The Croatian exhibition space stands out as one of the busiest at the New York Travel & Adventure Show, the largest U.S. tourism fair held on January 27 and 28. The presentation of Croatia at the fair was organized by the Croatian Tourist Board and the CNTB Representative Office in New York. Within the Croatian pavilion, 11 Croatian destinations showcased their offerings alongside numerous agencies and hotel companies.

"This is a renowned global tourism event, providing the Croatian tourism sector with an opportunity to highlight a wide range of domestic tourism products. The goal is to promote our country as a safe, accessible, and year-round destination. Croatia is known in the U.S. market for its breath-taking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. This recognition is evident among many agents and the audience, positioning Croatia as one of Americans' favourite European destinations," emphasized Leila Krešić Jurić, Director of the CNTB Representative Office in New York, marking the office's 25th anniversary this year.

Photo - CNTB

The significance of the fair for promoting Croatian tourism is underscored by over 1,500 accredited agents, 400 media representatives, and a 30% increase in ticket sales compared to the previous year. The Croatian Tourist Board, for the second consecutive year, secures the exhibition pavilion where presentations of regions and private sector companies, along with meetings with American agents, take place intensively during the two-day event.

CBS News at the Croatian stand in New York - Photo CNTB

"The presence of Croatia at such significant events, coupled with Croatian destinations being featured in the offerings of American tour operators and agencies, is crucial for Croatian tourism. The U.S. market is our most important distant market, contributing the highest tourist traffic, and we are very proud of the results achieved so far. Last year, we exceeded 700,000 arrivals from Americans for the first time, generating over 2 million overnight stays. In 2024, we expect a continuation of this positive trend and traffic growth," stated Kristjan Staničić, Director of the Croatian Tourist Board.

In recognition of the best and most creative approach to presenting to travel agents, the CNTB received a special award, making this year's appearance at the fair even more successful. The special award was presented to Director Leila Krešić Jurić by John V. Golicz, Director of the New York Travel & Adventure Show, in the presence of the Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to the U.S., Pjer Šimunović.

Croatia a winner in New York - Photo - CNTB

This year, agents were treated to a tasting of Croatian wines, attended by over 200 agents, along with special prizes provided by Croatian co-exhibitors. Participation in the New York fair demonstrates Croatia's commitment to expanding its presence in the American tourism market and fostering international cooperation.

Among the destinations represented at the fair are the Tourist Boards of Dubrovnik-Neretva, Split-Dalmatia, Šibenik-Knin, Zadar, Lika-Senj, and Primorje-Gorski Kotar counties. Also, the tourist boards of cities such as Dubrovnik, Split, Šibenik, and Zagreb, along with joint representation by the tourist boards of the island of Hvar, showcase the diverse offerings of Croatian tourism.