What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Opatija?
We asked people in Opatija if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"When visiting Opatija, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Firstly, avoid discussing sensitive topics such as the Yugoslav Wars and the country's political history. These topics can stir up strong emotions and it's best to steer clear of them unless initiated by a local. Secondly, Croatians are generally quite religious, with a majority being Roman Catholic. Therefore, it's important to show respect towards religious customs and institutions. For instance, when visiting churches, dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor. Thirdly, punctuality is highly valued in Croatia. If you're invited to someone's home or a meeting, make sure to arrive on time. Being late can be seen as disrespectful. Fourthly, Croatians are proud of their language and culture. Try to learn a few basic phrases in Croatian. Using them will show your respect and appreciation for their culture. Lastly, tipping is customary in Croatia. In restaurants, it's common to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill. However, tipping is not mandatory and is left to your discretion. Remember, the key to avoiding cultural faux pas is to be respectful and mindful of the local customs and traditions," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Opatija, Croatia.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Opatija?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Opatija?
- Will I be able to find a job in Opatija?
- What is life like in Opatija?
- What do expats in Opatija appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Opatija?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Opatija accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Opatija like?
- What are healthcare services like in Opatija?
- What are medical services in Opatija like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Opatija?
- What are emergency services like in Opatija?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Opatija?
- How are local medical facilities in Opatija?
- As a foreigner living in Opatija, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Opatija?
If you live in Opatija, newcomers to Opatija would love to hear your answer to this question.