After 2 and a half weeks in Copenhagen, we took a 180 degree turn to Croatia. From a pristine and ultra cultured city to a fall back in time medieval village. The contrast could not be greater. Our new home base is an old, hillside town of Labin. Labin dates back to the 4th century BC and was first named by the Celts “Albona.” Meaning “town on a hill.”
Labin is crumbling and rising simultaneously. The brightly, colored houses are nestled side by side as a fortress to the outside world. The buildings are worn with time and the hot sun. The narrow, winding streets are paved uneven with quarried stone from the local mines.
There are only a few restaurants and most of them pizzerias. DELICIOUS. There is only one spot open for breakfast in September, but there is plenty of seating. The day tourists and locals both enjoy an espresso or cappuccino to start the day. I recommend the crepes with warm jam and ice cream. Yes, I said ice cream for breakfast! Yum!
Labin is a fall back into time. It is patriarchal. The only, small church signage reminds women to ‘cover up’ before entering. I adore the church anyway. I’m happy to follow the instructions as I know Mary and God like my knees even if covered.
English is not spoken widely but enough do speak it to get by. The Croatian language is a mystery to me. It is so different to my ear, I don’t know where to enter. I am grateful for their language skills to reach to me though.
Besides the beauty of the town, Labin is incredibly affordable. Always a plus. This month shall unfold with surprises I’m sure. A trip to Venice is absolutely due! Kenny will be mountain biking while I will go wander the town square for pizza and ice cream. I believe I am winning on those days. lol.
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