By Jude 
There is not much not to like about Croatia. The coastline is beautiful with crystal clear water, national parks offer experiences away from the crowds, and the (sea)food is worth going back for. But having said that, there are always a few things that you wish you had known before going. Read on for some of those tips.
Beautiful beaches – with bathing shoes
Most beaches in Croatia are not sandy but have pebbles or rocks. They look like postcards, but some people would find it challenging for their feet. So, if you are ‘some people’, it might be a good idea to bring bathing shoes. And we are not only talking about the kids… Bathing shoes may not fit with your outfit, but you will be able to walk like a normal person.
Public transportation or car rental?
The bus network in Croatia is actually ok, but it is not really intuitive to use. There is not just one company operating, but several, and it can be difficult to find timetables for the entire journey you wish to take. Furthermore, you should be prepared for some waiting and irregular departure times, especially if you travel between small towns.
The best solution for most tourists who want to see more than one town or place in Croatia is to hire a car. This makes it easier to get around and see what you want to see at your own pace. You can book online via a booking platform like discovercars.com, addcarrental.com, or booking.com. Or you can go book with the rental company directly, e.g,. Avis, Hertz, addCar Rental, or another agency that you trust.
Car rental in Croatia – book well in advance.
When you do a car rental in Croatia, you must have a valid driving license and you must have had it for at least 2 years. The age requirement is 23 years. If you have some specific wishes or requirements for the car that you are going to rent, you should be aware of peak seasons and book well in advance. This will both increase the likelihood that you will get the car you want, and it will probably also give you a better rate than if you book late or at your arrival at the destination.
When you pick up your rental car, you must bring your passport for identification and a credit card for the security deposit. It is also a good idea to check how you are covered by your insurance at home and if you need to add extra insurance from the rental company.
Cash is still king in some places.
Even though you can pay with a credit card in most shops and restaurants, it is still a good idea to have some cash as well. Especially if you want to buy fruit or things at the market, or visit a small local restaurant. ATMs take a fee each time you take out cash, so you might as well take out a larger amount once than a smaller amount several times.