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
Boat parties have become one of the most attractive and fun activities in Croatia. If you love parties, meeting new people, and nature, Boat Party Dubrovnik is a must. Enjoy music, sea, and fun — whether with friends, a partner, or solo.
Dance to summer beats as the sun sets over stunning coastal views. You will not regret it. Party on the Waves is all you need to experience Dubrovnik like never!
Boat Party Dubrovnik is much more than just fun; it is a complete experience that allows you to enjoy the sea uniquely and excitingly. Here's what makes these holidays so special:
If there is time, we suggest you start your visit to the city outside the walls of the historic center. Specifically at the Fortress of St. Lawrence (Lovrijenac). One of the must-see attractions in Dubrovnik. Although, in reality the most important thing about the Fortress of San Lorenzo is the views from its top over the walled city.
Passing the immense walls that surround and protect the historic center through the Pile Gate is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik.
This arch was the main entrance to the Dubrovnik Republic, which stayed independent through diplomacy and wealth from its merchant fleet. It leads to a Renaissance gate with a tower topped by a statue of St. Blaise.
Upon entering, you'll find Onofrio's Fountain, a key symbol of Dubrovnik. Just a few meters from the fountain, next to the Church of the Holy Savior, there is a climb to the imposing walls 2 kilometers long and almost 25 meters high that protected ancient Ragusa (the historic core of Dubrovnik) from enemy attacks.
During the walk along the top of the walls, the entire tour lasts about 2 hours, you will pass by various strategically placed towers and fortresses, although the best, without a doubt, are the views of the red terracotta roofs of the old town from which the various bell towers stand out, and in the background the blue of the Adriatic.
A boat party is a great opportunity to have fun, but it pays to be prepared. Here are some helpful tips:
Additional advice:
It was a night to remember at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu. Real Madrid’s maestro Luka Modrić scored one of the goals of the season in a thrilling La Liga clash against Girona – but the real magic happened after the final whistle.
A young Croatian footballer from Gorica FC was in the stands, watching her hero in action. And as if witnessing Modrić’s wonder strike wasn’t enough, what happened next left her in absolute disbelief.
In a heartwarming moment caught on camera and shared by Everything Croatia, Modrić spotted a Croatian flag waving proudly in the packed stadium. Without hesitation, the 39-year-old legend made his way towards the ecstatic young fan and handed her his match-worn shirt. The sheer joy on her face said it all – a dream come true, a memory to last a lifetime.
Once again, Modrić proves he’s not just a magician with the ball at his feet, but also a true gentleman of the game. Bravo, Luka!
Check out the video here
It’s been a bumpy ride for the Port of Ploče! Luka Ploče d.d. just released its 2024 business report, revealing a year filled with challenges—but also some bright spots.
The company raked in €100 million in revenue, but a massive 17% drop in cargo traffic hit hard, thanks to disastrous floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The railway shutdown meant cargo had to be trucked instead, leading to a staggering 35% drop in port traffic in the final quarter of 2024. As if that wasn’t enough, long-time partner ArcelorMittal Zenica shut down its plant, shaking up the entire supply chain.
Still, there’s good news! Sales skyrocketed by 71%, driven by booming demand for steel sheets and rebar. And with railway transport back on track, CEO Hrvoje Livaja is optimistic: “Transport flows have normalized, and we’re moving forward stronger than ever!”
With plans for modernization and new investments, the Port of Ploče is ready to bounce back—bigger and better!
The introduction of the special traffic zone, initially scheduled for March 1, 2025, has been postponed. This was announced during a meeting yesterday between Mayor Mato Franković, his deputy Jelka Tepšić, and representatives of tourist agencies.
The delay is attributed to a recent accident on the main road, leading to the implementation of a more lenient version of the planned traffic regulations, though details on the specific adjustments were not provided. The new measures will be more flexible and less restrictive than originally planned until the issues with the main road and the landslide repairs on Srđ, which only began after the tragic accident that claimed a young life, are resolved. However, no deadline has been set for how long these temporary measures will remain in effect.
A Swiss company is expected to arrive in early March to install protective barriers on Srđ, which will further complicate traffic on the main road. As a result, traffic will occasionally be diverted through Zagrebačka Street and Petra Krešimira IV Street, making these two roads crucial exit routes from the city towards Župa. Given these circumstances, introducing a special traffic zone at this time is not feasible.
The "Masked Concert" has been an essential part of the Dubrovnik Carnival for years. Once again, the quirky, colorful, and masked orchestra—along with its conductor and soloists—is ready to entertain a masked audience at the concert on March 1st at the Marin Držić Theatre. The concert starts at 7:30 PM.
The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra will be conducted by maestro Ivan Hut, with performances by mezzo-soprano Laura Hladilo Kocković, vocalist Sebastijan Vukosavić, clarinetist Teo Čipčić, cellist Vanda Đanić, and percussionist Alan Polzer—who will be playing a typewriter!
The concert is organized in collaboration with the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, Marin Držić Theatre, the Dubrovnik Tourist Board, and the City of Dubrovnik.
Admission is free with pre-collected tickets from the KMD box office and a mandatory mask.
On Monday, a telephone session of the Government of the Republic of Croatia was held. During the session, a regulation was adopted to determine the maximum retail prices of petroleum products. According to this regulation, the maximum retail prices are calculated based on the base price of fossil fuel over the previous 14-day period, with a capped premium of €0.1545/l for diesel and gasoline, €0.0781/l for blue diesel, and €0.8429/kg for propane-butane mixtures in bottles, or €0.4116/kg for large tanks.
The regulation will take effect on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, and this pricing model will apply for the next 14-day period. The new prices will be:
Government of the Republic of Croatia
Without government measures, and if retail prices were fully market-driven based on energy sector premiums before the first regulation, the prices would be:
The Dubrovnik Tourist Board is organizing a charity concert featuring renowned singer Hari Rončević, set to take place on March 8, 2025, at 8:00 PM at the Marin Držić Theatre.
This special musical event will be an opportunity to enjoy unforgettable hits and emotional performances while supporting a charitable cause. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Dva Skaline association, which assists children with developmental difficulties.
Tickets, priced at €20, are available at the Marin Držić Theatre box office and online via ulaznice.hr.
"We invite all residents and visitors of Dubrovnik to join this unique concert and support a noble cause through the music of one of Croatia's most beloved artists," stated the Dubrovnik Tourist Board.
In honor of International Women's Day, the City of Dubrovnik is proudly announcing the first Dubrovnik Women Summit, a unique event that brings together female entrepreneurs, creative leaders, and inspirational speakers. The event will be held on March 7, 2025, at Lazareti, with doors opening at 9:00 AM, and entry is free.
The official opening of the Dubrovnik Women Summit will be led by the Mayor of Dubrovnik, Mato Franković, highlighting the importance of empowering women and sustainable development in business and society. Under the slogan "Inspire. Innovate. Sustain.", the main theme of the summit will be "Sustainable Future: Transformation through Growth, Innovation, and Sustainability." Through dynamic panels, discussions, and an interactive space, participants will explore ways in which different sectors can contribute to sustainability, how innovations can improve business practices, and how sustainable practices bring economic and social benefits.
The main panel will feature prominent leaders from various sectors, who will share insights on sustainability and innovation through their experiences and knowledge. Jelka Tepšić, Deputy Mayor of Dubrovnik, will discuss sustainable tourism, how Dubrovnik has become a model for tourism management, and how the "Respect the City" initiative balances tourism development with the preservation of the local community. Magda Milas, an expert in financial technology and blockchain, will share insights into the role of blockchain technology in tourism, how cryptocurrencies can reduce costs in hospitality, and whether blockchain can improve transparency and track sustainable initiatives in tourism. Ana Lisak, an entrepreneur and recipient of the HRIO award for implementing sustainable practices, will discuss the issue of food waste in the hospitality industry, how small restaurants and hotels can implement sustainable practices, and whether sustainable business can bring economic benefits.
One of the key elements of the Dubrovnik Women Summit will be the interactive space, also open to all participants. Here, Dubrovnik's entrepreneurs, creative innovators, and local brands will have the opportunity to connect, exchange experiences, and showcase their businesses. This dynamic zone will be a place for inspiration, collaboration, and the promotion of ideas that are changing the future. Visitors will be able to get makeup, try natural cosmetics, sample local delicacies, or explore original souvenirs and artwork.