Digital Nomad Life in Rovinj, Croatia
Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Rovinj, Croatia. Get tips from others living in Rovinj about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Rovinj and more.
Where should I live in Rovinj?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Rovinj, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from apartments, houses, or even villas, depending on your preference and financial capability. Next, you should research about the different neighborhoods in Rovinj to understand their unique characteristics. Some popular areas include the Old Town, Borik, and Centener. Consider factors such as proximity to amenities, safety, and the overall atmosphere of the neighborhood. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rental properties in Rovinj. Websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Njuskalo.hr are popular among locals and expats. These platforms allow you to filter your search based on your preferences, and you can also read reviews from previous tenants. Alternatively, you can engage the services of a real estate agent. They can provide you with expert advice and access to listings that may not be available online. However, keep in mind that you may need to pay a commission for their services. Once you've found a potential place, arrange for a viewing. This will give you a chance to inspect the property and ask any questions you may have. If you're satisfied with the property, you can then proceed to negotiate the terms of the lease. Before signing the lease, make sure to read it carefully. Understand the terms and conditions, including the duration of the lease, the rent, and any additional costs such as utilities or maintenance fees. If everything is in order, you can then sign the lease and make the necessary payments. Finally, once you've secured your new home in Rovinj, you'll need to register your address with the local authorities. This is a legal requirement in Croatia and can usually be done at the local police station," explained one expat living in Rovinj, Croatia.
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Rovinj?
"Expats in Rovinj appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people. They love the relaxed pace of life and the emphasis on enjoying simple pleasures. The rich history and beautiful architecture of the city are also greatly admired. Expats appreciate the local food and wine culture, with its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They also enjoy the numerous festivals and events that celebrate Croatian culture and tradition. The natural beauty of Rovinj, with its stunning coastline and picturesque landscapes, is another aspect that expats love. They also value the safety and cleanliness of the city. Lastly, expats appreciate the opportunity to learn and use the Croatian language, which they find challenging but rewarding," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Rovinj.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Rovinj?
"Expats in Rovinj often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Croatian is a Slavic language and can be difficult to learn, especially for those who are used to Romance or Germanic languages. Another challenge is the slower pace of life, which can be frustrating for those used to a faster, more efficient pace. Things often take longer than expected in Rovinj, from getting a driver's license to setting up a bank account. The bureaucracy in Croatia can also be a challenge for expats. There can be a lot of red tape involved in simple tasks, and the process can be confusing and time-consuming. Understanding and adapting to the local customs and traditions can also be a challenge. Croatians are generally very traditional and conservative, and it can take time for expats to understand and respect these traditions. Finally, while Croatians are generally friendly and welcoming, it can take time to build deep relationships. Croatians tend to have close-knit circles of friends and family, and it can be difficult for expats to break into these circles," said one expat who made the move to Rovinj.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Rovinj for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in Rovinj for a period longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a temporary residence permit. This can be done at the local police station in Rovinj. The documents you will need for this application include a valid passport, proof of health insurance, proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, and a reason for your stay such as work, study, or family reunification. 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. If you are a citizen of a non-EU country, you will also need a visa to enter Croatia. This should be applied for at the Croatian embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel. Please note that the exact requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it is recommended to check the latest information from the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs," said one expat in Rovinj.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Rovinj?
We asked people in Rovinj if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"When visiting Rovinj, 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 breakup of Yugoslavia. These are still very sensitive subjects for many Croatians. Do not refer to the Croatian language as a dialect of Serbian, or vice versa. They are considered separate languages. Avoid making negative comments about the Catholic Church. Croatia is predominantly Catholic and the Church plays a significant role in the country's culture and history. 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 being overly loud or boisterous in public places. Croatians generally value modesty and discretion. Do not disrespect the sea and nature. Croatians are very proud of their natural heritage and expect visitors to treat it with respect. Avoid being late. Punctuality is highly valued in Croatia. Do not forget to tip. In Croatia, it's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants and cafes. Avoid wearing revealing clothing in religious sites. When visiting churches or other religious sites, it's respectful to dress modestly. Do not ignore local customs and traditions. Croatians are proud of their culture and appreciate when visitors show an interest and respect for their customs," explained one person living in Rovinj, Croatia.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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