My name is James I am planning to visit Croatia and these are some recommendations given by Croatians in a public forum.
I am Luka and I would like to tell you a bit about my culture
If you are planning to visit Croatia when you meet someone for the very first time, remember that greetings tend to be formal, a handshake with direct eye contact is the most common form of greeting
If you want to make a good impression, you could use expressions such as ‘dobro jutro’ (‘good morning’), ‘dobar dan’ (‘good day’), or ‘dobra večer’ (‘good evening’).
I am Nika and I would like to tell you about religion and family in Croatia.
Keep in mind that Croatia is a secular state but the majority of us identify ourselves as Roman Catholics so catholicism is an important aspect of our identity.
65% of Croatians believe that the term “marriage” applies exclusively to a man and a woman and this show that Croatians can be somehow conservative
Traditionally, the Croatian household was composed of grandparents, parents, and two or more children, adult children live with their parents until they are married or can financially support themselves.
I am Mark since you asked me about etiquette, there are some important things you should keep in mind:
- People tend to dress neatly and modestly. Wearing overly casual clothing in public may be considered inappropriate.
- Greet people as you pass them casually around the workplace or in public.
- Croatians tend to be extremely punctual and expect others to be on time.
- Croatians are quite hospitable and will try to be exceptional hosts
- It is considered impolite to refuse refreshments from the host.
- Croatians tend to keep their hands above the table when eating
- It is very common for a glass of wine to accompany the meal.
I am Petra and these are some things you should avoid talking about or doing when visiting Croatia.
- Do not refer to Croatia as Yugoslavia or to a Croatian as ‘Yugoslavian’.
- Avoid discussing the conflict between Croatia and Serbia
- Avoid insulting Catholicism. In Croatia, appearing heretical or boasting about one’s non-religious position can be offensive.
- Don’t be critical of the country’s economic status.
- Do not touch each other when you speak
