So today we are in Croatia, a former part of Yugoslavia, which had had a troubled both recent and past.

We started out tour in a different, but unique way, with a rural tourism host. Basically he takes a small party into his house, offers food ad drink, and you just interact with them as they speak good English.

I don’t know how to pronounce, let alone spell, our hosts name, but his family made us feel most welcome as he described the good and bad parts of his life. The little farm grew a lot of produce, and in particular his mother collects water fowl.

It was harrowing to hear how his Grandfather had built everything by hand, but they only had 15 minutes to evacuate when the country was invaded by Serbia. Fortunately they have managed to return, and since joining the EU have a fair degree of prosperity.

After a short coach ride to Osijek we visited the local 300 year old church, and were entertained by a pianist with a delightful voice.

Yet another coach ride to the old town now, and a wander around the Holy Trinity Square.

Once out of the main square damage from the most recent war was very evident. Yet most people want to put the past behind them, except in Vukovar where atrocities were committed. It will be interesting visiting Serbia tomorrow and hearing their side of the story.

Another interesting morning, time for lunch then afternoon entertainment……a Tamburica band will entertain us soon.