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Food &Drink: The Adriatic coast is renowned for the variety of seafood dishes, including scampi, prstaci (shellfish) and brodet (mixed fish stewed with rice) all cooked in olive oil and served with vegetables. In the interior visitors should sample manistra od bobica (beans and fresh maize soup).
The regional wines are good. Italian espresso is also popular and cheap.
Shopping: Traditional handicrafts like embroidery, woodcarvings and ceramics make good souvenirs. Tourists can reclaim VAT for expenditure of more than K500. Visitors should ensure that all receipts are retained after any purchase is made, as financial police do have the power to fine visitors without relevant documents. This is to prevent VAT evasion by shopkeepers. Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1900; Sat 0800-1400.
Special Events: For further details of festivals and special events, contact the Croation National Tourist Board (see address section). The following is a selection of special events celebrated in Croatia during 2001:
May 17-20 2001 Adriatic Corporate Games, Umag. Jun 26-Jul 6 International Children's Festival, Sibenik. Jun 29-Aug 2 Zagreb Summer Festival. Jul 4-Aug 5 Musical Evenings, Zadar. Jul 5-7 Dakovo Broideries Festival (traditional music, costume and dance) Dakovo. Jul 10-Aug 25 Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Jul 14-Aug 14 Split Summer (drama, opera, ballet, music). Aug 5 Sinj Chivalric Riding, Sinj. Sep 20-22 Autumn in Vinkovci (traditional costume, music and dance), Vinkovci. Sep 24 -Oct 2 Varazdin Baroque Evenings, Varazdin.
Social Conventions: People normally shake hands upon meeting and leaving. Smoking is generally acceptable but there are restrictions in public buildings and on public transport. Photography: Certain restrictions exist. Tipping: 10 per cent is expected in hotels, restaurants and taxis.
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