Pula: The Jewel of the Adriatic

• HelloBok
  [Bohk]
• GoodbyeDoviđenja
  [Doh-vee-jen-ya]
• YesDa
  [Dah]
• NoNe
  [Neh]
• Please/You're welcomeMolim
  [Moh-leem]
• Thank youHvala
  [Hvah-lah]
• Excuse me/SorryOprosti
  [O-pros-tee]
• How are you?Kako si?
  [Kah-koh see?]
• Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
  [Doh-bro. Ah tee?]
• Do you speak English?Govoriš li engleski?
  [Go-vo-reesh lee eng-les-kee?]
• I don't understandNe razumijem
  [Neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMolio bih meni, molim
  [Moh-lee-oh bee meh-nee, moh-leem]
• I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
  [Neh yeh-dem meh-so]
• Cheers!Živjeli!
  [Zhee-vyeh-lee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseŽelio bih platiti, molim
  [Zheh-lee-oh bee pla-tee-tee, moh-leem]

• Help!Pomoć!
  [Poh-mohch!]
• Go away!Idi odavde!
  [Ee-dee oh-dahv-deh!]
• Call the Police!Pozovi policiju!
  [Poh-zoh-vee po-lee-tsee-yoo!]
• Call a doctor!Pozovi doktora!
  [Poh-zoh-vee dohk-toh-rah!]
• I'm lostIzgubio/la sam se
  [Eez-goo-byo/lah sahm seh]
• I'm illBolesno mi je
  [Boh-les-noh mee yeh]

• I'd like to buy...Želim kupiti...
  [Zheh-leem koo-pee-tee]
• I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [Sah-moh gleh-dahm]
• How much is it?Koliko košta?
  [Koh-lee-koh koh-shta?]
• That's too expensiveTo je previše skupo
  [Toh yeh preh-vee-sheh skoo-poh]
• Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cijenu?
  [Moh-zheh-teh lee spoos-tee-tee tsee-yeh-noo?]

• What time is it?Koliko je sati?
  [Koh-lee-koh yeh sah-tee?]
• It's one o'clockJedan je sat
  [Yeh-dahn yeh saht]
• Half past (10)Pola (deset)
  [Poh-lah (deh-set)]
• MorningJutro
  [Yoo-troh]
• AfternoonPopodne
  [Poh-pohd-neh]
• EveningVečer
  [Veh-chehr]
• YesterdayJučer
  [Yoo-cher]
• TodayDanas
  [Dah-nahs]
• TomorrowSutra
  [Soo-trah]
• 1Jedan
  [Yeh-dahn]
• 2Dva
  [Dvah]
• 3Tri
  [Tree]
• 4Četiri
  [Cheh-tee-ree]
• 5Pet
  [Peh-t]
• 6Šest
  [Shehst]
• 7Sedam
  [Seh-dahm]
• 8Osam
  [Oh-sahm]
• 9Devet
  [Deh-vet]
• 10Deset
  [Deh-set]

• Where's a/the...?Gdje je...
  [Gdyeh yeh...]
• What's the address?Koja je adresa?
  [Koh-yah yeh ah-dreh-sah?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na karti)?
  [Moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-kah-zah-tee (nah kahr-tee)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Kada je sljedeći (autobus)?
  [Kah-dah yeh sleh-deh-chee (ow-toh-boos)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Jednu kartu (do ...)
  [Yeh-dnoo kar-too (doh ...)]

The city of Pula, located on the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was first settled by the Histri tribe, an Illyrian people, around the 10th century BC. The strategic location of Pula made it an attractive site for various civilizations that followed.

Pula flourished under Roman rule, beginning in 177 BC when it became a Roman colony. The city was known as Pietas Julia and was an important center for trade and military presence. The Romans left a lasting legacy in Pula, including the magnificent Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Other notable Roman structures include the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of the Sergii.

Following the decline of the Roman Empire, Pula became part of the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century. During this period, the city experienced a series of invasions by the Ostrogoths and Lombards. Despite these challenges, Pula managed to retain its importance as a strategic and commercial hub.

From the 13th century until the late 18th century, Pula was under the control of the Venetian Republic. This period was marked by economic growth as the city became an important maritime center. The Venetian influence is still evident in Pula's architecture, including the city walls and fortifications built to protect it from Ottoman incursions.

In 1797, Pula became part of the Habsburg Monarchy following the Treaty of Campo Formio. Under Habsburg rule, the city underwent significant modernization and development. The Austro-Hungarian Navy established its main naval base in Pula, leading to the construction of shipyards, docks, and other military facilities that contributed to the city's growth.

Pula experienced turbulent times during the 20th century, including occupation by Italian forces after World War I. The city was heavily militarized and saw significant changes in its demographic and cultural landscape. During World War II, Pula was heavily bombed, resulting in substantial damage to its infrastructure.

After World War II, Pula became part of Yugoslavia and underwent a period of reconstruction and development. The city's economy diversified, and it became a center for shipbuilding and tourism. The cultural heritage of Pula was preserved and promoted, attracting visitors from around the world.

Today, Pula is a vibrant city that blends its rich historical past with modern amenities. It is known for its cultural festivals, such as the Pula Film Festival held in the Roman amphitheater. Pula's historical sites, beautiful coastline, and lively cultural scene make it a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique and immersive experience.

Pula is accessible via several means of transportation. The nearest airport is Pula Airport (PUY), located about 6 kilometers from the city center. There are direct flights from various European cities, especially during the summer season. For those traveling by land, Pula is well-connected by bus and train services from cities across Croatia and neighboring countries. You can also reach Pula by car via the A9 highway if you are traveling from within Croatia or Slovenia.

Once in Pula, getting around is relatively easy. The city has an efficient public bus system operated by Pulapromet, covering the major attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis are available but can be more expensive, so it's advisable to use them for short trips. Renting a bicycle or scooter is another popular option, especially during the summer months when the weather is pleasant. For those looking to explore nearby regions, car rentals are available at several locations within the city.

The official currency in Croatia is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Pula, including in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, street vendors, and markets. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the city, including at the airport and major tourist areas.

Pula is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid carrying large sums of money and keep your valuables secure. Be cautious in crowded areas such as markets and tourist hotspots where pickpocketing can occur. The neighborhoods around the city center are generally safe, but it's best to avoid poorly lit areas at night.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the general emergency number in Croatia. The local police station is located in the city center, and there are several medical facilities, including the Pula General Hospital, for any medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also readily available for minor health issues, and most pharmacists speak English.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but avoid beachwear in the city center. When visiting religious sites, opt for modest clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Cover your shoulders and knees when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do validate your bus ticket when boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport as it is considered disrespectful. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day) and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Istrian pasta and seafood. Don't leave a large tip; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is customary.

To experience Pula like a local, visit the Pula Market (Pulska Tržnica) for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with the locals, as they are usually friendly and eager to share stories about their city. Don’t miss exploring the Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Lungomare coastal promenade or enjoy a day trip to the nearby Brijuni Islands.