tip Travel magazine Croatia 005 (English edition) 04-05/2014

ISSN: 1849-059X

Number 5 • Year II • April - May 2014.

INFORMATION • RECOMMENDATIONS • EXPERIENCES

County Šibenik-Knin

Šibenik

Krka National Park - Knin City break

Zaprešić Weekend trip

Events

Croatian Zagorje Zagreb

Novigrad

Cittanova

Vukovar-Srijem County

Other topics:

UNESCO Trogir • Crikvenica • Birdwatching

Peru April / May 2014.

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Travel and tourism magazine ISSN: 1849-059X Publisher: Tip Kreativa Ltd. Jordanovac 119, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia tel: +385 1 2348 488 mob: +385 91 7958 016 info@tiptravelmagazine.com www.tiptravelmagazine.com www.facebook.com/tiptravelmagazine MB: 4055845 EU VAT Number: HR21136573248 Erste&Steiermärkische Bank d.d.

IBAN: HR4524020061100663844 Editor in Chief: Željka Kunštek zeljka@tiptravelmagazine.com

Photo: Robert Kunštek

Graphic Editor: Robert Kunštek robert@tiptravelmagazine.com Associates in this issue: Vlatka Vužić, Sanja Plješa, Sonja Mihajlović, Roman Martin, Andreja Milas, Antonija Perković Prpa, Ivica Jujnović, Anita Šolman Janđel Translator: Marija Crnogaj Marketing: Tip Kreativa Ltd. marketing@tiptravelmagazine.com Photo source: tipTravel magazine archive, archives of Croatian Tourist Boards, fotolia Cover page: Visovac Island, Krka National Park, Croatia photo archive: Krka National Park

Transmission of texts, in full or in part, is only permitted with the written approval of the editor or author. Any type of mechanical, optical, or electronic copying is forbidden. All rights are reserved. Texts and photographs are sent in electronic form. The opinion of the author of the text is not necessarily the opinion of the editor. The editor cannot guarantee the permanence of published information, and is not responsible for the content of advertisements.

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Editorial

Spring energy

I

t is commonly believed that spring is the ideal season to travel. Although each season of the year has its charms, spring offers a special force, zest, and energy. Both to people and destinations. So, pack your bags and head out somewhere in good company.

Anywhere. Since the energy of spring has already caught Croatian destinations like an epidemic, we bring you many ideas for spring trips through Croatia in this issue.

In the towns of Primorje, the sun has already warmed the terraces of restaurants and bars, tourists are occupying the narrow stone streets and attractions in ever-growing numbers, and various events are taking place. Šibenik, which we bring to you on over 28 pages, will greet you with such an atmosphere, together with the Krka National Park.

Duck into the stone capsule of "Krešimir's City", explore the mystical landscapes of the Krka, and visit the Knin fortress... this spring. We're taking you to Novigrad in Istria for a weekend getaway, a picturesque town that has everything you need for a great vacation. Stop

by Crikvenica, which will have many different events this spring.

The interior is not lagging far behind the coastal region. There are more and more visitors on the Slavonian plateaus, as well as amongst the green hills of Zagorje.

Here you can also visit many aromatic, entertaining, and delicious festivals.

The Zagreb Time Machine, which takes the Croatian metropolis back in time is starting in Zagreb, and there are many attractions to explore in Zagreb's surroundings. This time, head on over to Zaprešić.

We also present some Croatian clubs and travel unions, whose members are passionate travel aficionados. Why don't you join them on one of their trips around the world? We're also taking you to Peru as our foreign destination, to follow in the path of the Ancient Incas. In this issue, once again we will be taking the most creative of you to concerts and shows throughout Croatia.

Have a great spring and travel... Željka Kunštek

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Content

04-05/2014

The importance and quality of tipTravel magazine in the online promotion of Croatian tourism has been recognized and recommended to readers, tourists, by:

ASSOCIATION OF EMPLOYERS IN CROATIAN HOSPITALITY

10-37

54-59

40-45

74-81

8-9 CROATIAN NEWS

Croatian Camping Union

10-37 BLUE CROATIA - Šibenik Knin County: Discover a region of hidden charms 38-39 TIPS4YOU

If you like the magazine, feel free to Like it on Facebook... :-) Thanks!

SIGN UP Click the 'sign up' button and sign up for our newsletter :) 4

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40-45 WEEKEND TRIP Novigrad - Cittanova: A fishing village made for a vacation 46-50 INTERVIEW Tihomir Nikolaš, president of the CCU and Member of the Board of Riviera Adria d.d.

Croatia's camping advantages are beautiful beaches and preserved nature

54-59 CITY BREAK - Zaprešić: A city of castles, nobility, and active vacations 60-73 EVENTS ... Zagreb's Time Machine ... The tastes and scents of Zagorje in the spring 74-81 EXPLORE CROATIA The Vukovar-Srijem County: A combination of fantastic experiences

the option to show photographs in fullscreen view is available to users of the application on iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch devices.

Environmentally Friendly

not a single tree has been destroyed in publishing this magazine

90-93

106-107

124-125

94-95

112-113

130-139

82-83 EVENTS - Vinkovci: Roman Days 84-87 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Spring on the Crikvenica Rivera 90-93 TOURISM PRODUCT Birdwatching: Vacation in bird paradise 94-95 UNESCO - Trogir 96-99 HEALTH TOURISM Discover the benefits of saunas 100-101 CROATIA ONLINE

102 CROATIA THROUGH PHILATELY Lighthouses: Pločica

118-121 CULTURAL SCENE Croatian MusicalCultural Treat

106-107 GOURMET CROATIA Samobor: Guardian of gourmet experiences

122-123 PRESENTING Croatia Travel Club Travel aficionados

108-111 TRAVEL WRITERS Boris Veličan: "I love deserts, sleeping on sand is my Hilton"

124-125 UNICEF

112-113 SEND AND... WIN 114-116 Travel is knowledge Learning through travelling

126-127 WORLD NEWS 130-139 WE'RE TAKING YOU TO... Peru: Following in the footsteps on the Incas in a mystical land

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MAP OF CROATIA

Destinations in this issue

Scale 1 : 1 000 000

Krapina-Zagorje County ZAPREŠIĆ NOVIGRAD CITTANOVA

Zagreb

Vukovar-Srijem County

Crikvenica

Legend:

Veli rat

KNIN

KRKA NATIONAL PARK ŠIBENIK Trogir

Pločica

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highway with junction motorway with junction main road (regional and local roads are not included)

INFO

General information on Croatia  Geographic position

Croatia extends from the furthest eastern edges of the Alps in the northwest to the Pannonian lowlands and the banks of the Danube in the east. Its central part is covered by the Dinara mountain range, and southern ends at the coast of the Adriatic Sea.

 Highest peak

 Power supply

 Climate:

 Drinking water

 Surface area

The mainland covers an area of 56.594 km² and coastal waters cover a surface area of 31.479 km².

 Population

Croatia has 4,29 million inhabitants (2011.).

 Demographics

The majority of the population are Croats (90,42%), with the largest minorities being Serbs, Bosnians, Slovenes, Hungarians, Czechs, Italians and Albanians.

 System of government

Croatia is a multi-party parliamentary republic.

 Capital

With 792.875 inhabitants, Zagreb is the economic, transport, cultural and academic centre of the country.

 Length of the coastline

6.278 km, of which 4.398 km is made up of island coastlines, solitary rocks and reefs.

 Number of islands, islets, solitary rocks and reefs

1.244. The largest islands are Krk and Cres. There are 50 inhabited islands.

Dinara, 1.831 m above sea level.

There are three climate zones in Croatia: in the country's continental interior the prevailing climate zone is moderately continental, while the mountain climate prevails at 1200m above the sea level. The areas along the Adriatic coast have a pleasantly mild Mediterranean climate with a large number of sunny days, summers are hot and dry and winters are mild and wet.

The average temperatures in the continental interior are: January -2°C to 0°C, with somewhat lower temperatures in the mountains; July temperatures reach 20°C to 22˚C, and around 13˚C in the highlands.

The average temperatures in the Littoral (Adriatic Coast) are: January 5°C to 9°C and July 23°C to 26°C. Winter sea temperature is about 12°C and it reaches approximately 25°C in the summer.

 Currency:

The official currency in Croatia is the kuna.

Exchange rate (7,5 kunas ≈ 1 euro). Foreign currency can be exchanged in banks, exchange offices, post offices and in the majority of tourist information offices, hotels and campsites.

Credit cards (Eurocard / Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Diners) are accepted in almost all hotels, marinas, restaurants, shops and cash machines.

 Number 112

Power supply: 220 V; frequency: 50 Hz

Tap water is safe to drink in all of Croatia.

 Travel documents

Since 1 April 2013, the visa system of the Republic of Croatia has been fully harmonized with the visa policy of the European Union. In 2013 all foreign nationals, who are holders of valid Schengen documents, are not required to have additional (Croatian) visa to enter Croatia and a enjoy short stay. More information: www.mvep.hr/en/

 Public holidays

1 January - New Year's Day 6 January - Epiphany Easter Sunday & Easter Monday 1 May - Labour Day Corpus Christi 22 June - Anti-Fascist Resistance Day 25 June - Statehood Day 5 August - Victory Day and National Thanksgiving Day 15 August - Assumption Day 8 October - Independence Day 1 November - All Saints' Day 25-26 December - Christmas Holidays

 Shops and public services working hours

During the tourist season, most shops are open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. on weekdays, and many are also open during the weekend. Public services and business offices generally work from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.

If you notice a natural, technical or technological threat or an accident which might threaten the life or well being of people, property or environment Dial 112, free of charge, 24 hours a day, from every telephone in the Republic of Croatia.

By dialling 112 you can reach emergency medical services, fire department, police department, mountain rescue, coastguard recsue, the help of other emergency services and protection and rescue operation forces.

When dialling 112 it is possible to communicate in: English, German, Italian, Hungarian, Slovakian and Check.

 Important telephone numbers

International country code for Croatia: +385; Information on international numbers: 11802; Weather forecast and road conditions: 060 520 520 (automated service); Road traffic information: 062 777 777; Road rescue: 1987 (If you are calling from abroad or from a mobile phone dial +385 1 1987).

 Speed Limits

Within settled areas 50 km/h; outside settled areas 90 km/h; on major roads designed exclusively for motor vehicles and on highways 110 km/h; on motorways 130 km/h; for motor vehicles with a trailer without brakes 80 km/h.

Driving with dipped headlights is obligatory during winter time.

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News

CROATIA

Croatian catalog for the Guinness Book of World Records

Photo: Ministry of Tourism of Republic of Croatia

Photo: Vedran Tolić (archive of LUX promocija)

The book "Irresistible Croatia" ("Neodoljiva Hrvatska"), the largest catalog in the world, nominated for the Guinness Book of World Records, was presented in Zagreb in mid-February. The impressive catalog measures 1398 mm wide and 1650 mm high, weighs 70 kg, and over its 378 pages and 900 square meters of paper it describes all the most important values of Croatia, from its identity and economy to special forms of tourism. Its content represents an entirely new, modern chapter in the promotion of Croatia as an attractive travel destination, but also as a country interesting for business investments. The author and project manager, Sunčana Matić, presented the attractive catalog as a 100% Croatian product, and announced the presentation of the project throughout Croatia, with a walk through the museums of Croatian Zagorje. The development of the project took about three years, with a total team of fifty professional writers, associations, professional photographers and designers.

Diffused and Integrated Hotels On March 11, 2014, Croatian Minister of Tourism, Darko Lorencin presented a new and innovative tourism product for accommodation offers, diffused and integrated hotels, whose creation was permitted by changes and amendments to the Regulations on Categorizing Hotel Buildings, prepared by the Ministry of Tourism.

The goal is, as he emphasized, creating new and innovative tourist products in destinations, developing and improving the quality of offered accommodations, joint approach to the market and professionalization of private accommodations. The changes and amendments to the Regulations increased the number of hotel types from six to eight, that is, alongside the existing heritage hotel, hotel, aparthotel, tourist resort, tourist apartments, and bed and breakfasts, diffused and integrated hotels have been added.

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A View into the Blue

Poreč received recognition for rebranding the destination

As part of the f.re.e leisure and travel fair, held from February 19 to 23, 2014 in Munich, Croatia, as the partner country, presented the "A View into the Blue" project.

The goal of the project was to promote Croatian diving, diving centers, and the professionalism of Croatian divers, and the best way to do that was to dive into the blue. So, by diving into a pool, with training and guides, visitors to the fair had the opportunity to have a unique diving experience.

The strategy of the project, for which this presentation marked the beginning of this year's tour, is to collect donations for, amongst other things, repairing the Zagreb Cathedral and for the promotion of diving in Croatia. The tour will last three to four months, and include 30 Croatian cities, as well as visiting four EU countries.

The new visual identity of the city of Poreč has positioned it amongst the most effective brand transformations in the world last year, so it has found itself in the company of Fiji Airways, Hyatt Hotels, and the National Bank of Kenya. The competition for the visual identity of the Poreč Tourist Board ended in December 2012 with the selection of Sonda's You Complete Us project, after which its implementation slowly started, which will soon culminate in the publication of a destination brochure with the new image. REBRAND is the leading global source in the business of brand innovation, and according to the look and behavior of a brand "before" and "after" the transformation, they choose the communication strategy that achieved the best emotional reach and satisfied the strategic goal of the brand, while taking current circumstances into consideration.

Opatija celebrates 170 years of tourism

Photo: Luka Šmalcelj

Photo: archive of Opatija Tourist Board / PHOTOnet

The City of Opatija, in the Kvarner Bay, is marking 170 years of tourism, and it will celebrate that great anniversary all year long, as announced at a press conference on March 13, 2014.

The central event will be a thematically designed three-day event, from July 19 to 21, which through musical-performance events, will tell the story of the past of Opatija's tourism. The special guest and promoter of the celebration and Opatija is famous Croatian musician Zlatan Stipišić Gibonni, who will end his European tour, after eight cities in Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands, in Opatija, with a concert on the summer stage on August 30. At the central event in July, American band Kool & the Gang will perform, while from June to August, amongst others, 2Cellos, world-famous ballet stars, Israeli singer Achinoam Nini (Noa), the New York Voices quartet, and many other artists, will perform.

Komiža fishing boat (Komiška falkuša) to lead the fleet in Oslo Komiža's falkuša fishing boat will, with two Viking drakkar boats, lead a fleet of 300 historical boats in the main ceremony marking the 200th anniversary of the Kingdom of Norway in late July of this year in Oslo. This was announced on March 20, 2014 by the Head Office of the Croatian National Tourist Board, which, together with the Ministry of Tourism, join in on this project. Komiža's falkuša was chosen as the most attractive historical boat in the world, and after the celebration, it has been invited to tour the Norwegian fjords, together with selected historical boats to the city of Risor, where it will participate in the International Risor Wooden Boat Festival.

Photo: Robert Kunštek

Photo: Roman Martin (www.photoandtours.com)

Treaty of collaboration for the development of sustainable tourism On March 20, 2014, representatives of the Lonjsko polje Nature Park signed a treaty of collaboration for the development of sustainable tourism in the park, connected to the nomination for the European Certificate for sustainable tourism, which was officially delivered to the EUROPARC federation for evaluation in early March. If the park receives the certificate, it will be able to follow the path of sustainable tourism supported by the EU. In order to prepare for receiving the certificate as well as possible, a Forum for Sustainable Tourism was established as the continuation of the long-term cooperation of the Public institute with the local population and users: local smallsized entrepreneurs that conduct business within and nearby the park.

Foreign lecturers on tourism for special interests From March 28 to April 8, 2014, four free workshops on "Sustainable Development of special interest tourism" will be held in Konavle as a part of the IPA project of crossborder cooperation between Croatia and Montenegro, organized by the Association of Croatian Travel Agencies (UHPA). Lectures on cyclotourism, gourmet tourism, watching botanical and animal life, and hiking&trekking will be held by experienced experts of these special forms of tourism from Spain, the Netherlands, Scotland, and England: José María de Juan Alonso, Peter Butterworth, Jack Delf and Saskia Griep.

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Blue Croatia

ŠIBENIK-KNIN COUNTY

Photo: the St. James Cathedral in Šibenik.

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COUNTY

ŠIBENIK-KNIN ŠIBENIK, KRKA NATIONAL PARK, KNIN

CROATIA

Discover a region of hidden charms Written by: Željka Kunštek Photos: Šibenik-Knin County Tourist Board, Šibenik Tourist Board (Ivo Pervan, Ivo Fabijanić), Krka National Park, Robert Kunštek, NCP - www.charter.ncp.hr (Ivo Pervan), Knin Tourist Board

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Blue Croatia

Ĺ IBENIK-KNIN COUNTY

One UNESCO World Heritage Site, two national parks, eleven medieval fortresses, 230 cultural sites, around 300 islands, islets, skerries, and reefs, a total of 600 archeological sites, and countless experiences...

Photo: Ivo Pervan, archive: NCP (www.charter.ncp.hr)

We could keep going on forever when talking about the Ĺ ibenik-Knin County, a region that magically intertwines blue and green, past and present...

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Photo: Skradinski buk, the most popular waterfall in Krka National Park.

Photo: tourists love touring Ĺ ibenik's old city center.

B

y chance, but also due to circumstances, we spent our last summer holiday in the Ĺ ibenik-Knin County. Since laying on the beach never was on our list of priorities, but instead we belong to the group of tourists whose adrenaline grows when they immerse themselves in a destination and start discovering something new, first we decided to sail away and explore part of the waters, and then duck into its interior and feel the pulse of the area. Since we wrote about the sailing experiences we had in this region in one of our previous numbers, this time, we will reveal some of the attractions that delighted us and interesting facts we found out and came across while exploring the "green" part of this county. We believe we will also give you great ideas and solve dilemmas you may have next time you "catch" a few free days, sit in front of a map or Google, and ask yourself - where to next?

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Blue Croatia

ŠIBENIK

In a city of hidden secrets Photos: a view of the old city center of Šibenik, the fortress of St. Mihovil, and St. James' Cathedral (top); a birdseye view of the cathedral (bottom).

There are six reasons "Juraj's Cathedral" is unique. We will only mention some: It is the only cathedral in Europe build exclusively of stone (without plaster and wooden construction); it is the first pre-fabricated building in Europe built on the tongue and groove principle; the shape of the external volume is the same as the interior; for the first time in European architecture, geometric perspective was depicted in relief,... and find out the rest on your own.

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L

ogically, we started exploring from "Krešimir's city", as the local's call it, or the "City of Hidden Secrets", as tourists like to call it after they have explored it. We would also agree with the latter because Šibenik, which has remained a little mysterious in comparison to other tourist hubs in Dalmatia, truly pleasantly surprised us.

Besides being the regional center, Šibenik is also one of the oldest Croatian cities on the Adriatic coast, and one of the largest and best preserved medieval cities.

In order to convince ourselves these statements, which we read in a guide,

were true, we ducked into the stone capsule of this city.

Perhaps it was a bit stereotypical, but we, as most tourists, started our tour from the main symbol, and, with full right, the pride of the people of Šibenik - the St. James Cathedral, a cultural and historical pearl under UNESCO's protection.

Although over the course of the 105 years of its construction, the builders changed, it was designed by Juraj Dalmatinac, the greatest European artist and builder in the 15th century, and it was he who defined its shape. Because of that, the people of Šibenik often call it "Juraj's

Cathedral". This artist was most respected for, at the time, having the courage to construct architectural, artistic, and engineering solutions that had not been seen ever before, and interestingly enough, ever since by anyone after him.

Duck into the streets Although it is special for many things, don't let your exploration of Šibenik's old center end at the cathedral because Šibenik has a lot left to offer. We decided to head off the beaten tourist path on the square in front of cathedral, and let ourselves follow the vibe of the city streets. If you turn left down Juraj Dalmatinac Street, also the oldest street in the city, you will reach the square

with four wells. It used to be the city's public cistern that the people of Šibenik built in the middle ages due to the large number of military sieges and long

tip: While at the cathedral, install AR on your mobile phone or tablet, and take a virtual 3D tour with Juraj Dalmatinac.

Photos: details of St. James' cathedral (bottom left); Holy Mass in the cathedral (bottom right).

You can take virtual tours through Šibenik at three locations: at the St. James cathedral and UNESCO's plaque of cultural heritage, as well as at Juraj Dalmatinac's statue. All you need to do is install AR (augmented reality) on your mobile phone or tablet and point the camera towards the AR location.

At that moment, a virtual 3D Juraj Dalmatinac will show up on your screen and give you a lot of interesting information.

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Blue Croatia

ŠIBENIK

Photos: Trg Republike Hrvatske is the main city square, and it is surrounded by representative examples of Šibenik's architecture (top); the cathedral is also unique for the 72 stone portraits of regular people, who lived at the time of Juraj Dalmatinac (bottom left); St. Mihovil is the patron saint of the city (bottom right).

facebook: Koke-doo Stube Petra Kaera 2 22000 Šibenik, Croatia tel: +385 22 212982 mob: +385 91 1576435 kokealeks@yahoo.com www.kokedesign.com

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Koke Ltd., creation of unique clothing and bags

near the cathedral

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periods of drought. Today it is a city stage, where various events are held, and where, amongst other things, you can enjoy Šibenik's gourmet story in nearby restaurants. Juraj Dalmatinac's birth house is also in this street, which you will recognize by the bear head gate.

On the right of the cathedral is the main city square, Trg Republike Hrvatske, which is flanked by the most representative examples of Šibenik's architecture: St. James' cathedral, the Renaissance City Hall, Mala lođa, the Rector's and Bishop's palace, and many other stone palaces. As the hub of daily life, the square was home to the first coffee shop in Šibenik in 1764.

However, the story of Šibenik can also be told by its many churches, and we managed to count about 20 in the old town, amongst which there are several monasteries. You will also come across medieval squares where time stopped long ago, and the labyrinth of narrow stone streets will take you to Gothic palaces, often with ornate gates, and if you peek into the courtyards, you will see wells. Most of these houses and palaces were built in the "golden era" of the city (from the mid-15th to the mid-17th century), when the people of Šibenik made a lot of money trading salt and wine, and thanks to sailing and the revenues from the mills on the Krka river.

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Blue Croatia

ŠIBENIK Musical delights at the bottom of the well Does it sound impossible to sit at the bottom of a well and drink your favorite drink while listening to the sounds of good music? In Šibenik, it's possible! The "Azimut" club is located in the well from the 15th century, which was used as the main city water reservoir, and above which today stands the square with the four wells. This interesting combination of urban space and alternative scene is a novelty in Šibenik's offer. "The idea was to make the space look like a city square, a courtyard, bring together the old and the new and give old things a new life", explains Đorđe Katalenić, one of the co-owners of this interesting club. The club is full of quirky details, so, for example, visitors sit on old, but refurbished chairs, old cable spools are used as tables, and bent forks and spoons are coat hangers. Throughout the year, various musical programs are held in this protected cultural monument three times a week - from performances by young bands to DJ nights with special programs.

And admission to all events is free :-)

Photo: Ivo Pervan, archive: NCP (www.charter.ncp.hr)

Photos: the "Azimut" club is located in a 15th century well (top left); the Baroque bell tower of the Uspenie Bogomatere Church (top middle); the Church of St. Ivan (top right); narrow streets of Šibenik with stairs (bottom left); music of Šibenik (bottom middle); the Church of All Saints above City Hall (bottom right).

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A cave in the center of the city If you are fans of photography, as we are, arm yourself with a good camera and plan more time for a tour of the city. Ĺ ibenik is truly photogenic and full of interesting details, sometimes completely unexpectedly. For example, while cruising through its streets, we came across the small cave of Our Lady of Lourdes, which is located next to the Franciscan monastery and St. Lovro's

church. It would be hard to remember which path we took to get there, but you won't miss it thanks to the signs.

Once here, definitely stop by the Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden, the only of its kind in Croatia, and one of the rare in this part of Europe. It is interesting for its typical medieval garden layout with crossing paths, a small well in the center, and scented heirloom roses, and various medicinal and edible herbs that grow here under the warm Ĺ ibenik sun.

tip: Take a break from touring in the Monastery garden. Relax in its scented tour and seek refreshment at the garden restaurant.

Photos: the cave of Our Lady of Lourdes (top left); entry into the church of St. Lovro (top middle); the Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden (top right, bottom left and right).

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Blue Croatia

ŠIBENIK

Photos: Sister Fortunata at the entrance to the Benedictine Convent of St. Luce (top left); painted wood cross (top right); sculpture of Holy Mother with child (bottom).

tip: At the St. Krševan gallery, visit the "International Heritage Experience" photo exhibition, open until April 16, 2014.

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Empress Sissi's Šibenik sanctuary After our garden break, we continue on towards the St. Luce Benedictine convent, where Sister Fortunata happily greets us at the gate. She showed us the collection of sacral items, paintings, and sculptures that the sisters carefully collected over the years, and told us that Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I stayed here in 1875. During his meeting with the city heads, Empress Sissi spent several hours talking to the sisters in this convent and revealed to them how unhappy she was.

In one part of the collection, you will see the set used to serve spirits with the glass that Emperor Franz Joseph I used, various glass artefacts, watches, handiwork by the sisters, Singer

Šibenik was home to many famous artists, scientists, diplomats, and athletes.

Famous citizens of Šibenik, amongst others were Dražen Petrović, the best European basketball player of all time; sculptor Ivan Meštrović; constructer of first Croatian hydro power plant, and the first production and use of alternating current in the world Ante Šupuk; and Faust Vrančić, inventor of the first usable parachute.

tip: From May 29 to June 1, 2014, visit the food festival "Flavors of the Mediterranean" in Šibenik.

Caffe bar Moderato Cantabile Stjepana Radića 1, 22000 Šibenik, Croatia, tel: +385 22 212036 e-mail: cantabile-torte@hotmail.com machines, etc., while the other part of the building is used to display sacral artefacts used for liturgical purposes. The sisters will gladly show you old school logs and manuscripts on the establishment of the convent from the 17th century. Amongst the exhibits is a painted wood cross from the 14th/15th century, and a unique 13th century Romanesque terracotta sculpture which shows the Holy Mother with her child, wearing an old-style women's hat from Šibenik.

Clock with double row of numbers We could stay in the company of Sister Fortunata and the convent full of interesting stories, but the streets kept calling us. We made it to St. Krševan's Church, the oldest in the city, which now

Photos: the Rector's palace is located on the coast in the old city center (top); they still prepare delicious dishes in Šibenik, according to old recipes (bottom left).

tip: Enjoy excellent desserts and coffee in the pleasant ambiance of the "Moderato Cantabile" café.

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ŠIBENIK

Photo: Ivo Pervan, archive: NCP (www.charter.ncp.hr)

Blue Croatia

tip: The Croatian Travel Festival will be held for the third time in Šibenik from May 15 to 18, 2014.

Don't miss it!

Photos: the St. Nikola fortress is one of the strongest fortresses on the Croatian coast of the Adriatic, and it is located on the entrance to the St. Ante channel (top left); St. Barbara's church with the old clock and the double row of numbers (right); panoramic view of Šibenik and the St. Mihovil fortress (bottom left).

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houses a gallery, and to the Museum of the City of Šibenik which found its home in the former Rector's Palace.

Nearby is the Gothic Church of St. Barbara, interesting for its round old clock with a double row of numbers on its façade. The church currently houses a museum with many examples of paintings, sculptures and crafts from Šibenik. Replicas of old boats that sailors gave to churches as votive offerings for happy returns from distant voyages will also catch you eye. The people of Šibenik are also proud of their theater, the city Aquarium, as well as the fortresses, and the one named after St. Mihovil, which towers over the city at 70 meters high, will be renewed by mid-June 2014.

Besides being completely renovated by then, a large summer stage should be opened within the fortress, which the people of Šibenik can't wait to see.

Over the past few years, Šibenik has developed more and more as a city of festivals. Currently there are 17, and some of the most popular are the International Children's Festival, Supertoon (animated film festival), Šibenik Medieval Fair, OFF Jazz & Blues festival, and the Šibenik dance festival.

PROMO

Solaris Beach Resort -

Great Resort for a Great Vacation

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iverse, unique, well-equipped, attractive, unforgettable... and we could truly keep going on when describing the Solaris Beach Resort, a tourist resort located in Ĺ ibenik, with a four-kilometer-long coast and "anchored" in green Mediterranean vegetation. Here you will also find thematic hotels and irresistible beaches, many different things to do, restaurants to suit the finest palates, and beach clubs and bars that have become a synonym for unforgettable parties.

Dalmatian ethno story

Supreme comfort

A special attraction and a trademark of the Solaris Beach Resort is the Dalmatian Ethno Village, whose stone houses tell

Along with the villas, apartment suites, and the spacious camp, the resort also has five thematic hotels, where the one that attracts most of the guests' attention is the new, luxuriously furnished designer "Solaris Hotel Ivan". You will experience supreme comfort at every step: from the modernly furnished hotel rooms, the attractive Lobby and Wine bar to the restaurant with a spacious terrace and newly renovated Wellness & Spa Mediterranean garden. Hammam, an

Oriental bathing ritual, treatments for two, aromatherapy and massage, and the world of saunas and pools with underwater massage are just a part of the offer that will totally revitalize you and pamper you. The Hotel Andrija, also the thematic children's hotel, the first of its kind in Croatia, offers another story, playful and creative, and especially attractive for the youngest guests.

the story of ancient tradition and the former lifestyle of Dalmatian villages with its many traditional specialties, made according to the authentic and original recipes. After enjoying the gourmet experience, rest on one of the five thematic beaches, where this year, the main one, Sand Beach, was awarded the title of "Beach of the Year" and "Best Resort Beach on the Adriatic"! Make sure you see why...

Take a walk to the Solaris Aquapark and immerse yourself in the exciting world of water fun, which is equally enjoyed by kids, teens, but also adults. Great fun is guaranteed here. ď ś

Solaris Beach Resort, Hoteli Solaris 86, 22000 Ĺ ibenik, Croatia, tel: +385 22 361001, e-mail: info@solaris.hr, www.solaris.hr April / May 2014.

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Blue Croatia

ŠIBENIK

Photos: the waters of Šibenik are home to many islands, islets, skerries, and reefs (top left and middle); Šibenik is a favorite nautical destination (top and bottom right).

Sailing advantages Every year, many sailors impatiently wait to sail through the waters of Šibenik again, and take their sailboats, yachts, and other vessels to the hidden coves of its 200 islands. One of the favorite nautical routes, 26 miles long, is the one that connects two national parks:

Did you know that Šibenik... ... has the most antique organs in Croatia? ... was one of the first cities in the world to get public electrical lighting? ... is a city of music and song, a city with a rich tradition of a cappella singing? ... was named the first Croatian cultural city? ... is the only Croatian city surrounded by four fortresses?

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Kornati and Krka. It stretches down the Kornati archipelago and passes next to three interesting islands: Žirje, the only permanently inhabited offshore island of the Šibenik islands, followed by Kaprije, and island that got its name from the Mediterranean caper plant, whose buds are used as a seasoning, and Zlarin, the island of corals. The route continues on through the St. Ante channel, passes by Šibenik, and through the Prukljansko Lake to Skradin and Skradinski buk, the largest and one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Krka River. In the evening hours, fans of the sea, sails, and waves, dock at one of the 12 top-notch marinas in the county, which, along with the beautiful coast and islands, are the main advantages of sailing near Šibenik. 

PROMO

A different sailing experience

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hanks to one of the most beautiful and diverse coasts, with more than 1244 islands, Croatia is one of the top nautical destinations in the world, while Šibenik, as a city in the center of the Adriatic Sea, is an ideal starting point for travelling to, for example, Vis, Hvar, Korčula, and Dubrovnik in the south, as well as to Istria or Brijuni in the northern Adriatic.

So it is no wonder that NCP & mare, as the leading Croatian charter fleet, set up headquarters here, only eight kilometers from the A1 highway and 50 kilometers from the international airports in Split and Zadar. It is also in the vicinity of the Krka and Kornati National Parks, which are especially attractive for sailors.

Their fleet includes 55 motorboats, sailboats, and catamarans, something for everyone, which can be rented with or without a crew. The fleet includes luxurious Yaretti, Fairline, and Sea Ray yachts, as well as more economical Beneteau and Adria boats. Fans of challenging sailing will be awaited be Grand Soleil sailboats, while for those who favor a smoother family sailing trip,

the ideal boats are Beneteau, Jeanneau, Dufour, Elan, and Hanse, or the incredibly spacious Lagoon catamaran.

Support 24/7 In order to make vacation for sailors as safe and comfortable as possible, NCP & mare has introduced an online reservation system, which ensures the timely reservation of the desired boat.

Also, it secures payment and deposits and a free berth in the Mandalina marina.

During the preseason and postseason, courses are given at a 50 percent discount

so that sailors can get to know the yachts and navigation routes and be as carefree as possible while on vacation. An incredibly important piece of information is that this team offers technical support 24/7 on land and sea.

As a result of all those facts, it is no wonder that the NCP & mare company was awarded the title of the Best Business Yacht Charter Company for Europe in 2008 by Business Destinations magazine.

RYA training center NCP & mare also has a long tradition in the organization of various sea events: corporate regattas, team building and incentives, as well as various tailor made programs. The company also houses a sailing club and sailing school, and the company is a certified RYA (Royal Yachting Association) training center, so that sailors, and those who wish to become sailors are offered the most prestigious globally certified courses in collaboration with the RYA. So, Šibenik was also added to the prestigious list of RYA training centers in the world. 

NCP & mare, Obala Jerka Šižgorića 1 (Marina Mandalina), 22000 Šibenik, Croatia, tel: +385 22 312999, fax: +385 22 312988, mob: +385 98 336580, e-mail: ncp@ncp.hr, www.charter.ncp.hr April / May 2014.

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Hotel Olympia Four stars in the heart of the Adriatic

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egardless of whether you're interested in an active vacation filled with sports activities, relaxing, spas, and beach parties, or whether you're looking for a place to play host to your business partners, Hotel Olympia offers everything you need. Our more than forty years of successful business definitely give a quality guarantee, while the completely renovated and modernly equipped space and abundant content make your stay here a truly special experience.

Whatever time of year you come, you

will be awaited by outdoor pools, exclusive beach bars, the Olympia Life spa, a modern gym, conference and sports facilities, rooms and suites with a view of the sea and pine forest, as well as a superb offer of food. And much more.

At the Olympia restaurant, enjoy the different scents and flavors of traditional Dalmatian cuisine, but also continental specialties. Pamper your taste buds with international and traditional cuisine, some cold and hot appetizers and main courses from the splendid buffet.

Olympia Vodice d.d., Ljudevita Gaja 6, 22211 Vodice, Croatia, tel: +385 22 452452, 26

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PROMO

After a long and cold winter, the return of swallows represents the awakening of life. Did you know that swallows are the couriers of good news, the messengers of happiness, eternal love, and reconciliation? When they find their life partner, their love lasts forever, and once they build a nest, these happy birds always come back and manage to find it. They say they bring happiness, love, and prosperity to their nesting place. Many swallows have found their home beneath the roof of the Olympia Hotel, and return as loyal guests every year.

Olive harvesting and oil pressing

The benefits of olives in Olympia Life Wellness Center

Olives are one of the oldest ingredients, and since ancient times, the olive tree has provided food, been used for heating and construction, while the fruit was used in healing many ailments.

Besides that, the olive has also become the symbol of peace and wisdom.

This tree has also always been a symbol of Dalmatia so it is no wonder that over the past six years, the Olympia hotel has decided to surround itself with more than a thousand of these miraculous trees. Ever since they were planted, they piqued the interest of the guests, so in the post-season, when harvest time starts, guests can try to harvest olives and make olive oil. Interesting, isn't it?

The healing powers of olive oil have been known for centuries, and a lot has already been written and said about them. This oil is an integral part of Mediterranean cuisine, which is considered to be the healthiest form of nutrition, and Dalmatian cuisine is based on it. It was established long ago that people from coastal regions, who use olive oil on a daily basis, live long and healthy lives.

This oil also has many positive effects on skin beauty. Olive oil contains vitamins A and E, polyphenols and oleuropein, very effective antioxidants that protect the skin from aging and help remove wrinkles.

Women back in the Roman times, who nourished their skin with olive oil and

considered it the fountain of youth, knew this very well. Because of that, we can conclude that olive oil is truly a magical ingredient, both nutritionally, as well as in cosmetics for various hair, skin, hand, and nail treatments. With that in mind, the staff of the Olympia Hotel have decided to completely pamper their guests in the Olympia Life Wellness Center. There you can find many olive oil treatments such as, for example, a stress relieving massage with warm olive oil that will relax a stiff back, chest, face, and scalp. Especially attractive is the Olympia Life massage with a peel that starts with an olive pit peel, and continues with a relaxing massage with warm olive oil.

Treat yourself to good health, rest, and relaxation in the Olympia Hotel in Vodice! ď ś

fax: +385 22 452420, e-mail: recepcija@olympiavodice.hr, www.olympiavodice.hr April / May 2014.

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Photo: Ivo Pervan, archive: NCP (www.charter.ncp.hr)

KRKA NATIONAL PARK Photo: Ivo Pervan, archive: NCP (www.charter.ncp.hr)

Blue Croatia

Photos: the Krka River flows into the sea near Šibenik (top left); a view of Skradin (top right); Skradin is a favorite nautical and gourmet destination (bottom).

The hidden attraction of the Krka headwaters tip: When in Skradin, enjoy the gourmet delights, and definitely try one of the peka dishes, and satisfy your sweet tooth with Skradin cake.

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e continue our trip from Šibenik to Skradin, a picturesque Dalmatian town, which is more than six thousand years old. It is located at the gate to the Krka National Park, where salty sea and fresh river water mix, or as romantics would say, where the river kisses the sea... Take a walk through the old city streets and vaults, duck into passageways, climb up stairs, have a look at the Venetian-style houses, and

head over to a tavern or restaurant of this gourmet town. Skradin has become a synonym for superb gourmet experiences, and some of the traditional specialties worth trying are Skradin cake, dried lamb, koprtlje (pieces of prosciutto and bacon wrapped in lamb offal), ćokalice (small fish), and dishes from the peka (a metal dish placed under hot coals), mostly veal and lamb. Skradin risotto is a story of its own. It is cooked for eight, sometimes for up to 11 hours,

and according to tradition, it is prepared exclusively by men. Jujube or walnut spirits, rose petal liqueur, superb wines and olive oil... there is a lot that should be tasted at the abundant Skradin table.

Sailors know that well, and Skradin is one of their favorite escapes in the region, for its great food, but also for its excellent and well-positioned marina, which is open year-round. It is especially a favorite for owners of wooden boats who love stay here during the winter due to the unique combination of sea and fresh water.

Street lights before Vienna and London Although it is most famous for Skradinski buk, which is said to be the most beautiful of the seven waterfalls of the Krka river (which flows into the sea

near Ĺ ibenik), and which will pop out at you in all the travel brochures, the Krka National Park also has other charms.

Some are less known, but incredibly valuable. So, here we also left the classic tourist route and headed up the Krka River, unaware that the path leads all the way back to the time of Roman Emperor Vespasian.

I admit, not even we, like most tourists, could resist to get our picture taken on the pathway that leads across the river, with the motif of the impressive Skradinski buk in the background, and swimming in the crystal clean and attractive Krka. At the buk, we recognized the remains of the former "Krka" hydro power plant, built in 1895, which started working only two days after Tesla's hydro power plant at Niagara Falls. At the same time, the first electrical supply system in Croatia

tip: If you plan to visit the Krka in the summer months, definitely take a bathing suit with you.

Swimming at Skradinski buk is an experience not to be missed.

Photos: the streets and passages of Skradin (top left and right); peka dishes are a traditional specialty of the Ĺ ibenik area (bottom left); swimming at Skradinski buk in the summer months (bottom right).

April / May 2014.

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Blue Croatia

KRKA NATIONAL PARK

tip: You can reach Visovac by boat from Skradinski buk or from Stinica, which you can reach by road over the Čikola canyon.

Photos: presentation of old trades: blacksmith and weaver (top left and middle left); every year, more and more tourists visit the Krka National Park (top); an excursion boat that sails along the Krka River (bottom left); the island of Visovac is located in the middle of Visovac Lake (bottom right).

There are seven waterfalls on the Krka River, and each has its own name: Skradinski buk, Roški slap, Bilušića buk, Manojlovački slap, Brljan, Rošnjak and Miljacka slap.

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was built, which gave Šibenik street lights before many European cities such as Vienna, Budapest, Rome, London, etc. Today, the hydro power plant is protected as a monument of industrial architecture.

A river life revolves around Although there are around thirty along the river, at Skradinski buk you will see the best preserved and renewed watermills dating back to the 19th century, which long ago ground grain from numerous coastal cities, from Dubrovnik in the south to the Istrian peninsula in the north. For the people of Šibenik, they represent an important monument of the economic past, since they were a source of income for their ancestors. At the Upper House, the largest preserved estate, have a look at

the watermill, the kitchen, the miller's accommodations, and the barn. There are six renovated mills, a grindstone, columns... Locals will gladly show you how grains are ground, how cloth was washed and softened, and how bags were woven.

The river took us further down an 8.5 km long educational path, Stinice. Next to the path, you will find educational signs with information on plant and animal life in the park, geological findings, and cultural-historical structures found along the path that are worth having a look at. On the other side, cascades and lakes formed by the Krka on its way to the estuary will attract your attention.

And just when you find yourself in the situation where you don't know what to do first - head out to some hidden structure along the path or take out your camera, aim it at a waterfall, and

April / May 2014.

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Blue Croatia

KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Photos: a procession for Assumption with a picture of the Holy Mother (top left); the park that surrounds the church and monastery on Visovac (top right); the Etnoland Dalmati theme park shows the culture and customs of people of this area (bottom left); part of the museum collection of the Franciscan monastery on Visovac (bottom middle).

Etnoland Dalmati is located in Pakovo selo, only a tenminute ride from Krka NP. At this theme park, you can find out more about the culture and customs of people of this are and enjoy traditional Dalmatian food and drinks: food under the peka, prosciutto from Drniš, domestic liqueurs and spirits, and red and white wines.

Etnoland is open all year long, but appointments should be made for individual visits.

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start endlessly clicking, a third vision appears - as if in a fairy tale, the island of Visovac in the middle of the Visovac Lake.

on this island. Due to the century-long worshiping of Our Mother of Visovac Island, the island is often called Our Lady's Island.

On Our Lady's Island

In the mystical monastery

Back in 1445, Franciscan priests established their home in the peace and loud silence of this island, by building the monastery of Mother of Mercy and the church of Our Lady of Visovac, surrounded by willows, poplars, and cypress trees, and an idyllic park.

The gates to this island of peace and prayer were opened to everyone, and are now visited daily by many pilgrims, but also tourists from all over the world.

The Franciscans are glad to show their valuable archeological collection, sacral artefacts, and dishes, and their abundant library with valuable books and incunabules. Still, the most valuable item is the picture of Our Lady that, according to legend, the Franciscans brought with them when they left Bosnia under Turkish siege, and found their new home

We leave peaceful Visovac, return to land, and continue upriver. We reach Roški slap, whose cascades are often called Ogrlice (necklaces) by the locals.

When you see it, you'll understand why.

It was named after the Rog fort, which is barely visible today. The hydro power plant, many mills, of which some have been renewed and put to work, the columns for processing wool and the road that passes over the waterfalls since Roman times, were enough to have an idea of the liveliness of this area before, the hardworking millers and their wives who diligently processed wool, washed cloth, and made a living that way. Slowly we have started losing all trace of any tourists. We arrive at an expanded part of the Krka River, called Carigradska draga, where in the heart of the Krka

Photos: some of the mills on Roški slap have been put into function (top left); a view of Roški slap (top right); the locals call the cascades of Roški slap "Ogrlice" ("Necklaces") (bottom).

On the banks of the Krka River, you will come across the ruins of 14th century medieval fortresses: Ključica, Kamičak, Bogočin (Vilin grad), Nečven, and Trošenj.

At the top of the canyon, above Roški slap, Oziđan cave, shaped like a tunnel, was found. It was used as a place of residence, and remains of pottery, stone knives, and stone tools from the Neolithic and Bronze ages were found in it. In other words, the cave was inhabited from about 5000 to 1500 B.C.

April / May 2014.

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Blue Croatia

KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Photos: excursion boats sail to Roški slap (top left); view of Carigradska draga, the Krka canyon (top right); Krka Monastery (bottom left); Manojlovački slap is the tallest waterfall of the Krka (bottom right).

tip: You can reach the Krka Monastery from Roški slap with a Krka NP boat, which will take you down the canyon of this fascinating river.

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canyon, in greenery and indescribable peace, we find the mystical and interesting Krka monastery, dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel. It was built on the foundations of the old eremite monastery and is the spiritual center of the Orthodox Dalmatian eparchy. It was ordered built by Serbian princess Jelena, married to Croatian Prince Mladen Šubić II. Next to the monastery is a Byzantinestyle church, and beneath the monastery are catacombs, which visitors haven't been able to access. However, now they can also be toured. Amongst the valuable exhibits are the monastery iconostasis and paintings by Vlaho Bukovac, a famous Croatian painter. The abundant treasury of the monastery, with more than two thousand artefacts, included valuable items from Jerusalem, the Sacred Mountain, Venice and the Russian Empire. The monastery also houses a

library filled with historical manuscripts, incunabules, and rare books.

Globally valuable finding We continue following the Krka headwaters which have now brought us to the tallest waterfall of the river Manojlovački slap, which many consider to be the prettiest waterfall of the Krka River (even more beautiful than Skradinski buk!) It is about 500 m long, and 80 meters wide. Bear in mind that in the warmer part of the year, it dries out because its water is then taken by the nearby "Miljacka" hydro power plant.

At the base of the falls, you will see the ruins of old, abandoned mills.

Besides the old mills, the area along the Krka River is full of archeological sites, in the area of the National Park alone, there are about twenty, from various

Photos: Burnumske Ide are held at the Burnum site in the summer months (top left); the Burnum Archeological collection (top right); remains of stone arches are part of the former camp command center (bottom).

periods: from prehistoric to medieval.

We first read about it in the guidebook, and soon saw for ourselves, when the idyllic view of the falls with mills on the right bank of the Krka was replaced with Burnum, a Roman military camp from the 1st century A.D. These remains of stone arches in the middle of a field, are part of a former praetorium, a camp command center, where the XI. Legion of the Roman army held camp. Recently an amphitheater from the year 76/77 was discovered, built at the time of Claudius, and expanded at the time of Emperor Vespasius. This globally valuable find is the only military amphitheater in Croatia, and according to estimates, it could accommodate between six and ten thousand people. During the excavation, many different items were found here: glass, hardware, ceramics, money, pottery, etc., and they have been

exhibited in the Puljane archeological park, located seven kilometers away, where you can see the reconstruction of a former Roman community. It is easy to get there since there is a large sign on the Oklaj-Kistanje road, which will guide you to the museum. ď ś

tip: Come to Burnumske Ide, a festival that will take you back in time to the time of Roman Emperors, held during full moons in the summer months.

Every year, Burnumske Ide, a festival that will take you back in time to the time of Roman Emperors, is held in the summer months in the Roman military amphitheater. Here, during the Ide (the day of the full moon, which the Romans considered to be a good day to organize ceremonies) you will have the chance to participate in old Roman games, watch gladiator fights, see how ancient football was played, and what kinds of hairstyles were worn at the time. It is also a chance to try ancient dishes and drinks...

April / May 2014.

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Blue Croatia

KNIN

A symbol of Croatian kings Photo: The Knin fortress is one of the largest Croatian fortification monuments and the second largest military fortress in Europe. It consists of five interconnected and wellpreserved entities (top).

tip: The Knin fortress is open daily from March 16 to October 31, from 7 AM to 7 PM. In the off-season, the working hours are from 7 AM to 3 PM.

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W

e leave Krka National Park and head on by car to Knin, located 25 km away. Our goal is to reach the Knin fortress, which we often saw while passing through Knin on our way to the coast, but we never stopped, climbed it and explored it. Perhaps in part because we always passed by in the hot summer months, and so climbing the 345 meters above sea level, and 100 meters above the city wasn't an option. Especially if you take into account that the temperature in the summer in Knin often exceeds 40 degrees Celsius, and the city is known as the warmest in Croatia.

However, on this pleasant afternoon, we decided to finally "conquer" this fortress on Spas Mountain. Still, not in the way the Croatian kings used to, to reach the place where some had temporary, and others permanent thrones.

Immediately upon arrival it became clear that we would need several hours to tour the entire complex since it is made up of five interconnected and incredibly well preserved entities: the Lower, Middle and Upper Town, Belvedere station, dungeon, and various

other buildings necessary for the functioning of the fortress as complete urban entity. Still, the Knin fortress is one of the largest Croatian fortification monuments and the second largest military fortress in Europe and so rightly deserved a little more than the originally planned time for touring. It is nearly impossible to feel anything but safe within its defensive walls, 20 meters high in some places, and at two kilometers long, they encircle the fortress on all sides. However, after touring the complex and the Knin Museum, which is located within its walls, we felt slightly tired, and decided to seek refreshment in the restaurant within the complex, before returning to Zagreb.

Here, at this former symbol of Croatian kings, and in recent times of Croatia sovereignty, we end our trip to the Ĺ ibenik-Knin County. For now. Because on our 300 km trip back to Zagreb, we already planned our new itinerary through this unbelievable county, full of undiscovered stories, mystical sites, and interesting hosts. ď ś

REGION ŠIBENIK-KNIN

600 ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES 230 CULTURAL MONUMENTS 11 MEDIEVAL FORTIFICATIONS 2 NATIONAL PARKS

ONE REGION

REGION ŠIBENIK-KNIN

ŠIBENIK-KNIN REGION TOURIST BOARD • tel./fax. +385 (0)22 212346 • info@sibenikregion.com www.sibenikregion.com • www.facebook.com/croatia.sibenik April / May 2014.

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following e h t n o t u o Don't miss May, and June 2014 pril, events in A

Photo archive: Red Bull Air Race

u o y 4 s tip

Rovinj to host Red Bull Air Race The historic Adriatic coast of Rovinj will play host to the Red Bull Air Race from 12-13 April 2014. The popular race series' second stop is the picturesque port town and promises to be an ideal addition to the race calendar. The Red Bull Air Race World Championship features the world's best race pilots in a motorsport competition which is unrivalled in the aviation race world. Tickets start at just 13 Euros, and the event promises to be an unforgettable viewing experience. www.croatiameetings.com  www.tzgrovinj.hr

For the fourteenth year in a row, St. Filip and Jakov is in the sign of flowers.

Immerse yourself in the powerful scents of flower fields, and enjoy the abundant collage of colors this year as well, from April 25 to 27. At the festival, you can participate at ecoworkshops, presentations, advice groups and lectures, arranging competitions, exhibitions, and fashion shows.

Pearl of the Sea International Culinary Festival

www.supetar.hr

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www.sv-filipjakov.hr

Photo: Robert Kunštek

Professional chefs, amateur cooks, restaurants and hotels from more than 20 European countries will head to Supetar on the island of Brač in April to celebrate the beginning of the tourist season. Showing off a range of gastronomic treats through workshops, exhibitions and presentations, the lucky visitors will also be able to taste the best Croatian wines, steak tartare, truffle specialities and traditional Velika teča dishes served in a large pan at the event located along the Supetar harbour.

Photo: Robert Kunštek

Photo: Željka Kunštek

The Zadar County Flower Festival

Procession "Following the Cross" If you decide to spend Easter on Hvar Island, you will participate in its celebration the way it has been done for a full five centuries. The Procession "Following the Cross", held on Holy Thursday and Good Friday, when the locals from the towns in the interior of the island head out towards the other villages, will be held this year on April 17.

The processions head out from all six island communities, at the same time, and in the same direction, so that they never meet. This religious custom with a long tradition attracts more and more followers every year. www.tzjelsa.hr

Zagreb, or one of its most beautiful parks, Bundek, will once again be under the sign of Bundek, the flower show, from May 28 to June 1 of this year. Take a walk through Bundek, visit this, already traditional international garden show. Enjoy the scents and colors of the diverse flowers in the Croatian metropolis.

Photo: Robert Kunštek

Photo: Robert Crc, archive: Zagreb County Tourist Board

FloraArt

www.floraart.net

The International Knights' Tournament As is traditional, the 8th International Knight's Tournament will be held from May 23 to 25, 2014 in Sveti Ivan Zelina, at the former pool site. A total of 35 Knights', Archery, and Artists groups from Poland, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia will participate at the tournament, the largest in Croatia according to the number of participating groups. Along with Knight's duels, city sieges, and a night battle, the youngest visitors can visit the Enchanted Forest with many surprises, fairies and wizards, dwarves, and other fairytale characters.

All those interested can try fencing, archery, and catapulting, and they will also be able to try medieval food.

INJ

HERITAGE FESTIVAL - ROV

www.tz-zelina.hr

The "Tastes of the Mediterranean" food festival will be held in Šibenik from May 29 to June 1, 2014. Along with the international scientific-professional congress, lectures, and workshops, many activities will be held at the festival: a Mediterranean market with a cooking show, guided wine tasting, promotions, thematic evening programs, etc. The goal of the event is to promote gastronomy, especially Mediterranean cuisine, and the wine of Šibenik, the ŠibenikKnin County, as well as the other Croatian and foreign coastal regions.

Photo archive: Šibenik Tourist Board

www.sibenik-tourism.hr

Photo archive: Dolce Vita

Tastes of the Mediterranean

Dolce Vita in Rovinj The Heritage festival, Dolce Vita, which will be celebrating vintage culture in all its forms: music, film, design, fashion, dance, and music, will be held from June 6 to 8, 2014 in the old Tobacco factory in Rovinj. The festival will take all its visitors back to the 50s and 60s with a rich musical program of Croatian and foreign bands, as well as the best restaurants from Zagreb, Rovinj, and the region; an exhibition of old-timers, Vespas, and vintage furniture and vinyl; swing, lindy, jive, and twist dance workshops; and showings of vintage films and presentations of vintage hairstyles. www.dolcevitafestival.com

April / May 2014.

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Weekend trip

NOVIGRAD - CITTANOVA

On the western coast of the Istrian peninsula, there is a fishing village, made for weekend getaways from the bustle of daily life. Although it has been discovered by tourists, it has managed to retain its charm of a fishing village to which, once you discover it, you will return...

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Photo: MandraÄ? fishing harbor.

NOVIGRAD - CITTANOVA CROATIA

A fishing village made for a vacation Written by: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photo archive: Novigrad - Cittanova Tourist Board

April / May 2014.

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Weekend trip

NOVIGRAD - CITTANOVA

tip: Take a walk along the city walls in the evening when, thanks to lighting, they look even more impressive.

Photos: a panoramic view of Novigrad (top left); the strong city fortress has kept and protected the city for centuries (top right); the city fortress in the evening (bottom left); Lapidarium, the museum for the new era (bottom right).

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V

isually small, but once you scratch beneath the surface, relatively big. Equally attractive from the outside, as it is within its strong, partially preserved, city walls. Novigrad, a city which has everything you need for a great vacation, is like that.

Regardless whether you have come to spend an active athletic weekend, take a tour of the cultural sites of the town, enjoy an event, or relish the fantastic food experiences, take the time to get to know the hosts. You won't regret it...

Shrouded in mystery Let them tell you the story of the city fortress, the 13th century stone walls they are proud of, which have protected their city from external threats for centuries while also protecting its valuable interior. They

will turn your attention to the remains of country estates from ancient times, which you will come across while walking through the city, and admit that the old part of the city, located on the peninsula is still shrouded in mystery.

It still isn't known for sure how the city came to be, and according to some research, it is assumed that a Roman villa was located on its peninsula long ago. They will also tell you stories of the frequent pirate attacks on the city, and the remains from the Carolingian period, which continue to attract the attention from experts from all over the world.

A totally different museum Some of the items found from the Carolingian period can be seen in Lapidarium, a masterpiece of modern design, which is everything but a "classic" museum. They rightfully call it

the "museum of the new era" since it brought together modern and urban things with history in a fantastic way.

The building itself, shaped like two black boxes in a green park, is a story of its own. From the outside, stone monuments, parts of sacral architecture for which it is unique, are visible through its glass walls. This museum, the only one built recently in Istria, houses one of the most important collections of stone monuments in Croatia. Amongst them is the especially valuable ciborium of Bishop Maurice from the 8th century, a rare example of art of the early Carolingian period.

If you like to trace the paths of history, then definitely visit Gallerion, a collection that bears witness to the rich sailing tradition of this area. Like a time machine, it will reveal the secrets and plans of the Austro-Hungarian Empirical and Royal Navy regarding past action in the broad Adriatic region. Here you can also find many photographs, maps, and plans, uniforms of officers, sailors, and captains who came to the Istrian harbor from all over the world, as well as instruments and weapons, without which sailing at that time would not be safe, on display.

Nature has always created hideouts and shelters from storm winds, high waves, and powerful storms on its own. Such shelters, coves, or "mandrači", became places where people stayed and formed small communities.

On the global gourmet map When you get your fill of history, head over to Mandrač and relax with the host's stories and songs, which often fill this favorite gathering ground in the city. Local ships always flocked to this small, protected, fishing harbor, and fish and seafood were traded here. As they are today.

Besides finding its way to homes, a large portion of the catch will find its ways to the taverns and restaurants of Novigrad, which adapt their daily menu according to what is found in the nets of the hardworking fishermen of Novigrad. The skilled chefs will season it with superb local olive oil, one of the best in the world, and the gourmet story will be summed up with highquality wine. The quality of Novigrad's gastronomy is confirmed not only by the loyal gourmets, who keep coming back, but also by the fact that the restaurants and taverns of this city have been included in the most prestigious food publications and guides.

Photos (from top to bottom): The Mandrač fishing harbor has always been a favorite gathering place for the locals; Gallerion, the sea collection; Novigrad is a famous gourmet destination; a winery in Novigrad; the vineyards of Novigrad.

Scallops ("kapešante") are one of the tastiest shellfish in the world, thanks to the mixing of salty seawater with the fresh river water in the Novigrad area. A gourmet festival "Novigradske kapešante" is held in Novigrad in honor of this unique shellfish every year.

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Weekend trip

NOVIGRAD - CITTANOVA

tip: Climb up the city bell tower and have a look at the city through the telescope. Admission is free.

The mysterious and slightly scary crypt of Novigrad's St. Pelagius Cathedral is the only historical crypt in Istria, and one of only a few in Croatia. It contains the sarcophagus with relics of the city's patron saint, St. Pelagius, an early Christian martyr, who, according to legend, refused to denounce his faith even while being tortured.

Photos: many festivals take place in Novigrad from late spring to early autumn (top left); the Novigrad marina with a shell-shaped pier structure (top right); the crypt of the St. Pelagius Cathedral (bottom left); a video projection on the city bell tower during the Astro party Lunasa (bottom right).

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Fun under the stars All fans of cultural and entertaining festivals should definitely visit Novigrad from late spring to early autumn. At that time, the city streets and squares transform into a stage canopied only by the starry sky. Along with the food festivals, which will introduce you to traditional products and the fishing traditions of the area, many other festivals and events take place. One of the most famous is the Astro party Lunasa, an event marked by astronomy and mythology, where the city lights are turned off, and the only light and magical ambiance is given by torches and candles. One of the largest events is the celebration of the Day of the City and the patron saint of Novigrad, St. Pelagius, held over the course of a few days in late August.

For those whose adrenaline levels are raised most by sports activities, Novigrad has a lot to offer. From modern tennis courts, football fields, as well as

volleyball courts, to many marked hiking and biking trails. If its "wind in your hair" you seek, you can try waterskiing, windsailing, paragliding, or riding quads. You can also try paintball, free climbing, underwater fishing, or diving.

Nautical base Sailors will also come into their own here. The prime location of the Novigrad bay, protected from winds, is bait in itself. However, if you add in the modernly equipped marina, with a shell-shaped pier structure, which ensures added security, it becomes clear why there are many "docked beauties" here. The marina works all year long and offers dry-dock services, and sailors also love it because of the easy access for vehicles, and the vicinity of the old town center. If you are not a sailor, and so won't stay afloat overnight, you can find accommodations in one of Novigrad's hotels, camps, small boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, or suites. ď ś

Web: Email

Web: www.novigrad-cittanova.hr www.novigrad-cittanova.hr www.novigrad-cittanova.hr Web:

...in all the colours of Istria

Email: info@novigrad-cittanova.hr info@novigrad-cittanova.hr e-mail: Email: Telefon: 052 757 075 tel: +385 052 (0)52757 757075 Telefon: 075

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TIHOMIR NIKOLAŠ Photo archive: UPUHH

Interview

TIHOMIR NIKOLAŠ, president of the CCU and Member of the Board of Riviera Adria d.d.

How should Croatian camps be specialized, what glamping is and what the procedure for receiving the Ecocamping label is, are just some of the questions we discussed with president of the Croatian Camping Union and Member of the Board of Riviera Adria d.d., Tihomir Nikolaš.

Conducted by: Željka Kunštek Photo archive: CCU

Croatia's camping advantages are beautiful

beaches and preserved nature tip: All the information necessary for properly planning a vacation in Croatian camps can be found in one place at www.camping.hr

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T

he preseason is starting, a large number of camps are expecting their first guests in mid-April. What challenges will Croatian camps have this year?

Most of our camps will open their gates about a week before Easter, so in mid-April. Some of the challenges they will definitely have this year are facing the situation on other markets, such as the Netherlands and Germany,

as well as weather challenges. It is well-known that weather affects camp capacity, and camping is dependent on sun more than any other segment.

A large challenge is also the lack of investments, camp facilities, and product investment. On the other hand, some of our great advantages are an extremely great geographical position and beautiful and preserved nature.

Camp Finida, Umag

Camp Polari, Rovinj

Photos: Beautiful beaches, especially for those who do not insist on sandy beaches, are Croatia's great advantage.

Camp Padova III, Rab

You have already, on several occasions, emphasized the importance of specialized offers in Croatian camping and the potential development of camps in the continental region of Croatia. How should the camps in Croatia be specialized?

As far as specialization is concerned, I primarily think of smaller camps, which should head in the direction of positioning themselves as wellness&spa camps, family camps, or camps with more content for children, as well as adult camps, which are most visited by adult. We definitely lack camps in the continental region of Croatia, like at entrances to larger cities, and transit camps, especially attractive for tourists who are just passing through, as well as for youth coming to Croatian destinations for various events. Lika

Camp Sirena, Novigrad

and Gorski kotar, for example, have excellent potential for the development of continental camps. A good example of such camps can be seen in Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands, where fantastic camps have often been developed inland next to lakes, as many would say, "in the middle of nothing".

Over the past few years, a greater number of mobile homes and bungalows. What kinds of guests choose this kind of accommodation?

Over the past few years, mobile homes and bungalows have experiences a "boom" in Croatia as well, and they are chosen by a slightly different profile of guests than those who arrive with campers and tents. These accommodations are usually chosen by hotel guests, as well as those who are used to staying in suites.

Currently in Croatia, we have about four thousand bungalow units, and about six thousand mobile homes, which are partly independently managed by camps, while some are managed by large European tour operators.

A new global trend is glamping, or glamorous camping. What kind of camping is it and when can we expect such a kind of camping in Croatia?

"Glamping" is literally a word used for luxurious tents, while generally it represents every more luxurious form of accommodations in a camp. It can be, for example premium mobile homes, which can be up to 50 square meters in size, cabins with luxurious furnishings, etc.

Glamping, with luxurious tents, doesn't exist so far in Croatia, although there are signs that it could arrive in some of destinations soon. On the other hand, April / May 2014.

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Interview

TIHOMIR NIKOLAŠ

Camp Valkanela, Vrsar

Camp Polari, Rovinj

Camp Sirena, Novigrad

Photos: Croatia's camping offer includes luxurious mobile homes with private pools, as well as mobile homes with jacuzzis.

tip: Personally, I would recommend Kvarner to everyone. It is still "wild" enough, while also close enough to campers from the countries of Western Europe.

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luxury camping does exist in Croatia.

For example, luxury mobile homes with private pools can be found in the Park Umag, Sirena, Mareda, and Valkanela camps, while mobile homes with jacuzzis can be found in the Polari and Kozarica camps. The Krk camp has a wellness and spa center, and last year the first Aquapark, spreading over more than eight thousand square meters at the Solaris Beach Resort in Šibenik, which also has a modernly equipped camp.

Last year the project of receiving ecological certificates for all Croatian camps was launched. What is the procedure for getting the Ecocamping eco label and does such a camp already exist in Croatia?

In collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Croatia, and Ecocamping, the leading German

association for certifying the ecological sustainability of camps, last year, the CCU launched an entirely new project for getting ecological certificates for Croatian camps. During September, representatives from Ecocamping toured ten Croatian camps: Baldarin (Punta Križa), Kovačine (Cres), Krk (Krk), Paklenica (Starigrad Paklenica), Park Soline (Biograd na moru), Park Umag (Umag), Solaris (Šibenik), Ulika (Poreč), Valalta (Rovinj) and Zaton (Nin).

After the tour, they made a detailed analysis with a sustainability evaluation, and a group of proposals for their improvement. All ten camps received a certificate of participation in the project, so we can expect the continuation of the project. If a camp enters the procedure, improves, and fulfils the criteria, it gets a two-year certificate, after which it is evaluated once again. For now, the only

camp in Croatia that has this certificate is Glavotok on the island of Krk. What activities and projects will the CCU focus on this year?

The CCU, as an association of camp owners helps its members understand legislative regulations and largely regarding education, which place a lot of emphasis on. Training is held through the organization of various lectures, workshops in the counties, and an annual trade convention at the camping congress, which gathers not only our members, but also other representatives of the camping industry from Croatia and abroad, representatives from the public sector, trade associations from Croatia, etc. It is an excellent opportunity to share knowledge and experience, and many interesting lectures on trends in the camping industry are held at the congress. The training is truly diverse: from high quality spatial planning of camps to marketing, sales, internet, etc. One of the useful education tools we use is a study trip we organize every year for our members, where we tour the best camps in Europe. Also, in recent times, we have placed great emphasis on ecology, and the importance of increasing sustainability in camps, where I mean environmental sustainability, but also social and economic sustainability. So last year, the CCU was the initiator of the mentioned Ecocamping project in Croatia.

For years, Croatian camps have received quality awards. Where have we received high marks, and what still needs to be improved?

The fact that Croatia has high quality camps has been confirmed by the ADAC guide, published by the German auto club, which is considered to be the most influential European camping guide, and which positioned Croatian camps at a high third place for quality, right behind France and the Netherlands.

Lower scores were given to Croatian camps for lot and sanitary facilities, but on the other hand, they regularly get high scores for beach cleanliness and quality, offer of food and drinks, animation, etc. If we take into account that Croatian camps have a small percentage of domestic guests, we could say that Croatia is a camping superpower. The prestigious sign of

Lubenice, Cres Photos: Croatian camps regularly receive high marks for beach cleanliness and quality, offer of food and drinks, animation, etc.

As a part of the "Croatia's Best Campsites" project, camps that satisfy the demanding criteria are included in the brochure that shows the best Croatian camps at international travel and specialized fairs and on the most important camping websites. However, along with highquality large and mid-sized camps, Croatia also has many small high-quality camps that have received the "OK Mini Camps" quality certificate. The best quality sites are presented in the brochure of the same name, and on the www.camping.hr website.

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Interview

TIHOMIR NIKOLAŠ

Camp Lanterna, Premium mobile houses, Poreč (Tar)

Photo: the Lanterna camp in Istria is one of the four recipients of the prestigious BestCamping 2013 sign of quality.

quality BestCamping 2013, issued by the German ADAC guide and the Royal Dutch Touring Club, ANWB, was issued to the four best Croatian camps: Lanterna (Tar), Park Umag (Umag), Zaton (Nin) and Valalta (Rovinj). Another important international recognition given to Croatian camps last year was the DCC Europa Preis for 2013, as well as the German Camping Club for the Straško camp in Novalja on the island of Pag, the Alan Rogers Progress Award to the Kovačina camp on the island of Cres, and the already mentioned Ecocamping 2013 award to the Glavotok camp on the island of Krk. Such results are great

Croatia is also interesting in that it also has many camps on the islands, so just getting there is a special experience for campers.

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motivation for the further investment in and development of Croatian camps.

We suppose that you personally also love camping. Where are your favorite places to camp in Croatia, and where abroad? What are some must-see places for campers in Croatia?

Personally, I would recommend Kvarner to everyone as an extremely interesting camping destination since it is still "wild" enough, but still close enough to Zagreb, the Croatian metropolis, but also to guests from Western Europe. We could truly describe that region as the "Mediterranean as it once was". Croatia is also interesting in that it has many camps on the islands as well, so just getting there is a special experience for campers. Of course, the beautiful beaches, especially for those who do not insist on sandy beaches, are our great advantage. As far as travelling abroad, for family vacations, I prefer to choose Italian camps. 

PROMO

Valamar Zagreb Hotel

Valamar Dubrovnik President Hotel

Valamar Argosy Hotel

Novelties in Valamar Hotels & Resorts in 2014

I

n order to continue offering the best services and unforgettable experiences to their guests, Valamar Hotels and Resorts constantly invest in new projects and in raising the quality of their offer and services.

The 2014 season will be marked with novelties in two Valamar destinations: Poreč and Dubrovnik. So Valamar's Hotel Zagreb in Poreč will receive 4 stars after a 53 million kuna investment.

Along with a renovated exterior, the hotel will offer more spacious, modernly designed rooms with fantastic content, as well as new rooms for persons with special needs. The guest's favorite show cooking restaurant will have an even larger terrace, an entirely new animation concept for children with Maro clubs, new playgrounds, a Teen's Club, and play center. The hotel's outdoor pool will also be completely renovated.

If you would like to enjoy the charms of gorgeous Dubrovnik, this year Valamar offers novelties in Babin kuk. Hotel Valamar Dubrovnik President will enter the 2014 season with a higher level of quality of its services and as the first five-star Valamar hotel, which will contribute to the further affirmation of Dubrovnik as a prestigious tourist destination. The hotel will have 111 new accommodation units (premium and deluxe rooms, luxury suites, and the presidential suite), a new outdoor pool, the congress center and parking lot will be expanded, the reception, lobby, indoor pool, spa, restaurant and bars, and the beaches and facilities will be completely renovated. This investment will amount to approximately 150 million kuna. The 5* Hotel Valamar Dubrovnik President will greet its first guests in early June.

* Photos are for illustration purposes only. Projects are subject to permits and master plans.

The Argosy Hotel is also undergoing renovation and expansion, and will also enter the 2014 season with an extra star to become a high fourstar hotel. Around 37.5 million kuna will be invested with emphasis on a new outdoor pool with terraces and landscaping, the reconstruction of the indoor pool, new wellness and spa areas, a redesign of shared spaces, and furnishing of accommodation units. The completion of construction and opening of the Valamar Argosy 4* is planned for early April. In wishing to offer guests an enjoyable and relaxing oasis with a modern offer, and with the goal of providing them with an unforgettable vacation where every part of the hotel is equipped and organized superbly, through carefully designed products, the Valamar Dubrovnik President 5* and Valamar Argosy 4* will bring a new quality to the travel offer of Valamar and Dubrovnik as a destination. 

Valamar Hotels & Resorts, Miramarska 24, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, reservations@valamar.com, www.valamar.com April / May 2014.

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Beauties of Croatia

VELI RAT

Na

( tio arc Se na hiv rg l T e o io Pho G ou f t ris Cro obb o: t B at o oa ian rd )

Veli Rat Lighthouse

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The northwestern point of Dugi otok, an island in the Zadar archipelago, and also the largest in the group of northern Dalmatian islands, is the home of an impressive lighthouse. It bears the name Veli Rat, just like the nearby village. Built back in 1849, at a height of 42 meters, it is the tallest lighthouse in the Adriatic. It is also very well-known for its yellow faรงade for which local legends say one hundred thousand eggs were used to make it. The lighthouse courtyard is home to the Chapel of St. Nicholas, protector saint of sailors, which is an ever-more popular site for organizing romantic weddings, and the apartment accommodations in the lighthouse can also be rented out.

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City break

ZAPREŠIĆ

City break

Photo archive: Lužnica Castle

ZAPREŠIĆ

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Castles and churches, a diverse offer of food, many events, and countless possibilities for an active vacation: from golf, cycling, fishing, and hiking to hang gliding, horse jumping, and kite flying all await you only 17 km west of Zagreb. Meet Zaprešić...

tipTravelMagazine April / May 2014.

ZAPREŠIĆ CROATIA

A city of castles, nobility,

and active vacations Written by: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: archive of Zagreb County Tourist Board, archive of Zaprešić Tourist Board, archive of Lužnica castle

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ZAPREŠIĆ

1. New Jelačić Palace The old Croatian aristocratic Jelačić family has always been tied to Zaprešić. Back in 1851, Ban Josip Jelačić bought the New Palace, which spreads over 20.5 hectares, from Count Erdödy, and today contains the neo-gothic chapel of St. Josip, the tomb of the Jelačić family, a park, orchard, vegetable garden, arable land, a parkforest, and residential and farm buildings, of which the round threshing building from the 17th century is especially valuable.

That zero-category monument is the only and the oldest such building in Croatia, while the New Palace, with all its content, is a valuable cultural-historical site, and a unique example of the preservation of a complete farming manorial complex.

3. "Jelačić Days" and the Noble Youth Every year, on October 16, the people of Zaprešić traditionally mark the anniversary of the birth of Ban Josip Jelačić and also celebrate the Day of the City. However, many cultural, entertaining and sports events are held that month in honor of the Ban under the shared name of "Jelačić Days". In order to preserve and keep the customs of nobility and memory of Ban Jelačić from falling into oblivion, the "Noble Youth" artistic association continues to nurture and present the culture of the life of nobility from the 19th century through the organization of various events: the Christmas Waltz, Jelačić Ball, Nobility Days in the New Palace...

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Photo archive: Lužnica Castle

City break

2. Lužnica Castle Lužnica, a castle built in the 18th century under the influence of central European, and especially Austrian Baroque, is one of the representative castles of the Zaprešić area and a firstcategory monument. It is surrounded by an expansive English-style park with a lake, and some of the special features of the castle are the Rococo-era altar in the castle's chapel, and a carved wood staircase. The castle was once owned by the Rauch family, and today it houses the Spiritual-Educational Center of the Sisters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul "Mary's Court". The castle is open to the public, and more information can be found at: www.luznica.com

4. Zajarki Lake and the Zaprešić train station Zajarki Lake in Zaprešić is one of the largest quarry lakes in the Zagreb County. It is a favorite amongst fishermen, and it is managed by the "Šaran" Zaprešić Sports Fishing Society. Nearby the lake is the Zaprešić train station, where the Hungarian flag was taken down in 1903, which was the main trigger for the breakout of the so-called national movement in what was then the Triune Kingdom.

5. Golf at the New Palace The "Ban Jelačić" Golf Center and Golf Club, one of the leading golf clubs in Croatia, are located within the New Palace Complex. There, on the golf course, gold school, tournaments, and various events are held, and this sport can also be played in the evening hours.

The course has practice ranges for short and long games, a putting range, and an overhang with four places.

6. Horseback riding Zaprešić is well-known for its many options for an active vacation, and one option is horseback riding. Riding school is held by the Trajbar Team Equestrian Club, which also organizes numerous national and international competitions that regularly attract fans of equestrian sports to the area.

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The area surrounding Zaprešić, with the Municipalities of Brdovec, Dubravica, and Marija Gorica, hides many interesting things: from cultural attractions to natural bounties, and valuable archeological findings. For example, did you know that the only carnivorous plant in Croatia was found in this area, or that the teeth of an ancient elephant were found here?

Photo: Boris Gerenčević, archive of Public Institution Green Ring, Zagreb County

BRDOVEC, DUBRAVICA & MARIJA GORICA

Carnivorous plant The sundew (Drosera rotundifolia), the only carnivorous plant found in Croatia, grows in the Čret Dubravica Botanical Reserve in the municipality of Dubravica, in the Sutla Valley, about 15 kilometers from Zaprešić. This plant is even found on the crest of this municipality.

The Januševec and Laduč castles Although they are not open to the public, the Januševec and Laduč castles are located in the Brdovec Municipality.

Januševec castle is considered to be the most beautiful classical castle in Croatia, and it is a zero-category monument, which currently houses part of the Croatian National Archive. The Castle with gardens in Laduč was built on the place of the former Old Palace, and its last owners were the Vranyczany-Dobrinović barons, a notable family of Croatian cultural and political life in the 19th century. Presently, the castle houses an orphanage for children.

Photo archive: Zagreb County Tourist Board

Interesting facts

LADUČ CASTLE

Brdovec Museum

Photo archive: Brdovec Museum

JANUŠEVEC CASTLE

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The Brdovec Museum, in the municipality of the same name, located four kilometers from Zaprešić, is another must-see site in this area. You will be able to find out a lot about what life was like in this area from the valuable archeological, ethnographic, and cultural-historical collection of this museum. Here you will be able to see a bronze helmet with an iron thorn on top, which is the first such discovered helmet in the world. The museum garden houses a small ethno park.

Ancient elephant from Marija Gorica The teeth of an ancient elephant (Deinotherium giganteum KAUP), a large mammal whose greatest feature were large, curved tusks (teeth) in its bottom jaw, were found near the church in the municipality of Marija Gorica, a hilly area located around ten kilometers from Zaprešić. It is assumed that the ancient elephant found his way here while grazing on large fields, to the area of great lakes and swamps that were abundant here at the time.

Its picture is on the crest of the Municipality of Marija Gorica. Also, a rhinoceros' tooth was found in this area.

Explore Zagreb County

BEAUTIFUL NECKLACE AROUND THE CAPITAL CITY

Zagreb County Tourist Board Preradovićeva 42, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia tel.: +385 1 4873665, fax: +385 1 4873670 e-mail: info@tzzz.hr, www.tzzz.hr April / May 2014.

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Events

ZAGREB

Photo: a buggy in Zrinjevac Park.

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Photo: costumed characters will also await you on Zrinjevac.

tip: On Saturdays, spend your day on Zrinjevac with the sound of waltzes, canzones, evergreens...

The Zagreb Time Machine

Experience Old Zagreb Prepared by: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: archive of Zagreb Tourist Board

Traditionally, from mid-April to late September, the streets, squares, parks, and gardens of Zagreb live in the spirit of the past, which the people of Zagreb tirelessly protect from falling into oblivion. So don't be shocked if, while walking through Zagreb at that time of year, you hear old town love songs, see an old-fashioned postman, newsboy, or city guard, meet Marija Jurić Zagorka or the Knights of the Order of the Silver Dragon... Take a walk through the streets of Zagreb, dance to the sounds of evergreens or Italian 'canzones' on Zrinjevac, get fresh fruit, vegetables, and flowers from the 'kumice' on Dolac... and feel the rhythm of Zagreb.

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Events

ZAGREB

Maksimir Park was officially opened to the public in 1794, and at the time it was one of the most important parks of what was then the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and it was the first public park in south-eastern Europe. Today, it has been protected as a cultural site and monument of park architecture, for its significance.

Photos: you can enjoy promenade concerts in Maksimir Park (top); it isn't uncommon to see characters and heroes from Zagreb's past downtown on weekends (bottom left); street performers are responsible for the special ambiance on the Upper Town (bottom right).

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T

he Zagreb Time Machine is an event that Zagrebians and their guests, after a long winter, impatiently await for every spring and enjoy it to the end of September.

This festival includes many events, which delight passersby and visitors in city streets, squares, and parks, and take them back to the time of Old Zagreb.

Dance nights on Zrinjevac On Saturdays, in the Upper Town, the old part of Zagreb, you can see letter carriers in old-fashioned uniforms, paperboys, the first female Croatian journalist Marija Jurić Zagorka, the city guards, knights, and characters and heroes from various legends. Even Zrinjevac

Park, located only a few minutes walking distance from Zagreb's main square, will take you back in time on Saturdays, mostly with sounds. In the Musical Pavilion, which has stood the test of time since 1891, waltzes and marches, Italian canzonas, jazz, and the evergreens, are played, enticing you to dance. In the evening, this romantic park turns into a dance floor, where dance nights are held. Don't hold back and dance the night away...

Promenade concerts in Maksimir You can also enjoy promenade concerts on Sundays in Maksimir Park, one of Zagreb's most beautiful parks. Here

you will hear chansons, waltzes, polkas, and opera arias. Saturdays and Sundays are also especially lively in the very center of the city with folk dance groups from Zagreb and the surrounding area sharing songs, music and traditions, and often handing out cakes, prepared in the traditional way, and apples. Slightly different musical delights can be heard on the streets of the Upper Town, where old town or love songs are performed here by street performers, just like in the olden days. After your walk, take a break in Tkalčićeva ulica, popularly known as Tkalča. In this lively street of music and entertainment, get some food, have some coffee, and enjoy the performances of various street performers, with the sounds of classics and jazz.

Have you been taken back to the past in a time machine or can you actually see the characters from stories told long time ago standing right next to you? Everything is here: a nostalgic song, a bunch of owers and the times we brought back to the streets of Zagreb because of you… www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

To Dolac for fresh fruit and vegetables On Friday and Saturday mornings, from June to October, stop by Dolac, Zagreb's most famous open market, located in the heart of Zagreb. Women from the Zagreb area, dressed in the folk costume from Prigorje, then sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and other domestic products. Their goal is to preserve the memory of ‘kumice', hard-working women who fed the people of Zagreb for centuries and walked for kilometers to the center of the city carrying woven baskets full of aromatic, delicious products from their gardens and farms, from falling into oblivion. We believe you won't be able to resist them either. 

This international street festival turns Zagreb into an all-out party place. Be sure to join in on the fun!

www.cestisdbest.com

tip: Stop by Dolac and get some fresh fruit and vegetables from the ‘kumice' dressed in traditional folk costumes.

Photos: the folk groups from Zagreb and the surrounding area take care of the good ambiance in the center of Zagreb on weekends (top left); you can buy fruit, vegetables, and flowers from women dressed in folk costumes from Prigorje on Zagreb's Dolac market (top right).

Croatia’s largest open-air music event, placed on the list of 50 best festivals in the world. Check it out! www.inmusicfestival.com

Fill your hearts with the spirit of Advent as the city streets, squares and parks are adorned with Christmassy delights. Treat yourself with Advent in Zagreb! www.adventzagreb.com

ZAGREB TOURIST BOARD

www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr tel. + 385 (0) 1 481 40 51

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Photo: archive of Zagreb Tourist Board

Photo: archive of Zagreb Tourist Board

e t In

g n i t s re

Zagreb is the secondbest destination in Europe

The Croatian capital Zagreb is among American ABC News website's Top 10 Cities in Europe for those on a Budget.

Zagreb was ranked number 10 on the list, with backpackers advised that the city was fairly cheap by European standards.

"Zagreb, Croatia: No. 10 on the list is Zagreb, a Croatian city often overlooked for the popular towns along the coast.

But at just $38.95 per day, it is a hard bargain to pass up, and is still 'fairly cheap' by European standards, and especially compared to Italy next door, Zagreb is a bargain and a worthwhile pause on the way to one of the beach towns", wrote ABC News.

At the recently completed electronic competition for the best European destination, held by the European Best Destinations website, Zagreb took second place! The only city that beat Zagreb was Porto, and the Croatian metropolis beat out strong competition from 18 other cities: Amsterdam, Berlin, Barcelona, Bergen, Budapest, Cannes, Geneva, Glasgow, Nicosia, London, Madeira, Madrid, Milan, Paris, Prague, Rome, Stockholm, and Vienna.

European Best Destinations is a non-profit organization with headquarters in Brussels, established with the goal of promoting culture and tourism in Europe. In organizing this competition, where voters vote for the best electronically, excellence is encouraged, and the winner's image is boosted, so those destinations attract significantly more guests.

www.croatiaweek.com

www.croatiameetings.com

Zagreb Amongst the Top 10 European Cities for Backpackers Master Award for the "Advent in Zagreb" promotional film At the international festival of travel films in Berlin, "Das goldene Stadttor", the promotional film "Advent in Zagreb" by the Zagreb Tourist Board, won the prestigious Master Award. The author of the film, which shows all the beauties of Advent in Zagreb is the Zagreb Tourist Board, and the executive producers are Miroslav Crnjaković from the Karla company, and Marko Maras from Maras Studio. At the same festival in 2011, the Zagreb Tourist Board won first place in the music video category for the film "Moonlight Sonata Zagreb".

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s t c fa Photo: archive of Zagreb Tourist Board

ZAGREB

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PROMO

-------------------------------------------- Zagreb Discover the downtown attractions with us!

I

n May 2013, upon completion of the renovation of the Jadran Hotel, located in the heart of Zagreb, it spiraled up the city's hotel scene with a totally new image. The Bed&Breakfast Boutique Hotel Jadran is located in Vlaška street, only five minutes away from the Zagreb cathedral and all the other city sites, which are literally a stone's throw away.

Hotel Jadran exudes the fresh, leisurely charm of a small hotel in the heart of the city with a long tradition of hospitality.

That is why it has become a favorite location for many foreign guests, who, in seeking accommodations near all the central city attractions, reserve their rooms in this lively hotel, and

one of six packages for city tours and accommodations. The hotel stands out for its custom planned weekend "city break" packages, which popularize weekends in our charming metropolis and surrounding area. Attractively named, these six carefully planned tours invite guests and visitors to discover Zagreb in an entirely different way, where they also get some exercise while using Segways and bicycles. Special offers for discovering Zagreb and the legend of the Black Queen, walking through the Green Horseshow, and travelling through the past and present of Zagreb, discovering the "Zagreb Sea" on bicycle, and revealing the "secret connection" between Zagreb

and Plitvice Lakes. With its irresistible charm and unique atmosphere, Hotel Jadran emphasizes that its services are not only focused on accommodating travelers, but also on promoting Zagreb as a supreme destination and offering guests an unforgettable experience.

Hotel Jadran, with its comfortable accommodations, abundant breakfast, many packages, but also specially designed rooms, is the ideal place for explorers of the city's secrets to stay.  To find out more about the sightseeing packages and accommodations at Hotel Jadran, please visit: www.hotel-jadran.com.hr/en/description

Hotel Jadran, Vlaška 50, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, tel: +385 1 4553 777, jadran@hup-zagreb.hr, www.hotel-jadran.com.hr April / May 2014.

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Historical traces...

ZAGREB

tip: While walking through Zagreb, stop by the sculpture of August Šenoa and take a picture with this great fan of Zagreb.

i

August Šenoa

Google maps street view location: http://goo.gl/maps/lRcbc Address: Branjugova / Vlaška street 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

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Prepared by: Željka Kunštek Photo: Robert Kunštek

August Šenoa

A

top old Grič hill, as a hero, handsome and young, bold head, strong forehead, stands Zagreb; lively, proud, strong, defiant, like when freedom sparks battle. Who wouldn't cry: O glory, glory to you, Zagreb - my glorious city!... Those are the famous verses of August Šenoa (Zagreb, 1838 - Zagreb, 1881), the "most Zagrebian" Croatian writer who dedicated many of his works to his beloved hometown, Zagreb. Over the course of his life in Zagreb, he conducted many duties - he was the city notary, city senator, director and drama director in the Croatian National Theatre, and he also edited the socialliterary magazine "Vijenac". His best-known historical novels, "Zlatarovo zlato", "Čuvaj se senjske ruke", "Seljačka buna", "Diogenes" and "Kletva", are still mandatory reading for Croatian schoolchildren. Due to that, it is no wonder the people of Zagreb have decided to thank him by placing a sculpture of him in the very heart of the city, on the corner of Vlaška and Branjuga Street. According to the design of sculptor Marija Ujević Galetović, Šenoa is leaned up against a pole, where you can read the above-mentioned text by this great writer. 

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u o y 4 s tip

following e h t n o t u o Don't miss May, and June 2014 pril, events in A

Communication Days

Zagreb Tourfilm Festival The third international festival of tourism films, Zagreb Tourfilm Festival, will be held in Zagreb from June 4 to 6. At that time, you will be able to enjoy the best tourism films of the world, which show various types of tourist activities: from promoting travel destinations, adventurist activities, extreme sports, nautical tourism, hotels and resorts, people, culture, and traditions, to religious, rural tourism, and many other special forms. At the festival, films will be shown in four categories: commercials up to 2 min. in length, films up to 7 min. and up to 60 min., and documentaries of up to 60 min. A round table will be held at the festival on the topic of how to promote a destination properly, and how to make a good tourism film/report.

There will also be various workshops, the promotion of travel books, contests for visitors, thematic exhibitions, etc., and an excursion will be organized to one of the surrounding towns for the foreign guests. This year, the festival will be held in the Mimara Museum, and admission to all events and projections is free of charge. www.zagreb-tourfilm.com

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The national advertising festival "Communication Days" will be held from May 15 to 18, 2014 at the Lone Hotel in Rovinj. At this year's Days, emphasis will be placed on the participants gaining practical knowledge and skills, along with the participation of leading global creative people and marketing experts. They will all give insight into the newest trends in the advertising world and inspire them with their ideas. The morning portion of the conference will be filled with lectures, while the afternoon program will offer various activities, such the presentation of the Effie finalists and the new program of interactive workshops "Best of HOWtoWOW". Some of the lecturers, leading market experts, include Kris Hoet, the award-winning director for digital media from the "Duval Guillaume Modem" creative agency from Antwerp, Georges MohammedCherif, founder and creative director of the French "Buzzman" agency, and Mark Truss, Director of Brand Intelligence for the "JWT" agency from New York. Amongst other things, they will speak about creating and communicating brands in various digital media, new findings of neuroscientific research in the field of marketing communications and the role of emotions and the subconscious mind on making decisions. http://dk2014.nivas.hr

UHPA specialization in April With the aim of advancing the competitiveness of its members and raising the quality of services offered, the Association of Croatian Travel Agencies (UHPA), has continued with its specialization project in special areas, markets, and on special topics. For that reason, representatives of UHPA will hold a workshop on April 9 and 10, 2014 in Tuheljske toplice to introduce members to the codes of ethics and criteria for a total of eight specializations: school trips, PCO, adventure tourism, rent-a-car, private accommodations, DMK, special markets, and gourmet tourism. According to the planned schedule, a general lecture will be held the first day for members who have signed up for specializations, and the second day is reserved for individual expert lectures for each specialization. www.uhpa.hr

PROMO

Z

---------------------- greets bikers with special offers

agreb's well-known Hotel International is located in the business center of town, near ministries and the headquarters of many large companies. Although it has been recognized as a business hotel, or the home away from home for numerous business guests travelling through town, as well as the host for many business gatherings, congresses, and conferences, recently it has become more and more

popular amongst bikers. Bikers are attracted to the hotel for its good location and parking garage. The hotel employees also quickly recognized the needs of their guests and offered them a free upgrade to Superior rooms, and came up with a popular "biker's menu" - handmade hamburgers with superb seasonal ingredients, fries, and a selection of excellent beers. Also, if necessary, the hotel staff is available to organize servicing, or even organizing transport and repairing

motorcycles in the nearby licensed bike repair shop. Bikers are a synonym for freedom and frequent road adventures.

However, despite great desires, that freedom must be "earned" and so, the hotel staff is not at all surprised when participants of conferences and business congresses take off their suits and ties at the end of the day and sit on their bikes to head off on new, exciting road adventures. ď ś

Hotel International, Miramarska 24, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, tel: +385 1 6108 800, hotel@hotel-international.hr, www.hotel-international.hr April / May 2014.

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Events

CROATIAN ZAGORJE

The tastes and scents of

Zagorje in the spring Prepared by: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: archive of Krapina-Zagorje County Tourist Board, archive of Donja Stubica Tourist Board, Martin Turk and Robert Kunštek

When people think of Zagorje, the first things that come to minds are preserved nature and tame green hills, which hide many springs of medicinal water. However, over the past few years, this region in northwestern Croatia has been visited more and more by tourists for its unique food experiences and festivals that rely on tradition.

Babičini kolači (Grandma's Cakes), The Ceremony of the Iris, and the Fair of Flowers from Grandma's Garden are just some of the events that shouldn't be missed this spring...

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Photo: Martin Turk

Grandma's Cakes Over the past few years, the "BabiÄ?ini kolaÄ?i" (Grandma's Cakes) festival has attracted great interest amongst visitors.

However, this event has also awoken the competitive spirit amongst grandmothers in Zagorje in the preparation of authentic desserts according to recipes that they have inherited from their mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers.

Grandmothers from all parts of the Krapina-Zagorje Country are competing for the title this year, and the winner is the one whose cake gets the most points for authentic recipe and ingredients, as well as for taste and creative presentation.

Every detail the eye can see, and the taste buds can taste is an important element in the points awarded by the evaluation committee, which announces the winner. Besides fighting for one of the three winning places, the grandmothers also compete for the "Izvorno zagorsko" (Authentic Zagorje) visual impression.

Since the competition is held every year in the town of last year's winner, this year it will be in Hum na Sutli on Saturday, April 26, 2014. Traditionally, after the festival and competition, book is published with all the recipes from the competitor's cakes. Useful, isn't it? Another interesting fact is that the presented cakes, prepared using traditional methods and the original recipes of grandmothers from Zagorje, can be tried at the festival.

The "Flowers from Grandmother's Garden" Fair Would you be able to recognize zinnias, nasturtiums, asters, knapweeds, snapdragons, or lilies? How about the lilac, kerria, hydrangea, or mahonia?

In any case, you will have the unique chance to learn and recall the look of these traditional flowers and shrubs from Zagorje, but also their powerful scents, on Sunday April 27, 2014 in Donja Stubica.

Visit this educational touristic flower

Photos: every year, the grandmothers of Zagorje compete in making desserts, prepared using traditional methods (left); you can see the traditional flowers and shrubs of Zagorje at the Flowers from Grandmother's Garden fair (top and bottom right).

tip: Make sure you are in Hum na Sutli on Saturday, April 26, to see the grandmothers compete in preparing cakes. And don't forget to try some of the tasty cakes!

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CROATIAN ZAGORJE

Photo: Robert KunĹĄtek

Events

Photos: spindle with wound flax (left); irises have a festival in their honor in Zagorje (top right); concerts of classical music are held at the Ceremony of the Irises (bottom right).

tip: Circle May 17 in your calendar and come to Donja Stubica.

Enjoy the concerts, floral stories of the iris, and the taste of traditional dishes.

festival of Zagorje's traditional garden culture, where interesting workshops and lectures on traditional flowers will be held, and many kinds of seedlings will also be available. Treat yourself to a sweet-smelling spring in Zagorje!

From flax and hemp to cloth and handkerchiefs Another completely different kind of festival, which will teach you about the tradition, culture, and customs of Zagorje in regards to the sowing, harvesting, and processing of flax, the weaving, tailoring, sewing, embroidering, and crocheting, will be held for the first time this year, on Saturday, May 10, 2014 in Donja Stubica. A fashion show with traditional and modern models will be held at this story-telling festival, which will take you back to the past of this tame green area of Croatia. Appease your curiosity and come...

The Ceremony of the Iris Concerts of classical music, romantic floral dances, the taste of traditional

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dishes and natural juices... they are just a part of this floral story, infused with the scents, tastes, and sounds of Zagorje in the spring, which will await you on Saturday, May 17, 2014 in the Croatian Iris Garden in Donja Stubica. Come and walk through the unique garden, with irises from different regions of Croatia, but also from all over the world. ď ś

According to legend, irises grow where rainbows touched the earth, in another color every time.

So, in the Croatian Iris Garden, there is a rainbow iris path, but also a path of irises dedicated to all those who helped the story of this traditional flower from the gardens of Zagorje come alive in this garden and become a reality.

Photo: Martin Turk

Zagorje - A fairy tale at hand Tourist Board of Krapina-zagorje County Krambergerova 1 49000 Krapina, Croatia tel: +385 49 233653 info@tzkzz.hr

www.tzkzz.hr

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VUKOVAR-SRIJEM COUNTY Photo: Damir Fabijanić (archive of Croatian National Tourist Board)

Explore Croatia

A combination of fantastic experiences Dense forests, clean rivers and endless fields... In that combination of natural beauty, you will find Slavonia and Srijem, on the far east of Croatia.

But that is just part of the diversity from the wide range that the incredibly friendly hosts will await you with...

Photo: fields of grain are a common scene you will come across in this county (top).

Prepared by: Vukovar-Srijem County Tourist Board and Željka Kunštek Photos: archive of Vukovar-Srijem County Tourist Board, Dražen Bota, archive of Ilok cellars and Damir Fabijanić (archive of Croatian National Tourist Board)

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F

rom Spačva, the largest intact native forest of Slavonian red oak, to the magical centuriesold trees in the Južno Radiševo forest, for centuries, there has been an unbreakable bond between nature and man. Slavonian red oak has been a sign of life next to the woods, and its beauty and quality are admired by experts who say this tree grows for a hundred years, lives for a hundred years, and dies for a hundred years. If you step into these Slavonian forests, you might be able to see some of the rare protected species that are hidden by these dense canopies, such as the great capricorn

beetle, stag beetle, white-tailed eagle, collared flycatcher, the middle spotted woodpecker, the black stork...

The forested area of the Spačva basin is rich in waterways, of which the most beautiful are definitely Virovi, a protected site and paradise for fans of untouched nature. They are a little under two kilometers long, and about sixty meters wide, and thanks to groundwater, they have never dried out.

A region with five rivers This region is special for many other things. It has a total of five rivers running

tip: In Bošnjaci, visit the Forestry Museum, and don't miss out on taking the St. Katarina tourist boat along the Bosut and Spačva.

through it: the Danube, Sava, Bosut, Vuka, Biđ, and Spačva, and nature lovers will certainly be thrilled by the fact only in the preserved and picturesque landscape of Ilok, Croatia, can you see the Eastern Imperial Eagle. Besides that, a rare sample of the Gingko Biloba tree, which is often called "the living fossil", since all related species died out 200 million years ago, can be found in a park in Ilok. A rare type of lizard - the European copper skink - has also been found in the area, and near Ilok in Mohova, the only fossilized remains of a young wooly mammoth, more than ten thousand years old.

But, there's more. One of the two pairs of Saker Falcons living in Croatia can be found in the Tordinci Municipality.

This highly desirable hunting falcon reaches the price of a staggering ten thousand euro on the black market!

Don't be surprised if you see whitetailed eagles, which have wingspans of up to 2.5 meters for female birds. Truly a fascinating sight!

The semi-steppe regions are home to the Caspian whip snake, one of the longest snakes in Europe, and recently, a rare type of fish from the Acipenseriformes order, was caught in the Danube, and it is assumed that the fish was last seen in Croatia 130 years ago.

The St. Katarina tourist catamaran, which holds 30 passengers, flows along the Bosut and Spačva, and will take you on panoramic excursions: tour the natural beauty, zero-category sacral buildings, and the country estates. You can also rent boats, which seat five people, or bicycles.

Photos: sailing on the St. Katarina catamaran (top); you can play golf on Principovac in Ilok (middle left); a Saker falcon (middle right); vineyards alongside the Ilok wine road (bottom).

Something for everyone The Forestry Museum in Bošnjaci will reveal what the Slavonian forests have in store for you, after which you should head over to the municipality of Nijemci, where a bird watching post has been placed. After that, board the St. Katarina tourist boat, and sail down the Bosut and Spačva while observing the diversity of the animal kingdom, explore the untouched nature, and try to find out which way the Bosut flows.

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Explore Croatia

VUKOVAR-SRIJEM COUNTY

Slavonia is the region in Croatia most known for eating, especially meat. It is interesting that up until the mid-20th century, meat was only eaten twice a week: on Thursday and Sunday.

In the past, villagers had access to sugar in small amounts, so they made cakes that were naturally sweetened, such as strudel with sweet pumpkin, sugar beet, or seasonal fruit, gingerbread from sugar beet honey, simple cakes with plum jam, and a special specialty was sugar-free compote (made with prunes or dried apples and pears).

Did you know that kulen, kulenova seka and sausages are actually raw, dried meat, and that pork rinds and pork lard are used to make fantastic cakes such as čvarkara and salenjaci?

Photos: Slavonian kulen (left); the Vukovar-Srijem County is famous for its rich offer of food and wine (top); walnut roll (bottom).

tip: Try the kulen in the kulen tasting center in Bošnjaci, enjoy the plentiful fruit products on the thematic fruit trail, try fish stew and fresh water fish delicacies in Ilok...

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Explore Srijem, the area between the Sava and Danube, on bike on the Danube and Srijem bicycle trails, or play golf at Principovac in Ilok. Enjoy the shade of the oaks while riding in electrical cars through the Kunjevci woods near Vinkovci, or row a kayak down the powerful Danube. Using the strength of a sultan, take a walk down the European "Sultan's hiking trail". Test your skills and play paintball in Cerna and Novo Selo near Vinkovci.

If you visit in the summer, take a swim in the Danube and rest under the warm Slavonian sun on the city beaches in Vukovar and Ilok. If you visit in the colder part of the year, you can have a swim in the indoor pool in Vinkovci. Take a walk through the fields and vineyards and the Liska hiking trail to the highest peak, of the same name, in the Vukovar-Srijem County.

Hunters can enjoy hunting wild game, and fishermen fishing in five rivers. Get to know the forest and camp under the oak canopy in Spačva.

A tradition of food culture By now you must be hungry. But don't worry, you're in the right place for superb food delights, which are infused with a long, rich tradition in this area.

The cuisine of eastern Croatia has been seasoned by natives and newcomers, conquerors and neighbors. Here you will first be enraptured by the scent, and then by the taste and simple dishes on the country plates, just like city folk used to enjoy. Try the aristocratic dishes, which impart the gourmet flair of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The extremely friendly and open hosts, for which Slavonia has always been

Photo: Dražen Bota

Photo: Dražen Bota

Taste Golden Croatia Vukovar-Srijem County Tourist Board, Glagoljaška 27, 32100 Vinkovci, Croatia tel: +385 (0)32 338425, tel/fax: +385 (0)32 344034, mob: +385 (0)98 269034, e-mail: turisticka-zajednica@vk.t-com.hr

www.visitvukovar-srijem.com April / May 2014.

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Photo archive: Atlas d.d.

VUKOVAR-SRIJEM COUNTY

Photo archive: Atlas d.d.

Explore Croatia

tip: Tour the Old cellars, the greatest attraction in the center of Ilok, and definitely try wine by the winemakers of Ilok and Vukovar.

Photos: last September, representatives of Austria tour operators visited Ilok, toured Ilok cellars and enjoyed the rich offer of food and drink of this part of Croatia (top left and right); Stari podrumi in Ilok (bottom).

In late September of last year, as part of a study trip organized by the Atlas travel agency, twenty representatives of Austrian agencies, tour operators, and bus companies visited Srijem. The region made a powerful impact on them, and as they emphasized, they were especially delighted by the landscape, vineyards, friendly hosts, Ilok cellars, the Principovac country estate and the rich offer of food and drinks in the region. Austrian tourists find Srijem interesting for its vicinity, good connections, and similar culture and history.

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famous, will offer you several courses: pork roasted on a spit, handmade pasta with cheese and pork rinds, homemade sourdough bread, kulen, and spicy sausages made from native Slavonian ‘fajfer' pigs. Here you will also find Danubian "male" specialties such as fish or meat stew (fiš paprika or čobanac), dried carp, or roasted over an open fire, and everything is well seasoned with domestic ground paprika. Before you know it, you'll have a famous Ilok ćevap (a kind of kebab) and Hungarian sauce and sweet cornbread with dark plum jam.

Not to mention dishes such as chicken soup with homemade pasta or listarići (donuts), masnica (strudel), and kirbaski kolači (festival cookies). However, before you sit down to enjoy the plentiful offerings of Slavonian tables, your hosts will give you the opportunity to toast with a glass of aromatic spirits as an appetizer. Wine from the gentle slopes of Fruška gora will accompany you on your gourmet trip.

Traminac is the key resource As far as the wine story of Slavonia, the best way to get to know it is to head to the hills of the Srijem vineyards that slope down towards the Danube. They are located in the easternmost part of the Vukovar-Srijem County and Croatia, on the south and southwest slopes of Fruška gora, with Ilok at their center, so they often call it the Ilok winery. Thanks to a large number of sunny days, an ideal altitude and soil, grapevines bear high quality fruit in this area, a basic precondition for producing superb wines that Ilok sends not only throughout Croatia, but to the rest of Europe and beyond, too.

Since the time the first grapevine was planted by the Romans back in the 3rd century, the vineyards of Srijem have constantly expanded and today they spread out over an area of about 1500 hectares. Although Graševina is the most widespread sort, Traminac is the one

The "Ilok Wine Road", which passes through the streets of villages and ends in the picturesque vineyards of the Vukovo and Principovac viewpoints.

Photo: Principovac country estate.

The 1800-year long uninterrupted tradition of wine production in Ilok dates back to ancient Rome. In the 3rd century, the Roman emperor Probus introduced new high quality sorts of wine to the area, and even Turks, despite their religious beliefs that prohibit the consumption of alcohol, traded Ilok wine. In the 17th century, the noble Odeschalchi family offered the first bottled wine in Europe from their cellars, which became popular at English court from the 19th century. The fact that Traminac from Ilok was served at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II shows how much the British appreciate the wine of this area. The quality of the wine has also been confirmed by the numerous gold medals awarded to Ilok Traminac over the past few years at the most prestigious awards ceremonies from London, Paris, and Madrid to California, Israel, and Canada.

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Explore Croatia

VUKOVAR-SRIJEM COUNTY

Photos: Ilok Traminac made this area famous, and is the best quality in Croatia, but also abroad (top left); Slavonians are famous for protecting their rich heritage (top right); it would be a sin to leave the area without trying good wine (bottom right); the Eltz castle in Vukovar, which houses the Vukovar City Museum (bottom).

that has made this area famous, and it is the best in Croatia and beyond. From dry to sweet variations, it goes excellently with various dishes and desserts. In the vineyards of Srijem, they also grow Chardonnay, Rhine Riesling, Pinot, Pinot Grigio, Sylvaner... Although red sorts are less common, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Frankovka, which has roots in the areas of Srijem, Slavonia and Lower Austria, can be found.

The history of Vukovar in Eltz castle Besides its incredible nature, landscapes, and offer of food and wine, this county

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is a true treasury of cultural attractions.

The one that has attracted the most attention recently is the Vukovar City Museum, located in Eltz castle, where a new permanent exhibition was opened in January 2014. Thematic blocks are spread over its three and a half thousand square meters amongst 17 rooms. Here you will discover many interesting facts from the archeological past of the Vukovar area and the historical development of Vukovar, get to know the ethnographic heritage and traditional culture, have a look at a multimedia presentation on the Homeland War, and a chronology of the war, and find out a lot about Vukovar today. ď ś

Experience spring in Srijem Awaken your desires, renew their power!

Vukovar-Srijem County Tourist Board, Glagoljaška 27, 32100 Vinkovci, Croatia tel: +385 (0)32 338425, tel/fax: +385 (0)32 344034, mob: +385 (0)98 269034, e-mail: turisticka-zajednica@vk.t-com.hr

www.visitvukovar-srijem.com April / May 2014.

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Events

VINKOVCI

Roman Days

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on ci rt ov Be nk o: av f Vi d) ot sl o r Ph eko ive Boa h rc ist (a our T

tip: Gather up your courage and face the gladiators at the Roman Days in Vinkovci, on May 23 and 24!

Vj

When you were a child, did you enjoy stories about gladiators, and now, when new movies with gladiator battles come to the silver screen, you impatiently wait to see them? Were Ancient Rome and the lives of Roman emperors something you listened about carefully at school? Have you always wondered what kinds of hairstyles the Roman ladies wore, and what their grooming habits were, and juggling is something you've always wanted to try, but never had the chance to? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you must come to Vinkovci on May 23 and 24, 2014!

Vj ek o ve sla P To o v B h o ur f V e t ist in rto o: Bo kov n ar ci d) hi

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(a

"Roman Days" will be held in the oldest European city, the birthplace of two Roman emperors, Valentinian I and Valens, at that time. As its name says, the festival has been inspired by the Roman Ages, and brings together many events: from pottery workshops for children and "The Little Gladiator School" activity center to a tournament in Roman sports, a presentation of gladiator skills, and a lecture on the powerful Roman empire. It will also be an opportunity to see the hairstyles worn by the women of Rome, and to try juggling, and making the props within the interactive circus workshop. In the city's central park, at the fair of Roman products, you will be able to buy Roman wooden children's toys, plaques with Latin sayings, Roman wine, etc., along with tasty snacks.

For more information: www.tz-vinkovci.hr

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Experience Croatia

CRIKVENICA RIVIERA

Spring on the Crikvenica Rivera If you have only thought of the Crikvenica Riviera when you think of summer, the sea, sun, and fantastic fishermen's and other festivals, it's time to discover it in spring, when it is especially active and playful, and filled with the delicious aromas of old, but not forgotten, delicacies.

Photos: in spring, the Crikvenica Riviera is perfect for walking and cycling, and the CrikvenicaVinodolski area has a total of seven hiking trails and walking paths (top left and right).

Written by: Željka Kunštek Photos: archive of Crikvenica Tourist Board

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he arrival of the sun and warm days, and the scent of spring will lure you outdoor, wherever you are. That's a fact. However, it isn't the same experience if you walk or ride a bike through the loud and bustling streets of the metropolis or along a seaside promenade, where your attention is distracted by only a fishing boat on the horizon, or by a path through aromatic Mediterranean forests. You will find the latter, but also much more, at the Crikvenica Riviera, and its picturesque tourist havens: Crikvenica, Dramalj, Jadranovo, and Selce.

Promenades and indescribable views Seven intertwining hiking trails and walking paths await you at the CrikvenicaVinodolski Riviera, each with their own 84

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name, and story: the Trail of the Waves, the Karst and Sage Trail, the Cliff Trail, the Green Trail, the Heavenly Trail, the Roman Trail, and the Degenia Trail. Some will take you only along the coast, some pass by viewpoints and chapels, and some will encourage you to stop on mountain meadows and rest with the magnificent view of the Kvarner islands.

If you get caught up in the romance, which is not unusual at all in this area, take a partner for a walk down the Love Path. It is doubtlessly one of the most beautiful in the Crikvenica area, located near the city, and it was named for the fact that it is commonly visited by infatuated couples. It is about eight kilometers long, and passes by many interesting sites: the Badanj fortress dating back to Late Antiquity, the former source of drinking water, the viewpoint with a view of Tribalj...

tip: Take a walk down the Green Trail, cast a look at the sea, Kvarner islands, and Velebit.

Recreational cyclists, as well as those who like to train a bit more seriously, can choose from several trails in the Crikvenica-Vinodolski area: the Blue Trail, Green Trail, Brown Trail, Carmine Trail - Lily Route, Viola Trail, or the Yellow Trail - Viewpoint Route.

From climbing to fishing If you like a bit more adrenaline, you can find it at the Adrenalin Park in Crikvenica, which offers a larch trail for climbing, a cage ball cage, a Sumo ring and Aerotrim-spinroller. Here you can also practice how to get from tree to tree using various passages, platforms, suspension bridges, etc. If you are more into water sports, head down to Crikvenica's beaches and take your pick from the wide range of offerings: waterskiing, wakeboarding, parachuting, etc.

If you prefer land, play mini-golf, badminton, basketball, or tennis on one of the courses or courts. Fishermen will also have a great time here, just like those who are just starting out with this trade. The hosts will gladly take you fishing, and with fish, song, and a glass of good wine, they will teach you the skills of one of the oldest trades in the world.

From a bird's eye view Over the course of the entire year, the Crikvenica Riviera is visited by divers due to its interesting and diverse underwater world. While some admire the world under the sea, others explore it from a bird's eye view. Did you know that the Vinodol Valley in the backwoods of Crikvenica is one of the most visited places for flying in Croatia? Due to the view of the sea and the Kvarner Bay, due to...Find out for yourself. And while exploring this Riviera, board an excursion boat and sail to Rab, Krk, or Košljun. Excursions to Plitvice Lakes, Brijuni, Krka, Risnjak, and North Velebit are also organized, and it is quick and easy to visit Venice from this Riviera, as well. Be it on your own, be it organized by an agency.

Photos: the Love Path (top); the Mediterranean Love Labyrinth (top middle); sailors also love Crikvenica (bottom middle); you can also have a look at the Riviera from a bird's eye view (bottom left); Crikvenica's undersea world is attractive for divers from all over the world (bottom right).

The Mediterranean Love Labyrinth, shaped completely of bay leaf bushes, is located in Crikvenica. It is said to grant wishes, rejuvenate, beautify, release people from addictions and greed, boost love, and encourage creativity.

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Experience Croatia

CRIKVENICA RIVIERA tip: Visit the Crikvenica Riviera on May 31 and June 1, for the Cherry Festival, and try the desserts inspired by this fruit.

greens), "Slani vinćoli na svetojelenski" (St. Jelena anchovies), "Brudet s palentom na seljački" (home-style stew with polenta) and "Prežganice z baškoton na jakovarski" (cream soup).

They will then continue to pamper your taste buds with Frankopan cake, and offer you "Selački puhanci" (fritters). All of the recipes for these native dishes have been brought together in the "Kuharica našeh non" booklet (Our Grandmother's Cookbook), a kind of a gourmet time machine, available in Croatian and German.

Gourmet events Photos: blue fish dishes are the basis of Crikvenica's cuisine (top left); a cherry and cheese cake (top right); fishermen's festivals are common in the Crikvenica area (bottom left); brudet (stew) with polenta (bottom right).

The "Blue Fish Road" is on the Crikvenica Riviera, with five hotel and twenty independent restaurants, which offer creative, healthy, and tasty blue fish dishes on their menus daily.

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According to grandma's recipes Whichever form of active vacation you decide on while visiting this Riviera, known far and wide for its pleasant and mild Mediterranean climate, don't forget to breathe deeply. There is a reason Crikvenica was named the exclusive climate spa of the Adriatic and Mediterranean early last century.

However, besides breathing in the fresh air, you will also be able to inhale the aromas of the specialties of Primorje cuisine, one of the most creative in Croatia. It is based on fish, seafood, vegetables, olive oil, natural aromatic herbs, and other healthy ingredient.

The people of Primorje, as great hosts, will offer you the standard seafood, but also meat dishes, prepared in the most diverse ways. However, known for being gourmets, they will also recommend that you try some native dishes such as "Crikveničke rupice" (fried fish with

Considering the rich gastronomic tradition of the area, the Crikvenica Riviera celebrates various gourmet events throughout the year. Some of the upcoming events include a gourmet promotion of traditional Easter bread in Crikvenica and Selce on April 18 and 19, 2014, followed by the Asparagus Frittata, on April 26, 2014. May will be marked by delicious fruity aromas and flavors, so the 4th Strawberry Festival will be held in Selce on the 17th and 18th of May, while Crikvenica and the rest of the Riviera will smell of cherries on May 31 and June 1, since the 4th Cherry Festival will be held then. Both events will stimulate the imagination and creativity of cooks and bakers, who will greet guests with various dishes and desserts inspired by this tasty fruit. The week of May 23 to 30 will be in the sign of blue fish, and earlier in the month, from the 1st to the 3rd, the Festival of Žlahtina and Vinodol Wines will be held. What are you waiting for?! 

Trg Stjepana Radića 1c, 51260 Crikvenica, Croatia, tel: +385 51 784101, e-mail: info@tzg-crikvenice.hr

www.rivieracrikvenica.com April / May 2014.

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Interesting facts

CRIKVENICA

Ja

dr

an Pho d. to d. a Cr rch ik ve ive: ni ca

Once a monastery, now a hotel

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Did you know that the name of the city of Crikvenica comes from the word "crikva", or crkva (church)? Way back in 1412, Prince Nikola Frankopan IV, who is considered to be the founding father of Crikvenica, had a monastery built for the monks of the order of St. Paul the Hermit at the mouth of the DubraÄ?ica creek at the sea, next to the medieval church. The deed of gift by which he gave the monastery to the Paulites is also the oldest written record of the name of Crikvenica, so it is no wonder Crikvenica's feast day is held that day, August 14. In the past, the monastery building linked the surrounding fishing villages and became the hub of public and cultural life, and in recent times, the historical building has housed the KaĹĄtel Hotel. Many tourists and visitors to this Kvarner city find their place to rest and relax there today.

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PROMO

Jadran Crikvenica Hotels

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n oasis of peace, beauty, diversity, and aromas, which will lull you to sleep with lavender, and awaken you with rosemary...

That is the Crikvenica Riviera, where, in its center, surrounded by greenery, you will be awaited by eight hotels, a tourist resort, and camp, friendly staff, and more than 2500 beds ready for your arrival!

They are divided amongst the Hotel Kaštel, Hotel Esplanade, Hotel Omorika, Hotel Zagreb, Hotel International, the Hotel and cabins of Ad Turres, the Kačjak

tourist resort, the Slaven Hotel and cabins, the Varaždin hotel, and Selce camp.

Diverse offer The large offer of excursions for everyone's taste, cultural sites that will take you back to the time of Pavlin and Frankopan, and the scents and tastes of the Mediterranean for the most refined taste buds... Jadran d.d. is all that with its rich, 50-year-long tradition in tourism, which it is celebrating this year with a bunch of various festivals.

Take a walk down the 15 kilometer long coast, take up at least one of the many sports activities, rest and relax on a beach with a blue flag, the sign of superb quality... Come and discover the attractions and interesting features of this riviera, dive into the sea and get to know the magical world of the depths of the sea, have fun at one of the many festivals and events throughout the year... and don't forget to come back again because we are here - for you, and looking forward to your arrival! 

Jadran Crikvenica Hotels, 51260 Crikvenica, Croatia, tel: +385 51 241970, tel: +385 51 455560 (Sales and marketing department), fax: +385 51 241975, e-mail: marketing@jadran-crikvenica.hr, www.jadran-crikvenica.hr April / May 2014.

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Tourism product

BIRDWATCHING

Photo: Whiskered Tern (lat.

Chlidonias hybridus).

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Over the past few years, birdwatching has experienced a boom and become a favorite activity of more and more tourists, especially those from America and Western Europe, lead by the Spanish and British.

Vacation in bird paradise Written by: Sonja Mihajlović (www.icroatiatravel.com) ◆ Photos: Roman Martin (www.photoandtours.com)

Besides being relaxing and placing you in direct contact with nature, birdwatching often takes on a competitive spirit so bird buffs compete in recognizing birds based on their watching or sounds.

If you haven't enjoyed watching the fascinating world of birds yet, maybe it's time to start now...

Photo: Baillon's Crake (lat. Porzana pusilla).

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Tourism product

BIRDWATCHING

In places like Vransko Lake or the Neretva it is often possible to see rarities for this regions, for example, the Terek Sandpiper (lat. Xenus cinereus) or Baillon's Crake (lat. Porzana pusilla).

Ornithologists estimate that only four or five pairs of Baillon's Crakes, a very rare type of bird in Europe, nest in Croatia. In Europe, they live mostly in the Ukraine, while globally, in eastern Africa, Madagascar, and New Zealand.

Photos: wild ducks in the Lonjsko polje Nature Park, the largest protected marshland in Croatia, but also in the entire Danube basin (top left); Vransko Lake is one of the best-known locations for birdwatching in Croatia (top right); the Western Yellow Wagtail (middle left); the Blue Rock Thrush (middle right); ringing a Eurasian Jay (bottom left); a Purple Heron in Lonjsko polje (bottom right).

C

roatia can boast one of the most abundant bird populations in Europe, which in numbers looks like this: a total of 400 species of birds have been registered, of which 235 are nesters, while 80 types of nesters in Croatia are endangered in Europe. In Croatia you will come across many largearea preserved habitats, and the bestknown locations for bird-watching are five Ramsar sites: Kopački rit, Crna Mlaka, the Neretva River delta, Lonja Field, and Vransko Lake.

Visits to various habitats Organized bird watching excursions in Croatia include visits to various habitats: from marsh areas surrounding the Sava, Drava, and Danube rivers, through the forests and plateaus, all the way

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to the islands and the coastal region.

Carp ponds that have replaced original marshlands are also an interesting area, and are the final oasis for water birds such as the Ferruginous Duck (lat. Aythya nyroca), Black stork (lat.

Ciconia nigra) and the White-Tailed Sea Eagle (lat. Haliaeetus albicilla). The guides continually collaborate with environmentalists and biologists so that

Čigoč, the first European stork village, is located in the Lonjsko polje Nature Park. From spring to late summer, there are more white storks (lat. Ciconia ciconia) than people in the village, and nearly every house has a stork's nest.

tip: From spring to late summer visit Čigoč, the first European stork village, and enjoy the view of these interesting birds that nest on the rooftops of houses.

Did you know that the Savica Ornithological Reserve is located near the center of Zagreb, and that a total of nine types of gulls were recorded on the Jakuševac land fill, including the Ring-billed gull (lat. Larus delawarensis)?

According to records from ringed birds, in the winter, gulls from all of Europe feed on Jakuševac: from Russia and Finland to Great Britain, Hungary, and Austria.

the birds are not disturbed by the passing through the habitat, and all tours are lead by ornithologists and bird watchers. Most tours include a light walk, with stops for listening to and watching birds.

The most interesting species Some of the most interesting birds are the Ferruginous Duck (lat. Aythya nyroca), which nests in Croatia, and during the autumn migration, thousands can be seen. Near the offshore islands Scopoli's Shearwater (lat. Calonectris diomedea), Yelkouan shearwater (lat.

Puffinus yelkouan), Audouin's gull (lat.

Larus audouinii) and Eleonora's Falcon (lat. Falco eleonore) can be seen. In the coastal region, you will be greeted by the Rock Partridge, (lat. Alectoris graeca), and near Biokovo and Paklenica by the Rock

Nuthatch (lat. Sitta neumayer) and the Blue Rock Thrush (lat. Monticola solitarius).

The Adriatic coast is also home to one of the strongest populations of Yellowlegged Gulls (lat. Larus michahellis) and the Mediterranean subtype of the Shag (lat. Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii).

During the night is also possible to hear Eagle Owls (lat. Bubo bubo). 

Many types of birds live in Maksimir, located near the center of Zagreb. They include the Grey Heron (lat. Ardea cinerea), nearly tamed due to the large number of visitors to the park, and they can be seen from close range, at several meters distance.

Photos: a stork keeping its nest (top left); storks can be seen every year from spring to late summer on nearly every roof in Čigoč, in the Sisak-Moslavina County (top middle); a just-hatched Whiskered Tern (top right); a Black-headed gull (bottom left); ringing herons and blackheaded gulls in Kopački rit, a marshland area in Baranja, in northeastern Croatia (bottom middle); a Common Kingfisher (bottom right).

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UNESCO

TROGIR

Unique for its preserved condition Photo: a panorama of Trogir (left); Ćipiko palace (right).

Prepared by: Željka Kunštek Photos: archive of Trogir Tourist Board

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rogir is one of those cities that you truly must explore and for which you need to take time.

You will assure yourself of that after the first minute you spend in this city in central Dalmatia, on the Adriatic coast. Trogir is mostly located on a little island that is connected to the mainland

with a bridge. Greek colonialists from the island of Vis, who established the island community in the 3rd century B.C., defined its appearance, recognizable for its orthogonal street plan. Leaders who later governed continued to embellish various buildings and fortresses, Romanesque churches and Renaissance

Due to its extremely well preserved condition of the old city center, UNESCO has protected Trogir, added to its list of World Heritage Sites and awarded it the status of the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic city in Central Europe.

The first public pharmacy in Croatia was opened in Trogir way back in 1271. Dubrovnik and Zagreb got their first pharmacies later.

and tower is the Glorijette, a monument built as a sign of gratitude to France.

Relief with a depiction of Kairos and Baroque buildings from Venetian times, which gives the city a special, romantic feel.

Fortress of the Court Official Although the Cathedral of St. Lawrence with the famous gates from 1240, a masterpiece of master Radovan, is considers to be the most important building in the city and the main example of Romanesque-Gothic art in Croatia, other examples of architecture will also vie for your attention here.

One of them is the Camerlengo fortress, named after the court official - treasurer who long ago, in agreement with the count, managed the finances. To a great degree, this fortress defines the city horizon, and makes it recognizable even from a bird's-eye view, which we saw for ourselves while landing a plane at the nearby airport. Today the fortress plays the role of a vantage points and summer stage and is the favorite backdrop for taking pictures of tourists, visitors to the city, and newlyweds. Nearby, a little further north is the tower of St. Mark, which currently houses the House of Dalmatian Music. Between the fortress

Near the cathedral, you will find the Ćipiko palace, created by the connection of Romanesque buildings, across from City Hall, which hails from the 15th century. You will often see both buildings on city postcards. As you head down to the coast, you will reach a preserved portion of the walls with a defense tower and the remnants of the city gate from the Renaissance.

On the city promenade, you will be greeted by the Lucić palace, the treasury and St. Dominik monastery. Drop by the city museum, located in the Garagnin-Fanfogna palace, and into the Pinakoteka, a collection of sacral art. The "Kairos" collection and the monastery of St. Nicholas, where the relief with the depiction of Kairos, the supreme moment, must also be added to your "must-visit" list.

When the time comes for the impressions to ‘settle in' and for you to take a break from all the walking, duck into one of the little streets and enjoy the aromas and flavors of Trogir in one of the many taverns. "Trogirska pašticada", and "Trogir rafijol" will probably be the first thing your hosts will recommend, although you won't be making a mistake if you decide to order fish, seafood, shellfish... 

Photos: St. Dominik's church (left); St. Sebastian's church with the city clock tower (middle); view of Trogir (right).

tip: Try to visit Trogir in the off-season, when the crowds of tourists are smaller, and when you will be able to enjoy freely exploring its streets and sights.

Trogir is linked by drawbridge to Čiovo, a city with more than 2700 hours of sun per year.

Here you will find beaches with hidden coves, the scents of Mediterranean vegetation, and many opportunities for an active holiday.

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Health Tourism

SAUNAS

Saunas combine all the basic natural elements: earth, water, air, and fire and are a unique technique that use all of the elements simultaneously. Today, you can enjoy its benefits in almost every high-class hotel, sports, or wellness center.

tip: Many wellness packages in several countries can be found at one place at Relaxino.com

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Discover the benefits of saunas Written by: Andreja Milas (www.relaxino.com) â—† Photos: fotolia

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Health Tourism

SAUNAS

tip: When going to the sauna, take two towels, as large as possible, and a bath robe.

An old Finnish saying says: "Whoever can walk, can use a sauna". In other words, there is no age limitation as far as using the sauna is concerned.

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he word "sauna" comes from the Finnish language and, loosely translated, means "sweaty bathroom". The practice of using saunas came from Asia to Europe more than two thousand years ago, and even Ancient Greeks enjoyed relaxing in closed areas, such as saunas, and in hot air, which they would then cool with cold water.

The Romans advanced this type of enjoyment by constructing luxurious, spacious baths. For example, Diocletian's spa could accommodate up to three thousand guests and they had all the necessary content: wardrobes, gymnasiums, pools with cold and hot water, dry and hot baths, lounges with floor heating, libraries, eating areas, etc.

After 1700, these places disappeared

due to the strong influence of the church.

Only those in Finland and northern Russia managed to "survive" under the name "baths", or "saunas". Although saunas have been used for a long time, the real Finnish sauna did not become popular until 1936, when Finnish athletes brought it to the Berlin Olympics as a required piece of equipment for keeping fit and physically able and for relaxation.

After the Second World War, saunas started being used in other European countries. Today, nearly every high class hotel, sports, or wellness center offers sauna facilities.

What is a sauna?

A sauna is a heated space for the primary purpose of relaxing the body, and it can

Sauna types There are several types of sauna, which we will briefly introduce you to.

into the skin, and positively affects tendons and joints.

FINNISH SAUNA

SALT SAUNA

There is a heater with rocks in one corner of this small room, and along the walls there are benches where the visitors sit.

The temperature in the sauna is between 80 and 100°C, and the air humidity is around 15 percent.

This sauna has an incredibly effective effect on the locomotor system and respiratory system. By rubbing natural salt on the skin, pores are opened, and they become better vascularized, healthy, glowing, and clean. Salt saunas are recommended as an introductory procedure for the other saunas, whose effect, after the natural salt peeling, is greater. The temperature ranges from 40 to 50°C and the air humidity is 80 percent.

FINNISH EXTREME SAUNA The high temperature in this sauna (80-100°C / 15-30% humidity) causes increased sweating and triggers the work of the heart and kidneys, which expel salt and toxins from the body. Visiting it strengthens the heart and aids digestion, and due to the dry climate, it does not cause problems.

STEAM SAUNA Steam moisturizes and cleanses airways, opens pores on the skin, and helps relax muscles.

INFRARED SAUNA This sauna is different from the Finnish sauna in that infrared heaters are used to heat it, and their heat penetrates deeper

be used to heat a dry or wet body. Dry saunas are spaces paneled with wood, and wet saunas have ceramic time.

They are predominantly windowless rooms, although in modern times, they have started constructing saunas with windows so that the enclosed feeling is lost. The sauna combines all the basic natural elements: earth, water, air, and fire, and represents a unique technique that uses all the elements simultaneously. The sauna process ends with a relaxing shower and rest.

Sauna benefits Saunas are used worldwide for improving health and relaxing and they have a beneficial effect on the general condition of people. Saunas strengthen

PROGRAMMED SAUNA This sauna has an air circulation program.

Thanks to intensive air circulation, the temperature is equally distributed throughout the sauna, and its effects on the body increase.

MUD SAUNA Therapeutic mud treatments increase circulation and vascularization, the metabolism, and the expulsion of harmful toxins from the body while strengthening the immunological system.

The temperature ranges from 45 to 55°C.

the heart and circulation, and thanks to greater blood flow, deep cleansing of the pores occurs during sweating.

So, regular visits to the sauna can help you get a fantastic complexion. Visits to the sauna also reenergize, and act as an anti-age treatment since it increases the ability of accepting oxygen. Sauna visits are also recommended for various skin conditions, such as acne, as well as for rehabilitation after injuries, conditions that have occurred due to chronic illnesses, rheumatic arthritis, sciatica, for hormonal and menstrual ailments... On the other hand, saunas should be avoided or used only with doctor's permission by those with issues with heart and blood circulation, the thyroid, stomach ulcers, fevers, acute infections, tumors, epilepsy, etc.

BIO SAUNA Natural herbal ingredients have a gentle effect on cleansing the skin and airways. The temperature ranges between 50 and 60°C. All the above types of saunas have a positive effect on the body and organism, and the type you choose is a personal thing. If you haven't had the habit of reaping the benefits of saunas so far, it's time to start. We are convinced that after your first visit, many of you will immediately understand why the sauna culture has a thousand-year long tradition. 

Rules of behavior in the sauna Flip-flops should be worn for walking through the entrance area, which must then be removed and left outside before entering the sauna. It is best to enter the sauna with two towels, as large as possible, and a bathrobe. While entering the sauna, one must be as quick to enter as possible so that the sauna temperature does not drop. In all saunas (except Turkish), people sit on towels, and they should also be put under our feet. For hygienic reasons, it is best to avoid direct body contact with the wood or ceramic tile. It is also important to know that we do not pour the water ourselves, but that the sauna master does that. After leaving the sauna, and before entering the cold pool, a shower must be taken.  April / May 2014.

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Croatia

ONLINE

A

websites and mobile applications

Click for useful information In this issue we continue to present web sites and mobile applications with a lot of useful and interesting travel information, which we believe will help you in travelling through and exploring Croatia...

WEB& Doggycheckin.com

Prepared by: Željka Kunštek

Doggycheckin.com is the first website designed for tourists who travel to Croatia with their dogs. The website offers all the information necessary for travelling with dogs, as well as the possibility of direct reservation of accommodations in "pet friendly" hotels and apartment suites via a partnership with Booking.com, all in one place. All the needs of traveling dog owners can be found on the website: from trip organization and available accommodations to reliable information on veterinary clinics, and places dogs are welcome, such as beaches, restaurants, cafés, National Parks, and Nature Parks. A list of pet stores and salons is also available on the site, as well as contacts for all kennel clubs, and a list of dog shows held in Croatia. The website is available in English, German, and Croatian. www.doggycheckin.com

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Landlord's Club The informative Landlord's Club (Klub iznajmljivača) is designed for all landlords of residential rooms, suites, vacation houses, and camps. Here, in one place, landlords can find simple explanations, easily accessible and precise information, which will help them boost their quality and educate them about their business. It consists of five main sections: Obligations, Useful, Beginners, Finances, and Links.

News from the tourism sector can also be found on the website, which is in Croatian. www.klub-iznajmljivaca.com

APPS Camping Croatia

Camping Croatia is the first Croatian camping application for iPhone and Android mobile devices, which camping buffs can use to find all the necessary information about camping in Croatia. It contains a detailed overview of 200 Croatian camps with their descriptions and contact information. The application enables simple and quick searching for the desired camp, and searching can be filtered according to name, destination, and type of accommodation. Also, it is possible to get a list of the best camps in the vicinity. This application, issued by the Croatian Camping Union, is available in English, German, Italian, Dutch, Slovenian, and Croatian.

Sibenik - Knin Region guide The Sibenik - Knin Region guide mobile application for iPhone and Android devices offers a lot of useful information on the Ĺ ibenikKnin County, a region located in the heart of the Adriatic, all in one place. Here you will find information on the main natural and cultural attractions in the region, activities that you can do, the most important local events, accommodations, beaches, islands, etc. The application also has a photo gallery, video content, and useful information such as the weather forecast, important telephone numbers, etc. The application is available in English.

Happy.hr The Happy Hour application for iPhone and Android devices will help you find information on sales and discounts on various services and products in your vicinity. Here you can tag your favorite cafĂŠs, restaurants, or hair salons, and regularly get notifications of their new offers.

The application is available in Croatian, and is entirely free to download and use.

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Croatia through philately

LIGHTHOUSES Presenting postage stamps

Pločica because they couldn't get to Korčula in time, while in one of the other rooms, one of the lightkeepers took his last breath.

The only link to civilization

Prepared by: Željka Kunštek

Due to its flat and low appearance, which from far away looks like a slate coming out of the sea, the island got the name Pločica (slate). For generations, lighthouse keepers lived on the island with their families, living off of fish they caught. The eastern coast of the island offers a view of a beautiful, unique sunset.

tip: The stamp was issued in 2013, and philatelists in Croatia can get the stamp in Croatian Post's postal offices.

Readers and philatelists from abroad can order the stamp via email: filatelija@posta.hr

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he island of Pločica, in the Korčula Channel, halfway from the island of Šćedra, that is, from Hvar and the island of Korčula, is home to a lighthouse from 1887. The island was given the name Pločica (slate) due to its low and flat appearance, which from far away looks like a piece of slate coming out of the sea. The front of the single-story lightkeeper's house has a lighthouse tower, and generations of people were born, lived and died in its 165 square meters. A baby was born in one room,

The lighthouse keepers that lived there fed their families with fish they caught and food they grew on the barren land surrounded by stone walls. Indigenous plants grow on the island, and the lighthouse keepers planted tamarisk, figs, and olives.

The sea surrounding Pločica was especially abundant, and according stories from the oldest fishermen in Korčula, nets were once pulled packed with scorpion fish and grouper.

When the south and western winds got stronger, the lighthouse keepers would hurry to the northern coast of the island where, in an inlet, they had a little dock and shelter for the boat. That boat was their only link to civilization, to Prigradica, a village located four nautical miles away on the northern coast of Korčula. Today, two comfortable apartments have been decorated for tourists in the lighthouse, and a total of 14 people can stay on the island at once.

Stamps named "Lighthouses" were issued by the Croatian Post with motives of the Pločica, Stončica, and Sućuraj lighthouses on September 26, 2013. They were issued in 100 thousand copies per motive, 48.28 mm x 29.82 mm in size, and a first day cover (FDC) was also issued. The author is Orsat Franković, a designer from Zagreb, and the photographer was Andrija Carli, from Split. 

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Valamar holiday in Dubrovnik

Special offer at the Panorama Zagreb Hotel

Are you longing for a holiday in Dubrovnik, and you don't know where to find the most affordable offer for one of Valamar's hotels?

By reserving a Dubrovnik package via www.valamar.com, you are guaranteed the lowest prices, and, if you are arriving in Dubrovnik by plane, we have arranged for transportation from the airport to the hotel and back, and a complimentary dinner on the day of your arrival for you.

Accommodations with breakfast also include a delicious dinner with many gourmet delicacies for the most refined taste buds.

Valamar Dubrovnik President 5*, Valamar Argosy 4*, or Valamar Club Dubrovnik 3*, the choice is yours.

The Panorama Zagreb Hotel, the tallest hotel in Croatia, has a total of 228 rooms and 51 suites, with a functional design, modern details, and one of its special features is the panoramic view of Zagreb and of Zagreb's Mount Medvednica. Enjoy the unique panoramic view of the Croatian metropolis, offered by all 19 floors of the hotel. As part of the special promotional campaign, special discounts are offered to those who reserve accommodations with breakfast. When reserving two nights, the discount is 20 percent, and 30 percent for three nights!

Find out more at: www.valamar.com/en/dubrovnikholidays rt e: Reso hiv arc tels & o t o Pho ar H am Val

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The perfect summer vacation in Solaris Are you looking for your place under the sun? Take advantage of a great opportunity and reserve your perfect summer vacation for 2014 at the Solaris Beach Resort, a top destination for a top vacation. This resort in the central Adriatic will greet you with thematic hotels and thematic beaches, the Aquapark, supreme food experiences, many beach clubs and bars, and a lot of other diverse content. Reserve your stay at Hotel Ivan****+ starting at 532 kuna, the Children's Hotel Andrija**** starting at 468 kuna, the Jure and Niko Beach Hotels**** starting at 418 kuna, and Jakov Beach Hotel*** starting at 380 kuna.

Find out more at: www.panorama-zagreb.com

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Croatian cities on Trivago's global hotel reputation ranking for 2014

Hörzu: Korčula is the most beautiful island in the world The renowned German publication Hörzu has declared Korčula the most beautiful island in the world. The island was chosen as the most beautiful after travel experts and readers of international travel magazines, such as National Geographic, Conde Nast Traveller and Travel and Leisure voted for their top choice. "To be on the throne when your competitors are the Maldives, Bora Bora, the Seychelles, Hawaii and many other heavenly destinations is very flattering. We are also happy to announce that we have better indicators for the upcoming tourist season", said the spokesperson for the City of Korčula Edita Drušković.

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Two Croatian cities, Dubrovnik and Split, were included on Trivago's list amongst the top ten of a hundred cities worldwide with the best hotels.

The quality, offer, and service of the hotels in these two cities placed them at 4th, and 10th place for this year. Dubrovnik was beat out by Sorrento, Italy, Dresden, Germany, and Gdansk, Poland, and the others in the top 10 include Krakow, Warsaw, Siem Reap, Budapest, and Chicago. It is interesting that the two most visited European metropolises, Paris and London, placed at the very bottom for hotel quality, at 92nd and 96th place. Trivago.com is one of the world's leading websites for searching for hotels worldwide and compiles a list of the top 100 cities with the best hotels every year. Trivago's list is based on more than 82 million evaluations of users gathered from more than 200 online booking websites for reserving accommodations. www.croatiaweek.com

Photo: Željka Kunštek

CROATIA

11 Reasons You Should Visit Croatia Immediately There are at least 11 reasons to visit Croatia immediately, which, together with other factors, officially make Croatia one of the prettiest countries in Croatia with its unique location, deep cultural roots, and unbelievable history that all together make it a must-see destination. That is how BuzzFeed, one of the strongest websites for news, entertainment and social networks in the world, which has more than one hundred million visitors annually, described Croatia in midMarch 2014. In the article "11 Reasons You Should Visit Croatia Immediately", published in the subsection BuzzFeed Travel, Lara Parker lists 11 reasons Croatia should be visited immediately, and the turquoise sea of the Croatian Adriatic was reason number one. The other reasons include history, food, culture, climate, nature, sailing, reasonable prices, options for nudists, lighthouses, and beautiful sunsets.

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Irresistible wellness spring in Hotel Olympia

One of the most popular offers of the favourite Zagreb hotel is the Wellness package, with the purpose to let you know that you too, are entitled to relax and rest and that time has no boundaries, once you start with the relaxation at the Sheraton Zagreb. The offer will provide you with the opportunity to spend a relaxing weekend, revitalising your body in saunas, swimming pools and with all the SPA treatments, massage and beauty treatments available at the hotel's Beauty Centre Murad. Spice your wellness journey with premium delicacies brought to you by renown chefs d'cuisine. The price of the package is 195â‚Ź per person.

Let yourself be pampered in the Olympia Life wellness center and Hotel Olympia in Vodice, where you will be greeted with attractive offers: 30% discount on all hair removal (with wax and sugar paste), and a 50% percent discount in the Spa relax tone.

For all those who are impatiently waiting for sunbathing and a glowing tan, there is the special Summertime beta carotene treatment. Along with a full body peel, this treatment also includes a relaxing full body massage with special oil with beta carotene, which increases potential tanning and makes skin ready for tanning or tanning beds.

Find out more at: www.hotel-sheratonzagreb.com/ hotel-special-offers

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Let Croatia Airlines bring you to Croatia, a land of more than 1000 sunny islands, breathtaking national parks, gorgeous beaches, a rich history, and numerous picture-perfect towns and cities.

Fly to Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Pula or Zadar - Croatian towns with characteristic architecture, explore their customs and festivals, enjoy their cuisine, climate, atmosphere and much more. Croatia Airlines offers you numerous flights to Croatia from all over the Europe at favorable prices. Carefully planned timetables, a modern fleet, and quality service guarantee your satisfaction.

Check Croatia Airlines' website www.croatiaairlines.com for special offers to Croatia and book your ticket.

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Gourmet Croatia

SAMOBOR

Photos: at the "Samoborski šef" workshop, traditional Samobor specialties were prepared by famous Croatian chef Branko Ognjenović (left); trout a la chef (right).

Guardian of gourmet experiences

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Written by: Sanja Plješa Photos: Robert Kunštek Photos were taken in the "Samoborska klet" restaurant in Samobor.

ocated only twenty kilometers from Zagreb, Samobor is a charming town attractive at every time of the year and widely known for its gastronomy and special dishes, and its recipes which the people of Samobor have carefully and jealously kept for centuries. The Samobor food scene is also enriched with many types of spices and sauces, for example, muštarda, which is made locally and special types of desserts. They definitely include "Samoborska greblica" (cheese

Samobor is known far and wide for its food and special dishes, and its recipes which the locals have jealously and carefully kept for centuries.

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pie) and "kremšnita" (cream cake), for which you can get the recipe, although none of the kremšnita masters will reveal the secret of the one tiny ingredient which gives them such a special flavor.

Specialized food offer If you come to Samobor as a traveler, guest, or tourist, you must try at least some of the food specialties. You can start off with Samobor salami and češnjovke (garlicky sausages) with homemade bread from a stone oven, with the addition of muštarda. This type of mustard was created in 1809, when the French came to Samobor, and it is made of ground mustard with the addition of a specially prepared grape marmalade, and other spices. It used to be sweet, and now the recipe has been adapted so that it can be sweet

Photos: Samobor salami (top left); kremšnita is one of Samobor's leading gourmet brands (top right); Samobor mushroom soup (bottom left); Samobor cutlet with potatoes (bottom right).

tip: While in Samobor, taste the bermet and muštarda, and satisfy your sweet tooth with the kremšnita it is famous for far and wide.

or savory. The Filipec family keeps the original recipe. As a condiment, muštarda goes excellently with, besides salami and sausages, boiled meat. After that appetizer, Samobor mushroom soup, which combines porcini, oyster, and button mushrooms is recommended. For the main course, definitely try the Samoborski cutlet, which is prepared in a slightly different way. The cutlets have to be a bit thicker than usual, and before cooking them, they need to be scored so that they don't curl up during cooking. The meat is browned for three minutes on each side, after which it is seasoned with salt and pepper. Expert chefs say that meat doesn't dry out if that method is used.

Roasted trout is the go-to choice for those who prefer fish. According to an old-fashioned recipe, it may be stuffed with a barley stuffing.

Franciscan bermet Slowly but surely, we have reached desert. Chocolate and bermet-filled doughnuts or Samobor kremšnita?

Both are Samobor's gourmet brands.

However, it isn't a well-known fact that today's Samobor kremšnita was actually Zagreb's kremšnita long ago, and the recipe came to Samobor. Unfortunately for Zagrebians, and fortunately for Samoborans, kremšnitas are only prepared according to the original recipe in Samobor. Another old-fashioned dessert from Samobor is Marija Cake, named after Marija Pl. Hotković, a lady from Samobor, who Ferdo Livadić dedicated one of his most valuable compositions, "Nocturno", to in 1822.

Finally, bermet, a red aromatized wine, is drunk as a digestive. It is common opinion that the French brought it to

Samobor, but some historical facts prove other conclusions. Bermet can be found in the records of the Franciscan monastery in Samobor, which means it was used in Samobor before the French arrived. The recipe for Bermet is public knowledge, just like the recipe for kremšnite, without the one secret ingredient. Selected sorts of grapes are used, typical for the Samobor highlands, with the addition of carob, fig, cinnamon, citrus, and absinthium.

Today, Bermet is as attractive a drink as it once was. Although it was only produced by the Filipec family in the past, today Bermet is also produced by many other families from Samobor.

The natural, cultural, and gourmet diversity of Samobor is reason enough for everyone to visit the picturesque town, where time stops for all those who visit it. 

April / May 2014.

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Travel writers

BORIS VELIČAN

I love deserts, sleeping on sand is my Hilton Photos: in front of animal skulls and bones in Douz, a city in the south of Tunisia (top left); Boris in Sbeitla, Tunisia (right); using henna on the beard and nails is popular in Pakistan, and this photo was taken in Dera Ghazi Khan (bottom left).

I would like to walk with the Bushmen in Botswana, cross the Taklamakan desert on a camel, dance a passionate dance with a gorgeous woman and drink mojitos on a Mexican terrace, soak in the hot geysers on Island, sail to the islands of Bora Bora...

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Prepared by: Vlatka Vužić ◆ Photo archive: Boris Veličan

"Writing is my great love, and my new travel book will be about Alaska. I have been there twice so far, and I'll be going again next year. On Kodiak, a fishing island in Alaska, I have a family that has accepted me as their son, and with whom I catch salmon and crab..."

Croatian travel writer Boris Veličan tells us a lot about himself, but even more about the experiences he had while travelling around the world. Read on...

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very Day is Sunday (Meni je svaki dan nedjelja) is the title of the travel book where you wrote about your 2609-kilometer-long "walk" from Petrograd to Paris, which was inspired by the identical feat by Mirko Seljan, who did the same 106 years

before you. How was it that you were fascinated by that trip by Seljan, and is there another great traveler whose steps you'd like to trace?

I read Zlatko Milković's book on the Seljan brothers, our great travelers from the late 19th century, and I came across the fact that the older brother,

Mirko, walked from Petrograd to Paris. I thought - what would it be like to cover that path on foot, especially now, in the 21st century? Creative or less curious people would probably think about it and continue lounging. However, I had to try it. I got myself a copy of Seljan's diary from the Ethnographic museum, and started walking while following it. It was difficult... It isn't my thing to follow the steps of the great travelers. Today, the situation is completely different.

Where great explorers and travelers passed through with machetes, you can now pass through with the help of travel agencies and credit cards.

All of the trips described in your three travel books also have their "difficult pages". On this trip, there are many.

In Lithuania, you feared for your life, Kalinjingrad awaited you "ugly, sad, and in debt", gloomy Poland left no mark... What do you think of that trip now, ten years later?

Has ten years already passed?! Boy, I've really been on the road for a long time, because then I already had a lot of experience from various trips. My opinion of the first trip on foot, as well as the idea of travelling, hasn't changed a bit. The story of my life has also been written on many "difficult pages", just like my trips. They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I would love

to slowly regain my strength on exotic beaches, surrounded by ‘chiquitas' that fan me with palm branches while I have a mojito, and not only in obscure and dangerous places, where I often physically defended my dignity... What dignity, my life! Ah, life is full of great memories...

In 2010, you set out on foot from Zagreb to the Sahara. What made you decide to take on this new threemonth-long "blistery" feat? Why did you choose the Sahara as your destination and was the impossibility of crossing the dried out Chott elJerid Lake the only concession nature made you make?

I was motivated by Croatian hikers who constantly teased me that I had gone half way around the world, but that I hadn't seen Velebit. I looked at the map and thought that I should cross the mountain range along its entire length.

Then I decided I would walk to it, cross it, and then come home on foot. That's what I did. The only difference is that the trip back was via Italy and Tunisia.

Why the Sahara? I adore the desert, sleeping on sand is my Hilton. The idea that I would reach my Hilton on foot was just like getting to heaven on a powered hang glider! As far as the dried out lake is concerned, if I had a bit more money for logistics, I could have

Photos: mountain oases in Tunisia are the most common destination visited by tourists, which Boris, unlike the other tourists, reached on foot (top).

solved that as well. My trips had small budgets. If I could, I would sleep in great hotels, pay for foot massages, eat well, but somehow, it always ends up that I sleep in the ditches next to the roads in a sleeping bag I should have thrown out long ago.

Your greatest disappointment on your trip to the Sahara was Sicily.

What thrilled you on that trip? Of all the things you saw/experienced, what would thrill, and what would negatively surprise the average tourist?

Yes, I wasn't impressed with Sicily, except with the national park. Still, I was thrilled with many things on that trip. One was that while crossing Velebit on foot, my best friend, actor Dušan Bućan, a man who cannot stand walking, joined me. I remember an attack by a wild boar, mine fields, a naïve priest who paid for my lunch as a "pilgrim", a woman who gave April / May 2014.

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Travel writers

BORIS VELIÄŒAN

Photos: everything in Alaska is big, including the salmon, and Boris caught a total of 220 tons (top left); Boris caught halibut, a first-class fish favored in Japan, in the Bering Sea. They grow up to 300 kg in weight, and the largest he caught was 125 kg (top right).

Boris' trips are distinctive and different, and he described some of them in his three travel books, published by Algoritam: "Meni je svaki dan nedjelja", "Odavde do Tralala" and "Doma je lijepo, ali svugdje je najljepĹĄe".

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me a massage for a few euro... We are all tourists today. There are a few of us that are more extreme, as well as those who don't have time and are a bit more organized than say, me. We are different, tastes are not to be disputed.

You still haven't "bound" your great trip from Zagreb through Siberia to Japan, or your trip through South America. Do you plan on publishing a new travel book where you will share the experiences and memories from those trips as well?

I don't plan on writing a book about those trips. I have a feeling that a hyperproduction of travel books has emerged and that anyone who, for example, goes to Turkey on bike has the need to write a book. I would prefer to make a movie because I have 35 hours of material from

the trip through Siberia to Japan. But, writing is my love, and of course I will write a new travel book. It will be about Alaska. I have been there twice so far, for a total of six months, and I will be going again next year. On Kodiak, a fishing island in Alaska, I have a family that has taken me in as their son, and with whom I catch salmon and crab. I can't wait to see them again!

In travelling through the many countries, you have met the most diverse people. Which person or situation do you remember fondly?

Akhtar Hussain, the Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce in northern Pakistan, who helped me open a company and enter from Pakistan into China by jeep as a trader, Hadda, my love from Tunisia who runs a

tip: Visit Zeleni vir, Bijele and Samarske Stijene in Gorski Kotar with your best friend, but don't forget to drink a glass of buttermilk in Skrad or Severin na Kupi. If you want to experience true adventurism, go to the island of Biševo beyond Vis. When it snows, tour the castles of Zagorje.

They are magical when snow envelops them.

hamam near the Algerian border on the southwest of the country, Babak Jazdeshinas, my brother from Esfahan, Iran, who together with his lovely wife Marzieh helped me when I needed it most, Lu Dochtermann, the Captain in Alaska with whom I sailed the Bering Sea, laughed, cried, and hugged. I cannot forget Hannah Anderson, without whom Seattle wouldn't make any sense, Milda Urbanovichiute from Lithuania who picked me up, soaking wet, off the street and took me into a warm home, Tetsuya, a Japanese man I see every five years, and I know I will see him for the rest of my life, and Maggie, an Englishwoman who lived in Cappadocia for years, and who I spent many sleepless nights with discussing literature... There are many more other dear people too.

You have travelled through a lot of countries and concluded that "everywhere is prettiest", but that home is great too. What are some must-see places in Croatia?

Go to Motovun and Grožnjan in Istria with a person you love and don't take a computer or mobile phone with you.

Visit Zeleni vir, Bijele and Samarske Stijene in Gorski Kotar with your best

Once a month (on a Wednesday), Boris has a travel discussion with some Croatian travel writers in the "Fadil Hadžić" LiteraryGallery center in Ilica 13 in Zagreb. Admission is free.

friend, but don't forget to drink a glass of buttermilk in Skrad or Severin na Kupi. Go to Brijuni in the off-season and take nothing but a good book. Walk around the island. Go for a swim on the beach. You will be the only one. During the season, take your spouse and kids to the island of Zverinac or Rava in the Zadar archipelago. Take a fishing pole, and relax. If a foreigner comes to visit, show him Plitvice and Dubrovnik, but make sure he eats a kilo of lamb with onions on the old road to the sea. If you want to experience true adventurism, take a little bit of money, and an underwater harpoon to the island of Biševo beyond Vis. When it snows, tour the castles of Zagorje. They are magical when snow envelops them.

What are your plans for future trips/ travels? Which destinations attract you?

As a film producer and director (I'm writing this in Prague, where I'm trying to find partners for a new movie), a journalist, and travel writer, I'm constantly on the go. When I return from Prague, I will continue travelling through Croatia, Slovenia, and Bosnia, and I plan on taking a distant journey in the summer. I will be going to Columbia and Brazil with my best friend, Dušan Bućan. We won't be walking a lot, but we will row on the Amazon. After that? I would like to walk with the Bushmen in Botswana, cross the Taklamakan desert

Photos: between Ancona and Rome in 2010, when Boris walked from Zagreb to the Sahara (top); on his walk from Petrograd to Paris in 2004, a 2609 km-long journey, Boris took a short break in Estonia (bottom).

on a camel, dance a passionate dance with a gorgeous woman and drink mojitos on a Mexican terrace, soak in the hot geysers on Island, sail to the islands of Bora Bora, celebrate Chinese New Year with the Chinese, spend some time in a Buddhist monastery, some time in Moscow, some time, in Barcelona, and I would like to snorkel with Filipinos... 

April / May 2014.

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Send and...

WIN

The "Send and... win" competition continues on!

Dear all, our "Send and... win" competition continues! We looked over all the photographs you sent us while travelling through the world (and thank you for them!), and have selected and decided to publish a few of the best, chosen by the editors. The authors, who we decided had the 'best eye for photography' will get a book published

by Profil, in Croatian (published in the previous or this issue of tipTravel magazine). Sounds good, doesn't it?

By May 15, 2014.

The medieval castle in the city of War wick, the capital of the Warwicksh ire County in Great Britain. It was buil t by William the Conqueror.

(Author: Ivana Jakopinac Trgovec, Zagreb)

You can send us interesing and beautiful photographs (min. 5 mpix in size) from a recent trip around the world and everything attractive you experienced and saw by May 15, 2014.

We will send the authors of the best photos a book/travel guide published by Profil as a gift. And the best three photos we'll publish in the next issue of the magazine (and on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/tiptravelmagazine, as well) so that others can also enjoy them :-) You can send us the photos at info@tiptravelmagazine.com The condition is that the authors of the photographs send their name and surname, city and country, and email address where we can contact them, as well as a short description of the photograph.

And don't forget: the campaign is only valid for readers who have signed up for the newsletter of tipTravel magazine, so if you haven't signed up yet, what are you waiting for?!

Pyramid, Mexico.

(Author: Ivona Pavić, Zagreb)

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You can sign up at: www.tiptravelmagazine.com (as a reminder, we only send the newsletter once a month, and promise not to stuff your inbox :-))

A girl in front of the Compañía de Jesus church in the city of Cuzco (Peru), located at an altitude of 3400 meters above sea level.

(Author: Spomenka Saraga, Zagreb)

Florence and Tuscany For all those who are planning a trip to Florence and Tuscany, the Florence and Tuscany Eyewitness Travel Guide is unavoidable literature. Abundant in photos, this book will take you through the sites of this Italian region. The first part of the guidebook focuses on the city of Florence in detail according to region, with a list of the most important sites, while the second part covers Tuscany through its five regions, with special descriptions of the cities and places that must be visited. In the "What travelers should know" chapter, you will find a list of places, restaurants and bars that should be visited. www.profil-mozaik.hr

Turkey Turkey is one of the famous destinations presented in the series of world renowned Eyewitness Travel Guides, published by Dorling Kindersley. Here you will find information on many sites, advice on how to get around, where to eat, where to stay, where to have fun, and which guided tour to choose. There are many attractive photos and illustrations, but also maps to help you find your way through Turkey. www.profil-mozaik.hr

The jokes stayed home A collection of travel stories by author Gordan Nuhanović will take you, amongst other places, through the former Russian republics of Armenia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. Although it is based on true travel experiences, in search of internal motives that lead him to some of the countries, the book focuses on intimate confessions from time to time. www.profil-mozaik.hr

April / May 2014.

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First-hand experience

TRAVEL IS KNOWLEDGE

Learning through travelling During our ten-month trip around the world, we discussed the purpose of travelling and looked for the answer to the question: "What did we gain from this trip?". The conclusion was short and sweet - KNOWLEDGE. Yes, knowledge is the greatest value that remains after every trip...

Photos: Palawan Island, the Philippines (left); Ivica and Mladen in a train from Kiev to Moscow (top right); gift giving at a modern wedding in Trabzon, Turkey (bottom right).

Written by: Ivica Jujnović, "Around the World" ("Oko svijeta") traveler's society Photos: Mladen Kovačević www.okosvijeta.hr www.putovanje-je-znanje.com

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A

fter many Interrail and car trips through Europe, working in the USA, and "wandering" through various parts of the world, my friend Zoran Paunović and I, over a glass of wine, made the decision to take a trip around the world. In passing through 38 countries, we moved our boundaries, became more self-confident, beat prejudices, learned intensively, enjoyed ourselves...

Grand tours for young people The idea for learning through travel is not a new one. The roots of today's modern touristic travel date back to the 17th century, when young aristocrats regularly organized grand tours of Europe. The purpose of travelling was to learn about art, get to know more about different

cultures, perfect foreign languages, etc.

A similar practice is common abroad in western countries, where a large number of young people grab a backpack after completing secondary school or university, and head out on a long, selforganized journey.

Using our own experience and the mentioned practices, an initiative was launched to promote learning through travelling and to encourage young people to take self-planned grand tours. After formal education, a grand tour would be the icing on the cake, and help a young person form into a mature, experienced person, ready for the challenges placed before them by modern society. Travelling freely, people quickly gain new knowledge, become more tolerant and ready for future challenges in life and work.

Society and festival Aware of the fact that daily life and lethargy deplete the mental ability of man and "lull the brain to sleep", as an alternative, we have established learning in an interesting and dynamic way, that is, learning through travelling. Travelling is the ideal way for awakening people, raising awareness, and getting on the road to happiness. Due to "sleepiness" and inertia, people find various excuses to fight off the call of the journey.

They often emphasize the lack of time and money, while on the other hand, employers, family, and society lack understanding, so every grand tour is accompanied by complaints.

The initiative of learning through travelling was formalized with the establishment of a society of travelers

"Around the World" and gathering travel writers and experienced travelers at the "Travel is Knowledge" festival. The festival promotes the change in the value system, promotes knowledge as the most important resources, and in that way, contributes to the "Croatia - Land of Knowledge" ("Hrvatska - zemlja znanja") concept.

The society offers passionate travelers, and all those who would like to be, the opportunity to socialize, get advice, look for fellow travelers, and meet famous Croatian travelers and travel writers through many activities.

We love to say that the knowledge retained after travelling the world is an "on-site doctorate", and we truly recommend everyone follow in our footsteps without hesitation. ď ś

Photos: Registan, the heart of Samarkand (Uzbekistan), the most important city on the Silk Road (top left), Potala Palace in Lhasi (Tibet, China), the former headquarters for the Dalai Lama (top right); the wine cellars of the Kahketi wine valley in Georgia (bottom left); the Great Wall of China (bottom right).

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First-hand experience

TRAVEL IS KNOWLEDGE

How I started travelling with my child With each new trip, children's "wings" grow so they can "fly" unbelievably high.

Each new trip is a chance to grow and develop...

T

hree years ago, I decided to take my then four-year-old son Gabriel, on a longer and somewhat different trip. A little train adventure. That was how I imagined it at the time. I had a goal, desire, mission, whatever you'd like to call it. I wanted to travel with him, give him a look at the world outside what he had known to that point and offer him a real global experience.

Trip preparations Photos: Anita and Gabriel travelling through Italy, for which they took several weeks to prepare by researching the life and habits of ancient Romans (top left and right).

Text & photos: Anita Šolman Janđel www.eduroundtheworld.com www.facebook.com/ educationalproject

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We slowly started preparing, and the information we read in geographical encyclopedias gave us many different ideas. Still, for our first trip, we chose Italy: Venice, Florence, and Rome.

Two weeks before the trip we got books, children's encyclopedias, and spent afternoons and evenings "in the company of Romans". Together we explored, researched the habits of Romans, prepared "Roman" dishes, made tools like those used during the Roman Empire... we memorized some phrases in Italian, sang, played "giocco a rotonda", practice "on site", and had great fun doing so. Just before the trip, we drew a map, our little itinerary for Rome, where we drew in sites we wanted to visit, sketched streets, bridges... We studied.

Organizing educational trips Finally, in mid-June 2011, we headed out on our train adventure. After the indescribable excitement of sleeping in a sleeping wagon, and the experience of a modern international train, we arrived in Rome. On the first day, I was pleasantly surprised with the child's knowledge of everything we had learned, and his orientation on site. Seeing how much the relatively simple, fun, and short studying before the trip had on him, I decided to give other children the chance for it. So, since September of last year, I have been organizing educational travel programs for children and parents, where I develop three areas: educational travel around the world, educational workshops on the road, and educational materials. I place special emphasis on programs of art and culture, and the organization of various thematic trips: musical, art trips, genius trips, etc. My wish is to motivate children and parents to travel, explore, expand their knowledge, and... have fun doing so! 

iOS App

CROATIA POI CHARACTERISTICS: • More than 40 different clients • Every Point of interest contains additional information, such as: address, phone number, working hours, web address, e-mail, and other specific info • Currently more than 20 000 POIs contained in the local database • Ability to send POIs via e-mail or SMS • Sharing via social networks (Facebook, Twitter, Google...)

• Ability to navigate to a selected POI • 3 map types

Aplitap Ltd www.aplitap.hr contact@aplitap.hr

STATISTICS: • Number one in Croatia Apple Store for 4 months already • More than 20 000 unique users • Application used more than 130 000 times

You may deliver your POI data to us in the following formats: CSV, XML, JSON, DOC, XLSX.

Apple Store:

You can be a part of CROATIA POI, add the locations of your business offices and be visible to all our users!tipTravelMagazine 117 April / May 2014.

CULTURAL SCENE

Croatian MusicalCultural Treat

S Prepared by: Vlatka Vužić

pring means awakening, always and everywhere. Both for nature, as well as people, but also for cities, whose cultural scene is becoming more diverse and abundant. The "pearl of the Adriatic", Dubrovnik, where we'll be taking you to two concerts, has seriously starting preparing. In Split, we'll take you to "Marulić Days", in Varaždin to a premiere of a play, in Zadar to a concert of Oliver Dragojević, a legend of the Croatian music scene, and we also bring you recommendations for several exhibitions. Perhaps you'll choose RIP in Rijeka?!

In any case, the choice is yours.

CULTURAL SCENE

tip: Tell us why you should be the one to win tickets for one of the listed concerts / shows (of your choice).

Send your answer by April 4, 2014 to info@tiptravelmagazine.com and twelve most creative amongst you will get two tickets each for the concert or show of your choice!

* One person can get a maximum of two tickets for one of the listed concerts/ performances, so don't forget to mention which concert or show you are interested in, answer the question, and send your contact information (name and surname, mobile phone number, e-mail) so we can contact you.

Winners of the concert tickets from the 4th Issue: Bajaga concert in Zagreb: Marija Aralica, Zagreb Massimo concert in Split: Anita Čavka, Split Massimo concert in Zagreb: Arabela Novak-Đura, Čakovec Neno Belan concert in Varaždin: Matija Grabar, Varaždin Neno Belan concert in Zagreb: Mladen Šipek, Zagreb

Easter in Arsenal with Oliver Rufus Wainwright in Lisinski This famous musician is coming to Zagreb as part of his concert tour to promote his greatest hits album "Vibrate: The Best of Rufus Wainwright", where he will perform in the "Vatroslav Lisinski" Concert Hall. Wainwright has seven studio and two live albums, and in 2009, his first opera "Prima Donna" premiered, and its success motivated him to prepare new opera works. * Dallas Records is giving away 1x2 tickets to the Rufus Wainwright concert on April 2.

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Oliver Dragojević, a legend of the Croatian music scene, will have a concert on Easter, April 20, 2014 at the famous "Arsenal" Club in Zadar. * The Arsenal Club is giving away 1x2 tickets for the Oliver Dragojević concert on April 20.

Photo archive: Varaždin City Museum

Kraljević retrospective at the Modern Gallery

Wednesday in the Museum "Wednesday in the Museum" is a weekly event where the Varaždin City Museum prepares various cultural activities for its visitors, such as lectures, concerts, exhibition openings, round tables, promotions, and discussions with famous families and artists (from Varaždin). The programs are held in three venues of the Varaždin museum: the Herzer and Sermage palaces and the Stari Grad fortress. In April, as part of a colorful program, the cave fauna of Croatia and Georgian traditions of the area will be discussed, a lute will be played and a comic book exhibition will be opened. For more information on the schedule of events, visit: www.gmv.hr

Zagreb's Modern Gallery marked the hundredth anniversary of the death of Miroslav Kraljević with the largest retrospective of the pioneer of modern art to date. The exhibition, which is open only until April 6, spreads over 12 halls, where almost 200 of his most important works are shown. After Zagreb, the exhibition heads to Venice, to Ca Pesaro and the Museum of Modern Art, followed

by Split, Osijek, and Dubrovnik. In honor of this great exhibition, a museum - pedagogical program, art workshops for children, and interactive guided tours have been organized.

Rijeka's Industrial Story An exhibition titled Rijeka's Industrial Story (RIP - Riječka industrijska priča) is open until May 25, 2014. This story, told through the lens of photographer Stanislav Belička, has been enriched with video material by Kristijan Vučković, but also with specially composed music by Josip Maršić and Zoran Medved. The exhibition is also accompanied by a monograph

by Ema Aničić, which catalogs the history of Rijeka's industrial heritage.

The goal of the exhibition is to show the problem of abandoned, and some still active industrial sites in Rijeka, all in one place.

Dubioza Kolektiv in Dubrovnik

Carl Cox at the Revelin

Dubioza Kolektiv, a Bosnian ska, punk, reggae, dub rock band, whose recognizable rhythmic style and attractive on-stage performances have won over the audience region-wide will perform at the Revelin Culture Club in Dubrovnik, on April 12, 2014. Their popular album "Apsurdistan" can be downloaded free of charge here: http://dubioza.org/

For 25 years, Carl Cox has been one of the most famous DJs and also one of the largest names on the electronic scene. He is the proud owner of many awards and recognitions from the public, but also musical critics, he has performed worldwide, and he is coming to Dubrovnik to open the Revelin's jampacked season on May 16, 2014.

* The Revelin Culture Club is giving away 2x2 tickets to the Dubioza Kolektiv concert on April 12.

* The Revelin Culture Club is giving away 2x2 tickets to Carl Cox's performance on May 16.

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CULTURAL SCENE

Natali Dizdar Natali Dizdar, famous Croatian musician and the owner of a unique voice, marks the tenth anniversary of her career this year. She will celebrate with a concert tour, "Natali Dizdar tour

by Nokia Lumia", where she will perform in the Croatian National Theatre in Varaždin on May 10, in VIP Club in Zagreb on May 23, in Kaštel in Pula on June 27, and Arsenal Zadar on July 18.

Conducted by: Vlatka Vužić

I feel at home in Zadar

CULTURAL SCENE

You were born in Zadar, currently one of the most popular Croatian travel destinations. How much has development changed your hometown?

Zadar has grown over the past couple of years, and I like that, as of recently, I see tourists not only in the summer, but also in the winter. More travelers, more open-minded people contribute to the more relaxed atmosphere.

Do you have a favorite place in Zadar you always go back to?

tip:

By April 4, 2014, send us the answer to the question why you would like to have Natali's album "Pronađi put" to info@tiptravelmagazine.com.

The authors of the two most original answers will get the album.

120 tipTravelMagazine April / May 2014.

I love the Kolovare beach, although it might not be the ideal place to swim, but it is in town, and it's closest to me, and I especially love the Karma promenade, where I most often walk my dog. I grew up in a house next to the sea, so I imagine my ideal place to live in the future somewhere with sea air.

You grew up in Sukošan, near Zadar, but due to university and your career you had to move to Zagreb.

I spent the same amount of time growing up in Sukošan and Zadar, where I attended musical, and later secondary school. I moved to Zagreb for university, and in the meantime, my career started, due to which I have been living between Zadar and Zagreb since then. I'm relatively flexible, and I love that change from the noisy, stressful city, to relaxing and calm Zadar. I feel more at home in Zadar, but currently, this is the ideal combination for me.

While promoting your music, you have spent a lot of time on the road, touring various parts of

Natali's current single "Grijeh" has been nominated for "Hit of the Year".

Croatia. Which city or region did you especially like?

There are truly beautiful places and landscapes we have seen in Croatia.

From small towns in the interior of Istria all the way to Dubrovnik. I can say I really love the entire region of Dubrovnik, as well as the city of Rovinj, which has the spirit of an international city. I would love to go back to Brijune, and I want to go to Komiža, which I haven't visited yet.

Besides traveling for business, you also travel a lot for pleasure.

Where do you "have to" return, and what else would you like to see?

I would love to go to the north of Thailand, then Cambodia, Vietnam, and India, then go back to Sri Lanka, because the relaxed atmosphere in Arugam Bay, where we spent ten days, was truly special and unforgettable. I would love to return to Sicily and Portugal once again, and I'm definitely going back to New York. I hope to take a road trip from there all the way to Las Vegas. For the past couple of years, I've also been dreaming about the south of Africa... 

Photo archive: CNT Šibenik

Chekhov's classic drama about the desire for happiness and another life, "Three Sisters" has been directed this season by famous Macedonian director Slobodan Unkovski. "To play Chekhov" is considered to be the most demanding acting role, which was taken by Jelena Miholjević, Dijana Vidušin, and Ivana Roščić, as Olga, Maša and Irina, and Bojana Gregorić Vejzović as Natalija Ivanovna.

They are joined on stage by many other famous actors. * Gavella is giving away 2x2 tickets for the show "Tri Sisters" on April 9.

Šibenik's theater celebrated last year's hundredth anniversary of the birth of the legend of Croatian Literature, Ranko Marinković, with the premiere of the show "Glorija", directed by Zoran Mužić. In 2013, the show got the most nominations for the Croatian Acting Awards, and alongside the winner of the award for male leading actor, Siniša Popović, the performance also features Franka Klarić, Joško Ševo, Špiro Guberina... * CNT Šibenik is giving away 2x2 tickets for the show "Glorija" on April 22.

Photo archive: Theater Gavella

"Glorija" in CNT Šibenik

Photo archive: CNT Varaždin

"Three Sisters" in Gavella

"No Logo Opera(tion)" in CNT Varaždin On April 11, the premiere of "No Logo Opera(tion)" will be held in CNT Varaždin.

This international artistic project has been created by Sanja Tropp Frühwald from Varaždin and Mirjam Schmuck i Fabiana Lettowa from the German "kainkollektiv".

They got their inspiration from the "No Logo" book by the American journalist Naomi Klein, where she describes the dark side of the shiny external culture of brands and the emptiness of logos. The colorful cast, which bring this "modern Baroque opera" to the public, brings together Croatian and German actors, dancers, singers, and string musicians. * CNT Varaždin is giving away 1x2 tickets to the premiere of "No Logo Opera(tion)", April 11.

Winners of the theater tickets from the 4th Issue: "Lover" in Dubrovnik: Marija Mašanović, Dubrovnik "The Dog Logs" in Split: Ana Kalas, Split "The Barber of Seville" in CNT Zagreb: Luka Šmalcelj, Zagreb

Photo: Matko Biljak, archive: CNT Split

The 24th annual Marulić Days will be held in Split from April 23 to 30, 2014. Ten shows produced by the same number of theaters in five countries will be performed at this festival of Croatian drama and theater. As is tradition, the "Marin Držić" formal awards ceremony for dramatic arts will be held at the opening of the festival.

CULTURAL SCENE

Marulić Days

* CNT Split is giving away 1x2 tickets for the show "Pritisci moje generacije" (The Pressures of My Generation), April 26.

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Photo: Željko Krnčević, archive of Šibenik Tourist Board

Presenting

CROATIA TRAVEL CLUB

Travel aficionados The goal of the club is to encourage young people to enjoy the multicultural world, and to travel, in order to broaden their horizons and interact with other people who are different from them.

Photo: a view of Šibenik, where the headquarters of the Croatia Travel Club are, and where the 2014 Croatian Travel Festival will be held (top).

Written by: Vlatka Vužić Photos: Željko Krnčević (archive of Šibenik Tourist Board) and archive of Croatia Travel Club

T

he Croatia Travel Club, a group for promoting travel amongst young people, was founded by a group of travel buffs in 2011. Although its headquarters are in Šibenik, the club soon got branches in Zagreb, Osijek, Rijeka, Rovinj, and Pazin. It achieves its goal - promoting the idea of traveling - through various projects whereby it wants to encourage young people to enjoy the multicultural world and to travel in order to broaden their horizons and interact with other people who are different from them.

The Club's projects So far, they have successfully conducted several projects, of which the largest is the "Croatian Travel Festival - Šibenik". It has been held since 2012 with the idea of bringing travel closer to everyone and presenting the most diverse ways of travelling. In the festival's first year, it managed to bring together many travel writers and travelers who, through multimedia presentations, shared their experiences. "Wandering-writing-taking pictures" is a project of travel writing forums these young enthusiasts organize

2014 Croatian Travel Festival

In March 2014, club members headed out to Dakar, capital city of Senegal, and 6300 kilometers from Šibenik as part of the "2014 ŠibenikDakar Expedition".

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The third annual Croatian Travel Festival will be held from May 15 to 18 this year in Šibenik, which will then become the "colorful center of the world". Children from the "Žižula" kindergarten will decorate the flags of most of the world's countries, and draw pictures of the wonders of the world.

Street performers will delight passersby who will have the opportunity to visit exhibitions, participate in photography workshops, and flip through some interesting books written by one of the travel writers participating at the festival.

Dvina Meler, Boris Veličan, Jasen Boko, Nenad Vlahović, Željan Rakela, Hrvoje Jurić, Goran Šafarek and many others are coming Šibenik... Why don't you come too?

throughout Croatia, which enables famous and less famous Croatian travel writers to present their books, but also to share their travel experiences and impressions with others.

The "Involve me and I'll understand" project was created through the initiative of members who wanted to use their photography skills to help hungry children in Malawi, Africa. Also, member launched other humanitarian initiatives and donated funds to associations throughout Croatia. "60 days around the world" and "90 days around the world" are the names of projects that allow

members who are not able, or who do not want to travel on their own, to join a team that has come together with the aim of getting to know new destinations.

So far, a total of 146 members of the club have participated in both projects, and traveled through a total of twenty countries in four continents.

The goal of the "Lifetime Adventures" project is to offer all club members the opportunity to participate and travel the world, regardless of whether they are seasoned travelers or just beginners. It is a club journey, divided into five trips over the duration of 15 to 20 days. 

Photos: photos from many club members' trips around the world - from Peru, Bolivia, and Mauritania to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam (top).

The Dijana Klarić Award Starting this year, the Croatian Travel Club will award the "Dijana Klarić" award, launched in memory of the young traveler and photographer from Šibenik, whose life and art were tied to travel, art, and the joy of life. The five competition categories include: Best Travelogue, Best Travelogue photo, Best Travelogue film, Best Project, and Traveler of the Year. The admission deadline for the competition is April 1, 2014, and the awards will be handed out to the winning competitors at the Croatian Travel Festival, on May 17, 2014 in Šibenik.

Find out more at: www.hrvatskiklubputnika.com

"Šibenik - Nordkapp 2013" is a project achieved in collaboration with the Tourist board of the City of Šibenik as a club expedition to the northernmost point of Europe. The goal was to promote the city, but also Croatia as a travel destination.

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UNICEF

CROATIA & WORLD

UNICEF / Harandane Dicko

UNICEF State of the World's Children 2014 report:

Every Child Counts The report sends a strong message to the decision makers at all levels that whether every child gets the chance to enjoy all their rights depends on them and the decisions they make.

Text: UNICEF Croatia Photo archive: UNICEF

Photo: a school in Timbuktu, Mali, with Hamssatou TourĂŠ (10) up front, and his third-grade classmates in the background (top).

tip: You can find the Report on the State of the World's Children using the following link: www.unicef.org/ sowc2014/numbers/

124 tipTravelMagazine April / May 2014.

A

ccording to the quality of life of children, measured indicators such as mortality of children under the age of five, access to clean water and sanitary conditions, literacy, etc., Croatia is an advanced country. As stated in UNICEF's State of the World's Children report, Croatia placed 161st amongst 194 countries for mortality of children under the age of five.

However, what the report didn't show are the conditions for children growing up institutions, children with developmental disabilities, children of the Roma minority, children who live in small and isolated areas, children who are raised at risk of poverty.

Unfortunately, those groups of children in Croatia are still deprived of their rights. Some of them do not have access to all the necessary services for proper growth and development, some are deprived of the right to education,

and some have literally had their childhood and possibility to grow up as part of a family taken from them.

Lack of services UNICEF's research "How Parents and the Community Care for the Youngest Children in Croatia" showed the lack of services for children with developmental difficulties, especially in smaller places, which is why the children often end up in institutionalized care.

According to estimates mentioned in the National Strategy for the Inclusion of the Roma 2013-2020, around 70 percent of Roma children do not complete elementary school. Education for most Roma children lasts on average only 4.5 years. Children growing up in poor families, which according to estimates, amount to more than 20 percent in Croatia, are especially vulnerable. The data shows the unfulfilled potential of

UNICEF / Adam Dean

the most vulnerable groups of children, whose living conditions shouldn't affect the fulfilment of all their rights.

Gross inequality In the Report, data on 2.2 billion children in the world warns of gross inequality due to which the child's chances in life greatly depend on whether they are born in a poor or rich country, whether they live in urban or rural surroundings, the economic status of their family, and their gender. For example, inadequate health care during pregnancy and childbirth is responsible for 300 thousand stillborn children, but also for the loss of three million lives of children within the first three months. Although great advances have been made in child survival, still 18 thousand children under the age of five die daily, mostly of preventable causes.

Developmental delays have been decreased by 37 percent in comparison with 1990, and the number of children enrolled in elementary school has increased. Today, 81 percent of children attend school, while 14 years ago, the right to education was taken from half of all children in undeveloped countries, mostly in Africa and Asia.

Still, at this time, a total of 57 million children have been denied the right to an elementary school education.

UNICEF / Olivier Asselin

their right to protection from economic exploitation and right to learn and play has been violated. A total of 11 percent of girls have been forced to marry before the age of 15, which encroaches their right to health, education, and protection. Also, one in three children in the world, or 230 million children aged up to 5 years officially do not exist. That means their birth was not registered and their rights can be freely violated. So, this Report sends a strong message to the decision makers at all levels that whether every child gets the opportunity to enjoy their rights depends on them, and their decisions, and care needs to be taken now, and in the future. ď ś

Photos: children eating rice porridge enriched with nutritional nutrients, in the village of Naungkalar, Myanmar (top left); Adjide Anour washes the hands of his 15-month-old daughter Zara, in Mongo, Chad. Adjide already lost a child to malnutrition, and Zara also suffered from it, but thanks to the treatments she received at the food center supported by UNICEF, she recovered (top right); a mother holding her daughter while little Yesica gets her measles shot in the Alta Verapez center in Guatemala (bottom).

A strong message The Report also states other concerning data: 15 percent of the world's children are involved in child labor, which means

UNICEF / Susan Markisz

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News

WORLD New gastronomic website for European cuisine

Photo: Robert Kunštek

Photo archive: Crikvenica Tourist Board

In order to strengthen the ties between the European tourism and food sectors, the European Travel Commission (ETC), with the financial support of the European Commission, launched a new internet website, www.tastingeurope.com, where it is possible to publish various national, regional, and local gastro events. In one place, the website informs and shows the gastronomical diversity of European cuisine, but also acts as a unique and free tool for national and local tourist boards to advertise their gastronomical events, and so improve their visibility.

The website is currently available only in English, but the event descriptions can be published in all EU languages.

In this way, Europe is additionally promoting itself, not only as an attractive destination for its rich history, art, and landscape, but also for its diverse culinary traditions.

Photo archive: ITB

The UNWTO and the Government of Andorra, in collaboration with the parish of Andorra la Vella, have organized the 8th World Congress on Snow and Mountain Tourism (9-10 April 2014). Since the first gathering, the main objective of the Congress has been to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities of snow and mountain destinations and to acquire an overview of successful business models, innovation, the impact of climate change, and tourism marketing. For two days, leading international experts will discuss the new strategies to be adopted for mountain tourism, with special focus on the summer season, best practices for the development of new products for the summer season, and the emerging mountain tourism destinations. www2.unwto.org 126 tipTravelMagazine April / May 2014.

Indonesia to develop over 500 tourism villages The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy in Indonesia has revealed plans to develop 561 tourism villages in 19 provinces in 2014. The project is designed to help visitors discover traditional life in local Indonesian villages, where residents maintain indigenous cultures and live just as their ancestors did. Throughout 2014, the Ministry will improve facilities in villages by developing tourism facilities and providing support for the local people. Except financial support, each village will have organized training sessions offered in foreign languages, art, culture, and culinary skills. The local communities who live in these areas still maintain ancient ethnic customs, wear traditional clothes and produce exotic crafts, allowing visitors to experience distinctive cultures.

Photo: Robert Kunštek

8th World Congress on Snow and Mountain Tourism

Conference on Responsible Tourism in Manchester The eighth annual International Conference on Responsible Tourism in Destinations will be held from April 3 to 5, 2014 in Manchester (Great Britain). There will be discussions on taking responsibility for tourism, climate changes, local business development, human rights, and social inclusion.

Amongst other things, the conference will try to answer the question of how to motivate individuals and organizations to take responsibility and achieve change.

ITB: growth of global tourism once again this year

Photo archive: ITB

Photo archive: COMPRESS Zagreb

Photo: Luka Ĺ malcelj

The world's tourism and travel industry expects continued growth this year in almost all its segments and regions globally, but it is concerned about the situation in the Ukraine and Egypt, which could slow growth, emphasized global tourism experts at the largest global travel fair, ITB, held in Berlin from March 5 to 9, 2014. It is foreseen that the number of international tourist arrivals will grow by 4.5 percent globally in comparison to last year's record-breaking 1.1 billion arrivals, but all forecasts show a certain fear and concern due to terrorism in Egypt and the crisis in the Ukraine. As is tradition, Croatia also presented itself at the ITB, at the Croatian National Tourist Board's booth, 220 square meters in size, with 13 other copresenters, and Istria and Kvarner specially presented itself, with emphasis on selective forms of tourism.

Turkey is rewarding the issue of the millionth e-visa For more than a year, citizens of 98 countries have had the chance to apply for an e-visa for Turkey via the www.evisa.gov.tr website.

In mid-March 2014, the number of issued e-visas reached nearly a million (by March 11, 2014, a total of 950 thousand visas), according to the Turkish Embassy in Croatia. The registration for and approval of the e-visa takes about three minutes, and the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs will give the user of the millionth e-visa, which should be issued by the end of March, a return plane ticket.

In 2013, nearly 35 million foreigners visited Turkey, which positioned the country amongst the six most visited countries in the world. www.uhpa.hr

Photo archive: WTM

"Freud's travels" in Vienna

WTM Latin America in April, WTM Africa in May WTM Latin America the leading global event for the travel industry of Latin America, will be held from April 23 to 25 in SĂŁo Paulo. This three-day B2B event will gather the world in Latin America, but will also promote that large area to the world. Only a week later, on May 2 and 3, 2014, WTM Africa, a B2B event adapted for the African market, and which will also become the new gathering place for the African travel industry, will be held in Cape Town.

The "Freud's travels. Cultural experience - psychoanalytical thought" exhibition opened on March 7, 2014 in Vienna's Sigmund Freud Museum, and it is dedicated to the many trips Freud took for business and pleasure. The center of the exhibition shows the move of Freud's family from the Czech Republic to Vienna, and his trips to Italy, Greece, and America. While the permanent exhibition of Freud's Museum in Vienna offers insight to his work in familiar surroundings, this exhibition shows the central role travel had on the life of this famous psychoanalyst. Documents, souvenirs, and photos from Freud's travels have been shown for the first time. The exhibition is open until October 5, 2014.

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Interesting facts

INDIA

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Indian spices Besides being a country of temples, diversity, and many interesting things, India is also the country of spices. They are as old as the civilization itself, and besides adding flavor and color to food, each spice has its own purpose and acts as a protector of good health and certain organs. Curry is doubtlessly the most popular and a trademark of Indian cuisine, and it is made up of a total of thirty various spices. Other main Indian spices include caraway, pepper, cinnamon, red and green chili, garam masala, turmeric, saffron, cardamom, and coriander. You can find these typical spices, alongside various aromatic vegetables such as onions and ginger, and the most diverse types of dried fruit, at almost any local market in India. All together, they make for incredibly colorful pictures, so they are a common motif for numerous photographers and tourists.

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"The World of Fabergé" in Vienna until May 18 "The World of Fabergé" exhibit, which shows the precious works that the most influential Russian jeweler and goldsmith Peter Carl Fabergé made for the Russian Imperial family, the Romanovs, is open in the Viennese Art History Museum until May 18, 2014. More than 160 exhibits have been shown: from vases, rings, bracelets, goblets, picture frames, cigarette cases, all the way to spoons and plates gilded with gold, silver, and precious jewels. Amongst the most expensive exhibits are four Easter eggs, for which Fabergé is famous worldwide. Up until 1916, Fabergé and his associates created fifty such eggs, which are considered to be his most luxurious works. Ten are kept in Russian museums, and the rest are located in private collections worldwide.

London / Vienna / Brussels, Brugge, Antwerpen & Ghent London / Vienna / Brussels, Brugge, Antwerpen & Ghent are just some of the famous destinations presented in the series of the world renowned Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guides, published by Dorling Kindersley. The guides include information on the top 10 must-see attractions, as well as the ten best museums, and the same number of events which shouldn't be missed in the mentioned cities.

The guidebooks also give recommendations for the best restaurants, hotels, bars, and shopping locations. www.algoritam.hr

PROMO

Flights that will pamper you Photo: mediaBase Lufthansa

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ore than 2800 take-offs and landings, more than 280 thousand passengers, more than 1.4 million meals served, more than 32 thousand replies to phone calls... all that in only one day. Sounds impressive, doesn't it? That is what one day at the Lufthansa airline company, with a fleet of more than 620 airplanes, looks like in numbers. This company, with a long tradition, has been present in Croatia for about 40 years, and in order to offer its passengers an even better quality travelling experience, it continually works on improving its services and products.

Late last year, with the introduction of the new, modern Lufthansa Boeing 747-800 to its fleet, it raised its level of comfort to the top of the class, while

letting their passengers know that they will be pampering them even more. In the new business class, passengers have even more comfortable and spacious

seating, place in a V formation, which, besides offering more room, also offers more privacy. With the touch of a button, the seat transforms into a 1.98 meter long comfortable bed, while each passenger also has their own 15-inch TV monitor for keeping up-to-date with various entertaining and informative content.

New and more comfortable seating has also been installed in economy class, which now offers more leg room.

Lufthansa continually introduces new expansions of it routes to new destinations, and special emphasis has been put on flights to Asia. We are convinced you will be able to find the most interesting flight for yourself amongst the 24 destinations to eleven Asian countries that Lufthansa's planes fly to. 

You can find special deals on flights to Asia, but also other destinations in Europe and abroad at: lufthansa.com April / May 2014.

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PERU

Some famous travelers nearly circled the world in eighty days, and I decided to divide those precious days amongst Chile, Bolivia, and Peru. The last point of my itinerary in South America was Peru, and we visited that incredible country in May. I wanted to be absolutely sure that we wouldn't have our pictures taken at Machu Picchu in rain ponchos. Here's the story...

Photo: a view of Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city.

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Text & photos: Antonija Perković Prpa

PERU

SOUTH AMERIKA

Following in the footsteps on the Incas in a mystical land

April / May 2014.

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Peru is the twentieth-largest country in the world, with a population of a little more than 30 million people, of which most are at least partially native Indian. It is amongst the 40 economically most important countries in the world, and it reaps most of its wealth from mining, fishing, and tourism.

Photos: a ride in islanders' traditional boats on Lake Titicaca (top left); people from the Floating Islands traditionally wear bright colored clothes (top right); a picture taken at the "Peru" sign at the border (bottom left); a girl on one of the Floating Islands (bottom right).

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I

started learning Spanish because of the love I have for that lovely beige-toned country. It was the time of the massive occupation of our TV channels with Mexican, Venezuelan, and similar soap operas. After exploring Spain in minute detail, my sights turned to South America.

I waited a long time because the standard three weeks of Croatian vacation seemed too short for such a long journey.

But as the saying goes: Good things come to those that wait. Some famous travelers nearly circled the world in eighty days, and I decided to divide those precious days amongst Chile, Bolivia, and Peru.

South entrance to Peru Peru was the last point of my itinerary because March is still warm and sunny in Chile, and May becomes drier in Peru.

I wanted to be absolutely sure that we wouldn't have our pictures taken at Machu Picchu in rain ponchos. Such a schedule meant that my friends and I had already endured two weeks of Bolivian heights, so we solved the first issue people usually have when they reach Peruvian heights suddenly. We reached Peru, more precisely the town of Puno, from the Bolivian town of Copacabana (not exactly similar to the more famous town of the same name) by local bus that drives along the shore of Lake Titicaca.

On passing through the border, it is easy to conclude that you are passing from the poorest country of South America into the far more developed Peru.

Stories from the people of the Floating Islands Ever since elementary school and geography quizzes, which the teacher used to awaken our love for the subject (which definitely worked for me), Lake Titicaca has been a somewhat mystical place for me, and I must admit I was somewhat disappointed when I saw only a giant lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Titicaca (at 3812 meters above sea level) is the highest lake that

large commercial ships such as the Ollante, a 79 meter-long steam boat that used to ship cargo and passengers, and which now, in its retirement, transports curious tourists, can sail on. However, what is more interesting are the colors, smiles, and stories of the people of the Floating Islands. Tourist excursions are offered at every step and usually include a visit to two or three of the forty islands, which are raft-like and made of reeds of totora plant. The islands are still inhabited by some members of the Uros tribe, while the others have moved to solid ground long ago and come to their island homes just before the tourists do.

After touring the houses and teaching you about the construction of the island

Photos: islanders will gladly show tourists their homes and customs, and teach them about building an island from totora reed, which, when fresh, you can eat as a treat (top left); boats on Titicaca (top right); one of forty islets on Titicaca (bottom left); islanders in their traditional clothing (bottom middle); various types of roots, pulses, and grains eaten in Peru (bottom right).

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Photos: peruvian landscapes often look mystical (top); an event in Cuzco, where the locals carry rainbow flags, which is the symbol of native Indians (bottom left); the cathedral in Cuzco (bottom middle); Pisac, one of the most important fortresses of the empire (bottom right).

PERU

and the life habits of the islanders, they will take you for a ride in their traditional boats, made of the same material as the islands. Finally, you will be able to buy a handmade souvenir, of course.

In touristic Cuzco tip: There are many kinds of tourist packages offered for touring Cuzco, its attractions, and the surrounding area.

It is best to take the package that covers all the sites.

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After a few relaxing days on Lake Titicaca, we were ready to conquer the Incan Empire, which, in contrast to the Spanish Conquest, was extremely friendly. The long bus ride was supplemented with neck muscle exercises, where we often turned our heads left and right since the scenes of the Andes are irresistible. We entered Cuzco through a newer part of town, so at first glance it seemed that it was yet another South American city, not anything special. However, Cuzco's treasures are hidden in the historical center, as are the tourists, more and

more every year, and they have already reached the number of two million per year. Cuzco is a true tourist destination where, for the first time after three weeks, we saw McDonalds and Starbucks.

Everything is packed with hotels, bars, stores, travel agencies, restaurants.

Everyone would like to make a living off of just living in the city.

Legend has it that Cuzco was established by the first Inca, Manco CĂ pac, who was created by the Sun God Inti sometime in the 12th century, when he realized that people needed to be "brought into shape". Manco probably had no idea that his community was to become the oldest continually inhabited city of South America, and that the Incan Empire was one of the largest ever. That transformation occurred about a hundred years before the Spanish conquistadors, and was initiated by king (which is the

translation of the word "Inca") Pachacutec with the conquest of Titicaca and the Andes highlands, and his son, Inca Túpac Yupanqui, stretched the borders all the way to Ecuador on the north and Santiago de Chile on the south.

At the salt pools At the time, the most important fortresses of the empire were established, with Cuzco as the center of the Sacred Valley. Sacsaywamán, which represents the puma head in the Cuzco map, can be visited on foot. We shared local buses with locals rushing to the market and schoolchildren on their way to school to visit the other places. Pisac, with its rectangular terraces and famous market, Moray with its circular terraces, and Salinas with its thousands of salt pools, where even the Incas used to harvest salt.

It is also worth having a look at what is left of the Indian constructions of Cuzco after the Spaniards used most of the building material to build churches, convents, and palaces. There are mixed feelings about this because the Spaniards did a good job and left behind magnificent buildings: a cathedral flanked on both sides with smaller churches, the St. Catalina convent with many paintings of the Cuzco school, the la Merced convent with depictions of the life of St. Pedro Nolasco.

Once we had already had enough of the Inca and the Spaniards, we came across my favorite Peruvian museum, Museo de Arte Pre-Colombino, which reminded us that the Incas didn't come from out of nowhere, but that they were just one of the great civilizations of this continent.

After four days in the Sacred Valley, we were ready for the peaks that followed.

Photos: the Sacsaywamán fortress with its inhabitants, llamas (top left); the Pisac fortress is known for its rectangular terraces (top right), and the Moray fortress for its circular terraces (bottom left); the Salinas location with thousands of salty pools, where even the Incas harvested salt (bottom right).

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Photos: the "Inca trail", and old path that connected the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu (top left); photos taken on the "Inca trail" (top right); preparing meals in the tent (bottom left); there are many fortresses along the path to Machu Picchu (bottom right).

tip: Before you pay for the "Inca trail", check the number of the agency with the official list of approved agencies at: www.machupicchu. gob.pe

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PERU

Following in the footsteps of the ancient Incas The main question at the beginning of our preparation for our trip to Peru was: "To take the Inca trail, or not?"

Four days of hiking up the old path that connected the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, three nights of sleeping in tents, reaching an altitude of 4200 meters, and as a reward, an early morning view of the most famous archeological site in both Americas, is the adventure of a lifetime for many. Only five hundred luck individuals have the chance daily. For us, seasoned hikers, it didn't take long to come to a decision. The bigger problem was finding a reliable agency, since it is difficult to find our way through the "forest" of agencies and sub-agencies.

Our group was small: six tourists and one guide. But together with the carriers for

our tents, sleeping mats and backpacks, and the cooks that pampered us with three lovely meals daily, we looked like a true expedition. All we had to do was walk, enjoy the nature and touring the many smaller and larger fortresses on the way. Although by the end of the third day we were already tired and dirty, our moods were lighter than ever. Our cooks even managed to make a cake on the gas stove, we got our final instructions, exchanged contact information.

Everything was ready for the next morning.

Mystical Machu Picchu When you see Machu Picchu from a distance for the first time, you have the feeling that you have fulfilled one of your great childhood dreams. For the first few seconds you even think it is a backdrop

like one of those you could see in photo studios in the eighties. However, as you get closer, you become aware that you are truly one of the lucky ones to see it after the American, Hiram Bingham, revealed it to the world in 1911, and came back for years to organize clearing the area overgrown by a dense forest.

Peruvians are still angry that Bingham took most of the artefacts he found back with him, and today it is the subject of a dispute between the country of Peru and Yale University, where the artifacts are.

Machu Picchu is not mentioned in a single record of the Spanish conquistadors so the meaning of the place still isn't completely clear. Bingham was actually looking for the last fortress of the Incas, called Vilcabamba, which was later found closer to the jungle.

Some believe that Machu Picchu was abandoned before the arrival of the Spanish, others believe it was built to preserve Incan traditions from the violent conquistadors, while a third group thinks it was a royal retreat. Due to the large number of paths found that lead through Machu Picchu, today the theory that says it was an important commercial center that connected the Amazon jungle and the plateau where the Incas lived is at an advantage. We toured Machu Picchu for hours: the Temple of the Sun, the only circular building, the Royal Tomb, the main square, the Condor Temple, cascade of ceremonial baths, the rock quarry that enabled the construction. Truly, not a single photo can express the magnificence of that place. Finally, everyone finds their own place (ours was next to hungry llamas) to take some time for the impressions to settle in.

Photos: arriving at Machu Picchu, the sacred city of the Incas, is a childhood dream of many (top); Machu Picchu isn't mentioned in a single record of the Spanish Conquistadors and the purpose of the place still isn't completely clear (middle); today, tame and gentle llamas are the only inhabitants of Machu Picchu (bottom).

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Photos: one of the streets of Arequipa, a city they also call Ciudad Blanca (top left); causa, a popular Peruvian dish made of potatoes and avocado, which you can learn to make in a one-day course (top middle); a local market in Arequipa (top right); the wingspan of Andes condors reaches up to three meters (bottom left); the Colca canyon in the Andes (bottom right).

After an entire day of excitement, more followed. A hot shower in the hotel after four days of minimum hygiene. And a soft mattress.

White city and condors

tip: When taking longer trips through South America, it is best to travel in extremely comfortable night buses. In that way, you can save time and money for accommodations.

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After the "Inca trail" we were ready for something else. UNESCO decided to protect Arequipa, also known as Ciudad Blanca, for its magnificent colonial churches, convents, and palaces, built in white stone mostly in the 19th century after a strong earthquake in 1868. On the way, we met various interesting people such as a couple who waited for the chance to take a boat to Antarctica in the south of Chile for two weeks.

Exchanging information while travelling is always helpful. So we also found out about a one-day cooking school, and since, besides being hikers, we are also

passionate cooks, after touring the local market we learned to prepare causa and lomo saltado. As the old saying goes: "Good news travels fast", and many people back home couldn't wait for us to return.

Since my friend is also an animal lover, we headed over to the Andes. It was neither easy nor quick to reach Colca canyon, but once the condor flying show starts, you forget all the hours of "bouncing around" in old buses.

When flying, the condors in the Andes, with wingspans of up to three meters, use hot air to help them, so only the bravest fly a few short circles in the morning. As the sun goes up, so do they, in ever-greater numbers. It is an indescribable feeling when dozens of condors start flying like kamikazes, and the exclamations of thrilled or frightened tourists fill the air.

The story of guano After spending several weeks at altitudes above 2500 meters, the time came to descend. The goal was to reach the Ballestas islands, the source of Peru's main export product in the 19th century. Various birds inhabit the island, including the first penguins I ever saw living in the wild (to be more precise, Humboldt penguins), as well as sea lions and seals, which completely ignored us, and weren't even slightly disturbed in their afternoon naps by the sound of our boats. The excursions offered are very detailed and informative, and I was especially thrilled by the story of guano, bird droppings which accumulated over centuries (if not for millenniums) on the boulders of the island. Guano is rich in nitrogen, so Peru made a fortune exporting it as fertilizer worldwide, before scientists came up with new ways of enriching soil.

Finally, Lima Tourists either start or end their trip to Peru in Lima. I'm not sure if Lima can be called "the cherry on top", but the one day that travel agencies usually designate for it definitely aren't enough.

Lima has many historical sites, such as Huaca Pucllana, a site showing Lima's culture from the 5th century, as well as numerous museums. Amongst them is the especially popular Larco which boasts the best collection of pre-Columbine pottery. What Lima has, and Cuzco doesn't is the ocean, the powerful Pacific.

And the long seaside promenade full of skyscrapers with expensive apartments, shopping centers, runners, surfers, bars, restaurants, regular people, tourists.

Everyone. The lights of Lima bid me farewell on my return home, after 80 days spent on the other side of the equator.

South America has definitely found a special place in my traveling heart. ď ś

Photos: birds on the Ballestas islands (top left); penguins are one of the island's inhabitants (top middle); a candle-shaped geoglyph, which they connect with the Nasca culture, on the Ballestas islands (top right); the cathedral in Lima (middle); the long seaside promenade, which is full of shopping centers, bars, and restaurants, is one of Lima's touristic charms (bottom).

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