tip Travel magazine Croatia 021 (English edition) 12/2017 - 02/2018

EN

tipTravel

ISSN: 1849-059X

www.tipTravelMagazine.com

CROATIA

Travel and tourism magazine

Number 21 • Year V • December 2017 - February 2018

INFORMATION • RECOMMENDATIONS • EXPERIENCES

Issue topic:

Advent and winter Dubrovnik-Neretva County, BjelovarBilogora County, Baranja

World:

Top 10 destinations

for New Year's celebrations

Come one, come all to the

192nd Samobor Carnival!

Krka National Park: Water that shapes waterfalls • tips4you Laughter is the best medicine • Vodice: Winter wellness at the sea

UNESCO:

St. Nicholas Fortress

Digital travel and tourism magazine www.tipTravelMagazine.com

Get ready for an exciting journey and find out why the magazine is read in more than 120 countries worldwide.

Traveling is even more interesting with tipTravel magazine!

© fotolia

TIpS FoR A RESpoNSIBLE TRAvELLER #travelenjoyrespect

International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development To mark the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) issued a promotional video and manual "Tips for a Responsible Traveller".

See them here.

IY2017 Travel.Enjoy.Respect. (English)

© World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

ABOUT THE MAGAZINE

INTERACTIVE FEATURES Along with the active links in textual form, which lead to certain websites, the magazine also contains active links marked with icons, and by clicking on them, you can open: - additional websites - various social networks - blogs - YouTube video content - Google locations - 360° virtual tours - live cameras that transmit videos of the destination in real time - an online shopping basket

tipTravel magazine is the first Croatian online travel and tourism magazine, which is exclusively in digital format and available to all readers free of charge. It has been issued in Croatian and English since July 2013, and in German as of 2015.

It is designed for readers in Croatia and abroad who are avid travelers.

In each issue, through original reports and photos, it introduces readers to Croatian coastal and continental destinations and their diverse and rich tourist offer, it reveals the less known facts, brings tourism news, announcements of events and festivals that shouldn't be missed, and first-hand advice and recommendations.

The second part of the magazine is dedicated to presenting global destinations and their travel offer.

More information can be found at www.tiptravelmagazine.com, where you can also find a direct link to all the issues. The magazine can be read online on all computers, tablets, and smartphone devices via the Issuu.com website or application.

On iOS devices (iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch), the magazine can be downloaded free of charge in the AppStore, where the application has additional interactive features to enable an even higher quality reading experience. To find it, simply type in 'tiptravel' in the AppStore.

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

When you come across the App Store or Google play icon, you can download applications by clicking on them.

The users of the tipTravel magazine iOS Newsstand application also have two exclusive additional interactive features:

enlarging certain photos across the entire screen (full screen preview)

interchanging multiple photos (slideshow)

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tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

tipTravel magazine bears the Green Mark, the leading Croatian sign of excellence in green business, and was the winner of three prestigious Croatian Creative and Innovative Sustainable Tourism Awards in 2014.

NEWSLETTER

EDITORIAL Travel and tourism magazine ISSN: 1849-059X Publisher: Tip Kreativa d.o.o.

Jordanovac 119, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia +385 1 2348488 +385 91 7958016 info@tiptravelmagazine.com www.tiptravelmagazine.com www.facebook.com/tiptravelmagazine VAT ID Number: HR21136573248 Erste&Steiermärkische Bank d.d.

SWIFT: ESBCHR22 IBAN: HR4524020061100663844 Editor in Chief: Željka Kunštek zeljka@tiptravelmagazine.com Graphic Editor: Robert Kunštek robert@tiptravelmagazine.com DTP: Tip Kreativa d.o.o.

Associates in this issue: Mirela Drkulec Miletić, Petra Škofić, Vlatka Vužić Translator: Marija Crnogaj

Travel. Enjoy. Respect.

T wenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Explore. Dream.

Discover! - wrote American writer and humorist Mark Twain, whose wise quotes we often think of. This holiday season is a great opportunity to do something for yourself, something you have wanted to do for a long time, and even more importantly - for others, so that both you and they can feel a bit warmer around your hearts. The end of the year is also the right time to look back at the past 12 months, take a short trip back in time and see if we have managed to fulfil our plans and dreams at least to some extent. However, it is even more important to do something and treat ourselves for the many successes we had and the good deeds we did in 2017, and we are sure there were many. If you are adventurous, treat yourself to a nice trip - to a favorite place, or to somewhere

you haven't been yet - it truly doesn't matter where. It's important to move on, discover and explore, broaden your horizons and tolerance, all while respecting other cultures and nations, their customs and way of life, natural and cultural heritage, and to accept diversity.

Wealth lies within it. Besides, as Seneca said long ago, travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind, which is what we truly need in the upcoming year.

In this issue, we have once again prepared ideas and recommendations for traveling, this time for winter, Advent, and New Year's. Discover them on the upcoming pages. With the desire that your New Year be filled with, above all, health, peace, and love, we leave you with an important message that the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) left for all of us in 2017, the year of sustainable tourism: "Travel. Enjoy.

Respect." Željka and Robert Kunštek

Marketing: marketing@tiptravelmagazine.com Photo source: tipTravel magazine archive, archives of Croatian Tourist Boards, PHOTOnet.hr, fotolia Cover page: photo: Julien Duval / Zagreb Tourist Board

Transmission of texts, in full or in part, is only permitted with the written approval of the publisher and 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 publisher. The publisher cannot guarantee the permanence of published information, and is not responsible for the content of advertisements.

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Content © Dubravko Lenert / Dubrovnik Winter Festival

© Davor Kirin / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

December 2017 - February 2018

© Nenad Milić / Baranja Tourist Board

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8-9 NEWS - CROATIA 10-19 ISSUE TOPIC - Advent and Winter: In Croatia's idyllic Advent  Dubrovnik-Neretva County:

18-19 © Tonči Lučić / Zagreb Tourist Board

© Dubravko Lenert / Dubrovnik Winter Festival

10-19

The enticing aromas and flavors of Christmas (12-15)

 Bjelovar-Bilogora County:

The Christmas story taking the world by storm (16-17)

 Baranja: Advent in Baranja (18)  Bilje: Enchanting winter in

Baranja (19)

20 ADVENT - Zagreb: Advent on Vranicanijeva poljana

12-15 6

22-23 HISTORICAL TRACES - Zagreb: Music pavilion on Zrinjevac

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

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24-25 ANNOUNCEMENT Samobor Carnival: Come one, come all to the 192nd Samobor Carnival!

26 TIPS4YOU: Don't miss out...

28-29 BEAUTIES OF CROATIA Krka National Park: Water that shapes waterfalls

© fotolia

not a single tree has been destroyed in publishing this magazine

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© lhw.com / Kanuhura, Maldives

© fotolia

34 © Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

24-25

30-31

Environmentally Friendly

© fotolia

© Edin Tuzlak / Samobor Tourist Board

The option to show photos in fullscreen view is available to users of the tipTravel magazine iOS Newsstand application on iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch devices.

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36-37 CULTURAL SCENE Interview - Mia Dimšić: A colorful life 38-39 NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS - WORLD 42 PRESENTING - A book: Dražen - The Years of the Dragon

44-59 WE'RE TAKING YOU TO...

The top 10 New Year’s celebrations: Top 10 destinations for New Year's celebrations 60 WORLD ATTRACTIONS Cologne (Germany): A magnificent cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge

30-31 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Vodice: Winter wellness at the sea 32-33 UNESCO: St. Nicholas Fortress 34 ANNOUNCEMENT World Laughter Day: Laughter is the best medicine December 2017 - February 2018

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News

CROATIA

A record-breaking 100 million overnight stays recorded in Croatia

On the importance of security in tourism at SIGTur In 2018, Eurowings to fly to all Croatian airports

By the end of 2017, Eurowings, a low-budget airline, plans on transporting more than 900 thousand passengers to and from Croatia, or 60 percent more than in 2016, and in 2018, with new flights to all Croatian airports, they expect more than a million passengers.

"Over the next four years, Eurowings, as a part of the Lufthansa group, has big plans for Croatia, which is in our network of countries with the largest percentage of growth. In 2018, we plan on increasing our market share in Croatia, but also in Europe", said regional manager for Eurowings, Markus Leopold.

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© Impressum komunikacije

© Lufthansa Pixels

Zagreb © Igor Nobilo / Zagreb Tourist Board

Dubrovnik © Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

In the last weekend of October 2017, Croatian tourism achieved historical tourism results.

The long announced and awaited record of 100 million overnight stays was recorded for the first time in Croatian history and in the eVisitor system that contains tourism transactions achieved in commercial and noncommercial accommodations and in nautical charters. "We are incredibly proud that we have achieved such a large and historical number, and in doing so have once again confirmed that Croatia is truly a top tourist destination", said Croatian Minister of Tourism, Gari Cappelli.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

In Croatia, security greatly contributes to good results in tourism, but in order to keep it at a high level, cooperation and prevention are incredibly important, and more needs to be invested in them - as was pointed out at SIGTur, an international conference on security in tourism held on November 16 and 17, 2017 in Zagreb. At the conference, there were discussions on security as the key element in choosing travel destinations, practical issues in the protection and safety of tourists at tourist destinations and in tourism accommodations, but also on other topics related to tourism as one of the most important parts of the economy.

Air Canada: Zagreb - Toronto Air Canada has announced its list of direct flights it will introduce in the summer of 2018 from Toronto and Montreal, which will include three new destinations in its global network - Zagreb, Porto, and Bucharest. Flights to Zagreb will leave Toronto every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from June 2 to October 6, 2018.

Air Canada flights will depart from Zagreb to Toronto every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday from June 3 to October 7, 2018.

© Volotea

This winter, nearly half of all Croats will travel abroad Volotea introducing a Split - Palermo flight

The Spanish low-budget airline Volotea has announced its summer flight schedule for 2018. Along with flights to Venice and the French cities of Marseille, Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Nantes, the novelty is the line between Split and Palermo on Sicily, which will fly once per week on Wednesdays, starting June 27, 2018.

A smaller Boeing 717-200 airplane will fly on that line.

Around 46 percent of Croatian citizens plan on travelling abroad this winter, and most of them plan on travelling for Advent, followed by those who plan on going away for New Year's or for skiing.

That is according to research conducted by Mastercard and the GfK Center for Market Research.

The results showed that Croatian citizens travel more for pleasure than for business, and that they mostly travelled on vacation throughout Europe.

© Croatian Camping Union

On November 7, 2017, at the WTM fair in London, the new promotional video for the Croatian National Tourist Board was presented for the first time. The video was filmed at various recognizable locations in Croatia, and includes ten well-known and famous people from the world of sports and arts, including Luka Modrić, Marin Čilić, 2Cellos, Maksim Mrvica and Zrinka Cvitešić. The aim of the video was to position Croatia on the international market even better through famous, successful people and promote the cultural and historical heritage, food and wine, active holiday, nautical sports, natural beauty, and other segments of Croatian tourism.

Vienna, Austria © Stadt Wien Marketing GmbH / EurocommPR

© CNTB

New CNTB promotional video presented

Campers increased spending According to research results from the Institute for Tourism, in 2017, campers in Croatian camps spent a daily average of 60.4 euro, of which 31.3 euro was for accommodations, which is 26, or 24, percent more than in 2014, when the last similar research project was conducted. The research also shows that the average age of campers is 42, and that nearly 50 percent of tourists come to Croatian camps with their families. As far as their method of transportation is concerned, most (40%) arrived by car with trailers, followed by those who came just by car, with mobile homes, and by plane. They pointed out their greatest motivation for coming to camps in 2017 was for passive holidays and relaxation, along with new experiences and adventures, food, and natural beauty.

December 2017 - February 2018

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Issue topic

ADVENT AND WINTER The Advent ambiance on Stradun, Dubrovnik's most popular street; Sleigh rides with Santa Claus are a joy for the youngest family members; A children's performance in Konavle.

© Dubravko Lenert / Dubrovnik Winter Festival © Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board © Agr itourism of Konav

le

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tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

ADVENT AND WINTER Dubrovnik-Neretva County, Bjelovar-Bilogora County, Baranja

CROATIA

In Croatia's idyllic Advent Text: Željka Kunštek

© Bjel

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From the north to the south, and from the east to the west of Croatia, there is not a single place that doesn't celebrate Advent in its own special way.

Still, they all share the pleasant, peaceful ambiance accompanied by the sounds of Christmas carols and bells, illuminated with thousands of sparkling lights and candles, and infused with the aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, hot chocolate, cloves, mulled wine, and delicious treats. Everywhere you go, you will also find the complementary abundant offer at the holiday fair and plenty of events. This winter, immerse yourself in Croatia's idyllic Advent.

© d n iri ora oar r K og B vo Bil rist Da var- ou T o el nty u Co Bj

Unique Christmas ornaments can be found at Christmas fairs throughout Croatia; The Christmas Story at the Salaj family estate.

December 2017 - February 2018

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ADVENT AND WINTER: Dubrovnik-Neretva County

© Dubravko Lenert / Dubrovnik Winter Festival

© Dubravko Lenert / Dubrovnik Winter Festival

© Dubravko Lenert / Dubrovnik Winter Festival

Issue topic

The enticing aromas and flavors of Christmas This winter, find many cultural and entertaining events and superb traditional delicacies and wine in the far south of Croatia.

During Advent, the most popular street in Dubrovnik, Stradun, will be a stage for many events.

Find the most beautifully decorated Christmas tree in Dubrovnik with the help of an application as a part of the "Christmas Tree Mapping" project.

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Text: Mirela Drkulec Miletić ◆ Photos: Dubrovnik Winter Festival, Dubrovnik Tourist Board, Agritourism of Konavle, tipTravel magazine

Dubrovnik

The true spirit of the Renaissance city of Dubrovnik can best be experienced in the winter. Whether the rain glistens on the stone-paved streets or whether the winter sun shines on the impressive walls and towers, Renaissance palaces, and citizen's homes, Dubrovnik will reveal its true charm for which it got the name "the prettiest city in the world". On one hand, you will be mesmerized by Dubrovnik's history, and on the other by the modern, superbly furnished luxury hotels and villas, pleasant cafés, and fantastic restaurants in the city and the surrounding area.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

Being in Dubrovnik during Advent is a special experience. When the old city is decorated, it is even more beautiful, and the Christmas spirit is spread with various cultural and entertaining events.

It all starts on Saturday, December 2, with a big celebration to open the 4th Dubrovnik Winter Festival. The first Advent candle is traditionally lit early in the evening, while the city is illuminated with thousands of Christmas lights. That is followed by a concert by a great pop star, Gibonni, in front of the church of St. Blaise in the widest and most famous street in Dubrovnik, Stradun. From the beginning of the festival all the way to Christmas, a plentiful music program

© Dubravko Lenert / Dubrovnik Winter Festival

Dubrovnik Coast

With its picturesque coves, churches, and Renaissance summer homes, the beautiful Dubrovnik Coast invites you to come and rest during Advent. Try seafood specialties in taverns and restaurants of the area and enjoy the Christmas

that brings an air of old-fashioned customs in the time before Christmas will be brought alive by many klapas that will carol in the city streets. Lively performances by the Linđo folk dance group will, along with organized tours of the city, mark Saturday mornings during Advent, and the famous Gundulićeva poljana will be brought alive with a plentiful selection of Christmas goods at the booths. There are many more fun events in store, like the humanitarian "Cake Party" on Stradun on December 9. The festival also brings the joy of the holidays to children with plenty of theater performances, an ice rink, holiday train...

Kolendavanje (caroling); Cake Party; Folklore performances and concerts during Advent in Dubrovnik; An Advent wreath around the Small Onofrio fountain.

© Dubravko Lenert / Dubrovnik Winter Festival

will take place on Stradun, and for the New Year's celebration, the entertainers include Dino Merlin, Pravila igra, and Songkillers. On the first day of the new year, the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra will perform a celebratory program precisely at noon, and on December 22, the same orchestra will have a special Christmas concert with guests. There are also other cultural events, such as the large international exhibition of the renowned contemporary photographer Ahmet Ertug, which will open in the Dubrovnik Art Gallery on December 14.

In Dubrovnik, Advent isn't Advent without the traditional custom of "kolendavanje" (caroling). The unforgettable experience

atmosphere offered by the "Coast for Christmas" festival. There you will find classical music and klapa concerts while children will be delighted with theatre performances of the Christmas fairytale.

December 2017 - February 2018

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Issue topic

ADVENT AND WINTER: Dubrovnik-Neretva County

Konavle The "Scents of Christmas in Konavle" will bring together several events; Spending Advent on the island of Korčula is a special experience.

Explore Konavle, a lively area near Dubrovnik. The 10th "Scents of Christmas in Konavle" festival has already become a tradition and invites you to get together for the holidays from December 23 to 30. The festival is opened with the "Cavtat Time Machine Kolenda" where actors will bring important historical people from the area to life, followed by a rich cultural, entertaining, and educational program.

Still, the event that attracts the most attention is the Open Days of Konavle's Agritourism", on December 29 and 30.

Don't miss out on the chance to visit family estates, taverns, and restaurants in Konavle where you will find pleasure for all the senses - beautiful nature, delicious homemade delicacies, such as green menestra, and superb Konavle wine.

The town of Cavtat will also offer you relaxation to the sound of the waves and a view of the lush Mediterranean vegetation and beautifully landscaped villas and hotels. The "Advent in Cavtat" festival will take place from December 15 to 31 and visitors will be able to choose from plenty of musical, cultural, and traditional events, such as priklijada, kolenda, klapa evenings, and the like.

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

Korčula

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tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

Visit nearby Korčula, Marko Polo's island, which will delight you with timeless beauty, rich historical heritage, and the harmony of nature, the sea, and architectural heritage. Experience the holiday ambiance on Korčula, taste local delicacies at the fair of island products in the town of Korčula, listen to the unique singing style of Korčula's klapas, and don't miss out on the midnight mass at Korčula's cathedral of St. Marco. 

Dubrovnik and Surroundings ˇ Korcula Mljet Pelješac Lastovo Neretva

© k ni d ov ar br Bo Du rist u To

www.visitdubrovnik.hr

December 2017 - February 2018

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ADVENT AND WINTER: Bjelovar-Bilogora County

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Issue topic

The Christmas story taking the world by storm In the winter wonderland of the Bjelovar-Bilogora County, you will find the center of Croatian Christmas, illuminated with a million lights, which attracts visitors from various parts of the world every year.

Text: Petra Škofić Photos: Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

The Salaj family's Christmas Story; The music pavilion in Bjelovar is a stage for many events.

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Grabovnica

When the most magical time of the year beautifies the cities and villages with snowflakes, enticing aromas of winter delicacies, lovingly made ornaments, and the irresistible laughter and joy of children, head over to the idyllic BjelovarBilogora County. For the past 16 years, the biggest and most beautiful Christmas story in Croatia has taken place in the tame hills and valleys of the area.

Streams of happy visitors from various parts of the world come to the estate of the Salaj family, which celebrates the most magical part of the year in a special way. When the cool December sun sets, and the picturesque landscape of the little village of Grabovnica are gently tucked in to the blue tones of the night, a fairytale image appears. The Salaj family estate is illuminated by 2.5 million

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

lights, creating an enchanting winter wonderland that is hard to imagine, even in your wildest dreams, and is reported on by many international TV networks. Besides the light show, the magical atmosphere is also enhanced by an ice rink, an Advent village with local products, daily fireworks, and an abundant offer of food, supplemented by a sweet and salty house.

Bjelovar

The center of Christmas events, in the Bjelovar-Bilogora area is the city of Bjelovar. The newly renovated music pavilion on the main city square, which acts as a venue for elaborate events is the heart of all activities. While there, through all of December and early January, expect to see concerts, plays for children, folk dance performances, and workshops, and this year a special

feature is a large ice rink. While you stroll through the charming illuminated streets, stop by the booths run by Bjelovar's craftsmen. There you will find licitar hearts, gingerbread, Christmas ornaments, and many other traditional souvenirs and treats.

Daruvar

© Davor Kirin / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

The Christmas spirit will also take over the streets of Daruvar. The magic starts with the lighting of the first Advent candle on the main city square, and the rest of December is in the tone of many traditional cultural and entertaining events: concerts, creative workshops,

Bojana

Special Christmas magic will take over the town of Bojana, near Čazma. There, Galerija Matešin brings together art and tradition in a unique way with a depiction of traditional Christmas in the village. The gallery is illuminated with traditional Christmas lights - candles, lanterns, and an open fireplace. Without electricity, and illuminated with the light of a thousand candles, the youngest guests can have a look at the nativity scene and search for candy in the straw. Warm yourself up with warm tea and homemade products from OPG Matešin in the enclosed terrace of the gallery decorated with artwork and there you will also find an amphitheater with a small historical museum. 

© Davor Kirin / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

© Davor Kirin / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

© Miran Husak / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

the arrival of St. Nicholas and Santa Claus.... The heart of Christmas in Daruvar is the traditional magical Christmas in Mala ulica towards Julijev Park where, after visiting the craft and souvenir fair and buying original gifts for your loved ones, you can seek refreshment in the tempting flavors of winter delicacies from the Bjelovar-Bilogora area - cakes, mulled wine and beer...

During Advent, you can tour Bjelovar in a horse-drawn carriage; Advent in Daruvar; Bojana's Christmas in Bojana.

You can enjoy the Salaj family's Christmas Story daily from December 1, 2017 to January 14, 2018, from 3:00 to 9:00 pm. The "Christmas in Bjelovar" event will take place from December 3, 2017 to January 7, 2018, weekdays from 5:00 to 9:00 pm, and on weekends from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 5:00 to 11:00 pm. Enjoy the Christmas fair in Daruvar from December 18 to 23, daily from 5:00 to 10:00 pm, and in Bojana's Christmas in Bojana from December 2, 2017 to January 6, 2018.

Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board Dr. Ante Starčevića 8 43000 Bjelovar, Croatia  +385 43 221928 info@tzbbz.hr

www.tzbbz.hr

December 2017 - February 2018

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Issue topic

ADVENT AND WINTER: Baranja

Advent in Baranja

Text: Petra Škofić Photos: Nenad Milić / Baranja Tourist Board

Petlovac, Darda, Kneževi Vinogradi, Beli Manastir The warmth of Advent in Baranja awaits you at four locations: in Petlovac, Darda, Kneževi Vinogradi, and in Beli Manastir.

Holiday ambiance and plenty of events are a main feature of Advent in Baranja.

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Baranja Tourist Board Kralja Tomislava 70 31300 Beli Manastir, Croatia  +385 31 702080 info@tzbaranje.hr

www.tzbaranje.hr

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aranja's Christmas story starts in Petlovac where visitors of all ages will be delighted with the depiction of a live nativity scene that will bring the true spirit of Christmas to life. December's celebrations continue at the estate of the Esterhazy family castle in the town of Darda. Besides a diverse offer at the Christmas fair and an entertaining program in which the children from Darda's preschool and school participate, visitors can make Christmas wishes and release a lantern for each of them at the nearby lake.

The Christmas magic continues on in Kneževi Vinogradi with a concert on an organ built by Josef Angster in the Church of St. Michael the Archangel.

Instruments made by that highly regarded organ maker from Baranja can be found in churches and castles throughout Croatia. His most famous piece adorns the basilica of St. Stephen in Budapest, and he also participated in the construction of the organ in Notre Dame in Paris.

The peak of Christmas celebrations in Baranja await you on the main city square in Beli Manastir. Under the

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

colorful lights of the real Christmas tree, you will find traditional souvenirs made by the hard-working hands of Baranja's locals, the aromas and flavors of Baranja wine and delicious homemade delicacies, along with a lavish music program. Romantic souls can take a blanket-covered ride through the streets of Beli Manastir, illuminated by fireworks and the glow of lantern in Baranja's December sky. Don't forget to make a wish of your own because they often come true during the magical time of Christmas! 

Have a look at the Advent in Baranja program by clicking here:

© Tomislav Horvat / Bilje Tourist Board

© Tomislav Horvat / Bilje Tourist Board

© Hrvoje Domazetović / Bilje Tourist Board

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Enchanting winter in Baranja

This winter, experience Baranja, its idyllic landscapes, flavors, and aromas which are particularly evident in Bilje, a rural corner in eastern Croatia.

© Restaurant Darocz / Bilje Tourist Board

© Restaurant Didin konak / Bilje Tourist Board

be held as part of the program. The aromas of homemade mulled wine and delicious, spicy sausages will be offered by many associations from the municipality, and the visitors can warm up with the sounds of tamburica music, DJs, and dance studios. Culinary experiences will be supplemented with the unavoidable krofne and langošice, gingerbread, and the scent of pines.

It is best to spend the cold winter days and nights in one of the six magnificent restaurants that offer famous delicacies from Baranja: cracklings, fish paprikash, pork shank with sauerkraut, homemade sausages, dishes made with game...

For dessert, the pokladna krofna is an unavoidable staple. Kod zlatnog bunara, Didin konak, Kormoran, Citadela, Darocz, and Kod Varge are restaurants that will also delight you with an offer of wine that pairs nicely with winter specialties made with meat and fish. 

Text: Bilje Tourist Board Photos: Bilje Tourist Board, "Kopački rit Nature Park" Public Institution

© Tomislav Horvat / Bilje Tourist Board

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irdwatching in Kopački rit Nature Park, riding in a horse-drawn carriage through idyllic winter landscapes, touring Tvrđa, the old city center of Osijek, and enjoying the flavors of Baranja's delicacies will also make your trip to Baranja in the winter enchanting. The abundant and diverse offer of rural tourism options and accommodations, priceless experiences that nature offers in the winter months, and superb gastronomy are just some of the advantages of the Municipality of Bilje, in that rural part of eastern Croatia, infused with Baranja's charm. The year will end in Bilje with many events taking place before Christmas.

The interesting and diverse Advent program will take place in the Christmas Village, and the charity campaign "Children for Children", started at the beginning of the year, in collaboration with the Ekotour association, will also

Winter landscapes in Bilje; Delicacies from Baranja can be tried in one of the six restaurants in the area of the Municipality of Bilje.

Bilje Tourist Board Kralja Zvonimira 10, 31327 Bilje Croatia,  +385 31 751480 info@tzo-bilje.hr

www.tzo-bilje.hr

December 2017 - February 2018

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Advent on Vranicanijeva poljana An enchanting corner of Zagreb's Advent also awaits you on the Upper Town, next to Lotršćak Tower. Surrounded by the idyllic atmosphere of Vranicanijeva poljana, enjoy culinary delights, listen to performances by jazz musicians and DJs, buy a unique holiday ornament for your loved ones, or treat yourself to one.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

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Get to know - the paprenjak Honey, walnuts, and pepper those are the main ingredients of paprenjak, a traditional Croatian cookie that famous Croatian writer August Šenoa dedicated attention to in his first book, which was also the first Croatian historical novel, "The Goldsmith's Gold". Make sure to taste that sweet and peppery cookie while you're in Zagreb, and if you would like to give your dear ones a truly original souvenir from Zagreb upon returning home, the paprenjak is truly a great choice.

Your hotel in the heart of Zagreb W

Hotel Dubrovnik, Ljudevita Gaja 1, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia,  +385 1 4863501 / 503 info@hotel-dubrovnik.hr, reservations@hotel-dubrovnik.hr, www.hotel-dubrovnik.hr

© Hotel Dubrovnik, Zagreb

© Filip Popović / Hotel Dubrovnik, Zagreb

events. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, the hotel offers a warm, friendly atmosphere, traditional Zagreb charm, and the opportunity to feel the pulse of the dynamic Croatian capital. The hotel offers every guest much more than just a comfortable room in the heart of the city - it will be your best host in the very center of the city! 

© Hotel Dubrovnik, Zagreb

ith its 4 stars, Hotel Dubrovnik has been welcoming guests since 1929, and with 214 rooms and eight suites, it guarantees the perfect balance of tradition, classical beauty, excellent service, and modern facilities in the heart of Zagreb. The unique location makes it the perfect choice for business conferences, banquets, business dinners, meetings, press conferences, and other

PROMO

December 2017 - February 2018

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ZAGREB

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Historical traces...

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Prepared by: Željka Kunštek Photo: R. Pavić / Zagreb Tourist Board

Music pavilion on Zrinjevac W hile walking through Zagreb, a must-see site is Zrinjevac, one of the most beautiful parks in the city, located near the main city square, Trg bana Jelačića. Although it attracts attention all year long, it is especially charming in the winter, when the Christmas fairytale is held under the lights of thousands of white lights that hang from the tall plane trees.

Since 1891, the central spot of the park has been adorned with the music pavilion, which wealthy tradesman Eduard Prister had built and gave to Zagreb. It was

designed by Herman Bollé, the famous architect that designed many buildings in Zagreb. From the time it was built to today, the pavilion has been the venue for promenade concerts and performances, and during Advent, the sounds of Christmas classics and waltzes resonate through the park. While you enjoy those sounds that take many visitors back in time, taste holiday treats and other delicacies, prepared according to tried-and-true recipes, which will entice you from the charming wooden houses scattered throughout the park. 

Advent on Zrinjevac

© www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

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tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

December 2017 - February 2018

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Announcement

SAMOBOR CARNIVAL Text: Samobor Tourist Board Photos: Edin Tuzlak / Samobor Tourist Board

Come one, come all to the nd 192 Samobor Carnival!

From February 2 to 13, 2018, Samobor will once again be taken over by costumed characters and visitors will be entertained by Princ, Sraka, Sudec, and Fiškal.

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he Samobor Carnival, the oldest and largest carnival in this part of Europe, will celebrate its 192nd anniversary from February 2 to 13, 2018.

Over the course of two weekends and on Mardi Gras of the Free Carnival Republic, costumed visitors of all ages will find something to do.

The central venue for all carnival events will once again be Kralj Tomislav Square, Matice hrvatske Square, Kleščićeva Street, and the square next to the post office.

Alongside an abundant entertaining program, you will also find ETNOcest with local council centers, SRAKAfest, SRAKOtrk, and plenty of programs for children. In the daily events from morning to late at night, more than 24

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

4500 performers will take their place on the main stage: 3300 children in parades, dance groups, choirs, members of local councils with more than a dozen allegoric floats, 500 carnevalists from Croatia and abroad, and many other performers.

Visitors will be entertained by the traditional carnival characters - Princ, Sraka, Sudec, and Fiškal - who will endlessly comment current social topics and tease the costumed visitors. The most creative costumes will be awarded valuable prizes, and all the details on how to participate and the carnival program can be found on the official website www.fasnik.com and on the Samobor Fašnik social network profiles. All you have to do is circle the weekends from February 2 to 13 on your calendar and remember the old saying from Samobor: "Fools have a carnival every day, and the wise only during Carnival". 

Check out the FaĹĄnik program at:

www.fasnik.com

www.samobor.hr December 2017 - February 2018

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Christmas fair and New Year's party in Split

© Petar Kurschner / Opatija Tourist Board

t... u o s s i m t ' Don

© Split Tourist Board

u o y 4 s tip Advent and the Chocolate Festival in Opatija

© Opatija Tourist Board

Once again, Advent in Opatija (December 1, 2017 - January 14, 2018) offers plenty of concerts, workshops, performances, ice skating... In early December, from the 1st to the 3rd, Opatija will become the sweetest city in Croatia. Taste various forms and creative varieties of chocolate at that time in Opatija's cafés, restaurants, and hotels.

Split's promenade and Strossmayer Park will play host to the Christmas fair (December 1, 2017 - January 9, 2018). As is tradition, the largest New Year's party in central Dalmatia is expected on the promenade, and great fun is guaranteed with performances by Joško Čagalj Jole and the Mjesni odbor and Gustafi bands.

www.visitopatija.com

www.visitsplit.com

In January 2018, Sljeme will once again become the unavoidable meeting place for fans of skiing. If the weather is right in Zagreb, the first race of the "Snow Queen" World Ski Cup will take place on January 3, while the second race will be on January 4.

Festivity of St. Blaise

www.tzdubrovnik.hr

www.snowqueentrophy.com

© Renco Kosinožić / Premisa

The Festivity of St. Blaise (February 1-9, 2018), intangible cultural heritage protected by UNESCO, is a unique festivity that has been celebrated in the same way for 1046 years - with Catholic ceremonies and a magnificent procession through the streets of the old city center, along with many other events.

© ZagrebDox

© Dubrovnik Tourist Board

Snow Queen Trophy

ZagrebDox Besides offering a competitive program, the ZagrebDox international festival of documentary films (February 25 - March 4, 2018) also offers several noncompetitive programs, films focused on certain topics, genres, techniques, and aesthetics, which makes it a unique festival in this region. www.zagrebdox.net

tipTravel magazine is not responsible for decisions made by event planners regarding changes in schedules, performers, programs, or in case the event is cancelled. So, in order to find out the details for the event you are interested in, click on the link below the announcement.

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tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

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Weddings with a view

n irresistible view of the sea and magnificent sunsets, all surrounded by the aromas of Mediterranean herbs, is an ambiance that many desire for their dream day with the one they love to imprint in their memory forever in the most

beautiful way possible. You can find that landscape, and so much more, if you decide to entrust the organization of your wedding to experts with more than 127 years of expertise in tourism and the organization of various events.

Jadran d.d., with its five hotels in Crikvenica and nearby Selce - Esplanade, Omorika, Katarina, Slaven, and Kaštel, await you with a wonderfully designed ambiance that exudes romance, elegance, and sophistication, while the friendly hotel staff will take care of even the slightest details. The wedding halls with a view of the sea can seat up to 250 people with whom you would like to share your greatest memories, and your guests will surely be pampered by the flavors of delicious traditional dishes,

along with dishes you would like to see on your tables that day. Superb service, and a fantastic ambiance, which is also a great backdrop for attractive photos, are a tried-and-true recipe for your dream day in that part of the Mediterranean. 

Jadran d.d. Crikvenica, Bana Jelačića 16, 51260 Crikvenica, Croatia

 +385 51 800480, vjencanja@jadran-crikvenica.hr, www.jadran-crikvenica.hr

December 2017 - February 2018

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KRKA NATIONAL PARK

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Beauties of Croatia

Water that shapes waterfalls As a karst phenomenon, the Krka is a very special river; in it, deep canyons cut into the rocky landscape, alternating with rapids, travertine waterfalls, and parts where the river calmly flows.

Text and photos: "Krka National Park" Public Institution

The Krka is a special river for many reasons, and equally attractive all year long.

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lthough it flows above porous travertine, the Krka doesn't lose a large amount of water to ground water, and so it never naturally dries out. Its canyon looks as if it has always been so, but actually, just like the planet Earth has constantly changed for eons, so has the Krka, which, while looking for its path, over time cut its way deep into the hard travertine rocks.

The Krka canyon is younger than the surrounding flatlands because in the past, during the last Ice Age, the Krka was a great and mighty river that found its way to the sea. The current appearance of the canyon was formed over the past ten thousand years, when the erosive power of the river weakened, and so the right conditions for the creation of travertine barriers developed. Kninsko polje is the area richest in water, and at its edge, in a cave at the foot of the Topoljski (Krčić) waterfall, at 224 m above sea level, is the source of the Krka River. The Krka River starts where the Krčić River ends.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

Annually, the Krka basin collects around 1250 mm of precipitation. The most rain falls in the winter period, while the summers are very dry. The water level of the Krka is at its highest in November and March, and at its lowest in August.

The highest water temperature of 27.5°C was recorded at Skradinski buk on August 25, 2011, and the lowest, 3.5°C, on January 12, 1985.

The basic phenomenon of the Krka National Park is travertine, from limestone dissolved in the water, which has formed seven enchanting travertine waterfalls down the entire course of the river. Travertine is common in the surface flows of the Dinaric karst, but it rarely forms waterfalls such as the ones on the Krka. The formation of travertine is a constant, dynamic process of the mutual reaction of physical and chemical factors and living organisms in the water. Travertine can only form in water where there is enough soluble calcium hydrogen carbonate. In order to form travertine barriers, living

Krka National Park is famous for its enchanting waterfalls, along with its many crystal clear lakes.

organisms that have the ability to retain the dissolved calcium carbonate and form the travertine deposits are essential. With the help of algae, calcium carbonate clings onto clumps of moss and encrusts itself on them. So travertine is formed in the most diverse forms. As moss grows, the sedimentary area grows, and so the travertine also grows. Skradinski buk is the longest travertine barrier in the Krka River.

The growth of Skradinski buk's travertine barrier caused the pooling of the water of the Krka River up to Roški slap, and three kilometers of the lower stream of the Čikola River,

so creating one of the most unusual and beautiful landscapes of the Krka National Park. Water from both the Krka and Čikola flows over the 17 steps of Skradinski buk, over a distance of 800 meters. The ruins of an ancient gravitational aqueduct that took water from the source of the Krka River to ancient Scardona, are also located at Skradinski buk. The first public waterworks in the city of Šibenik were built in 1879, and water was taken from the Jaruga spring at Skradinski buk. Today, water from the Krka River is still used to supply water to the Šibenik-Knin County. 

Although Croatia is fifth in Europe for its renewable sources of water, it is wrong to believe that water reserves are limitless. Water is a unique and irreplaceable natural resource, which is limited in quantity, and not equally available in all parts of the world. Today, more than a billion people lack access to adequate amounts of water. It is the responsibility of all of us to work together to preserve the treasure of water in stone.

December 2017 - February 2018

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© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

VODICE

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

Experience Croatia

Winter wellness at the sea Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life in relaxing spa centers, and find excitement at races and regattas.

Text: Mirela Drkulec Miletić Photos: Vodice Tourist Board

© Hotel Olympia Sky / Vodice Tourist Board

Vodice's Olympia Sky and Punta hotels have a superb wellness and congress offer; The indoor pool at the Olympia Sky hotel.

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ave you ever thought of going on winter vacation at the sea?

Although many imagine it at a ski resort on a snow-covered mountain, this winter discover the charms of winter holidays at the sea, with crashing waves and temperatures that nearly never fall below zero. Walks on the beach are just as attractive on colder days, especially when you are warmed by the winter sun, which is still warm enough.

Take a blanket and a good book, find a place on the beach, and enjoy the unforgettable view, intoxicating aromas, and the soothing sounds of the waves in a truly natural wellness center.

That is what awaits you in Vodice, located in the very heart of Dalmatia and a dozen kilometers northwest from the charming renaissance city, Šibenik.

There you will find everything you need for total relaxation and to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life - fantastic hotels with a selected offer of food, and an abundant wellness and

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

spa program, picturesque surroundings perfect for excursions, restaurants with Dalmatian and international specialties, various events, and those who long for sports and adrenaline activities will also find something to suit them.

If you are a fan of wellness and relaxing in spa zones, Vodice is the place for you.

You will be delighted by the carefully designed interior of the wellness and spa centers in Vodice's Olympia Sky and Punta hotels. There you will find an indoor heated pool and a large offer of sauna, massage, and cosmetic treatments, along with soft music, the aroma of essential oils, salt, and bath oils - a true oasis for relaxing and restoring the energy of the body and spirit.

Those two hotels in Vodice are also a favorite venue for congresses, seminars, business gatherings, team building, and similar events, and they offer everything needed for such gatherings - from congress halls and audio-visual technology to fantastic food.

© Kalogjera / Vodice Tourist Board © Franco Cogoli / Vodice Tourist Board

© Petar Grgurev / Vodice Tourist Board

Vodice has an abundance of attractive trails, which are also perfect for Nordic walking. Head out to one of them.

races in 2017, will be held. The winter running league is growing in popularity amongst both amateur and professional runners. Its unique ambiance comes from the trail that leads through 'škrapa', gravel roads, country roads, and alongside dry stone walls, so that runners enjoy the race, but also the refreshing beauty of nature. The next season of the league is expected to start in January 2018.

In the winter months, Vodice also attracts fans of Nordic walking, as well as those who just like to enjoy relaxing walks by the sea. 

Attractive regattas are one of Vodice's trademarks; Vodice is growing in popularity amongst fans of Nordic walking.

Vodice Tourist Board Obala Vladimira Nazora b.b.

22211 Vodice, Croatia  +385 22 443888 info@vodice.hr © Vodice Tourist Board

Sailing buffs know a lot about the Vodice regatta, which attracts attention with an exciting, tense, unpredictable competition, along with the visually attractive scene of white sails on the rough blue sea. One of the best known is the legendary Jabuka regatta, which is also the largest international offshore regatta that takes sailors down a 110-mile-long Vodice - Jabuka - Vodice course.

At the end of 2017, on December 23, the exciting finals of the Island Trail League, which wrap up a series of five running

www.vodice.hr

December 2017 - February 2018

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Nich olas Fortr ess

ST. NICHOLAS FORTRESS, ŠIBENIK

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Prepared by: Željka Kunštek

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s of July 2017, the St. Nicholas Fortress in Šibenik has been added to UNESCO's List of World Heritage Sites as a cultural site part of the Venetian Works of Defense of the 15th-17th centuries, more precisely, as part of a collection of defensive works in the territory formerly part of the Venetian Republic. The 16th century fortress, recognizable for its triangular floor plan, was designed by Venetian military

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

builder Michele Sanmicheli. It is located on a rocky islet at the entrance to the Šibenik Channel and was once the city of Šibenik's first line of defense from the sea. The fortress is considered to be a superb example of the development of the innovative, "alla moderna" model of fortification architecture, as well as an incredible achievement of architecture in the late Renaissance, and one of the strongest fortifications in the Adriatic. 

December 2017 - February 2018

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Laughter is the best cosmetic for the body and the best medicine for the soul.

(Phil Bosmans)

© fotolia

WORLD LAUGHTER DAY

© fotolia

Announcement

Peace begins with a smile.

(Mother Theresa)

By nothing do men show their character more than by the things they laugh at. (Johann Wolfgang von Goethe)

Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine.

(George Gordon Byron)

© PHOTOnet.hr

© PHOTOnet.hr

Laughter is the best medicine Did you know that World Laughter Day is celebrated twice a year - on January 10 and on the first Sunday of May? Still, you should laugh a lot every day - find out why.

Text: Željka Kunštek

A day without laughter is a day wasted. (Charlie Chaplin)

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orld Laughter Day was established in 1998 by Madan Kataria with the slogan "Laughter is the best medicine". The Indian man proved that laughter is the best medicine against many ailments, especially against stress, which we are exposed to on a daily basis. Many doctors and scientists worldwide agree with him and they claim that laughter will make us feel better, think in a positive way, reduce stress and depression, boost immunity, and finally extend our lives, and so they warmly recommend laughter to everyone every

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

day. That is also the goal of World Laughter Day to motivate people to laugh as much as possible and to remind them of the importance of the activity that activates 15 facial muscles.

Research has shown that children laugh between 200 and 300 times a day and adults just 12 to 17 times per day. Interestingly, people used to laugh an average of 18 minutes per day, and today, unfortunately, just six minutes. If we take into account claims by doctors that a large number of illnesses are caused by stress, one of the best recipes that they can recommend is laughter in unlimited amounts. Every day.

Even if you don't see those you love or your business partners often, you can send them a smile with a happy voice over the phone or by text or email, and you should make sure to end each message with a popular smile emoticon :) 

m

Estetska stomatologija za neodoljiv osmijeh

PROMO

Smile for success

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he effect of the first impressions and physical appearance we leave on one another upon first glance is well known. Verbal communication, where we see the face and mouth of those we speak to, is just as important as non-verbal communication. It is then that our smiles and teeth come into view, and if they are yellow, damaged, or missing, the other person will surely notice. Those first impressions often deprive people of an opportunity for a new job, friendship, or romantic relationship. Luckily, thanks to esthetic dentistry, that has greatly changed.

Not only will esthetic dentistry improve your look, but it will also directly affect the quality of your life, improve your

self-confidence, preserve your oral health, and help you leave a great first impression on other. Over the past few years, the popularity of cosmetic procedures has been on the rise and has offered countless opportunities for improving the look of teeth, and a true specialist in that field is the Dentum Clinic in Zagreb, one of the most successful dental clinics in the field of esthetic dentistry.

As far as professionalism and quality are concerned, at Dentum there is no room for compromise. At that clinic, which is everything but ordinary, emphasis is placed on esthetics and the most sophisticated results in creating the perfect smile for your face.

That is precisely what makes that clinic stand apart from the others on the market. One of the most soughtafter services from the "smile factory" in the field of esthetic dentistry is the cosmetic makeover, which is conducted by Dr. Petar Bago, the leading expert in esthetic dentistry in Croatia and the region, who is specialized in creating and forming smiles according to facial features. So if you aren't satisfied with your smile, don't hesitate a moment. Head over to Dentum and let the experts take care of your smile. 

Dentum, Gradišćanska 36, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

 UK line: 020 376 939 73, DK line: 078 772 137, smile@dentum.com, www.dentum.com

December 2017 - February 2018

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CULTURAL SCENE CULTURAL SCENE 36

Mia Dimšić

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colorful life

The talented, young Slavonian woman can credit her musical success to her songwriting talent, but also to her work ethic and the positive energy she exudes, with which she brightened up the Croatian music scene.

Y Conducted by: Vlatka Vužić Photos: Krume Ivanovski / PROMO Mia Dimšić

our hit song "Život nije siv" (Life is not gray) has been successful on the domestic music scene. How has that affected you considering that everything went very quickly and that you are one of the youngest famous Croatian musicians?

It took me some time to get used to all the changes in my life that occurred in just a year, and I must admit I'm still getting used to it. Everything that happened is fantastic and in many ways

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

a dream come true, but it also has its disadvantages. I'm constantly on the road, I live a much less healthy life than before, I sleep less... On the other hand, I have a job I love that fulfills me, and that is a great joy and rarity so I try to remind myself of that when things get difficult.

Most importantly, I still have the same best friends, family, and hobbies in my life.

Your lyrics send important life messages to your listeners. What

CULTURAL SCENE MIA - ŽIVOT NIJE SIV (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

In 2017, Mia won the most respected Croatian music award Porin for the best music video for the song "Život nije siv" (Life is not gray).

Mia Dimšić, © 2016 CROATIA RECORDS

message would you send to your Slavonians, and what colors would you use to describe Slavonia?

I didn't understand how special Slavonians are until I started spending a lot of time outside my region.

Slavonians have a recognizable "family-oriented" way of thinking, hospitality, warmth, and personal connections, and that's what I love most. The only thing we lack are more action and will, less lethargy, and optimism. That's exactly why I like spreading that kind of vibe in my songs. Such an approach brings along success, and I would like to motivate as many people as possible to express themselves in such a way. The colors that remind me of Slavonia are, as expected, gold, earth, and pastel tones.

Your music has already taken you to many stages throughout Croatia.

Do you see any differences between the audiences?

You sang one of the songs on your album in English. Have you thought about breaking through to the foreign market?

I have a degree in English and German so English is very natural for me, and I easily express myself. I find the idea of breaking through to the foreign market attractive and I have some material in English ready. Who knows what the future holds, I think I have to work hard to make every dream come true, give it my all if an opportunity arises, and then even if I don't succeed, I will be satisfied and calm.

Do you have a list of destinations you would like to visit?

I love to travel, and I have been travelling since I was little because I spent ten years in a folk dance ensemble, and seven years with a tamburica orchestra with whom I went to performances abroad, which definitely positively shaped me and broadened my horizons. I would really love to visit Australia. 

Would you like to win Mia Dimšić's CD "Život nije siv" (Life is not gray)? Write us why and send your answer to contest@tiptravelmagazine.com The authors of the two most original answers will receive an album as a gift.

The winners of the CD from the previous issue: Dajana Dusper (Zagreb, Croatia); Marin Miočić (Zadar, Croatia).

December 2017 - February 2018

CULTURAL SCENE

If you were asked to recommend an itinerary for a tour of Slavonia and Baranja, what would you say is something that must be experienced?

I think most of the sites would be abandoned cabins, mountains, rustic restaurants, wine cellars... Places that are as calm, unknown, and cozy as possible because today people need peace and quiet to reconnect with one another. We are surrounded by a huge quantity of information, technology, and packed schedules that are slowly but surely ruining us.

I see differences, and it impresses me.

In some places the audience imposes itself and suggests certain things, and sometimes I really have to work hard for us to connect. My audience is generally filled with children so after the concert we always organize photo opportunities and autograph signings that are accompanied by a loud, playful, crazed atmosphere.

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News and announcements

WORLD

The Mediterranean expects 420 million tourists by 2020

© lhw.com / Grand Hotel et de Milan, Milan, Italy

© lhw.com / Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Over the past seven years, the hotel industry in Europe has recorded a 3.5 percent increase.

Besides the fact that tourists spend an average of 2 percent more on hotel services per person, the demand for specialized services in certain niches has also been recorded. For example, it is expected that wellness resorts in Europe will record a 50 percent increase in the next few years. Due to that, hospitality in Europe is currently facing a transformation process in order to adapt to new trends and demand. tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

For years, wedding tourism in Italy has recorded constant growth, and just in 2017 it brought Italy revenue in the amount of nearly 386 million euros. A total of 19.4 percent of couples that spend an average of 8.4 days in Italy decide to have luxurious ceremonies.

The largest number of them come from the USA (24.1% of all couples), followed by couples from Great Britain and Germany.

The weddings are usually held in Tuscany (24.4%), Campagna (16.9%), and Veneto (10.5%). In 16 percent of the situations, the newlyweds chose Italy as the destination for their wedding due to the fantastic offer of food, but also for the beauty of the locations (11.3%), and the attractiveness of the Italian lifestyle (10%).

© WTM, London

Italy collected 385 million euro from wedding tourism

The hotel industry in Europe is on the rise

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© lhw.com / Hotel Bahia del Duque, Tenerife, Spain

At the third Mediterranean Resort & Hotel Real Estate forum, there was discussion about the Mediterranean as the main tourism region in the world with 32 percent of international arrivals and 30 percent of revenue. Thanks to investors, such as those investing in traffic infrastructure, the Mediterranean tourism market has recorded constant growth and it is forecasted that in three years a total of 420 million tourists will visit that region. Popularity has especially grown in the northern Mediterranean, especially in traditional tourism countries, such as Spain. At the forum, there was also word on tourists who are becoming increasingly demanding consumers due to the influence of digital technology.

WTM: Sustainability and "overtourism" among the main topics In 2018, the world tourism and travel industry hope that growth will continue, which seems possible thanks to the excellent tourism results from 2017 - as was emphasized at the WTM, held in London from November 6 to 8, 2017.

Among the main topics at the market was the question of sustainability while managing tourism and "overtourism". There was also discussion on terrorist attacks and the effect of Brexit on the British tourism industry.

Luxury travel growing in popularity

300 billion dollars annually for Halal travel Due to the growing number of airports, restaurants, and hotels ready to offer accommodations and services in accordance with Muslim customs, the number of halal trips is growing. It is expected that over the next decade young Muslims worldwide will double the amount they spend on travel. They are consumers with greater access to funds looking for more exotic experiences and distant destinations than their parents do. Although they spend less money per trip than older generations, they travel more often during the year, and so their total spending is greater. Most young Muslim travelers come from Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Turkey, and there is also a growing number from Indonesia, Egypt, and Kazakhstan.

The Second UNWTO/ UNESCO World Conference on Tourism and Culture The Second UNWTO/UNESCO World Conference on Tourism and Culture organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and UNESCO will be held from December 11 to 12 in Muscat, the capital city of Oman. There will be discussion on strategies for the sustainable development of cultural tourism that, through the preservation of cultural heritage, creates socio-economic advantages for the local community. Methods of strengthening partnerships between the tourism and culture sector will be explored, and the results from the first World Conference on Tourism and Culture held in Cambodia in 2015 will be analyzed.

© lhw.com / Thanda Island, Tanzania

© lhw.com / The Chedi, Muscat, Oman

© lhw.com / Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

© lhw.com / Kanuhura, Maldives

Over the past few years, luxury travel has recorded double growth in comparison to international travel. The popularity of luxury travel is booming, especially among American and Chinese tourists who choose France, Germany, Italy, and Great Britain as their luxury destinations in Europe, along with the USA and Canada outside Europe. A total of 75 percent of such trips include visits to friends and family. The most popular are visits to cities and vacations at the beach, and a total of 40 percent of such trips are reserved through travel agencies.

African destinations most interesting Foscrot Travel agency conducted a survey on the habits of passengers from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Serbia, and Montenegro that showed that most of those questioned would prefer to visit African countries, followed in popularity by Asian and South American countries.

Most travelers spend an annual average of 8 to 14 days on trips outside their own countries, which they mostly decide to go on two to three months before departing. Most travel in a group with friends, and when choosing accommodations, price is the most important factor. They find inspiration for their trips with the help of search engines.

December 2017 - February 2018

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Beautiful nature

NORTHERN LIGHTS

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Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) One of the most beautiful scenes in nature is definitely Aurora Borealis, known as the Northern lights. They appear from mid-October to March near the North Pole, and you can enjoy that magical light show from Sweden, Norway, Finland, Canada, Alaska, Iceland, Denmark, and Scotland. One of the most popular destinations to watch that natural phenomenon from are the Lofoten Islands in Norway, which, at the time the northern lights are most visible, are visited by many photographers who wish to record that magnificent scene.

#LifeChangingPlaces Lofoten: Tanz mit dem Eismeer

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tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

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© Lufthansa Pixels

© Lufthansa Pixels

PROMO

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© Lufthansa Pixels

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For premium travel I n the cold, winter months, the Lufthansa Group - Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings - awaits you with hot offers: flights to 288 destinations in 106 countries worldwide. From late October 2017 to March 24, 2018, travel to one of your long-desired destinations, and the selection is truly vast. So, amongst other destinations, Lufthansa is introducing flights between Berlin and New York five times weekly and from München to Peking, while also flying to Pamplona, Bari, Reykjavik, Palermo...

Swiss will take you to São Paolo and Niš, while Austrian Airlines will take

you to exotic Seychelles, Mauritius, the Maldives, Havana... Eurowings will fly from Cologne/Bonn to Cape Town, and from Düsseldorf to the attractive Caribbean. Brussels Airlines will take its passengers to ten sunny destinations including, among others, Cabo Verde, Egypt, and the Canary Islands.

Starting in March 2018, Austrian Airlines is preparing a true treat for its passengers on long flights called Premium Economy Class. Travelling in that class will offer you greater comfort thanks to more comfortable seats and more leg room, and if you would like to turn your seat into a workstation, it takes just a second to do so! Thanks to outlets and USB

connections, you can easily plug in your laptop or other device, and the additional room will also help you store other things. The class offers 12-inch monitors that can offer you greater enjoyment of audio and visual content while flying the skies. Your trip will also be enriched with delicious bites of Austrian gastronomy, and one of the advantages of flying in that class are two pieces of luggage (each up to 23 kg) per person.

In March 2018, another attraction will arrive from Brussels Airlines, which will, as part of the Belgian Icons project, paint one of its (Airbus A320) airplanes with a Smurf motif. 

LH.com December 2017 - February 2018

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Presenting

A BOOK

Dražen - The Years of the Dragon The book reveals neverbefore-told details about the "basketball Mozart", who is still an inspiration for many people for books, films, and in life.

Click here to buy the book:

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Text: Marjan Crnogaj

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quarter of a century after the tragic death of Dražen Petrović, the first true European NBA star, his star continues to shine brightly.

Moreover, today many fans of the historical basketball era when the "basketball Mozart" composed his best work on court claim that one of the rare white players who didn't back down from Jordan would still have something to show on court in the NBA.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

Dražen is still irrevocably intertwined in the lives and the memories of all of us who lived with him, alongside him, and for him. He was fearless on court and tireless in the gym and at practice. As a great role model, he showed us the path through the difficult transitional period from the break-up of Yugoslavia to the formation of Croatia. Through countless statements from witnesses of that time and carefully selected quotes, the book "Dražen - The Years of the Dragon" paints a true picture of the path of the "kid from Šibenik" who took his endless passion for the ball and the game, which grew mostly thanks to his daily hard work, overcame all his fears and prejudice, and transformed it into a fantastic international career that is now described in books, and filmed in documentaries and feature films.

Over the course of 472 pages infused with statements from more than 80 living witnesses of Dražen's era and 679 footnotes, authors Marjan Crnogaj and Vlado Radičević delved into the well-known path of Dražen's career and gave us answers to many questions we always wanted to know the answers to: Did Dražen have any idols?; What was he like in school?; Why didn't he go to university in the USA?; Why didn't he go to the NBA earlier?; Where would he have continued his career?

The selection of photos in the black and white paperback edition includes exactly 50 photos, which are complemented by many never-before-seen photos from Getty Images' rich archive, along with those from the private archives of legendary photographers Radiša Mladenović and Renato Branđolica. For the first time, pictures from the legendary game where Dražen scored a recordbreaking 112 points against Olimpija on October 5, 1985 have been published!

This incredible book that bears the dedication "For the Captain for his 53rd birthday", which some have already ranked at the very top of non-American basketball literature, is the result of more than six years of hard work of the team of authors and so represents an important reference point for all potential future pieces of work on the legendary Captain.

Life flies, Captain! 

© Blue Nautica

One of a kind in the world: an underwater Path of the Cross © Emirates / Media Val

In 2017, Croatia gained another attraction - an underwater Path of the Cross, a one of a kind occurence in the world.

Its first stop is on the seabed in the Jelinak Cove near Trogir.

Life-size concrete statues were made and placed at at depth of four to ten meters. The project was designed by Joško Kandija, owner of the Blue Nautic diving school in Trogir, and Valentino Valent, owner of Lončarstvo Val pottery shop in Petrinja.

Are we there yet?

While flying, the youngest passengers need just 49 minutes and 47 seconds to ask "Are we there yet?". While parents try to entertain their children as long as the can, Emirates Airlines has joined forces with Dr. Sandi Mann, a psychologist and boredom specialist at the University of Central Lancashire, to help them with that. Dr. Mann collaborated with the company to establish the Child Boredom Quotient (CBQ), which helps parents determine the precise moment children get bored and so allows for longer, stress-free flight enjoyment.

Source:

www.croatiaweek.com

PROMO

Two unforgettable parties: the Smurfs or Hollywood Glam?

© Thermana Laško

© Thermana Laško

and accommodations in a double room include half-board, unlimited enjoyment in the hotel's incredible waterworld, access to the fitness center, and an entertainment, recreation, and relaxation program. To ring in the New

Thermana Laško,  +386 3 423 2100, info@thermana.si, www.thermana.si

Year, choose from two unforgettable New Year's parties - Smurf-themed at the pool, or a Hollywood Glam gala dinner. The program also includes everything listed above, with a surprise gift at the New Year's dinner. 

© Thermana Laško

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his year, spend the holidays in a different way and experience the Christmas Wonderland, located just an hour and a half drive from Zagreb. You will find it in Thermana Laško from December 22 to 29, 2017,

December 2017 - February 2018

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THE TOP 10 NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATIONS

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tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

One of the happiest days and nights in the year is fast approaching and you still don't know where you're going to spend it? You know the basics - good company is the most important factor for a great party, and that's something you'll have to take care of yourself, and we bring you ideas for the next two factors that will make you remember New Year's 2018 forever - destinations that guarantee a good time for New Year's.

Top 10 destinations for

Text: Željka Kunťtek

New Year's celebrations December 2017 - February 2018

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THE TOP 10 NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATIONS

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December 2017 - February 2018

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The "City of Lights" will start off the New Year in a glamorous and spectacular way, and its most famous symbol - the Eiffel tower - will then become the backdrop for spectacular fireworks and light shows. On that night, one of the most famous streets in the world, Champs-Élysées, will play host to a large street party that offers an abundance of champagne and delicious treats. The somewhat calmer Montmartre offers a great view of the fireworks, while romantics will decide to enjoy their New Year's dinner with live music on one of the many boats that will cruise the Seine that night.

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THE TOP 10 NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATIONS

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London fo to

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December 2017 - February 2018

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One of the world's capitals, London, is a great place to ring in the New Year. Traditionally, the New Year's countdown is held around Big Ben, and precisely at midnight, the sky is illuminated by spectacular fireworks.

Besides in pubs and clubs, thousands of visitors and locals await the New Year on the streets, along the banks of the Thames, and on illuminated bridges, and the party continues on January 1 in the streets and on the squares of London at the traditional London New Year's Parade, which is surely one of the largest street shows in the world. Hundreds of performers, including musicians, costumed dancers, actors, fans, and clowns from all over the world participate in the parade of color, games, and music, and it is also an opportunity to see the parade of royal horses.

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THE TOP 10 NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATIONS

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New York There are few cities in the world that are not envious of the contagious New Year's fever that takes over New York. The city that truly never sleeps will confirm that once again on New Year's Eve, when millions of people traditionally gather on Times Square to enjoy the performances of famous musicians and the dropping of the big crystal ball down the pole. Loudly, joyously, hilariously... that is how New York, its locals, and its guests will ring in 2018.

December 2017 - February 2018

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THE TOP 10 NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATIONS

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Amsterdam

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"Venice of the North" and the banks of its channels are the venues for many spontaneous street parties, and if you would like to go to an organized outdoor party, head over to Rembrandtplein, Nieuwmarkt, Museumplein, and Dam Square. Plenty of fireworks will illuminate the sky above the Dutch capital, and they can best be seen from one of the bridges. After the light show, the party continues to the wee hours of the morning in many clubs with drinks and live music.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

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Edinburgh All those who have already been a part of Hogmanay, a special Scottish tradition of celebrating New Year's over the course of three days, say you have to experience it at least once in your life. The party starts on December 30 with a torch-lit procession through town that culminates with spectacular fireworks.

The New Year's festival continues on New Year's Eve with a massive street party and concerts under the starry sky, while at midnight there are fireworks above the Edinburgh castle and Princess Street. On the first day of the New Year, the bravest take a swim in the cold Forth River, while others warm up with good music at the outdoor street festivals. Don't forget to seek refreshment in one of the many pubs that work at all hours of the day and night during those days, and raise a glass of beer or famous Scottish whisky in honor of the New Year.

December 2017 - February 2018

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THE TOP 10 NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATIONS

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There are two reasons you should ring in the New Year in Sydney: the first is its location that gives it the position of the first city in the world to enter the New Year, and the second is the largest firework show in the world - one starts at 9:00 pm, and the other at midnight. The backdrop for that pyrotechnic spectacle are, absolutely logically, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Another integral part of the New Year's celebration are air and water shows that include aerial acrobatics, and an illuminated fleet of more than 50 boats.

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The Maldives

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You have wanted to visit the exotic Maldives for a long time, but haven't managed to make your wish come true?

Visit them for New Year's and pamper yourself with a vacation on stilted houses, swimming in turquoise seas, sunbathing on white sandy beaches, drinking fruity cocktails, and the gala New Year's dinner with many island and international specialties that many resorts prepare for their guests. On the other days, you can try some of the water sports, diving and admiring the corals, and swimming with dolphins... However, visiting the Maldives includes a negative factor - you will be miserable when the time comes to leave the islands, a true piece of paradise.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

December 2017 - February 2018

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St. Petersburg

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Although tourists mostly occupy it during the time of the magnificent "White Nights", in late May and early June, when there is nearly a total lack of complete darkness, and the streetlights aren't even turned on, St. Petersburg deserves to be visited for New Year's as well. Its streets and bridges, covered in snow and illuminated with thousands of lights, give the city an even more romantic look, and touring its many museums will be even more enjoyable then since there aren't many crowds at that time of the year. ErmitaĹž, an exquisite museum of culture and history, also one of the largest museums in the world, is surrounded by many locals and their guests awaiting fireworks on that night. When the hands of the clock overlap at midnight, the locals raise a glass of champagne and release hundreds of paper lanterns with good wishes.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

December 2017 - February 2018

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THE TOP 10 NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATIONS

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Finnish Lapland

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In contrast to parties on the squares and in the streets in cities worldwide, you will experience an entirely different New Year's celebration if you head north to Finnish Lapland. In the town of Nellim, you will find a true nature adventure - a snowmobile safari, visiting a reindeer farm, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing on snow through forests. Evenings are reserved for hunting for aurora borealis (Northern Lights) on snowmobiles, on foot through the snow, or by minibus. Still, keep in mind that success is never guaranteed, but thanks to the low light pollution in Nellim, and the enthusiasm and knowledge of local guides, there is a great chance that you will truly see that magnificent light show in the sky.

tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

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December 2017 - February 2018

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Central World Square in Bangkok is the place to gather en masse on New Year's Eve. Besides a great fireworks show, the New Year's celebration also includes outdoor concerts, while you can also see New Year's celebrations worldwide on the big screens that are set up for that purpose. After the fireworks show, the party moves to the night clubs and bars to the wee hours of the morning. After a good night's sleep, take some time to visit some of the many temples and large royal palaces, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and for cruising through klongs (canals - streets), and reserve the evening for a visit to the Patpong night market and enjoying some of the delicious Thai specialties.

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World attractions

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A magnificent cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge One of the most famous symbols of Cologne and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Germany is the Gothic cathedral dedicated to St. Peter and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Its construction took more than 600 years, and at the time it was completed it was the tallest building in the world. The cathedral is inscribed on UNESCO's list of world heritage sites in Europe, and its spires offer a fantastic view of the city, especially in the evening hours.

The cathedral also looks incredibly enchanting from the outside at that time and, together with the Hohenzollern Bridge that crosses the Rhine River, it is one of the most photographed motifs in the city.

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tipTravelMagazine December 2017 - February 2018

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