Adriatic Express

Adriatic Express

Award-Winning Shore Excursion

Published by Adriatic DMC / November 2017

Which Croatian city is home to one of the best?

New Continental Croatia Bike Tour Explore the green heart of Croatia on 7- or 13-day routes

Luxury Small Ship Cruises

Perisa Boko shares his insights on growing sector

Julian Alps Named Top Spot in 2018 Find out who named Slovenia’s playground a must -visit region

YOUR REGIONAL DESTINATION SPECIALIST

YOUR REGIONAL DESTINATION SPECIALIST

Magellan award win

Dubrovnik’s Award-Winning Shore Excursion

Windstar Cruises’ Concierge Collection shore excursion ‘Dubrovnik Dinner at a local family village estate’ has been awarded a top prize at the 2017 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards.

Developed and delivered with destination management company, Adriatic DMC, the half-day excursion was awarded silver in the cruise liner expedition and shore excursion category at the travel industry award ceremony.

“When developing shore excursions in the Dubrovnik region for Windstar Cruises, we strive to deliver one thing above all; a bespoke, authentic and quality local experience.”

“Dinner at the Novakovic family home ticks all those boxes thanks to the family’s long history of working on the land and their in-depth local knowledge. The fresh local ingredients used in the dishes and of course, the opportunity to explore the gardens where they are produced, make the specialties the guests sample at dinner even more delicious.”

“Their wonderful host takes the time to explain each dish, its origins and associated traditions, all of which makes the meal not just a gastronomic experience but a cultural one too,” says Srdjan Kristic, Managing Director of Adriatic DMC. “

The annual Magellan Awards, organized by trade title, Travel Weekly, recognize the best in travel and salute the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.

“Our Concierge Collection of excursions are limited in group size and offer an even more intimate experience.

Adriatic DMC is the ideal partner for us to deliver this type of excursion in Dubrovnik thanks to their expert local knowledge, professionalism and commitment to local communities,” said Windstar Cruises’ Product Development Manager Melissa Witsoe.”

Sofia to Sarajevo DISCOVER THE BALKANS IN ONE TRIP

Ever wondered how to fit in as much of the Balkans as possible into a ten-day trip? Academic Arrangements Abroad’s tour on the theme of Ottoman art and architecture from Sofia to Sarajevo delivered just that, and all planned by Adriatic DMC. Operations team member, Matea Miloslavic, shares the details.

“The key here was planning a route that covered as many relevant sites as possible, with as little travel time in between.

“We settled on Bulgaria’s capital Sofia as the start point, a buzzing city where the Middle East meets Western Europe. The group headed to Macedonia where they visited capital Skopje, home to the largest bazaar in the Balkans, and UNESCO World Heritage Site and Europe’s oldest lake, Lake Ohrid.

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“In Albania, the tour continued to Tirana and the ancient city of Skhodra, dating back to the Bronze Age, where Rozafa Castle was besieged by the Ottomans in 1478.

“We arranged two special access visits; to the 16th century Karadozbegova Mosque and an Ottoman era home for incredible insight to the city’s Ottoman past.

“It was then time to make the journey to Montenegro’s coast and the beautiful Porto Montenegro in Tivat town. Here, the group discovered the medieval town of Kotor and enjoyed a scenic cruise along the magnificent fjords in Kotor Bay.

“It was then time to travel to the final destination of the trip: Sarajevo.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s beating heart, the capital delighted the group with its charming people, fascinating history and delicious cuisine. We arranged visits to the Gazi Husrev-Bey Mosque, the Moorishstyle Vijecnica (City Hall) and the Jewish Museum.

“A breathtaking coastal drive along the Adriatic coast took the group north and inland again to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Here, they were able to walk across the Stari Most bridge, an impressive example of Ottoman engineering and popular diving spot for fearless locals in summer.

“At the end of the trip the group was in raptures about the experience. It was a pleasure to be able to be a part of what was for many, a once in a lifetime trip.”

Balkan Ancestry Tour

Adriatic DMC’s first ever ancestry excursion was created for an American traveler who had chosen to visit the Balkans for her vacation and wanted to explore her family’s European roots while in the region.

BRINGING THE PAST TO LIFE

Prior to departure, Sandra contacted Adriatic DMC’s Ante Skracic, to ask if it would be possible to learn more about her Slovenian ancestry while on vacation.

Together with historian dr. Sc. Ivan Brlic, Ante arranged a trip to Sandra’s family’s home village of Gric pri Doblicah in southern Slovenia, just near the Croatian border. The tiny village of just 10 houses was explored by the group on foot and was a special moment for Sandra.

The group also visited the local museum in Crnomelj where they learned about the history of the city, surrounding areas and its people with help from guide Janez. And if that wasn’t enough, to make the experience all the more special for her, Ante took the extra steps to find out when her family left the area and where they resettled to.

Completely enthralled with the whole experience and the effort that Ante had gone to, Sandra’s positive feedback has confirmed that Adriatic DMC’s commitment to providing bespoke and quality local excursions shines through.

“This vacation has certainly been one I will remember for a long time to come. The effort that Ante went to, putting together my ancestry

tour, made the experience so special and I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to learn more about my ancestors”, said Sandra of her trip.

Medimurje’s renowned hot springs and also explores the magnificent wetlands of Lonjsko Polje and Kopacki Rit nature parks.

Croatia’s active holiday offer has expanded with the launch of a new bike tour program, Continental Croatia.

The fully supported route takes cyclists through the green heart of Croatia on either a 7- or 13-day itinerary.

Adriatic DMC Managing Director, Srdjan Kristic said of the launch, “From metropolitan Zagreb to medieval Karlovac, continental Croatia’s towns and cities have architecture that will amaze and fascinating pasts. The rolling green hills of Zagorje and its quaint villages offer a unique insight into life as it once was while the region’s nature parks offer incredible vistas and wildlife galore.

This new bike tour from Adriatic DMC takes travelers through the heart of green Croatia, calling at lively cities, historic towns, quaint villages, and breathtaking parks in the continental mainland.

Continental Croatia Bike Tour Launches

Travelers will get the chance to sample renowned Croatia wines, taste delicious authentic local dishes and stay in quaint villages surrounded by picturesque nature. The route visits famous sites such as Trakoscan Castle,

“Our first bike tour had to be something special and that’s why we chose this region. While the Adriatic coast and islands are incredibly popular with tourists, continental Croatia is a gem waiting to be discovered. I’m thrilled that we’re able to offer tour operators such a wonderful program that explores this green region and look forward to welcoming our first group.”

Ad r i at i c E x p re ss / N ove m b e r 2017

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YOUR REGIONAL DESTINATION SPECIALIST

CRUISE NEWS

Danube Cruises Reveal Hidden Gems For those who like to fill their vacation with historical and cultural sites as well as unique experiences, a river cruise offers the opportunity to do just that, calling at some of Europe’s most well-known cities as well as lesser known gems.

A cruise along the Danube River is possibly the perfect balance of the two.

Calling at famous cities such as Budapest and Vienna, in addition to the not so famous Vukovar in Croatia, and Belgrade and Novi Sad in Serbia.

Luxury Small Ship Cruises Increasing in Popularity Leading destination management company, Adriatic DMC reports an increase in the popularity of small ship cruises on the southern Croatian Adriatic coast in 2017.

Company director Perisa Boko believes the trend is due to a number of factors, “Croatia’s popularity as a destination shows no sign of waning and with it comes the demand to see the country from a different perspective.

We’re experiencing a ‘Keeping up with the Jones’ driver, if you will.

“An Adriatic cruise offers travelers the opportunity to see many different parts of the

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southern Dalmatian region with great ease and incredible vistas. It’s an easy yet memorable way to see as much as possible in a seven-day vacation.

“Not only that but they serve as a brilliant add on to a Balkan land tour program. Something our groups are increasingly looking for is an offer that gives a mix of landscapes and experiences so combining the two is an understandably popular choice. “ The company’s range of small ship cruises includes routes with departures from Split and Dubrovnik on 7-night itineraries with both circular and one-way routes available.

“For a long time, Croatia was seen as a destination for the megarich on yachts or the large ocean liners only, but our small ship itineraries offer the chance to immerse in all the wonders of the Adriatic coast from an intimate and extremely comfortable boat with excellent service and experiences to boot.

“2018 will be our busiest year yet with new ships such as M/S Mama Marija and its deluxe cruises from Split and Dubrovnik expanding our offer, we’re expecting a bumper year in cruise bookings, “commented Boko.

Adriatic DMC offers shore excursions for companies operating Danube routes that call through Croatia and Serbia. Managing Director, Srdjan Kristic recognizes the importance of excursions that provide something a little different for a river cruises’ discerning passengers, “A guided walking tour of the port’s city is a staple excursion product but we also know that there are passengers who are hungry for more, who want to immerse themselves in local life or sample and educate themselves on local food and drink rather than just eating a meal in a restaurant.

“That’s why we’ve taken great care to put together tours that provide an insight to the cities, whether that be a record-breaking Vineyard near Vukovar, horseback riding in a beautiful forest park in Novi Sad or visiting the National Theatre in Belgrade to enjoy a private backstage tour and operetta concert.

“We offer a true variety of experiences in each port so whether the passengers are food centric travelers, adventure enthusiasts or culture vultures, there’ll be at least one that suits them,” said Kristic.

Regent Porto Montenegro Opens New Wing

Croatian cuisine has an excellent reputation which has been cemented by the country’s first Michelin star, awarded to Monte restaurant in Rovinj, Istria. This region of Croatia is well known for its gastronomic delights with specialties such as white truffles, olive oil and fantastic wines all receiving international recognition. Owned by husband and wife team, Danijel and Tjitske Djekic, Monte uses fresh local ingredients from Rovinj market to produce creative and clever dishes with intense flavors.

Porto Montenegro’s luxury accommodation offer has grown thanks to the opening of Regent Porto Montenegro’s Aqua Wing this month. The 62 news suites offer stunning views over the Adriatic Sea and are equipped with full-size kitchens and living quarters. Guests have access to four pools and can take advantage of amenities at the hotel’s main building, the Venezia Wing, which offers a gym, spa, infinity swimming pools and meeting facilities.

DESTINATION DIARY

First Michelin Star for Croatia

ZAGREB TOP TIPS Dragana Kristic Pogarcic, Account Manager at Adriatic DMC shares her favorite spots in Zagreb, Croatia’s lively capital city.

Where do you like to go for coffee?

When it comes to coffee, there’s only one place to go; Cvjetni Trg. It’s a popular and lively square lined with flower stands and lots of coffee bars from which you’ll be able to do plenty of people watching.

Do you have a favorite restaurant?

Restaurant Lanterna near Dolac market is a great place for lunch. It has delicious home cooked dishes and a wonderful cozy atmosphere.

Julian Alps Named Top Region in 2018 Travel guide publisher Lonely Planet has named the Julian Alps in Slovenia as one of the top regions in the world in its Best in Travel list for 2018. The travel bible cites, “With the natural appeal of Chamonix or Zermatt – but with fewer crowds – the Julian Alps offer mountain bliss in an overlooked corner of Europe.

“Thanks to two thirds of the region being protected by the Triglav national Park mandate, you’ll find the region almost completely unspoiled. What are you waiting for?

Best place for drinks?

In the evening, I like to go for drinks on Tkalciceva Ulica, probably the most visited and liveliest street in all of Zagreb. The Mali Medo tavern there has a great selection of beers and even serves food.

Zagreb’s coolest museum?

The Museum of Broken Relationships has to be one of the most interesting in Europe and is well worth a visit. For something more traditional, Atelier Mestrovic showcases works from Croatia’s most renowned artist, Ivan Mestrovic.

And finally, where to go for something different?

My top tip is to make the 45-minute journey to Medvednica Nature Park.

It has incredible scenery and breathtaking views of Zagreb. You can go hiking or bike riding on one of its trails or just enjoy a picnic in beautiful nature.

Ad r i at i c E x p re ss / N ove m b e r 2017

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YOUR REGIONAL DESTINATION SPECIALIST

COMPANY NEWS

Adriatic DMC Wins Prestigious Croatian Tourism Award

Adriatic DMC has been awarded a ‘Tourism Flower – Quality for Croatia’ award at the Croatian Tourism Days conference organized by the Croatian Ministry of Tourism, the Croatian Tourist Board and the Croatian Chamber of Economy.

The Dubrovnik-based DMC won third prize in the mid-sized DMC travel agency category at the 21st edition

of the conference which recognizes the country’s best hotels, marinas, DMC travel agencies, camps and restaurants.

Commenting on the win, Sales and Marketing Director, Perisa Boko said, “It’s an honor to be recognized by the Croatian Tourism Days’ organizational committee for our hard work and commitment to delivering

quality and authentic travel products in Croatia.

“As Croatia becomes an increasingly prominent tourist destination it’s crucial that we ensure the products, services and experiences we provide for visitors match the high quality of all our stunning natural landscapes. The entire team at Adriatic DMC strives to deliver the best, most authentic travel products to

visitors to Croatia whether it be on a luxury small ship Adriatic cruise, a land tour or MICE trip.”

Croatian Tourism Days takes place over two days bringing together business leaders, politicians and tourism experts for a series of round table events, workshops and presentations.

Pave Zupan Ruskovic Wins Lifetime Achievement Award Adriatic DMC Senior Advisor Pave Zupan Ruskovic, has been an honored with a lifetime achievement award by Zagreb Tourfilm Festival for her work in Croatian tourism.

Ms. Zupan Ruskovic received the ‘Tourism promotion- a way of life’ prize at the festival’s award ceremony held at the grand Esplanade Zagreb Hotel on Friday 18 September.

Commenting on why Ms. Zupan Ruskovic was selected to receive the award, Luka Benko, Director of Legal and General Affairs, Zagreb Tourist Board, said, “Due to her extraordinary contribution to the tourism of the Republic of Croatia, especially by promoting it as a tourist destination, we decided to award Mrs. Pave Zupan Ruskovic the Lifetime Achievement Award. “ A highly valued member of the team at Adriatic DMC, Ms. Zupan Ruskovic is responsible for providing input and actionable practical guidance on a broad range of strategic and operational aspects of business. Ms. Zupan Ruskovic’s 50

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years of experience in the tourism industry bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the business that is invaluable.

“It’s an honor to receive this award and be recognized as taking part in Croatia’s development as a tourism destination. It’s come a long way in the past 20 years and has so much potential.

I have worked my whole life in this industry and have been lucky enough to be involved in many fantastic projects, and hopefully there are still many more to come for Croatia,” said Ms. Zupan Ruskovic of her award.

“There are very few people more deserving of the prize, and I’m confident it won’t be the last time the importance of her work is recognized.

Everyone at Adriatic DMC values her contribution and we look forward to future endeavors together,” commented Adriatic DMC Managing Director, Srdjan Kristic.

EXCELLENT EVENTS

Folklore in a Fortress Passengers of Windstar Cruise’s Star Legend were lucky enough to visit Dubrovnik’s 15th century Revelin Fortress recently.

A magnificent medieval fortress, Revelin is a stunning venue for a live music performance thanks to its rich history, excellent acoustics and both indoor and outdoor space.

On arrival, guests were welcomed with a traditional liqueur aperitif and then enjoyed a cocktail hour with appetizers prior to the performance; the perfect introduction to authentic local gastronomy while taking in the historic fort.

As destination specialists, Adriatic DMC knows best how to marry venue, group and event which is why it called on local folklore ensemble FA Lindjo to perform for the guests. The music, songs and dances performed by the Dubrovnik-based ensemble go back hundreds of years (much like the fortress) and represent authentic Croatian culture in a way that few other things can.

Among others, FA Lindjo performed its most famous dance the ‘Dubrovnik Poskocica Lindjo’, a group dance with a master who calls out instructions to the dancers.

A shore excursion with authentic Croatian culture, delicious local food at a breathtaking venue, what more could you ask for?

Unique Concert on Montenegro’s Most Beautiful Island Without a doubt, the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks in Kotor Bay is Montenegro’s most beautiful island. Lying just off the coast of the historic Baroque town of Perast, the islet is manmade, the product of sailors leaving rocks in its spot as a sign of gratitude following a safe return home.

Adriatic DMC had the pleasure of a creating a truly unique event for Viking Cruises’ passengers who were whisked away to the tiny island for a private concert and champagne.

The short boat ride from Perast offered sweeping views of the world-famous bay and Montenegro mountains. Here, the group enjoyed a champagne reception in front of the historic Roman Catholic church that shares the same name as the artificial islet, before stepping inside for a private acoustic guitar concert by renowned local artists, Srdjan Bulatovic and Darko Nikcevic.

Sales and Marketing Director, Perisa Boko, said of the event, “Srdjan and Darko may be locals in Montenegro but they are world class artists. They recently performed at Carnegie Hall in New York for two nights, such is the demand to hear them live. We’re delighted to offer such a unique and exclusive concert experience for Viking’s guests and continue to strive to deliver such fantastic excursions.”

Ad r i at i c E x p re ss / N ove m b e r 2017

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About the publisher Adriatic DMC is a leading destination management company based in Croatia offering authentic travel programs for discerning travelers to the region.

It specializes in crafting group and bespoke excursions, land tours, cruises, MICE travel programs and logistics support in Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Serbia and Macedonia.

Born out of 25 years of experience in the travel industry in this region, the company has grown from a travel agency to a leading regional DMC. It’s Adriatic DMC’s mission to continue delivering sustainable, inspirational travel experiences that are locally sourced and exceed clients’ expectations every single time.

The team’s knowledge and passion for travel, and the region it calls home, shines through every bespoke itinerary, seamless ground operation, and immersive tour and cruise program delivered. Always in tune with clients’ needs and market trends, Adriatic DMC continues developing innovative, flexible programs while enhancing traditional travel products. The team works diligently to design value and quality based programs to the finest detail around your interests, budget and timelines.

Adriatic DMC is the ideal travel partner for those who are looking to work with an expert DMC committed to delivering quality and creating excitement in Croatia and the Balkans.

If you’d like to learn more about how Adriatic DMC can help you to deliver authentic and quality travel programs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Adriatic DMC | Dr. Ante Starcevica 45 | Dubrovnik 20 000, Croatia Tel: +385 20 400 586 | Email: adriatic@adriaticdmc.hr

www.adriaticdmc.hr