Expectations for the new trip
Laura had always dreamed of a vacation in Croatia, drawn by the country’s stunning coastline and the promise of tranquil, naturist beaches.
She had heard nothing but positive things about Novalja, a town known for its scenic beaches and vibrant environment and she was excited to schedule her trip, picturing herself relaxing on a perfect, pristine beach.
Novalja on Pag Island
Laura could feel the lively energy of Novalja as soon as she arrived, especially on Zrce Beach. Quaint cafes, bustling markets, pubs, clubs, and cheerful locals painted a charming picture. But as she made her way to the beaches, her dream began to unravel.
Her first stop was what she had imagined would be a haven of naturist freedom. All she found, though, were crowded, commercialised beaches rather than isolated pockets of sand. Sunbeds, umbrellas, and food stalls were crammed together, and the natural beauty she had envisioned was marred by the sea of umbrellas and the cacophony of nearby vendors.
Disappointed but hopeful, Laura decided to ask around for a true naturalist beach. She expected that there must be a hidden gem somewhere. To her dismay, she discovered that there were very few beaches that embraced the naturist lifestyle. Those that did were often tucked away and difficult to access. The beach she finally found that catered to naturists was far from the picturesque, tranquil setting she had hoped for if she decided stay from 11 am to 5 pm . It was small, cramped, and lacked the serene atmosphere that she had been longing for.
Moreover, the cost of enjoying even these less-than-ideal beaches was steep. Daily rental fees for beach chairs, umbrellas, and refreshments seemed exorbitant. Laura spent more on basic necessities than anticipated, which strained her vacation budget significantly.
As she wandered with her husband through the town, trying to make the most of her time there, the high prices continued to weigh on her. Dining out was expensive, and the cost of local attractions added up quickly. Laura was left disappointed and frustrated after what had been anticipated to be a peaceful vacation turned into an expensive ordeal.
Sunsets, the only free joy left
Despite the beautiful sunsets and the lively atmosphere of Novalja, Laura’s dream of a serene naturist beach holiday remained unfulfilled. The high prices and lack of genuine naturist options overshadowed the town’s charm. Her ideal vacation had become a series of compromises, and she left Novalja with a mix of regret and disappointment.
Laura’s trip served as a warning that even the most alluring places can occasionally fall short of expectations and that careful preparation and a little bit of luck are needed in the search for the ideal beach vacation.
Thanks for reading
Laura Bernardeschi Nelson artworld and travels 