This was a day to do laundry on a rainy morning and then to explore the lovely town of Opatija. The front desk said there were no laundromats in their town. Hmmm, so we washed clothes in the sink and hung them everywhere to dry. Later we found out that the Aussies found a nearby place to do their laundry. The hotel was actually quite nice and our room had side views looking to the sea and a straight-on view of a “communist” era “soviet style” building from 60’s and 70’s – ugly and dirty.
By mid-day the sun was coming out and we were ready to explore. We ate lunch at a little place recommended by our guide called Rousse-Marin. Aftewards we walked along the sea where we could and through the town. Opatija has been a tourist destination since the 19th century when the Hapsburgs made it a summer destination resort. The buildings reflect many different styles – Art Deco, Venetian, Baroque, Renaissance. The buildings are well maintained and bright summer colors. Many hotels are perched overlooking the sea.
We popped into a pharmacy to check our blood pressure. European pharmacies ares small and mostly focus on filling prescriptions and selling a few beauty products.
Copenhagen has its Little Mermaid Statue. Opatija has it “Maiden with the Seagull” sculpture. Except this one doesn’t have hordes of Asian tourists taking selfies.
Highlight of the day was having tea at an upscale hotel overlooking the beach.