This year, Red Dress Day was once again marked with the aim of raising public awareness about the unique characteristics of strokes in women.
Staff from the Neurology Department of Dubrovnik General Hospital, along with colleagues involved in stroke prevention and treatment, gathered on Friday in front of the Large Onofrio’s Fountain to show their support for female patients. They then walked along Stradun, distributing informational materials, and released red balloons in front of St. Blaise’s Church.
Notably, more women than men die from strokes, and the international Red Dress Day campaign is dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and management of cardiovascular diseases, including conditions affecting the heart and brain’s blood vessels in women.
Croatia saw a rise in cruise tourism last year, with 86 foreign cruise ships making 736 visits to its seaports, according to data from the national statistical office released on Thursday. This marks a 14% increase compared to 2023, when 85 ships completed 646 journeys.
Passenger numbers also surged, reaching 1.049 million in 2024—up from approximately 869,000 the previous year. Dubrovnik remained the most popular port of call, welcoming cruise ships 513 times, followed by Split (331), Zadar (219), and Hvar (118).
As the quiet of winter fades, spring in the far south of Croatia will once again bring energy and activity—not just in terms of tourism. At the end of March, Dubrovnik will serve as the backdrop for an episode of ABC’s hit American reality show The Bachelorette, where 25 men compete for the heart of the 'perfect bride.'
Unofficial sources indicate that the episode filmed in Dubrovnik will air at the beginning of the new season and will feature multiple locations across the city. Interestingly, The Bachelorette was previously filmed in Dubrovnik in 2012, and nine years later, in 2021, the U.S. version of The Bachelor used Hvar as a filming location, reports Dubrovački Vjesnik.
While details of the upcoming shoot in Dubrovnik remain under wraps, one thing is certain—love will soon be in the (spring) air in Dubrovnik!
The Dubrovnik Tourist Board proudly announces the launch of an exclusive marketing campaign in New York, one of the world’s most influential cities. As part of strategic promotional activities in international markets, Dubrovnik will be featured from February 3 to 16, 2025, on a prestigious digital screen in Times Square, one of the world’s most iconic advertising locations.
Displayed on an imposing screen at the northern entrance to Times Square—standing nearly 30 meters tall—a captivating 15-second video with the message “Alluring Dubrovnik, Croatia” will be broadcast. Due to its unique shape and prime location, this screen attracts the attention of millions of passersby, including Broadway theatergoers, tourists, shoppers, and business professionals working in the heart of New York City. It is estimated that during the campaign, the video will reach more than 13.7 million people.
"Dubrovnik’s presence in Times Square is a great honor and a strategically important step in strengthening our city's recognition in the American market. This campaign not only reinforces Dubrovnik’s image as a prestigious global destination but also further positions our city in the minds of potential travelers from the U.S.," said Miro Drašković, the Director of the Dubrovnik Tourist Board.
American tourists ranked second in the number of visits to Dubrovnik in 2024, with 186,869 arrivals and 513,234 overnight stays—an increase of 11% in arrivals and 10% in overnight stays compared to the previous year.
The United States is one of Dubrovnik’s key markets, and the Dubrovnik Tourist Board continues to invest in its promotion through digital campaigns, media collaborations, and participation in leading tourism fairs and business workshops. The Times Square campaign represents another step forward in enhancing Dubrovnik’s global visibility and inspiring future travel in 2025.
Australia is endowed with some of the world's best solar resources, receiving more than 58 million petajoules of solar radiation per year - more than Australia's total annual energy consumption[1]. However, only a small percentage of Australia’s electricity is currently supplied by solar power. With abundant land and sun, coupled with innovations in solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, Australia has the potential to become a renewable energy superpower through the widespread adoption of solar power.
Transitioning Australia's energy infrastructure to use more solar power is critical both for mitigating climate change and strengthening energy security. Australia is already experiencing the impacts of climate change, with rising temperatures, extreme heatwaves, bushfires, floods and droughts becoming more frequent and intense.
Shifting to renewable solar energy can drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector, which is responsible for 34.6% of Australia’s total emissions[2]. Phasing out fossil fuels and embracing solar energy will allow Australia to significantly curb its carbon footprint and promote environmental sustainability.
The transition to solar power represents a bright path forward for Australia’s energy future. With the right investments, policies and political will, Australia can leverage its natural solar advantages to become a renewable energy superpower and make meaningful contributions towards addressing climate change and energy crises globally. The time for widespread solar adoption is now.
Solar energy technologies harness the renewable power of the sun to generate electricity and heat for human needs in a sustainable manner. The two primary technological approaches are photovoltaics (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP), both supplemented by energy storage innovations
1. Photovoltaic (PV) technology
Photovoltaic panels, commonly known as solar panels, directly convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. Solar cells made of semiconductor materials such as silicon absorb incoming sunlight in the form of photons, causing electrons to break free and flow through the material to produce a DC electric current.
Today’s crystalline silicon solar panels operate at 15-20% efficiency, generating over 100 watts per square meter. PV system components include solar panels, mounting systems, inverters to convert DC to grid-compatible AC power, plus wiring and electrical protection devices.
PV provides a modular, versatile method of harnessing the sun over small and large scales. Rooftop solar adoption is rapidly growing in Australia, while large utility-scale projects like the recently approved 400MW New England Solar Farm represent the expanding frontiers of solar PV capacity.
2. Concentrated solar power (CSP) technology
Concentrated solar power systems utilize mirrors to concentrate solar irradiation onto a focal point, heating a fluid medium to high temperatures, which then drives a steam turbine and generates electricity via a conventional thermodynamic power cycle.
CSP technologies allow integrated thermal energy storage by storing excess heat, enabling electricity production on demand day and night. Storage capabilities and dispatchability are significant advantages of CSP over conventional PV. The 150MW Aurora Solar Power Project will provide 1,100MWh of CSP storage, contributing stability to the grid.
3. Energy storage
Storage innovations are critical enablers for greater grid penetration of solar technologies. Beyond CSP-integrated storage, dedicated battery storage systems charged by solar PV can smooth output and shift solar power to peak periods.
Emerging solutions like concentrated solar fuels involve using solar heat in chemical processes like splitting water to produce storable hydrogen fuel. With further technological advances in batteries and new storage techniques, the full potential of Australia’s tremendous solar resources can be harnessed through sunny days and nights.
Switching to solar power would deliver immense environmental, economic, and health benefits to Australia. Solar represents a clean, sustainable energy source that can enhance ecological resilience, drive economic growth, and improve public health nationwide.
1. Environmental benefits
Solar power generation produces negligible greenhouse gas emissions during operation compared to fossil fuel energy sources. This would bring substantial air quality improvements and support national emissions reduction targets under the Paris Agreement.
Concerns regarding solar panel waste are being resolved through circular economy innovations like recycling programs. Furthermore, innovating the solar manufacturing process to minimize emissions and resource use can make production fully sustainable. Solar energy can prevent deforestation for fuel, support biodiversity and help Australia maintain its natural assets - vital for industries like tourism.
2. Economic advantages
Solar power offers significant cost savings that stimulate economic productivity. Solar PV electricity prices have fallen 89% in 10 years, making rooftop solar the cheapest form of electricity for households, according to CSIRO and AEMO. Solar fuels like green hydrogen enabled by electrolysis from renewable energy can also provide affordable zero-emission fuels for transportation when production scales. Lastly, widespread domestic solar adoption would create over 50,000 skilled jobs and position Australia as a renewable energy exporter and R&D hub.
3. Health benefits
Rapid solar power expansion delivers critical public health gains. Solar PV and CSP emit no health-damaging air pollutants like particulate matter during operation. Phasing out coal and gas would prevent numerous morbidity cases and premature deaths in Australia every year.
Additionally, electrifying energy services like heating and transport with solar power drastically cut hazardous indoor and outdoor air pollution. Investing Australia’s abundant renewable resources in solar energy is key for sustaining healthy communities.
The environmental, economic and health merits demonstrate solar power’s immense potential as a win-win solution, satisfying Australia’s energy needs while securing ecological and public health and enabling prosperous, sustainable development.
The solar revolution would transform how Australians power their lives - from households to workplaces to entire communities. Solar technologies can sustainably satisfy diverse energy needs at all scales for a sun-fueled future.
1. Home energy solutions
More Australian households than ever are installing rooftop solar PV systems to slash power bills and emissions. With today's highly efficient panels and government rebates, home solar battery systems like Tesla Powerwall now offer economical zero-carbon energy autonomy.
Soon, solar could meet all household needs from refrigeration to electric vehicle charging to water heating. Researchers are also testing innovative solar technologies like windows with transparent solar cells. Within years, solar-powered homes could become standard in Australia.
2. Commercial solar applications
Companies, small and large, can leverage solar energy to eliminate overheads and environmental impacts while showcasing sustainability. Walmart Australia has solar panels in nearly all stores, generating 17-30% of each store's usage.
The Sydney Cricket Ground aims for 100% onsite solar generation. Commercial and industrial solar uptake is projected to increase at least fivefold in NSW by 2030. Off-grid solar plus storage already powers remote mines and farms cost-effectively around Australia.
Solar fuels like green hydrogen can decarbonize heavy industry, aviation and haulage. Capitalizing on Australia’s superb solar resources, companies could soon operate facilities solely on sunlight.
3. Community solar projects
Shared community solar projects allow members to enjoy benefits like bill savings without installing private systems. Australia’s first fully crowdfunded community solar station started operation in NSW this year. The City of Sydney aims to develop community solar gardens. Ambitious large-scale initiatives also bring solar to communities - the Australia-ASEAN Power Link would transmit Australian solar power to Singapore on a grand scale from 2027.
Such projects can ensure all Australians access affordable, reliable, and renewable electricity regardless of housing situation. Solar co-operatives similarly make clean energy inclusive. As solar expands, communities can lead grassroots solar transitions.
With solar power’s remarkable cost and efficiency advances, climate-safe sun-fueled lifestyles are now within reach for Australian households, businesses and communities alike - spurring society toward sustainability.
Australia's abundant sunshine and outdoor lifestyle make solar power an excellent match for energizing activities from camping to festivals. Portable solar innovations are set to transform outdoor recreation.
1. Camping, road trips and picnics
Camping is embedded in Australian culture, with over 6.8 million yearly participants. Solar-powered gadgets are ideal for off-grid outdoor escapades. Portable foldable solar panels now charge phones, cameras and handheld devices on the go. Solar-assisted electric vehicles like caravans maximize self-sufficiency on road trips through large rooftop solar arrays.
Purpose-built portable power stations contain solar panels, batteries and outlets for powering everything from lights to kitchen appliances. Future solar tech, like biophilic designs with energy-harvesting tent fabrics, could fully sustain off-grid adventures. They are perfect for using solar power for camping.
Plus, solar barbecues now offer eco-friendly flameless cooking, harnessing sunlight to reach sizzling temperatures, perfect for sunny park picnics. Solar-powered e-skies run by battery packs charged via solar panels keep food chilled for days without ice, revolutionizing outdoor catering convenience. From desert camping under starry skies to lakeside grill lunches, solar energy enables sustainable creature comforts in Australia's great outdoors.
2. Outdoor events
Music festivals in Australia attract over 5 million people annually. Large-scale events like Splendour in the Grass now integrate solar infrastructure, including solar shade canopies over stages, solar-powered phone chargers and off-grid solar systems powering campsites - saving over 120 tonnes of event emissions.
Aussie entrepreneurs have developed transportable solar generators big enough to run festival sound systems. Local beach days and community events are also solar-powered; Manly Beach uses solar-panelled beach umbrellas.
With portable and scalable solar solutions, Australia’s beloved outdoor activities, from ephemeral gatherings to multiday extravaganzas, can operate sustainably, sharing sunlight and joy. The solar revolution promises a bright future for play and adventure outdoors under the sun.
Harnessing the power of portable solar energy solutions is critical for realizing the solar revolution in everyday Australian life. Jackery offers cutting-edge solar electric generator options integrating high-efficiency solar panels with durable batteries to provide renewable off-grid power for endless outdoor applications and home energy needs.
1. Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus defines the apex of solar-powered independence for off-grid living. This ultra-capacity generator packs a formidable 2042Wh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery with 3000W AC output expandable to a weeklong 12kWh with additional batteries.
Powering 99% of appliances and devices, the emission-free Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus supports van life road trips, outdoor events, emergency home backup and complete off-grid solar autonomy thanks to Jackery’s advanced portable IBC solar panels capable of rapid 6-hour solar recharging.
2. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus
Striking the ideal balance between robust capacity and compact mobility, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus delivers 1264Wh battery capacity with 2000W AC output expandable to 5kWh for 1-3 days of home backup electricity. The integrated BMS system allows connecting extra Jackery Explorer batteries on-demand.
Featuring Jackery’s cutting-edge IBC solar charging technology, the Jackery Solar Generator1000 Plus achieves ultra-fast solar recharging in just 4.5 hours with 400W solar input. From camping trips to outdoor parties, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus provides eco-friendly off-grid power in a portable package.
3. Jackery Solar Generator 600 Plus
As Jackery’s lightest solar generator at just 16 pounds, the Jackery Solar Generator 600 Plus offers ultimate portability with an impressive 632Wh capacity and 800W AC output, keeping essential devices and appliances powered anywhere.
The silent solar power generator charges quickly from wall outlets and carports, while Jackery SolarSaga 100W foldable solar panels make solar charging smooth and fast even on the go. Built rugged and drop-proof with supreme battery management and safety systems, the workhorse Jackery Solar Generators 600 Plus solar generator powers cameras, drones, medical devices, mini-fridges and more - perfect for expeditions into Australia’s wild backcountry chasing the ultimate solar adventure.
With Australia at a pivotal crossroads demanding climate action and energy security, widespread solar power adoption is no longer just an option - it is an urgent imperative. By harnessing abundant renewable solar resources, Australia can thrive as a sustainable economy while securing its environmental and public health futures.
Every Australian should embrace this bright opportunity. Installing rooftop solar panels or purchasing portable power stations like Jackery's revolutionary solar generators lets households tap into boundless solar energy for all needs. The time for sunlight is now. Let the solar revolution shine across Australia to power cleaner, healthier lives outdoors and in homes. Make a purchase from Jackery to make great use of solar power and light up a brilliant future.
References:
Solar Energy. Available at: https://www.ga.gov.au/scientific-topics/energy/resources/other-renewable-energy-resources/solar-energy. Accessed:15 October 2024
Stationary energy emissions projections: 2012. Available at:http://www.climatechange.gov.au/sites/climatechange/files/files/climate-change/projections/aep-stationary-energy.pdf. Accessed:15 October 2024
For generations, Croatians have left their homeland in search of better opportunities. Today, an estimated 3.2 million people either emigrated relatively recently or have Croatian ancestry. The country’s accession to the European Union in 2013 opened the floodgates for migration, with many seeking work in wealthier EU nations. But while they may have left, they certainly haven’t forgotten home, reports TPortal.
Remittances—money sent back by Croatians living abroad—are growing year by year, now making up a significant portion of the country’s economy. In 2022, transfers from the diaspora accounted for a staggering 7.34% of Croatia’s GDP, the highest proportion of any EU country.
Figures from the Croatian National Bank (HNB) illustrate the scale of these financial lifelines. In 2020, remittances totalled €3.669 billion. By 2021, that figure had exceeded €4.2 billion. In both 2022 and 2023, the total surpassed €5 billion.
In the first nine months of 2024 alone, Croatians abroad sent back €4.641 billion. The full-year figure, expected in spring, could well top €5 billion again, reinforcing Croatia’s dependence on its expatriate workforce.
Germany remains the dominant source of remittances, with over €1 billion arriving each year. In 2020, Croatians in Germany transferred €1.647 billion home, a number that climbed to €1.767 billion in 2021 and then nearly €2 billion in 2022. By 2023, the milestone was broken, with €2.146 billion recorded. In just the first nine months of 2024, the total stood at €1.78 billion.
But Germany isn’t the only player. In recent years, Ireland has emerged as an increasingly important source of income for Croatia’s economy. In 2020, remittances from Ireland stood at €270.5 million. By 2023, that figure had more than doubled to €607.4 million. In the first three quarters of 2024, €504.2 million had already been sent, suggesting another record-breaking year.
Another surprise is the Netherlands, which has seen a significant rise in remittances. In 2020, Croatian workers there sent home just €77 million. By 2023, that number had skyrocketed to €554.5 million—a remarkable increase.
Meanwhile, Austria and Slovenia—longstanding destinations for Croatian migrant workers—continue to contribute significant sums, albeit at a steadier pace. In 2020, each country sent around €180 million in remittances. By 2023, Austria’s contribution had climbed to €436.2 million, while Slovenia’s reached €285 million.
Over the past five years, remittances have consistently accounted for more than 7% of Croatia’s GDP, making it one of the most dependent nations on its overseas workforce. In 2022, the figure hit a record high of 7.45%.
The flow of money is a vital economic buffer, particularly in a country grappling with a shrinking workforce and rising emigration. While remittances bring much-needed financial support to families, they also raise concerns about Croatia’s long-term economic sustainability. As more skilled workers leave, the economy remains heavily reliant on those abroad to support those who stay.
For now, Croatia’s diaspora continues to provide a financial lifeline. But with remittances outpacing revenue from tourism in some years, it raises a difficult question: what happens if the money stops flowing?
Dubrovnik Airport recorded 19,856 passengers in January 2025, marking an impressive 31.54% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
With an expanded network of routes and connections, the airport looks forward to continued growth throughout the rest of the year, as announced on its official Facebook page. "What a Great Start to the Year!" commented the airport on thier social media channels.
From February 13 to 16, the Dubrovnik Tourist Board is organizing a varied and rich program for Valentine's Day. An unforgettable Valentine’s Day in Dubrovnik will provide couples and all romance lovers with a unique experience through a series of events, such as Valentine’s Gourmet Days in Dubrovnik restaurants, a humanitarian concert by Marko Škugor in the special ambiance of the Marin Držić Theatre, and themed tours "Traces of Love from the Past," which take visitors back to Dubrovnik’s romantic history.
The Dubrovnik Tourist Board traditionally organizes Valentine’s Gourmet Days in sixteen Dubrovnik restaurants, running from February 13 to 16. The restaurants have prepared special, creative menus so that locals and their guests can enjoy gastronomic delicacies. From traditional local specialties to international culinary surprises, Valentine’s Day is an opportunity for a unique gastronomic experience. You can browse the brochure with the special menus at the following link: Valentine’s Gourmet Days Brochure.
A special evening of this romantic week is reserved for a concert by Marko Škugor, which will take place on February 14 at 8:00 PM at the Marin Držić Theatre. This unique musical event, organized in collaboration with Lions Club Dubrovnik, is a blend of romance and humanitarian action. Tickets, priced at 20 euros, are a donation to the Down Syndrome Association of Dubrovnik-Neretva County and can be purchased at the Marin Držić Theatre box office. We invite all visitors to support this noble cause and create an unforgettable experience together.
All couples and history lovers will have the opportunity to explore the city's romantic past through the themed tours "Traces of Love from the Past" by Lidija Begić, taking place on February 8 and 13. These special walks will reveal fascinating stories and legends of love that have marked Dubrovnik’s streets for centuries. The tours start at 9:30 AM in English and 12:30 PM in Croatian from the TIC Pile. Due to the limited number of participants, reservations are required no later than the day before by 5:00 PM, via email or by phone at +385 20 312 011.
"We invite all visitors to join these special events, share moments of love, and support the humanitarian action to make Valentine’s Day even more special," stated the tourist board.
In Croatia, 4,461 new passenger cars were sold in January this year, the same as in January 2024, according to data from Promocija plus published on Tuesday, which also shows that Volkswagen had the highest number of sales.
A total of 548 Volkswagen vehicles were sold in the first month of this year, securing a market share of 12.3%. Škoda ranks second with 529 new cars sold and a market share of 11.9%, while Suzuki is third with 344 units sold, accounting for 7.7% of the market. Dacia holds fourth place with 308 vehicles sold, and Opel is fifth with 286.
The best-selling model last month was the Volkswagen T-Cross, with 263 units sold. The Suzuki Vitara and Opel Corsa were each chosen by 188 buyers, while the Škoda Octavia and Kodiaq were purchased by 184 and 124 customers, respectively.
In January 2025, Croatian buyers preferred petrol cars the most, with 1,995 units sold, making up 44.7% of total sales. Hybrids were also in demand, with 1,751 units sold, representing 39.3% of total sales. Diesel vehicles ranked third, purchased by 492 buyers (11%). LPG was chosen 142 times, while fully electric cars attracted 81 buyers, accounting for 1.8% of total sales.
The popular travel portal European Best Destination has published a list of the best activities and experiences across Europe, highlighting two must-visit destinations in Croatia that offer tourists an unforgettable experience, reports N1.
European Best Destination recommends refreshing yourself in Krka National Park, describing it as a paradise on Earth. Covering an area of 110 square kilometers, this park is considered one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders and ranks among the top activities and tours in Europe.
Magnificent waterfalls cascade into turquoise crystal-clear lakes, creating an idyllic setting perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking a breathtaking escape.
Plitvice Lakes National Park has been recognized by travelers worldwide as the most beautiful national park in Europe. Visiting this spectacular site is simply one of the best experiences Europe has to offer.
Nestled between two remarkable cities—Zagreb, named the best Christmas destination, and Zadar, voted the best destination in Europe—this national park stands as one of the most breathtaking places to visit in the region.