First impressions

First impressions, they say, are lasting impressions. If that’s true, we’ve found a real gem here on the Croatian island of Brac (pronounced, we know now, Bratch). We are staying in a small complex of properties that most resemble Center Parcs, but don’t let that put you off.

The holiday score for me is now something like Greece 24 Croatia 1 and given that we’ve been here for less than two days, it’s daft to come to clear conclusions. However, here’s what we have seen so far.

• Arriving at Split airport was a doddle. We found our Thomas Cook rep easily and he led us to our minibus which was spotlessly clean. (There’s a developing theme emerging about cleanliness.)
• We arrived for the ferry crossing to Brac with 15 minutes to spare. Everything was laid out clearly. We found nice, comfy, spacious seats.
• Arriving in Brac, our next minibus was ready and waiting. We went, almost immediately, to our complex.
• The complex is wonderful. The staff are wonderfully polite, nothing is too much trouble, it’s – yes, spotlessly clean – and quiet.
• You can drink the water from the tap.
• You don’t have to put soiled toilet paper in a bin next to the toilet. (This is something you have to do in Greece unless you want a blocked shitter and believe me I have been there.)
• We have superb wifi.
• We have a TV with loads of channels including Sky News.
• There is a lovely sunbathing area.
• There is a lovely on-site cafe/restaurant. We ate in last night for the equivalent of £25.
• Did I mention it’s spotless?

We’re a short walk from Supetar itself and its gorgeous harbour. It’s surrounded by lovely looking restaurants. If you go up the backstreets, there are many more restaurants and they are cheaper.

Of course, it could all go horribly wrong. It could be that there are groups of fly-tippers all over the island and wanton gangs of criminals or, even worse, mass murderers just waiting to pounce. And the sheer niceness of the people could be a facade. Somehow, though, I doubt it.

My main problem is the language. I use a word from my phrasebook and someone replies in Croatian. Then, I have to ask them to speak in English. But I am trying. Very trying.

Of course, I still love Greece but this does seem to be a step-up in many ways. And now our children have grown into men, we are able to visit and explore new places every year. Last year, Portugal, and this year Croatia.

And it’s very clean.