Fabiana from Peru comes to study in Croatia – her great-great-grandfather was Croatian
Fabiana Garay, 18, left Peru to study international business in Dubrovnik—drawn by heritage, beauty, and a peaceful lifestyle that appeals to those who choose to study in Croatia as a foreign student.
We’re increasingly witnessing the return of many Croats from around the world to their ancestral homeland. Some come to stay, while others study in the land of their forebears, attracted by the opportunity to study in Croatia as a foreign student.
Interest in Croatia remains especially high in South America, where many countries face economic turmoil and instability. Many young people are eager to study in Croatia as foreign students seeking stability and rich cultural experiences.
Scholarships attracting Croatian descendants
This is confirmed by scholarship programmes offered by the Central State Office for Croats Abroad. These include one-year scholarships to study Croatian in Croatia for descendants of emigrants.
Nearly 90% of these scholarships end up going to Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, and more. Demand is so high that winning a scholarship is seen as akin to winning the lottery.
Some arrive independently
Some descendants come to Croatia independently, supported by their families. University tuition is free at state institutions, while private ones charge fees. Special enrolment quotas are set aside for diaspora students, so they’re not disadvantaged during the application process. For those who study in Croatia, especially as foreign students, these measures provide significant support.
Hearing the impressions of these young returnees is always interesting—how they adjust to life in Croatia, what surprises them, what brings joy, and what they find challenging. Many websites happily share their stories.
Meet Fabiana from Peru
One such story is that of Fabiana Garay. At just 18 years old, she arrived in Croatia from Peru three months ago to study international business at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Dubrovnik—a private university.
In addition to Spanish, she speaks Italian and English, is currently learning Portuguese, and plans to take an intensive Croatian language course starting in September. In an interview with Net.hr, she said she loves travelling and meeting new people—just like most young people her age.
Her Croatian heritage inspired the move
“My great-great-grandfather was Croatian. He fell in love with a Peruvian woman and moved to Peru. That’s one reason I chose Dubrovnik,” Fabiana explained.
“When Mum first suggested Croatia, I knew almost nothing about the country or the language.”
But upon arriving, she realised Croatia had everything she was looking for—beauty, peace, and safety. Another major factor was the widespread use of English in Croatia, and her entire study programme is in English, so language posed no barrier.
Falling in love with Dubrovnik
Fabiana says she fell in love with Dubrovnik, although initially, it was difficult being alone on the other side of the world. She’s amazed that she can visit the beach whenever she wants and enjoy the stunning views surrounding her.
“What fascinates me most is how clean and tidy the city is. When a place is so well maintained, everything looks even more beautiful and special. Croatia is a gorgeous country with so much to offer. I’m grateful to be studying here.”
Croatian hospitality made her feel at home
She especially appreciates the warmth of the Croatian people. “They’re like angels—so hospitable and always ready to help. Thanks to them, everything has been easier. They love talking about their culture, which helps me understand the people and customs better.”
That said, she admits Croatian is very different from the languages she already knows, so it’s not easy to learn—but she’s highly motivated.
Cultural comparisons: Croatia and Peru
Fabiana also noticed cultural similarities and differences. Like Croats, Peruvians love cooking and family gatherings. Coffee is also popular in Peru but consumed differently. “Peruvians are more open at first, whereas Croats become more open once they relax,” she observed.
As for life in Dubrovnik—outside the peak tourist season—she says it suits those seeking a slower, more relaxed pace. She and her friends have a ritual of watching the sunset from the beach, which has become a cherished tradition.
Embracing the coffee culture and cuisine
One Croatian habit she’s grown especially fond of is long coffee sessions. “It’s fascinating! I was never a coffee person, but now I drink it at least twice a day. It’s the perfect way to connect—sitting, chatting, enjoying. That’s now my favourite part of Croatian culture.”
She also enjoys Croatian cuisine. Her favourite dish is pašticada. Before returning to her parents in Lima, the capital of Peru, she’ll stay in Croatia until August and work over the summer. She plans to stay for four years to complete her undergraduate studies in Dubrovnik, embodying the experience of many who come to study in Croatia as foreign students.
A growing trend: South Americans in Croatia
Fabiana’s story is one of many. Encouraged by her mother, she came to study in the land of her ancestors. Increasingly, other young people from South America come not just to study, but to work.
Cities like Dubrovnik and Zagreb are now home to many Croatian descendants from Argentina and Chile, as well as South Americans with no Croatian roots.
Until recently, most South Americans headed to Spain or Italy when moving to Europe. But thanks to Croatia’s improving economy and accessible job opportunities—especially in tourism—Croatia is becoming a more popular destination.
Related story: Push for Croatian returnees to apply for dual citizenship