Mark Thomas
Mark Thomas - The editor and big chief of The Dubrovnik Times. Born in the UK he has been living and working in Dubrovnik since 1998, yes he is one of the rare “old hands.” A unique insight into both British and Croatian life and culture, Mark is often known as just “Englez” or Englishman. He is a traveller, a current affairs freak and a huge AFC Wimbledon fan.
Email: mark.thomas@dubrovnik-times.com
Croatia to become landfill for old European cars
Even though vehicle excise duties have been reduced, Croatian traffic experts believe that it will not increase the sale of new vehicles in the country. Moreover, they think that vast majority of people will still opt for used cars.
As from the 1st of January 2018, changes and amendments to the Motor Vehicles Excise Tax Act came into force, thus, Croatian citizens will have to pay less excise duty to the state when purchasing used vehicles, whilst the same regulation will apply to the purchase of new vehicles.
According to some estimates, this regulation should reduce duties toward the state for a few thousand Kunas. Instead of paying tax, Croats will be charged an administrative fee that will be calculated according to the age and strength of the vehicle.
The state also reduced excise duties for the purchase of a new vehicle in order to encourage citizens to opt for new cars. Therefore, for a car worth 120,000 Kunas, excise duties should be reduced up to 2,500 Kunas. However, despite all this, traffic experts believe that citizens will still not have money to buy new safer cars.
Since Croatia became a full member country of the European Union in 2013, imports of used cars from Germany and other European countries have significantly increased. The simplified procedure and smaller excise duties will lead to even bigger imports, experts believe.
‘’We will become a landfill of used cars. More than ten-year old diesel cars Germans massively export to Croatia, and many more are still to come, and that is not good’’, commented Željko Marušić, a traffic expert from Croatia.
The Dubrovnik Times caught up with popular Swedish travel writer and blogger, Alexander Waltner, also known as Swedish Nomad. He has been travelling the world since 2014 with his girlfriend Christine and has created some interesting articles. This latest one caught our eye, 55 Reasons Why Everyone Should Visit Croatia At Least Once, and has created a viral storm.
So let’s see what the Swedish Nomad recommends in Croatia -
1. NATURE
While many countries have beautiful nature, Croatia has a very diverse landscape with mountains, lakes, rivers, the Adriatic Sea, forests and lots of islands!
2. IT’S STILL REASONABLY PRICED
While Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar have become hot spots for celebrities and rich people, there are still plenty of reasonably priced accommodation, authentic restaurants and even more so outside the most popular tourist destinations.
Go as local as possible, and experience the real Croatian ways, and you’ll also get great value for your money. But, also if you like to splurge, it’s still good value if you prefer a more luxurious travel style.
3. PLITVICE LAKES
Another proof of the mighty nature of Croatia is the Plitvice Lakes, also known as “Plitvička jezera” in Croatian. Spectacular views, waterfalls and one of the most turquoise waters I’ve ever seen.
4. THE FOOD
There are many Croatian dishes that are unique, but of course, with its coastal location, they are mostly known for the quality seafood. But if you visit Hinterland and Zagreb for example, you’ll be met by quite a few traditional dishes with lots of flavours.
SOME POPULAR CROATIAN DISHES:
Pasticada
Strukli
Skampi na buzaru
Istarski Fuzi
Punjene Paprike
Sarma
Cobanac
Povrće na žaru
Pršut
punjene paprika
5. DUBROVNIK
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, well, then you probably recognize this place already. In the famous TV-Series, Dubrovnik is the real King’s Landing.
However, this city is a lot more than that. In Dubrovnik, you can explore real history from ancient times, and it’s very well preserved. However, this city is a lot more than that. In Dubrovnik, you can explore real history from ancient times, and it’s very well-preserved. Go here in May or September, and indulge the majestic atmosphere. Outside Dubrovnik, you can also visit the lush island of Lokrum, which is also of historic importance.
6. MIROGOJ CEMETERY
I’m not joking when I name this as one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world. It’s well maintained but there is also some kind of indescribable peace while walking around here.
Mirogoj is located in Zagreb, and while I normally won’t say that a cemetery is a place to visit as a tourist, this one sure is. But please do so with respect and remember that it’s a place of peace and quiet. Come here and enjoy the beauty!
7. ADVENTURES IN OMIŠ
Here you can get that adrenaline rush and go for ziplining or rafting. We tried the ziplining and it was a lot of fun! Afterward we drove up to this viewpoint and it’s truly amazing. What a beautiful place!
8. DIOCLETIAN’S PALACE IN SPLIT
This place is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Croatia. But if you come here at 6 am in the morning, you will have the whole place to yourself, and it’s magical! We walked around here by ourselves for 1 hour and also managed to get some really nice photos. When walking around the palace in the early morning it definitely feels like you’re going back in time!
9. SPECTACULAR BEACHES
Croatia has quite a few nice beaches, and here you’ll find some of the best ones:
Lubenice Beach
Vela Beach
Dubovica, Hvar
Zlatni Rat
Primosten
Lovrecina Bay, Brac
Prozid, Korcula
Zrce Beach, Pag
10. THE YACHT WEEK
Imagine yourself spending one week on a Yacht with friends and new friends, partying to the sun goes up, exploring the Adriatic Sea and just enjoy life at sea. It’s a popular festival for youths from all over the world, and if it sounds interesting, check out the video below.
11. SAINT MARK’S CHURCH
Probably the most unique church I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen quite a few! The roof of the Saint Mark’s Church is remarkable and looks almost like a gingerbread house or similar. If you go to Zagreb, this place shouldn’t be missed!
12. PAKLENICA NATIONAL PARK
Remember how I told you that nature is fantastic in Croatia? Well, here is another proof of that!
By Intipacha (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 or GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons
13. CROATIAN MUSIC
There are lots of nice music from Croatia, but here is a small preview of what it can sound like. Quite catchy!
14. MAKARSKA
A very beautiful old coastal city that has nowadays become a popular tourist destination. This is one of my favourite places in Croatia, and you’ll have proximity to everything you could possibly want.
15. THE CLIMATE
The weather is nice all-year round with mild winters compared to the colder regions of Europe and the US/Canada. The warmer temperatures during spring and autumn make it a perfect getaway from the cold as well.
16. BRAC ISLAND & ZLATNI RAT
The name Zlatni Rat translates into the golden tip/cape, and it sure is spectacular from above. It has become one of the most famous landmarks of Croatia since it has gone viral all over the world. However, even though it’s a beautiful place I must tell you that you shouldn’t have too high expectations since it won’t look the same from the ground as from above.
And it’s quite a small beach, but still very nice, and if you come here early or in shoulder season there won’t be many people. Also, the island of Brac is worth mentioning. It’s home to many idyllic places, and the towns of Puscica, Bol and Supetar are all good reasons to visit Croatia!
Photo: Szabolcs Emich
17. TROGIR
This place is really cool and just a short ride from Split, either by bus or car. It’s a bit similar to the old city of Split, but more compact I think. It’s a lot of fun to roam the small alleys of Trogir, which is one of the many historical cities in Croatia.
18. HVAR ISLAND
Another historic place that is nowadays a popular tourist destination. It’s easy to get here from Split by ferry, and when you get to Hvar there are actually a lot of things to do and see. Stari Grad and Hvar Town are definitely not to be missed!
19. THE STON CITY WALL
Does this place remind you of a more famous landmark? Yes, you’re right, it’s almost like the great wall of China. The Ston city wall is actually the second longest city wall in the world. It’s a really cool place that used to be really famous for its salt.
20. HIDEOUT MUSIC FESTIVAL & ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL
Two of the biggest EDM festivals in all over the world takes place each summer in Croatia. They are known as Hideout Music Festival and Ultra Music Festival, and here you can enjoy some of the best DJ:s with thousands of other visitors.
21. MOTOVUN
An Istrian mountain town famous for its truffle and yearly film festival. Also, the landscapes surrounding Motovun is quite similar to Tuscany in many ways.
22. MEDENJACI – CROATIAN HONEY SPICE COOKIES
One can’t simply visit another country without trying out their snacks or cookies. For me, that’s one very interesting part of traveling, to try other countries cuisine and flavours. The Medenjaci is a classic that I recommend you to try!
23. KORCULA ISLAND
Birthplace of Marco Polo and known as “little Dubrovnik” thanks to its medieval churches, palaces, and houses. This is a good place to visit if you want to escape the crowds. Sure it’s not empty as Croatia is getting more and more popular these days, but it’s less visited than Hvar, Dubrovnik, and Brac.
24. SNORKEL AMONG SHIPWRECKS
The water along the coasts and islands in Croatia is usually crystal clear, which gives you perfect conditions for snorkeling. There is also quite a few shipwrecks you could explore if you’re feeling adventurous!
25. VARAZDIN
This beautiful castle is one of Croatia’s most famous landmarks. It’s also a charming town that you shouldn’t miss out if you have time for it! The Varazdin County is also home to the Trakošćan Castle, which is open to the public!
26. THE MUSEUM OF BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS
This is a rather unique little museum that focuses on broken relationships. An interesting place to visit if you go to Zagreb.
Photo: Prosopee
27. VELEBIT NATIONAL PARK
More beautiful nature is awaiting in Velebit national park, which is also home to the highest mountain in Croatia.
28. SIBENIK
Here you can get amazed by the beautiful St. Jacob Cathedral that was enlisted on the heritage list by UNESCO in 2000. It’s an old city that was founded in the 9th century, and ever since has been an attractive place that the Austro-Hungarian, Venetians and Byzantines has fought for many times.
29. THE KORNATI ISLANDS
Beautiful scenery awaits at the uninhabited Kornati Islands!
30. WINE
Croatian wines are actually really good, although not as famous as they should be. But if you come here, make sure to go on wine tasting and order wine to every meal, you won’t be disappointed!
31. SAILING
Croatia offers some of the best sailing experiences in Europe, maybe even in the whole world. And it’s fantastic to experience the country from the sea. You get to see so many places, and at the same time enjoy the Adriatic Sea.
32. VIŠNJAN OBSERVATORY
More than 100 minor planets, two comets, and 1,400-plus asteroids have been discovered here. That’s incredible, and if you do like stars and astronomy, I suggest you go here on a Saturday from May to September and take part in of the Astro Nights.
33. GORSKI KOTAR
Another interesting place to visit in Croatia, also known as the lungs of Croatia as it’s covered in 63% forest. It’s the mountainous area that makes up the are between Rijeka and Karlovac.
34. FRITULE
A classic Christmas pastry in Croatia that is usually flavored with rum and citrus zest, containing raisins, and are topped with powdered sugar. You can find them also in other times of the year.
35. SOLARIS NATURIST RESORT
Nudist lovers have a wonderful haven at Solaris naturist resort, at least from what I’ve heard. I’m not a nudist myself, so I haven’t tried it. But if you’re a nudist or interested in becoming one, this seems to be a great place to go!
36. HUM – THE SMALLEST CITY IN THE WORLD
Keen to visit the smallest city in the world? Then you have another reason to visit Croatia. The city is called Hum, and is home to just about 24 people! But it still counts officially as a city.
37. SLAVONIA
A region that I believe deserves more attention. Tourists usually talk more about the coastal towns of Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, Makarska and so on, and the region of Slavonija is not as much visited. But those who go there will be amazed by the beautiful landscapes. Slavonija is also known for their generous usage of red paprika.
38. THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL SUNSET IN ZADAR
Alfred Hitchcock once said that Zadar is home to the most beautiful sunset, and I do think he had a good point. In addition to beautiful sunsets, you will also find an interesting old town as well as adventure activities.
39. HOME TO ONE OF THE BEST-PRESERVED AMPHITHEATERS
Do you like history and ancient places? Then you should book a trip to Pula where you can experience one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world!
40. HINTERLAND
This is another part of Dalmatia but not along the coast, but instead inland. In Croatian, it’s called Zagora, which means behind hills. Here you will also find Biokovo Mountain and the second highest peak called Sveti Jure, at 1 762 meters.
41. CROATIAN LACE
Did you know that the traditional Croatian Lacemaking is so special that it’s considered a Unesco world heritage?!
42. PASKI SIR
The famous cheese of Pag, also known as Pag Cheese although it’s called Paski Sir in the Croatian language. You can find this all over Croatia, but of course, you’ll get the best deals and quality on the island of Pag itself.
43. CHRISTMAS MARKET IN ZAGREB
When thinking of Christmas markets, you’ll probably be thinking about Germany. But the fact is that they have one of Europe’s best Christmas markets in Zagreb! It’s beautiful and frequently visited in December each year. Also, Zagreb itself is a wonderful reason to visit Croatia, and I think it’s one of the most underrated capitals in Europe!
44. RAKIJA
While many Slavic nations are drinking Rakija and have it as their national drink, it’s similar in Croatia, and therefore a reason to visit. Rakija comes in many different varieties. One popular type is the Lozovača.
45. KARLOVAC
If you don’t like the hard liquor, you can visit Karlovac and have some “pivo”, otherwise known as beer. The city itself could also be worth a visit. However, you don’t need to go to Karlovac to find Karlovacko beer. After all, it’s one of the most famous beers in Croatia, but if you like beer it could be fun to visit their factory on a guided tour and tasting!
46. OLIVE OIL
While Italy and Greece might be for famous for olive oil, there are parts of Croatia that are making some of the world’s finest olive oils, such as the region Istria.
47. ONE OF THE SAFEST COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD
Number 24 worldwide in the latest report from World Economic Forum. It’s just 0.56 points behind Number 1 safest country – Finland. Crimes are low in Croatia and you don’t have to be scared of walking into the wrong neighbourhood or stay out late.
48. LAVENDER
Another thing that is common to find in Croatia is Lavender. And even though the country used to grow more of it, there is still no shortage of it in any way. Croatian lavender is great quality as well, so make sure to bring home some lavender souvenirs.
49. NIGHTLIFE
Croatia has a well-renowned nightlife, and the summers offer some of the best parties in Europe with music playing all night long until the morning after. There are also lots of bars where you can just chill out and drink some delicious wine with friends.
50. ROVINJ
Rovinj is another good reason to visit Croatia. It’s one of the most photographed places, and it’s really picturesque!
51. BLACK RISOTTO
Basically, risotto coloured and flavoured with squid ink is a popular dish in the region of Dalmatia. Of course, you can find it in other places as well. Personally, I don’t like risotto very much, but it’s an interesting dish to try.
52. VIS ISLAND
Another lovely island in the Dalmatian region that I think you should visit.
53. SPLIT
While I have already mentioned Diocletian’s palace, the city of Split deserves a mention as well. It’s one of my favourite cities in Europe without a doubt. So many stunning buildings, the lovely Riva promenade, shopping, and of course the ideal location for exploring Southern Croatia! I love Split, and if you like football, I highly recommend to go on a Hajduk Split game. They are great, and their fans are really devoted as you will see with various arts around Split. And all in all, the city is historical and very beautiful. There is also a rumour that the women of Split are supposed to be the world’s most beautiful women!
54. KRKA NATIONAL PARK
One of the most stunning places in Europe can be found close to Sibenik. Krka National Park is home to several waterfalls and the proximity to tourist destinations makes it a perfect day trip in the south. If you go early or not during high season you can even enjoy it without the crowds!
55. THE PEOPLE
I found the Croatian people to be very friendly with a great hospitality. For example, we rented an Airbnb in Split and upon arrival, the old lady and man who owned the apartment did not speak a single word of English. Yet they went out of their way to make us feel welcomed, and since I’ve picked up a few Croatian words and sentences along the way I could make myself understood sometimes.
The smile on their faces was priceless, and the old lady even offered to do our laundry for free, and she also asked us to try some local foods. The same kind of hospitality applied everywhere, friendly and chatty folks who want to get to know you and also teach others about the Croatian culture.
Croatians are beautiful too and very passionate!
Read more excellent article from this talented travel writer here
Gold medals heading for Holland and Serbia
Whilst a great deal of the population was nursing a hangover from the New Year celebrations others were in a more athletic mood. Abhinabha Tangerman from Amsterdam was the winner of the fourth edition of the DuRun 10K International athletics race today.
It took the Dutch runner only 33 minutes and 55 seconds (average speed of 17.69 kilometres per hour) to complete the 10 kilometres course. Whilst impressive he did not break the race record that the Kenyan runner, Hillary Kiptum Maiyo Kimayio, set last year, who managed to finish in only 29 minutes and 44 seconds.
In second place was Ivan Dračar from the Athletic Club Kvarner from Rijeka, and in third was Ante Živković from Metkovac.
In the women’s race Olivera Jeftić from Serbia, a member of the Athletic Club Mladost from Užice, was this year’s winner. She was followed by Matea Matošević from the Athletic Club of Agram from Zagreb, and Marija Vrajić from the Atletic Club Maksimir from Zagreb in third.
The Croatian Kuna was among the ten currencies that strengthened most in relation to the Dollar in 2017. New data from Bloomberg indicate the movement of the world’s currencies last year and show that the Croatian Kuna increased by 13 percent in relation to the US Dollar.
The Kuna was in seventh place with a growth of 13 percent, whilst the Euro strengthened by 12.7 percent against the Dollar. The top of the Bloomberg list was Mozambique; whose currency rose by 21 percent against the Dollar.
Among the prominent winners are mainly currencies of Eastern European countries – the Czech Kruna (18%), the Polish Zlot (18%), the Serbian Dinar (17.5%), the Moldovan Leu (16.5%) and the Albanian Lek (14.5%).
With 2017 ending the final tourism figures for the year have been rolled out and they make pleasant reading for the countries tourism industry. Last year over 17 million tourists visited Croatia which is an increase of one million in comparison to 2016. A massive 100 million overnight stays were achieved, again an increase over 2016 and this time by just under 9 million. The Minister of Tourism, Gari Cappelli, emphasized his delight in the strong growth in tourism over 2017 and commented that the indicators for 2018 were even stronger.
More importantly the growth in financial benefits from tourism in 2017 were larger than 2016. The minister estimated that in 2017 Croatia earnt a whopping 11 billion Euros from the tourism industry, which is a ten percent increase over 2016. These figures have yet to be confirmed, although data is available to show that in the first nine months of last year 8.7 billion Euros was recorded.
The magical number of 20 million tourist is expected in 2018, with a growth of 5 percent indicated. “Croatia is not just a sun and sea destination anymore, Croatia has recorded excellent results outside of the summer season,” concluded Cappelli.
PHOTO - The day after the biggest night of the year
New Year’s Eve passed in fine style in Dubrovnik and after all the fun and festivities the city awoke to a chilly and busy morning.
Many people decided to make the most of the first day of 2018, a public holiday, to continue the festive spirit with a drink or two in the Old City.
Al fresco coffees, cocktails and snacks from the stands along the Stradun were the order of the day.
Check out this New Year’s Day gallery by Zeljko Tutnjevic
The traditional New Year's concert, organized by the Dubrovnik Tourist Board and the City of Dubrovnik as well as the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, was held today at Stradun at midday and attracted hundreds of tourists and locals as ever.
The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of the award-winning conductor Ivan Josip Skender and with a solo performance by the soprano Nicolina Pinko, performed Christmas classics.
Along with splendid music and dancing guests also enjoyed a glass of champagne to welcome in the New Year as well as an oyster or two, all organised by the Dubrovnik Tourist Board, all in all a great start to 2018.
VIDEO – Craziest night of the year in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik came alive to the sounds of New Year last night in a long and wild night in the city.
The main street, Stradun, was absolutely packed from one end to the other with party revellers as the regional pop star, Dino Merlin, entertained the mass crowds.
Check out the atmosphere from last night in this video from Studio Relive.
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