Colors of Opatija - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Culture of OPatija is a unique fusion of Slavonic, European and Oriental traditions. Local people are rather moderate, but as the same time amiable and friendly, they are trustful and supportive being ready to assist even a stranger. The main features of national character are sociability in communication and buoyancy. Residents of Opatija are really nice and agreeable being rather curious and interesting interlocutors.

Hospitality and good nature of local people are that traits which make this tourist destination popular among foreign travelers as they feel in Opatija as comfortable as at home. A major part of local folks has a good command of English language that is why foreign guests will not face a sufficient language barrier. However local people are very passionate about their ethnic culture and highly estimate it that is why a couple of phrases in Croatian will be much appreciated by local people and will be the best way to show the tourists’ respective attitude towards local culture traditions.

Local folks feature a rather serious attitude towards religion. Almost all the residents of the city regularly visit a church and always celebrate significant religious holidays. Travelers wishing to join local folks and visit some religious objects and destinations should keep in mind several general rules. Some religious objects require a dress code to enter the territory. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Women should not enter religious sights bareheaded. That is why they should have kerchiefs to cover heads. Bright, revealing clothes is unacceptable on the territory of religious objects. Considering the peculiarities of national character it should be noted that local men feature a kind of dandyism and peculiar passion to women. Setting off to a walk alone ladies may face an increased focus of attention from the side of local men. Such a behavior is peculiar to men of all ages and social statuses.

Another peculiar trait of character of local folks is passion to nature. One of the most popular kinds of leisure much preferred by local people is picnics in the country which they organize at the next opportunity. During a walk through the city curious tourists will notice that outfits of local folks commonly contain things with national symbols. People in Opatija are very patriotic and such acts are just one of the opportunities to show respect to native land and ethnic culture.

Throughout the year, Opatija hosts a lot of interesting events, from music festivals and concerts to a colorful regatta. One of the most famous festivals beyond Croatia is the Summer Sensual Days Opatija, which kicks off in the middle of the first summer month. Traditionally, music concerts take place in Centar Gervais nightclub. The music event's program includes not only concerts but also masterclasses and noisy parties (including beach ones). At the end of February, a colorful carnival is held in the city along with fancy-dress parades passing through the central streets. It is considered one of the brightest events in the life of the city. Apart from processions, visitors can enjoy a gastronomic program, musical and theatrical performances, and all kinds of workshops.

Well, those nostalgic for the "good old days" are invited to the RetrOpatija in late June. The event seems to take visitors back to the past when swing, disco, rockabilly, twist, jazz, and blues were in fashion. Eminent bands and performers who were popular in the 70s and 80s are invited as festival headliners. The venue is the central city streets where the atmosphere of those days reigns at this time. Hundreds of people wearing vintage clothes at the festival make the picture even more complete. Everyone can follow their example if they prepare outfits to fit the main theme.

For those who prefer exploring the local culture through its cuisine, there is no better festival than the Gourmet Story of Opatija Riviera. All interesting events take place in the central streets of the city. The festival lasts a whole month - from mid-May to mid-June, so gourmets will have enough time to taste local specialties. Here you can get acquainted with both modern cuisine and traditional dishes prepared according to "grandmother's recipes". Special focus is put on desserts - they will especially please the sweet tooth.

Another great event in Opatija is the Carski Grad, an event dedicated to the history of the city. It is traditionally held in mid-July at Opatija's historical center. Everything matches the atmosphere of the past here, just like street performers, dancers, and musicians dressed in authentic clothes do. It is worth noting that not only local artists, but also foreign ones are invited as participants. It is also worth mentioning the city's colorful regatta that can be witnessed in late February, mid-July, and late September. Tourists from all over the world come to see such bright shows. Opatija's embankment is never empty during regatta time.