The Croatian National Bank (HNB) continues its numismatic series dedicated to the black lizard and is issuing a new silver coin, Black Lizard, with a denomination of six euros, HNB announced on Tuesday.
The silver coin is crafted using a high-gloss minting technique with ultra-high relief.
The coin's design features the endemic subspecies of lizard, the Brusnik karst lizard (Podarcis melisellensis melisellensis), an important part of the Republic of Croatia's natural heritage, which inhabits the islet of Brusnik, a geological nature monument protected since 1951.
The artistic design of this silver coin was created by sculptor Nikola Vudrag.
The Black Lizard silver coin is being issued in a quantity of no more than 400 pieces, and interested buyers can purchase it starting January 21, 2025.
The coin will be sold by the Croatian Mint, with an initial sales price expected to be around €253.79 including VAT.
The final price at the time of purchase will depend on fluctuations in silver prices on the open market.
Preparatory works are underway for the restoration of the Small Onofrio Fountain, with the project expected to last 60 working days.
The Society of Friends of Dubrovnik Antiquities has initiated restoration efforts on the Small Onofrio Fountain, as its current infrastructure is in poor condition due to corrosion and lime buildup, necessitating urgent repairs. The restoration will include thorough cleaning of the pipelines, replacement of damaged water pipes and faulty components, and a complete overhaul of the water recirculation system. Additionally, the water meter chamber will be reconstructed to improve access for maintenance.
Simultaneously, conservation and restoration works will be carried out to prevent further damage and preserve the historical and artistic value of the fountain. These works will involve replacing nozzles and restoring stone details, all performed under expert supervision and in compliance with conservation guidelines.
The main project documentation for the restoration and maintenance of the Small Onofrio Fountain was prepared by Studio Vetma arh d.o.o., led by chief designer Matko Vetma, and has received approval from the Ministry of Culture and Media, Directorate for the Protection of Cultural Heritage, and the Conservation Department in Dubrovnik. Construction and craft works will be handled by Građevinar Quelin d.d., while authorized conservator Ivka Lipanović will execute the conservation and restoration works.
A report by the Center for Information Resilience states that pro-Russian networks operated in two waves—following Milanović's victory in the first round and after his statements opposing potential Croatian involvement in the war in Ukraine. The report also notes that Milanović was portrayed more positively than Dragan Primorac. Domagoj Maričić, Assistant Director of Croatian Regulatory Authority for Network Industries (HAKOM), commented on the alleged involvement of Russian bots for N1 Television.
The report analyzed the behavior of social media accounts on platforms like X, Facebook, Reddit, TikTok, and others over the past month. Key terms included “Zoran Milanović” and “Dragan Primorac,” with the goal of uncovering a network of pro-Russian, anti-EU, and anti-NATO bots.
“What happened wasn’t alarming enough to influence the elections. No significant impact occurred,” Maričić told N1.
“We are not claiming that the information the Center for Information Resilience had is malicious or that those researchers acted in bad faith. However, given the circumstances, there was nothing to indicate an alarming situation that would warrant platform intervention,” he added.
He emphasized: “As far as we’re concerned, this story is over.”
“It is not HAKOM’s task to monitor the work of organizations conducting such research, especially if they are not registered as trusted reporters. Trusted reporters are those who, once the regulation is adopted, will have a privileged position with platforms, making their reports carry greater relevance,” Maričić explained.
Dubrovnik-based costume designer Zjena Glamočanin has been nominated in the "Best Costume Designer" category at the Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards for her work on the film Kneecap (2024), directed by Rich Peppiatt. The IFTA Film & Drama Awards are often referred to as the "Irish Oscars."
Interestingly, the film features German-Irish actor and Hollywood star Michael Fassbender. Kneecap is also Ireland's official entry for the "Best International Feature Film" category at the 97th Academy Awards. Whether it will make the final list of nominees remains to be seen, but in the meantime, we’re keeping our fingers crossed for our talented Dubrovnik native!
Managing finances in a co-living setup can get messy. From splitting rent to dividing utility bills, keeping things fair and transparent often feels like a juggling act. But what if there was a digital solution that could simplify all this? Enter cryptocurrency.
With digital currency trends like Bitcoin price gaining popularity, many people are starting to use it for everyday transactions, and it might just be the perfect tool for co-living arrangements.
Let’s dive into how cryptocurrency is revolutionizing shared finances in co-living spaces and why it could be the ultimate game-changer.
Living with roommates has its perks—lower rent, shared responsibilities, and built-in company. But when it comes to managing money, things can get complicated. Here are some common challenges:
This is where cryptocurrency, with its secure, transparent, and efficient system, comes into play.
Cryptocurrency is more than just an investment option. It’s a decentralized, digital form of money that allows instant transactions anywhere in the world. Here’s why it’s perfect for co-living setups:
Cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Bitcoin operate on blockchain technology, which keeps a permanent record of every transaction. It means all roommates can see when and how much was paid, eliminating disputes about contributions.
Forget about waiting days for bank transfers to clear. With crypto, payments are processed instantly, which is super handy when you’re splitting the rent or reimbursing a roommate for shared expenses.
If you live with international roommates, cryptocurrency simplifies things. There’s no need to deal with exchange rates or bank fees. Crypto works the same no matter where you’re from.
Some cryptocurrencies allow you to set up smart contracts, automated, self-executing agreements. You might use a smart contract to divide the rent evenly among all housemates on a certain day, ensuring everyone pays their fair portion without reminders.
Ready to give crypto a try? Here’s how to integrate it into your co-living arrangement:
Bitcoin is the most popular, but there are many other options like Ethereum, Litecoin, or stablecoins like USDT (which are tied to the value of the U.S. dollar). Choose one that everyone in your house is comfortable with.
Each roommate will need a cryptocurrency wallet to store and send funds. There are plenty of user-friendly options that make it easy for beginners to get started.
List all the expenses you’ll manage with cryptocurrency—rent, utilities, groceries, or even the occasional takeout night. Agree on how much each person needs to contribute and set a schedule.
For added convenience, you can create a shared crypto wallet or set up a smart contract to automate payments. It makes payments transparent and minimizes missing payments.
Not everyone might be familiar with cryptocurrency, so it’s important to have open discussions and explain how it works. Everyone may feel more confident with the aid of the many online lessons and instructions available.
If you’re still on the fence, here are some key benefits that might convince you to give it a try:
Of course, like any financial system, cryptocurrency has its downsides:
By taking a bit of time to educate yourself and your roommates, these challenges can be managed effectively.
Whether you’re a crypto enthusiast or a complete beginner, incorporating cryptocurrency into your co-living arrangement is worth considering. It’s not just a financial tool. It’s a way to bring simplicity, fairness, and trust into your shared living experience.
So, why not give it a shot? After all, co-living is about building a community, and cryptocurrency might just be the digital glue that holds it all together.
Croatian airports recorded significant growth in November 2024, serving 17.2% more passengers than the same month in 2023, reaching a total of 418,000 passengers. Over the first 11 months of 2024, passenger numbers increased by 17.2%, reaching 12.7 million, according to data from the Croatian Bureau of Statistics (DZS).
Zagreb Airport topped the charts in November 2024 with 313,000 passengers, marking a 14.3% increase compared to November 2023. Over the 11-month period, Zagreb Airport handled nearly four million passengers (3.97 million), a year-on-year increase of 16.2%.
Dubrovnik Airport came in second for November 2024 with 52,000 passengers, representing a remarkable 35.8% growth compared to the same month in 2023. Over the 11 months, the airport served nearly three million passengers (2.91 million), a 22.3% increase, making it the fastest-growing airport in Croatia in 2024.
Split Airport ranked third for November 2024, handling 48,100 passengers—a 22% increase compared to November 2023. Over the first 11 months of 2024, the airport served 3.5 million passengers, securing second place overall, with a modest annual growth of 3.5%.
In November 2024, Croatian airports saw the most international traffic with German airports, followed by the United Kingdom and France. The number of aircraft movements (takeoffs and landings) also grew by 13.4% in November, totaling nearly 6,000 operations. Over the 11 months, aircraft movements increased by 12%, exceeding 133,200 operations.
Air cargo traffic also showed positive trends, increasing by 2.5% in November 2024 to 752 tons. For the 11-month period, cargo traffic grew by an impressive 21.4%, reaching over 10,100 tons.
This sustained growth underscores the increasing importance of Croatian airports as regional hubs for both passenger and cargo traffic.
According to a Mastercard study, Croatians take an average of five vacations a year. Winter holidays are especially popular, with one in four planning a ski trip. However, skiing is a luxury not everyone can afford, particularly for last-minute planners, reports T-Portal
Given the unpredictability of snow due to climate change, Croatian skiers seek high-altitude resorts. Italy and Austria top the list, with Kronplatz—aptly nicknamed "Croplatz"—being a favorite. Ski resorts in Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and France also attract their fair share of Croatian visitors.
For more budget-conscious travelers, Eastern Europe offers fantastic skiing at lower costs. Resorts like Jahorina and Kranjska Gora are increasingly popular for their affordability and quality.
Skiing enthusiasts are notorious for their dedication, but costs have skyrocketed. While early booking is a money-saver, many still plan at the last minute. Using a case study by kompare.hr, let’s break down the costs for a Zagreb couple planning a ski trip from December 30 to January 5, 2025.
Ski Passes
A must-have for any skier, ski passes grant access to lifts and slopes. Prices vary widely. Kronplatz and Nassfeld have the highest costs for seven-day passes, while Jahorina and Les Orres are more affordable.
Equipment Rentals
For those who don’t own ski gear, rentals can quickly add to the budget. According to rental listings, Nassfeld’s equipment is the most expensive, while Kronplatz offers better deals.
Accommodation
Last-minute bookings mean limited options and higher prices. Jahorina is the most economical, while Les Orres tops the list as the priciest option due to near-full bookings.
Travel Costs
Driving remains a popular choice for Croatian skiers. A petrol car with a 7L/100km consumption rate using Eurosuper 95 (€1.45/L) adds up. According to the Europe Toll Calculator, the cheapest option is Kranjska Gora, while Les Orres is the most expensive.
Bottom Line: Jahorina emerges as the most budget-friendly destination for this couple, totaling €1,434.38. In contrast, Les Orres demands nearly €1,000 more.
Ski trips come with additional expenses:
Though skiing can be expensive, early planning unlocks substantial savings. Many agencies offer competitive package deals for those who book months in advance. The earlier you plan, the more affordable and stress-free your trip will be.
So whether you’re heading to "Croplatz" or exploring lesser-known gems like Jahorina, preparation is key to enjoying the slopes without breaking the bank.
The bura wind is causing traffic disruptions this morning as well. According to the Croatian Auto Club (HAK), traffic is restricted on the Dr. Franjo Tuđman Bridge for double-decker buses, vehicles with trailers, and motorcycles (Category I).
Additionally, the Ploče-Trpanj ferry line 633 is suspended but is expected to resume at 10:30 AM. In terms of air traffic, this morning's flight from Rijeka to Dubrovnik has been canceled.
South Korean low-cost airline T’Way Air is set to resume its seasonal flights between Seoul and Zagreb on June 10, marking the second year of this route, reports EX-YU Aviation.
The service will operate three times a week, with outbound flights making a technical stop in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, due to the Airbus A330-300’s range limitations.
Passengers will need to disembark during the stopover.
Return flights, however, will operate nonstop. Ahead of the regular schedule, T’Way Air plans a one-off flight to the Croatian capital on April 24.
The Croatian government agreed last year to sell 30 M-84 tanks and 30 M-80 armored vehicles to the German government, which would then donate them to Ukraine. The funds received for these 60 military vehicles will be partially used by Croatia to purchase new German Leopard 2A8 tanks, with a significant additional payment required, reports N1.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced last week that Germany had already delivered the tanks and armored vehicles acquired from Croatia to Ukraine by the end of last year. This was part of last year’s agreement tied to Croatia's purchase of Leopard 2A8 tanks from Germany. Pistorius made the announcement while unveiling another donation of German military equipment to Ukraine.
“We are contributing to the protection of the largest logistical hub supporting Ukraine. To this end, we will deploy two Patriot missile units and a total of 200 soldiers to Poland in the coming weeks,” Pistorius said, adding, “This is not all.” According to Večernji list, he also mentioned the provision of 50 guided missiles for Iris-T air defense systems.
At the end of last year, Germany delivered 30 M-84A4 tanks and 30 M-80 infantry fighting vehicles to Ukraine, which it had purchased from Croatia. These vehicles, originally developed in the former Yugoslavia as counterparts to Soviet designs, include the M-84, a Yugoslav version of the T-72 tank, and the M-80, modeled after the Soviet BMP-1.
Ukraine’s armed forces, already familiar with Soviet versions of these vehicles, are expected to integrate the Croatian models seamlessly and put them into use quickly. The 60 vehicles will be sufficient to equip two battalions, or half a brigade.
While Ukraine has some capacity to produce and refurbish military vehicles, most are sourced from international allies. Since the war began, Kyiv’s allies have pledged and delivered nearly 1,000 tanks and 1,500 armored vehicles. However, battlefield losses remain high, necessitating a continuous supply.
Croatia previously had around 70 M-84 tanks, and the plan is to replace them all with modern Western models. The acquisition of up to 50 new Leopard 2A8 tanks from Germany marks the beginning of this modernization effort.