The Bishop of Dubrovnik, Monsignor Roko Glasnović, blessed the new city banner of Saint Blaise ahead of today's ceremonial session of the Dubrovnik City Council, traditionally held at the Marin Držić Theatre to mark the City Day and the Festivites of Saint Blaise.

The silk flag was painted by Dubravko Kovačević, an electrical engineer by profession and a talented artist from Prijeko, known for his dedication to painting and preserving local history. A distinguished guardian of intangible heritage, he is also the author of Saint Blaise and His Festanjuli, a valuable contribution to the preservation of Dubrovnik's traditions and culture.

In Croatia, retail consumption rose for the 21st consecutive month in December on an annual basis, indicating stable economic growth in the fourth quarter of last year.

The Croatian Bureau of Statistics published a report on retail trade turnover on Thursday, showing that in December, according to seasonally adjusted data, consumption increased by 0.7% compared to the previous month, while compared to December of the previous year, it rose by 6.5%.

Thus, retail consumption grew for the 21st consecutive month on an annual basis, at a similar rate to the previous month, when the growth was 6.7%.

Retail turnover from the sale of food, beverages, and tobacco products increased by 2.6%, while turnover from non-food products (excluding motor fuels and lubricants) rose by 10.5%.

Throughout the entire previous year, retail turnover increased by 7.3% in real terms compared to the previous year.

Since consumption is the largest component of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the strong retail trade turnover growth in December, as well as in previous months, indicates the continuation of stable economic growth in the fourth quarter of last year.

In the third quarter of last year, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased for the 15th consecutive quarter, growing by 3.9% on an annual basis.

Croatia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Gordan Grlić Radman, and Minister of Economy, Ante Šušnjar, are on an official visit to Qatar aimed at strengthening political and economic cooperation between the two countries, reports HRT. 

During the visit, they met with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, and participated in the Croatia-Qatar Economic Forum in Doha.

“We exchanged views on strengthening bilateral relations, energy security, and current global challenges. I am especially pleased that the forum in Doha provided an opportunity to connect our businesspeople,” said Grlić Radman.

Minister of Economy Ante Šušnjar emphasized that the discussions focused on energy issues and showcasing the potential of Croatian companies in the Qatari market.

“We are ready to collaborate in improving energy security and diversifying energy supply. We also presented the opportunities for Croatian companies in sectors such as defense industry, pharmaceuticals, ICT, and more,” said Šušnjar.

In the world of luxury tourism, top-notch service and personalized experiences are what set destinations apart. Enisa Grebović, head concierge at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik, offers exactly these high standards of hotel service, with her knowledge, passion, and dedication to guests. She is currently in the process of earning the prestigious Les Clefs d'Or keys. We spoke with her about the role of a concierge for business and luxury guests, how it contributes to Dubrovnik's image as a premium destination, and why the Les Clefs d'Or keys are so highly esteemed.

• Could you briefly describe your role as the head concierge at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik? What does this role entail?

As head concierge, my task is to be the host for all our guests—the person you’ll often encounter at the reception and throughout the resort. I greet, organize, address inquiries and requests, and collaborate with other departments, always with the aim of making our guests feel at home and turning their wishes into reality.

I come to work every day with joy, excited for each new day and what it will bring. I have the privilege of working with a team of young, talented people, and my goal is to share my knowledge with them and help them grow in this profession, which for me is the most beautiful in the world. Our greatest success is when a guest feels a genuine welcome—because we greet them as if they were coming to our home.

 • Concierge services are often associated with leisure guests. Are they in demand among business guests and event organizers (the MICE segment)? If so, what kinds of requests do you most often receive from business guests and conference participants?

Absolutely! Business guests often have pre-planned activities, but there are always those who seek something extra, something special. I’m talking about experiences that they can only have in Dubrovnik, carefully planned and completely tailored to their desires. This is our role—a concierge is here to turn the dreams of all guests into reality.

• How do you see the role of the concierge in enhancing the overall experience of Dubrovnik for business and private guests?

The role of the concierge is extremely important because individualized service and excellence are not just expectations today; they are the standard to which guests aspire. I believe it is crucial that all our hotels recognize the value of concierge services and work to include them in their offerings—and we are here to support them in that. This would mean a lot, not just for the guests, but for the entire destination, further positioning Dubrovnik as a luxury destination on a global level.

• What is the future of Dubrovnik in the luxury tourism segment, and what do you think is the most important factor that makes it competitive in the global market?

Based on my experience and the work I do, I am confident that Dubrovnik has a bright future in the luxury tourism segment. Today, more than ever, guests seek authenticity in the destinations they visit. They want a human touch, sensitivity, and the time we dedicate to them. We are here to enhance their stay and provide them with an unforgettable experience in our beautiful city. They will take with them only the most beautiful memories, and in the Sun Gardens Dubrovnik, we never say a final goodbye to our guests—we always say, “See you soon!”

Sun Gardens Dubrovnik

The most important factor that makes Dubrovnik competitive in the global luxury tourism market is its authenticity and unique connection to history and culture. The city offers an unforgettable experience, combining rich cultural heritage with luxury services and amenities. Dubrovnik is globally recognized, and its unique charm, beauty, and high-quality service make it incredibly attractive to luxury tourists. Additionally, the personal touch, attention to detail, and authentic offerings are key factors that set it apart from the competition.

 • You meet many different people and personalities in your job. Surely you have many interesting stories. Can you share an anecdote or unforgettable experience?

I have so many stories and anecdotes that I like to say that when I retire, I will definitely write a book. The experience, with its funny, beautiful, and sometimes sad moments, stays in your heart. If I had to pick a few… perhaps the story about a prince who, despite having everything, considered his most beautiful day the one when I organized a cooking experience at a local home. There have also been numerous marriage proposals I have organized at various attractive locations. I also remember a conference participant who wanted a spicy sauce he had received as a gift in America. The photo was unclear, but I didn’t give up. After he left, I found the sauce in Pašman, in a small family business, and sent a package to America.

There are many such stories—from organizing luxury experiences to taking care of famous personalities. There have been globally recognized actors and singers, and when you end up as a special guest at a concert, you know you’ve truly done something special.

The bigger the challenge, the greater the satisfaction—that’s where the magic of this job lies, and with the help of colleagues in our concierge world, nothing is impossible.

• Where are you in the process of obtaining the prestigious Les Clefs d’Or keys? What does this process entail?

My keys will soon arrive in Dubrovnik, and we’re only waiting for the final date. The process has taken a bit longer than usual due to specific circumstances and the fact that Croatia does not yet have its own branch, but that only makes the achievement of this goal even more rewarding.

The process of obtaining the prestigious Les Clefs d'Or keys is truly demanding because you have to meet many conditions. You must be employed at a luxury hotel, have at least five years of experience, including three years as a concierge. You also need letters of recommendation from all your employers, both current and past, and of course, you must have worked under the mentorship of Les Clefs d'Or concierges.

I have been fortunate to have outstanding mentors and colleagues such as Jasmina Huskić, Sarah Buljat, and Gloria Luna Steiner, who have been with me every step of the way, assisting me in this process.

• What does membership in Les Clefs d’Or and ownership of the keys mean for you personally, for Sun Gardens Dubrovnik, and for Dubrovnik as a destination?

For me, this will be the pinnacle of my career—a symbol I will wear with pride because every story and every year of work will be woven into those two golden keys. All my experience and effort are encapsulated in those badges, which guests recognize as a sign of quality and trust. When they see the keys, they know they are in safe hands. This year I am also celebrating my fiftieth birthday, so these keys will be the best gift and motivation. They are the wind in my sails, pushing me to proudly carry the keys, share my knowledge with younger generations, and work with my colleagues to achieve our common goal—establishing the Croatian Les Clefs d’Or branch.

For our resort, these keys represent additional recognition of excellence, confirming that we provide service at the highest global level. They are a symbol of trust that tells our guests that they can expect unforgettable experiences and attention to every detail.

For the destination, the golden keys bring prestige and confirm that Dubrovnik is not just a beautiful destination, but one that can offer world-class, personalized service. This is a step forward in positioning Dubrovnik as a luxury destination, where every guest can find the perfect blend of history, culture, and exceptional service.

• Croatian members are part of the Les Clefs d'Or Italy branch, and their congress was successfully held last year in Croatia, in Opatija. Are there any plans or desires to organize such or similar events in Dubrovnik?

Yes, I am extremely pleased to have had the opportunity to participate in organizing the congress in Opatija, with the support of my previously mentioned mentors and dear colleagues who did a truly magnificent job. The result was impressive—we literally left our Italian guests speechless.

Opatija, with its timeless charm and beauty, was the ideal backdrop for such an event, and the organization under the auspices of Les Clefs d'Or had to be flawless.

Who knows, maybe one of the future congresses will be held right here in Dubrovnik—especially now that the golden keys are shining in our city.

There is certainly interest in organizing such events, and Dubrovnik, with its global reputation, will surely attract a lot of attention.

• You have worked in Canada, which has certainly shaped your approach to working with guests from different cultures. How do you apply that experience today at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik?

I spent half of my working life in Canada, and I consider myself an incredibly rich person because I had the opportunity to meet different cultures, gain invaluable experiences, and form friendships that last to this day. Nothing brings people and cultures closer than living abroad and the practical experience that comes with it.

I lived in Vancouver, a city known for its multiculturalism, and I often say that it felt like I lived in many different countries at the same time. However, my desire has always been to return home and do what I love in my own city. Representing and promoting what you love is one of the most beautiful things in life.

Guests often ask me why I returned, and I always tell them the same thing: just look through the window of my workplace. It’s clear—who can pay for such beauty?

This article was published in collaboration with the Convention Bureau of the Dubrovnik Tourist Board

The long-abandoned Kupari resort near Dubrovnik is finally being transformed after three decades of neglect. Once a luxurious military retreat, the complex was destroyed during the Homeland War and left in ruins. Today, demolition preparations are visibly underway, with security fencing installed, heavy machinery arriving, and workers clearing debris.

Prepoartions for demolition work underway - Reader's photo 

Singapore’s Hotel Properties Limited (HPL) will oversee the redevelopment, preserving the historic Grand Hotel while adding two luxury hotels and four villas, totaling 380 beds. The €200 million project must be completed within 48 months of obtaining a construction permit.

Infrastructure improvements will include new power networks, stormwater drainage, and the reconstruction of the Taranta River. Demolition materials will be recycled to minimize environmental impact.

Despite ongoing works, pedestrian access to the beach remains open. Kupari’s long-awaited transformation is now in motion, turning a war-torn relic into a world-class luxury destination.

On the Occasion of the Festivities of St. Blaise and Dubrovnik City Day, Mayor Mato Franković Sends a Message to Citizens

Dear ladies and gentlemen, esteemed people of Dubrovnik,

With great pleasure, on behalf of the City of Dubrovnik and myself, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on Dubrovnik City Day and the Festivites of St. Blaise, our heavenly protector.

For over a millennium, Dubrovnik and St. Blaise have been inseparably connected. This centuries-old bond has shaped our identity, woven into every stone of our city, every family, every street, every story, and every tradition. St. Blaise serves as an inspiration for all of us, urging us to persevere through challenges, just as generations before us have done.

The Festivities of St. Blaise, which gave our ancestors strength in difficult and defining times, today stands as a beacon of our tradition and unity. Every banner that waves, every bell that rings, and every prayer offered to our beloved patron bear witness to our deep connection with him. Dubrovnik’s people around the world, no matter where they may be, carry this Feast in their hearts, finding in it strength, faith, and hope.

Once again, the Festivities of St. Blaise calls us to unity, pride, and love for our city. It is more than just a celebration—it is a vow and a message to safeguard all that we are and all that we represent. Our cultural and historical heritage obliges us to continue protecting our city, its legacy, and everything that makes Dubrovnik unique in the world.

May his powerful intercession continue to protect us and guide us through every storm and into the light of a new day. May St. Blaise watch over us, our families, and our homes.

Long live St. Blaise!

The Dubrovnik Tourist Board, in cooperation with the City of Dubrovnik, is once again organizing the traditional Tombola, a favorite event of the Festivities of St. Blaise. The event will take place on Monday, February 3, 2025, starting at 4:00 PM. Tickets will be sold from 3:00 PM in front of Sponza Palace at a price of two euros. The Dubrovnik Tourist Board invites everyone to participate in this fun, charitable game, with all proceeds from ticket sales going to the Deša Association – Fund for Victims of Violence.

According to tradition tombola, as recorded by Dubrovnik historian Josip Bersa, dates back to 1842, is played in the afternoon of the Festivities of St. Blaise in front of Sponza Palace. 

The Tombola on Stradun is a traditional event, as this game is deeply rooted in Dubrovnik’s tradition and family life. Even today, it remains a favorite pastime across generations. In the humorous spirit of Dubrovnik residents, who enjoy playful teasing, the game has historically involved "cheating," throwing bitter oranges and eggs, and lively commentary on each drawn number. The numbers are called from the terrace of Sponza Palace, with the audience reacting—some grumble, others cheer, but everyone is in good spirits and having fun.

The State Attorney’s Office of the Republic of Croatia announced on Thursday that the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes, based in Washington, had rejected the lawsuit filed by Aaron Frenkel against the Republic of Croatia, which sought €225.1 million in compensation for the unrealized Golf Srđ project.

Dubrovnik Mayor Mato Franković presented the announcement from the State Attorney’s Office at an extraordinary press conference, stating that this ruling finally marks the end of the years-long legal dispute between the investor and the Republic of Croatia.

"All issues have been fully resolved. The only remaining matter is the concession for the Imperial Fortress area. You know that arbitration in Zagreb ruled in favor of the City of Dubrovnik. However, there are other legal options they can pursue. But we should soon take possession," he said.

He emphasized that this was a major victory for the City of Dubrovnik and the Republic of Croatia and a significant defeat for Aaron Frenkel and all those who, he said, had been warning for years that Croatian citizens would have to pay the compensation.