As her term comes to an end, U.S. Ambassador Nathalie Rayes took to social media platform X to express her heartfelt farewell to Croatia. In a poignant message, she reflected on her time in the country and the connections forged during her tenure.

“Croatia, this is not goodbye, but rather – see you later. In my final message here, I thank you for the warm welcome and unforgettable moments we shared. Together, we strengthened the bond between our nations. I will always cherish the time spent here,” wrote Rayes.

During her time as ambassador, Rayes worked to deepen diplomatic ties between the United States and Croatia, fostering collaboration in areas such as trade, education, and cultural exchange. Her departure marks the end of a chapter filled with shared milestones and mutual respect between the two nations.

Her message resonated with many in Croatia, who have appreciated her dedication and enthusiasm. The ambassador's warm words left no doubt about the lasting impression her time in Croatia has made on her personally and professionally.

As Rayes prepares for her next chapter, her farewell echoes a sentiment of optimism and continued friendship between the two nations. Her parting words, “This is not goodbye, but see you later,” reflect the enduring connection she feels with Croatia and its people.

Croatia, this is not goodbye—it’s vidimo se. In my final message here, thank you for your warm welcome and the unforgettable moments we’ve shared. Together, we’ve strengthened the bond between our nations. I’ll always treasure my time here. ???????????????? pic.twitter.com/ihanQlg9ii

— Ambassador Nathalie Rayes (@USAmbCroatia) January 19, 2025

2025 has barely begun, and already it feels like the universe has taken a personal vendetta against the Thomas household.

They say bad things come in threes, so I’m praying this trifecta of misfortune is the year’s quota, all crammed into the first week. And let me assure you, the “Rule of Three” is not a comforting adage when you’re living it.

It all started innocently enough, with my wife’s car refusing to start.

Fair play, it’s not exactly a showroom model—more like a veteran of the roads with scars to prove it. A quick call to our local tow truck service and off it went, sulking to the garage. Little did I know that the tow truck and I were about to become far too well-acquainted.

Being the dutiful husband, I lent my car to Mrs. Thomas so she could continue her daily routines.

Bad idea.

No sooner had she driven a few miles than the clutch decided it was time to give up on life. Cue the same tow truck—I’m fairly sure the driver’s greeting had a tone of, “Oh, it’s you again.” Now, two cars down and no apparent guardian angel in sight, we were officially stranded.

Saved by a nephew who lent us his car we were mobile again.

The wife’s car, after a week of scavenger hunts for parts, was eventually brought back to life by our heroic local mechanic. Again it was a friend who saved us with the car parts, whoever said it’s not what you know, but who you know hit the nail on the head.

My car, however, remains in automotive purgatory, awaiting its resurrection.

But wait, there’s more.

Bad luck rarely misses an opportunity to add a dramatic twist, does it? Enter the third act (and yes, it also involves a car): the near-disaster.

Mrs. Thomas, out walking our two dogs, spotted a speeding car doing its best impression of a runaway roller coaster. Sensing imminent doom, she leapt to safety but landed on a patch of seaweed. Down she went, head-first. The scene, I imagine, was part slapstick comedy, part horror film.

The dogs were unharmed, in case you’re wondering, though their judgmental stares likely didn’t help.

The result? A trip to the ER, scans for her head and ribs, and a diagnosis of a mild concussion.

You remember those Tom and Jerry cartoons when Tom got hit on the head and a bruise would grow like volcano on his head? Well, that was what she looked like when I picked her up. She now resembles someone who picked a fight with Mike Tyson and lost badly.

On the bright side, she’s conscious, her sense of humour remains intact, and she’s discovered that ice packs are her new best friends. On the not-so-bright side, the Thomas household is one clumsy accident away from being featured in a Netflix documentary about cursed families.

Another friend, this time a neighbour, came to the rescue and brought her soup, tea and lunch for two days – along with another ice pack. As for me, I’ve spent much of this week reflecting on the absurdity of it all. Life has a way of throwing curveballs, and sometimes all you can do is laugh—preferably after you’ve checked for concussions and called the tow truck.

So, what’s the takeaway from this tale of woe?

For starters, I’ve learned to appreciate the small victories. Like the fact that our dogs, oblivious to the drama, have continued their walks with unshakable enthusiasm. Or that Mrs. Thomas, despite her bruises, has managed to retain her sharp wit and indomitable spirit.

And let’s not forget the invaluable lesson that seaweed and speed are a dangerous combination. As for the Rule of Three, I’m cautiously optimistic that our streak of bad luck has run its course. After all, statistically speaking, things should only improve from here. And if not, well, I’ve got the tow truck driver’s number on speed dial.

Here’s to 2025, a year that has already proven itself to be memorable—though not quite in the way we’d hoped. If nothing else, it’s given me a story to tell, a few laughs to share, and a renewed appreciation for life’s unpredictability. Cheers to that!

Read more Englishman in Dubrovnik…well, if you really want to

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

About the author

Mark Thomas (aka Englez u Dubrovniku) is the editor of The Dubrovnik Times. He was born and educated in the UK and moved to live in Dubrovnik in 1998. He works across a whole range of media, from a daily radio show to TV and in print. Thomas is fluent in Croatian and this column is available in Croatia on the website – Dubrovnik Vjesnik

Foodies and industry professionals, mark your calendars! The Dubrovnik Royal Gourmet International Festival is back for its second edition, transforming Dubrovnik into a hub of culinary creativity from February 4 to 7, 2025.

This four-day celebration of gastronomy promises a dynamic lineup of events, including exciting competitions, free masterclasses led by top chefs, and countless opportunities to network with the best in the business. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a rising talent, or a passionate food enthusiast, there’s something for everyone.

What to Expect at Dubrovnik Royal Gourmet 2025

• Thrilling Culinary Competitions: Witness chefs, pizza masters, bartenders, baristas, and even hospitality students showcase their skills in high-stakes contests.
• Free Masterclasses: Learn from industry-leading chefs and experts as they share their secrets and insights.
• Networking Opportunities: Meet and connect with professionals and enthusiasts from the hospitality and tourism industries.
• Interactive Workshops and Tastings: Dive deeper into gourmet trends and innovations with hands-on experiences.

Dubrovnik Royal Gourmet 2025 will be held in the enchanting surroundings of Dubrovnik, turning the city into an epicenter of gourmet excellence. Participants and attendees will have the chance to gain new skills, exchange knowledge, and celebrate the art of fine dining.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of gastronomy! Whether you're a spectator or a participant, Dubrovnik Royal Gourmet 2025 is set to be an unforgettable culinary experience.

As the week comes to a close, it’s time to look back at the seven most read articles. From breaking news to inspiring features, these are the seven articles that kept readers clicking and coming back for more. Missed any? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered—here’s your weekly roundup of the most-read content!

Ryanair Shifts Focus from Spain to Croatia and Other Growth-Friendly Destinations

Ryanair is setting its sights on Croatia! In a strategic shift from its traditional focus on Spain, Europe’s largest budget airline is targeting growth-friendly destinations like Croatia. With new routes and expanded connections, this move highlights the increasing appeal of Croatia as a key travel hub. Discover what this means for travelers and the local tourism industry. - LINK

On This Day: Croatia Celebrates 33 Years of International Recognition and Sovereignty

A proud milestone for Croatia! Today marks 33 years since Croatia gained international recognition and sovereignty, a historic moment that cemented its place on the global stage. Join us as we reflect on the journey of this remarkable nation and the significance of this day in its history. - LINK

Restoration of Dubrovnik's Small Onofrio Fountain Begins: A 60-Day Conservation Effort to Preserve Cultural Heritage

Preserving Dubrovnik’s history, one stone at a time! The restoration of the iconic Small Onofrio Fountain has officially begun. Over the next 60 days, this vital conservation effort will ensure that one of Dubrovnik's cherished cultural landmarks continues to stand the test of time. Learn more about the project and its significance. - LINK

Zoran Milanović Secures Landslide Victory in Dubrovnik-Neretva County, Dominating Nearly All Municipalities

A sweeping win in Dubrovnik-Neretva County! Croatian President Zoran Milanović has secured a landslide victory, dominating nearly all municipalities in the region. Explore the details of this political triumph and what it means for the county moving forward. - LINK

Croatia’s 2024 Online Shopping Trends: Rising Demand for Comfort, Sustainability, and Innovation

Croatia’s online shopping habits are evolving! In 2024, consumers are prioritizing comfort, sustainability, and innovative solutions in their purchasing decisions. From eco-friendly products to cutting-edge tech, explore the trends shaping the future of e-commerce in Croatia. - LINK

Bura Causes Traffic and Travel Disruptions in Dubrovnik Bura winds wreak havoc in Dubrovnik!

The powerful gusts have caused significant disruptions to traffic and travel across the region. From grounded ferries to hazardous roads, find out how the city is managing the impact of this iconic yet challenging weather phenomenon. - LINK

Korčula Welcomes 183,000 Tourists in 2024: A Year of Growth and Success!

A record-breaking year for Korčula! In 2024, the island welcomed an impressive 183,000 tourists, marking a year of growth and success for this enchanting destination. Discover what made Korčula a standout favorite among travelers this year. - LINK

Over the past year, from Q3 2023 to Q3 2024, Croatia recorded a remarkable 12% increase in property prices, securing the top spot in the Eurozone for property price growth.

Trailing Croatia are the Netherlands, Ireland, and Portugal, each with a 10% increase in prices, followed by Lithuania with a 9% rise. Spain and Slovenia saw an 8% growth in property values.

Conversely, property prices fell in just four EU member states. The sharpest decline was in France (-4%), followed by Finland (-3%), Luxembourg (-2%), and Germany (-1%).

According to Eurostat, average property price growth across the Eurozone varies significantly, reflecting differing economic conditions and property market dynamics among member states.

In 2024, tourist accommodation establishments across the EU recorded an estimated 2.99 billion nights, a 2% increase compared to the previous year. This represents a growth of 53.4 million nights year-over-year, reports Eurostat. 

The rise in tourism nights was primarily driven by international guests, whose stays increased by 58.7 million nights. In contrast, nights spent by domestic guests saw a slight decline of 5.3 million. The overall distribution of EU tourism nights in 2024 was relatively balanced, with 48% attributed to international guests and 52% to domestic visitors.

This data is based on early estimates released by Eurostat, providing insights into tourism trends for 2024. For a comprehensive analysis, Eurostat’s detailed Statistics Explained article on nights spent at tourist accommodation establishments offers further findings.

Accommodation Trends

Among types of accommodations, hotels and similar establishments dominated the market, accounting for 1.9 billion nights (63% of the total). Holiday dwellings and other short-stay accommodations followed with 711 million nights (24%), while campsites contributed 396 million nights (13%).

Country-Specific Growth

Compared to 2023, nearly all EU countries reported an increase in the number of nights spent in tourist accommodations in 2024. The most significant growth was observed in Luxembourg (+22%), Malta (+13%), and Latvia (+7%).

However, slight declines were noted in France and Belgium, both experiencing a 1% drop. Meanwhile, figures remained stable in Sweden, Finland, and Italy.

This positive trend underscores the resilience and growth of the EU's tourism sector, driven by a strong recovery in international travel and diverse accommodation options.

The once-luxurious military resort Kupari, near Dubrovnik, has been a dormant symbol of lost grandeur for three decades. Destroyed during the Homeland War and left untouched by its successive owners, this expansive tourist complex is finally poised for transformation. Preparations are now underway for the demolition of the derelict hotels, setting the stage for one of Croatia’s most significant tourism projects.

Photo - Mark Thomas 

In recent years, the ruins of Kupari have served as backdrops for war films and adventurous reality shows. Kate Winslet used it as a backdrop for the war film Lee and the most popular YouTuber in the world, Mr. Beast, also filmed a show there. Today, the site is abuzz with activity as protective fencing has been installed, a security service is present, and machinery is being delivered. Contractors are systematically clearing the area, separating waste, and performing other preparatory tasks to facilitate demolition. According to information directly from the team at the site today the whole demolition will start "in about ten days." And although it will be a long drawn out process it won't be as noisy as the team will not be using explosives but just mechanical diggers to destroy the former hotels. 

Mayor Silvio Nardelli of Župa Dubrovačka confirmed to HRT that, “We hope the actual demolition work will begin by the end of the month or at the start of the next, depending on the issuance of the location permit.” The Ministry of Physical Planning is expected to grant the permit by February, with a construction permit anticipated in May.

The redevelopment project, led by the Singaporean company Hotel Properties Limited (HPL), aims to restore the Grand Hotel (a protected cultural site) while constructing two new hotels and four large luxury villas. The resort will feature a total of 380 beds, marking its status as a five-star destination. Hotel Properties Limited is a Singapore-based company involved in hotel ownership, management, and property development. Founded in 1980 by Ong Beng Seng, HPL has established a reputation for luxury properties and resorts worldwide.

Photo - Mark Thomas 

Minister of Physical Planning, Construction, and State Property, Branko Bačić, stated, “According to the contract with the investor, the entire complex is to be completed within 48 months from the issuance of the construction permit.”

Infrastructure upgrades are integral to the project, including stormwater drainage, electricity supply enhancements, and the reconstruction of the Taranta River. A new high-voltage power transmission network will be constructed between Plat and Mlini, and additional work will improve the stretch from Srebreno to Kupari.

To minimize environmental impact, materials from the demolition process—expected to take seven months—will be recycled and repurposed as infill for the luxury resort’s construction.

Photo - Mark Thomas

During the works, pedestrian access to the beach has been maintained, ensuring minimal disruption to locals and visitors. The long-awaited revitalization of Kupari is a momentous step forward for Župa Dubrovačka and Croatia’s tourism sector, blending historical preservation with modern luxury.

Once a site of nostalgia and decay, Kupari is now on track to becoming one of Croatia’s premier luxury destinations, showcasing the potential of thoughtful redevelopment.

Starting Monday, January 20, comprehensive renovation works on the Zagreb Funicular will begin, with completion expected by March 2026, ZET announced on Friday.

The project, titled "Revitalization of the Zagreb Funicular," includes construction work on the renovation of the upper and lower stations, repairs to the track and viaduct, modernization of the propulsion system, installation of new cabins, and improvements to accessibility, according to ZET.

They emphasize that this way, our "Old Lady," after 50 years since its last renovation, will finally receive a well-deserved makeover, ensuring it remains a proud symbol of Zagreb for many years to come.

The funicular has been connecting the Lower and Upper Towns for 134 years and is one of Zagreb's most iconic landmarks. ZET states that preserving it for future generations is their responsibility.

During the renovation period, ZET recommends that residents and visitors use bus lines 105 (Kaptol – British Square) and 150 (Tuškanac Garage – Upper Town – Ban Josip Jelačić Square) to travel to the Upper Town.