tip Travel magazine Croatia 020 (English edition) 09-11/2017

ISSN: 1849-059X

EN

Number 20 • Year V • September - November 2017

INFORMATION • RECOMMENDATIONS • EXPERIENCES

Issue topic:

Autumn in continental Croatia Down the path Zagreb, Zagreb County, Bjelovar-Bilogora County, Požega-Slavonia County, Nedelišće

of mystical stećci

Dubrovnik-Neretva County

Bruges and Ghent Belgium We're taking you to...

Baška Voda: A top destination in central Dalmatia • Krka National Park: The Legend of the Krka • Vodice: Vodice's autumn guarantees a good time

UNESCO:

Mediterranean cuisine

Digital travel and tourism magazine www.tipTravelMagazine.com

Get ready for an exciting journey and find out why the magazine is read in more than 120 countries worldwide.

Traveling is even more interesting with tipTravel magazine!

© fotolia

TIpS FoR A RESpoNSIBLE TRAvELLER #travelenjoyrespect

International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development To mark the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) issued a promotional video and manual "Tips for a Responsible Traveller".

See them here.

IY2017 Travel.Enjoy.Respect. (English)

© World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

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.

On iOS devices (iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch), the magazine can be downloaded free of charge in the AppStore, where the application has additional interactive features to enable an even higher quality reading experience. To find it, simply type in 'tiptravel' in the AppStore.

The importance and quality of tipTravel magazine in the online promotion of Croatian tourism has been recognized and recommended to readers, tourists, by:

When you come across the App Store or Google play icon, you can download applications by clicking on them.

The users of the tipTravel magazine iOS Newsstand application also have two exclusive additional interactive features:

enlarging certain photos across the entire screen (full screen preview)

interchanging multiple photos (slideshow)

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tipTravelMagazine September - November 2017

tipTravel magazine bears the Green Mark, the leading Croatian sign of excellence in green business, and was the winner of three prestigious Croatian Creative and Innovative Sustainable Tourism Awards in 2014.

NEWSLETTER

EDITORIAL Travel and tourism magazine 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 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.

Associates in this issue: Mirela Drkulec Miletić, Petra Škofić, Vlatka Vužić Translator: Marija Crnogaj

Times of change

E

very season changes in its own way, and for us, this past summer brought about a truly great life change - the arrival of our newborn. It is also a time when priorities change, which our friends who have already experienced the joys of parenthood have told us countless times, which we now see for ourselves on a daily basis.

Still, some things will never change, and that includes the fact that we will continue travelling, now accompanied with our bundle of joy, and through our magazine we will continue to reveal the charms of many destinations, bring ideas for travelling and spending your vacation in Croatia and abroad, recommending events you shouldn't miss out on... all with the goal of continuing to travel, explore, and enrich your life with new experiences and by discovering new destinations. Or, if you haven't yet, to make the change in your life and - start traveling. We will gladly share the new experiences, discoveries, and tips we learn through our travels

as a trio in some of the future issues of the magazine.

Autumn is the time when the story of continental Croatia is truly special.

When the summer heat dies down, the number of events intensifies, fruits that locals carefully cultivated in their fields all year long ripen, and autumn paints nature bright colors, it is a joy to head out to explore new destinations. So, in this issue, we bring you tips for autumn trips to the continental heart of Croatia, but also to coastal destinations, which are especially attractive in the postseason. Find out why.

As far as foreign destinations are concerned, we present two Belgian gems - Bruges and Ghent, medieval cities near Brussels, which are worth a visit. Especially if you are a romantic at heart. Enjoy your autumn trips, the freshness, and positive changes that we are sure it will bring to your life. Željka and Robert Kunštek

Marketing: marketing@tiptravelmagazine.com Photo source: tipTravel magazine archive, archives of Croatian Tourist Boards, PHOTOnet.hr, fotolia Cover page: photo: Davor Rostuhar / Zagreb Tourist Board

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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Content

© Mario Žilec / Zagreb County Tourist Board

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb County Tourist Board

September - November 2017

© Damir Bakarić / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

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8-9 NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS - CROATIA 10-23 ISSUE TOPIC - Autumn in continental Croatia: All the colors of autumn

18-19 © Požega-Slavonia County Tourist Board

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

10-23

 Zagreb: In Zagreb's museums

(14-15)

 Zagreb County: Following

wooden beauties (16-17) A magical autumn in the vineyard (18-19)

 Požega-Slavonia County:

The irresistible flavors of Slavonia (20-21)

20-21 © Nedelišće Tourist Board

 Bjelovar-Bilogora County:

 Nedelišće: Give thanks for

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tipTravelMagazine September - November 2017

the autumn in Nedelišće (22)

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Environmentally Friendly

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

not a single tree has been destroyed in publishing this magazine

© Baška Voda Tourist Board

© Mario Romulić / "Krka National Park" Public Institution

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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24-25 HISTORICAL TRACES - Zagreb: The Golden Hall 26 GASTRONOMY - Zagreb: Štrukli 28 TIPS4YOU: Don't miss out...

30-31 LEGEND - Krka National Park: The Legends of the Krka 32-33 EVENTS - Vodice: Vodice's autumn guarantees a good time 34-35 EXPERIENCE CROATIA Baška Voda: A top destination in central Dalmatia 36-39 CULTURAL TOURISM Dubrovnik-Neretva County: Down the path of mystical stećci

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36-39

42-43 UNESCO - Mediterranean cuisine: The benefits of Mediterranean food

64-65 © fotolia

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

34-35 © DUNEA Regional Development Agency

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44 CROATIA THROUGH PHILATELY - Aromatic stamps: Rosemary 45 CROATIA ONLINE 46-47 CULTURAL SCENE Interview - Singrlice: Folklore in a modern form 48-49 NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS - WORLD 50 INTERESTING FACTS Croatia and the World 52-61 WE'RE TAKING YOU TO...

Bruges and Ghent (Belgium) Belgium's romantic side

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64-65 WORLD ATTRACTIONS New York (USA) 66 WORLD ATTRACTIONS Cappadocia (Turkey)

September - November 2017

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News and announcements

CROATIA

2017 Days of Croatian Tourism in Mali Lošinj

The Eurowings airline company announced an expansion of its winter flight schedule for 2017/2018, and for the first time included the Cologne-Rijeka line. Flights are on schedule as of November on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday on an Airbus A319.

So now, Eurowings connects Rijeka to its hub in Cologne all year long.

New flights can be easily and quickly reserved via the company's website or mobile application.

tipTravelMagazine September - November 2017

© Vjeran Petrović / CNTB

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

© Eurowings / Media Val

Eurowings connects Rijeka during the winter too

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© Marko Vrdoljak / Town of Mali Lošinj Tourism Office

This year, the traditional gathering of those working in Croatian tourism, the Days of Croatian Tourism (DCT), will be held on October 25 and 26, 2017 in Mali Lošinj. Every year, the DCT gather more than a thousand people, and this year, participants can expect interesting lectures, workshops and gatherings, including, amongst other topics, global tourism trends, the building of a national tourism brand, the role of national tourism organizations in the tourism system, and forecasts and estimates for tourism trends in the upcoming years.

CBS: In 2016, Croats spent 9.3 billion kuna on travel

National EDEN winner: "Vukovar - Vučedol - Ilok"

In more than 4.5 million trips in Croatia and abroad, Croats achieved a total of 27 million overnight stays, and spent 9.3 billion kuna while travelling in 2016. Of that, 6.5 billion kuna was spent on traveling for business, while 2.8 billion kuna was spent on business trips - according to an analysis by the Croatian Bureau of Statistics (CBS). Data shows that, on average, Croatian citizens achieved six overnight stays last year, spending an average of 2 thousand kuna per trip, which amounts to around 346 kuna per day.

The destination of "Vukovar - Vučedol - Ilok" has won the national competition for "European Destinations of Excellence" (EDEN) for 2016/2017 for the topic of "Cultural Tourism", which was conducted by the Croatian National Tourist Board. Along with the winning destination, other destinations vying for the title were "The City of Đakovo - Municipality of Gorjani", "Rural Konavle", "Smiljan - Gospić", and "Zagorje - A Fairy tale at Hand". The last round of the competition was held in Čakovec, where representatives from each of the five final destinations held closing presentations.

At the 41st session of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, Croatia had five cultural sites inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Three sites were inscribed as part of the nomination "Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe" in the North Velebit and Paklenica national parks. Two sites were inscribed on the Croatian nomination of Venetian Works of Defence between the 15th and 17th centuries - the defensive system of Zadar and the defensive system of Šibenik - upon the joint nomination by Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro.

Source:

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Fun Park Mirnovec opened

The first specialized hotel for divers opened in Istria The Premantura Resort, the first specialized diver-friendly hotel in all of Croatia, was opened in the town of Premantura on the Istrian peninsula.

The investment is worth two million euros, and the modern four-story building has five rooms and 11 suites with a total of 50 beds. The building has been classified as comfort, which is in line with the largest number of stars a classic hotel can be awarded.

Fun Park Mirnovec, the first thematic fun park in Croatia and the region, was opened in early August 2017 in Biograd na Moru, for fans of adrenaline and fun of all generations. Spread over the 45 thousand square meters of the park, there are plenty of entertaining games, souvenir shops, and an abundant offer of food and drinks, and shows and evening concerts are organized on a daily basis. Fans of video games and video consoles will have a great time at the Game Hall, the largest arcade of its kind in Croatia, which offers admission free of charge.

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

www.odrzivi.turizam.hr

© Dino Stanin / Pixsell / 404.agency

© Sky Action / Šibenik Tourist Board

Five new Croatian sites protected by UNESCO

Zagreb amongst the leading bike-friendly cities in Europe According to data from Euronews, Zagreb took sixth place on the list of bike-friendly European capitals, thanks to the 10.1 percent of inhabitants that use bikes on a daily basis as their main method of transportation and so contribute to sustainability and environmental protection. The European Cyclists' Federation has created an EU strategy for cycling with the aim of increasing the percentage of bicycles in transportation from 8 to 12 percent, and Zagreb is just shy of reaching that desired percentage.

Source:

www.odrzivi.turizam.hr September - November 2017

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Issue topic

AUTUMN IN CONTINENTAL CROATIA

© M ar Za ko V To g r e r d o ur b C l ist ou jak Bo nt ar y d

A motif of traditional wooden architecture in the Zagreb County.

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AUTUMN IN CONTINENTAL CROATIA Zagreb, Zagreb County, Bjelovar-Bilogora County, Požega-Slavonia County, Nedelišće

CROATIA

All the colors of autumn Text: Željka Kunštek

In Croatia, autumn trips are amongst the most beautiful. When the heat dies down, the delicious fruits locals carefully cultivated all year long in their fields and vineyards ripen, the cultural scene in the Croatian metropolis becomes even more dynamic, and many attractions, surrounded by all colors of the fall, invite you to explore, it's time to head into the continental heart of Croatia.

September - November 2017

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Issue topic

AUTUMN IN CONTINENTAL CROATIA

© Ivo Biočina / CNTB © Josip Škof / Zagreb County Tourist Board

© Josip Škof / Zagreb

Zagreb in its fall coat; The wooden chapels of Wounded Jesus and St. Peter and Paul in the Zagreb County.

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his autumn, explore Zagreb's museums, tour the wooden chapels of Zagreb's green ring, which are unique in the world, head down to the centuries-old wineries in the Bjelovar-Bilogora area and try superb wine and delicious delicacies that complement them, and leave some room for the well-known and highly regarded Slavonian specialties that await you at the long tables in the Požega-Slavonia area. At the end of that inspirational cultural, culinary journey, give your thanks to the autumn in Nedelišće...

Homemade bread in the PožegaSlavonia area; Horses at the Lipik State Stud Farm; A view of Daruvar's vineyards; Details from a vineyard; A colorful autumn harvest in Nedelišće.

© Nedelišće Tourist Board

© Požega-Slavonia County Tourist Board

© Damir Bakarić / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

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AUTUMN IN CONTINENTAL CROATIA: Zagreb © Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

Bruketa&Žinić / Zagreb Tourist Board

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

Issue topic

In Zagreb's museums Are you planning a trip to Zagreb and would love to spice it up with cultural delights? Duck into Zagreb's museums, which will draw you into their stories incredibly easily...

Text: Željka Kunštek Photos: Zagreb Tourist Board

The Museum of Broken Relationships; The Nikola Tesla Technical Museum; The Mimara Museum; The Egyptian mummy at the Archeological Museum.

In 2011, the Museum of Broken Relationships was awarded the prestigious Kenneth Hudson award for being the most innovative museum in Europe.

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lthough strolling through Zagreb's streets, squares, parks, and gardens is irresistible, Zagreb will also delight you when you head out to explore some of its many museums. Each one has a story of its own, and some have already gained global fame, such as the unique Museum of Broken Relationships, which is seen by nearly all who visit Zagreb. It is dedicated to broken, but not forgotten relationships, and it consists of a collection of various items and stories that marked the romantic relationships while they lasted.

The museum that bears the name of the world-famous scientist and inventor born in Croatia is the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum. One of its most attractive departments is the Nikola Tesla Demonstration Cabinet - there you can see experiments with reconstructions of the genius' most famous inventions built according to his original designs and patents.

You can even actively participate in some experiments. You can also find

tipTravelMagazine September - November 2017

out more about Tesla's life from a film that shows his experiments and at the museum, you can also see a rotating magnetic field, Tesla's high frequency transformers, a remotecontrolled ship, and Tesla's turbine, amongst other things. Have a look at the Astronautics department with a planetarium that houses models of the most famous spacecraft and rocketcarriers that show the beginning of astronautics, while at the planetarium you can see the starry sky from the North Pole to the Equator, at any time of night, and at any time of the year.

A museum that you definitely shouldn't miss out on in Zagreb is the Archeological Museum, which, amongst other things, holds the secret of Egyptian treasure. Have we intrigued you? It has an Egyptian mummy (also known as the Zagreb mummy), which also contains papyrus with text from several chapters of the Book of the Dead. Another must-see destination while you cruise through Zagreb's museums is the Zagreb City

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board © Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

© Marko Vrdoljak / Zagreb Tourist Board

Museum, where you will get to know more about the soul of Zagreb from prehistoric times to present-day. Make sure to visit the representative Art Pavilion, the oldest exhibition space in this part of southeastern Europe. It is a stage where exhibitions of artistic and cultural creation are intertwined.

You could also be intrigued by the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, which is assumed to be the first museum in the world dedicated to that form of art.

The collections at the Croatian Natural History Museum and Ethnographic Museum are especially interesting, while basketball fans will be sure to

visit the Dražen Petrović Memorial Center, which is dedicated to one of the greatest basketball players in Croatia and the world. Many visitors from all over the world know the address of Klovićevi Dvori Gallery on Zagreb's Upper Town. Several hundred thousand visitors visit its 30 exhibitions every year. See why for yourself. The Modern Gallery and Museum of Arts and Crafts are just a part of Zagreb's rich selection of museums that are worth a visit, along with several newer museums, such as the Museum of Illusions and Museum of Torture. 

The Zagreb City Museum; The Art Pavilion; The Museum The of Contemporary Art; Museum of Arts and Crafts.

From November 2017 to April 2018, don't miss out on the Nikola Tesla - Mind from the Future exhibit at the Meštrović Pavilion.

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

September - November 2017

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AUTUMN IN CONTINENTAL CROATIA: Zagreb County

© Mario Žilec / Zagreb County Tourist Board

© Mario Žilec / Zagreb County Tourist Board

© Romeo Ibrišević / Zagreb County Tourist Board

Issue topic

Following wooden beauties They are made of wood, picturesque, and unique in the world.

This autumn, tour wooden chapels and manors, čardaks and mills, scattered like pearls over Zagreb's green ring.

Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: Zagreb County Tourist Board

The Chapel of St. Barbara; A doorway of logs; The Chapel of St. Peter and Paul.

In order to create fertile fields, locals cleared forests, and in the Turopoljski lug forest after a larger clearing, as a symbol of the people's work, they would raise a doorway of logs - two wooden logs (today made of concrete), adorned with many details, and topped with a large wooden beam.

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t all started with wood, to be more precise, with oak - a famous inhabitant of the dense forests in the Zagreb County, the tame green ring that encircles the Croatian metropolis. So, it is absolutely logical that the people there have always been connected to the wood they used in daily life. Not only did they use it to build their homes, but they also made various useful items, and for them, wood also represented an incredible inspiration that resulted in true works of art - chapels, manors, čardaks - like you won't find anywhere else in the world, and today they attract the attention of every passerby and traveler. A total of 11 wooden chapels have been preserved, and the most representative example is the baroque chapel of St. Barbara in Velika Mlaka.

Its interior is a true gallery of works by domestic artists, and the chapel also keeps the rare iconographic depiction of St. Kümmernisse, the crucified, bearded

tipTravelMagazine September - November 2017

saint. You will also enjoy its exterior, which is complemented by a wooden čardak (parish court), with a veranda made of carved wood. It is also worth visiting the chapel of St. John the Baptist in Buševec, which was a pattern for the later construction of many wooden chapels in that area. The chapel is a treasury of rarely preserved true naïve art. If you arrive in Zagreb and the Zagreb green ring by plane, get your camera ready, because on your way you will pass by the chapel of Wounded Jesus, special for its decorative façade. Tour the other chapels as well, and take some time to tour some manors - wooden country homes of the wealthier population. Today, there are just a few that have remained preserved, the most famous one being the Modić-Bedeković manor in Donja Lomnica. Together with the estate that surrounds it, it is one of the most valuable examples of cultural heritage in construction in central Croatia, and is protected as a cultural monument.

© Mario Žilec / Zagreb County Tourist Board

© Antonela Marić / Zagreb County Tourist Board

© Josip Škof / Zagreb County Tourist Board

© Mario Žilec / Zagreb County Tourist Board

wooden architecture and not tour a mill. If you only have time to tour one, let it be Mlin and Mlinareva iža near the town of Jastrebarsko.

With the help of spring water and a millstone, that mill that dates back to 1890 still stands the test of time and tirelessly mills grain, just like it always has. Next to it is Mlinareva iža, the original miller's house where he used to live with his family. Maybe he still awaits you today on the 'ganjak', where guests were always received and tells you the incredible story about that area and living harmoniously with nature... 

A Čardak that acts as a parish court, next to the Chapel of St. Barbara; Details from the Chapel of St. Barbara; The Modić-Bedeković manor; The Chapel of the Holy Spirit.

Explore Zagreb County

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Walking through its rooms will take you back into the past and tell you about the country life of the Modić family. Pay attention to the floor in the foyer, made of stones from the nearby creek.

While travelling through the green ring, you will also see čardaks, houses that the locals raised up on columns due to the frequent flooding of the nearby rivers. Some of the most beautiful examples with carved verandas and stairways, which are also protected cultural monuments, can be seen in the area of Mraclin and Posavina. It would be a shame to tour valuable examples of

Most chapels can also be toured from the inside, with advance notice. Local people who ring the bells have the key, and their contact information can be found here:

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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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© Vladimir Vlajinić / BjelovarBilogora County Tourist Board

© Delimir Hrestak / BjelovarBilogora County Tourist Board

AUTUMN IN CONTINENTAL CROATIA: Bjelovar-Bilogora County

© Damir Bakarić / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

Issue topic

A magical autumn in the vineyard Visit family-run vineyards with centuries-old tradition and taste superb Bilogora wine.

Text: Mirela Drkulec Miletić Photos: Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

The view from the Daruvar Wine Road; Juicy grapes in the Bjelovar-Bilogora area produce superb wines; The Na malenom brijegu agricultural tourism.

Proof of the long tradition of cultivating grapevines, ever since Roman times, was found in one of the most beautiful archeological artifacts from Roman Daruvar - a glass wine goblet, called the Emperors Crown Cup (Vas diatretum Daruvarense). It was found in 1789 in the Roman ParkForest, and today is located in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.

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utumn is magical in itself.

However, when the dense forests and tame hills of the Bilogora region turn shades of golden yellow and red, it becomes magic that is hard to resist. Visit Bilogora, the area at the foot of the longest and shortest mountain range in Croatia, at that time. You will be awaited by irresistible nature, hills covered in vineyards and family farms where the friendly locals will offer you superb wine and selected delicacies. You will also find so much more there - excursion sites, spas, an abundant offer of options for an active vacation, centers of culture such as the cities of Bjelovar and Daruvar...

Vineyards have been cultivated in the Bilogora region since Roman times, and the winemaking tradition has stood the test of time to present-day. Nearly every family there has a vineyard, and many of them have invested their effort and winemaking knowledge into tourism. In those, smaller or larger, family-run wineries, you can taste the best wines paired with simple, yet incredibly delicious, homemade dishes.

At some wineries, you can even try your hand at harvesting grapes, which is a unique experience.

tipTravelMagazine September - November 2017

Down the wine road The Bilogora Wine Road meanders through the picturesque area of northwestern Croatia, through shaded forests of oak and beech trees, juicy orchards, and fresh meadows. If you follow it, you will come across many wineries and farms: the Vinia excursion site and winery, the Coner winery and restaurant, OPG Mihoci - Vrata Bilogore, Čačija winery, Kamenitovac mountain cabin, Romska kuća, the Pajdo hunting cabin, the Ethno Park in Veliko Trojstvo, the Na Malenom brijegu excursion site, and the Bilogorska čarolija rural vacation home.

If you head out towards the sunny slopes of Bilogora, Papak and Psunj, you will reach seven incredible locations on the Daruvar Wine Road: OPG Matej Kovačević, the cellars of Badel 1862 d.d. Daruvar winery in the Janković castle and at the winemaking sites in Donji Daruvar and Đulovac, Biogal dairy, OPG Voborski, Lotada winery, and the Queen café.

Stop and taste the superb, awardwinning wine from that area. One of the most famous is Bilogorska Graševina, a fresh wine with a full, rich flavor. Don't miss out on superb dry wines, such as

© Delimir Hrestak / Bjelovar-Bilogora County Tourist Board

Rhine Riesling, Chardonnay, Traminac, and Sauvignon. Bilogora's wineries also produce excellent red wines, such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Portugizac, and Frankovka. It is best to enjoy wines in the authentic ambiance of cabins and wine cellars, where the friendly hosts will teach you more about the art of making wine. Of course, homemade food pairs well with excellent wine. Primarily cheese, made of cow's milk or goat's milk, followed by dishes made with cottage cheese such as gibanica, buckwheat štrukli, various pies and tarts, etc. Delicious smoked meat products will also find their place on the table, and since it is a famous hunting region, fans of game meat will come

The Bjelovar-Bilogora area is a true paradise for fans of active vacations. You can tour it on bike or on foot, and its beauty will be enjoyed by fishermen, hunters, fans of horseback riding...

into their own. The culinary delights will be complemented by homemade desserts such as zlevanka, made from cornmeal, Bilogorski kovrtanj, or plum dumplings. A view of the fruitful vines will complete the unique wine experience in the Bilogora area. 

Tasty delicacies at the Vrata Bilogore excursion site; Coner excursion site, winery, and restaurant; Homemade delicacies will spoil you at the Vila Bilogore.

The wine roads can be toured by bike, and you can also choose another route from the more than 300 km of bike routes.

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

www.tzbbz.hr

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Issue topic

AUTUMN IN CONTINENTAL CROATIA: Požega-Slavonia County

The irresistible flavors of Slavonia Friendly locals will offer your fish paprikash, čobanac, kulen, and fantastic wines.

Text: Mirela Drkulec Miletić Photos: Požega-Slavonia County Tourist Board

Homemade bread and kulen; Fish paprikash; Grilled trout.

If you liked čobanac and fish paprikash, you can also look for more traditional dishes in the Museum in a Pot. The project and blog was launched by the Ethnological Department of the Požega City Museum, to revive the culinary heritage of Slavonia from falling into oblivion. In the virtual museum pot, you will find recipes for vinogradarski ćevap, vajnsup, trganci, požeške pijance...

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he first association people have when they think of Slavonia is abundance - the abundant harvest the fertile Slavonian land gives, and the abundance of food on the table in Slavonia. Visit Slavonia in the autumn and enjoy the superb culinary offer of the eastern part of Croatia. It is the time grapes are harvested in sunny vineyards, the aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air, hardworking housewives prepare plum jam, and the hardworking men make šljivovica, which they will gladly offer you to welcome you with. You will soon understand why Slavonians are known as happy, open, and hospitable hosts. Good food is an important part of their lives, and once you try it, you will understand why. A Slavonian meal starts with aromatic smoked meat delicacies kulen, cracklings, headcheese, and bacon.

Try the famous čobanac and fish paprikash. Every true expert prepares that hot and spicy dish in their own way, leaning over a pot boiling over a fire, which emits incredible aromas that tantalize the taste buds. They say that for a good fish paprikash you need at

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least two types of fresh, freshwater fish, and catfish and carp are best, as well as homemade sun-dried paprika. Paprika is also the most important ingredient of čobanac, to spice up that stew made with several different kinds of meat.

Let other authentic local dishes seduce you, such as carp roasted on a wooden fork, goose paprikash, grilled trout... Treat yourself to incredible Slavonian sweets - tačkrle with marmalade, dumplings, desserts made with honey, or various kinds of rolls. You can try all those delicacies at country estates, as well as at many restaurants. Look for the "Flavors of Golden Slavonia" sign to be sure you are eating traditional dishes from that area.

On the international wine map Traditional delicacies pair excellently with traditional wines from that region, whose winemaking tradition dates back to Roman time. The cellars in Požega, Kutjevo, and Pakrac are keepers of superb wine, of which the most highly regarded is Graševina, which put Slavonia on the international wine map. Get to know

more about Slavonian wine on the wine roads, which you can also tour by bike, combining the food and wine experience with an active vacation. The "Slavonian Wine Road" program connects three wine roads with more than thirty wineries in the Požega-Pleternica, Kutjevo, and Pakrac winegrowing regions, offering visitors a total wine experience.

It is an unforgettable experience to head down into the dark, Kutjevo Cellar, which was built in 1232 by the Cistercits, and is full of history. Taste the award-winning Kutjevo wine in that medieval wine cellar, and in the Kutjevo Winemaker

Association learn the basics of sensory evaluation of wine. That tourismeducational wine package will take you into the world of wine and the magic of recognizing the colors, flavors, and aromas of individual sorts of wine.

With idyllic landscapes and irresistible delicacies and wine, you will want to stay in the Golden Valley longer than planned. Stay at one of the country estates, at hotels, at camps, or in private accommodations, and as of recently, you can also stay at one of four luxurious villas nicely tucked away in the preserved Papuk Nature Park and Geopark. 

Empress Maria Therese and her loyal soldier, Baron Trenk, enjoyed the delights of the refined wine in Kutjevo.

According to legend, in 1741, they enjoyed the superb wine, which awakens passion in the veins, for a full seven days, closed in the Kutjevo Cellar.

Carp roasted on a wooden fork; Experiences from the wine road; Locals turn grapes into superb wines; Touring by bike; Kutjevo Cellar.

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

www.tzzps.hr

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Issue topic

AUTUMN IN CONTINENTAL CROATIA: Nedelišće

Give thanks for the autumn in Nedelišće Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: Nedelišće Tourist Board

Autumn is the right time to head over to charming Nedelišće and experience its colors, flavors, aromas, and lifestyle.

Thanksgiving Days are an excellent opportunity to try homemade products, meet the locals, and get to know more about old trades.

Nedelišće Tourist Board Maršala Tita 1 40305 Nedelišće, Croatia  +385 40 822671 tz@tz-nedelisce.hr

www.tz-nedelisce.hr

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n northern Croatia, you will find Nedelišće nicely tucked away and surrounded by the Drava and Mura rivers, fruitful vineyards, fertile fields, century-old forests, and aromatic meadows. Yes, it sounds charming from the very start, and that town between Čakovec and Varaždin, two of the largest cities in northern Croatia, is just that.

Although the beauty of its untouched nature is one of Nedelišće's greatest advantages, it also has other positive traits - it is close enough to the lively pace of big cities and a modern lifestyle, yet far away enough to feel the idyllic peaceful and quiet atmosphere of country life, which modern people favor nowadays. So it is completely logical why that northern corner of Croatia is a favorite amongst all generations, and why tourists from other parts of the world are discovering it more and more.

A good opportunity to visit the heart of preserved nature and get to know its hospitable locals is at Thanksgiving Days, which will be held for the 14th time on October 14 at the MESAP hall in Nedelišće, starting at 10 A.M. This year, the biggest and most popular autumn event in the area will once again gather many visitors and exhibitors from Croatia and the surrounding countries, and open the doors of its pantries to offer the finest homemade products, prepared according to old recipes. It will also be an opportunity

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to get to know more about other traditional local products and to find out more about the crafts that local craftsmen still nurture there today. The fact that the people of Nedelišće are happy hosts who know how to have a good time will also be confirmed by the performances of various folklore ensembles and music bands, which often last longer than planned. You will also likely want to stay in that idyllic area a little longer as well... 

At Thanksgiving Days, try homemade dishes, desserts, and wine, and don't leave Nedelišće without buying a ceker, a woven bag, a famous souvenir from that area.

Š k te nť ine Ku gaz rt a be l m Ro ave Tr tip

In the continental heart of Croatia, stop by one of the family farms, feel the spirit of the past, taste dishes with the flavor of tradition, try various activities, explore the untouched nature that surrounds them...

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Historical traces...

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

The Golden Hall I

n walking through the old, charming streets of Zagreb's Upper Town, you will reach Opatička Street, which is home to some magnificent buildings. One of the most beautiful palaces in the street can be seen at number 10, and you will recognize it for its artistically constructed, renaissance-style wrought-iron fence, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful wrought-iron fences in Zagreb. Behind it, the Paravić Palace has tirelessly stood the test of time, and today it houses the Croatian Institute of History.

Within the palace's thick walls, there are incredibly valuable and interesting rooms, and the gem amongst them is the Golden Hall, which was designed by Izidor Kršnjavi, a Croatian painter, art historian, and politician.

The Neo-Baroque hall is a true gallery of Croatian art from the late 19th century since its interior is graced with valuable works of art - frescas and sculptures signed by famous Croatian artists and sculptors. They include Bela Čikoš-Sesija, Celestin Medović, Vlaho Bukovac, Ivan Tišov, Oton Iveković, and Robert Frangeš Mihanović. Today, the hall with a royal glow is a venue for exclusive events, and formal banquets and cocktail parties. 

September - November 2017

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Gastronomy

Cooked or baked, salty or sweet? Try them every single way! Štrukli, a home­ made pastry filled with cottage cheese, is a traditional Zagreb dish that not a single visitor to the Croatian capital can resist.

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An irresistible holiday fairytale

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fter the scorching summer comes the pleasant autumn, which usually flies by in the blink of an eye, and we find ourselves in Advent, a favorite time of the year for many. If you spend it in Zagreb, whose Advent has been named the best in Europe for the past two years, you've made a good decision. For your stay, choose the modern and comfortable Hotel International, located in the heart of the business zone in the city, which will await you with an irresistible Christmas and New Year's fairytale and a lot of creative offers. Aromatic mulled wine, and an abundance of delicious homemade cookies - from vanilla

crescents and gingerbread to walnut rolls and various types of gibanica they are treats the hosts will spoil you with, which leave no guest unfazed. The plentiful menu of the hotel restaurant includes many other dishes, typical for that time of the year, and make sure to try the haddock prepared a la white, red, or as a spread. Due to its fantastic culinary spread, the famous Zagreb hotel is a favorite venue for business meetings and Christmas parties, which include extravagant holiday menus.

The hotel is also a well-known address in Zagreb for New Years' parties with hot dance beats and live music to the wee hours of the morning, all

accompanied by an exclusive New Year's menu that will take you on an unforgettable gourmet tour. The hosts have also created a special New Year's package for two, which includes the New Year's gala dinner, a stay in a double deluxe room, and the lavish buffet breakfast. So, don't wait until the last moment and plan and reserve your perfect Advent and New Year's fairytale on time this year. 

Hotel International, Miramarska 24, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

 +385 1 6108400, reservations.international@hup-zagreb.hr, www.hotel-international.hr

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© Marko Katić / Media Val

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t... u o s s i m t ' Don © Marin Stulić / Nin Tourist Board

Highlander Velebit

European Bird Watching Day on Salt Pans This ecological event in Nin on October 2, 2017 will teach you about the life of the more than 200 species of birds that have chosen to live in the Nin lagoon.

During the five-day hiking race (September 9-14, 2017), participants will conquer the exciting 104 km trail that passes through the beauty of two national parks - North Velebit and Paklenica, and through the Velebit Nature Park. www.highlander.rocks

www.nin.hr

4th STIFF in Rijeka The Student International Film Festival (STIFF) is the first Croatian international festival dedicated exclusively to student films. The 4th festival will be held in Rijeka's Art-Kino from October 19 to 22, 2017. www.stiff.uniri.hr

Running down the longest wall in Europe is a unique event for all participants of the marathon that will be held in Ston on September 24, 2017.

From October 19 to 22, Postira on the island of Brač will host a unique event, unlike anything else in the world - the first world championship in harvesting olives. Besides the competitive harvesting portion of the program, there will also be excursions, tastings, lectures, workshops, entertainment...

www.ston-wall-marathon.com

www.postira.hr

Ston Wall Marathon

© Ston Tourist Board

The first world championship in harvesting olives

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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Katarina Spa An oasis of superb wellness

s of this spring, Hotel Katarina in Selce, near Crikvenica, has become an even more desirable relaxing place for many hotel guests, but also for others, especially fans of wellness and superb treatments.

The hotel has been enriched with a new wellness center, "Katarina Spa", which offers a complete experience of enjoyment and relaxation in the benefits of wellness and many treatments. In its calm zone with a view of the Mediterranean park, you can relax in the Finnish, Turkish, and Bio

In that beauty oasis, open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, choose the spa program that suits you best (Explore the Mediterranean Spa, Take Me to the Katarina...), enjoy a relaxing massage (Katarina Signature Massage, De-stress Express...), treat your body to a rejuvenating peel (Detox, Polishing...), and then nourish it with a fantastic mask (Golden Body Wrap, Pina Colada...). Rest assured - you will be even more beautiful and refreshed and get the energy you need after a hot, summer day. 

Finnish sauna, in various baths, and the jacuzzi and spacious pool with heated sea water.

A true treat for relaxing the body and soul are the many massages, anti-stress programs, and nourishing peelings and body masks, whereby world renowned Croatian cosmetic products made by 45 Degrees are used exclusively. They are natural cosmetics, based on olive pomace, famous for its antioxidant effect in the battle against the creation of free radicals and oxidative stress.

Jadran d.d., Bana Jelačića 16, 51260 Crikvenica, Croatia

 +385 51 764111, katarina@jadran-crikvenica.hr, www.jadran-crikvenica.hr September - November 2017

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Legends

KRKA NATIONAL PARK

The Legend of the Krka Stories, myths, and legends have always been tied to the charming Krka. Discover one of them here...

Text: "Krka National Park" Public Institution Photos: Mario Romulić / "Krka National Park" Public Institution

Due to its cascades, locals have named Roški slap the Necklaces.

Visit the Krka and explore the magical areas mentioned in the Legend of the Krka.

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nchanted nature, shrouded in a veil of atmospheric changes, tame coastlines, and rugged rocks have always put Krka in the middle of tales, stories, songs, myths, and legends. The Legend of the Krka has proudly stood the test of time and has been preserved through storytelling by caring, hardworking locals who have enriched the shores of the Krka over the centuries.

Long ago in the town of Bogočin lived a rich prince named Bogoje. In it he built a beautiful palace for his only son, Bogdan, and his beautiful fiancé Miljeva from Ključ on the Čikola River. Next to Bogočin, he built a town he called Bogetić. Miljeva was the only daughter of Prince Domagoj and his wife Čika. Since her parents didn't have a male descendant, they were only willing to give her hand in marriage to the man who was willing to move to town of Ključ. There were several suitors, but none of them agreed to those terms. Finally, an agreement was reached with Bogdan from Bogočin on the Krka. He agreed to the deal under the condition that if Miljeva and Bogdan were blessed in their marriage

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to get sons, one of them would inherit Ključ and start his family there. When the wedding was agreed upon, there was an oak forest that needed clearing so that the party from Bogočin could come to pick up the bride Miljeva in Ključ. In the meantime, Prince Domagoj passed away, but the plans for the wedding continued right after his death. Girls from various areas Cetina, Imotski, Kotar, Zagora, Promina, and other places prepared and brought Miljeva woven and embroidered gifts.

Miljeva also received gifts from her beloved Bogdan: seven apples, with a precious jewel imbedded in each apple. Many guests came to the wedding, amongst which were many princes and county heads who were there upon invitation from old Bogoje and the widowed Čika. There was never another wedding like that in the area. The wedding party headed from Ključ with Miljeva to reach Bogočin at dusk. Suddenly, a huge winged dragon jumped out from the Krka, grabbed Miljeva, and pulled her down the cliff to Brljan Lake. The frightened wedding party escaped, and unhappy Bogdan, in his wish to save Miljeva, jumped into

The Krka monastery; Brljan Lake; Ključica fortress; Fairies at LegendFest; The confluence of the Krka and Čikola.

the water where the angry dragon also pulled him into the depths of the Krka.

When his sad father Bogoje found this out, he gathered all of the locals and announced that he was leaving all of his wealth to the parish so that the name of his son, Bogdan, and him, Prince Bogoje, would always be remembered. He built a monastery on the other side of the Krka River (where Holy Archangel now stands), so that priests would pray for his unlucky son and sad Bogoje while watching the abandoned Bogočin. Somewhat further away, upstream on the Krka, he built two identical cities: Čučevo and Nečven, facing

one another, to symbolize his son Bogdan and his un-destined bride Miljeva. In the tall towers of one and the other city, he locked up two twin sisters to pray for their unlucky brother Bogdan day and night. He then built two bridges, one at Miljacka, and one at Roški slap, so that while crossing, every traveler would pay a bridge toll of two tears - one for Miljeva, and the other for Bogdan. After that, he demolished the town of Bogočin, headed out into the world, and was never heard of again. The widowed Čika, Miljeva's mother, built a tower near Ključ so she could pray for her daughter and son-in-law Bogdan for the

rest of her life. From that time, people call Bogočin-grad Vilin-grad, the river under Ključ is Čikola, and the area between those two towns is Miljevci.

(Source: Ante Jurić, Gradovi, utvrde i sakralni spomenici uz Krku i Čikolu, Matica Hrvatska Skradin, Skradin, 2004., pages 111-112).

Today, the magical places mentioned in the Legend of the Krka continue to pique imagination and bring a dash of life with performances over the past two years at LegendFest, a family festival of folk stories, legends, and myths held at Roški slap. 

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© Milan Balaban / Vodice Tourist Board

VODICE

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

Events

Vodice's autumn guarantees a good time Text: Petra Škofić ◆ Photos: Vodice Tourist Board

The Dalmatian center of events continues into the fall with a full schedule...

A view of the center of Vodice; The Bacchanalia; Vodice attracts fans of active vacations all year long.

The area of presentday Vodice was once an important part of the Roman trade route, which several archeological sites bear witness to, including Velika Mrdakovica. There, there ruins of a pre-Roman settlement and a Liburnian necropolis that dates back to the 4th century B.C. were discovered, including a collection of glass dishes, the only ones of their kind in the entire area of the Roman Empire.

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he Adriatic coast continues to sway in the rhythm of events even after summer gives in to fall. Through many events, coastal towns tell stories of history, culture, and the lifestyle of their inhabitants, and you will find such stories in Vodice, a popular tourist destination near Šibenik. Vodice is full of interesting stories, especially about the long culinary tradition of the Vodice region that dates back to ancient times. Have you ever asked yourself what ancient Romans ate? You will find the answer at the Bacchanalia event (September 23) at the Velika Mrdakovica - Roman Cistern site. There you will find a wide, extravagant spread of ancient Roman culinary delicacies prepared according to ancient recipes such as, for example, pork roasted in honey, bay leaf, and aromatic herbs, Roman sausages and bread, cake with honey and sesame...

And you can round it all off with Roman wine with honey. Besides delicious

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dishes, there you will also find various homemade products and souvenirs, as well as performances, music, and dancing, which will show you that the Ancient Romans truly knew how to have a good time.

In Vodice, September will come to a close in an imaginative way at the Creative Days of Faust Vrančić (September 29 - October 1). The cultural and educational festival promotes creativity and the exchange of ideas, especially amongst the youngest visitors and it bears the name of the renaissance scientist and inventor Faust Vrančić, whose home and final resting place are located on the nearby island of Prvić.

October in Vodice will be in the spirit of active tourism, which will be brought on by two events - Vodice Trekking (October 7), and Gabre's Marathon (October 8). Vodice Trekking is an original way to get to know more about the natural beauty of that area, and the surrounding mountains offer an

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board © Denis Peroš / Vodice Tourist Board

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

From Roman delicacies and creative festivals to sports events - Vodice awaits you with plenty of content in the autumn months as well.

There are many reasons why Vodice is one of the most popular Croatian vacation destinations, and one of them is Vodice's beaches, which attract visitors from all parts of the world with their beauty and content. Swimming in the sea at fall temperatures may seem like an extreme sport, but not at Vodice's new beach. Designed in the shape of an enclosed lagoon with a temperature that is up to 10°C warmer than the surrounding sea, the Male Vruje beach allows visitors to enjoy the sea even off-season. The beach is also the venue for attractive water polo games and practices of the water polo team that visitors can also try, along with plenty of other content. 

Vodice's beaches next to the Olympia Sky hotel; Attractive beaches and a clean sea are Vodice's great advantages; Gabre's Marathon.

Vodice Tourist Board Obala Vladimira Nazora b.b.

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

attractive view of the Kornati and Krka national parks, and the Vransko jezero Nature Park. The race is divided into three levels of difficulty - up to 5, 15, and 25 kilometers. Gabre's Marathon offers a similar experience.

The sports event gathers fans of cycling from Croatia and beyond on the meandering road and mountain trails that criss-cross the Vodice area. The most persistent yachtsmen will enjoy the Regatta Jabuka (November 10-12), 110 miles in length. The night start, sailing to the distant island of Jabuka, a mystical islet of volcanic origin, and returning, under very strong wind, can only be won by the most persistent masters of sailing.

www.vodice.hr

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BAŠKA VODA

© Studio Blagec / Baška Voda Tourist Board

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

© Studio Blagec / Baška Voda Tourist Board

Experience Croatia

A top destination in central Dalmatia Text: Petra Škofić Photos: Baška Voda Tourist Board, Hotels Baška Voda, Konoba Nevera and tipTravel magazine

The clean sea and fresh air, heavenly beaches, enchanting nature, plenty of options for an active vacation, and good food guarantee a perfect holiday in Baška Voda.

A view of Baška Voda and Nikolina beach; The village of Topići; The village of Bast is famous for beautiful examples of folk architecture.

Game of Thrones, one of the most popular shows of all time, was filmed at several locations in Croatia, including, amongst others, the area of Baška Voda - at the Greben site near the village of Topići (on the very slopes of Biokovo), and at the ruins of the fortress above Promajna, a town several kilometers south of Baška Voda.

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espite the close vicinity of large travel destinations, such as Split and Makarska, Baška Voda has retained the authentic charm of a Dalmatian town. The former settlement of laborers, fishermen, and sailors grew into a tourist hub that with its heavenly beaches, crystal clear sea, fresh mountain air, cultural and sports facilities, and an abundant offer of authentic Dalmatian dishes attracts visitors even when the summer crowds die down.

Warm and mild winters make it attractive for fans of active vacations even beyond the summer season.

There is a wide range of sports activities available - walking, cycling, free climbing, parasailing, windsurfing, diving... Kilometers of marked walking trails beckon you to walk next to the sea, and the path between the sea and the mighty Biokovo Mountain will take you through picturesque places.

Make sure to stop by the villages of Topići and Bast, which have preserved valuable examples of folk architecture,

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and get refreshed with good wine in the Nevera tavern in Bast. The tavern is also open all winter long and is famous for its specialties, such as lamb roasted on a spit. There, Thursday is reserved for the Day of Dropčica and Pašticada, traditional regional specialties, and in front of the tavern you can try your hand at playing bocce.

Nature fans will take the time to go bird watching - information about the project and the diverse world of birds can be found on the info boards next to the walking trail, and there are rest stops with benches and tables placed at several points. For those with an adventurous spirit, there are two natural boulders prepared for free climbing. The first is at Smokvina, near the village of Bast, and the Grebišće archeological site, with 29 climbing directions, of various difficulties.

You will find the second boulder in Bratuš, right next to the sea, with three climbing directions, and in its vicinity you will find the interesting Squid in Stone monument.

When the summer heat and crowds die down, Baška Voda becomes an even more beloved destination for fans of active vacations.

Autumn in Baška Voda is a time of harvesting grapes and fruits, irreplace­ able ingredients in the Dalmatian culinary story. Often, guests participate in those activities because it offers them the unique opportunity to get to know local customs and local people. Enjoy the flavors of Dalmatian

delicacies prepared in a creative way at the Del Posto restaurant, at the Grand Hotel Slavia****, and at the renowned Matrioshka restaurant in Baška Voda, which is owned by the Hoteli Baška Voda d.d. company. Del Posto participates in various culinary events that promote a domestic offer, such as thematic weeks dedicated to homemade wine, olive oil, St. Nicholas, Christmas, etc. Specialized for preparing Mediterranean dishes, the restaurant's chefs place emphasis on fresh ingredients, especially fish, and on a wide assortment of superb wines, both domestic and foreign. The restaurant is open not only for the guests of the newly renovated Grand

Hotel Slavia****, but also for the general public, and is amongst the top restaurants offering a luxurious Dalmatian spread with reason.

The hotel is located just a few meters from the sea and a Blue Flag Beach, and has 72 rooms and suites, an 800 m2 wellness center, a café bar, a restaurant, and a modern conference center and banquet hall. 

Cyclists are often guests in Baška Voda; Nevera tavern in Bast is famous for homemade specialties; Grand Hotel Slavia****.

Baška Voda Tourist Board Obala sv. Nikole 31, 21320 Baška Voda Croatia,  +385 21 620713 info@baskavoda.hr

www.baskavoda.hr

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Cultural tourism

DUBROVNIK-NERETVA COUNTY Stazama stećaka / On the Trails of Medieval Tombstones Stećci

© DUNEA Regional Development Agency (Regionalna razvojna agencija DUNEA)

Down the path of mystical stećci As famous as southern Croatia is worldwide, it has still managed to preserve its mystique and stories that it has just started to reveal to many tourists. One of them is tied to mystical stećci...

Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: DUNEA Regional Development Agency

One of the stećci in Konavle.

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ven if you have already gotten to know a lot about the many beauties of the far south of Croatia, this time, we bring you 115, or even 1428

Head out on a walk on the Trail of the Medieval Tombstones Stećci and slowly discover the secrets of the so-called stone sleepers.

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additional reasons why you should return to the area again. There you will find that many sites, or stećci stone tombstones that date back to the late medieval times that are characteristic for that part of Europe - and scattered throughout Croatia's southernmost county. Since they represent valuable, unique cultural and historic heritage, while regularly attracting the attention of many passersby and tourists, the locals have decided to additionally preserve them and present them to visitors in several ways, including through the HER.CUL project. One of the results of the project is the establishment of the attractive tourist route, the Trail of Medieval

Tombstones Stećci, which includes 32 sites with stećci in the area covering the four countries included in the project: Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Monte­ negro, and Serbia. The trail includes 19 such sites in the far south of Croatia.

On UNESCO's list The largest number of stećci can be seen there in the rural areas of the Neretva Valley, in the Dubrovnik Riviera, and in Konavle, where one of the sites, next

to the church of St. Barbara, has been inscribed on UNESCO's list of world cultural heritage. You will find one of the best preserved and most beautiful sites with stećci, Novakovo greblje, if you visit the Dubrovnik Riviera. There are a somewhat smaller number of stećci in the city of Dubrovnik and Župa Dubrovačka. The stone beauties, preservers of medieval stories, are found in various sites in various shapes - from slabs and crates to gabled roof tombstones. Sometimes they mark

As of July 2016, the site next to the church of St. Barbara in Konavle has been inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO list of world cultural heritage sites.

The stećci site next to the church of St. Barbara in Konavle; Stećci at the Dubrovnik Riviera.

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Cultural tourism

DUBROVNIK-NERETVA COUNTY

The Neretva Valley is also home to mystical stećci; Stećci at the Dubrovnik Riviera, embellished with decorative motifs.

The Trail of the Medieval Tombstones Stećci was established in the DubrovnikNeretva County through the HER.CUL project, financed by the European Commission, carried and conducted by the DUNEA Regional Development Agency.

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one grave, and at other times multiple graves, and they are often embellished with decorative motifs - stars, crosses, reliefs of wreaths, bows and arches, shields and swords, and depictions of hunting and animals... You will also notice that they are often located next to churches, wells, springs, and ponds, as well as at remote mountain areas and archeological sites.

Stećci are sure to intrigue you, and when you would like to gather your thoughts and get some rest, take some time to enjoy the other attractions and benefits that area offers. Enjoy preserved nature and unique rural architecture in Konavle and Župa Dubrovačka, and get to know more about the folk costume and embroidery in Konavle. Make sure to recharge with homemade wine and food

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at one of the many local country estates, and if you would like to spend your time more actively, explore the area by bike, on horseback, or swim in the crystal-clear sea. At the Dubrovnik Riviera, famous for olive groves and vineyards, try homemade wine, olive oil, cheese, and honey, and watch a performance of the temperamental Linđo dance. Its catchy rhythm will likely motivate you to dance. Head out to the Neretva Valley for an exciting photo safari through the Neretva arms and lakes in a traditional Neretva rowboat, discover the diverse world of birds in incredible nature and at the Natural History Museum in Metković, visit the Narona Archeological Museum in Vid, and try eel and frog brodet, which pairs perfectly with wines from that area. 

© k te nš ine Ku gaz rt a be l m Ro ave Tr tip

RIVIERA & ISLANDS Dubrovnik-Neretva County Tourist Board www.visitdubrovnik.hr

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DUBROVNIK

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Explore Croatia

When the heat dies down, and the crowds dwindle, the autumn months are the ideal time to explore the old, stone streets of Dubrovnik full of stories and incredible buildings at every step.

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A relaxing autumn on the Dubrovnik Riviera

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fter a hot summer, the autumn months are a perfect time to relax and revitalize the body, mind, and soul, and to take a pleasant trip. Why not combine the two this autumn and head over to the world famous pearl, Dubrovnik, and besides enjoying its beauty, also enjoy the benefits of the charming Dubrovnik Riviera?

Its well-known host is the luxurious Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera Hotel, a favorite amongst guests from all parts of the world, especially those from Great Britain, the USA, France, and Scandinavian countries. Surrounded by an aromatic Mediterranean garden, and with an attractive view of the sea, the hotel will win you

over even before you enter its spacious, comfortable, and modern interior, and settle into one of its superbly designed rooms or suites.

Make sure to make some time for yourself, forget about stress, and relax in the prestigious Shine Spa for Sheraton™ at the hotel, where you will be pampered with plenty of content and superb treatments. Relax your body in the Finnish or Turkish sauna, reenergize yourself in the modern gym, enjoy the irresistible view the whirlpool offers, or take a swim in one of the spacious pools. A true treat is relaxing with one of the fantastic treatments - massages, cosmetic treatments, or aromatherapy with local herbs, flowers, and seawater.

The choice is yours, and you can also combine them. The hosts have prepared special prices and packages for enjoying the benefits of the spa and wellness center for the autumn months, which you can see and reserve here: www.shinespadubrovnik.com 

Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera Hotel, Šetalište dr. Franje Tuđmana 17, 20207 Mlini, Croatia

 +385 20 484100, reservations@sheratondubrovnikriviera.com, www.sheratondubrovnikriviera.com

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UNESCO

MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE

The benefits of Mediterranean food

Text: Željka Kunštek

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pon the initiative of several countries - Spain, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, and Croatia, which sent in a multinational candidacy, in 2013, Mediterranean cuisine was absolutely deservingly inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. That cuisine, which the World Health Organization has named the healthiest in the world, is one of the main features of the Croatian Adriatic - its coastal region, the islands, and part of the hinterland. Nearly all tourists have, while enjoying a coastal destination in Croatia, and its leisurely Mediterranean lifestyle, tried fresh Adriatic fish, seafood, and vegetables enriched with precious drops of olive oil, and rounded off their meal with a glass of homemade red wine. Healthy, natural ingredients are the base of Mediterranean cuisine, so along with fresh fish and seafood, a typical Mediterranean dish includes grains, various fruits and vegetables, wild greens, legumes, nuts, various high-quality cheeses (made with goat's and sheep's milk), and the musthave olives, which locals use to produce extra-virgin olive oil, which Homer called

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"liquid gold" back in the days. Various desserts are also an integral part of the Mediterranean spread, most often made using nuts (almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts), dried fruits and produce such as figs, carob, and lemon and orange peel.

Organic honey is used as a sweetener.

Many studies conducted worldwide have confirmed the positive effect of Mediterranean cuisine on health, primarily in preserving healthy hearts, protecting from chronic degenerative diseases, strengthening the immune system, decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, improving work efficiency... So, there is truly no reason not to try the healthy and delicious dishes from Mediterranean menus the next time you are enjoying yourself in the Mediterranean part of Croatia. 

Mediterranean cuisine has been named the healthiest in the world, and you can enjoy it at all parts of the Adriatic coastline in Croatia.

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Croatia through philately

AROMATIC STAMPS - ROSEMARY

Presenting postage stamps Prepared by: Željka Kunštek

Rosemary It is considered to be a sign of love and fidelity, has a gentle effect on health, is a favorite herb used in cosmetics, and adored in gastronomy. Who could resist it?!

W The stamp can be ordered online here:

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hether you are walking alongside the sea at the Croatian coast, lounging on the beach, or passing through parks in coastal destinations, you have surely felt the heady aroma of rosemary. The aromatic, bushy herb that reaches a height of 1.5 to 2 meters, has grown in the warmest areas of the Croatian coast since ancient times, and it is believed that it originated in the south of Spain, from where Benedictine monks spread it throughout the Mediterranean. It blooms from March to May, and often in the fall, and in the best locations, it even blooms all year long.

The medicinal effects of rosemary have been known for a long time. Essential oil is received through distillation, and its therapeutic substance has many

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effects - it improves circulation, increases blood pressure, is efficient against cramps and rheumatism, and is a known pain-killer. Rosemary also increases memory retention and neural functions, eases digestive pain and aches, decreases stress, calms colds and the flu... Its use has been well-known in cosmetics as well, so rosemary oil is regularly added to baths and is an integral part of many creams and balms, as well as being used for relaxation treatments in wellness centers and cosmetic salons.

Rosemary is also a well-known herb added to meat and vegetable dishes (especially to oven-roasted potatoes), and to various sauces, so it deserves a place in your herb collection. Still, bear in mind that although it has a pleasant aroma, it is incredibly bitter, so add it to dishes in small amounts.

The stamp with the Rosemary motif was issued on March 21, 2016, 35.50 mm x 29.82 mm in size, and together with stamps bearing the motifs of Immortelle and Lavender, it was issued in 20-stamp sheets and 10-stamp booklets. The Croatian Post also issued a First Day Cover (FDC), and three Maximum Cards. The stamp was issued in 170 thousand copies per motif, of which 20 thousand copies were in booklets. The author of the stamp is Klara Mikulić, a designer from Zagreb. 

ONLINE

In the service of enchanting water

Croatia

websites and mobile applications

A new application will reveal how to reach the closest source of drinking water, and a new website will show you the interesting area surrounding the magical Plitvice Lakes.

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Prepared by: Željka Kunštek

© Freewa

© Freewa

Freewa

A team of young, Croatian enthusiasts have launched the multidisciplinary Freewa project, also known as the Free Water Project, with the aim of mapping all the sources of drinking water throughout Croatia and the world. It is a free mobile app that can help you find the closest source of drinking water, and you can also add any source, pump, or well that you come across into the Freewa app - all you need is a photo and its location. Along with the innovative application, the Croatian team has also designed an environmentally friendly glass bottle for storing water, and a carrying bag to go along with it, made of recycled plastic packaging.

DiscoverPlitvice.com

DiscoverPlitvice.com is the name of a new website of the Plitvice Lakes Tourist Board, which informs guests not only about the beautiful lakes protected

by UNESCO, but also about the interesting, diverse area surrounding them. The new website enables easy reading, and is divided into several categories: Plan, Stay, Taste, and Do. On the website, you will find information on accommodations and restaurants, possibilities for an active vacation, natural and cultural heritage, etc. The website is currently available in Croatian and English, and there is a plan to translate it into several other international languages. www.discoverplitvice.com

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CULTURAL SCENE

Singrlice

CULTURAL SCENE

Singrlice have won two Porin awards for the best ethno album. They have recorded three albums to date: Singrlice (2008), Made in tradicija (2011) and Ajde cure u... (2016).

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Folklore in a modern form The "Singrlice" vocal ensemble was established in 2006. The girls, members of the ensemble, took their love of folklore and transformed it into a collection of ethnic songs, mostly from the Kajkavian area, which they gave a new sound with modern arrangements.

Conducted by: Vlatka Vužić Photos: PROMO Singrlice

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our musical genre is an expression of love for folklore, but also the desire to wrap tradition up in modern packaging.

Where did you get the idea to do that?

We love folk songs, and we noticed that many beautiful songs are only alive amongst those who are in folklore.

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Our wish was to gently bring it closer to those who aren't used to ethnic sounds, so our leader, Tomislav Jozić, dressed up traditional sounds, while retaining and respecting their original form, to a modern style that is more acceptable to the contemporary listener.

CULTURAL SCENE Singrlice - Grad se beli

© aquariusrecordshr, www.aquarius-records.com

Most of your songs are from the Kajkavian area. In comparison with, for example, Dalmatian songs, Kajkavian songs are present in a much smaller degree. Is that the reason you decided to head in that direction musically?

Dalmatian songs are best sung by Dalmatians, because they feel and live the songs. Their songs include the bora wind and the sea, while we are close to our green hills and our dear 'kaj', which has been unjustifiably neglected, and we are trying to rectify that.

You have also collaborated with many musicians in Croatia and abroad. Are there groups who nurture a similar musical genre who you meet at performances?

We have formed foreign collaboration with concerts in the city of Wirges, in

The clothing you wear during your performances is inspired by elements of folklore.

Every piece of clothing has been made by a different designer, because each of them looks at folk clothing in their own way, and has their own author trademark. We generally recommend folk costumes from our area, some details from the embroidery and clothing, and designers then present their ideas, after which we decide whether we like it or not.

What are your musical plans for the future? Where would you like to perform?

We would like to record a new album because our listeners love our new songs that we are already performing at concerts. We cultivate tradition in our own way and are happy for every opportunity we get to present it. We would love it if we would be asked to perform as an additional part of the tourist offer at many events at the coast, but also in the interior. 

Would you like to win the Singrlice CD "Ajde cure u..."? 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.

The winners of the CD from the previous issue: Magdalena Hodak (Zagreb, Croatia); Mario Kasunić (Osijek, Croatia).

September - November 2017

CULTURAL SCENE

You have performed in various parts of Croatia. Which performances have remained in good memory for you?

We love venues with a special ambiance, such as Dubovac Castle in Karlovac, in front of the St. Barbara mine in Rude, at the Knin fortress, at the foot of the Sokolac Castle in Brinje... Those venues are attractive on their own, they exude history, and we fit in there. We also recently performed at the christening of the Zora lađa, a replica of a grain boat on the Kupa, which is a praiseworthy project that is very similar to our artistic philosophy.

Germany, and while mastering the CD "Ajde cure u...". We often meet groups that cherish folk songs or a distinctive ethno genre. We are fond of the "Vuga" vocal group from Karlovac, "Čipkice" were once guests at our concert, and we are especially fond of our collaboration with the queen of ethno in Croatia - Dunja Knebl, and with Lidija Bajuk.

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News and announcements

WORLD

France is a top travel destination

More than 150 representatives of the hospitality sector from 30 countries in the CEE and CIS regions gathered in Prague on June 5 and 6, 2017 at the fifth Leaders in Hospitality Summit. There were discussions on many topics, including the possibilities and challenges that the hospitality sector faces in the CEE and CIS regions, but also globally. There was talk of following trends and adapting to the needs and desires of guests, as well as methods of attracting international investors.

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© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

© Leaders in Hospitality Summit

Leaders in Hospitality Summit held in Prague

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© Shangri-La Hotel Paris, Paris

According to data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), in 2016, France was visited by 82.6 million tourists, which placed that European country at the top of the list of the most visited travel destinations in the world. With 75.6 million tourists, the USA trails just behind France, and Spain takes third place with 75.5 million tourists and an increase of 10 percent in comparison with the previous year. As far as profit from tourism is concerned, the USA takes the lead with 206 billion US dollars, while Spain takes second place, followed by Thailand and China.

Tourists from Hong Kong reserve their vacation the earliest

London and Vienna are the most popular European business destinations

According to a survey by Agoda.com, an international platform for reserving hotel accommodations, tourists from Hong Kong reserve their travel arrangements earliest, an average of 49.9 days before departure. Russians take second place with 46.4 days, followed

by Australians with 44.3 days, and tourists from Taiwan and Britain. The survey also showed that early reservations have become a global trend, and that tourists have started planning their vacations earlier since early reservations offer a greater selection and lower prices.

The newest report from BC Travel placed London, Vienna, and Amsterdam at the top of the list of the most popular business destinations in Europe, while Barcelona, now at sixth place, and Madrid, at eighth place, recorded the largest increase in the number of business travelers in comparison to 2015. The countries most visited for business in Europe are Great Britain, Germany, and Spain, while worldwide the list is led by the USA, China, and India. European business travelers most often travel to New York and Shanghai, and the largest number of business trips take place in September (9.55%), while the fewest occur in December (5.6%).

INTERNATIONAL

TRAVEL WEEEK | ABU DHABI ITW Abu Dhabi

Halal tourism growing in popularity The Global Muslim Travel Index published data according to which tourists of the Islamic faith spent a total of 155 billion US dollars on traveling and vacations in 2016, which is 13 percent of the total amount spent on tourism worldwide.

The most popular destinations for halal tourism are Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, and African countries, especially Morocco and Egypt, are also focusing on halal tourism. Taiwan is also amongst the popular halal destinations, and by the end of 2017 it should have attracted around a hundred thousand halal tourists.

Š lhw.com / Grand Resort Lagonissi, Athens

Š lhw.com / The Chedi, Muscat

On November 25 and 26, 2017, the only international tourism event dedicated to halal tourism will be held in Abu Dhabi. The two-day event will cover the most important topics for halal tourism, including, amongst other things, health tourism, shopping, and family traveling. The tourism offer adapted to halal tourist is the fastest growing tourism segment worldwide, and it is estimated that by 2020, halal tourists will spend more than 200 billion US dollars.

Awaiting the WTM Once again, one of the largest B2B tourism fairs, the World Travel Market, will attract nearly five thousand exhibitors from all over the world to London. From November 6 to 8, 2017, there will be discussion on current trends, challenges, and innovations in tourism, and it will also be an opportunity for representatives of the tourism sector to network and form new collaborations.

HTHIC 2017 The Heritage, Tourism, and Hospitality International Conference will be held in the Finnish city of Pori from September 27 to 29, 2017.

The conference will gather experts and those who work in the field of tourism to answer the question of how destinations can successfully attract tourists while including all those interested in contributing to the preservation of nature and cultural heritage. The focus of this year's conference are storytelling techniques, and using storytelling as a tool for promoting travel destinations.

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CROATIA AND WORLD

© Dialog komunikacije

Interesting facts

ETW: Combine sailing with a Croatian language course

Croatian Museum of Illusions also opened in Vienna The first Museum of Illusions was opened in Zagreb in 2015, and gained great popularity immediately. The museum also opened franchises in Zadar and Ljubljana in 2016, and as of recently, it can also be visited in the Austrian capital. The exciting and diverse illusions in the family-friendly museum, adapted to all ages, enables visitors to understand why the eyes see things the brain doesn't understand. So, for example, visitors can sharpen their vision while looking for a 3D picture hidden in a stereo­gram, explore the laws of perception, play with size ratios and enjoy plenty of other illusions.

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Based on reviews from a million travelers on its websites, Booking.com presented the top destinations for enjoying food.

Fans of pizza shouldn't miss out on Naples, while those who enjoy seafood must visit Los Abrigos on the Spanish Canary Islands.

Make sure to try the dim sum in Trang, Thailand, and sushi in Tokyo. Paella aficionados should visit Valencia, and fans of waffles should go to Brussels.

Dubrovnik - the best destination for cruise trips in the eastern Mediterranean

© Eurocomm-PR

Now everyone over the age of 13 can combine a sailing course with learning the Croatian language in the irresistible waters of the Adriatic Sea with the Educational Travel Worldwide (ETW) travel agency which has formed successful collaboration with Academia Navalis Adriatica (ANA) international naval and sailing academy and at the Center for Foreign Languages (Centar za strane jezike). If, on the other hand, you can't wait for winter, the agency will take you to the best Christmas fair in Europe - Advent in Zagreb, and you can also enjoy the Christmas atmosphere in the Croatian capital while you learn the Croatian language on the slopes of Medvednica Mountain.

© ETW

Booking.com: Top destinations for enjoying food

According to Cruise Critic, the world's largest online cruise review website and cruise trip planning website (TripAdvisor's cruise site), in late July 2017, Dubrovnik was named the best destination for cruise trips in the eastern Mediterranean. Kotor took second place, Rhodos placed third, followed by Mykonos and Venice.

© Robert Kunštek / tipTravel magazine

How to visit the Game of Thrones filming locations in Croatia for less than 100 USD? A large number of fans of the HBO show Game of Thrones have come to Croatia since the coastal parts of Dalmatia have been the filming locations for the globally popular show. Besides Dubrovnik, the show was also filmed on site in Šibenik and the Krka National Park, in Trogir, in Split (at the Klis fortress), in Makarska, and in Trsteno. The Wander.com site reveals how to tour all the locations for about 575 kuna (around 90 USD), and the itinerary, which starts in Zagreb.

Source:

www.croatiaweek.com

PROMO

weekends. Amongst other things, they include an examination, counselling and therapy according to the recommendations of an Ayurveda specialist, as well as eating ingredients that will revitalize you and give you the energy you truly need. 

treatments at Thermana Laško, located just an hour and a half from Zagreb by car. At its Ayurveda center, treatments are conducted by top-notch experts from India, and besides the Ayurveda programs, the hosts also organize several three-day Ayurveda weekends, as well as Ayurveda detox

© Thermana Laško

© Thermana Laško

n today's rushed way of life, which brings along many health issues, modern man has turned to ancient traditional treatment methods more and more. One of them is Ayurveda or "the science of life", which teaches us to live a healthy life in harmony with nature. You can enjoy superb Ayurveda

Thermana Laško,  +386 3 423 2100, info@thermana.si, www.thermana.si

© Thermana Laško

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A place with superb Ayurveda

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We're taking you to...

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BRUGES AND GHENT (BELGIUM)

BRUGES GHENT

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BRUGES AND GHENT BELGIUM

The picturesque architecture of Bruges and Ghent are the first thing that attract attention upon arrival in those Belgian cities.

Belgium's romantic side Text: Željka Kunštek ◆ Photos: Robert Kunštek

Whether you travel to Brussels for business or pleasure, stay a couple of days longer and take the time to visit Bruges and Ghent, medieval cities infused with a romantic and nostalgic vibe.

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We're taking you to...

BRUGES (BELGIUM)

Impressive churches are one of the symbols of Bruges; Sailing down the canals in Bruges shouldn't be missed out on.

BRUGES Hop on board one of the tour boats and discover the hidden, romantic landscapes of Bruges.

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fter spending a few days in Brussels, which flew by in a flash, we were just a day away from returning home. We decided to use it to visit the area surrounding the Belgian capital, but it wasn't an easy decision - should we choose Bruges or Ghent? We heard all the best about both cities, so we didn't want to miss out on either, especially when we found out that from Brussels (Brussels Midi Station), it only takes half an hour (to Ghent) and an hour (to Bruges) by train. It was then easy to choose - we'd tour both!

Although our original plan was to visit Ghent, and then continue on to Bruges in the early afternoon, we changed our plan as the train slowly neared Ghent shrouded in fog. We decided to test our luck with the weather in Bruges, and made a good decision. The city awaited us bathed in sun, just as a tourist gem we gave the chance to win us over in just a few hours should. It managed to do so right away, so we didn't put our camera down even before we entered its medieval center that UNESCO recognized and added to its list of cultural heritage sites in Europe in 2000. Absolutely deservingly.

The city can also be toured by horsedrawn carriage; Sailing down canals also reveals hidden, romantic corners of the city.

Unique bells With every step down its stone streets, which horse-drawn carriages full of curious tourists tirelessly drove down, the city impressed us with

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We're taking you to...

BRUGES (BELGIUM)

Colorful facades on townhouses on the main city square, Grote Markt.

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Bruges' old city center was inscribed on UNESCO's list of world heritage sites in 2000, while the city was named European Capital of Culture in 2002.

its palaces, churches, bell towers... architecture that is, although it sounds like a clichĂŠ, truly breathtaking. Every step confirmed that we were in a true tourist destination and we understood the power of the experience that today's tourist seeks. The streets were lined with souvenir shops full of original items and lace (the city's main souvenir), cozy restaurants and cafĂŠs, shops offering first-class teas and enticing chocolate shops, and the streets were full of the aroma of warm waffles topped with creative combinations. While they slowly melted in our mouths, we arrived at the main city square, Grote Markt.

The Belfry bell tower, 83 meters high, is one of the main attractions and symbols of Bruges. It is special for its 47 melodic bells that, just like a musical instrument, create melodies that are truly music for the ears and the soul, produced by a 'karoliner'. If you accept the challenge and climb the 366 steps that lead to the top of the bell tower, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city and

The main city square attracts tourists from all over the world all year long; The Belfry bell tower.

the surrounding area. The impressive Provinciaal Hof neo-gothic palace adds a charming touch to the square, as does the line of houses with colorful facades. Another important city square is Burg, where City Hall attracts a lot of attention.

Sailing down the canals One of the most attractive ways of touring the city is sailing down Bruges' canals, which is why the city is called "Venice of the North", just like other northern European cities that are located on canals. Just like real tourists, we boarded one of the many tour boats and let Bruges

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We're taking you to...

BRUGES (BELGIUM)

You won't put your camera away in photogenic Bruges; In Bruges, restaurants with typical Belgian specialties can be found at every step.

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There are several places within the city where you can board tour boats and head out to sail down the canals.

impress us with its romantic and nostalgic landscape, picturesque bridges and hidden gardens, while listening to our captain who told the story of the city's impressive history in a humorous way. Amongst other things, we found out that Bruges was a famous European center of trade, but also a textile mecca, where wool fabrics were produced until they were replaced by lace in the 17th century. You will still see it today on many tables in restaurants in the city. Make sure to take some time to refresh yourself with some local beer and enjoy some homemade delicacies in one of the cute restaurants. Most of them offer a view of the romantic canals.

Visit the Beguinage complex, with houses with white faรงades that encircle a convent garden. Its former inhabitants were members of the

Beguine sisterhood, and today Benedictine nuns live there along with some other women who have decided not to marry. Bruges is also home to many churches that are true treasuries of artwork. One of them is the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk) with a 115.5 meter tall brick bell tower.

The church houses Michelangelo's sculpture of the Madonna and Child.

Also interesting is the Basilica of the Holy Blood (Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed), which, as legend says, houses the relics of the Holy Blood. While in Bruges, visit some of the many interesting museums, and the selection is truly vast - from the museums of beer, chocolate, and French fries to the museums of torture, lamps, and folklore. The choice is yours. After that, head over to Ghent.

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We're taking you to...

GHENT (BELGIUM)

The majestic churches and bell towers and medieval architecture in Ghent will also delight you; Tasting Belgian beer in one of the many pubs in Ghent is truly a "must".

GHENT

In picturesque Ghent Although it is less-known and not as big of a travel destination as Bruges, Ghent is a true treat of a city and it is worth spending at least a few hours there. The tall towers on its medieval streets are the first thing you notice there and leave an impression of power, and Belfry, the symbol of the city's autonomy and independence, stands out amongst them all. It used to serve the purpose of watching over the city and the surrounding area, and its value was also recognized by UNESCO. The cathedral tower, dedicated to St. Bavo (Sint-Baafskathedraal), also competes with its height, and it is also worth taking a look at the cathedral's

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Ghent is a famous university city, and the student population adds an even greater dose of vivacity.

interior, which houses many pieces of art. Its most famous piece is the Ghent Altarpiece, also often called "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb", according to the motif that dominates the altar.

The altarpiece is a world-famous masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers.

The 12th century Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen), the greatest attraction in the city, exudes true strength and a sense of power. Although its use has changed throughout history, it has remained well preserved. It used to be used as a coin mint, a court, a jail, and then a factory to produce textile, or more precisely cotton. Today, many tourists tour its complex, admiring the impressive building Philip of Alsace had built, as locals say, with one thing in

Ghent is also known as the city of lights. See it for yourself in the evening hours and enjoy its enchanting lights.

mind: "I'll show them who the boss is".

That is the exact impression the castle leaves upon first sight.

Take a break from walking through historical Ghent in one of the pubs or restaurants along the shores of canals.

Taste Waterzooi (a traditional fish soup)

The Castle of the Counts is one of the main attractions in Ghent.

and Ganda ham, treat yourself to Mastel (a bun with cinnamon and brown sugar), blackberry candy - Cuberdons, and superb Belgian pralines, and get some refreshment with one of the five types of excellent beer called Gruut. ď ś

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WINTER VACATION

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Recommendations

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A holiday on heavenly beaches Fall is the right time to start thinking about winter vacation. If you would like to trade in snowflakes and winter fun for a holiday on heavenly beaches in the shade of palm trees, with a plate of exotic fruit in hand, warm sand under your toes, and enchanting sunsets, here are recommendations for several destinations where that scenario awaits you: the Maldives, French Polynesia, Cuba, Mexico, the Canary Islands, Florida, Sri Lanka, Morocco... It definitely isn't easy to make a decision, but a memorable vacation is guaranteed everywhere.

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PROMO

© Lu ft ha ns aP ix el s

Take the best on your dream vacation

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t isn't a small thing when more than 18 million travelers from more than 160 countries worldwide name you the best in Europe in your branch, and that is precisely the award the Lufthansa company got in June 2017. For every professional, great success represents great responsibility so Lufthansa continues to perfect its quality and expand the network of its destinations to bring the world closer to avid travelers.

So, as of late October 2017, the company is introducing seven new magnificent destinations: Pamplona, Genova, Bari, and Catania, which can be reached

via Frankfurt, and Nantes, Glasgow, and Santiago de Compostela, which Lufthansa's airplanes will fly to from Munich. If you haven't visited them yet, it will be an excellent opportunity to visit at least one of them on a fall city break, which will break up your daily routine and invigorate your autumn days.

If you dream of summer when the winter months come to your country and would love to trade them in for the warm sand under your feet on tropical beaches, and relaxing in the shade of palm trees with cocktails and with a lot of sun, start planning your

departure to one of Lufthansa's sunny destinations now: Tampa (Florida), Nairobi (Kenya), Cancun (Mexico), Malé (the Maldives), Mauritius, Panama, the Seychelles, Tobago, Havana, Puerto Plata, Agadir (Morocco), Fuerteventura (the Canary Islands)... The selection is truly vast, and it's all up to you, and you can easily reserve your tickets via Lufthansa's website. Excellent news is also in store for March 2018, when Lufthansa will introduce regular flights from Frankfurt to San José (Costa Rica), which will especially delight fans of Central America. 

LH.com September - November 2017

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World attractions

NEW YORK (USA)

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Manhattan

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One of the most famous landscapes of the Big Apple is Manhattan, an island known as the center of business and culture in New York, but also the world. It spreads over 57 square kilometers and is a must-see part of every tourist's itinerary. Along with tall business towers of big corporations that seem to compete with their height, in Manhattan you will also find many museums, theaters, cultural attractions, and never-ending street entertainment. Just as it should be in the city that never sleeps.

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September - November 2017

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World attractions

CAPPADOCIA (TURKEY) Š fo to lia

Cappadocia Most of the lucky people who have had the chance to visit Cappadocia, famous for its incredible landscape that was shaped over millions of years by the eruptions of a now dormant volcano say the same thing - in that region in the heart of Turkey, you will have the feeling that you are on another planet or in some film. Craters, canyons, valleys, and fairy chimneys form that incredible landscape that is home to today's population, and there are hotels in the area. Cappadocia is famous for many underground cities, some of which go down to seven stories beneath the surface.

The most famous ones are Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. Explore the many passages and churches in stone, and don't miss out on a hot air balloon ride above that magnificent landscape, a must for all tourists.

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