tip Travel magazine Croatia 023 (English edition) 06-08/2018

EN

tipTravel

ISSN: 1849-059X

www.tipTravelMagazine.com

CROATIA

Travel and tourism magazine

Number 23 • Year VI • June - August 2018

INFORMATION • RECOMMENDATIONS • EXPERIENCES

Issue topic:

Dubrovnik and Neretva County

Lastovo Island Beauty sleeping under the stars World: Turkey

City break:

Cappadocia Varaždin

Experience Croatia:

Kvarner

Mljet Island Plitvice Valleys Šibenik

Brela • Vodice • National Parks: Krka and Brijuni • Plitvice Lakes Zagreb • Požega-Slavonia County • Bjelovar-Bilogora County

UNESCO:

Klapa singing

tipTravel CROATIA

HRVATSKA

KROATIEN

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ABOUT THE MAGAZINE

INTERACTIVE FEATURES Along with the active links in textual form, which lead to certain websites, the magazine also contains active links marked with icons, and by clicking on them, you can open: - additional websites - various social networks - blogs - YouTube video content - Google locations - 360° virtual tours - live cameras that transmit videos of the destination in real time - an online shopping basket

tipTravel magazine is the first Croatian online travel and tourism magazine, which is exclusively in digital format and available to all readers free of charge. It has been issued in Croatian and English since July 2013, and in German as of 2015.

It is designed for readers in Croatia and abroad who are avid travelers.

In each issue, through original reports and photos, it introduces readers to Croatian coastal and continental destinations and their diverse and rich tourist offer, it reveals the less known facts, brings tourism news, announcements of events and festivals that shouldn't be missed, and first-hand advice and recommendations.

The second part of the magazine is dedicated to presenting global destinations and their travel offer.

More information can be found at www.tiptravelmagazine.com, where you can also find a direct link to all the issues. The magazine can be read online on all computers, tablets, and smartphone devices via the Issuu.com website or application.

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NEWSLETTER

EDITORIAL

tipTravel www.tipTravelMagazine.com

CROATIA

Travel and tourism magazine

Travel and tourism magazine June - August 2018 ISSN: 1849-059X Publisher: Tip Kreativa d.o.o.

Jordanovac 119, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia +385 1 2348488 +385 91 7958016 info@tiptravelmagazine.com www.tiptravelmagazine.com www.facebook.com/tiptravelmagazine VAT ID Number: HR21136573248 © Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

Erste&Steiermärkische Bank d.d.

SWIFT: ESBCHR22 IBAN: HR4524020061100663844 Editor in Chief: Željka Kunštek zeljka@tiptravelmagazine.com Graphic Editor: Robert Kunštek robert@tiptravelmagazine.com DTP: Tip Kreativa d.o.o.

The return of summer W e don't know about you, but to us it seems as if time since last summer and the publication of the summer issue of the magazine has flown by so quickly that it is as if it were the day before yesterday. Truly, a lot can happen in a year, both privately and at work. Since summer of 2017, our wonderful year was mostly marked by the arrival of our baby. Life and our priorities have greatly changed, but one thing has remained the same - the passion for travelling that we would now like to share with our little explorer. We have already headed out on that adventure - starting with Croatia because, as you will surely agree, before getting to know other cultures and customs, it's good to know your own country first. So, some of the destinations we present you in this issue were his first destinations, and there are many others on our "must-visit" list, which we can't wait to take him to.

We start off summer with an article on Lastovo, a faraway mystical island in southern Croatia, which sleeps under the starriest sky you can imagine. This summer, head over to enchanting beauty and indescribable peace of

what is likely the last preserved corner of the Mediterranean as it once was.

Summer is also the right time to enjoy the many benefits of Kvarner (a region in the northeastern Adriatic), and for relaxing next to the bubbling waterfalls, incredible lakes, and exotic scenery in national parks. It is also a delightful experience to enjoy yourself at attractive events, which Croatia is full of in the summer, under starry skies, and the warmest season is also perfect for cycling and releasing some adrenaline with some water sports. Those who prefer a different vacation can explore the charming continental parts of Croatia with their flavors, colors, and aromas that are at their peak in the summer. When you have had enough of the daily grind, head over to a fantasy world - to Cappadocia, a region in Turkey famous for its enchanting landscape full of fairy chimneys, elaborate underground cities, and mystical churches.

Designing your greatest vacation is all up to you, and we hope we have helped you at least a little bit with our recommendations :) Željka and Robert Kunštek

Associates in this issue: Mirela Drkulec Miletić, Petra Škofić, Vlatka Vužić, Martina Dragojević Trcol Translator: Marija Crnogaj Marketing: marketing@tiptravelmagazine.com Photo source: tipTravel magazine archive, archives of Croatian Tourist Boards, PHOTOnet.hr, fotolia Cover page photo: Lučica on the Lastovo Island © Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

Transmission of texts, in full or in part, is only permitted with the written approval of the publisher and author.

Any type of mechanical, optical, or electronic copying is forbidden.

All rights are reserved. Texts and photographs are sent in electronic form. The opinion of the author of the text is not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. The publisher cannot guarantee the permanence of published information, and is not responsible for the content of advertisements.

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Travel and tourism magazine

Content

June - August 2018 © Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

CROATIA

© Frank Heuer/laif / Kvarner Region Tourist Board

tipTravel www.tipTravelMagazine.com

© Rade Jug / Rakovica Tourist Board

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8-9 NEWS - Croatia 10-33 ISSUE TOPIC - Dubrovnik and Neretva County: Lastovo Island - Beauty sleeping under the stars 34-37 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Mljet Island: Relaxation on the mystical green isle 38 INTERESTING FACTS Croatia 39 Atlas: Just for hedonists 40-41 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Brela: A dream vacation 42 EXPLORE CROATIA Biokovo Nature Park: In the heart of the mountain

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43 EVENTS - Solin: Romance in Salona 44-47 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Šibenik-Knin County: Active in the heart of the Adriatic 48-49 BEAUTIES OF CROATIA Krka National Park: Krka - a source of endless inspiration 50-51 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Vodice: Vodice's lively summer 52 EXCURSION - Zrmanja River 53 Olympia Vodice: Head out on excursions with Olympia

70-73

54-55 EXCURSION - Brijuni National Park: Tour Brijuni in style 56-65 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Kvarner: All the benefits of Kvarner 66 TIPS4YOU 67 Jadran Crikvenica: For successful congresses 68-69 BIKE TOURISM - Plitvice Lakes: Cycling around Plitvice Lakes 70-73 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Plitvice Valleys: In the idyllic Plitvice Valleys 74-75 EVENTS - Zagreb: Zagreb's summer beat

76 Pedicab: Pedicab through Zagreb 77 Hotel Dubrovnik: Business and pleasure in the heart of Zagreb 78-79 HISTORICAL TRACES Zagreb: The Zagreb Zoo 80 EVENTS - Zagreb County: The fun side of the green ring 81 EVENTS - Samobor: Two reasons to visit 82-84 CITY BREAK - Varaždin: A city for strolling

not a single tree has been destroyed in publishing this magazine

© Martina Dragojević Trcol

96-107 © fotolia

© Požega-Slavonia County Tourist Board

86-87 © Miljenko Hegedić / City Tourist Association Varaždin

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Environmentally Friendly

© Delimir Hrestak / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

The option to show photos in fullscreen view is available to users of the tipTravel magazine iOS Newsstand application on iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch devices.

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85 Hotel Turist: Your host in Varaždin 86-87 CULTURAL TOURISM Bjelovar-Bilogora County: The cultural gem of continental Croatia 88-89 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Požega-Slavonia County: Slavonia's golden trails

96-107 WORLD - Cappadocia: A land of beautiful horses and fairy chimneys 108-109 WORLD ATTRACTIONS Bangkok (Thailand) 110 WORLD ATTRACTIONS Samarkand (Uzbekistan)

90-91 UNESCO - Klapa singing 92-93 CULTURAL SCENE Interview - Tony Cetinski: Living a dream in Istria 94-95 NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS World

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News

CROATIA

Croatia in the top 10 countries in the world for unconventional trips

© Air Canada Rouge

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

© Korean Air / Media Val

© PHOTOnet.hr

As a tourist destination, Croatia strongly attracts American travelers looking for luxurious trips planned in detail. That is the result of an analysis in the family travel segment based on current and forecasted reservations conducted by Virtuoso, an American network of travel agencies for luxury travel. Experts at Virtuoso placed Croatia in the top 10 countries in the world in the category of unconventional family destinations that offer authentic experiences. Only one more European country made the list in that category alongside Croatia, Iceland.

Fly directly from Zagreb to Toronto and Athens Along with the two direct flights weekly between Zagreb and Toronto offered by Canadian airline company Air Transat for the past two years, as of this year, Air Canada Rouge, the daughter company of the Canadian national airline company Air Canada, will be flying the same line. Air Canada Rouge offers four direct flights weekly, from June 3 to October 7, 2018. During the summer flight schedule, Zagreb is also connected with Athens three times per week, and those flights are conducted by Aegean Airlines, the largest Greek airline company.

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As of this year, the Split Airport is connected with new flights from Volotea Airlines with Nice, Palermo, and Bergamo, while Thomas Cook connects it with flights to London, Bristol, and Glasgow, as well as Düsseldorf and Hannover. So, this year, Split will be connected to the rest of Europe with nearly 90 direct flights. In May, the Brač Airport was connected for the first time with an Adria Airways line from Ljubljana, and as of summer, the island will be able to be reached for the first time with a direct flight from Bern, which will be conducted by Skyworks. Luxembourg will also be connected with Brač once per week, while TUI is also boosting all its lines to Brač, which includes flights from Brussels, Rotterdam, and Deauville. At the height of the season, another two flights from Italy to Brač are expected.

© Korean Air / Media Val

© Air Canada Rouge

Reach Split and Brač by air with ease

Zagreb and Seoul connected with direct flights from September As of September of this year, Korean Air, the largest airline company in South Korea, will connect the capital of South Korea, Seoul, and the Croatian capital, Zagreb, to the end of the summer and during the winter flight schedule. The Seoul-Zagreb line will be a direct line in the summer schedule, while in the winter schedule it will fly via Zurich on the return trip.

During September and October, flights will be on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and tickets for the line will soon be available for purchase.

A 1.2 billion euro investment in Croatian hotels

© CNTB

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

© Aleksandar Gospić / CNTB

© Hotel Olympia Sky, Vodice

Over the next five years, Croatia is expecting a record-breaking 1.2 billion euro investment in hotels, of which 90 percent of the funds will be invested in hotels at the sea and on the coast, mostly in high-category buildings - according to research by the Ernst&Young company for revision and consultation. The investment will affect 12 Croatian counties, where the Split-Dalmatia and Istria counties stand out for the number and value of the projects there, followed by the Opatija, Zagreb, and Dubrovnik area. Of the total number of investments, 60 percent is allotted for completely new hotels, while 40 percent is for renovating existing hotels. A total of 42 percent of investments will be conducted by Asian hoteliers and investors.

Epic Week in Croatia On its Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram social networks, the Croatian National Tourist Board launched the third part of their "Epic Week in Croatia" campaign.

Fans have been offered 218 activities to create their ideal summer holiday in 2018, and a contest has been offered with the main prize that includes an unforgettable trip to Croatia. It is a campaign that encourages fans and potential tourists to create their dream vacation that they can spend in Croatia.

"Imota" region tourist board established

Hvar to host the 2018 Days of Croatian Tourism

In April of this year, the SplitDalmatia County got another tourist board, "Imota", which covers the Imotski area. The goals of this tourist board are, amongst others, increasing the number of tourists and overnight stays in the Imotski area, especially in the pre-season and post-season, creating new tourist facilities, and promoting the area as a tourist destination with high-quality diverse products. This year, the Imota Tourist Board has focused its finances on many programs and activities, such as the continued exploration of the Red Lake, making biking and hiking trails, and the like.

The city of Hvar on the island of the same name, which is celebrating the 150th anniversary of its tradition in tourism this year, will be the host of this year's Days of Croatian Tourism, the annual gathering of those working in the field of Croatian tourism that traditionally brings together more than a thousand participants every year in October.

This year's program also brings many educational lectures, workshops, and round tables with leading Croatian and international experts in tourism, and the highlight will be the handing out of awards and recognitions to the best in campaigns by the Croatian National Tourist Board, and the Croatian Chamber of Economy.

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Issue topic

DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

Isl

Š St an jep a To d o f n T ur La afr ist st a Bo ovo ar d

For thousands of years, the island of Lastovo has stood the test of time far out at sea, surrounded by the crystal clear waters where the white sails of sailboats glide, covered in dense green forests, illuminated by the sun during the day, and at night by the lights of old stone lighthouses and the starriest sky you can imagine. There, far away from the crowds and mass tourism, far away from noise, and at times, far away from electricity and internet, you will find peace and quiet that is disturbed only by the call of seagulls and the songs of crickets. On that island, trapped in timeless beauty, you will find the last preserved corner of the Mediterranean as it truly once was.

The town of Lastovo in the evening, under a starry sky.

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LASTOVO ISLAND Dubrovnik and Neretva County

CROATIA

Beauty sleeping under the stars Text: Željka Kunštek Photos: "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution, Island of Lastovo Tourist Board, PHOTOnet.hr

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Issue topic

DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

"L a Na stov Š A n tu o re Ar te G Pa ch u rk ipe gić In " P la st u go itu bl tio ic n

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hat island paradise in south of Croatia used its solitude and distance from land and its influence to its advantage, and today it is one of the most biologically preserved areas in the Mediterranean. The island of Lastovo with its surrounding archipelago, together known as the Lastovo Islands, boasts the status of being Croatia's youngest park, and the southernmost inhabited island in Croatia. Only about 800 people live there. And it is special for many reasons. That is the only place where you can see imaginatively decorated fumari (chimneys) and experience the bubbly energy of the Lastovo carnival, which is one of a kind. There you will hear as many legends as there are people on the island, see the seabed fifty meters under the surface while you swim in the crystal clear sea, stroll through the stone towns where time stopped long ago, enjoy sticky figs and freshly caught fish, sleep under bright starry skies...

There is a reason the slogan for that faraway island is the "Island of Bright Stars". See why for yourself.

tipTravelMagazine June - August 2018

How to reach Lastovo?

Lastovo can be reached all year long by catamaran or ferry from Split. As of May 1st of this year, Lastovo is also connected to Dubrovnik twice a week by catamaran. Of course, the island can always be reached by boat, whether it is your own or rented.

Nature Park Lastovo Islands - Islands beneath the stars

Š The "Sunce" Association

A view of Skrivena Luka, located on the southern side of Lastovo Island.

The WWF declared the area of the Lastovo Islands Nature Park one of the last ten treasures of biodiversity in the Mediterranean Sea.

Find an interactive map of Lastovo, with marked attractions and useful information here:

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Issue topic

DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

Use the time it takes to get to Lastovo to enjoy views of the islands and coves you pass by, and make sure to check the memory on your camera, because as you get closer to Lastovo, you will need it more and more.

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

Travelling into adventure

Some people believe that at the archeological site at the Ancient Christian basilica of St. Peter's in the settlement of Ubli, 12 gold statues of the apostles are buried.

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

The sunset in Ubli; The ruins of the Ancient Christian basilica of St. Peters in Ubli; Pasadur; Sailboats anchored in Zaklopatica Bay; Zaklopatica Bay.

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I believe that with our introductory text we have already intrigued many to come to Lastovo, or at least those who are pickier, who look for holidays harmonized with untouched nature, far from the crowds and noise of tourist destinations.

Lastovo was well described by a renowned international travel magazine: "It's hard to find a better place for digital detox". However, in order to reach Lastovo, take some time because getting there is an adventure of its own. Lastovo is connected to the mainland via catamaran and ferry lines all year long, and while the catamaran trip takes about three hours, the ferry can take up to 5.5 hours, depending on which one you take.

That also includes stopping at nearby islands.

The catamaran or ferry will bring you to Ubli on the southwestern part of the island, one of the five island settlements. Besides being known as a ferry terminal, Ubli is also famous for the ruins of the 6th century Ancient Christian basilica of St. Peter. The settlement closest to Ubli is Pasadur on the western side of the island. It is connected to the islet of Prežba with a small bridge, and it is home to the only hotel on the island. Many sailboats and yachts drop anchor in Pasadur, especially in the evening hours, since it is a safe cove, protected from all winds, so it is a favorite spot amongst sailors. Zaklopatica Bay, on the north side of the island, which offers a view of the island of Korčula and the Lastovo Channel, also has a great location and has a lot to offer sailors.

Skrivena Luka (Portorosso) on the southern side of the island is also loved by sailors. Just as its name (Hidden harbor) says, it is hidden from strong winds and the open sea, and it is one of the largest and most beautiful coves on the island. Its view is enhanced by the Struga lighthouse, located on the very point of the cove.

A protected fishing village

A path leads from the town of Lastovo to Lučica through an evergreen forest, and the pleasant walk takes about 10 minutes.

Lučica is picturesque and photogenic from all sides - from land and sea, as well as from the sky.

© Andrija Carli / PHOTOnet.hr

© Boris Kragić / PHOTOnet.hr

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

Another fishing village, located right by the sea, is Lučica, located less than a kilometer from the center of the island, Lastovo, to which it belongs administratively. The wonderful narrow cove is one of the last preserved examples of Baroque fishing villages in that part of Dalmatia and is protected as a part of cultural heritage of the Republic of Croatia.

Since the early 17th century, the people of Lastovo have built stone fishermen's houses there to protect them from storms, to store and dry fishing tools, to salt fish, and store boats. Today, all forms of construction have been banned there, while the existing houses are renovated only in the spirit of authentic Mediterranean architecture. The cove offers a view of the island of Korčula, and only smaller boats can enter it.

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In 2005, the town of Lastovo was protected by the Croatian Ministry of Culture as a cultural and historical entity due to its unique renaissance architecture and amphitheater-style of construction. There are several sites of protected cultural heritage in the town - churches, houses, fortresses, and the site where the Lastovo Carnival is held.

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© Municipality of Lastovo / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

Issue topic

More than 700 years ago, way back in 1310, the "Lastovo Statute", a book that clearly describes the work and social relations between the island settlements was signed in Lastovo. In honor of the 700th anniversary of the signing of the Lastovo Statute, in 2010, the Croatian Post issued a commemoratory stamp with the motif of the official stamp of Lastovo in the Dubrovnik Republic, which depicts Saints Cosmas and Damian, the protector saints of Lastovo, and the stamp also shows a cartographic depiction of the island.

The town of Lastovo was built in the shape of an amphitheater; The parish church of Saints Cosmas and Damian; The Rector's palace; The loggia; Donkeys assist the island's inhabitants.

Lastovo's stone stairs The largest, main, and one and only island settlement that isn't located next to the sea, but in the interior, in the very heart of the island, is Lastovo, which is how the entire island got its name. It is a medieval settlement, in the shape of an amphitheater, located on steep slopes, surrounded by hills, and facing fertile fields. With reason. In the past, frequent attacks by pirates from the sea encouraged the people of Lastovo to build a settlement in the interior, where they could easily prepare their defense, but also provide a way to monitor the situation at sea from the tops of the hills. Later, in the 18th century, when attacks were much rarer, the people of Lastovo started heading down to the coast and building the other settlements.

When you walk on Lastovo's skalinade (stone stairs), pass by old stone houses (the prettiest and the oldest ones date back to the 15th century), and rest on one of the sulars (terraces surrounded by stone benches and vases), you will feel as if you are in some historical movie. You won't be far from reality because time truly has stopped in Lastovo. You will also pass by stone churches, of which the largest is the parish church of Saints Cosmas and Damian, with a loggia, where important decisions were made in the past, and while there, you might see an older woman from Lastovo leading a loaded donkey. If you look up to the top of the settlement, you will see the houses of the wealthier inhabitants of the island, and there you will also see the Rector's palace (Palac). After the former rector's residence was demolished in the 19th century, the neo-renaissance palace of the Grbin family (today Fantela) was built in its place. The palace is open to the public, and it houses a valuable inventory - wooden furniture and original wall and ceiling frescoes. Above the settlement, on the Glavica hill, stands the old Kaťćel, a fortress that currently houses a weather station. Climb up to the top, and you will have Lastovo in the palm of your hand. At first, the view will remind you of typical places in southern Italy, and then you will see the fumari on closely placed stone houses... and see the difference.

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DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

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Fumari of various heights and shapes are a feature of Lastovo.

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Fumari as a source of eternal inspiration A great source of pride for the people of Lastovo and one of the best-known symbols of the island are fumari - decorated chimneys built in a special manner. In the past, the people of Lastovo built them with the goal of showing the wealth of the owner of the house, so the wealthier they were, the taller, more ornate, and more unusual their fumari were. During construction, attention was also given to the functionality of the fumari. Even today, neighbors continue to compete in building those original chimneys, so no two chimneys in Lastovo are alike. Don't even try to find them, because you won't succeed. Instead, try to find the oldest fumar, surrounded nowadays by wild oranges, which adorns the house of the Antica - Biza family. Find some of the fumari that are decorated with the shapes of animal horns that have the task of casting spells with evil eyes, or making fun of neighbors. Some will say Lastovo's fumari, the creative creations of local masters, remind them of minarets, while others will say that they are a copy of the fumari from the coastal villages in the Puglia region in Italy. Others will say that they are reminiscent of the decorations that adorn the roofs of some famous masterpieces of the famous Antonio Gaudi... Find out for yourself whether it is a coincidence or not, and what is actually true.

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There are 46 churches on the island of Lastovo; The church of St. Luke is the oldest on the island; St. Elijah's church; A valuable collection of old artifacts at St. John's church at the Rector's Palace in Lastovo.

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© Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

The Lastovo Islands include 46 islands, islets, skerries, and reefs, 46 fields, and 46 churches, 21 of which are protected as cultural heritage.

With a light stroll down the old and rejuvenated trails, you can tour all the old stone gems scattered throughout Lastovo's fields and settlements. Head down the Chapel Trail and choose at least one of two routes that take you on a tour of the churches and votive chapels that the people of Lastovo built long ago in honor of their protector saints. Stop by the church of St. Luke, the oldest on the island.

It was built in the 11th century next to an old trail that connects the two largest inhabited places on the island, Lastovo and Ubli. It is also the oldest church on the island where religious ceremonies are still conducted.

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The Chapel Trail

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In 2008, one of the oldest carnivals in the world, the Lastovo Carnival, was protected and declared intangible cultural heritage of the Republic of Croatia.

tipTravelMagazine June - August 2018

© Andrija Carli / PHOTOnet.hr

© Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

© Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

© Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

Lowering the Poklad doll down the Pokladareva grža hill; All generations of people from Lastovo participate in the Lastovo Carnival.

© Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

© Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

Issue topic

The Lastovo Carnival There is a custom, deeply woven into the tradition of the people of Lastovo, which makes the island one of a kind - the Lastovo Carnival. Every year, starting on January 17, the feast day of St. Anthony, all the way to Ash Wednesday, it awakens sleepy Lastovo, which during that time transforms from an island of peace and quiet to a noisy, fun, and colorful stage, which is what it should be during the carnival. At that time, the bubbly energy of the carnival, "pokladars" in costume, the slightly archaic sounds of the lira that echo through the stone streets and squares, and the energetic dancing of the "pokladars" (who must be born on Lastovo) with wooden sabers, evoke the collective memory of the locals of the turbulent past and they reenact the events from long ago in 1483. Back then the Catalans, (the Moors) attacked the neighboring island of Korčula and defeated Korčula's defenders, and then sent a messenger to Lastovo who was supposed to convince the people of Lastovo to surrender. However, they didn't surrender, and the Catalans sent battleships to the island. As soon as the fleet arrived, a horrible storm started and sunk the fleet. The island was saved, and the people of Lastovo placed the Catalan messenger on a donkey, took him through the town while making fun of him, lowered him from the top of the hill by rope, and finally lit him on fire on the main town square, Dolac. Nowadays, Poklad, a straw doll, guilty for all evil things, takes the place of the Catalan messenger. The doll undergoes the embarrassing descent from the top of the hill called Pokladareva grža by rope three times, accompanied by exploding hand-made "bombs" and smoke, and people calling "Uvo!", to the delight of those gathered, and finally, he ends up ablaze.

The great local carnival celebration has remained nearly unchanged, according to a ritual that is centuries old, and has been held for 535 years, and nearly all the inhabitants of the island avidly participate in it. The fact that during the main carnival event, on Shrove Tuesday, children do not attend school, and adults do not work, or work shorter days, shows how important the carnival is to the people of Lastovo.

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"L a Na stov © A n tu o re Ar te G Pa ch u rk ipe gić In " P la st u go itu bl tio ic n

Issue topic

DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

Rosemary; A Mediterranean gull; Rača cave; A yelkouan shearwater.

A natural empire The gentle Mediterranean climate, called the olive climate, that graces Lastovo all year long, and the average of 2700 hours of sun per year that make Lastovo one of the sunniest islands in the Adriatic, are reason enough to spend most of your time on the island outdoors. Breathe in the fresh sea air that is enriched with the aromas of various Mediterranean plants that cover the island.

Lastovo primarily smells of pine trees and sweet immortelle, and depending on the time of year when you visit it, you will also feel the scent of sage, mint, rosemary, lavender, fennel, and chamomile. The island is also full of olive trees and grapevines, which the people of Lastovo have been growing since the beginning of time, and nearly every vegetable that is planted on the fertile fields there grows in abundance. Next to houses on Lastovo, you will see almond, lemon, orange, and carob trees, but you won't see walnut trees anywhere. In the past, people on

Lastovo didn't plant them due to the belief that witches gather under walnut trees.

Lastovo is also home to more than 20 types of orchids, and many endemic and endangered plant types. Perhaps you won't be able to recognize them all, but you will definitely notice and hear the many kinds of birds - from the Mediterranean gull to the rare Eleonora's falcon. The island is also a favorite place to rest for migratory birds - and you can admire them from the tallest peak on the island, Hum (417 m). In the evening hours, it is also easy to see the playful flight of bats that have chosen Lastovo's many caves for their homes. The most famous one is Rača in the southeastern part of the island, which is protected as geomorphological natural monument and archeological site. Legend has it that fairies used to live there. Whether you will see them there now is hard to say, but you will definitely see impressive stalactites and stalagmites in its halls. The oldest evidence of human life on the island that dates back to the early stone age was found in the cave. It is 70 m long, and relatively spacious, and is the only cave on the island that isn't steep, so it is easy to explore. Three endangered species of bats have found their home in the second most popular cave on the island - Medjedina, where the Mediterranean monk seal used to live. Some islanders have seen the seals at sea from time to time, which gives hope that they will return.

Lastovo is one of the sunniest parts of the Adriatic and the greenest island in the Adriatic, after the neighboring island of Mljet, which is 70 percent covered in dense green forests. However, don't worry, there aren't any venomous snakes on the island so you can explore it to your heart's content.

On the islet of Zaklopatica, near the bay of the same name, a rare species of bird, the yelkouan shearwater (Puffinus yelkouan), whose song has been compared to a crying baby, has found its home.

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DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

Lastovo's majestic underwater world attracts divers; Fishermen's nets are always full; A seahorse; Exploring underwater caves.

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© Diving club Geronimo / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

© Diving club Geronimo / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

© Diving club Geronimo / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

Lastovo has one of the top ten most attractive diving locations in Europe - Pt. Bijelac with an underwater passage through the island.

Other attractive diving locations include Tajan islet with an underwater cave, and Pt. Struga with incredible gorgonians.

© Miljenko Marukić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

© B. Dmitrović / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

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46 islands - 46 experiences Those who dive into the waters of Lastovo will see magnificent scenes - protected fields, plenty of archeological sites, caves and hidden passages, sunken galleons full of amphoras, many corals, sponges, crabs, mollusks, snails, and an abundance of fish. Anything can be caught in the waters of Lastovo - according to the local fishermen who are happiest when they see a lobster in their nets. Those people, who spend most of their days and nights in the open sea, have the privilege of regularly seeing dolphins. Three kinds of dolphins live in the waters surrounding Lastovo, and besides the fishermen, they are also often seen by sailors for whom Lastovo with its rugged archipelago is a true treat.

As inaccessible as it is from land, that is how attractive Lastovo's coast is from the sea.

The only way you can have the privilege to reach the hidden, wonderful beaches and coves, and visit the other islets of the rugged archipelago, which include the Lastovnjaci and Vrhovnjaci islands, also part of the Nature Park (where the sea accounts for 70 percent of the area), is by boat, sailboat, or yacht. There are a total of 46 islands, islets, skerries, and reefs, and each offers a special experience.

Every summer, Lastovo's attractive coves are occupied by the huge yachts of international

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution © Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution © Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

jet-setters, Hollywood's elite, aristocrats, and royal families... Not even they can resist swimming in Lastovo's crystal clear coves.

If you don't have your own boat, you can rent one and head out to that island paradise.

Some will gather the courage to head to the island of Sušac, which has many coves on its southeastern side. Of the formerly two hundred inhabitants of the island, today, only one is left - the lighthouse keeper who takes care of the Sušac lighthouse that shows sailors the way in dark nights. From time to time, a shepherd comes to the other part of the island to visit his flock. In the summer months, up to ten people can be on the island. Those are the people who cannot resist the beauty, peace, silence, mystique, and challenges life at a lighthouse offers. The remains of two churches can also be found on the island, and the ruins of houses, and neglected olive groves and fields bear witness to life as it once was. On Sušac, nature also formed a lagoon that can be reached from the sea, by diving through a cave, so divers are commonly-seen visitors there.

Those who do not have a sailing license, and would love to explore the charms of Lastovo's archipelago, can head out on an organized fish picnic to the islet of Mladine that is home to the only sandy beach, and one of the prettiest beaches on Lastovo - Saplun. The sand is only

found in the sea, and the quantity of it depends on the winds that blow in the winter. A local sailor also organizes excursions to the distant and mystical Palagruža, the most distant Croatian island, and from Lastovo, you can also take an excursion to its bigger neighbors the islands of Korčula and Mljet.

There are also many beaches and coves that can be reached from land. Lastovo's beaches are wild, pebble, stone, and rocky, many are covered in dense pine trees that offer shade in the hot summer days, and every one of them is splashed by the crystal clear sea. Do not expect to see cocktail bars and loud music, lounge chairs, and beach umbrellas typical for beaches in developed tourist destinations, along with those selling popcorn, corn, doughnuts, fruit, and drinks. Bring along whatever you would like to eat or drink there, and before you leave make sure to pick up all the packaging and garbage in order to protect that gem of untouched nature and preserve it for future generations. Besides the already mentioned beaches and bays (Skrivena Luka, Saplun, Lučica), there are a few more worth visiting: Dragovoda, Pod Mrčaru, Korita, Mihajla (with a café bar and nearby beach volleyball court), while for families with children, Skrivena Luka, Kručica, Zace, Jurjeva Luka, and the hotel beach on the islet of Prežba in the Pasadur settlement are ideal.

The island of Sušac is home to one of Lastovo's four lighthouses; Kremena Bay; The islet of Crnac; Zace Bay with fishermen's houses; In the summer, Mihajla Bay is the stage for the "Lastovo - Music Island" music festival.

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After the Second World War, and during the Homeland War, the army was based on Lastovo, which the military buildings at several locations on the island bear witness to.

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DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

The Struga lighthouse; The lighthouse on the legendary islet of Glavat; The Sušac lighthouse.

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Find accommodations in Lastovo at the only hotel on the island, in the camp, at the lighthouse, in vacation homes, or in rooms and suites from private renters. Those who seek Robinson-style vacations can find accommodations to suit their needs on Lastovo.

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Staying at a lighthouse Those who sail through Lastovo's archipelago will see the valuable heritage of 19th century lighthouses. The four magnificent lighthouses - the already mentioned Sušac, little Tajan, legendary Glavat, and photogenic Struga - are guardians of the sea that surrounds Lastovo and a guiding light for sailors in starry nights, and a sign of hope in storms. For centuries, they have stood the test of time, and there are even legends tied to some of them. The most famous is the one about Glavat, according to which the Greek God Zeus sent an envoy to find the most beautiful island in the world so that the discussion at Olympus about whether it was Lastovo, Mljet, or Korčula would stop.

Glavat looked at the islands for a long time, but he couldn't make up his mind. The gods turned him into stone for his indecisiveness - the present-day islet of Glavat, the easternmost island in Lastovo's archipelago.

The lighthouse keeper's building on Glavat is one of the largest in the Croatian part of the Adriatic, and the light that comes from it dominates the entire archipelago.

Glavat's underwater world attracts divers with its many caves. Of the four caves, two are used for tourism, and there you can rent a suite and experience the charms of living at a lighthouse first hand. Besides visiting Sušac, you can also stay at beautiful Struga, one of the oldest lighthouses in the Adriatic. It is located in Skrivena Luka, on a steep cliff that offers a view of the open sea, and of freedom.

The waters surrounding Struga are full of corals and gorgonians that are just waiting to be admired.

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DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

"L a Na stov © A n tu o re Ar te G Pa ch u rk ipe gić In " P la st u go itu bl tio ic n

Park employees organize park tours by sea that will reveal the natural and cultural attractions of the island and introduce you to the lifestyle of the people of Lastovo. If you would like to explore the island on your own, head over to the educational "From present to the past" trail that unites the best of Lastovo, and it will take you through forests, fields, vineyards, olive groves, and the town of Lastovo.

A view of the western Lastovo islands; Zaklopatica Bay; Exploring the island by kayak; A view of Veji vrh from Kašćel.

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Views for the soul

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Lastovo can also be explored by pedal boat or kayak, which are perfect for gliding into a cove you might just have to yourself. If you are more drawn to the idea of exploring the island on land, there are more than 200 km of walking and biking trails, marked with signs. Some are paved, others pass through forests, but all of them are attractive and will reveal incredible landscapes and views. Head over to the island's viewpoints, where you will see Lastovo, its coves, and archipelago in the palm of your hand. Not a single camera can resist them. From the Hum viewpoint (417 m), the highest in the island, you will enjoy the view of the northern part of the island and the town of Lastovo. Sozanj will offer you a view of Zaklopatica Bay and the Lastovnjaci islands, and Pokladareva grža of the town of Lastovo. That viewpoint is also the main location of the most important event on the island, the Lastovo Carnival, since that is where the Poklad is lowered from by rope. From the viewpoint next to the rustic church of St. Cyprian you will admire the view of Skrivena Luka bay and the Struga lighthouse. According to legend, treasure was once buried under the altar of that church, and foreigners found it and took it away.

If you climb up to Kašćel, you will see the Lučica and Mihalja bays, the Lastovo channel, and Korčula. The view from the Galičine viewpoint is especially attractive. There you will see the eastern and western islands of Lastovo, Skrivena Luka, the islands of Mljet and Korčula, and the Pelješac peninsula, and when the weather is nice, you can see all the way to Palagruža and the Italian coast. Galičine also has the perfect location for another activity that has attracted many to Lastovo over the past couple of years watching the night sky above Lastovo.

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DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

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The sky above Lastovo is a stage for millions of bright stars and the Milky Way.

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The island of bright stars

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Did you know that Lastovo has the second darkest and the prettiest starry sky in Europe? If you look at the sky above that island at sea on a clear night, besides seeing millions of bright stars, you can also see a foggy white trail - the Milky Way, which includes a total of 219 million stars! In order to see other galaxies, all you need is an ordinary telescope. In 2008, Slovenian astrophotographers Mikuz Herman and Andrej Mohar confirmed that the starry sky above Lastovo is the prettiest in Europe.

In order to preserve the sky above their island and save it from light pollution, the locals replaced all public lighting on the

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island with environmentally friendly lighting with 0 percent emissions towards the sky, so that the light beams of the new lamps are only aimed at the ground. Far from the coastline, light pollution, and every other form of pollution, Lastovo has become a favorite place for astronomers, and all those who would like to enjoy the priceless view of a starry sky. The island has already hosted the international camp of dark skies, and it has great potential for becoming the European park of starry skies, or the European astronomy camp.

© Stjepan Tafra / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

With a taste of the past

© Vanja Jurica / Konoba Fumari, Lastovo

© Vanja Jurica / Konoba Fumari, Lastovo

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine © Vanja Jurica / Konoba Fumari, Lastovo

Sooner or later, you will sit down at a table on Lastovo. The traditional island dishes are logically connected to the sea and the fruits and vegetables from Lastovo's fertile fields, where they are, far away from land and any pollution, grown in organic conditions. So there you will find fresh and juicy ingredients from the island, full of aromas and flavors, on the plates at taverns and family farms.

The kinds of fruits and vegetables you remember from your childhood, when you spent the summer with your grandparents.

In the wide range of traditional island meals, grilled sardines and chickpeas with salted sardines, dishes that are still regularly found on the tables of Lastovo's working class and fishermen, take first place. That is followed by conger brodetto and grilled Mediterranean moray, all accompanied by precious drops of olive oil. Once they step away from the seafood story, the people of Lastovo treat their taste buds to peka (meals prepared under the bell) made with chicken, goat, and lamb, and round off their culinary story with a glass of Lastovo wine, most often Maraština (Rukatac) and Plavac mali. For dessert, the table in Lastovo often includes - skalice (kroštule), fritule, kotonjata (quince jelly) and arancine (sugared oranges) along with lemon or carob spirits.

You can take part of Lastovo home with you when you leave the island, in the form of jams, spirits, and liqueurs, enriched with the aromas of carob, roses, and aromatic wild herbs from the island. Don't leave the island of Lastovo without purchasing the unique "Moja si" cream, made of St. John's wort, homemade olive oil, and beeswax, which is enriched with the aroma of roses. Its medicinal powers last for at least two years, and it has many uses. It helps heal wounds, scars, stretch marks, acne, strained muscles and nerves, back pain, depression, etc.

Seafood dishes are the basis for Lastovo's gastronomy; Preparing dishes under the peka (bell); "Moja si" cream; Olives; Snails a la Lastovo in tomato and red wine sauce, and pie made with local apples in the Fumari tavern in Lastovo.

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DUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Lastovo Island

© Klapa Ladesta / Island of Lastovo Tourist Board

Issue topic

Festivals, regattas, concerts...

The Park Regatta; A performance by the Lastovo folk dance group in front of the Sts. Cosmas and Damian parish church; Klapa Ladesta; A male klapa in the loggia; Lastovo folk dance group in front of one of the fumari; Sailboats after the regatta, anchored in Pasadur; Lastovo Trail.

© Ante Gugić / "Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park" Public Institution

The people of Lastovo are keepers of culture and tradition, which is something you will see for yourself at some events.

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© Reagata dei Parchi

Although Lastovo isn't a tourist mecca that buzzes with many events, it isn't so sleepy that it doesn't offer at least a few of them, all of them carefully chosen and prepared.

As part of the Summer of Culture (June October), you will enjoy klapa and folklore evenings, homemade delicacies, and an offer of souvenirs. LUZ - Lastovo under the stars (June 22-25), an event inspired by ecology and designed for all generations, will entertain you with a musical program, educational workshops, an outdoor movie theater, watching the starry sky... Summer is also reserved for the music festival, Lastovo Music Island, which gathers many performers, lasts four days, and is held in Mihajla Bay. The Vieste Lastovo Park Regatta (June 1-3), an international sailing competition that starts in Gargano National Park in Italy, and finishes in Lastovo Islands Nature Park, is especially attractive. Besides promoting sailing as a sport, the regatta connects the natural beauty of Croatia and Italy and encourages

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the collaboration and socialization of those who love the sea in those two Adriatic regions. There is also the Lastovo Trail run (July 14), which places two challenges in front of runners - two categories of trails, "Little fumar" and "Big fumar". Both trails run through centuries-old olive groves and vineyards, drop down to the sea, and pass by Lastovo's churches, with the aim of reaching Mihajla Bay. Every year, a big island festival is held on the Day of the Municipality (September 26), when Lastovo celebrates its heavenly protectors, Saints Cosmas and Damian. On that day, amongst other things, an international cross race is held in two categories (children and adults), and the trail passes through the town of Lastovo and the surrounding fields.

As time passes, Lastovo successfully resists the test of time, and carefully continues to preserve its incredible nature and attractive wildlife, slowly moving towards eco-tourism.

Out there, far away, on its own, it waits for you. Answer its call. But only if you are also ready to preserve that beauty. 

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MLJET ISLAND

© Unimedia / "Mljet National Park" Public Institution

© Unimedia / "Mljet National Park" Public Institution

© Antun Cerovečki / "Mljet National Park" Public Institution

Experience Croatia

Relaxation on the mystical green isle Text: Mirela Drkulec Miletić Photos: Mljet Tourist Board, "Mljet National Park" Public Institution

Covered in dense pine forests and immersed in the clear emerald sea, the island of Mljet offers a holiday far from daily life in peace and the inspirational beautiful nature that also charmed Odyssey.

Mljet is the greenest Adriatic island; Odyssey's cave.

Visit Odyssey's cave where the nymph Calypso seduced that Greek hero. Head to the cave in calmer weather, when boats can sail into it.

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I

n the far south of Croatia, there is another pearl of natural and cultural heritage - the island of Mljet. It is covered in dense forests of evergreen (holly) oak and Aleppo pine, due to which it has earned the flattering title of

the greenest Adriatic island. With its lush Mediterranean vegetation, clean and clear sea, and exotic sandy coves, it has attracted tourists for ages. The locals will proudly tell you that their mystical island was also visited by Odyssey, the Greek

© www.Yacht-Rent.com / Mljet Tourist Board © Boris PetarJović Lupić/ Mljet / TZ grada Tourist Raba Board

© Unimedia / Mljet Tourist Board

Experience-filled Mljet summer Due to the unique beauty of its landscape and the natural phenomenon of Veliko and Malo jezero, the northwestern part of the island was proclaimed a national park in 1960.

It spreads over 54 square kilometers, and includes part of the sea with many reefs, cliffs, and isles. You can discover the park by canoe, by bike, and on foot.

All without worrying about poisonous snakes, which have been eradicated on the island thanks to mongooses.

At Mljet National Park, a lot of attention is given to environmental protection and sustainable development, so in early summer, the first of a total of three electrical boats will arrive at the park to take the visitors around while

© Boris Jović / Mljet Tourist Board

© Osvin Pećar / "Mljet National Park" Public Institution

hero, the gorgeous Illyrian Queen Teuta enjoyed its aromas, and St. Paul found refuge there after a shipwreck.

Mljet is also an island with a unique natural phenomenon of two karst saltlakes, Veliko and Malo jezero (Great and Small Lake). People deepened the natural strait by building the Soline channel that connects the lakes to the sea, so you can swim through it and feel the joy of swimming in Mljet's crystal clear waters. At Veliko jezero, your attention will be attracted by the picturesque isle of St. Marija (Mary) with the 12th century Benedictine monastery, one of the most photographed motifs and symbols of Mljet. Make sure to visit the settlement of Polače with the ruins of Roman summer homes, as well as the Illyrian fortifications and medieval churches.

The sandy Saplunara beach is one of the prettiest beaches on the island; Mljet is also a favorite destination for sailors; The isle of St. Marija on Veliko jezero; Mljet's flora is lush and diverse; Soline channel.

affecting the environment as little as possible. The electrification of public transportation in the park has continued (with the help of funding from the European Union), and buying an electrical bus and the construction of another charging station for electrical cars are also planned. A volunteer program is conducted on Mljet every year before the season, with the aim of preserving Mljet's greatest piece of heritage - nature.

Mljet's tradition can best be seen at the "Hidden Corners of Mljet" ethnogastro festival, which is held in old island villages. If you visit the village of Babino Polje on June 26, Blato on June 29, Korita on August 15, and Goveđari on December 6, you will experience and feel the sounds, flavors, aromas, music, and spirit of

There is a strong sea current running through the channels of the Veliko and Malo jezero, which change direction every six hours due to high and low tides. In the Middle Ages, people used that force to power mills.

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© Sanja Grcić Curić, Foto Hrvatska / Mljet Tourist Board

Mljet's underwater world; Preparing Mljet's delicacies; Octopus roasted under the bell and local wines are a winning The people of combination; Mljet are guardians of tradition; A photography exhibition.

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© Thomas Schedina, Momentas / Mljet Tourist Board

Eco Art Festival will also be held as a part of the summer of culture. Deepen your knowledge of ecology and release your creativity, while mastering the skill of making souvenirs and jewelry using driftwood and other environmentally friendly material at interactive creative workshops under the guidance of fashion designer Milena Ulić. Fans of good movies will be thrilled by movie screenings outdoors during the Festival of Mediterranean Film in the town of Goveđari, which will be held from July 27 to 29, and from August 10 to 12.

If you visit Mljet during the summer, which we warmly recommend, you will also enjoy the sounds of klapa music, as well as the rhythms at the In Da Sofa Festival. 

© Sanja Grcić Curić, Foto Hrvatska / Mljet Tourist Board

times past in that island. You will also enjoy tasting delicacies from Mljet such as Mljet makaruli with goat cheese, old-fashioned pandišanj cake, arancini, and delicacies made with olives. You will be entertained by the sounds of klapa music, see folk costumes from Mljet, and enjoy folk dances and songs. You can also participate at an interactive workshop, see an exhibition of old photographs and crafts, and see how Mljet's vrša and košice (fish nets and baskets), and embroidery, especially Mljet embroidery.

You can also enjoy authentic products from Mljet, wines from the Pelješac peninsula, and an exciting culinary show at the "Toast from the Host" food and wine festival, which will be held in Pomena on July 15 and August 19. The

© Vido Bagur / Mljet Tourist Board

Mljet's underwater world delighted the best expert of the deep seas, Jacques Cousteau. Find out what it hides at the "Iznik - Ottoman Pottery from the depths of the Adriatic" exhibition, which displays valuable archeological material recovered from a cargo ship that sunk near Mljet in the 16th century.

© Sanja Grcić Curić, Foto Hrvatska / Mljet Tourist Board

MLJET ISLAND

© Antonio Rossetti / The "Sunce" Association / "Mljet National Park" Public Institution

Experience Croatia

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"Mljet National Park" Public Institution Pristanište 2, 20226 Goveđari - Mljet Croatia,  +385 20 744041 np-mljet@np-mljet.hr

www.np-mljet.hr

Mljet Tourist Board Zabrježe 2, 20225 Babino Polje, Croatia  +385 20 746025, tz.mljet@du.t-com.hr

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Interesting facts

CROATIA

© CNTB

CNTB video named the best promotional video in 2017 © Croatia Airlines

In a short period of time, the "Ambassadors of Croatian Tourism" promotional video made by the Croatian National Tourist Board, in which famous Croatian athletes and artists participated, achieved several million views in foreign emitive markets, according to a decision by the professional American panel representing Citizine Networks and the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB). The video won the prestigious "Travel Video Awards" in the category of "Best Video by a Tourism Organization".

Besides being recognized by the professional panel, the video was also well received by the general public who voted the video the best promotional video for tourism in 2017. The formal awards ceremony was held in the center of Las Vegas.

Spend your summer holidays in Croatia This summer, take advantage of Croatia Airlines' many seasonal flights and fly from numerous European cities to Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Pula, Zadar, Rijeka, Osijek, or Bol (on the island of Brač), where you can enjoy wonderful Croatian beaches, the crystal clear blue Adriatic Sea, nature, culture, people, cuisine, and much more. Check Croatia Airlines flight offers at www.croatiaairlines.com and m.croatiaairlines.com or call the Contact center at +385 1 6676 555.

The Love Stories Museum opened in Dubrovnik One of the most romantic destinations in the world became home to the first museum in the world dedicated to love and romance. The Love Stories Museum opened in mid-May 2018 in Dubrovnik, with the aim of collecting and presenting unique love stories and items of great sentimental value from the entire world. The museum also presents love stories from old Dubrovnik, and a special part is dedicated to love from the movies and shows filmed in Dubrovnik, such as Game of Thrones, Robin Hood, and Star Wars. Music also has its own room, with special love stories and inspiration, and the museum also has a kid's corner. Visitors to the museum have the possibility of sharing their own love story, or donating an interesting item that could end up as part of the global collection of love stories. The museum is open daily during the season from 9 AM to 10 PM. Source:

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© Love Stories Museum, Dubrovnik

© Love Stories Museum, Dubrovnik

© Croatia Airlines

www.croatiaweek.com

PROMO

Just for hedonists T

his summer, indulge yourself and board one of the beauties in Atlas' fleet, one of which is the luxurious 48-meter-long Arca, currently the shiniest star on the Adriatic. Its comfortable cabins are furnished according to the latest international standards, and the impressive spread of food, based on delicious Dalmatian dishes, will satisfy even the most refined palate. Arca heads out on its maritime

adventure from Split or Dubrovnik, and its routes include the most beautiful gems in Dalmatia including the islands of Korčula, Hvar, Brač, and Mljet, and tours of many attractions from Atlas' wide range of offered excursions. Cruises include airport transfers, a Captain's Dinner, breakfast and lunch, and a cruise director available to fulfil guest's desires.

You can't buy happiness, but you can buy an Adriatic Cruise and that's pretty close. 

Find out more information on the routes and departure dates at www.atlas-croatia.com

Atlas, Dr. Ante Starčevića 45, 20000 Dubrovnik, ID: HR-AB-20-060000638

Create your perfect Adriatic holiday

ions

Excurs

Adriatic Cruise

atlas-croatia.com

Accomm

odation

info@atlas-croatia.com June - August 2018

+385 1 241 5611

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BRELA

© Studio Blagec / Brela Tourist Board

Experience Croatia

A dream vacation Create priceless memories on the enchanting beaches in Brela, next to the turquoise sea and in the shade of magnificent Biokovo.

Podrače Beach; The view of Brela from Biokovo; In Brela, relaxing on its beaches is a must; The Brela Stone can also be explored from a kayak.

Enjoy the heavenly beaches of Brela, head down the French Road, explore the underwater world, row a kayak, and have a great time.

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it has been named the most beautiful beach in Europe. The crystal clear sea, gentle white pebbles, the aroma of lush pine forests, and impressive cliffs that rise above the sea deservingly attract the attention of the world.

Near the beach, in the sea, stands the recognizable symbol of the area, the Brela Stone, with picturesque pine trees, formerly the favorite place for monk seals to rest. The coast is also full of enchantingly beautiful intimate beaches with various facilities, and amongst them is the charming Podrače Bay, which the European Parliament awarded the epithet of the most beautiful in Europe.

Brela's beaches will delight the youngest visitors who will find fun at the water park and on the trampoline, and there

© Ljudevit Blagec / Brela Tourist Board

Text: Petra Škofić Photos: Brela Tourist Board

hen only the best epithets are written about a small central Dalmatian town by the renowned journalists at the American magazine Forbes and The Huffington Post website, then you know that it is a destination you truly must visit. Gently tucked in between the turquoise sea and the mighty Biokovo Mountain, Brela is an oasis for all those who, first and foremost, want to spend their vacation in irresistible natural beauty.

That picturesque gem of the Makarska Riviera is most famous for its six and a half kilometers of pebble beaches, of which Punta Rata is best known. Forbes placed it on its list of top ten most beautiful beaches in the world, and according to the European Best Destinations website,

© Studio Blagec / Brela Tourist Board

The French Road; The Path of Vitality; Beautiful sunsets are a feature of Brela; An outdoor gym; Brela's seabed is home to a lot of beautiful things; Both recreational and professional cyclists will find trails to suit their tastes in Brela.

Brela Tourist Board Trg A. Stepinca b.b., 21322 Brela, Croatia  +385 21 618455, info@brela.hr

www.brela.hr

© Studio Blagec / Brela Tourist Board

you at the bottom of the sea. Enroll in a diving school and explore the underwater treasures. Get to know Brela by bike - ride down the trail that is the first leg of the international Tour of Croatia cycling race. Besides luxury hotels and private accommodations, along with superb restaurants with an abundant offer of local and international dishes, expect a lot of events in Brela. The Summer Theater on Punta Rata Beach (July 13 and 20, and August 3 and 17), the Šakan Festival (August 10-11) with famous names from the Croatian and international music scene, and many concerts are reason more to head to Brela and spend a holiday there that will forever remain imbedded in your memory. 

© Studio Blagec / Brela Tourist Board

© Studio Blagec / Brela Tourist Board

are also free water polo classes and a program with animators for children and adults. On the beaches, you can also rent a pedal boat, motor boat, or a water scooter, and explore Brela from the sea, and those looking for an adrenaline rush can try parasailing.

A holiday in Brela guarantees a holiday filled with activities. Besides walking down the seaside Path of Vitality, walk down the new educational trail, the French Road. That incredibly valuable dry stone road was built in the early 19th century, during the time of the French reign in that area. It is accompanied by interpretative boards with information on how and why it was built, and the entire road is a viewpoint that offers an unforgettable view of Brela, the Makarska Riviera and the surrounding islands. You can pick one of the more demanding forest trails through the nearby Biokovo Nature Park, and fans of outdoor activities in the fresh air will be delighted with the outdoor gyms alongside the entire length of the trail. To experience Brela in an original way, head out on a kayak ride, and many adventures also await

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© Ivo Pervan / "Biokovo Nature Park" Public Institution

© Slavo Jakša / "Biokovo Nature Park" Public Institution

BIOKOVO NATURE PARK © Ivo Pervan / "Biokovo Nature Park" Public Institution

Explore Croatia

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In the heart of the mountain biokovo

Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: "Biokovo Nature Park" Public Institution Park prirode • Nature Park

Park prirode • Nature Park

Enhance your holiday at the heavenly Makarska Riviera by going to Biokovo, and before you head out, find out more about the mountain at the "Adrion - heart of the mountain" center.

The view of the Makarska Riviera from Biokovo; Biokovo's land­scape; A shepherd's hut; "Adrion - heart of the mountain" center.

L © Stipe Srzić / "Biokovo Nature Park" Public Institution

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ike a guardian, the slopes of the 150% x impressive Biokovo Mountain rise above the Makarska Riviera, a travel paradise in central Dalmatia known for its heavenly white beaches and crystal clear sea that splashes them. True holiday enjoyment is experienced by those who enrich their stay Park at the Riviera prirode • Nature Park by visiting Biokovo, home to the second highest peak in Croatia, St. George (1762 m), where a church bearing the same name stands at the highest you get to know more about the rich altitude in Croatia. Alongside numerous flora and fauna of the mountain, which hiking trails, a 23 km long road, the is also home to endemic species, it will highest paved road in Croatia, also leads be clear why the mountain has been to it. It is truly worth the effort to head proclaimed a nature park. up to the top, where a reward awaits If the summer heat gets to you and you one of the most beautiful panoramas become too lazy to climb up it, you that you can imagine - of the Riviera and can feel the mountain vibe and find 200% x it at the "Adrion - heart the surrounding islands immersed in the out more about blue sea, and the view will stretch all the of the mountain" multimedia center, way to Italy, located 250 km away. Stop located at part of the City Sports Center at the base of the mountain, where there in Makarska. Tour its halls and get to are boulders that are more than 220 know Biokovo interactively. Make sure million years old. There, you will also find to visit the small hall, which acts as a Biokovo's Botanical Garden, Kotišina, full Biokovo cave, and try to simulate an of karst phenomena - sinkholes, cracks, earthquake while there. After you tour caves, and pits, the deepest one bearing the center, you will very like decide to the name Mokre noge (-839 m),prirode which• Nature Park hike on one of the trails of the mighty, Park is the fourth deepest in Croatia. Once beautiful mountain. 

biokovo

Park prirode • Nature Park

"Biokovo Nature Park" Public Institution Franjevački put 2A 21300 Makarska, Croatia  +385 21 616924 info@pp-biokovo.hr

minimalna dimenzija = x 23 × 19 mm

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Did you know that Biokovo is the tallest mountain closest to the 23 coast in the Mediterranean? The mountain is also homeminimalna to many dimenzija = x archeological artifacts, shepherd's 23 × 19 mm huts, churches, and chapels, 87 of which can be found there.

biokovo

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Za znak-logot dimenzijama o progresivno p 500% x, 600%

SOLIN

Romance in Salona

Text: Željka Kunštek Photos: Solin Tourist Board

For a total of three times this summer, Solin will take you back to the time of ancient Salona, gladiator fights, ancient weddings and crafts, and delicious specialties emperors used to enjoy. will mark the beginning of the event with a gladiator fight in the amphitheater, accompanied by a fire show, which will be attended by Emperor Diocletian and Empress Priska. Parts of the "Antigona" show and an ancient craft fair will additionally intrigue you that evening.

Be guests at an Ancient wedding (July 21), at the Tusculum Salona building and enjoy pleasant music and delicious food in the sign of ancient times, and while there, discover the secrets to how they beautified brides in those ancient times.

Who knows, perhaps some of you who haven't yet taken the plunge will want such a unique wedding for yourselves and the ones you love, which will be possible to organize in Solin, starting in 2019. The third ancient night, "Ancient nights next to the Jadro" (August 12), brings a fair of ancient crafts to the very heart of Solin. Discover the secrets to the blacksmith and basket weaving trades, find out how togas and ancient souvenirs are made, buy a few beauty products, and enjoy ancient delicacies, while the music of mandolins and guitars soothes your soul. Admission to all three evenings of the event is free, and on the first and second nights, there is also a free tour of the city of Salona, along with bus transportation from the promenade in nearby Split to Solin and back. 

A gladiator fight; A fire show; Girls dressed in clothes inspired by ancient times; The fair of ancient crafts.

© Solin Tourist Board

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ircle the following dates in your calendars: July 7 and 21, and August 12, 2018. Those are the warm summer nights when the people of Solin will "put you in a time capsule" and take you back to the exciting ancient times when emperors walked through their city, and gladiator fights were a daily occurrence. That ancient treat, called "Romance in Salona", has become a traditional event that attracts tourists spending their holidays in various Dalmatian destinations to that city in central Dalmatia every summer.

As the locals raise the bar of creativity and diversity to a higher level every year, this year, they will await you with three thematic ancient evenings. The evening of gladiators and ancient theatre (July 7),

Events

Solin Tourist Board Kralja Zvonimira 69 21210 Solin, Croatia  +385 21 210048 tzg-solin@st.t-com.hr

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Experience Croatia

Active in the heart of the Adriatic While in the Šibenik area, spend your holiday on two wheels, and spice it up with cultural, musical, and culinary delights.

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Šibenik at dusk; The Barone fortress.

© Alan Grubelić / Šibenik Tourist Board

It sounds incredible, but in 1646, while the people of Šibenik feared the attack of the Ottoman army, they built the St. John and Barone fortresses in just two months! Later on, they added extensions to them, and St. John's fortress was originally much smaller than the current star-shaped fortress. Renovations on it are expected to start soon.

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he stone city of Šibenik arose next to the sea, protected by hills where three sturdy defensive fortresses St. Michael, St. John, and Barone, were built. Their stone walls offer a view of the waters surrounding Šibenik, which

© Alan Grubelić / Šibenik Tourist Board

© Alan Grubelić / Šibenik Tourist Board © Miranda Trklja / Šibenik-Knin County Tourist Board

© Alan Grubelić / Šibenik Tourist Board

include 240 islands, islets, skerries, and reefs - true paradise for sailors and divers!

Today, the renovated fortresses of St. Michael and Barone attract many tourists with their abundance of features.

So, at Barone fortress, with the help of state-of-the-art AR technology with computer-generated pictures and sounds, you can get to know more about 17th century Šibenik and experience the attack of the Ottomans in 1646. By using apps at the smart table, explore Šibenik's history, learn recipes for Šibenik's delicacies, research famous people from Šibenik from the 16th century to today, and watch a documentary movie on the construction of the fortresses and defense of the city.

St. Michael's fortress is one of the most attractive stages in the region, where cultural and musical shows are held.

Tour Šibenik's gem, the St. James cathedral from the 15th/16th century.

It took nearly a century to build, and it is outstanding in European architecture due to its construction solutions which allowed it to be completely built of stone, without mortar and wooden elements. It has been part of UNESCO's list of cultural heritage sites since 2000.

Šibenik's fortress at sea, the monumental 16th century St. Nicholas fortress, built in the narrow St. Ante channel, has been part of that prestigious list since 2017. Today, there is a nicely marked promenade, which is also one of Šibenik's most attractive bike & hike routes. Šibenik has positioned itself as the only small city in the world with two UNESCO sites.

A selfie with the old city center of Šibenik in the background; The St. James cathedral; Walking down Šibenik's seaside promenade at sunset is a true experience; The most popular bike & hike route in Šibenik passes alongside the St. Nicholas fortress.

On two wheels There are also two impressively beautiful national parks near Šibenik - Krka and Kornati, as well as the picturesque vineyards in Primošten, the karst hinterland, and breathtaking islands.

The experience is enhanced by the pleasant climate, plenty of sun, and rich gastronomy that pairs with fantastic wines. Irresistible nature beckons you to have an active vacation - from cycling and trekking to fishing and sailing.

The more than 850 km of marked cycling and walking trails in the region, of varying lengths and levels of difficulty, will take you on an exciting adventure through the center of the Croatian Adriatic - from Šibenik to the nearby settlements and islands. You will get to know more about

Find out plenty of information on the walking and cycling trails in the Šibenik area here: www.bikeandhike.hr

Dalmacija

Šibenik

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© Šibenik Tourist Board

Krapanj, an island famous for sponges and diving, Zlarin - the island of corals, and Žirje, an island that makes sailors swoon. Explore Primošten, a town with incredible beaches surrounded by seven islets, by bike, and Rogoznica, a calm and pleasant place, where legends of the Dragon Eye Lake will capture your attention. Continue riding along next to the sea to Vodice, a famous tourist destination, and the island of Prvić, the birthplace of the inventor Faust Vrančić.

While on your bike, visit the Vransko Lake Nature Park with many rare species of birds, and the lively towns of Tribunj and Pirovac, along with the island of Murter with incredible beaches and developed tourism. The trail will take you all the way to ancient Skradin, the sea entrance to the Krka National Park. Tour the Burnum, Bribirska glavica, and Danilo archeological sites. To make exploration by bike even more pleasant, the locals have also made rest stops along the way and have prepared maps, brochures, and websites with plenty of useful information to help you find your way with ease.

While cycling, make sure to explore the hinterland, the city of Drniš, famous for its fantastic prosciutto and the sculptor Ivan Meštrović, and the fortresses alongside the Krka and Čikola River canyons. While in the Čikola canyon, try your hand at canyoning, free climbing, and zip lining.

Continue on to the historical city of Knin and climb up to the Knin fortress, relax at the Cetina River spring, or hike up to Dinara (1831 m), the tallest Croatian mountain.

An eventful summer Along with culinary delights, another great enhancement to an active vacation are musical and cultural events, and this summer, there will truly be a lot

© International Children's Festival – CNT in Šibenik / Šibenik Tourist Board

© Miranda Trklja / Šibenik-Knin County Tourist Board © Šibenik's fortress of culture / Šibenik Tourist Board

© Šibenik's fortress of culture / Šibenik Tourist Board

Cycling in the Šibenik area reveals incredible views and Šibenik is interesting features; a city of many events - from klapa evenings to children's festivals; St. Michael's fortress is a stage for many concerts under a starry sky.

© Miranda Trklja / Šibenik-Knin County Tourist Board

ŠIBENIK-KNIN COUNTY

© Miranda Trklja / Šibenik-Knin County Tourist Board

Experience Croatia

of them in Šibenik. Don't miss out on the International Children's Festival (June 16-30), Šibenik's trademark for the past 60 years. Get your groove on at the Salsa Beach Splash Festival (July 3-8), rest and relax at the Šibenik Klapa Evenings (July 5 - September 13), explore alternative genres at the Regius festival (July 13-15).

In the old city center, enjoy jazz concerts at the OFF Jazz & Blues Festival (July 19-21), as well as the dance nights at Šibenik's Dance Festival (July 23-28). Don't miss out on the Evening of Dalmatian Chansons (August 17-18), the Changer Meetup Festival (August 23-28), which offers five different programs, and the Light is Life light spectacle (August 29), which will offer an attractive light show on Šibenik's seaside promenade. The left-wing alternative festival Fališ (September 5-8), and Fair in Medieval Šibenik (September 7-9) are just some of the events planned. All summer long, Šibenik's fortresses will also offer a rich and entertaining program. Here are just a few of the concerts in store: Laura Pergolizzi or LP (July 25), Massimo (July 27), Mario Biondi (August 2), Bryan Ferry (September 5)... An unforgettable musical experience is guaranteed. 

Šibenik Tourist Board Fausta Vrančića 18, 22000 Šibenik, Croatia  +385 22 212075, tz-sibenik@si.t-com.hr

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Beauties of Croatia

KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Krka - a source of endless inspiration Exalted many times, with alarming strength and touching beauty, Skradinski buk is a source of endless inspiration. Enjoy its beauty this summer.

Text and photos: "Krka National Park" Public Institution Skradinski buk is the most-visited part of the park; Bubbling waterfalls are an endless source of artistic and touristic inspiration.

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efore it disappears into the sea, the water of the Krka River, combined with the water of its tributary, the Čikola River, pours over the seventeen steps of the best-known and most-visited of its seven waterfalls - Skradinski buk. When the limestone barriers of the Buk rose up from the blue depths, the Krka River pooled to the Roški slap and the Čikola, through three kilometers of its lower course, so forming one of the most unusual and most beautiful landscapes in the park. Exalted many times, with alarming strength and touching beauty, in harmony with the playful flight of dragonflies, or the swimming of the Illyrian chub, Skradinski buk is, just like the Krka itself, a source of endless inspiration.

In order for Skradinski buk to remain preserved for future generations, and for visitors to have the opportunity to experience the surroundings of priceless natural, cultural, and historical heritage, in 2017 a way to limit the number of

visitors was introduced, and a decision set the maximum number of acceptable capacity at ten thousand visitors that can visit Skradinski buk at any given time. The visitors who cannot visit Skradinski buk at a certain time are offered alternative routes, or the opportunity to get to know more about the other areas of the national park. Screens with the number of tickets currently available for Skradinski buk have been installed at the Skradin and Lozovac entrances, and they can also be purchased in advance online, on the official Krka National Park and Parks of Croatia websites.

As a continuation of the sustainable management model, the first preparatory measures to limit swimming under the bridge at Skradinski buk will be introduced this year. That site, which is one of the most famous natural beauties of Croatia, next to the waterfall which is the main attraction, is made even more unique by the song of the nightingale, the splashing of the Eurasian coot, the

Krka's summer of culture

sounds of the green frog, and the flight of the northern goshawk. In order to completely experience the value of that natural phenomenon, it is necessary to influence the better flow of visitors using time dispersion. That is why new management measures will be implemented to try to decrease the amount of time spent at the site itself, which will directly affect the quality of the experience and open up many possibilities for visiting the Krka National Park attractions, specialized offers, and educational content in the middle and upper course.

The Krka National Park is a unique area where man and karst river coexist, with preserved natural processes, biological

"The Sounds of the Krka"; The Ides of Burnum; LegendFest.

diversity, incredible scenery, and cultural and traditional heritage so it must, as such, also be preserved for future generations. While watching the bubbly extravagance of the Buk from one of the viewpoints, and thinking about the small green spring the Krka River originates from beneath Topoljski buk near Knin, one can't help but ask himself: Where does all that water come from? Nature is the greatest artist, and all one can do is be humble before it. ď ś

From June to September, the Krka National Park Public Institution organizes movie and film nights, depictions of life in ancient times, exhibitions, workshops, and festivals on stages in nature, with the most beautiful backdrops of water, trees, and open skies. This year, visitors to Krka National Park will also be awaited by many events that will held during the traditional summer of culture. Here are just a few of them: The Sounds of the Krka, musical evenings next to the Krka (July and August); LegendFest, a festival of myths, legends, and stories (July 7 and 8 at RoĹĄki slap); the Ides of Burnum, a depiction of the life of Roman legionaries in the Roman military amphitheater (August 13); Bat Night, workshops with the aim of raising awareness for bat protection (the last weekend in August); Green Eye, a film festival dedicated to the topic of environmental protection (September). Find out more information on all events on the Krka National Park's official website: www.np-krka.hr

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VODICE

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

Experience Croatia

Vodice's lively summer The unique combination of a relaxed Mediterranean vibe and a lively tourist destination are a guarantee for a fantastic vacation in Vodice.

Text: Mirela Drkulec Miletić ◆ Photos: Vodice Tourist Board

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© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

The beach in Srima, a settlement adjacent to Vodice; Vodice Street Festival; Folklore night; A beach and stone street in Prvić Šepurine on the island of Prvić.

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ave you thought about going on summer vacation, but you still haven't decided where to go?

Head over to Vodice, a famous tourist destination located about ten kilometers north of Šibenik. At first sight, Vodice will win you over with the ideal combination of a relaxing Mediterranean vibe and developed tourist destination.

One of Vodice's great advantages are the beautiful beaches that will satisfy everyone's taste and where you will never be bored. Some of the most popular ones include Hangar Beach next to Vodice's famous Hotel Olympia and Plava Beach, which flies the Blue Flag as a sign the sea is clean. Both beaches are sandy-pebble beaches and they offer plenty of facilities for fun in the water and on shore, for people of all ages. There you will find trampolines, water parks, slides, artificial rock climbing walls, and the like, along with many bars and restaurants. Take the plunge and take a diving, sailing, or surfing course, while on Hangar Beach you can rent a bicycle, boat, pedal boat, or try parasailing.

Imperial Beach is another favorite with its water slide, and the Vićevica, Lovetovo, Križ, and other beaches are also pleasant. Vodice also has a dog beach in the center of the city. If you prefer warmer sea temperatures, head over to Mala Vrulje Beach, which has been formed in the shape of a closed lagoon with a pool. The temperature of the sea there can be up to ten degrees higher than in the surrounding sea, which enables swimming even in the late autumn months.

If you would like to relax on a calmer beach, head over to nearby Srima, where the beach also flies a Blue Flag.

Take a trip to the nearby island of Prvić.

Tour the two idyllic island settlements of Prvić Šepurine and Prvić Luka, visit the Faust Vrančić Memorial Center, built in honor of the inventor, scientist, and linguist, and relax on Prvić's enchanting beaches, such as Trstevica.

If you are looking for an active vacation, Vodice won't let you down. There are several diving centers in town, and their experienced instructors will help you experience the charms of the underwater

world and search for shipwrecks. You can also try your hand at fishing, and even Big Game Fishing. There are also several water sports centers where you can try to (and learn how to) sail and kayak, head out on a boat trip, rent a jet-ski, kayak, wind sail... There is truly plenty to do. Explore the area surrounding Vodice as well, which is ideal for walking and cycling. There are 350 km of marked road and mountain trails of all levels of difficulty and length.

At the tourist information center, ask for a map of the marked bike paths that run through Vodice and the surrounding area. You will get a real adrenaline rush by riding the red Orlov krug trail, where the C2 race for the World MTB Cup is held.

It is always lively in Vodice. All summer long, there are fun fishermen's and folklore evenings, and klapa songs can always be heard in the streets of Vodice on Wednesdays. As part of the Đardin je IN festival (June 16 - September 8), various artists and performers will perform on Knez Branimir Square. The Summer Bacchanalia (June 23) is also a unique event. At the Velika Mrdakovica - Roman Cistern archeological site, put on a Roman toga, try Roman treats, and have a lot of fun.

Every summer, the streets of Vodice come alive at the Vodice Street Festival (July 3-7) with many exhibitions and concerts, and the Vodice Jazz & Blues Festival (July 21-23) will play host to famous Croatian and foreign jazz

Summer Bacchanalia; The picturesque stone streets in Vodice are packed with tourists in the summer; CMC festival; Klapa Evening; Vodice Jazz & Blues Festival.

musicians. At the Vodice Feast (August 4), have fun with performances by Croatian singer Neno Belan and the Supercover Band, and listen to the best klapa groups at the 18th Evening of Dalmatian Klapa (August 12). 

Vodice Tourist Board Obala Vladimira Nazora b.b.

22211 Vodice, Croatia  +385 22 443888 info@vodice.hr

www.vodice.hr

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

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While in Vodice, take a trip to the Zrmanja River, a karst beauty that passes through an enchanting landscape. Head down its rapids and waterfalls in a kayak, and enjoy the beauty of magnificent canyon it has created, which was also the filming location for the legendary movie "Winnetou".

© Zoran Jelača / CNTB

© Ivan Ivanišević / Olympia Vodice

PROMO

Head out on excursions with Olympia O

lympia and Olympia Sky are modern, superbly furnished hotels in Vodice, a travel destination in the heart of Dalmatia, which have absolutely everything you need for the perfect holiday. Settle into the comfortable rooms there in Vodice and enjoy the many facilities the hotels offer. After you have gotten to know Vodice well, pick one of the excursions and discover the charming surrounding area. Many attractions can be found there in close vicinity - from national parks to renaissance cities and archeological sites. Amongst other places, the experienced guides at Hotel Olympia's travel agency will take you to Šibenik, the oldest Croatian city on the Adriatic that boasts a total of two UNESCO sites. Head out on an organized excursion to Krka National Park and

along with wine tasting, you will also find homemade morsels that pair excellently with them. 

Olympia Vodice d.d.

Ljudevita Gaja 6 22211 Vodice, Croatia  +385 22 452452, +385 22 452488 sales@olympiavodice.hr

www.olympiavodice.hr

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

experience the strength and beauty of the Krka River, which will be hard for you to leave behind. If you have a more active spirit, release some adrenaline in that enchanting landscape. Tighten the sails and head out to sea, explore the destination by kayak, or by bike... From the wide range of options, gourmets will choose the all-day culinary tour and discover Dalmatia through its enticing flavors. The tour will take you to the world of seafood delicacies in fantastic taverns and restaurants, and you will enjoy tasty dishes, prepared from fresh, local ingredients, while visiting hosts in Vodice's hinterland. While there, make sure to try peka (meat or fish roasted under a bell). The wine tour will reveal the superb qualities of Dalmatian wine, while it takes you through picturesque vineyards and to wine cellars, where,

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Excursion

BRIJUNI NATIONAL PARK

© Marko Vrdoljak / "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution

"B

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© un Mar k Pu i Na o V bl tio rd ic n ol In al j st Pa ak itu rk tio " n

Explore Brijuni this summer.

It doesn’t matter how on foot, by bike, tourist train, Segway, electric car, Cadillac... the choice is yours.

Tour Brijuni in style Text: Petra Škofić ◆ Photos: "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution

Explore the treasure hidden for centuries by the untouched archipelago of the Brijuni National Park, an unavoidable attraction on Istria's tourism map.

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Luxurious yachts docked in Veli Brijun's bay; Touring Brijuni by tourist train; Riding in a Cadillac is a unique experience; Picturesque scenes are a feature of Brijuni.

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longside the western coast of the Istrian peninsula, surrounded by the blue Adriatic Sea, there are 14 islets that attract tourists from all parts of the world with their enchanting nature, plentiful animal life, priceless cultural heritage, and many other features. Explore the charms of the island Veliki Brijun with a tourist train, on foot, or rent a bike, electric car, Segway, or a Cadillac. The most popular way of touring is the tourist train, which will take you to the main attractions of that largest island in the archipelago. There you will see a 1600 year-old olive tree, pass a row of centuries-old trees with canopies that whisper stories of times past, tour the Safari Park, whose inhabitants - zebras, ostriches, a llama, an Indian elephant, and Indian holy cows will give you the feeling that you have wandered onto another continent. At the Safari Park, there is also an Ethno Park with Istrian sheep, cattle, and goats. You will be impressed by the Brijuni Mediterranean

garden with 169 species of indigenous and exotic plants, and the rich historical island heritage. It includes a 2000 yearold Ancient Roman residential villa, a science collection, and a photography exhibition on Josip Broz Tito, along with 500 year-old frescoes and monuments written in the Glagolitic alphabet in the church of St. German. Seek refreshment in one of the superb seaside restaurants, and take a souvenir or two home from Brijuni to remember it by.

Excursions for everyone For an unconventional excursion, skip the train and get to know more about the islands' unique natural and cultural heritage by following the 25 information boards on the Zelenikovac educational trail. Besides learning interesting stories about medieval maritime battles, it is also a unique opportunity to see the foot­ prints of dinosaurs that lived on Brijuni 65 million years ago. The archeological

© Marko Vrdoljak / "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution © Renco Kosinožić / "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution

© Marko Vrdoljak / "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution © Marko Vrdoljak / "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution

your visit to Brijuni in style - with a luxurious ride in Tito's Cadillac and feel as if you were part of the time when the island was visited by Hollywood's glamourous elite. 

where you can relax on an artistically designed bench, swing, or lounge chair on the coast, in the forest, or at one of the archeological sites the park is full of.

Cycling Heaven on the Brijuni is another cycling trail, suitable for children and recreational athletes, and it will take you through the beautiful landscapes and sites of that Istrian paradise. Seek refreshment from the heat on the educational underwater trail in Verige Bay, and, with a mask and snorkel, explore the opulent sunken Roman villa and its inhabitants: fish, urchins, algae, sea sponges, crabs, and shellfish. End

Zebras in the Safari Park; The Kastrum site; Touring the park by electric car and bike; A swing on the Good Vibrations Path; Verige Bay with an educational underwater trail.

© Renco Kosinožić / "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution

© Marko Vrdoljak / "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution © Renco Kosinožić / "Brijuni National Park" Public Institution

tour on the intriguing history of the Brijuni area from prehistoric times to ancient times, and the Venetian reign is also recommended. You will find plenty of information on the cultural, historical, and natural heritage at the Boathouse, with a permanent exhibition divided into six sections: Brijuni Time Machine, Brijuni Archipelago, Mainland, Submarine World, Threats, and Awareness.

As is expected, Brijuni offer a perfect holiday from the hustle and bustle of daily life, especially on the walking and cycling Good Vibrations Path. It includes five carefully chosen locations,

"Brijuni National Park" Public Institution Istria, Croatia,  +385 52 525888 brijuni@np-brijuni.hr

www.np-brijuni.hr

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Experience Croatia

KVARNER

© Petar Tr inajs

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Bell towers in the city of Rab; The city of Krk on the island of Krk; The town of Lubenice on the island of Cres; St. Peter's Bay on the island of Cres; Young people with a bouquet of immortelle, which is one of the aromas that fills the air of Kvarner.

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All the benefits of Kvarner Text: Željka Kunštek Photos: Kvarner Region Tourist Board

A beautiful coastline, enchanting islands, and a magnificent mountain range are the three main natural features that have shaped Kvarner, a region in the northeastern Adriatic that is visited all year long by those who take care of their health, love to spend their time outdoors, by gourmets, along with all those who want to have a great time.

This summer, discover the benefits of Kvarner, the region where the story of Croatian tourism started a long time ago.

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you can experience an endless number of stories all year long - you can enjoy heavenly beaches and ski with a view of the sea, adopt a dolphin and admire the flight of a Griffon vulture, stroll through medieval towns, dive down to underwater caves and shipwrecked ships sunk long ago, tighten the sails and head out to sea, or cycle to your heart's content on marked trails with fantastic landscapes... You will pamper your taste buds with the best shrimp in the world and incredible wines..., all while surrounded by the intoxicating aromas of the Mediterranean.

© Petar Tr

ew regions can boast the diversity the Kvarner Bay, better known as Kvarner, has. Nature has gifted the area with a coastline, which includes the Opatija and Crikvenica Riviera, the Novi Vinodolski Riviera, and the area surrounding Rijeka, with benefits and beauty that were also enjoyed by the Austrian emperors. However, nature didn't stop there and also gave Kvarner four large islands accompanied by an archipelago - Krk, Rab, Lošinj, and Cres, and topped them all off with Gorski Kotar, a mountainous region that connects continental Croatia with Mediterranean Croatia. So in Kvarner,

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© Blaha Petr / Kvarner Region Tourist Board

© Ernst von Chaulin / Kvarner Region Tourist Board

© Frank Heuer/laif / Kvarner Region Tourist Board

© Siniša Gulić / Kvarner Region Tourist Board

KVARNER

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Experience Croatia

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The Aromatic Garden on the island of Lošinj; The Sunny Cove on the island of Lošinj; Hotel Miramar in Opatija; Vila Hortensia on the island of Lošinj; Green islands and the blue sea that splashes them are features of Kvarner.

Ingredients for many treatments at Kvarner's wellness and spa centers are the sea and sea salt, famous for its many therapeutic qualities, and products made with therapeutic plants from Kvarner.

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Outdoor aromatherapy To start, whenever you arrive at any part of Kvarner - breathe deeply. Kvarner has always been visited to improve one's health, but also for preventive reasons, primarily due to the healthy, fresh air - a Mediterranean cocktail where the aroma of the sea combines with aromas of herbs and the dense, green forests. The mild climate with plenty of hours of sun per year, in combination with natural beauty, the benefits of the sea, and the good road connections, have attracted elite tourists to Kvarner since the 19th century. The beginning of health tourism in Croatia started more than 170 years ago there, more precisely, in Opatija, an elite winter resort that, along with Nice, Karlovy Vary, Cannes, and Biarritz, was at the very top of fashionable European resorts in the 19th and first half of the 20th century. At the same time, in Crikvenica, forty kilometers away, a

health resort was opened for children and adults, and the coastal town was named a climatic health and sea resort.

The island of Lošinj, known today as the island of vitality, is a story of its own.

Due to their gentle microclimate, the island towns of Mali and Veli Lošinj have also been named climate resorts, and excellent results in treating respiratory and skin ailments have been achieved there. Climate resorts have also been built on the island of Rab and in Skrad and Delnice. Take a walk down one of the many seaside promenades in Kvarner and enjoy the natural wellness. Inhaling the natural sea aerosol will re-energize you, strengthen your immunity, improve your concentration, decrease headaches and fatigue, relieve stress, and ease breathing for those suffering from allergies and asthma. The sun will give you all the benefits of vitamin D, and during your stay in the warmer months, don't hesitate for even a second and

Š ar rd Se ion je g vo Re rd Hr er oa n B ar st Kv uri To

Luxurious hotels and villas on LoĹĄinj, an island of health and vitality; Camping on the island of Krk.

dive into the sea. Swim carefree as long as you like. The Adriatic Sea is amongst the cleanest in Europe, which was also confirmed by the European Commission report for testing water quality, and contains more than 80 minerals and elements that positively affect the entire body. Due to all of that, 125 years ago, Opatija and Crikvenica started using thalassotherapy (treatment with sea water, air, and the elements) for the purpose of medical rehabilitation and prevention.

Thanks to those many natural factors, but also a long tradition of tourism, superb health institutions and hotels, great medical staff that has access to the most modern equipment, a wide offer of health and medical services with affordable prices, a healthy Mediterranean diet, and the nowadays especially important safety of the destination, Kvarner has a high position as a health-care destination on the

health-travel map of Europe and the world. There you will find special resorts, private clinics and polyclinics, wellness and spa centers, all united under the brand Kvarner Health and Wellbeing. Along with dental treatments, Kvarner's clinics and polyclinics are also in demand for, amongst other things, physical rehabilitation, orthopedic treatments, dermatology, allergic and rheumatic ailments, and plastic surgery procedures.

Catch the rhythm Being outdoors in the fresh sea and mountain air, surrounded by Kvarner's preserved nature, is perfect for having an active vacation. Kvarner is crisscrossed with paths and thematic trails that will take you next to sea, cultural attractions, and irresistible views that you will definitely eternalize with your camera to imbed them in

Risnjak National Park and UÄ?ka Nature Park, gems of preserved nature worth making time for, can also be found in the Kvarner area.

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The picturesque landscape of the island of Cres; Sailboats and yachts anchored next to the island of Susak; Walking along beaches and swimming in the sea is enjoyed by all generations.

Kvarner Outdoor is a project that brands Kvarner as a fantastic destination for an active vacation.

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© Miljenko Hegedić / Kvarner Region Tourist Board

KVARNER

© Frank Heuer/laif / Kvarner Region Tourist Board

Experience Croatia

your memory forever. You will also pass by cozy accommodation facilities and restaurants that will attract you with the enticing flavors of Kvarner's dishes, with a hint of the Mediterranean and mountainous Croatia. The trails are of various levels of difficulty and length, and they have interesting, and even romantic names. The Love Path, the Heart Trail, Mountain Fairy, the Path of Lošinj's Captains, the Heavenly Trail, the Roman Trail, the Carmen Sylva trail, the Trail of Oaks and Sage, the Frankopan trail... those are just a few... Hikers will also enjoy themselves in Kvarner and choose one of the hiking trails, depending on what kinds of landscapes they would like to pass by - those that connect the coast and the interior, that pass along islands, down shores and through the hinterland, or those that pass through the dense forests of Gorski Kotar.

It is a special experience to explore Kvarner's destinations by bike on marked bike trails that pass through irresistible landscapes. Stop and rest wherever you'd like - on the beach, next

to picturesque coves, in forests, next to viewpoints, in taverns...

Experience the colors, aromas, and sounds of Kvarner. Fans of mountain biking will feel at home in Kvarner, along with those who would like to test their limits and get an adrenaline rush through other activities. Dive into the magical underwater world, explore underwater caves and the shipwrecks of ships sunk long ago. Do it accompanied by experienced divers from the diving center that will teach you the sport, get you the right equipment and take you to the most beautiful locations. Try wakeboarding, feel the freedom of parachuting or head up with a paraglider, head down a zip-line over incredible views, watch animals...

See the flight of a Griffon vulture on Cres, and the way bottlenose dolphins happily play in the Lošinj archipelago.

The Kvarner archipelago is the perfect place to tighten the sails, head out to sea, and feel free. In the mountainous area, you will find mountain rivers, ideal for rafting and canoeing, and lakes, which are sure to attract fishermen.

The options are truly plentiful.

Diversity is beautiful

Diversity is beautiful

Risnjak National Park

Učka Nature Park

www.np-risnjak.hr

www.pp-ucka.hr

Platak regional sports, recreationaland tourist centre www.platak.hr

kvarner region tourist board 51410 opatija, nikole tesle 2, t +385 (0)51 272 988, e kvarner@kvarner.hr ’kvarner info – the adriatic gate’ tourist information centre: t +385 (0)51 623 333, 628 888, e info@kvarner.hr www.kvarner.hr

Risnjak National Park

Učka Nature Park

www.np-risnjak.hr

www.pp-ucka.hr

Platak regional sports, recreationaland tourist centre www.platak.hr

kvarner region tourist board 51410 opatija, nikole tesle 2, t +385 (0)51 272 988, e kvarner@kvarner.hr ’kvarner info – the adriatic gate’ tourist information centre: t +385 (0)51 623 333, 628 888, e info@kvarner.hr www.kvarner.hr

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Experience Croatia

KVARNER

Did you know that World Health Organization named Mediterranean cuisine, which is typical in the coastal and island region of Kvarner, the healthiest in the world? That cuisine was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of the World in 2013.

You are sure to get hungry after an active day. Don't worry, you are in a good place - in the region that has the highest concentration of superb restaurants that are located in close vicinity to one another, which have been at the very top of Croatia's gourmet scene for years.

Look for those that bear the Kvarner Gourmet and Kvarner Food signs that guarantee unique culinary experiences.

And your gourmet adventure can start.

On plates in Kvarner, under the watchful eye of top-notch chefs, you will go on a journey through its rich past, where the influences of neighboring Italian, Austrian, Hungarian, and even partially Czech gastronomy intertwine. The foods eaten by ordinary people, which filled the air in the kitchens of fishermen, shepherds, and laborers, are deeply interwoven into daily life in Kvarner. As far as ingredients are concerned, some are common in all parts of Kvarner, while others differ, depending on the area.

As far as their quality is concerned, there is no compromise - they must be fresh, local, and seasonal, because only superb ingredients can result in a superb meal.

There, where the sea and mountains meet, ingredients have retained the aroma and flavor of the Mediterranean that will win over everyone's taste buds.

In Gorski Kotar, you will enjoy dishes made of game, mushrooms, freshwater fish, and frogs, and desserts made with berries. When you head down to the

© Hrvoje Gulić / Kvarner Region Tourist Board

Frankopan Cake is a representative of the cuisine in Crikvenica; Mediterranean dishes can be enjoyed in Kvarner's coastal and island destinations; Many restaurants in Kvarner offer another treat alongside delicious dishes - a view of the sea; Dishes made with the renowned Kvarner shrimp win over even the most refined taste buds.

Through Kvarner's enticing flavors

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coastal region and the islands, enjoy Mediterranean dishes - fish, crabs, shellfish... Don't forget to try the "king" of them all - the widely famous Kvarner shrimp that gourmets from all over the world lust for, claiming it is the tastiest in the world. The wild Mediterranean plants - rosemary, bay, sage, asparagus, thyme - give the dishes a special note.

On the islands, try dishes made with island lamb, sheep and goat cheese, curds, prosciutto... Nearly every dish in the coastal region and on the islands will be enriched with "liquid gold", superb local olive oil. Round off the gourmet experience with a glass of Žlahtina, a white wine (and an ideal summer wine) made by the indigenous grape sort of the same name that grows bathed in sun near the town of Vrbnik on the island of Krk and in the Vinodol area. Try Valomet, a champagne that ages at the bottom of the sea, which is made from authentic Vrbnik Žlahtina.

Kvarner shrimp can be recognized for its pale red color and thin shell, and they are special for the fact that they live in shallow waters, with plenty of sources of fresh water, which makes them incredibly tender and sweet.

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Experience Croatia

KVARNER

A packed schedule

The city of Rijeka is Kvarner's biggest city and the center of many events; In June, the town of Lovran is in the sign of cherries; In Vrbnik on the island of Krk, try šurlice and Vrbnička Žlahtina; The town of Crni Lug in Gorski Kotar is the host of Risnjak Trail.

Have a look at the calendar of events in Kvarner here:

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Besides getting a lot of rest, spending your time actively, and enjoying the flavors of Kvarner, you will also have a great time on Kvarner with plenty of events. Kvarner is starting summer with a packed event calendar, so the next three months there await you with a bunch of great fun for all generations. Here, we bring you a few events: Kantuni (all of June) will entertain you in the old city of Rab with selected music and a traditional offer in an enchanting ambiance, and those who love running definitely went to Rijeka Trail (June 9), with several races.

Cherry buffs are sure to visit Lovran and enjoy desserts made of that delicious fruit at the Lovran Cherry Festival (June 9-17), and the Cherry Festival in Crikvenica (June 9-10). Paradise Beach in Lopar on the island of Rab will become the stage for sand sculptures as a part of the Sand Sculpture Festival (June 11-16), and avid fans of the sea and sails will be sure to visit the Fiumanka Regatta

(June 14-17) in Rijeka. Try delicious homemade pasta (šurlice) at the Šurlice Days (June 15-24) in Punat on the island of Krk, and everything elderflower at the Elderflower Day (June 16) in Ravna Gora. Enjoy oily fish dishes at Oily Fish Week (June 22-29) in Crikvenica. The Kvarner festival of the sea and maritime tradition - "Fiumare" (May 30 - June 7) in Rijeka, the Žlahtina Festival (June 30 July 1) in Vrbnik on the island of Krk, RetrOpatija (June 30 - July 1) in Opatija, and the Festival of Polenta and Cheese (June 30 - July 1) in Dražice are just some of the upcoming events. Don't miss out on Blueberry Days (July 2-7) in Ravna Gora, Liburnia Jazz Festival (July 6-8) in Opatija, Risnjak Trail (July 7) in Crni Lug, Šurlice Days (July 8-15) in Vrbnik, Paradise Samba Festival (July 19) in Lopar, CrikvArt street performance festival (July 20-21) in Crikvenica, the Opatija - Imperial town event (July 21-27) in Opatija, and the traditional Rab Fjera (July 25-27) in Rab, which is also the largest medieval summer festival in Croatia. August in Kvarner will be in the sign of Tourism Days (August 1-5) in Selce, Fishermen's Days (August 3-5) in Baška on the island of Krk, the traditional Šilo - Crikvenica swimming marathon (August 15), BIG FEST 2018 - the Baška International Guitar Festival (August 17-20) in Baška, Fishermen's Week (August 25 September 2) in Crikvenica... This year also marks the 900th anniversary of the first time the Frankopans, the counts of Krk, were mentioned, which has also inspired many events over the following months in Kvarner... 

Croatia’s Croatia’s best best kept kept secret secret

kvarner region tourist board 51410 opatija, nikole tesle 2, t +385 (0)51 272 988, e kvarner@kvarner.hr ’kvarner info – the adriatic gate’ tourist information centre: t +385 (0)51 623 333, 628 888, e info@kvarner.hr www.kvarner.hr

kvarner region tourist board 51410 opatija, nikole tesle 2, t +385 (0)51 272 988, e kvarner@kvarner.hr ’kvarner info – the adriatic gate’ tourist information centre: t +385 (0)51 623 333, 628 888, e info@kvarner.hr www.kvarner.hr

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© Crikvenica Tourist Board

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Oily Fish Week

© Ston Tourist Board

Oily Fish Week (June 22-29) will be held for the 6th time at the Crikvenica Riviera, whose fishermen were already experienced and renowned masters of catching oily fish, along with other fish, back in the 18th century. Visit one of the dozen restaurants in the Riviera that bear the "The Oily Fish Route" sign, and try delicious and tasty dishes prepared with oily fish.

The Salt Festival The Salt Festival (August 28 - September 3) will be held at the oldest salt works in Europe, in the town of Ston, where salt is still produced as it was in the 14th century. www.ston.hr

www.rivieracrikvenica.com

The Sinj Alka Every year, for more than 300 years, the Sinj Alka (August 3-5), a competition of Alkar lancers, is held in the town of Sinj, in memory of the defeat of the Ottomans in 1715. www.alka.hr

MIK 2018

© Branko Čović / Sinj Tourist Board

This year, the MIK, "Melodies of Istria and Kvarner" festival, starts out from Pula (June 15), after which the singing caravan will tour Rijeka, Krk, Opatija, and Kastav, and the host of the grand finale, on June 23, will be Poreč. www.festivalmik.com

tipTravel magazine is not responsible for decisions made by event planners regarding changes in schedules, performers, programs, or in case the event is cancelled. So, in order to find out the details for the event you are interested in, click on the link below the announcement.

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PROMO

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For successful congresses

re you planning on organizing a congress, seminar, professional gathering, team building, or event for your business partners, and you want to leave a good impression?

Choose one of the hotels in the Jadran Crikvenica d.d. hotel group, famous for its long tradition in organizing various events, to host your business event. The Omorika, Katarina, and Esplanade hotels are located in irresistible surroundings -

right next to the sea, immersed in the aromatic Mediterranean vegetation in Crikvenica, a popular travel destination in the northern Adriatic.

Hotel Omorika has three multifunctional halls, with a total capacity of 337 people, Hotel Katarina has two, with a total capacity of 250 people, and Hotel Esplanade has one hall that can accommodate 50 people. They are all equipped to organize all kinds of gatherings, meetings, presentations, and similar business events. The large advantage is that the halls can be connected to one another, and they are all equipped with topnotch equipment - LCD projectors, a screen, flip charts, microphones, and a sound system. Coffee breaks can also be organized for your business partners at all of the hotels, along

with business lunches where you can enjoy selected culinary delicacies and fine wines, while you share your thoughts about the event. 

Jadran Crikvenica Hotels & Camps  +385 51 800480 mice@jadran-crikvenica.hr

www.jadran-crikvenica.hr

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Bike tourism

PLITVICE LAKES

Cycling around Plitvice Lakes After relaxing in the bubbly green fairytale of Plitvice Lakes, slowly speed up the pace and explore the other beautiful parts the area is abundant in.

Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: Lucija and Rade Jug / Plitvice Lakes Tourist Board

Download a map to find your way around the trails easily here:

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here is no need to talk a lot about the beauty of the magnificent waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes National Park, which have enriched the list of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites.

However, next time you come to that area, don't visit just the clear lakes and bounteous waterfalls because that part of Croatia's interior has so much more beauty to share with you. Discover it actively, by bike, on foot, on horseback, or from the air - by paragliding, a sport that is growing in popularity. More than 150 km of marked trails await you there and invite you to go on exciting adventures through enchanting nature.

The trails are marked with a navigation system that is simple and easy to use even for those who aren't experienced in navigating through nature. The system is based on a network of control points connected with trail sections, so you can follow pre-defined routes or, as desired, you can create your own and

define their length and difficulty level, as well as the type of ground, without worrying about getting lost.

One of the most popular ways of sightseeing in the Plitvice Lakes Municipality for all generations of tourists is by bike. Logically, cycling is not permitted in the national park, but you can cycle on the southern and northern borders of the park, from where a network of marked bike trails branch out, to your heart's content.

While cycling, you can conquer the surrounding mountains (Lička Plješivica and Mrsinj), follow the course of crystalclear rivers, discover hidden villages, ride alongside herds of sheep on open fields, pass by incredible viewpoints...

There are truly many experiences.

There are five marked bike trails of various difficulties in the area of the Plitvice Lakes Municipality, adapted to all kinds of cyclists - both recreational and professional. If you prefer a slower

pace, choose one of the following three trails, ideal for a three-day recreational tour. The Popolje trail, 16.5 km long, meanders through Koreničko polje and follows the Matica River to its chasm, where you can rest. The following day, continue on with the slightly more intense Mrsinj trail, 36 km long, and ideal for an entire day of enjoyment. The trail will take you alongside typical Lika landscapes, where forests intertwine with open meadows, which are made even more picturesque by herds of sheep and cows. Make sure to take pictures to

remember those memories forever. The third day will be the most demanding for recreational cyclists, because the trail will take them through the hills of Lička Plješivica. It is 36.5 km long, and at certain points it reaches an altitude of 1000 m above sea level. However, every drop of sweat will be worth it since the trail will reward you with an incredible view of Koreničko polje and Bjelopolje and the peak of Plješivica.

Experienced cyclists and those in better shape will think of the three-day tour as a warm-up and introduction to two much

more demanding trails. The Trail, nearly 21 km in length, is relatively demanding and includes the challenging Adria Bike Marathon descent towards Korenica. Cyclists will find a true challenge the following day on the Gola Plješivica bike trail, 46.5 km in length, which reaches an altitude of 1350 m. The trail climbs up to beneath the peak of Lička Plješivica, and you will surely break into a sweat several times, after which you will head down with views of Koreničko polje and Mrsinj on the way. Priceless. 

Plitvice Lakes Tourist Board Trg sv. Jurja 6, 53230 Korenica, Croatia  +385 53 776798, info@tzplitvice.hr © s ke La rd ice oa itv B Pl rist u To

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PLITVICE VALLEYS

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Experience Croatia

In the idyllic Plitvice Valleys Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: Rakovica Tourist Board

The picturesque landscapes of the Plitvice Valleys are attractive to cyclists.

N

ature, the greatest artist, showed its creativity not only in the world famous natural pearl, the Plitvice Lakes National Park, but also in the area surrounding it. It is truly worth taking the time to explore the

Cycling or horseback riding, walking, zip lining...

There are plenty of ways to explore the beauty and experience the strength of the magnificent nature that shaped the Plitvice Valleys.

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beauty of the area that guards the park on its northern side and is just a few kilometers away from the bubbly green fairytale of Plitvice Lakes. On maps, you will find it under the name Rakovica, and once you are nearby, follow the brown signs for Plitvice Valleys, because that is the name the idyllic oasis near the park bears.

Near the Plitvice Valleys is Rastoke, an enchanting watermill settlement that they call Little Plitvice, or Plitvice's lobby, where you can also enjoy the calm, idyllic sound of the waterfalls of the green-blue Slunjčica River for at least part of the day. A less-known fact is that the Plitvice Valleys are home

© Barać Caves / Rakovica Tourist Board

In order to simplify touring the destinations, the locals have come up with three routes: The Water Route, Forest Route, and Cave Route. The Water Route connects the already mentioned historical old town of Drežnik tower with comfortable hotels, restaurants, and camps, and takes you to ranches with animals - Terra and Deer Valley. There you can see deer, thoroughbred horses, and domestic black pigs, and go horseback riding accompanied by professional guides. Those looking for an adrenaline

© Barać Caves / Rakovica Tourist Board

© Rade Jug / Rakovica Tourist Board

© Goran Perešin / Rakovica Tourist Board

Three routes - three experiences

Herds of sheep complement the idyllic landscape; The old town of Drežnik; The beauty of Barać Caves attract visitors of all generations; The Plitvice Valleys can also be toured on horseback.

© Goran Perešin / Rakovica Tourist Board

to a tower and ruins of the solid walls of the old town of Drežnik, the former castle of the Frankopan counts, which was at the first line of defense from frequent Ottoman attacks. Today, from its renovated tower, you can enjoy the view of the Korana River meandering through enchanting nature. The tower is also open during the summer, and in it you can see a collection of weapons, find out how it was built, which historical battles it experienced, and see the official uniforms of the local police at that time.

Nature also gifted the Plitvice Valleys an incredible underground world, which is represented by the Barać Caves.

They unite the Upper, Lower, and New Barać Cave, the Baraćevac cave spring, and five other caves. It is a piece of natural art formed over millions of years, and you can experience it during a pleasant 40 minute walk through the mystical cave halls and passages. It is best to do so accompanied by a guide who will show you the underground world in an interesting way and take you through the Guano Hall and Elephant Feet Hall, which is full of stalagmites and stalactites, famous cave adornments, and columns that reach a height of ten meters. Feel the peace and strength of that place, and then head over to the Dragon's Gorge, and the Hall of Lost Souls and experience a moment of absolute darkness. If you look carefully, you might even see bats in the caves.

The halls and passages at Barać Caves are adapted to visitors of all generations, so even the youngest will enjoy their time there.

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Exploring the landscape on horseback and bike; The Legends of the Plitvice Valleys will bring the history of the area alive.

© Goran Perešin / Rakovica Tourist Board

Be at the old town of Drežnik on June 23, 2018, and travel back in time, listen to legends and good music, try traditional foods...

rush can find it at Gajina Cave, above the Korana River canyon, where they can try free climbing, zorbing (rolling in a ball), or a 300 meter-long zip line.

The Cave Route is based on a tour of Barać Caves, while the Forest Route is a favorite amongst cyclists, horseback riders, and gourmets. Experienced cyclists can go on an adventure on the demanding R33 and R34 bike routes that pass alongside river springs, the remains of old houses and wells, and other witnesses to life as it was in that area. It is recommended that groups of cyclists travel together. There is also an equestrian club on the way that offers the possibility of touring part of the Plitvice Valleys on horseback, which is truly a special experience.

Whether on bike or on horseback, you are sure to be hungry after an active day. There are two restaurants and three family estates on the way that offer delicious cheeses, honey and honey products, local fruit and vegetables...

If you want to rest there as well, you can take your pick of hotels, camps, and comfortable rooms at private homesteads.

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© Rade Jug / Rakovica Tourist Board

The 45th parallel passes through the Forest Route at the settlement of Jelov Klanac. That geographical position is located halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, which means it is a place with an ideal climate.

© Rade Jug / Rakovica Tourist Board

PLITVICE VALLEYS

© Goran Perešin / Rakovica Tourist Board

Experience Croatia

If you choose to visit the Plitvice Valleys during June, your stay will be additionally spiced up with the historical-tourism event "Legends of the Plitvice Valleys".

History will come alive there on June 23, 2018 at the old town of Drežnik, and through interesting legends and historical events, it will clearly tell you the story of what life was like in the past in that area. There you will also see Eugen Kvaternik, the leader of the Rakovica Revolt and the Serežani, the elite historical Plitvice Valleys' police in their impressive uniforms, the Japoda tribe, masters of making beautiful jewelry... You will also witness cooking duels, competitions in preparing local traditional meals, and you will also enjoy good music, performances by folk dance groups, presentations of local products and crafts... The youngest visitors will be delighted by the thematic workshops, and at that time they will also be able to become young archeologists. Horses from the nearby equestrian clubs will also be there, so you will also be able to try your hand at horseback riding, and small gifts will also await everyone there.

See you at the tower! 

Legends of the Plitvice Valleys Saturday, June 23, 2018 4 p.m., Old town of DreĹžnik

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Events

ZAGREB Make the Moment #Zagreb

© ZAGREB TOURIST BOARD, www.infozagreb.hr

Zagreb's summer beat Deservingly one of Europe's best destination, Zagreb will kick off summer with a packed schedule.

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Text: Petra Škofić Photos: Zagreb Tourist Board

This year, Summer on Štros will once again await visitors with a packed program.

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xhibitions, concerts, movies and outdoor performances are just part of the good vibrations that will take over the romantic Strossmayer promenade on the Upper Town in the summer months. While there, visit Summer on Štros (May 23 - September 2), one of the most popular events in Zagreb, and enjoy the artistic side of Croatia's capital in the shade of the dense canopies of the chestnut trees. Find out more about the less-known side of the Croatian metropolis with the Secrets of Grič, an interactive theatrical performance that, from June to September, leads visitors through the meandering streets of the Upper Town illuminated by lanterns and reveals intriguing stories and legends. Find shelter from the hot city streets in the shade and greenery of Zagreb's popular oasis, Maksimir Park.

Every Saturday from June to August, on the meadow next to the Second Lake,

a Picnic in Maksimir is held. Play board games, read books, listen to music, play sports, and relax with a picnic on the grass with delicious local treats.

A delicious musical summer Under the starry summer night sky, listen to opera music performed by Zagreb's best choirs and music by leading international and local orchestras at the Zagreb Classics festival (June 21 - July 15). Fans of modern music will head to the shores of Jarun Lake, otherwise known as Zagreb's sea, where the InMusic Festival will gather the musical elite for the thirteenth consecutive year (June 25-27). This year, you can hear Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Queens of the Stone Age, Interpol, Portugal, The Man, Alice in Chains...

This summer, film buffs will also have something to see in Zagreb. The Fantastic

© Sanjin Kaštelan / Zagreb Tourist Board

© Julien Duval / Zagreb Tourist Board

© Julien Duval / Zagreb Tourist Board © M. Gašparović / Zagreb Tourist Board

© M. Gašparović / Zagreb Tourist Board

Zagreb Film Festival (June 28 - July 7) is the largest festival of fantastic and related genres in the region that is once again preparing true film delights - from sci-fi, thrillers, and action to psychological dramas and horror movies.

The incredible location under the starry sky where the screenings are held add an additional attractive note to the festival - the old Medvedgrad fortress, and the Tuškanac summer stage, located in a forest just twenty minutes away from the center of the city.

Pop behind the façades of Zagreb's palaces, studios, and institutes and

experience the intimate atmosphere of their Courtyards (July 13-22). Each courtyard has a story of its own - listen to them accompanied by an abundant musical and cultural program and refreshing drinks and treats. Five days of performances, dance and musical workshops, folk theater and concerts are all part of the 52nd International Folk Dance Festival (July 18-22). At the Crossover festival, (July 25-29), the rhythm of eclectic musical styles performed by musicians from all over the world will spice up the intimate atmosphere of Ribnjak park. 

The Secrets of Grič; The Zagreb Classics festival; The InMusic festival; The Fantastic Zagreb Film Festival; Courtyards.

Experience Zagreb's summer beat and visit some of the many events - Summer on Štros, Courtyards, the InMusic festival...

Enjoy your stay & save money with Zagreb Card offers you unlimited travel on public transport, free entrance to 6 city attractions, reduced prices at many restaurants, shops and much more…

Available in 24h and 72h version.

MORE INFORMATION AT WWW.ZAGREBCARD.COM

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PROMO

Pedicab through Zagreb Discover the best of Zagreb - its attractions, along with its hidden corners - while riding in a Pedicab, accompanied by experienced drivers, who are also local tour guides.

E Reserve a city tour at +385 99 6037575 or via e-mail: info@pedicab.hr, and watch a video on riding in a Pedicab here:

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xperience Zagreb from a different perspective and tour it in a more interesting way than with a regular tourist tour. Jump into a Pedicab, an open, electric-powered rickshaw, and head out on your Zagreb adventure in an eco-friendly, leisurely style. You will be accompanied by your personal driver, who is also a tour guide who knows the Croatian capital like the back of their hand, and within an hour or two, they will take you through the historical center of the city, which would take at least four to five hours on foot. So, touring the city with a Pedicab is definitely the most time-efficient way to tour the city, which also makes it one of the most popular ways. Besides seeing the main attractions and green city oases, along the way, your driver will also reveal many interesting

facts, local customs and legends, and they will take you to hidden corners of the city still undiscovered by tourists, which only the locals know about.

They will also tell you the story of the legendary Zagreb "fijaker", whose spirit has been brought alive nowadays in a more modern way by Pedicab. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations for a great place to drink a good coffee (which is something you must do in Zagreb), and try local dishes, and they will gladly show you the way to the places where festivals, which Zagreb is known for far and wide, are currently being held. If you would like to know what the top exhibitions are, where the best place to go shopping is, where to buy souvenirs, etc. - ask your driver and experience Zagreb from the best perspective - from a Pedicab. ď ś

PROMO

Business and pleasure in the heart of Zagreb V

ery few hotels in the city of Zagreb can boast an 86-yearlong tradition. So, it's no wonder that Hotel Dubrovnik, which has been welcoming guests to the very heart of Zagreb since 1929, has also won many awards over the decades for its services. It boasts its ideal location on Zagreb's main Jelačić Square, and with its 214 rooms and eight suites, it guarantees guests experience a warm, friendly environment, Zagreb's

traditional charm, and an opportunity to feel the beat of the dynamic capital.

Recently, the renovation of all double rooms was completed, and they are now furnished with high-quality anatomic beds with leather headboards, and they have been designed for maximum comfort and functionality.

The city's main attractions, important cultural and economic institutions, the shopping zone, and many other interesting features are located just steps away from the hotel. With total comfort, culinary delights, and superb service, you will feel right at home at the hotel, while also experiencing the best the city has to offer. Whether you are organizing a conference, seminar, or some other event in Zagreb, Hotel Dubrovnik is the right place. Modern, multi-functional halls with a variety of capacities, bathed in sunlight, equipped with sophisticated technology and built-in air conditioning offer different possibilities, depending on your needs and desires. Located in the very heart of Zagreb, with a fantastic view of the city, they are suitable for all types of events, and the hotel's friendly and professional staff can help you organize everything you need. In the elegantly furnished halls, with an abundant spread of food and beverages, and highly professional staff with a lot of experience in organizing many local and international events, every one of your events will be simply wonderful. 

Hotel Dubrovnik Ljudevita Gaja 1 10000 Zagreb, Croatia  +385 1 4863501 / 503 info@hotel-dubrovnik.hr reservations@hotel-dubrovnik.hr

www.hotel-dubrovnik.hr

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Historical traces

ZAGREB

Prepared by: Željka Kunštek Photos: Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

The Zagreb Zoo W

ay back in 1925, the Zoo, designed by civil engineer Mijo Filipović, was opened in the more than 200-year-old Maksimir Park, which is to Zagreb as Bois de Boulogne is to Paris, Tiergarten is to Berlin, or Regent's Park is to London. It was opened on Swan Island, next to the first Maksimir Lake, and its first inhabitants were two owls and three foxes. Two years later, a need to expand it arose, and the zoo stretched to a total of 7 hectares of land, which is the area it covers today. In contrast to the small number of original inhabitants, today more than 300 species of animals, and nearly eight thousand mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates from nearly all the continents live there. The zoo is a favorite place for the people of Zagreb, particularly the younger ones, to rest, relax, and have fun, especially on weekends. All year long, fun educational programs are held there for children and parents, along with thematic programs focused on ornithology, sustainable development, etc., and it is also a popular place to celebrate children's birthdays. When you get tired from walking, rest at the zoo restaurant, located right next to the pool where the lively sea lions play. While on your way towards the exit, stop by the well-stocked souvenir shop and have another unique experience - shopping in the company of real, live Madagascar turtles. 

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The Zagreb Zoo is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and it can also be toured with the help of a digital guide installed on a tablet.

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Events

ZAGREB COUNTY

Have a look at the program of events in the cities in the Zagreb County here:

The International Knight's Tournament of the Knights of Zelingrad; The millennial photo of the Jaska cup; Dishes served at the "What our Elders ate" festival.

The fun side of the green ring Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: Zagreb County Tourist Board, Zelina Tourist Board, Jastrebarsko Tourist Board

This summer, get to know Zagreb's green ring through sounds, colors, flavors, aromas...

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Explore Zagreb County

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BEAUTIFUL NECKLACE AROUND THE CAPITAL CITY

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Zagreb County Tourist Board Preradovićeva 42, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia  +385 1 4873665, info@tzzz.hr

www.tzzz.hr

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here is a reason the cities of the green ring that surrounds the Croatian capital are favorite excursion destinations. The idyllic, preserved nature is a perfect backdrop for an active holiday, and the combination of many cultural and culinary delights, and interesting events makes it the winning combination for a perfect excursion. Summer in the green ring will be marked with many events for all generations, and here we bring you just a few. June in Ivanić combines forty events in Ivanić-Grad, which guarantees an excellent time spent all month long with a plentiful entertainment program, exhibitions, sports tournaments, and fairs dedicated to food and tradition.

In the town of Sveti Ivan Zelina, the International Knight's Tournament of the Knights of Zelingrad (June 16) will be especially exciting, and it will take you back to the time of knight's battles, and take your youngest family members to a magical forest full of surprises, fairies, and dwarves.

The Harvest Festivities in Zaprešić (July 21) are an excellent opportunity to see how grains were once harvested, the tools the harvesters used, and the kind of food they ate. You can try it too, and

don't miss out on the flavors from the Vrbovec area and other parts of Croatia and neighboring countries at the touristculinary event "What our Elders ate", which is traditionally held in Vrbovec on the last weekend in August. Besides enjoying delicious dishes, you will also revel in the abundant entertainment, cultural and artistic program. Round it all off with a drop of great wine at the Jaska Wine Festivities in September. That traditional September wine festival in Jaska, a famous winegrowing region, promotes the wines and winemakers from that area. The entertaining program, exhibitions, sports events, and competitions in cooking kotlovina are just a part of the plentiful program that await you there. 

© Ivan Tibor Grujić / Samobor Tourist Board © Ivan Tibor Grujić / Samobor Tourist Board

Events

© Ivan Tibor Grujić / Samobor Tourist Board

© Romeo Ibrišević / Samobor Tourist Board © Ivan Tibor Grujić / Samobor Tourist Board

SAMOBOR

Rudarska greblica; The Samobor area is a popular excursion site; Cyclists are frequent visitors in Samobor and its surrounding area.

Two reasons to visit

Text: Željka Kunštek Photos: Samobor Tourist Board

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amobor, a charming town with French charm, located near Zagreb, the Croatian capital, is a favorite weekend destination for Zagrebians and a must-see site for many tourists who visit that part of Croatia. Amongst other reasons, for its many events.

Ever since 1985, on the first weekend of July, the town of Rude near Samobor is occupied by fans of Rudarska greblica, a savory cake made of cheese and walnuts that locals say tastes of the past. The aroma of greblica first filled their bread ovens in the 19th century, and it was most often eaten by miners who were employed in the nearby mines. Greblica was often their only meal during their entire day of hard work in the mines. If you visit Rude on July 7 and 8, 2018, at the 33rd Days of the Rudarska Greblica, besides enjoying that traditional cake, you will also find out the meaning of the cake's name, and have a great time with the planned program. In late 2007, the Croatian

Ministry of Culture proclaimed the preparation of Rudarska greblica intangible cultural heritage.

Cyclists also love the tame area surrounding Samobor, and they can choose from seven marked bike trails there. You can discover them, one by one, at the Samobor bike tour, which will take place for the third time in the autumn, just before the Day of the City (October 20). It is a great opportunity to enjoy a ride through the picturesque landscapes of Žumberak and Samoborsko gorje and to get to know more about the attractions the route passes by. The fact that Samobor is a popular cycling destination is proven by the fact that on June 17, the city will celebrate a quarter of a century since the first international XCO Samobor mountain bike race. The race is part of the Union Cycliste Internationale's calendar, and it awards points for the Croatian and Slovenian championship. 

© Samobor Tourist Board

There are many ways you can get to know more about Samobor, and we bring you two here - through flavors and by bike.

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City break

VARAŽDIN

A city for strolling The "capital city" of northwestern Croatia, famous for its culture of living, Baroque architecture, Špancirfest, and the picturesque Old Town, is a great choice for a city break. We bring you at least five reasons why you should visit it.

© Siniša Sović / City Tourist Association Varaždin

© Siniša Sović / City Tourist Association Varaždin

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Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: City Tourist Association Varaždin

1. Galleries, studios, and museums

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A walk through Varaždin's Baroque streets will take you to many galleries and studios. Satisfy your curiosity and duck into some of them. The K10 Gallery houses a collection of contemporary international pottery, at the studio of Darwin Butković, an unconventional artist, explore the relationship between painting and sculpting, and at the Zlati Ajngel Gallery, let yourself be surprised by the exhibition displayed there at the time of your visit (throughout the year, painting, sculpting, design, and photography exhibitions are displayed there). The Gallery Center will take you to the world of visual arts, while the 'World of Insects' Entomological Collection will introduce you to the fascinating world of bugs. Find out why Varaždin is called the "city where angels sleep" at the Museum of Angels, and then head over to the picturesque Old Town where the Cultural and Historical Department preserves the valuable collections of guilds, weapons, glassware, pottery, clocks..., along with about twenty rooms full of stories of the past.

Varaždin's courtyards also hide many interesting features and charming city secrets, so it is worth visiting those quaint corners of the city. The "Courtyard with a View" offers not just beautiful views, but also interesting installations. Feel the spirit of past times at "Julijan's Garden Museum", which celebrates the centuries of love the people of Varaždin have for their favorite mode of transportation - the bicycle. As its name says, the "Small, Sweet Courtyard" tells the story of small, sweet things that make life better. There you can also get handmade souvenirs and try your hand at making them yourself.

© Siniša Sović / City Tourist Association Varaždin

2. Varaždin courtyards

They say the pulse of every city is best felt at its market, so make sure to visit Varaždin's city market. Try and buy some local products, and the market is especially lively on Saturdays. Saturday is also a great day to see the changing of the guards - the Purgars, which starts precisely at 11 on Korzo (the main city square) in front of City Hall. Varaždin's Citizens' Guard is inscribed on the list of protected intangible cultural assets of the Republic of Croatia, and is the first military regiment to achieve that status.

Varaždin has always been known as a city of craftsmen, and the Square of Traditional Crafts will best show you its crafty side. Buy a unique hat at the milliner's, have a weaver show you how to turn thread into cloth, while the gingerbread maker will make your day even sweeter.

Discover the secrets of the trade of other craftsmen as well...

© Siniša Sović / City Tourist Association Varaždin

4. The city market and the Purgars

© Darko Gorenak / City Tourist Association Varaždin

© Siniša Sović / City Tourist Association Varaždin

3. The Square of Traditional Crafts

City Tourist Association Varaždin Ivana Padovca 3, 42000 Varaždin Croatia,  +385 42 210987 info@tourism-varazdin.hr

www.tourism-varazdin.hr

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© Siniša Sović / City Tourist Association Varaždin

VARAŽDIN

© Mario Knor / City Tourist Association Varaždin

City break

If you need just one reason to visit Varaždin, visit its many events that take place throughout the year.

If you would like to choose just one of the many of them, choose Špancirfest (August 17-26). Over the past two decades, the unique cultural tourism event has attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world to Varaždin, who enjoy the abundant program that, first and foremost, celebrates creativity and freedom of expression.

This year, when it will be held for the 20th time, come and see for yourself why Špancirfest was named the TOP event in Croatia in 2017. However, you can also come to the city of events earlier. After the 9th VAFI (May 28 - June 3), an international festival of animated films for children and youth, and the 17th Performance Days (June 7-10) when contemporary artists transformed the city into an intriguing cultural center, Varaždin is in the sign of the Applied Arts Week (June 11-17). During that week, you will have the opportunity to pop into the artist's studios and try your hand at making picture books, pottery, or unique jewelry. In the first week of July, duck into the mysterious city courtyards at the Varaždin Courtyard Festival. Enjoy yourself with artistic, entertaining, and educational activities in those intimate city oases. 

www.tourism-varazdin.hr © City Tourist Association Varaždin

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© Siniša Sović / City Tourist Association Varaždin

5. Events

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Your host in Varaždin

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n a peaceful location next to a park, just a few minutes away from Korzo, the heart of Varaždin, you will find Hotel Turist. The hotel, which has been the recipient of several awards, has comfortable, modernly furnished rooms, and five suites that guarantee a good rest after exploring Varaždin all day long.

Treat your taste buds to a bit of rest and enjoyment, since the culinary offering at the hotel is prepared by the kitchen staff in Croatia that has received the largest number of awards. At the cozy

PROMO

hotel restaurant, enjoy the flavors, colors, and aromas of traditional dishes from Varaždin from the Golden menu, or try one of the international dishes prepared by the culinary geniuses there. If you would like to try your hand at preparing them yourself, the hotel offers a cooking course. The hotel is also a well-known congress center in the Croatian interior, and is an ideal place for team building programs and for organizing various events. 

Hotel Turist Aleja kralja Zvonimira 1, 42000 Varaždin Croatia,  +385 42 395395 marketing@hotel-turist.hr

www.hotel-turist.hr

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

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ou will notice the influence of ornate Baroque at every step in Varaždin, but also on plates in its restaurants. Still today dishes in Varaždin exude hedonism, and they even became famous in high society in France. So it is no wonder that gourmets love to come to that northwestern part of Croatia to treat their taste buds to a feast.

There, chefs prepare creative dishes with a hint of tradition from fresh, local ingredients, carefully grown in the area surrounding the city. In the local restaurants, make sure to try typical dishes from the Varaždin area - Varaždin mlinci and klipič, štrukli, zlevanka, spicy dishes made with game, dishes made with poultry and vegetables, strudels, and homemade cakes made with leavened dough.

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© Željko Smešnjak / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

BJELOVAR-BILOGORA COUNTY

© Željko Smešnjak / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

Cultural tourism

The cultural gem of continental Croatia The natural legacy and rich cultural and historical heritage of the BjelovarBilogora area are a welcome way to rest from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Text: Petra Škofić Photos: Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

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The Ethno Park in Veliko Wooden sculptures Trojstvo; in the Svijetle pruge Park; The interior of a Roma house; The Matešin Gallery from above.

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he authentic ambiance of rural Bilogora settlements is like a hidden treasure for all those looking for a different summer vacation. The Ethno Park in Veliko Trojstvo, located just a ten-minute drive away from Bjelovar, the urban center of the county, is the first stop in exploring the harmonious relationship between rural architecture, cultural heritage, and natural beauty of the Bjelovar-Bilogora area. The museum with around a thousand artifacts from local ethno collections and an ethno household with an authentic Bilogora "hiža" (house) clearly depict the way people lived in the past. The authentic ambiance is also preserved in the Roma ethno house, the first one of its kind in Croatia and in Europe, which takes you on a journey through history, language

and customs, legends and myths, and the food and wine tradition of the authentic Croatian Lovari Roma.

The Bjelovar-Bilogora area has an artistic spirit, which the original Svijetle pruge Park bears witness to. A total of 43 wooden sculptures grace the forested roads of Bjelovar, Veliko Trojstvo, and Veliki Grđevac so fans of nature, cyclists, and others passing through that enchanting area can enjoy the quirky beauty of that art form in peace.

Follow the paths to the artistic heart of the area, the Matešin Gallery near Čazma. Besides showing the artwork of academic painter Franjo Matešin in their permanent exhibition, there you can also enjoy various cultural and social events, such as art exhibitions, concerts, movie projections, promotions...

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aC gor Bilo un r a a Co elov gor ić / Bj o v o l k j i a r B B © Štefan varBjelo šnjak / © Željko Sme

the Ginkgo biloba tree in Croatia. While the Janković castle stands as a symbol of opulence, in the middle of Moslavačka gora, there are ruins that take visitors back to the times when strong stone walls meant safety and protection. Today, with the romantic and somewhat mystical air amongst its ruins, Garić Grad, built way back in 1256, attracts cyclists, hikers, and walkers who bear witness to its former glory and beauty.

The Bilogora area is also the birthplace of one of the greatest Croatian writers, whose unforgettable stories have enriched the childhoods of every Croatian pupil for generations. Mato Lovrak was

Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board Dr. Ante Starčevića 8 43000 Bjelovar, Croatia  +385 43 221928 info@tzbbz.hr

www.tzbbz.hr

© Delimir Hrestak / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

© Štefan Brajković / BjelovarBilogora County Tourist Board

© Štefan Brajković / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

© Damir Bakarić / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

An unavoidable stop in exploring the cultural and historical heritage of the Bjelovar-Bilogora County is the 18th century Janković castle, built on land that the Habsburg Empress Maria Theresa gave to the family of Antun pl. Janković, and so set the foundation for the development of the modern city of Daruvar. There you will also find the Wine Salon, Count Janković Room, Room of Jewish Culture and Tradition, and the Homeland War in Daruvar exhibit. The castle is surrounded by a charming park designed by renowned Viennese architects, and it is also home to the largest and oldest specimen of

The Janković castle and the Ginkgo biloba tree; Garić Grad; The train from the famous Croatian children's novel "Vlak u snijegu" (The Train in the Snow); The mill from the children's novel "Družba Pere Kvržice" (Pero Kvržica's Gang).

born in Veliki Grđevac and the cultural center visited by children and adults all year long was built in his honor.

While there, everyone visits the mill from Družba Pere Kvržice and the train in the snow, which they all read about with delight, worry, and surprise, all evoked by Lovrak's skilled writing. 

urist Board t y To Coun a r rist Board o y To u ilog ount var-B ora C Bjelo / g ć o i l i v o ar-B rajk jelov nB vić / B efa skoko t Š © gU d ra © Pre

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Experience Croatia

POŽEGA-SLAVONIA COUNTY

Slavonia's golden trails Get to know more about the Požega-Slavonia area through superb local food and wines, and preserved nature that attracts fans of active vacations.

Text: Petra Škofić Photos: Požega-Slavonia County Tourist Board

Shish kebab with meat and vegetables; Grilled trout; Fish paprikash; Podolac beef roasted under the bell.

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he fertile Slavonian soil generously feeds every hardworking hand that cultivates it, so it is no wonder that in its rich past that area has attracted many cultures. Their influence has created the unique Slavonian tradition whose colors, flavors, and aromas best come into effect at the plentiful Slavonian tables. You will find the Hungarian influence in fish paprikash, catfish perkelt, and satarash, and Turkish in cabbage rolls, vineyard ćevapi, and pear turšija. Slavonian cracklings, homemade lard, sausages, and kulen are famous far and wide, and it is impossible to imagine a Slavonian table without čobanac, chicken soup with liver dumplings, tačkrle, and dumplings, along with warm homemade bread.

While enjoying the Flavors of Golden Slavonia project, pamper your taste buds with those Slavonian culinary treasures in fantastic centers of hospitality: the Omanovac excursion site and Hotel Pakrac in the city of Pakrac, Zlatni Lug, Vila Stanišić, Grgin Dol, and Stari Fenjeri in Požega, Čiča Mata in Velika, Klas in Pleternica, and Schön Blick in Vetovo.

The fertile golden valley or Vallis Aurea, as the ancient Romans called it, is also well known for its long tradition of wine growing, which is carefully cultivated on three wine roads united under the name Slavonian roads. On the Požega-Pleternica wine road, also known under the romantic name of the Road of Roses and Wine, they grow grapes that produce the heavenly drops of Graševina, Pinot gris, Sauvignon, Chardonnay... The Kutjevo wine region, the wine capital of Croatia, proudly boasts an 800-year long tradition, and its seductive flavors were also irresistible for Empress Maria Theresa and Baron Franjo Trenk, when they enjoyed a passionate embrace in the oldest wine cellar in Croatia.

Besides offering the finest domestic wines, the Pakrac wine region also offers various activities for fans of active vacations. Along with fantastic food and wine, active tourism is one of the main features of the Slavonian region. The sunny valleys and picturesque hills of that area are crisscrossed by 293 km of

national and 886 km of county bike routes, and gpx reports have been made for each of the routes, and all information regarding the cycling offer can be found at www.tzzps.hr/bike, where you can also find travel arrangement packages conducted locally by agencies specialized in cyclotourism. The serious approach and hard work the local community invests in that project is seen in the professionally designed interactive maps of cycling and hiking trails, available on the website of the PožegaSlavonia County Tourist Board, as well

as on the Panonia Tour mobile app. As of this year, the PožegaSlavonia region has been enhanced with two new camp sites, designed for all those who seek refuge in untouched nature.

The Duboka Camp in Papuk Nature Park is seamlessly connected with the main hiking and cycling routes in the park, and the Zlatni Lug Camp, near Požega, is located next to a country estate where you can fish, play mini soccer, try your hand at archery, walk down marked paths, and visit the farm animals on the estate. 

Download the Panonia Tour app with cycling routes in the Požega-Slavonia region and plenty of other useful information here:

A sweet strudel; Both professionals and recreational athletes enjoy cycling in the valleys of Požega-Slavonia.

Požega-Slavonia County Tourist Board Županijska 7, 34000 Požega, Croatia  +385 34 290262, kontakt@tzzps.hr

www.tzzps.hr

tradicije

Z L AT N E S L AVO N I J E F L AV O U R S O F C R OAT I A N T R A D I T I O N

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UNESCO

KLAPA SINGING Klapa Cambi - Neprolazna (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

© Scardona, www.scardona.hr

Klapa singing

Text: Željka Kunštek

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hichever part of Dalmatia you choose for your vacation, be it on the coast or on the islands, you will hear klapa songs. It will spread through the squares, promenades, stone streets, taverns, and acoustic area you pass by. At many destinations, there will be entire evenings dedicated to that traditional polyphonic singing style, which is most often performed without the accompaniment of instruments, and the performers are men of various ages. That unique singing style formed in the middle of the 19th century in the folk levels of society, and over time it developed so much that today, along with the traditional (folk) klapa, there are also festival, and contemporary, modern klapa singing.

In December 2012, klapa singing was recognized as a part of extraordinary global heritage and was inscribed on UNESCO'S Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The Festival of Dalmatian Klapa, established in 1967 in Omiš, greatly contributed to the popularization of klapa singing. Initially, in the 1960s, there were fifteen registered klapa groups, and now there are more than 400, which shows the great promotion the festival in Omiš did for that form of music.

The traditional klapa can be recognized for its a capella vocal performance, while singing with the accompaniment of a mandolin and guitar is typical for festival klapa, and recently, in modern times, with the accompaniment of electronic instruments. Still, all three types of klapa music have something in common - they sing of love. Recently, female klapa singing has also grown in popularity, and along with Dalmatia, the birthplace of klapa singing, the cities of Zagreb and Rijeka have also become centers of klapa singing due to the large number of klapa groups and the quality of their singing. 

Kl na

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CULTURAL SCENE

Tony Cetinski

CULTURAL SCENE

Living a dream in Istria

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Tony Cetinski is one of the most popular Croatian musicians, and has been on the music scene for 27 years. The fact that he is one of the best Croatian male singers was proven by his performance with famous tenor José Carreras, with whom he recorded a duet, and the famous Michael Bolton also invited Tony to join him on stage in London's Royal Albert Hall.

Conducted by: Vlatka Vužić Photos: Paolo Gentilini / Hit Records

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ou were born and raised in Istria, and after 25 years of living in Zagreb, you have returned to Istria. Is it also your "terra magica"?

Of course, not only is it my magical place, but I would dare to say it's where I'm destined to be. Somehow, everything led to returning there, and looking back now, I think it was the best decision. There I am calmer, more creative, and simply freer.

Your birthplace Rovinj has developed into a true gem of Istrian, but also Croatian tourism.

How different is current-day Rovinj from the one you grew up in? Do you have a favorite corner, and does it still look the way it used to?

True, today Rovinj is one of the most successful Croatian travel destinations.

Many things have changed, but some have not. Without revealing my

CULTURAL SCENE Tony Cetinski - Kao u snu (OFFICIAL 4K VIDEO)

Tony has won the Porin, the most respected musical award in Croatia, several times. He represented his country at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994 with the song "Nek ti bude ljubav sva". In April of this year, he released his 12th studio album "Kao u snu".

Toni Cetinski Official YT © Hit Records 2018.

"corners", I'll say that the city I love today still has places that remain untouched, which evoke memories, make you smile, and cry a tear or two when you see them.

At the big concert in Zagreb where you promoted your new album, you said that you weren't even aware how much you would miss it. What do you love about Zagreb?

Zagreb has a special vibe, and habits that are easy to get used to. I will miss some small rituals that became a habit, and some places I'm fond of. On the other hand, Rovinj and Zagreb are close, and I often visit the capital for business, so then I make up for those Zagreb habits and I see the dear people I really care for.

You are known for being an excellent skier. What is important for you when choosing a ski destination?

Do you water ski?

Haha, I'm not crazy about waterskiing. I have tried it, but it's not my thing. When choosing a ski destination, the different slopes and skiing opportunities are the most important. I don't really care about the accommodations or distance.

I only care about the slopes, so that I can get really tired and have a great time.

You have many concerts coming up throughout Croatia and the region. Tell us about a few destinations where your fans will be able to hear you.

True, and I'd like to take this opportunity to once again thank everyone for supporting me, thanks to my crew, my band, my associates, and Hit Records, without which

Would you like to win a Tony Cetinski "Kao u snu" CD? Write us why and send your answer to contest@tiptravelmagazine.com The authors of the two most original answers will receive an album as a gift.

this new album "Kao u snu" (Like in a dream) wouldn't be possible.

The promotion started with an incredible performance on Zagreb's packed Ban Jelačić Square, which continued with a two-day concert spectacle in Belgrade and then in Budva and Brežice, and July 27 in Opatija, on its Summer Stage.  June - August 2018

CULTURAL SCENE

Your music career has taken you many kilometers through Croatia, the region, and the world so that you could perform in front of your audience. What kinds of

destinations do you choose in your free time - a city break, or do you prefer holidays in nature?

Nature is always my choice and what relaxes me. After all the kilometers I have travelled and all the cities I have visited, thanks to the people that have followed me and supported me in my work for years, when I have time off, I always seek peace, relaxation in nature, surrounded by family.

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News and announcements

WORLD

New York's stores, cafés, and pubs take care of luggage

According to the newest research conducted by the Rome2rio travel planning website, Primera Air offers the cheapest cross-Atlantic flights, while Ryanair is the most affordable for flights all over Europe. The prices of economy-class flights offered by 200 airlines were compared and 24 of the 30 most affordable companies are from Asia and the Middle East.

The research also showed that over the past two years, due to growing prices of fuel and operational costs, the prices of flights have also grown, and passengers often have to pay additionally for services that used to be included in the cost of tickets, such as meals, beverages, and seat selection.

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© Luggage Hero © Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

The cheapest cross-Atlantic flights

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

© Ryanair

The Luggage Hero internet service has expanded beyond Copenhagen and London to New York. The service enables passengers to leave their luggage, for a fee of two dollars per hour, at one of the local cafés, stores, or hotels participating in the program, which is often more practical than renting storage places at train and bus stations or airports. By the end of the year, Luggage Hero plans on expanding its network in New York to several hundred more locations, and to several more cities over the next few years.

Chinese tourists are the biggest spenders According to data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) about tourist spending in 2017, most countries recorded an increase, and first place for the biggest spenders was definitely taken by Chinese tourists with 250 billion dollars spent. They are followed by tourists from the USA and Germany, while on the fourth and fifth place are Great Britain and France. The countries that recorded a significant growth of tourist spending were Russia, Brazil, and India.

Cities against mass tourism A total of 14 cities, mostly from Spain, united in a network of southern European towns against mass tourism.

SETNet has been organized with the goal of creating pressure on the public administration of those cities so that they manage tourism in accordance with social, economic, and environmental sustainability. They claim that large numbers of tourists disturb the lives of the local population by increasing traffic and high real estate prices, and they have suggested introducing various taxes, along with a series of socially and environmentally acceptable measures.

#GetNZontheMap

New Zealand's tourism video The humorous video created by the New Zealand Tourist Board has delighted the world. The main roles were taken by New Zealand's friendly premier, Jacinda Ardern, and comic Rhys Darby, and in it they discuss the "conspiracy" that is the reason for New Zealand being omitted from the world map. Amongst the "conspirators" is Australia, which wants to steal their tourists, and the wine industry, which is afraid of their superb wine.

They also launched the hashtag #GetNZontheMap.

The UNWTO on "smart destinations" UNWTO Conference on Wine Tourism

For the third consecutive year, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has organized a Conference on Wine Tourism, which will be held in Moldova's capital city from September 6 to 7.

Besides being home to the largest wine cellar in the world, Moldova is also the leading wine producer in the world.

The conference will bring together representatives of public institutions, destination management organizations, international organizations, and representatives of the private sector to discuss the challenges rural sustainable development faces and the role of wine tourism in advancing that development.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Spanish Ministry of Energy, Tourism, and the Digital Agenda, and the Principality of Asturias are organizing the second UNWTO International Conference on Smart Destinations, which will be held in Oviedo, the capital city of Asturias, from June 25 to 27. International experts from the tourism industry will discuss the effects of digitalization on destinations, technological solutions for monitoring those effects, the importance of new technology for sustainable development, along with internet security, and they will also present examples of destinations that best use the advantages of the digital age.

© lhw.com / Bauer Palazzo, Venice, Italy

© fotolia

© lhw.com / Kirini Santorini, Santorini, Greece

© 100% Pure New Zealand, www.newzealand.com/getnzonthemap

Venice fighting the crowds For years, one of Europe's most beautiful cities has tried to find a solution for the crowds created by millions of tourists. Mass tourism has become such a serious problem that UNESCO has threatened to take the status of world heritage site away from Venice. So, Venetian city officials have decided to set up fences on the main city streets to more efficiently control the flow of tourists. The local population has commended that initiative with the hope that Venice will turn to elite tourism instead of mass tourism.

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World

CAPPADOCIA (TURKEY)

A land of beautiful horses and fairy chimneys Text and photos: Š Martina Dragojević Trcol

Monks Valley; The flight of hot air balloons above Cappadocia; Horses, one of the symbols of Cappadocia; The moon landscape consisting of tuff, hardened volcanic ash.

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CAPPADOCIA TURKEY

Imagine a landscape full of fairy chimneys and amazing rocks that hide many homes, mystical churches, and elaborate underground cities, and above that enchanting landscape imagine a lot of colorful hot air balloons slowly gliding through the sky. Then stop imagining it and come to Cappadocia, where everything you imagine comes true.

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World

CAPPADOCIA (TURKEY)

Hot air balloons above GĂśreme; Cappadocia's landscape with fairy chimneys; A cave boutique hotel in ĂœrgĂźp; The view from the living room of one of the homes in the rocks of their neighbor's home.

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C

appadocia, Persian for "the land of beautiful horses", is located in the heart of Asia Minor (present-day Turkey), and besides beautiful horses, it also boasts an incredible landscape, which it is famous for far and wide. That region of Turkey is rich in unique geological, historical, and cultural attractions, and true natural wonders - column-like fairy chimneys and unusual rock formations in which people have dug out their homes and churches and created entire troglodyte villages and underground cities. Today, they attract tourists from all over the world like a magnet.

It isn't easy to use words to describe that magnificent landscape that has been shaped for thousands, and even millions of years. Approximately 9 to 3 million years ago, the then-active volcanoes of the present-day Erciyes, Hasan, and Melendiz mountains scattered their volcanic ash over the area. Over time, under the influence of natural forces, the ash transformed into heterogenic tuff (hardened volcanic ash), and then for thousands of years, winds blew and rivers meandered through the area washing away material and creating one the largest erosions of all time that has created a geological wonder Cappadocia. The surreal, fairytale-like volcanic landscape of Cappadocia

eroded into a series of mountain ridges, valleys, spectacular pointy columns and formations that resemble minarets that they call fairy chimneys.

The first inhabitants in that area were refugees who dug out sanctuaries in the soft stone of those volcanic deposits for themselves and their animals back in the 4th century. After them, came monks who carved out churches, chapels, and monasteries in the boulders on the mountain cliffs, and decorated them with frescos. The early Christians also used those underground hideouts to hide from the Romans that were persecuting them.

Regardless of who lived in that area, when and why they arrived, the thousands of carved-out cells and caves became comfortable homes and proof that man truly lived with the natural surroundings he lived in. And he continues to do so.

Due to its geographical position in the interior and its altitude above sea level, Cappadocia has a continental climate with hot and dry summers and cold and snowy winters. It rarely rains, and the area is mostly semi-arid.

The mysterious underground cities Throughout history, Cappadocia held an important position because the Silk Road passed through it - the trade route that connected the East and the West, which was also the road monitored by the Arabian army when it advanced against the Byzantines. For that reason, from the 7th to the 12th century, the people of that area were in constant fear of the coming army and they came up with ways to hide from their attackers. The soft volcanic stone and soil in Cappadocia were suitable for digging and sculpting, and they could easily make a safe haven in them. The Christians who moved to the areas near the cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu dug out two large underground cities.

Besides them, other large cities such as Gaziemir and Özkonak, along with many smaller cities and villages, also had their "underground copies". Derinkuyu, the deepest underground city, is 12 stories below the surface, with more than 1200 rooms. During dangerous times it was a safe haven for more than ten thousand people. Kaymakli, the largest underground city, has eight underground floors and the same number of rooms. The sister cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli were connected with a 10 km long

underground road. The underground roads had a vast defensive network of traps at several levels. They were most often large circular stone blocks, which were used to block doors and close off tunnels if danger arose, along with holes in domes through which they could throw spears at their enemies.

Due to the large number of tourists that visit them on a daily basis, the large underground cities of Kaymakli, Derinkuyu, Gaziemir, and Özkonak are unfortunately, slowly getting damaged and deteriorating. However, in order to lighten the burden on them, recently several smaller underground cities, such as Çardak, were opened for tours.

The people of Cappadocia didn't just run underground every time an army approached, but instead they also carved out huge, impressive fortresses in the volcanic tuff hills and mountains, from where they defended their land and resisted the strong attacks of their enemies. The largest and most impressive fortresses are Uçhisar and Ortahisar - Roman castles carved in stone that look like labyrinths, and the fortress in Ürgüp. The view from the Uçhisar fortress is breathtaking, and it offers a view of the fairytale surroundings full of fairy chimneys and dwellings in rocks with niches for

The Uçhisar fortress; Doors with large round blocks were used to block passageways in underground cities and fortresses; A part of the exterior of the Uçhisar fortress; The aboveground portion of the under­ ground city of Çardak.

pigeons, around which residential houses were built. Altogether, it shows the harmony between the present and the past, and the traditional and the modern world.

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CAPPADOCIA (TURKEY) The 13th century Carikli Kilise church in the outdoor museum (it got its name for the footprints that are said to represent the last footprints Jesus left on Earth before he ascended to heaven).

The outdoor museum is the most visited site in Gรถreme, but also in all of Cappadocia.

The complex includes more than 30 churches and chapels that monks dug out in the rocks between the 9th and 11th century and decorated with frescos.

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The restoration of the Karanlik church, or Dark church, was very expensive so an admission fee is charged for tours to reduce the number of visitors and additionally preserve the frescos.

Churches and chapels in the rocks Cappadocia is rich with churches, chapels, monasteries, sanctuaries, and other holy places dug out of the volcanic rock, some of which stand alone, while others are part of a group. One of the most interesting groups of churches and chapels in the rocks can be seen at the outdoor museum in Göreme and in the village of Çavuşin which is home to a chapel with valuable frescos.

Churches and chapels throughout Cappadocia were often elaborately decorated with frescos that depict motifs from the life of Christ and his followers. Unfortunately, over time, they were ruined by those with different beliefs, and today they are being restored through the joint efforts of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Turkey and UNESCO. The Göreme National Park is located in a landscape of unusual volcanic rocks shaped by erosion in a dry climate. It is protected by UNESCO together with the historical sites carved out of the rocks in Cappadocia. The park area and the volcanic rocks are located in an area of nearly ten thousand hectares, and they cover the region between the cities of Nevşehir, Ürgüp, and Avanos, as well as the attractions of Karain, Karlik, Yeşilöz, Soğanlı, and the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. The area is bordered by volcanoes that affected the appearance of the area: Erciyes Dag (3916 m) on one side and Hasan Dag (3253 m) on the other side. The density of the many rooms, the more than 200 individual churches carved in the

rocks (many of which are decorated with frescos), and five troglodyte settlements and underground cities within the rocky formations make that area one of the largest residential cave complexes in the world. On the other hand, the beauty of the decorations of the Christian religious sites make Cappadocia one of the leading examples of post-iconoclastic period of Byzantine art. So that area is one of the first two sites (of all the sites in Turkey) inscribed on UNESCO's list of cultural heritage sites in 1985.

The Göreme outdoor museum is located about a kilometer uphill from the center of Göreme. It includes eleven monasteries with their accompanying churches or chapels in the rocks that are preserved better or worse, that are elaborately or simply decorated and painted, and most of them date back to the period between the 10th and 12th century. Today, wellpreserved dining rooms with tables and benches for dining can be seen at monasteries.

Once in the outdoor museum complex, by moving in a counterclockwise circle, it is easy to tour all the churches and monasteries within an hour or so. Make sure to stop by the most important museum church, Karanlik, or the Dark church, with incredible frescos. The biggest and the most beautiful church, Tokali Kilise, with many frescos, is located outside the museum area, just across the street from the museum exit. Of all the churches in rocks in Cappadocia, it houses the most beautiful frescos with events from Jesus' life.

Red-ochre decorations on the Dark church at the outdoor museum; Natural red-ochre colors were used to decorate the church; Walking through the outdoor museum in Göreme; Churches hide valuable frescos.

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Along the Ihlara Valley, there are 105 churches and around ten thousand caves and rooms carved into the rocks. Many churches in the valley were a secret and hidden from potential enemies under the guise of nature. Some churches weren't visible from the outside, and one was only accessible through the canopy of a tree.

A view of Uçhisar; A café on the Melendiz River and a view of a canyon in the Ihlara Valley; Monks Valley; A camel-shaped rock in Imagination Valley.

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Enchanting valleys There are more than 30 valleys in the Cappadocia area, and the most attractive ones with the best views and landscapes are Ihlara, Zelve, Avcilar, and Soganli.

The valleys hide forgotten churches and chapels carved into stone and nature that will leave you breathless. Walking, or trekking, is one of the best ways to experience their beauty. Those who find several hours of walking too arduous can ride a donkey or a horse, or a camel in some places.

The Ihlara Valley, the deepest gorge in Anatolia, is perfect for those who love trekking. Several hours of walking down the river banks offer a beautiful view of the gorge, the vertical cliffs, lush greenery, and openings and rooms in the rocks that humans created in times long past, which lead to an old previously hidden and now forgotten world.

The many valleys are also interesting

for their unusual rock formations and structures. Monks Valley or the Fairy Chimney Valley near Göreme is characteristic for its unusual mushroomshaped rock formations that are reminiscent of monks with their brown hoods, which is how it got its name. The fairy chimneys are up to 10 m in height and stand on their own or in groups.

In Imagination Valley, or Devrent Valley, the rocks and fairy chimneys have taken the form of animals. Love Valley got its name from the legend of two young people who came there to celebrate their love, and upon looking at the valley, it is clear why it got that name. Dove Valley is a gorge near Uçhisar where many nests and niches are carved for doves which the former inhabitants loved a lot. Feeding doves with seeds are an attraction for visitors, and photographers have the chance to take truly artistic photos with doves flying in the foreground and Uçhisar in the background.

Rest stops on the Silk Road Cappadocia sits on the Silk Road, a trade route that connects the East and the West, which caravans passed along. So, many rest stops (hans) were built there, some of which can still be seen today.

The most beautiful rest stop Obruk Gölü ve Hani or Obruk Han is currently being renovated, but despite that, its interior, which tells the story of the glory it had in the 13th century, can still be explored.

Behind the rest stop building is a nearly perfectly circular lake, which supplied caravans with water.

The town of Ürgüp is best known for its impressive stone architecture. Although it is small in size, it attracts hordes of tourists from all over the world with its pulsating night life and luxury hotels, many of which were built as a part of or near ancient rock settlements. It is a place that combines the old and new world and embodies the feeling of a lively city center. There you can also get souvenirs, and the most popular one is the Blue eye, which wards off curses, jewelry with the traditional Turkish semi-precious diaspore stone, hand-woven rugs, hookahs, Turkish coffee and tea, and famous treats, such as Turkish delight. If you buy dried fruit or nuts, you can roast them in large roasting machines in front of the stores, and the air is filled with the enticing aroma of roasted hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, pistachios...

Obruk Han and the lake behind Obruk Han; The interior of a han; Weaving rugs; The Blue eye that wards off curses is a traditional souvenir; Pottery, a traditional craft; Dried fruit and nuts, and a roasting machine.

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CAPPADOCIA (TURKEY) Traditional cave dwellings have been transformed into luxury hotels.

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Three beauties - the symbol of Ürgüp; A dish made with freshwater fish; A view from a hot air balloon in Monks Valley; Drinking coffee and tea is a tradition in Cappadocia and all of Turkey; Hot air balloons flying above Cappadocia; Making flatbread and pita bread; Dried fruit and nuts, spices, and treats; The dance of the dervishes.

Priceless experiences Cappadocia is a true treasure when it comes to the experiences that await you there. It is well-known as a paradise for gourmets, and an excellent place to enjoy Turkish dishes and wine. The menus of the restaurants there have the most diverse dishes with delicious freshwater fish, meat, eggplant, zucchini, the unavoidable kebab and ćevap and flatbread, along with Turkish delight, baklava, and the most diverse desserts with lively colors and flavors. Roasted lamb with local dry wine, accompanied by a performance by a local folk dance group, is part of the permanent offer at many restaurants, and tables must be reserved in advance during the season.

Cappadocia is also popular for its hotels in traditional cave dwellings. It is necessary to pay more for the experience of staying in such an ambiance than with standard hotels, but it is a unique and unforgettable experience. The most beautiful cave dwellings transformed into tourist accommodations can be

found in the towns of Ürgüp, Göreme, Güzelyurt, and Uçhisar.

Another expensive, but priceless experience is hot air ballooning over the legendary moon-like landscape of Cappadocia with a view of impressive mountain ridges, valleys, fairy chimneys, spectacular fortresses, and impressive villages carved out of the mountain...

Hot air balloon rides are a favorite tourist attraction, and balloons are a beautiful decoration in the morning sky above the towns of Ürgüp and Göreme.

At that time, several dozen, and during the season a hundred, balloons take off simultaneously, to greet the rising sun and to experience the moment when the first rays of sun wake up sleepy Cappadocia from a thousand years of sleep. While in Cappadocia, experience the mystical dervish dance (Muslim mystics), who whirl and in doing so go on a spiritual journey. Their spiritual Sema ceremony is a part of the dervish order established by Mevlana, and is an important part of Turkish history, tradition, and culture.

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World

CAPPADOCIA (TURKEY)

Traditional cave dwellings have also found their way to souvenirs; Tourist accommodations in the city of Avanos; A door in Avanos; A street scene in Avanos, which was the center of pottery making since the time of the Hittites.

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The entrance to the old city center of Avanos; A room in a traditional cave house; Selimiye mosque in Konya; Women selling scarves.

Past and present Today, Cappadocia is a living example of the interesting and harmonious coexistence of the old and new world, where modernization and industrialization still haven't repressed tradition. Many people there still live in their cave homes, where they lack absolutely nothing - they have televisions, cell phones, cars... and it is as if they don't want to leave the comfort of their traditional homes and replace them with new ones in modern, newly built residential buildings in recently constructed city neighborhoods. Still, over the past few years, many abandoned cave homes have massively become restaurants and cave boutique hotels.

Although the transformation trend has gained wind, everything is renovated in harmony with nature and the landscape, nicely and tastefully, where natural building materials from the area are used - tuff stone, the same kind of stone used to build the ancient dwellings.

Modern-day building material - plastic, glass, and metal, have been used as little as possible.

Although the homes in caves, villages, churches, and monasteries have still retained the fossilized appearance of the countryside in the Byzantine Empire, they are seriously endangered with the

combination of the effects of nature, and recently - with tourism. The erosion process that formed the column rock formations will continue in the future, and over time, some of the rock columns and fairy chimneys will disappear, while new ones will form. The risk that churches and traditional dwellings that are of great cultural value will disappear is constantly present, and cannot be avoided. Its advanced destruction due to mass tourism, vandalism, and the pressure of development will never be replaceable, and so it needs to be prevented. So, local authorities are investing great effort in protecting, preserving, renewing, and conserving Cappadocia so that future generations will also be able to enjoy that priceless natural and cultural treasure.

Although you need at least a week to thoroughly explore Cappadocia, even just a long day is enough to get an idea of what Cappadocia is all about. Besides the mentioned, unavoidable attractions, there are also many smaller, less-known churches and monasteries carved into the mountains. There are also many incredible walking trails through nature, unbelievable rock formations, spectacular caravan rest stops... They are all worth taking the time to leave the beaten tourist path and to head out on your own to explore them. ď ś

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World attractions

BANGKOK (THAILAND)

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The Amphawa floating market

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Bangkok is known not only for its temples, delicious Thai dishes, and chaotic traffic, but also for its marketplaces. The city literally lives on all kinds of markets. There you can buy anything and everything, while they also function as a place for meetings, socializing, lunch and dinner... There you will also find day and night markets, green and neighborhood markets, wholesale markets... Floating markets, including Amphawa, are extremely attractive, especially to tourists.

Food is sold and prepared on wooden boats that deftly glide through the canals. Feel like a local, put a straw hat on your head and barter and socialize, and like a tourist, eternalize those colorful scenes with your camera and buy a souvenir or two. Don't forget to try boat noodles (noodles cooked on a boat), the famous coconut ice cream, and crepes and drinks made with coconut and other tropical fruit.

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World attractions

SAMARKAND (UZBEKISTAN)

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The Silk Road

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One of the most beautiful parts of the Silk Road is Uzbekistan, a country with old cities and incredible architecture, surrounded by landscapes of endless sand dunes that will tell you stories of caravans, traders, emperors, adventurers, and the others who travelled down one of the most famous trade routes in the world.

Experience Uzbekistan through its three gems - the cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, which will delight you with magnificent mosques, turquoise madrasah, and mausoleums and force you to keep your camera at hand.

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