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News Stories 2009

Croatia Opening Up To Gay Tourism   31/08/2010

The Croatian Times has reported on the growing interest in Croatia as a holiday destination for gay travellers, noting a recent visit made by 2,800 gay tourists to the fashionable city of Dubrovnik.
According to Vanja Berc, co-owner of a travel agency in Pula, Rovinj is now replacing Pula as the top destination for gay travellers. Ms. Berc says that the gay population now accounts for around 5% of Croatia's tourists, which amounts to a figure of around 400,000 people.
Gay activist, Dalibor Stanic feels that Croatia is now more welcoming to gay people, and says it would be good to have more agencies catering for them, an idea promoted by Ms. Berc who says "it would be a shame if Croatia did not take advantage of the interests of that population."
The ancient fishing port of Rovinj is known as 'the pearl' of the Adriatic coastline. A treasury of cultural and historical monuments with plenty of attractions and beaches close to hand, it simply oozes Mediterranean chic.
Source: Croatian Times
Our Guide To Istria  

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Croatia Showing Growth In Tourism   30/08/2010

According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), Croatia may be one of only 2 Mediterranean countries to record positive tourism results this year, registering a 5% increase, with all other Mediterranean countries, including Spain, recording a decrease.
In response to the positive results for visitors to Croatia in July and August, Minister of Tourism, Damir Bajs stressed the importance of continuing with the holiday season; "We must work to the end of the season. Our guests must receive good service and a smile in the post-season."
September and October are fantastic times to visit Croatia; crowds are lighter, accommodation and flights are more affordable and coastal regions are still enjoying a temperate Mediterranean climate.

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Travel Writer Reports On The Garden Festival, Zadar   24/08/2010

Travel writer, Anne Kapranos recently returned from a week exploring the beautiful Dalmatian coast and islands, during which time she attended Zadar's hottest musical event, The Garden Festival, held in the sleepy fishing village of Petrcane. 
In a detailed article published in Scotland On Sunday, Ms. Kapranos describes The Garden Festival as "small and perfectly formed", highlighting the friendliness of her fellow festival-goers, including a large contingent of British and Scottish travellers, and describing her experience as a fantastic way to enjoy music "in the sunshine, surrounded by cool, like-minded people." Spending part of her time sipping champagne and dancing into the early hours of the morning, the travel writer enthuses that festival-cations are the way to go!
Festival-cations are a growing trend, allowing travellers the opportunity to combine a holiday in the sunshine with a chance to listen to their favourite bands and DJ's. Croatia has an excellent selection of musical festivals, including the INmusic festival, held in Zagreb - featured as one of the best music festivals in the world by Time Out magazine, and The Outlook Festival held in Pula, the largest dubstep and bass culture Festival in Europe.
Read the article in full  .......
Our Guide To Zadar

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Rafting Makes A Splash In Croatia   22/08/2010

An article written by top flight company, Jet2Flights reports on the growing popularity of rafting in Croatia, an activity which it states "presents travellers with the opportunity to explore the picturesque landscape that characterises Croatia."
Referring to the ease and availability of hiring rafting equipment, lessons and excursions, the article also highlights the fact that Croatia is "blessed" with numerous rivers offering the ideal terrain for a host of water-based sport pursuits.
The 4 rivers of Karlovac - the Dobra, Mreznica, Korana and Kupa, offer some of the best canoeing, kayaking and rafting destinations in Croatia; the Dobra river in particular is one of the best locations in Europe. The Cetina river is also a favourite with water adventurer.
Active Tourism In Croatia 
                                  
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Tennis Ace Holidays On Hvar Island   19/08/2010 

The former world number one tennis champion, Jennifer Capriata has been photographed looking tanned and happy sunbathing on Croatia's beautiful Hvar Island.
The former Wimbledon semi-finalist is holidaying on the island, located off mainland Split, with friends, including Croatian tennis player, Iva Majoli.

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** 15% Reduction For Booking Period 15.08 - 30.09! **

Grab a fantastic opportunity to rent a brand new, modern 1 bedroomed apartment in fashionable Dubrovnik for just over 21 Euros p/p per night! Apartments Peric have slashed their normal daily rates by an amazing 15% to just 85 Euros per day for any booked period between 15.08 - 30.09. Comfortably sleeping up to 4 guests, the bright and spacious apartments are very well presented and boast all modern conveniences. Sun, sea and comfort at a bargain price!

For more information search property reference 0083  0084  0085  0086
Our Guide To Dubrovnik

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A Surge Reported In Croatia's Popularity  12/08/2010

According to Tom Hall, the Lonely Planet Travel Guide writer, Croatia is becoming more popular than ever as a top holiday destination for both European travellers and international stars. Mr. Hall points to a 15% increase in visitors arriving by plane this summer, and a 9% increase in the number arriving by boat. On August 1st alone Dubrovnik received a staggering 15,000 tourists, more than in the entire month of February!
The director of The Croatian Tourist Board, Niko Bulic, links this increase to the past 10 years spent promoting Croatia around the world.
The latest star to be spotted in Croatia is Formula One boss, Bernie Ecclestone.

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** 15% Reduction For Booking Period 28.08 - 04.09! **

Villa Celeste is offering a 10% reduction on normal rental prices for the booking period 28.08 - 04.09.  The luxury villa with pool comfortably sleeps up to 8 people and is located in the beautiful Istrian region, Sveta Nedelja. The daily rental price is now only €290 which converts to just over €36 p/p per day. A small price to pay for a glorious week in the Mediterranean sunshine sun!

For more information search property reference 0053
Our Guide To Istria

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Zadar - Pefectly placed For Exploring Dalmatia  04/08/2010

In an article written for a widely read UK newspaper site, The Telegraph, Natalie Paris urges readers to visit the walled port of Zadar, the historic town "rich in history and natural beauty."
Known as 'The Gateway To The National Parks of Dalmatia', Ms. Paris highlights Zadar's historical sights, both classical and contemporary, as well as its effervescent cafe and bar scene, describing it as "still relatively undiscovered." 
With "quiet streets of marble" and "pine-scented beaches", Zadar is rapidly attracting younger travellers drawn by a range of beachside music festivals, and is home to the famous Brit-run bar and Dj terrace, The Garden.

Read the article in full .......
Our Guide To Zadar

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Indian Writer Praises Plitvice Lakes  31/07/2010

Asha Rai, writing in the world's largest broadsheet daily, the Times Of India, heaps praise upon praise when recounting his visit to one of Croatia's treasures, the UNESCO listed National Park, Plitvice Lakes.
Describing the Lakes in terms of "mindblowing" and "serendipitous", the writer highlights the World Heritage Site as the "one must visit destination" in Croatia.
Stretching over 300 km, Plitvice Lakes is one of the most beautiful National Parks in the world, a magical complex of forests, meadows, lakes and cascading waterfalls.

Read the article in full .......
Our Guide To The National Parks and Nature Parks In Croatia

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Holiday Makers Continue To Flock To Croatia  29/07/2010

Croatian Tourism Minister, Damir Bajs, has reported an increase in the number of foreign visitors to Croatia in the 1st 3 weekends of July.
An impressive total of 450,000 people visited the beautiful land of contrasts in this short period of time, an increase on numbers when compared to the same period last year.
With a beguiling blend of cities, islands, landscape and sea, Croatia is proving a sure fire hit with holidaymakers looking to escape countries hit by mass tourism.

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The Kuna Is A Hit With The Brits  29/07/2010

According to the International Currency Exchange (ICE), Croatia will prove a key destination for Brits this summer.
The Kuna, the currency for the non-euro hotspot, is the companies 3rd most popular currency for 2010.
Croatia is also highlighted by the currency index from American Express as proving extremely popular for British travellers on short-stay trips.

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Rare Amphibian Exhibited In Cave In Croatia 22/07/2010 

A foot long salamander, the Olm - known as "the human fish", due to its shape and skin colour - is the longest living amphibian in the world, with a life-span of 100 years. Scientists have no idea why it can live so long.
In a bid to conserve the rare and protected amphibian, a population of the fish were established 48 years ago.
The amphibians can be viewed in their natural environment in Cave Baredine, situated in Nova Vas just outside Porec. The cave, a treasure chest of stalagmites and stalacites is the only cave to accommodate tourists in Croatia.
Croatia is home to more than 11,500 caves and sink-holes.
Active Tourism In Croatia

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Desperate Housewives Star Visits The Dalmatian Coast  07/07/2010

Eva Longoria Parker, star of the hit series, Desperate Housewives docked her luxurious yacht in Sibenik, stepping aboard with her party to explore the historic town in the company of a tour guide.
Ms. Longoria later anchored at Dubrovnik with friends, including her basket-ball player husband, Tony Parker, and Prison Break actor, Amaury Velasco, who was with his girlfriend, the actress, Jennifer Morrison, star of House.
The Hollywood star celebrated her 3rd wedding anniversary in a restaurant followed by a stroll around the idyllic Dalmatian town.
Our Guide To Dubrovnik

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Croatia - New Ibiza   24/06/2010

Young travellers are being encouraged to consider Croatia as a better alternative to "well-trodden" and "expensive" clubbing destinations like Ibiza for party holidays.
These are the views of The Guardian, which reports "In the past two years Croatia has become one of the most talked about countries for clubbers."
The article highlights Croatia's extensive range of music festivals, describing Croatia, in comparison to other destinations, as "cooler, edgier and cheaper".

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Morgan Freeman To Promote Film In Dubrovnik  22/06/2010

Hollywood actor and academy award winner, Morgan Freeman is set to visit Dubrovnik in August as a special guest at the Dubrovnik Film Meeting.
He will be attending a screening of his film, Invictus, starring fellow actor Clint Eastwood.
Our Guide To Dubrovnik

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Goldie Hawn And Kurt Russell Relax In Dubrovnik  18/06/2010

Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell have been spotted in trendy Dubrovnik enjoying a sunshine break.
The famous couple, who have been together for 25 years, took in the array of sights, including a visit to the legendary palace, Knezev Dvor.
Dubrovnik was also recently the destination of choice for the Saudi Arabian royal family.
Other stars seen in Dubrovnik in recent months include actors Gerard Butler and Ralph Fiennes.
Our Guide To Dubrovnik

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Croatia - One Of The Safest Countries In Europe  21/05/2010

Croatia has been hailed this week by The Korea Times as one of the safest nations in Europe. Describing Croatia as the "Miss World of the Mediterranean", daily correspondent, Lee Chang-sup described Croatia as a country where "tourists can walk freely during the day and night without danger. The Mediterranean country is rich in cultural heritage from the Roman Empire and Middle Ages, has authentic customs, dances, songs and cuisine."
Croatia has long been regarded as a safe country to visit, boasting one of the lowest crime rates in Europe.

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WWII Veterans Visit Vis Island  21/05/2010

Croatia's British ambassador, David Blunt will next week join WWII veterans on their annual visit to Vis Island, to pay tribute to their fallen comrades who died defending the island from German forces.
The former marine and Royal Navy commandos will arrive on the island on the 25th May for their 2 day visit.
Vis Island lies 45km from mainland Split. With an untouched natural beauty, pristine coastline and traditional lifestyle it is known as one of Croatia's 'best kept secrets'.
Source: Croatian Times
Our Guide To Split 

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Gay Guide To Zagreb  09/05/2010

A guide book listing 37 gay-friendly places to visit in Zagreb is now available in hotels and tourist offices around the city. This marks an impressive increase in the 11 places listed in last year's guide, revealing that Zagreb is becoming a much more welcoming place for gay people. 
The list is aimed at tourists and visitors to the bustling metropolis, and includes details of bars, clubs and accommodation popular with the gay community.
The book's creator, Kruno Pekas told the Croatian Times, "I am glad that Zagreb is becoming more gay-friendly."
Our Guide To Zagreb

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Daily Mirror Travel Writer's Review Of The "Dazzling Dalmation Coast"  08/05/2010

Travel writer, Nikki Bailey, recently returned from a trip to Croatia's stunning Dalmatian coast, a trip which saw her indulging in just some of the wonderful experiences and areas this fabulous European hotspot has to offer.
Writing in the popular daily tabloid, The Daily Mirror, Ms. Bailey describes the unspoilt UNESCO listed medieval town of Trogir as "a labyrinth of twisting alleys, cobbled streets and inviting bars". Zadar is lauded as "a beautiful town",  and Split is given special mention as  "one of the most interesting places I've ever visited." Ms. Bailey also visited Bol, situated on the exquisite island of Brac, home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach (or, Golden Cape), which she describes as "perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles."
High praise indeed for the wonderful Adriatic coast!

Read the article in full   ........
Our Guide To Split

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Tune In For Dr.Who In Trogir!  05/05/2010

Watch out for this Saturday's 6pm episode of the award winning TV show, Dr.Who - 'The Vampires Of Venice' -which is seemingly set in 16th century Venice, but was in fact filmed in the beautiful Venetian-inspired coastal town of Trogir.
Guest star, Helen McCrory said of Trogir, "The architecture here is stunning - people come from all around the world to see it."   
Trogir also provides the setting for a later episode, due to be screened in a months time, featuring none other than Vincent Van Gough! This time the episode is presented as being set in 19th century France, but again the setting is Trogir.
The medieval town of Trogir is a popular tourist destination located in the Split region. It was awarded UNESCO status in 1997.
Our Guide To Split

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Morcheeba To Perform At Europe's Hottest Music Festival, Held In Zagreb  04/05/2010

Trip-hop sensation, Morcheeba has been added to the star-studded line up of one of Europe's hottest and most anticipated music festivals, the T-Mobile IN Music Festival, set to kick off on June 22nd at Jarun Lake, Zagreb. Acts confirmed to appear at the popular 2 day event include, Massive Attack, Rise Against, Pendulum and the legendary punk rocker, Billy Idol.
Hailed by The Times as one of the best European music festivals, headline acts last year included Lilly Allen and The Prodigy and attracted over 25,000 visitors.

For more information visit the T-Mobile website
Our Guide To Zagreb

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Paul Potts To Take To The Stage In Zagreb and Split  20/04/2010

Singing sensation, Paul Potts will be making 2 concert appearances in Croatia this spring.
His first concert will be held at SRC Salata in Zagreb on the 4th June, followed by a second performance at Split's Spaladium Arena on the 6th June.
The tenor won the very first competition of the popular UK talent show, Britain's Got Talent, in 2007.

For more information please visit  eventim

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Radio One's Rob Da Bank To Guest At The Garden Festival, Petrcane  15/04/2010 

Top Uk DJ and music legend, Rob Da Bank, is set to make his debut appearance - to include an amazing sunset set - at this years popular Garden Festival, held in the picturesque town of Petrcane, near Zadar on Croatia's stunning Adriatic coast.
The annual Festival, due to take place over two weekends from Friday July 2nd - Sunday July 4th and Friday July 9th - Sunday July 11th, will  include appearances from, amongst a host of others, Killer Whale, The Revenge, Seth Troxler, Jamie Jones, Filthy Dukes and Cuban Brothers.
Featuring a fully live outdoor stage, a beach bar, boat parties and discotheques, this year's festivities are sure to prove a sure fire hit with music lovers across the world.

For more information visit  www.thegardenfestival.eu
Our Guide To Zadar

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Romeo 'Rodnan', The Loving Stork!   29/03/2010

When a young mother stork was cruelly shot and wounded by hunters in 1993 in the village of Brodski Varos in Eastern Croatia, she was left unable to fly. 'Malena', as she came to be known, couldn't make the journey South in the Winter and was not expected to live, but thanks to care of local resident Stepjan Vokic, who fed her throughout the winter months, and the love and determination of her romantic mate, 'Rodnan', Malena continues to live a happy and fulfilled life.
Her hubby, 'Rodnan' has rounded up their young every year since Malena suffered her injury, and led them on the 13,000 km winter trek to South Africa, returning in the Spring to his beloved Malena. He even teaches the young to fly, a job Malena is unable to fulfill. A new batch of babies emerges shortly after each return and together the happy couple have raised an amazing 32 chicks together.
Now that's what you call love!

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Dubrovnik; Ideal Destination For Active Holidays  23.03.2010

The beautiful UNESCO listed city, Dubrovnik has been described by Meri Matesic, the director of the Croatian National Tourist Office for London, as a fantastic holiday destination which offers something for everyone, with its wealth of attractions and things to do and see.
Ms. Matesic encourages visitors to the bustling metropolis to also venture outside of Dubrovnik's ancient walls and into the surrounding areas, making reference to the fabulous Peljesac peninsula with its trail of ancient olive groves and vineyards. 
The director also highlights the regions spectacular and diverse landscape, perfect for a range of outdoor pursuits including hiking, suggesting climbing "Mount Srd, which is 430 metres high with stunning views of the city of Dubrovnik and the region."
For lovers of all things nautical, Ms. Matesic points towards a boat excursion to the exquisite Elaphite Islands.
Dubrovnik is a wonderful all year round destination boasting sizzling Summer sunshine and mild winters due to its favourable geographical location.
Our Guide To Dubrovnik

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Soundwave Festival, Petrcane 2010. 23rd - 25th July   08/03/2010

The popular Soundwave Festival line up continues to increase with even more acts confirmed as appearing, including The Cinematic Orchestra, DâM Funk and Zero 7, who will be joining Toddla-T, Benji B, DJ Format, Andrea Trianna, DJ Vadim and many others.
The festival, held in the scenic fishing village, Petrcane, has been singled out by The Guardian newspaper as one of their top festivals for 2010, describing it as having, "all the quirks of a Bestival but in a far more beautiful and sunny setting."
Soundwave promoter, Noah Ball said "I think anyone who came to the festival and saw the site last year will be able to imagine what a mindblowing experience it will be to see The Cinematic Orchestra play by the sea and under the stars. I wasn't sure last year could be beaten but I think we may have just done it."
For more information visit  The Soundwave Festival  website
Our Guide To Zadar

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Bob Dylan To Perform In Zagreb   03/03/2010

 Bob Dylan's official website has announced that the American superstar is set to perform in Croatia's capital, Zagreb on 7th June as part of a world tour, which kicks off in Japan on March 11th.
Dylan previously performed in Croatia in June 2008 at the Radar Festival in Varazdin. 

Our Guide To Zagreb

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New International Music Festival To Be Held In Petrçane  23/02/10  

Petrcane is to play host to a brand new music festival, Stop Making Sense, to be held from 3rd - 5th September, showcasing a dazzling array of quality live acts and DJ's, brought by top club and concert promoters from London, Glasgow and Paris. Planned events will include beach and boat parties galore, held in both the sunshine and under the stars.
The organisers of the event, Chris Greenwood and Alex Ruello said of the event, " We are delighted to have found such a brilliant spot to put on our first event, combining great weather, excellent value, transport and accommodation, superb food & hospitality. The facilities are top notch, the villagers super friendly...and sunshine virtually guaranteed. We couldn't really have asked for more!
Our Guide To Zadar

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Kiera Knightley To Shoot New Film In Croatia  08/08/10

 British actress, Kiera Knightley, is set to play the role of Francis Scott Fitzgerald's wife, Zelda, in an upcoming film based on the famous American writer's life.
According to the daily Croatian newspaper, Jutarnji List, the film, entitled The Beautiful And The Damned, is due to be filmed in Zagreb, the vibrant capital city of Croatia, as well as in the elegant coastal city of Opatija, with filming set to begin in the Spring. Speculation suggests that the leading role will be played by the legendary Hollywood actor, Leonardo Di Caprio.

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Rock Legends Deep Purple And The Police To Play Concerts In Croatia 25/01/10 

Why not combine a holiday to one of the most fashionable destinations in the world with a live concert by legendary rock bands Deep Purple and The Police?
According to the news portal, The Croatian Times the heavy metal band Deep Purple are due to perform in Zagreb on the 5th June at the Dom Sportova hall. The concert will form part of the bands world tour which will kick off in Australia on the 27th April, ending on November 30th in Stuttgart.
Also planning a concert in Croatia are the rock band, The Police, who are due to perform in Dubrovnik at the end of May or beginning of June as part of Dubrovnik's cultural summer programme.
Although not yet confirmed, the performance would follow an earlier appearance by Sting at the Vatroslav Lisinsski concert hall in Zagreb last year.
Source: The Croatian Times
Our Guide To Dubrovnik
Our Guide To Zagreb

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Dubrovnik - Perfect Escape From The World Cup Frenzy  13/01/10

A survey carried out by leading travel firm, Sunshine.co.uk to discover the travel plans of women during the upcoming World Cup reveals that female only holidays are on the increase. 
Of the 1,074 women aged 18-30 interviewed 1 in 4 planned to be on holiday with a partner during the World Cup whilst 41% were planning a ladies only holiday, with Dubrovnik named as their top travel destination.
Founder of the travel company, Chris Brown, suggests that holidaying to destinations that didn't qualify for the World Cup offers people the opportunity to "relax and enjoy your holiday" without getting caught up in the football frenzy.
The World Cup kicks off in Johannesberg on June 11th finishing a month later.
Our Guide To Dubrovnik

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EasyJet Confirms New Flight Routes To Croatia  05/01/2010

Lowcost airline EasyJet will be expanding its flight services to Croatia this spring launching 2 new routes from Stansted airport to the historic cities of Dubrovnik and Split.
The managing director of Stansted, David Johnston described the news as offering passengers "Great value for money and even more choice to increasingly popular destinations."
The Uks largest airline company now has flights to Dubrovnik and Split from Bristol, Liverpool, Gatwick and Stansted airports.
Flights To Croatia

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