Starting January 1, 2025, Croatia will raise its bottle deposit refund from 7 to 10 cents, but environmental groups argue this still places the country at the bottom of the EU. Zelena Akcija (Green Action) criticized the low amount as insufficient to meet the EU target of 90% separate collection of beverage packaging by 2030, with Croatia currently below 80%.

The group also highlighted the adverse impact on vulnerable communities who rely on bottle collection. Despite calls for a minimum 15-cent deposit, the government rejected proposals, claiming higher deposits would increase retail prices.

Environmental advocates urge faster expansion of the deposit system to include all beverage containers and multilayer packaging by 2027, warning that the current timeline is too slow to address growing plastic pollution.

It’s well known that strong winds, particularly the northern bura wind, can wreak havoc on air traffic. The bura, a cold and powerful wind unique to the Adriatic region, is notorious for its sudden gusts that can reach hurricane force, challenging even the most skilled pilots.

This immense natural force was vividly captured in a video by a local resident, showing the dramatic "battle" between the bura and an aircraft attempting to land at Dubrovnik's Ruđer Bošković Airport yesterday.

At times, the plane appears like a "toy" being tossed around by the relentless gusts, while the pilot struggles to bring it under control and achieve a safe landing.

Dubrovnik Mayor Mato Franković lit the first candle on the Advent wreath in front of the Rector’s Palace last night, followed by the festive lighting on Stradun, officially marking the beginning of the 11th Dubrovnik Winter Festival.

"I hope you all enjoy this year’s festival program. We have a large number of performers, and I believe there will be something for everyone," said Mayor Franković during the opening ceremony.

The ceremony was preceded by a festive procession led by the Dubrovnik Majorettes, accompanied by the Dubrovnik City Brass Band and Santa Claus from Lapland, along with little Santas and elves from the Lazareti Dance Club. The evening was further enriched by musical performances from the Libertas Mixed Choir, Klapa from the Luka Sorkočević Art School, the Dubrovnik Children's Choir, and the Choir of the Parish of St. Cross in Gruž during the lighting of the Advent candle.

Following the opening, the stage on Stradun—arguably one of the most beautiful in the world—hosted a performance by music star Jelena Rozga. Over the next 37 days, until January 6, 2025, both residents and visitors of Dubrovnik can look forward to a diverse lineup of musical, entertainment, and culinary events.

The highlight of the festival will be the spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration featuring the legendary Italian musician Zucchero as the main act, joined by Croatian star Tony Cetinski.

The Croatian Chamber of Trades and Crafts (HOK) has applauded the government’s decision to raise the VAT registration threshold to €60,000, a move designed to lighten the load on small business owners.

“This tax relief will go a long way towards strengthening the operations and competitiveness of the smallest businesses—especially those under flat-rate taxation,” said HOK in a statement on Thursday. “It also paves the way for introducing a new flat-rate tax bracket.”

HOK President Dalibor Kratohvil welcomed the change, calling it a “positive step” that will benefit many tradespeople. “The government’s willingness to address the challenges facing the trade sector is encouraging. We will continue to push for further reforms through dialogue,” he said.

This policy change follows HOK’s sustained efforts to advocate for lower tax burdens. Just last week, the organization submitted nearly 100 proposals for economic relief to various authorities, with 61 directed at the Ministry of Finance. These included measures such as allowing part-time craft work to count towards pension contributions, permitting retirees to continue operating crafts, reducing sick leave liability for employers to 14 days, and introducing tax-free allowances for workers’ sports activities.

Finance Minister Marko Primorac confirmed the VAT threshold increase on Wednesday, describing it as a “step forward” for small businesses, particularly those in the early stages of growth. Speaking on HRT’s Central News, Primorac stressed the importance of balancing support for small businesses with the need to protect VAT as a critical revenue source.

“The threshold cannot be raised indefinitely,” Primorac warned, noting that VAT remains the country’s most significant tax revenue stream.

For many small business owners, however, the measure offers a much-needed reprieve. HOK believes this is just the beginning, pledging to continue pressing for reforms to make Croatia a more hospitable environment for its smallest economic players.

A rich musical, entertainment, gastronomic, and children's program awaits all visitors to Dubrovnik at this year's 11th Dubrovnik Winter Festival! From November 30th to January 6th, 2025, the entire city will shine in festive attire, officially kicking off this Saturday, November 30th, 2024, at 7 PM with the lighting of decorative holiday displays and thousands of lights. The grand opening will feature a concert by the popular Jelena Rozga.

Throughout the festival, a diverse entertainment program will take place weekly, offering an abundance of magical events. The youngest visitors will delight in Santa Claus's Christmas Fairy Tale from Lapland, organized by the Dubrovnik Tourist Board. Santa's cheerful helpers will assist him in arriving by snowy sleigh from Finland directly to the Rector’s Palace for gatherings starting at 3 PM during the first three days of this year’s festival.

On Saturday morning, thematic guided tours of the city in Croatian and English, also organized by the Dubrovnik Tourist Board, will begin. Free tours will depart from the TIC at Pile Gate at 9:30 AM (English) and 12:30 PM (Croatian). To make the Saturday morning unforgettable, folk performances by various groups will take place from 11:30 AM in front of St. Blaise's Church.

As part of the “Colorful Winter in Lapad Bay,” children will have the opportunity to become "Little Designers" starting at 10 AM by participating in a Christmas card-making workshop led by the Dubrovnik Audiovisual Center (Café Esperanza). At 11 AM, a puppet show, The Little Red Riding Hood’s Journey to Grandma, performed by Aster Dubrovnik, will take the stage near the fountain. At noon, the "North Pole" painting workshop by the Kantunić Art Studio will follow, and at 1 PM, the program concludes with the "Kite Festival for Children and Youth" by the Nimbus Aero Club on the Lapad Bay beach.

The City of Dubrovnik’s Department for Education, Sports, Social Welfare, and Civil Society, in collaboration with the “Colorful Winter” program, has also organized various activities for children and youth in the Parish of the Holy Saviour in Mokošica. Starting at 1:30 PM, children can make Christmas decorations from plaster, led by the parish’s Caritas organization. At 3:30 PM, a children's workshop titled "Glowing Christmas Cards" will be hosted by the Futura Association and the Dubrovnik Technical Culture Community. The puppet show The Little Red Riding Hood’s Journey to Grandma will perform again at 5 PM, followed by the opening program's highlight: a performance by the Holy Saviour Parish Choir at 6 PM in the square in front of the parish.

On Sunday, December 1st, the Christmas Fairy Tale with Santa Claus continues from 3 PM at the Rector’s Palace. At 4 PM, enjoy a free thematic guided tour, The Golden Age of Dubrovnik, led by staff and collaborators from the Marin Držić House, open to residents and visitors. The program wraps up with the play The Devil with Golden Hair, performed by Aster Dubrovnik at 5 PM in the Marin Držić Theater.

The festive spirit continues on Monday, December 2nd, with the Christmas Fairy Tale at 3 PM in the Rector’s Palace. At 6 PM, the Lapad branch of the Dubrovnik Libraries will host a storytelling and Christmas decoration workshop titled The Joy of Christmas, which includes letter writing.

On Tuesday, December 3rd, the "Little House" Kindergarten in Mokošica will host a parent-child workshop titled Christmas Bells and Decorations at 5 PM. Meanwhile, the Dubrovnik Libraries' City Library branch will present the children’s book The Nativity of St. Francis by Jelica Gjenero at 6 PM. At 8 PM, the band Dictators will perform on the stage near the Dubrovnik Student Center as part of the Advent on Vojnović program.

On Wednesday, December 4th, the Parish Hall of the Holy Saviour will host a workshop for first communicants at 5 PM, featuring Montessori-based catechesis, The Birth of Jesus and the Shepherds’ Offering.

On Thursday, December 5th, the “Our Children” Association will welcome St. Nicholas at noon in front of St. Blaise's Church. The Dubrovnik Chess Club will organize the Dubrovnik Advent Open Chess Tournament at the Valamar Lacroma Hotel, with matches at 4 PM and 8 PM. At 5 PM, the Dubrovnik Libraries will hold a storytelling session featuring Željka Horvat-Vukelja’s The Impatient Boot and a related craft workshop. That evening, the city will host a Humanitarian Fashion Ball at the Rixos Libertas Hotel to benefit the Maslina Home, starting at 7 PM. At 8 PM, the Kolarin Theater Troupe will perform the play Matrimonijo at the Marin Držić Theater.

On Friday, December 6th, children will enjoy the play Paws at the Marin Držić Theater at 11 AM. The third round of the Dubrovnik Advent Open Chess Tournament begins at 1 PM at the Valamar Lacroma Hotel, with the fourth round at 5 PM.

The ice rinks in Lapad and Mokošica open on Sunday, operating daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Adjustments may be made depending on weather conditions to ensure optimal safety. Due to technical issues, the Lapad Advent train will not run this weekend; updates will follow next week.

To facilitate access to festival events, the city administration has arranged free bus transportation on Libertas city lines in the afternoon and evening. Additionally, the price of the DU Pass, which grants entry to Dubrovnik's major attractions, has been reduced from €35 to just €15, including city wall access.

The City of Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik Tourist Board, and Dubrovnik Summer Festival, in collaboration with cultural institutions and public enterprises, have prepared a wide array of events for citizens and visitors of all ages. This year’s 11th Dubrovnik Winter Festival awaits you in all its splendor!

More information about events is available on the Dubrovnik Winter Festival’s website, social media channels, and the Dubrovnik Event Calendar.

The project is supported by Dubrovnik Airport, the Lokrum Reserve, Adriatic Luxury Hotels, and Coca-Cola.

Navigating the world of sports betting in Croatia can be exciting, but hidden fees can quickly turn a profitable experience into a costly one. Knowing the best payment management practices can help bettors avoid these unexpected charges. Understanding the various payment options, such as e-wallets and bank transfers, is crucial for optimising one’s betting strategy.

Betting sites often have different policies regarding deposits and withdrawals. Players should know transaction fees and currency conversion rates, which can significantly impact the overall betting budget. By researching each platform's payment methods and reading reviews, bettors can find the most cost-effective choices for online betting in Croatia.

Staying informed about the latest regulations and promotions is also vital. Tracking changes in payment practices can lead to better decision-making and enhanced chances of success in sports betting markets. This article will explore tips to help bettors make smart financial choices and enjoy a more rewarding betting experience.

Understanding the Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in Croatia

Croatia has a well-defined legal framework for sports betting, which regulates how betting operates in the country. Key entities like the Ministry of Finance oversee these regulations to protect players and maintain fair practices.

Gambling Laws and Regulations

The Games of Chance Act (Zakon o igrama na sreću) is the primary legislation governing sports betting in Croatia. This law outlines the rules for all forms of gambling, including sports betting.

Operators must obtain government licenses to offer betting services. These licenses ensure that the operators meet specific standards of fairness and security. The act also details the processes for monitoring compliance and enforcing regulations.

Punishments for violations can include fines or the revocation of licenses, which aims to maintain a safe betting environment for players. Players must verify that a betting site is licensed to avoid illegal operators.

The Role of the Ministry of Finance

The Ministry of Finance is crucial in regulating gambling activities in Croatia. It is responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing operators' compliance with existing laws.

They also monitor market activities to prevent illegal gambling practices. This oversight is essential for protecting consumers and ensuring operators conduct business fairly. Additionally, the ministry sets guidelines for responsible gambling to minimise potential harm to players.

Public reports and transparency measures are part of the ministry's mission, helping keep players and operators informed about the current legal requirements.

Legal Gambling Age and Consumer Protection

In Croatia, the legal gambling age is set at 18 years. This regulation helps to protect younger individuals from the potential harms of gambling.

Operators are required to implement age verification processes to ensure compliance with this law. Failure to prevent underage gambling can lead to severe penalties for operators.

Consumer protection is also a focus, with regulations to ensure fair play and the security of players' funds. Players should always choose licensed operators to guarantee their rights and access to legal remedies if issues arise.

Choosing the Best Betting Sites in Croatia

Selecting the right betting site in Croatia involves considering various essential features, payment methods, and promotional offers. These factors help ensure a smooth betting experience and maximise potential winnings.

Essential Features of Top Bookmakers

The best betting sites in Croatia share common features that enhance user experience. These include a user-friendly interface, a wide range of sports and events to bet on, and competitive odds.

Reliable customer support is crucial. Players should look for sites offering live chat, email, and phone support. Security is another critical factor. Trustworthy bookmakers will use encryption to protect personal and financial information.

Moreover, mobile compatibility is vital for bettors who prefer using their smartphones. Top bookmakers often provide dedicated apps or mobile-friendly websites for easy access.

Comparing Payment Options for Convenience

When choosing a betting site, players must evaluate available payment methods. Popular payment options in Croatia include credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets. Each method has unique advantages in terms of speed and convenience.

E-wallets like Skrill and Neteller are preferred for quick deposits and withdrawals and can be found at reputable operators like JeffBet. They provide enhanced security and often come with lower fees. On the other hand, bank transfers may take longer but are useful for larger transactions.

Checking if the site accepts payments in Croatian kuna is essential. This can simplify the transaction process and minimise conversion fees.

Promotions and Betting Bonuses for Croatian Punters

Promotions and betting bonuses significantly enhance the overall betting experience. The best betting sites in Croatia offer various bonuses to attract new players and retain existing ones.

Welcome bonuses are common and can provide a substantial first deposit boost. However, players should always read the terms and conditions to understand the wagering requirements.

Reload bonuses are another great incentive for returning players. These can provide additional funds on subsequent deposits. Some sites may also offer seasonal promotions or free bet opportunities to keep punters engaged.

By comparing these promotional offers, bettors can maximise their betting potential and enjoy better returns.

Maximising Betting Experiences

Enhancing the sports betting experience involves utilising live betting options, exploring diverse markets, and embracing the newer avenues of esports and virtual sports. Each aspect plays a crucial role in making informed and engaging betting decisions.

Live Betting and Streaming: Staying Engaged

Live betting allows players to place bets during a game, adapting to the unfolding action. Sportsbooks offer real-time odds so that bettors can capitalise on favourable moments.

With live streaming, bettors can watch events directly through their betting platform. This feature enhances engagement by providing immediate feedback on bets placed.

Benefits of Live Betting:

• Real-time odds adjustment
• Increased interaction with sports events
• Opportunity for strategic decision-making

By utilising these features, bettors can enhance their enjoyment and make more informed choices.

Diverse Betting Markets and Competitive Odds

Sports betting in Croatia offers a range of markets beyond typical match outcomes. Bettors can explore various options, such as player performance and specific game events.

Competitive odds draw bettors, as even small differences can impact potential payouts significantly. Bettors need to shopp around for the best odds across different sportsbooks.

Key Betting Markets:

• Match Winner
• Total Points Scored
• Head-to-Head Player Bets

Understanding these diverse options can help bettors maximise profits and enjoy a richer betting experience.

The Emergence of Esports and Virtual Sports Betting

The esports market has expanded rapidly, attracting a new demographic of bettors. Games like League of Legends and Dota 2 offer unique opportunities for engaging bets.

Virtual sports represent another innovative betting avenue. Bettors experience simulated games and outcomes, providing constant betting options.

Features of Esports and Virtual Sports:

• Accessibility 24/7
• Variety of game formats
• Rapid result turnover

These developments allow bettors to diversify their strategies and enjoy continuous action in their betting experiences.

Safe and Efficient Payment Methods

Choosing safe and efficient payment methods is crucial when engaging in sports betting. Various options are available, each with unique benefits. Understanding these methods helps bettors navigate potential costs and ensure quick and secure transactions.

Navigating E-Wallets: Skrill, Neteller, and More

E-wallets like Skrill and Neteller offer a secure way to manage funds for sports betting. They provide fast deposits and withdrawals, making them popular choices. These services often include advanced security features, like two-factor authentication.

An e-wallet can also help bettors avoid sharing personal bank information directly with betting sites. Many sportsbooks accept e-wallets, providing a seamless betting experience.

E-wallets typically process payments quickly, often completing transactions within hours. Bettors should be aware of any fees associated with these services, but the convenience often outweighs the costs.

Credit/Debit Cards and Bank Transfers: Traditional Options

Credit and debit cards remain traditional methods for funding sports betting accounts. Cards from major providers like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted and offer robust security features. Many users appreciate the simplicity of using cards for deposits.

Bank transfers are another option, providing direct movement of funds. While they are generally safe, transfers can take longer to process, and payouts may also be slower compared to e-wallets.

Bettors should be mindful of any hidden fees their banks or the betting site may charge. Confirming transaction times and fees before committing to these payment methods is essential.

The Rise of Cryptocurrencies in Online Betting

Cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly popular in online betting. Coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum provide a high level of security and anonymity. Transactions are processed on a decentralised network, significantly reducing the risk of fraud.

Using cryptocurrencies for betting offers fast payouts and lower transaction fees than traditional methods. Many betting sites now accept these digital currencies, appealing to tech-savvy bettors.

Additionally, some platforms may offer bonuses for using cryptocurrencies, making them an attractive choice. Understanding the specific cryptocurrency policies of each sportsbook can guide bettors toward effective and secure betting methods.

According to the eVisitor system data, 2,750 guests spent the last weekend in Dubrovnik, an increase of eight percent compared to the same period last year.

The most numerous visitors to the city were from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Germany, Belgium, and Albania.

Since the beginning of the year, Dubrovnik has recorded 1.329 million arrivals and 4.214 million overnight stays, a ten percent improvement compared to the same period in 2023.

Members of the European Parliament yesterday approved the new composition of the European Commission with a majority vote. Ursula von der Leyen, serving her second term as president, will officially assume her duties on Sunday, December 1.

In the new Commission, the Mediterranean portfolio will be taken over by Croatia’s representative, Dubravka Šuica, a Dubrovnik native.

The Commission received fewer votes than Ursula von der Leyen herself, who garnered 401 votes in July when the European Parliament elected her as the new head of the Commission.

Five years ago, in July 2019, von der Leyen secured only 383 votes—just nine more than the absolute majority required—but her first Commission enjoyed the support of 461 MEPs. This was significantly more than today, despite the fact that the previous Parliament had fewer members (705) compared to the current 720.