Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) in Croatia

What you need to know about Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) in Croatia

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) in and around Croatia

About Croatia

Despite its relatively small size, Croatia presents a striking geographical diversity. It undoubtedly has a unique charm for those indulging in fantasies of an idyllic beach holiday. Being home to a vast stretch of seafront that spans thousands of miles and an intriguing archipelago with hundreds of islands, Croatia upholds a significant appeal for lovers of sun, sand, and surf.

Beyond its appealing coastlines, Croatia encompasses much more in its terrains. The expanse of the country is dotted with rugged, dramatic mountains that serve as the perfect backdrop to ancient towns that are enclosed within historical walls. The country is rich in untouched national parks that are truly a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

You also get a glimpse of regal history through majestic castles that mark the Croatian landscape. The icing on the cake is its fantastic cuisine that adds a flavorful dimension to one's experiences. Last but not least, the impressive Roman ruins scattered across the country are a testament to its astonishing historical heritage, enticing history buffs worldwide to explore Croatia.

Although Croatia is a newcomer to the medical tourism sector, the demand for medical services in the country by foreign patients is increasing. Its strong growth is largely driven by the high cost of private care and long waiting times in public healthcare in countries such as the UK and the US. Croatia is known to have affordable, top-quality treatments performed by highly qualified medical professionals. Also, medical centers in the country have modern equipment, friendly staff, and exceptional services.

Popular Parts of Croatia

Zagreb, the bustling capital of Croatia, is a vibrant city that boasts a blend of verdant parks, unconventional art galleries, and enticing museums. Even though the city pulsates with modern energy, its scenery stands distinguished by an array of neo-baroque and art deco buildings that impart a unique architectural charm.

The vibrant city of Zagreb brims with an eclectic mix of attractions that can appeal to a wide range of tastes and interests. One such unique point of interest is the Museum of Broken Relationships. This peculiar museum offers an offbeat exploration into the vestiges of love that has ended, providing a distinctively intimate glimpse into personal stories of heartbreak.

Another notable site that significantly attracts visitors is the serene Mirogoj. Not just an ordinary cemetery, Mirogoj stands out as one of the finest architectural gems in Croatia, offering a peaceful retreat within the lively cityscape. Balancing modern dynamics with a deep-rooted cultural heritage, Zagreb indeed offers engaging facets for every type of traveler.

The Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, standing as a symbol of the country’s rich artistic history, is a must-visit for art aficionados. Further, the bustling Dolac Market is the city's epicentre for fresh produce where locals and tourists alike converge. Rounding off the list is the Funicular Railway, another essential experience that offers a charming way to take in Zagreb's panoramic views.

Those who want to enjoy Croatian’s famous beaches and explore ancient monuments should visit Dubrovnik. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” this city has a giant walled Old Town, stunning mountains, and idyllic beaches.

Weather and Climate in Croatia

Croatia's summer season, extending from July to August, is characterized by lovely warm weather and dry conditions, with a generous sprinkling of sunshine across most days. Transition seasons such as spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) also offer a fairly warm and agreeable climate, making them pleasant times to visit. However, the spring season can sometimes bring increased rainfall.

On the other hand, winters in Croatia, particularly in January, can dip into colder temperatures. This chill factor is more pronounced in areas of higher elevations, where it's common to witness snowy landscapes. Each season in Croatia brings with it a distinctive climate and charm, shaping the country's scenic beauty in different ways throughout the year.

As the calendar flips over to the cooler months, the Croatian landscape transitions from sun-kissed beaches to frost-laden terrains, especially in the elevated regions of the country. Here, it is not unusual to see snowfall, adding a whole new dimension to Croatia's captivating beauty. Still, regardless of the weather, Croatia retains its charm, offering visitors an array of unique experiences all year round. The country's seasonal moods only add to its diverse appeal, ensuring that there's always something beautiful to see or experience, making Croatia a truly year-round destination.

Getting around in Croatia

Zagreb Airport claims the title of being the largest and most frequented international airport in Croatia. This bustling transport hub is where the majority of global explorers set foot in the country.

The airport operates a host of both regular and seasonal air services that connect Zagreb to numerous metropolises worldwide. Notable among these are Paris, Toronto, London, Barcelona, Dubai, and Seoul, further emphasising Zagreb Airport's significance in global travel.

There are good transport options in Croatia. Domestic flights are the fastest option to get around, though they can be a bit expensive. The bus network is run by a lot of different companies and is generally comfortable.

The Croatian Railways has a reasonably efficient service and is cheaper than buses, but they are slower and less frequent. There is a large network of catamarans and car ferries. In major cities, the main form of transport is buses. Taxis are available and are expensive. 

Tourist Visas in Croatia

EU nationals, Canadian, Australian, British, and US nationals do not need to apply for a visa to stay in Croatia for up to 90 days. While Croatia is not yet a member of the Schengen area, holders of Schengen visas to enter the country without having to apply for an additional visa. 

Tips for applying for a tourist visa to Croatia:

• Plan ahead. It is important to apply for your visa well in advance of your travel date, as the processing time can vary depending on the country where you are applying.
• Be complete and accurate. Make sure to complete the visa application form accurately and completely, and provide all of the required supporting documents.
• Pay the visa application fee. The visa application fee varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.
• Attend a visa interview, if required. Some nationalities may be required to attend a visa interview at the Croatian embassy or consulate in their home country.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: Croatian kuna (HRK) is the official currency in Croatia. 1 USD is equivalent to 7.08 HRK.​​​​​​
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widespread. Credit cards, including MasterCard and Visa, are widely accepted around the country. Tipping in Croatia is expected, although it is not obligatory. It is standard to leave a 10% to 15% gratuity in restaurants. Taxi drivers usually do not expect tips, but it is common to round to the nearest kuna.
3. Local Language: The official language is Croatian. Serbian, Hungarian, Slovenian, and Italian are spoken by ethnic minorities living in the country. In tourist areas, people speak good English, as well as some German and Italian. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: More than 87% of Croatia’s population adhere to Roman Catholic, while Eastern Orthodox Serbs are followed by around 4.4% of the population. There are small groups of Muslims, Jews, and Protestants as well. 
5. Public holidays: Some of the most important public holidays in Croatia are Christmas, Epiphany, Easter Monday, Labor Day, Saint Stephen’s Day, Corpus Christi, All Saints’ Day, and Assumption Day.