What do expats find most challenging?

"Expats in Opatija often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture, as Croatian is a Slavic language that can be difficult to learn. Additionally, the pace of life in Opatija is slower than in many Western countries, which can be a difficult adjustment for some expats. The bureaucracy in Croatia can also be challenging, as it can be slow and complicated, particularly for those who are not familiar with the system. Some expats may also struggle with the local customs and social norms, which can be quite different from those in their home countries. Finally, while Croatians are generally friendly and welcoming, it can take time to form close relationships, which can be challenging for expats who are used to a more open and immediate culture of friendship," said another expat in Opatija, Croatia.