The local tourist offices put
out an astonishing amount of information to help you travel to
Croatia. Some are just colourful brochures full of pretty
pictures but they've been getting much more sophisticated and helpful
over the years. Nearly everywhere along the coast and on Croatian islands,
you'll find detailed maps, lists
of local services, a practical
guide and often suggestions for hiking, cycling and
other active pursuits.
Each local tourist office (often called Turisticka
Zajednica) is staffed
at all times by at least one person who speaks English. Some take charge
of arranging private accommodation but all will at least point you to
an agency that will help you out. Often the tourist office will exchange
money (not at a very good rate) and some sell or display local products.
You can count on tourist offices to provide you with:
the location of the nearest service station that's open
Don't ask them to give you the name of a great local restaurant. They're
not allowed to recommend one local business over another. If they do,
be suspicious.