Croatia

Living Conditions & Daily Life 

Students follow a structured schedule, typically from 7 AM to 7 PM on weekdays, with classes and field activities throughout the day. Students live in shared dormitories (3–4 per room) with communal dining facilities where meals are provided. Local dining options are available in tourist season (April–October) but become limited in the off-season (November–March). A daily curfew is enforced throughout the program.  

Evenings and most weekends are generally free for exploration of Mali and Veli Losinj, rest, or participation in occasional program-organized activities, however, flexibility is essential—field schedules often shift due to weather, and free time may be rescheduled with little notice.  

During the semester, students have two off-island ‘long’ weekends and one mid-semester break, during which the SFS Center is closed. For these weekends, students are responsible for arranging their own travel, accommodation, and meals. Similarly, during the mid-semester break, students must travel independently. This break also serves as the primary opportunity for students to explore Croatia beyond the island of Lošinj. 

Physical Readiness 

Fieldwork involves boat rides of 2-4 hours for dolphin observation, assisting at the turtle rescue center, and walking or standing on uneven terrain for up to 1.5 hours. Boat fieldwork is dependent on favorable weather, and students should expect to prioritize time on the water, even at the expense of planned free time. 

Students must be able to comfortably walk 3+ miles and navigate steep hills and uneven stone walkways around Veli Lošinj. These conditions may be difficult for students with lower extremity injuries, spine or neck conditions, or limited mobility. 

Public transportation is minimal, so walking is the primary mode of local travel. A short swim test is required prior to participating in water-based fieldwork. 

Students with motion sickness, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities should consider the prevalence of smoking in Croatian culture and the physical challenges of extended boat trips. 

Travel & Transitions 

Students are based in Veli Lošinj, with most fieldwork occurring within or near the town, minimizing the need for regular long-distance travel. Day trips are typically short—a 10-minute vehicle ride to Mali Lošinj or boat trips within 1 mile of the marina. 

One longer, off-island trip occurs during the semester and depends on the commercial ferry schedule and weather conditions. 

Program Location & Natural Environment 

Veli Lošinj is a quaint island town on the Adriatic Sea, rich with history, hiking trails, and serene coastal landscapes. Hikes range from gentle paved walks to steep, rugged climbs. Students may explore archeological sites and enjoy local amenities like cafes, pharmacies, and small grocery stores—though these are often closed or reduced during the off-season. 

Students should be prepared for interactions with insects, birds, and other wildlife and for seasonal changes in both environment and accessibility. 

Cultural & Linguistic Differences 

Croatia has a strong Catholic identity, and stores are often closed or have reduced hours on Sundays. Regional traditions, direct communication styles, and casual dress norms may differ from student expectations. 

Students are not required to speak Croatian, but learning basic phrases enhances cultural immersion, especially in smaller communities. All courses are taught in English. 

Allergies & Dietary Preferences 

Croatian cuisine is hearty and meat- and starch-heavy. While the SFS kitchen can accommodate most allergies, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets may be difficult to maintain consistently.

Students have access to a small kitchen in the dormitory, but cooking full meals regularly is not feasible due to the program’s schedule.

Cross-contamination accommodations for advanced allergies abroad may not be feasible. Students with severe or life-threatening allergies and/or strict dietary requirements must consult with medical professionals and studentlife@fieldstudies.org before applying.

Required Vaccinations & Health Care 

SFS does not require specific vaccinations for this program. For additional recommendations, consultation with a travel medicine professional is strongly advised before departure.

Basic medical care is available 10 minutes from the SFS Center, but specialist treatment may require travel to the mainland, often involving overnight stays due to ferry schedules. Psychiatric care is not available on the island. In severe emergencies, air evacuation may be required.

Routine in-person medical and counseling services are not feasible during the program. Students must bring a full supply of any prescription medications, including psychotropic medications, for the entire duration of the program, as local refills may not be available without prior arrangements.