An Important Business Meeting in Shorts Overlooking a Lighthouse

When I moved to Croatia, I promised myself I would never wear a suit and tie again and, apart from weddings, I have stuck to that promise. The biggest test came last year when I had a meeting with the Minister of Tourism for Albania to discuss a contract with the ministry, but I kept true to my promise and had a great meeting.

Wearing suits in the Balkans is an interesting sartorial experience. There are meetings - especially in the summer - where some are suited and booted and others decidedly casual. 

I had a meeting about the future direction of Total Hvar with some business people from the mainland yesterday. I had suggested the Total Hvar Town office of Caffe Sidro, and they had asked if it would be possible to meet at Mustaco in Pokonji Dol, as they had a young child in tow.

Not a problem at all, and I set off through Križna Luka, along the coastal road, finding free parking just before the beach, with its excellent view of the Pokonji Dol lighthouse island. It really is a lovely spot.

"Great to see you," I was greeted. "And I have to say that I have now fulfilled one of my professional dreams. After years in Zagreb, I always wanted to go to an important business meeting in t-shirt and shorts."

"You should do business with the boys at Hula Hula," I replied. "They do business topless."

It was a very productive meeting and decisions have been made about the future direction of Total Hvar - an annoucement will be made once everything is in place in a few weeks.

As for Mustaco, it is a lovely spot - great beach, not too crowded, lovely views. I didn't eat there, but am hearing good things about the food. I will be back.