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. Evenings and most weekends are generally free, although flexibility is essential—field schedules often shift due to weather, and free time may be rescheduled with little notice. 

Travel during the mid-semester break is required as SFS housing will be closed, and this period is the main opportunity for students to explore Croatia beyond the island of Lošinj. 

Students live in shared dormitories (3–4 per room) with communal dining facilities where meals are provided. A daily curfew is enforced throughout the program. 

During the semester, students have two off-island “long” weekends, during which the SFS Center is closed. Students must arrange their own travel, accommodation, and meals for these weekends. Similarly, during the mid-semester break, students must travel independently as housing is closed. 

Local dining options are available in tourist season (April–October) but become limited in the off-season (November–March), so students should plan accordingly. 

Physical Readiness 

Fieldwork involves boat rides of 2-4 hours for dolphin observation and turtle rescue 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 those windows, 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 may occur, especially while traveling. Students with severe allergies should consult studentlife@fieldstudies.org prior to applying. 

Required Vaccinations & Health Care 

SFS does not require specific vaccinations, but students are advised to meet with a travel medicine professional prior to 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 medical and counseling services are not available during the program. Students must bring a full supply of any prescription medications, including psychotropic drugs, for the entire duration of the program, as local refills are typically not feasible without prior arrangements.