Fact or fake: Andrej Kramarić on Croatia

Andrej, Croatia have the most beautiful beaches in Europe, doesn’t it?

“Anyone who has ever been there cannot disagree. The coast is unbelievably beautiful. No matter where you go, you can enjoy the nature everywhere. The water is incredibly clear. But it’s not only the beaches that are beautiful; the towns are unbelievable too. No wonder Game of Thrones was partly filmed in Croatia. For me, it’s the most beautiful country in the world.”

The beaches are important because the sun always shines in Croatia.

“As nice as that would be, it’s unfortunately not true. (laughs) In the winter, it can get rainy and chilly in Croatia too. But fortunately not as bad as in Germany. When all the tourists are there in the summer, my country shows its best side. Then you have to be unlucky to catch any bad weather.”

Croats are extremely hospitable.

“We have a different mentality. Everyone is relaxed and loves life. It’s also okay in Croatia if you don’t take everything too seriously. When you visit Croatia, you’re never alone. The people are very friendly and create a great feeling of community. And we sometimes get together for a drink too.” (laughs)

You’re welcoming, but it’s not as organised as it is in Germany.

“Since we joined the EU, everything has been slightly more organised. Compared to Germany, it was a different world before that. Everything was more relaxed. That of course has several positive aspects, but a few negative ones too. But we’re improving in the sense that we’re getting a bit more order in our everyday lives.”

Only Croatia has the best Ćevapčići.

“There is nowhere where the Ćevapčići are more delicious, but they taste just as good in Bosnia and Serbia. Unfortunately, restaurants in Germany cannot compete. I’ve often tried our Croatian national dish here, but I haven’t found a restaurant that can compete with the original from my home country.”

Luka Modrić is the best Croatian footballer in history.

“There are no two ways about it. What Luka has achieved in the past 20 years is unbelievable. He’s still a first-team regular at Real Madrid at the age of 38. I’ve never played alongside a better footballer. Luka even managed to become the world footballer of the year during the best era of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in 2018.”

In addition to football, water polo is your national sport.

“Football is of course the clear No. 1, but then there’s handball and basketball. I would say water polo only comes after that. In general, we’re total ball sports enthusiasts. It feels like every child grows up with a ball and is talented at one sport or another. It’s just the lifestyle that sometimes doesn’t suit a career.” (laughs)