and stay open late (until 23:00/00:00).
Lunch service usually runs from 12:00 to 15:00. Dinner service typically starts from 18:00/19:00 and continues until 23:00/00:00. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
Public holidays may result in closures of banks, post offices, and some shops. Many tourist-oriented businesses have reduced hours or close entirely in the low season (November-April).
Verify opening hours for specific attractions outside of peak summer as seasonal closures are common.
Engage with Šibenik's culture in a respectful and appreciative manner.
A simple "Bok" (hello/bye) is common and friendly, suitable for most casual interactions. "Dobar dan" (good day) is more formal. Handshakes are common upon introduction.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory (see 2.3 for details). Table service is standard. When toasting, say "Živjeli!" (Cheers!).
Avoid discussing political issues, especially those related to the recent Yugoslav wars, unless initiated by locals. Do not compare Croatia to Serbia in a negative way. Be mindful of national pride.
When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Maintain quiet and respectful behavior. Do not eat or drink inside these sacred spaces.
Šibenik's historic nature presents some challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
Šibenik's Old Town, with its steep, narrow, and cobblestone streets, and numerous stairs, poses significant challenges for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
Public buses may have limited accessibility. Pre-booking accessible taxis or private transfers is advisable.
Apps like Google Translate can assist with communication for hearing or visual impairments.
These services streamline your travel experience from arrival to departure.
Always confirm specific accessibility features with venues and service providers directly before your visit.