Digital Nomad Life in Korcula, Croatia

"Expats in Korcula, appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people, who are always ready to help and make newcomers feel at home. They also love the rich history and tradition that is evident in the architecture, festivals, and local customs. The relaxed pace of life is another aspect that expats enjoy, as it allows them to slow down and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings. The local cuisine, which is a blend of Mediterranean and Balkan influences, is another highlight for many expats. They also appreciate the strong sense of community in Korcula, where people look out for each other and socialize regularly. The stunning natural beauty of the island, with its clear blue waters and lush green landscapes, is also a major draw for expats. Lastly, expats appreciate the safety and cleanliness of Korcula, making it a great place to raise a family or retire," explained one expat living in Korcula, Croatia.

"Expats in Korcula often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Croatian is a Slavic language that is quite complex and difficult to learn, especially for English speakers. Another challenge is the slower pace of life, which can be frustrating for those accustomed to a faster, more efficient lifestyle. Things often take longer to get done in Korula, and businesses may not operate with the same sense of urgency as in other countries. Understanding and adapting to the local customs and traditions can also be challenging. Croatian culture is rich and diverse, with a strong emphasis on family, religion, and national pride. This can sometimes make it difficult for expats to integrate and feel accepted. The bureaucracy in Croatia can also be a challenge for expats. Dealing with government agencies, utilities, and other official matters can be a slow and complicated process, often requiring a lot of paperwork and patience. Lastly, while Croatians are generally friendly and welcoming, they can also be quite reserved. This can make it difficult for expats to form deep, meaningful relationships with the locals," said one person in Korcula.

"If you are planning to stay in Korcula for a while, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. If you are an EU citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Croatia. You can stay in Croatia for up to 90 days without any special permission. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a temporary residence permit. If you are a non-EU citizen, you will need a visa to enter Croatia if your country does not have a visa-free agreement with Croatia. If you plan to stay in Croatia for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa or a temporary residence permit. To apply for a temporary residence permit, you will need to provide several documents, including proof of accommodation in Korcula, proof of health insurance, and proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. If you are planning to work in Croatia, you will also need a work permit. This is usually applied for by your employer in Croatia. Please note that the rules and requirements can change, so it's always a good idea to check with the Croatian embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Korcula.

"When visiting Korcula, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Here are some tips: Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as the Yugoslav Wars and the country's communist past. These subjects can still be quite sensitive for many Croatians. Do not assume that everyone speaks English. While many Croatians do speak English, especially in tourist areas, it's polite to learn a few basic phrases in Croatian. Avoid comparing Croatia to other former Yugoslav countries. Croatians are proud of their unique culture and heritage. Do not disrespect the Catholic Church. The majority of Croatians are Roman Catholic and the church plays a significant role in their culture and traditions. Avoid being overly loud or boisterous in public places. Croatians generally value modesty and discretion. Do not leave without saying goodbye. It's considered rude to leave a social gathering without saying goodbye to each person individually. Avoid being late. Punctuality is highly valued in Croatian culture. Do not ignore the local cuisine. Croatians are proud of their food and wine, so be sure to try local dishes and drinks. Avoid wearing revealing clothing in religious sites. When visiting churches or other religious sites, it's important to dress modestly out of respect. Do not forget to tip. While tipping is not mandatory in Croatia, it's customary to leave a small tip for good service in restaurants and cafes," said one expat who made the move to Korcula.