New HRT series explores Croatia through the eyes of an American who has lived here for 15 years

(Photo: Renato Branđolica / HRT)

An American who has called Croatia home for 15 years is taking a closer look at some of the country’s most familiar, and sometimes puzzling, everyday habits in a new television series.

Cody McClain Brown, an American living in Croatia and the author of the popular book Propuh, papuče i punica is the central figure in Robert Knjaz’s new sitcom-style series on Kako preživjeti u Hrvatskoj (How to Survive in Croatia) on HRT.

Cody plays himself in the 12-part series, which examines Croatian life from the perspective of someone who has lived in the country for more than a decade.

The series looks at customs and everyday situations that are often taken for granted by Croatians but can appear unusual to someone from abroad.

Among the topics explored are Croatia’s distinctive coffee culture, the fear of propuh (draughts), giving gifts when visiting someone’s home, soup, football and the often complicated relationship with mothers-in-law.

Each of the 12 episodes focuses on a Croatian habit, tradition or everyday challenge.

Cody attempts to understand why a coffee in Croatia can last for hours, while another episode examines propuh and the strong belief among many Croatians that sitting in a draught can be harmful.

Other episodes tackle more practical aspects of daily life, including buying furniture, finding a reliable tradesperson and navigating the challenge of finding a parking space.

The series also explores social customs, including what is expected when visiting someone’s home and why bringing a gift is often considered almost obligatory.

Football and soup, two subjects with an important place in Croatian everyday life, also receive their own episodes.

(Photo: Renato Branđolica / HRT)

Alongside Cody, we see Lana Barić in the role of his wife, and members of his real-life family also appear in the series. Many situations are inspired by their lives and experiences.

Four episodes are already available on the Croatian Radiotelevision (HRT) free streaming platform HRTi, giving viewers an early look at the series.

The television premiere is scheduled for 28 September, with new episodes airing Mondays at 9pm on HRT1.