According to the Croatian media, Istria is suffering from such a severe drought that water restrictions are imminent. This will seriously affect tourism, practically the only economic activity still viable on the destitute peninsula. Surprise, surprise. It has long been known that climate change will dry up Istria among many other regions around the Mediterranean. And yet, the leading Istrian politicians have continued clamoring for golf development. Ivan Jakovčić, the governor, has promoted more than twenty golf courses in the region in spite of the fact that they are known to require huge quantities of water. Only the global economic crisis has stopped him in his foolishness. This is how Motovun has been saved from no less than two golf courses, as well. Just like the governor, Slobodan Vugrinec, the mayor of Motovun, has been oblivious to expected water shortages. One can only hope that the water restrictions now pending will change their minds. Hope is always the last to die, anyway. And especially from thirst.