This morning, drivers reported a large landslide in Dubrovnik over the Banja beach. The popular Viver group “Radari – Kontrole Dubrovnik” added some photos of the landslide which has completely blocked one of the most important roads near the Old City of Dubrovnik.
The road is completely blocked, and clean-up crews are on the scene.
Police officers are redirecting traffic, but as this is a vital connecting road around the Old City the traffic this morning will be extremely busy.
The south of Croatia has been experiencing heavy rain and storms for the past few days and this could well have led to the landslide onto the road above the Banje beach.
Dubrovnik's Sustainable Tourism Model Showcased at London Conference
At the invitation of ABTA, the UK's largest travel association, the Mayor of Dubrovnik, Mato Franković, participated in a conference on sustainable travel held in central London. The event brought together experts from the UK travel sector, as well as representatives from global institutions such as the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), easyJet Holidays, and national tourism organizations.
Due to Dubrovnik’s successful implementation of various sustainable tourism initiatives, ABTA invited Mayor Franković to deliver a keynote presentation. During his address, he outlined the city's responsible tourism management strategy, emphasizing sustainability, destination enhancement, and improving competitiveness in the face of global tourism challenges.
A particular focus was placed on the Respect the City project, which serves as a model for eco-conscious and long-term solutions to controlled tourism growth, ensuring the preservation of Dubrovnik’s authenticity and rich cultural heritage. The British audience had the opportunity to learn about the strategies Dubrovnik employs to secure a sustainable future for tourism while balancing the needs of both residents and visitors.
Sustainability and overtourism are key concerns in the UK travel sector, and the conference facilitated the exchange of experiences, challenges, and opportunities that tourism presents to global communities. The ongoing interest from British and international media in this topic underscores the importance of promoting sustainable tourism solutions. This was further highlighted by a recent interview with Mayor Franković in the British Mirror regarding the future of tourism in Dubrovnik.
Looking ahead, Dubrovnik plans to continue its sustainable tourism policies by further regulating visitor flows, investing in municipal infrastructure, and expanding its Dubrovnik Housing project. As the first city in Croatia to successfully launch its own housing model, Dubrovnik has already provided homes for 91 families, either through affordable rental schemes or one-time financial assistance of €30,000 for home purchases.
With this approach, Dubrovnik is setting high standards for sustainable tourism and has been recognized globally as a leading example of effective destination management.
Croatia Welcomes Fourth Group of Wounded Ukrainians for Medical Treatment and Support
A fourth group of wounded individuals from Ukraine has arrived at Zagreb Airport today —17 people, accompanied by three family members. They have been transferred to hospitals for treatment and rehabilitation, reports HRT.
"Most of them are young, and several have suffered severe injuries, including amputations. Based on the medical assessments we exchanged with the Ukrainian side, they are being assigned to hospitals for treatment and later to veterans' centers," said Croatian Minister of Veterans' Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister Tomo Medved.
Croatia deeply understands the horrors Ukraine is enduring, Medved noted. The first priority for the wounded is medical stabilization, after which they will have the opportunity to speak with Croatian war veterans who have also experienced severe injuries.
"Thirty-five years ago, these veterans went through devastating injuries, recovered, and today they have families and even grandchildren. The experiences they will share serve as invaluable encouragement," Medved emphasized.
The first group of wounded Ukrainian individuals arrived in Croatia in April 2023. In total, 55 people, accompanied by 27 family members, have come for treatment as part of the first three groups.
"Given the ongoing intense battles to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty in the face of Russian aggression, Croatia will continue to assist the Ukrainian people by providing medical care for their wounded, as well as through other forms of aid and support," the minister stated.
Most of the injured from the first three groups have since returned to Ukraine, while 12 remain in Croatia under temporary protection status. They are entitled to the same rights as other displaced persons under Croatian law.
Minister Medved highlighted the establishment of a just peace in Ukraine as a priority. He also expressed gratitude to the Norwegian team that, for the fourth time, organized the flight transporting wounded individuals from Poland.
"This is yet another clear sign of strong international cooperation and support for the Ukrainian people and their defenders," he stated.
Ukraine’s Ambassador to Croatia, Vasilj Kyrylych, extended his gratitude to the directors of hospitals and veterans' centers, as well as to the entire Croatian government, for their strong support in providing treatment and rehabilitation for the wounded.
First timers to Dubrovnik: Here’s what to pack
If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia, and you’re not sure where to start, don't worry, you’re in the right place! This beautiful coastal city is packed with history, stunning views, and plenty of charm. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and for good reason. Whether you’re strolling through the Old Town or soaking up the sun on the beach, Dubrovnik is a place you’ll never forget.
Why Dubrovnik is Worth the Visit
Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and breathtaking views of the turquoise sea. If you’ve ever seen Game of Thrones, you’ll recognize the city as King’s Landing. But even without the TV show’s fame, Dubrovnik is a must-see destination for anyone who loves history, architecture, and stunning landscapes.
When to Visit Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is amazing year-round, but the best time to visit is usually between late spring (May) and early autumn (September). The weather is warm, the sea is perfect for swimming, and the city’s events, like the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, bring extra excitement to the town. Keep in mind, the city can get pretty crowded during the peak summer months (July and August), so if you prefer a quieter experience, try to visit in late spring or early fall.
What to Wear in Dubrovnik: Style and Comfort
Dubrovnik is a city of contrasts—charming cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and sun-soaked beaches. So, knowing what to wear is key to making the most of your trip. Comfort is the name of the game, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look stylish while doing it!
Daytime Look: Comfortable Yet Chic
During the day, you’ll be exploring a lot—whether it’s hiking along the city walls or walking through the Old Town. So comfort is essential, but there’s no need to sacrifice style. Here’s a simple outfit formula for daytime activities:
- Comfortable shoes: Dubrovnik’s Old Town is full of cobblestone streets, so you’ll want comfortable shoes. Opt for stylish sneakers or comfortable sandals. If you plan on doing the wall walk or hiking up to Fort Lovrijenac, a sturdy pair of sneakers is a good choice.
- Light, breathable clothing: Since the weather can get pretty warm, especially in summer, it’s a good idea to wear lightweight clothing. A nice flowy dress or a casual shorts set will work great. The heat can be intense, so cotton or linen fabrics will keep you cool.
- Hat and sunglasses: The sun can be strong, so a wide-brimmed hat and some good quality sunglasses are a must. Not only will they protect you from the sun, but they’ll add to your stylish vibe.
Evening Look: Casual but a Little Dressy
Dubrovnik’s nightlife scene is casual but fashionable, with many restaurants and bars offering stunning sea views. You won’t need to go full-on glam, but you might want to dress it up a little for the evening.
- Casual dress or smart-casual outfits: If you’re heading out for dinner, a casual sundress or nice pair of trousers with a pretty top will do the trick. The vibe is laid-back, but you’ll want to look polished.
- Comfortable footwear: Even at night, you’ll be walking on cobblestone streets, so comfy shoes are still important. You can wear a cute pair of sandals or flats that will complement your outfit while keeping your feet happy.
- Light jacket: Dubrovnik evenings can get a bit cooler, especially in the fall. Bring a light jacket or cardigan just in case the temperature drops.
Overall, Dubrovnik is a stunning destination that offers both beauty and history in spades. Whether you're wandering the ancient walls, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the Old Town, you’ll want to be comfortable while still feeling stylish. So, pack light, stay comfy, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this gorgeous Croatian city!
New car sales in the European Union continued to decline in February, with Croatia experiencing a drop almost twice as large as the European average, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA).
In February, 854,000 new cars were registered across the EU, a 3.4% decrease compared to the same month last year. This marks the second consecutive month of declining sales, with the first two months of 2025 showing a 3% drop in new car registrations, reports HINA.
Sales in Leading Markets
Among the largest European markets, only Spain saw a rise in car sales, with an 11% increase in February. In the first two months of this year, Spain's sales grew by 8.4%. On the other hand, Germany, the largest European market, saw a 6.4% decline in February, resulting in a 4.6% drop for the first two months. Italy also experienced a 6% decrease, while France saw a 3.3% drop.
In Croatia, 4,245 new cars were registered in February, which is 6.3% fewer than last year. January's figures showed a smaller decrease of 0.4%. For the first two months of 2025, Croatia's car market shrank by 3.4% compared to the same period last year, with 8,717 new cars registered.
Electric and Hybrid Cars on the Rise
Sales of battery electric vehicles in Europe grew by 23.7% in February, following a 34% increase at the start of the year. Spain led the way with a 60.6% jump in sales, while Italy and Germany also saw strong growth, up 38.2% and 30.8%, respectively. However, in France, sales of electric vehicles declined by 1.9%.
In the first two months of 2025, battery electric vehicles made up 15.2% of the European market. Sales of hybrid electric vehicles also grew by 19%, capturing 35.2% of the market.
Decline in Gasoline and Diesel Cars
Sales of gasoline and diesel cars continued to fall, with a decrease of 22.4% for gasoline cars and 28.8% for diesel vehicles in February. These types of cars now make up 29.1% and 9.7% of the European market, respectively.
In Croatia, the trend was similar. Sales of battery electric cars grew by 6% in February, while plug-in hybrids saw a significant increase of 48.9%. Hybrid electric car sales also grew by 12%, although at a slower pace than in January. Meanwhile, sales of gasoline cars dropped by 13.4%, and diesel car sales fell by 26.5%.
Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman Discusses Missing Persons and Bilateral Relations in London
Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman took part in a roundtable discussion on missing persons from the Croatian Homeland War, organized by the British Foreign Policy Group. During his stay in London, he visited the exhibition "Behind the Sky: A Tribute to Missing Persons from the Croatian Homeland War", dedicated to the victims and missing persons of the war and their families. He also met with the UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy.
In his opening speech at the roundtable, Minister Grlić Radman emphasized the importance of presenting to the British public the still-unresolved issue of numerous missing persons from the Homeland War. Speaking about the scale of the conflict, he noted that the Republic of Croatia is still searching for 1,771 individuals who went missing during the war, 1,080 of whom disappeared in 1991.
No National Divisions in the Search for Missing Citizens
He stressed that Croatian institutions have been acting in accordance with the highest standards of international law in this process for years, ensuring that the search for missing citizens transcends national divisions.
Minister Grlić Radman also addressed Croatia’s relations and cooperation with Serbia and its institutions, stating that progress in resolving numerous open issues began in late 2024 with the appointment of national coordinators to lead discussions. In this context, he expressed expectations for advancements in locating Croatia’s missing citizens, securing compensation for the families of murdered and illegally detained Croatian citizens in camps in Serbia and Montenegro, and prosecuting those responsible for these war crimes.
Meeting with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy
During his visit to London, Minister Grlić Radman held a bilateral meeting with his UK counterpart, Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, global security, and current developments in Southeast Europe.
Both officials agreed on the importance of future cooperation and expressed their commitment to further strengthening ties and addressing European, global, and regional challenges together.
Cultural Heritage Imaging & Innovation 2025: Pioneering the Future of Heritage Preservation
RIT Croatia and the American university Rochester Institute of Technology proudly invite all interested parties to the Grand Opening of the international conference Cultural Heritage Imaging & Innovation (CHII 2025), which will take place on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Kino Visia in Dubrovnik, starting at 9:00 AM.
Among the many distinguished guests, we highlight the attendance of Mato Franković, Mayor of Dubrovnik, and Anuška Deranja Crnokić, Director of the Directorate for Archives, Libraries, and Museums at the Ministry of Culture and Media of the Republic of Croatia.
They will address the conference participants during the opening ceremony.
Kino Visia Dubrovnik
About the Conference
Cultural Heritage Imaging & Innovation Conference 2025 is dedicated to imaging and innovations in the field of cultural heritage, bringing together historians, scientists, practitioners, and technology leaders from around the world.
By introducing new technologies into the study of cultural heritage, museums, archives, and libraries can gain valuable new insights from historical artifacts and share the acquired knowledge. However, the collection, management, visualization, dissemination, and exhibition of this information remain constant challenges.
The goal of the conference is to connect historical artifacts with modern technologies to shape the future of cultural heritage preservation and presentation.
Croatia’s Growing Demand for Foreign Workers: New Labor Law Brings Challenges and Opportunities
Almost a third of companies that participated in a Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK) survey on the need for additional skills and knowledge in the labor market employ foreign workers. The majority (80%) of these workers are in craft and vocational professions, as stated at the HGK seminar "Employment of Foreign Workers – The New Aliens Act and Active Employment Policy Measures."
The majority of companies (83%) see the biggest advantage of hiring foreign workers as filling vacant positions more easily. However, they cite additional employment costs and integration challenges as the biggest obstacles. Companies also pointed out that the administrative process for hiring foreigners has been lengthy and complex, and they hope the new law will ease the administrative burden on both employers and workers, reports HINA.
HGK Vice President for Trade and Internationalization, Igor Pokaz, predicts that the demand for foreign labor will continue to grow, especially in construction, tourism, and trade.
New Law on Foreign Workers: Key Changes and Challenges
"A proper legal framework is crucial to ensuring a steady workforce supply to support economic growth. A key focus in the coming period will be the development of regulations governing accommodation conditions for foreign workers," said Pokaz.
One of the key changes in the new law is the restriction on the ratio of foreign workers to domestic employees. For non-deficit occupations, domestic workers must make up at least 16% of the foreign workforce, while for deficit occupations, domestic workers must comprise at least 8%, according to HGK.
Marko Pekčec, President of the HGK Community of Employment Agencies, emphasized that this change could pose a challenge for agencies specializing in hiring and leasing foreign workers. He expects an increase in domestic employment as agencies try to expand their quota for foreign workers, leading to higher business costs.
"We are also concerned about how promissory notes will impact employment agency service prices. The law requires employers to submit a promissory note equal to one average gross salary for each foreign worker before their arrival. The goal is to increase employer accountability, which is a positive step. Additionally, increased inspections to prevent illegal employment practices, such as hiring workers without proper permits or qualifications, are a welcome measure," said Pekčec.
Regulations Still Pending
The new law extends work and residence permits for foreign workers from one to three years and seasonal work permits from six to nine months, which employers support.
Kristina Anetić, Head of HR and General Affairs at Kamgrad, welcomes the extension of work and residence permits and the flexibility to change job roles with the same employer. However, she notes that certain aspects of the law still require additional regulations, leaving room for different interpretations by authorities until they are clarified.
Employers hiring third-country nationals are now required to provide adequate accommodation under the new law, but specific conditions, such as space and sanitary requirements, are yet to be defined in the Regulation on the Accommodation of Foreign Workers, which has not yet been adopted. In the meantime, companies are facing inconsistencies in how the law is interpreted, leading to challenges such as treating all foreign workers as seasonal employees.
Marko Šimunić, Director of Šimunić Promet, believes that the new Aliens Act should not necessarily classify mobile workers as seasonal.
"Due to the nature of their work, mobile workers spend short periods in Croatia. If the company provides adequate accommodation at the business address, they should be able to register there, as has been the case until now," said Šimunić.
Dubrovnik Weekend Tourism Steady, But Yearly Numbers Show a 7% Dip
According to the eVisitor system for tourist registration and deregistration, around 3,400 guests stayed in Dubrovnik last weekend—roughly the same as this time last year.
In addition to domestic visitors, the most numerous guests came from the United Kingdom, France, the United States, and Greece.
Since the beginning of the year, Dubrovnik has recorded just over 45,600 arrivals and around 115,300 overnight stays, which is 7% less than in the same period last year.
Brazilians Show Growing Interest in Visiting Croatia, Exploring Religious, Gastronomic, and Winter Tourism
In São Paulo, the 8th Meeting of the Croatian Diaspora in South America is taking place, where the Croatian National Tourist Board (HTZ) has presented its offerings to attract Brazilian tourists, reports HINA.
“The interest is extraordinary. Everyone has expressed a great desire to visit and learn more about Croatia,” said HTZ’s International Cooperation Advisor, Marina Šimun, after meetings with Brazilian media and tour operators.
Among the media outlets present were O Globo and CNN.
“CNN has expressed interest in coming to Croatia to film a report, so we said we would work on making that happen to bring Croatia even closer to Brazilian guests,” Šimun added.
Although many Brazilians are familiar with Croatia, their knowledge remains limited, despite a steady increase in visitors each year.
“There is great potential for more arrivals in our market,” Šimun emphasized.
Last year, visitors from South America recorded around 200,000 overnight stays in Croatia.
Promoting Alternative Tourism Beyond the Beach Season
Solange Juvela, President of the Brazilian-Croatian Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the need to promote tourism beyond Croatia’s summer beach season.
“We must encourage alternative tourism options, such as gastronomy or winter visits to Zagreb and other cities during Advent,” she said.
She stressed the importance of finding ways to attract visitors during less busy months.
Miroslav Deur, owner and guide of the agency Prismazul, has been bringing Brazilians to Croatia on religious pilgrimages for 25 years.
“Typical tourists take photos and already think about their next trip. Pilgrimages are different—people seek a transformation in their lives, and that happens through the journey,” explained Deur, a Croatian born in São Paulo.
So far, he has led 60 groups with a total of 2,000 Brazilian pilgrims, visiting Croatian religious sites in Ludbreg, Marija Bistrica, Međugorje, and St. Nicholas Tavelic’s shrine in Šibenik, as well as Dubrovnik, Široki Brijeg, Rama, Perast, and Herceg Novi.
During the tours, Deur teaches them about Croatian history and presents spiritual values in a symbolic way. In Zagreb, for example, he talks about the earthquake and the city’s restoration.
Luka Modrić in a Promotional Video for Brazil
At the Croatian Diaspora meeting in São Paulo, HTZ presented a promotional video featuring Croatian football star Luka Modrić, who is well known among Brazil’s 213 million residents.
At the beginning of the video, Modrić speaks in Portuguese, saying: "You must see this video."
“It turned out fantastic,” Šimun said. “After the film, people came to ask even more questions. They said they had no idea about certain things in Croatia.”
Juvela, from the Brazilian-Croatian Chamber of Commerce, founded in 2023, noted that Brazilians are becoming increasingly interested in Croatia and eager to visit. Tour operators at the event expressed their enthusiasm and their desire to increase the number of Brazilian tourists traveling to Croatia.
There are around one million Croats and their descendants in South America, and HTZ encouraged them to invite their friends, neighbors, and relatives to visit Croatia.
“We expect a higher number of visitors this year, especially since organizations like the Brazilian-Croatian Chamber of Commerce are now actively involved,” explained Šimun.
Next month, Deur will lead another group of 25 pilgrims. He shared how Brazilian visitors often arrive with heavy hearts but leave with love for Croatia.
“When they return to Brazil, they take home wine, immortelle oil, and pelinkovac. But they can only carry 23 kilograms of luggage,” he noted with a smile. “Yet what they carry in their hearts is immeasurable—love and a life-changing experience.”
The Voice of Dubrovnik
