by Georgina Simmons

So where would you rather be?

Pula, Croatia.

Ok, when were you there?

September 2007, with a friend.

What’s all the fuss about?

We knew little of the Istrian Peninsula before arriving save for the fact that Pula is the largest town there. Aboard a train travelling from Trieste to the promised lands of Croatia, we were happy to stop somewhere we knew would be bustling and perhaps understanding of our appalling Croatian language skills. And happy we were, in a town with Roman amphitheatres here and Triumphal Arches there. Quite happy indeed.

Keep talking …

However, we took a trip slightly out of the centre and were well rewarded for the gamble. We found a youth hostel a stone’s throw from the ocean. And I mean this literally. It had its own harbour where we were left to snooze in the sun with nothing to interrupt us except the odd kite fluttering in our peripheries. While the buzz of the town was a mere bus ride away, we were quite content to settle ourselves in this sleepy port.

Anything else?

After several strenuous days soaking up the sun’s rays, we did venture along the coast to the fishing port of Rovinj. This town is surrounded by twenty-two islands, all areas of protected natural heritage, and you can appreciate why. We wound our way through the small medieval streets, adorned with the craft shops and fine eateries you might expect in such a spot, and found ourselves in the midst of the town’s weekly market day. It was fantastic.

If there’s one thing I should do while I’m there, what is it?

Hang around in Rovinj, build up your energy levels sampling the delicious treats on offer and take a trip to the top of the hill on the coast. Be warned, it’s steep. But the well-placed benches along the path will see you through. And it’s worth it. From here, you can see almost all of the islands I mentioned before. And should the sun get a little too much, it may be worth taking a look around St. Euphemia’s church which is perched on top.

Sounds great! I’ll pack my camera.