The inflation rate in Croatia, measured by the consumer price index, was 3.6 percent year-on-year in February, according to the State Bureau of Statistics (DZS) report on Monday. This marks the end of a four-month trend of accelerating inflation on an annual basis.

The DZS published its first estimate of the consumer price index, according to which the inflation rate in February 2025 was 3.6 percent compared to February 2024, while compared to the previous month, January 2025, it was 0.2 percent lower.

In October 2024, the months-long trend of slowing price growth on a yearly basis was broken, and after increases of 2.2 percent in October, 2.8 percent in November, 3.4 percent in December, and 4 percent in January this year, February saw the annual inflation rate return to a downward trend.

According to data from the eVisitor system, around 1,700 guests spent the weekend in Dubrovnik, which is 28 percent more than the same period last year.

In addition to domestic visitors, the most numerous guests were from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, the United States, Greece, and Japan.

Since the beginning of the year, Dubrovnik has recorded just under 29,300 arrivals and 67,400 overnight stays, which is a 5 percent decrease compared to the same period last year.

Croatia has faced its first major obstacle under the new U.S. foreign policy led by Donald Trump. According to sources from Dnevnik Nova TV, Croatia’s path to joining the OECD has been temporarily blocked. The reason? A trade dispute between the U.S. and the European Union—and this isn’t the only challenge in U.S.-Croatian relations that could escalate due to the shifting winds from the White House, reports Dnevnik.hr

Croatia had closed accession talks in 19 out of 25 OECD committees, advancing faster than expected. But when it came time for the crucial Trade Committee vote, the progress came to a screeching halt. The decision was postponed indefinitely—thanks to none other than one of Croatia’s biggest allies.

"The Trade Committee vote will take place when conditions allow. We are working closely with our American partners and the OECD on all matters related to our accession," said Zdenko Lucić, State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.

Unofficial sources suggest that the real issue is tariffs. Croatia appears to be caught in the crossfire of the ongoing U.S.-EU trade war that has reignited with Trump’s return to the White House. Despite the setback, the Croatian government remains optimistic.

"There is still a lot of work ahead of us. We aim to finalize discussions in the remaining six committees by the end of the year. For now, everything is progressing according to plan, and our goal remains to join the OECD by mid-next year," Lucić explained.

However, this isn’t the only recent complication in U.S.-Croatian relations. The long-awaited U.S.-Croatia double taxation agreement, which once seemed within reach, has stalled yet again. Republican Senator David Joyce, a key figure in U.S.-Croatian relations, weighed in on the delays.

"The issue was in Congress and changes within our Treasury Department. When this first came up in 2022, we had a different administration that wasn’t particularly eager to make changes," Joyce commented.

Still, he assured that Trump’s administration would take a different approach and praised Croatia’s diplomatic efforts. 

"From the very beginning, Croatian officials have worked closely with me, ensuring I understand their position and helping to push for a long-term solution," Joyce added.

Yet, if the OECD negotiations are anything to go by, it remains to be seen whether these promises will translate into action.

The prestigious travel magazine Conde Nast Traveller has once again turned its attention to Croatia, highlighting the country’s breathtaking islands as must-visit destinations for 2025. In its recently published article, "Croatia Islands: 15 Best to Visit in 2025," three islands from the southern region of Croatia—Korčula, Mljet, and Šipan—have secured their place on the exclusive list.

Recognized for their pristine nature, rich history, and authentic Mediterranean charm, these islands offer visitors a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Conde Nast Traveller captures the essence of island life in Dalmatia, emphasizing a unique local concept known as fjaka, described as "a deliciously lazy mood of utter contentment." This laid-back, sun-soaked lifestyle is exactly what travelers seek when exploring Croatia’s stunning coastline.

"The key to a perfect holiday? Dalmatians call it fjaka – a deliciously lazy mood of utter contentment. To help you find it, we've put together a hit list of the 15 best islands in Croatia, as chosen by a Croatia expert. For more inspiration once you're there, see our definitive list of the best beaches in Croatia or an expert guide to planning the ultimate Croatia island-hopping adventure," writes Conde Nast Traveller.

Why These Three Islands Stand Out

• Korčula – Often referred to as a "mini Dubrovnik," Korčula is known for its medieval Old Town, stunning beaches, and rich winemaking tradition. The island is also famous as the possible birthplace of explorer Marco Polo.
• Mljet – A paradise for nature lovers, Mljet is home to a stunning national park featuring saltwater lakes, dense forests, and a historic Benedictine monastery on St. Mary’s Island. It’s one of Croatia’s greenest and most tranquil islands.
• Šipan – As the largest of the Elaphiti Islands, Šipan is a hidden gem known for its olive groves, charming stone villages, and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

With its crystal-clear waters, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Croatia continues to captivate travelers from around the world. If you're planning a visit in 2025, these three southern Croatian islands should undoubtedly be on your itinerary.

The Croatian History Museum and Zagreb Airport have joined forces to create a Museum Zone inside the passenger terminal! The inaugural exhibition, "STARS OF CROATIAN HISTORY: The Sky Is Their Limit. Get to Know Them!", highlights extraordinary figures from Croatian science, culture, politics, and sports.

This exciting collaboration brings history to life, offering millions of travelers a unique opportunity to explore Croatia’s rich heritage. "Stop by the Museum Zone and discover the remarkable individuals who have left their mark beyond borders!" stated Zagreb Airport. 

Nebojša Slijepčević’s film The Man Who Couldn’t Stay Silent was the first Croatian film to receive an Oscar nomination since the country’s independence. However, at the 97th Academy Awards, it did not win in the Best Live Action Short Film category. The award went to I'm Not a Robot.

Following the announcement, the Croatian Audiovisual Centre (HAVC) shared a brief statement.

"Congratulations to all Oscar winners, and a special thank you to our The Man Who Couldn’t Stay Silent team for everything they have achieved for Croatian cinema," they posted on social media.

A study commissioned by SDP MEP Marko Vešligaj on the impact of the housing crisis on Croatian citizens has revealed that 70% of young people in Croatia (aged up to 31) report not having sufficient income to rent or purchase a property, according to Vešligaj’s office.

The study highlights stark differences in housing conditions between younger and older respondents. Those over 31 typically own or have inherited their homes, whereas younger individuals mostly live with parents or relatives—either rent-free, paying a reduced rent, or renting independently, reports N1

Financial affordability remains a major challenge, with only 39% of respondents able to afford independent living. A third require additional income sources, while 28% cannot afford it at all.

The study underscores the urgent need for state intervention, with 73% of respondents deeming affordable housing access poor. Proposed solutions include better loan conditions, increased state subsidies, and stricter rental market regulations.

Vešligaj, a member of the newly formed European Parliament Special Committee on the Housing Crisis, advocates for policies addressing housing affordability at both national and European levels.

After a week marked by unsettled weather, Dubrovnik residents and visitors can look forward to a significant improvement in conditions in the coming days. According to AccuWeather forecasts, the city is expected to enjoy clear skies and abundant sunshine throughout the week of March 3 to March 9. 

Temperatures are anticipated to be mild, with daytime highs ranging from 16°C to 20°C. This pleasant weather presents an excellent opportunity for outdoor activities, such as strolling along the historic city walls, exploring local markets, or dining al fresco in one of Dubrovnik's many charming restaurants. The consistent sunshine and warmer temperatures are a welcome change from the previous week's cloudy and rainy conditions.