Diocletian's Palace
Last thoughts on Rovinj and the Istrian Peninsula. I see parallels between Panama/Costa Rica and Slovenia/Croatia, when it comes to the Istrian coast shared bz Slovenia and Croatia. Like Panama, Slovenia's economy does not rely on tourism - it is an economic after-thought. Therefore, the tourist businesses in Slovenia seemed laid back, friendlier, less hard sell. Croatia, so far, seems similar to Costa Rica. Tourism is big business, and the vendors seem intent on milking every euro/kuna out of the visitor. Prices are inflated, tourist spots are tackier (think mini golf and go-carts). Piran, Slovenia seemed quainter, quieter, and more charming than the larger Rovinj, Croatia, a bit further south on the Istrian Peninsula. Of course, my judgment is partially colored by an unscrupulous shop keeper and the creepy conspiracy-theorist of a hotel operator (he was not a big fan of Jewish bankers, particularly the Rothschilds and their supposed control of oil and the economy - he thought we should buy gold and wait to have children because the end was nigh).
We will head into Split's Old Town tomorrow to see Diocletian's Palace. More Roman ruins await!