ZAGREB, 11 January, 2022 - Vukovar had over 11,500 visitors in 2021 and 27,500 overnight stays were generated, which is an increase of 87% in arrivals and of nearly 104% in overnights stays, the Vukovar Tourist Board said on Monday.

Last year saw 70% of the arrivals and 80% of the overnight stays generated in the record year 2019, not including school trips, of which there were nearly none due to the pandemic crisis, say Vukovar tourism workers, adding that the number of visitors to memorial sites rose by about 35%.

The Vukovar Water Tower attracted more than 85,000 visitors in a year since its opening at the end of 2020, while other memorial sites in that city, jointly known as the Vukovar Nocturne, saw 40,000 visitors.

In the year ahead, we will continue with the project of quality management and with the realisation of a major project -- the construction of the Archaeological Park Vučedol, said the director of Vukovar Tourist Board, Marina Sekulić, adding that the city would so get another great tourist attraction in the near future, in addition to the Vukovar Water Tower and the Vučedol Culture Museum.

Last year, 11,349 passengers visited Vukovar on 125 river cruise boats. If the epidemiological situation does not change dramatically, it is expected that even more cruise boats will visit Vukovar in 2022 than in the record 2019, which saw 351 cruise boats arrive in that city on the River Danube.

January 8, 2022 - Meet Darko Bilandžić, the co-founder of Culex, a studio focused on the future through VR, AR, and XR.

Today’s edition presents someone you couldn’t miss if you ever visit eastern Croatia (and not only because of his height). Darko is a young entrepreneur born in Vukovar, studied and played basketball for a while in Chicago and Dallas, lived in Zagreb as well, but came right back to eastern Croatia to establish his business and start a family. He is energetic, outspoken, frustrated with the system just a little bit, but ever so positive with high hopes for the future of Croatia’s east. He is currently the director of marketing for the Vučedol Culture Museum in Vukovar (run, do not walk, to visit this magnificent place), but the reason we spoke to him was for something else.

With Mario Mikić Vučak (right), Darko started a specialised studio developing and producing unique experiences through VR, AR, and XR. This is, in his words, the future of any industry. Even though it took a while for the public to become familiar with the concepts, the general population is starting to appreciate more technologies like this. Here is what Darko had to say about it all.

Tell us about your business; what do you do exactly?

We are a specialised studio focused on developing and producing unique virtual experiences and interactive cinematic 360° video content.

The virtual world is slowly but surely merging with the real one. Diverse forms of extended reality (XR) are being applied in digital marketing, construction, architecture, healthcare, culture, tourism, sports, education, fashion, communications, and other thriving industries.

We believe that it is always a better option to actively participate in creating the future of our surroundings than being a passive bystander. Therefore, our projects thrive towards innovation, process optimisation, and new trend creation. 

Where did you get the idea, and what makes your offer unique?

We always lived in a 3D world; the transition to Virtual Reality (VR) or Augmented Reality (AR) was the logical next step for us.

We started with a VR arcade playroom back when such virtual or augmented reality content could not be found. Since we were ahead of our time, we transitioned into making interactive and unique virtual experiences.

Our projects are our signature and what sets us apart. The best thing for us is that most of our new projects come to life by word of mouth. As a result, we tend to exceed the expectations of all our clients. 

How was it setting up a business in eastern Croatia? What were the main challenges?

It was challenging, as all new and unknown areas are. It was hard to get people to understand what we do and what these VR and AR things are.

Fortunately, the shift happened, and the way we communicate with our clients today compared to just two years ago is way different, easier. In addition, people are more educated about interactive technologies such as VR and AR.

What is your perspective for the future?

The future will be very interactive.

Virtual and augmented reality are the logical next step for any industry. We can prove that with our list of clients, including marketing, tourism, culture, architecture, museums...

Do you think that the fact that you are located in eastern Croatia affected your success? 

No! Eastern Croatia is more developed than the rest of Croatia regarding the IT sector.

What opportunities are there in our city and region?

Many opportunities! We have already done many exciting projects for Vukovar-Srijem County and Osijek-Baranja county. Mostly in culture and education. There are so many amazing untold stories here in eastern Croatia that we are overwhelmed with all that can be done. So we are negotiating with different towns/cities, tourist offices to implement these modern technologies to tell their stories.

You have done projects for the city of Vukovar before. Can you describe them and tell us about your experience? 

We have done many projects for Vukovar and Vukovar-Srijem County. These are just a few of them:

Project name: Virtual Reality in Bibliobus

Technology: Virtual Reality

Concept: Culex XR Sudio, in cooperation with Vukovar-Srijem County, has set up a virtual reality project called "Virtual Reality in Bibliobus," which aims to popularize new technologies and present the cultural sights and riches of eastern Croatia.

The project uses VR technology through educational workshops in the Bibliobus (bus library), which stops in smaller rural areas and schools.

The user is introduced to 21 interactive scenes that describe cultural landmarks throughout this project.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLY-ghIlob8&ab_channel=CulexXRStudio 

Project name: Virtual Reality project by the University of Lavoslav Ružička in Vukovar

Technology: Virtual Reality

Concept: The project “Virtual Reality project by the University of Lavoslav Ruzicka in Vukovar” has made a significant step forward in modern education, not only in the territory of the Republic of Croatia but also globally. Using virtual reality technology in synergy with Culex XR Studio, the quality of education of both lecturers and students has been greatly enhanced.

Motivated by new technologies in education and learning about virtual reality, this application aims primarily at Physiotherapy and Preventive Physiotherapy students. Therefore, the university also equipped a cabinet with 11 devices.

A professor within virtual reality manages the application. Using their VR kits, students actively participate in the teacher’s lecture and independently manage the application and explore the human body in virtual reality. The app lets the user know the human body/anatomy in detail through virtual reality!

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLWhmXUvfy4&ab_channel=CulexXRStudio

Project name: Autonomous aircraft unit VR

Technology: Virtual Reality

Concept: Culex Studio had the honour of participating in creating the first Croatian virtual landmark. Project “Autonomous aircraft unit VR” was developed in cooperation with Memorial Centre Vukovar.

This virtual landmark was built in memory of the unit founder Marko Živković, pilot Mirko Vukušić, and two parachuters: Ante Plazibat and Rade Griva. Unfortunately, all of the members tragically died on their last flight on 2 December 1991.

Autonomous aircraft unit Osijek was one of the first airborne units formed in independent Croatia. They were most active during the siege of Vukovar. Their flights brought medical supplies, food, and ammo to defenders and used improvised explosives to charge enemy territories.

Our virtual simulation is based on the exhibit unit of the “Antonov An-2” model aircraft used for AAU missions. It allows you to fly with the crew on one of the 1991 flights to Vukovar. The simulation starts in the city of Đakovo, and soon after take-off, you can experience the Vukovar war zone first hand. You are in the company of pilots and two parachuters ready to deploy the supplies. At the same time, enemy forces are trying to shoot the plane down with rapid-fire.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXnALMlcLDU&ab_channel=JUMCDRVukovar

So far, we have worked with great people on significant projects in the east of Croatia, and I hope we will continue to do so.

Do you cooperate with other businesses in Vukovar / the east? If so, how has your experience been so far?

Thus far, we have not worked with other companies in Vukovar since our work is based on specific skills that we have not found locally. We did, however, do some outsourcing with people from Osijek. We are delighted with our cooperation thus far. There are some really smart and capable people in the east.

If we were to implement the Vukovar Card, would you take part?

I am sure we can arrange something!

Finally, tell us about life in Vukovar. What is it that you love the most? What would you say to all potential visitors?

Life in Vukovar and eastern Croatia is great. I have lived in Chicago and Dallas in the USA and our capital Zagreb, but I would not change it for what I have in Osijek or Vukovar.

I know people in the east are intelligent, friendly, and great hosts.

I have found all the tranquillity I need here, far from the big city noise.

I would advise everybody to visit the east and get to know our amazing cuisine and our culture. From a business perspective, I strongly recommend people come and work with the amazing talent we have here in the east.

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

December 28, 2021 - Meet Mario Ivanković, the founder of the Rolling Wheels Youth Association, who is on a mission to popularise skateboarding in Vukovar.

Following decorations, gifts, and last week's cakes and sweets, for this week’s edition of Vukovar 365, we decided it was time for creativity combined with movement and sport. And to celebrate this extreme, and to many an unusual sport entering the Olympic realms, I decided to speak to one of its rare representatives here in Vukovar.

Meet Mario Ivanković, the founder of the Rolling Wheels Youth Association, who has been on a mission to popularise skateboarding. In a bid to bring it closer to the general public and to educate the residents of Vukovar on the many benefits of always hitting your ankles with a wooden board, Mario founded Rolling Wheels with his friend Igor in 2009.

In the twelve years that have since gone by, the Association has successfully organized events and festivals, become known country-wide, and managed to convince the city of Vukovar to finance building not one, but two skateparks. Not too bad, is it? The skateboarding population in Vukovar also grew from the initial two skateboarders (you guessed it, Mario and Igor) to dozens of young and teenage boys and girls practicing this art.

With skateboarding becoming an Olympic sport, their horizons have broadened and the dynamic duo is looking to transform the Association into a skateboarding club, which would allow them to carry out more activities, and on a larger scale. Not only are there new places to spend time opening up in Vukovar, but they also help us come up with new things to do. We do advise not trying it at home, though.

Tell us about your association. How did you begin and what is it that you do? 

Rolling Wheels was founded in 2009. Our first goal, which we achieved in 2013, was to have a skatepark built in Vukovar. Other than that, we wanted to popularize skateboarding in Croatia. Extreme sports were always put aside and were considered dangerous and mischievous. Skateboards were frowned upon by the City council and Vukovar’s residents. To popularize skateboarding and present it in a more positive manner we decided to get together and organize skateboarding contests. 

What projects did you do in Vukovar, can you describe them? 

Our main project that went on from 2009 until 2018 was Vukovar Street Art. It was a one-day festival of extreme sports (skateboarding, BMX, and inline best trick contest) including alternative cultures like hip-hop concerts, graffiti workshops, and B-boying. Vukovar Street Art was special because it took place in the city center where skateboarders would show off their skills to everyone and anyone that happened to pass by. On top of that, it was the first “best trick” contest in Croatia. Every year the contest grew and had more and more visitors. 

How many people took part, where were they from? What about those who just came to observe? 

The observers were mainly locals that came with children who were more than impressed by tricks than the skateboarders themselves. It was something unusual and different since it gathered a bunch of different people from all around Croatia that did tricks on a piece of wood, so to speak. The contestants and visitors came from all around Croatia and even from Serbia, Bosnia, Germany, Slovenia, and Brazil.

How successful were you in acquiring sponsorship? 

Getting sponsors from skateboard shops and skateboarding brands was quite easy, actually. Since it was a different kind of contest everyone was down to support us. Getting the scene together was always a pleasure and the smiles on our friends’ faces were what kept us going. The difficult part was getting the financial support we needed but it always somehow ended fine. The main financial sponsor was always the City of Vukovar.

What’s in the future of the association? 

The Association is now going through the process of change. Since skateboarding became an Olympic sport, it became clear that it is here to stay. In order to join the Croatian skateboarding committee, it now needs to become a skateboarding club. To do so we must make some changes within our organization, including changing the statute. By becoming a skateboarding club, we will secure a full membership within the Croatian Skateboarding Committee and will be able to organize national cups in Vukovar.  

Are you planning new projects any time soon? 

One of our main goals for 2022 is to hold a national cup in Vukovars’ newly built skatepark. The Cup will be under the sponsorship of the Croatian Olympic Committee, more precisely the Croatian Skate Association. 

Would you be interested in working with CROMADS and taking part in the Vukovar Card initiative? 

Yes, we would. It could broaden our horizons and introduce us to some new people.

Finally, tell us about Vukovar. Why should people visit? 

Firstly, because of its rich history. The city is filled with beautiful buildings and houses and the river Danube gives it a special atmosphere. Nearby cities are also worth visiting. If you visit Vukovar you should definitely visit the City Museum, the newly renovated Water Tower, the Memorial Centre of Homeland War, and take a stroll through the city centre and the promenades along Vuka and Danube.

Where can we find you?

You can check us out on Vukovar Street Art’s Facebook page.

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

December 23, 2021 - 2022 will be a year of change for tourism in Croatia. An overview of 8 key areas TCN will be focusing its efforts on improving Croatian tourism in 2022.

2021 has been a great year at TCN, as we diversified from a news portal into some other projects. There is such potential in so many areas in this country that I am constantly surprised at how few people I see exploring the opportunities. I know a few people who laughed when a certain Dutch expat announced he was going to grow tomatoes in northern Croatia, but having seen the project develop at first hand, it is heartening to see that such ideal dreams of Jan de Jong, Jerko Trogrlic and the team at CROP Hrvatska will become a reality. 

(The Slavonian Wannabe Tomato Growers Convention with CROP Hrvatksa, Osijek, December 2021)

And once it starts, the floodgates could open. Contrary to the general media portrayal, I genuinely think that this is an incredibly exciting time to be alive in Croatia. And I leave 2021 and enter 2022 with perhaps more energy, optimism and determination than ever before since I moved here permanently back in 2003. 

Of course, Jan is a much more successful businessman than I could ever hope to be, and so my main focus in 2022 will be to develop the eco-system of sustainable tourism all over the country, 12 months a year, rather than watch the current lazy status quo which is slowly destroying Croatia's Adriatic jewels. 

It has been another completely random 12 months at TCN. Just as I never expected to be named International Medical Travel Journalist of the Year in Malaysia a year ago, so too I did not expect to be giving a keynote speech at Digital Nomad Week based out of Bali on VIP Day almost exactly a year later - you can see the first presentation of our new CROMADS platform during my online presentation above.

2021 was a year of awards and lawsuits for TCN. A total of 11 international awards for projects that we were partners in, and an impressive 3 lawsuits, the first in my life (I don't count the one publicly announced in 2018 by Mayor of Jelsa, Niksa Peronja, as it never arrived). Seven awards for the Total Croatia Travel INFO Viber community, delivered in partnership with Manjgura and Mediacor (including 3 at the Polaris Awards in London), 2 for Zagreb Digital Nomad Week with Saltwater Nomads and Zagreb Tourist Board, and 2 for Dubrovnik Digital Nomads-in-Residence program with Saltwater Nomads, City of Dubrovnik and Dubrovnik Tourist Board. 

But as nice as it was to win the awards, it was actually the lawsuits which gave me the inspiration for a new direction for TCN. If our constructive criticism was not only read by the Kings of Accidental Tourism, but bothered them so much that they were prepared to sue me for 100,000 kuna, perhaps I had a voice that was being heard further than I had imagined.  

I am certainly very grateful to the Kings for the lawsuits. Apart from being described by one journalist as the biggest PR own goal in the history of the Croatian National Tourist Board, it was also the best free promotion TCN has ever had (thank you!), as a staggering 16,000 people took part in an online poll by Index.hr after the story hit all the major news networks. 

If the Kings were that sensitive to a few words, what might happen if we publicly started pushing a few initiatives via TCN to see what stuck, and what progress we could make? The lawsuits will be entering their third calendar year next month, and you can follow progress every step of the way in our Diary of a Croatian Lawsuit feature, which will probably go on for years until we win in the European courts in Strasbourg. TCN promo budget 2022 - 2026 - tick.  

But it seems more and more people are recognising TCN and the various initiatives we are pushing to celebrate the little guy and connect the eco-system outside the crumbling walls of the Mighty State of Uhljebistan. It was an honour earlier this week, for example, to receive an invitation from His Excellency Raj Srivastava, Indian Ambassador to Croatia to the launch of the India-Croatia Startup Bridge. Even more so when the Ambassador told me he was a TCN reader and that some of our articles celebrating Croatian startups influenced his thinking on this initiative. It is a great initiative, and I look forward to TCN reporting on various successes.

Rather than just reporting on the news and blogging about the latest lawsuit postponement by the Kings (Read more in Diary of a Croatian Lawsuit: 50 Lawyers, No Secretary, No Hearing), I started to think about ways that TCN could advocate for positive change in some targeted niches. Although I am not a tourism expert, I am getting to know Croatian tourism very well and travel extensively. Meeting so many people from all walks of life has helped me form a few conclusions on how we could improve a few things. 

As we take a break for Christmas (TCN will be offline from midnight tonight until December 28), here are 8 key areas we will be focusing on in 2022, in addition to delivering you your daily Croatian news in English. 

Split Winter Tourism Roundtable

After posting a few TCN articles on the potential of Split winter tourism and questions why we no longer have much, some of the private Split tourism operators came up with a suggestion that TCN host a winter tourism roundtable, inviting all key stakeholders (including the Mayor of Split, Split Dalmatia County, regional and city tourist board director, Split Airport, State Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, GMs of Split's 5-star hotels, representatives from the restaurant, hotel, hostel and MICE sectors, and tourism consultants) to have an open exchange of ideas in search of a way forward. 

Not only did everyone invited come, but they all engaged and left an excellent lunch at CHOPS Grill with the desire to try. We meet again in January. Special thanks to Jasmina Kruscic, Jelena Tabak, Mare Mustapic, Daniela Rogulj, Mario Seric and MIchael Freer for pushing this initiative. Let's see 2022 deliver the first results.  You can read more in Reflections on the First TCN Split Winter Tourism Roundtable. 

Vukovar Card and Vukovar 365, Full of Life

How many of you have been to Vukovar on any other date than November 18?

Having been to Vukovar Remembrance Day in 2019 and 2021, as well as several other visits, I came up with a suggestion called the Vukovar Card, a chance for people who change their Facebook status every November 18 for a day to do something more concrete (Vukovar Card: Support Local Economy Rather than Temporary Facebook Status). I was very grateful for the positive reaction and support of regional tourist board directors Ivana Juric and Rujana Busic Srpak, who devised a Vukovar Card 7-day itinerary through the magic of Vukovar Srijem and Osijek Baranja Counties. I sent this to Minister of Tourism Nikolina Brnjac and State Secretary Tonci Glavina with a request for a meeting to develop the concept. 

That meeting will take place on January 10 at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and I was encouraged by Tonci's positive initial feedback at the Split winter tourism roundtable.  

If you are interested to know more about the new Vukovar and the people and businesses framing a brighter future, follow the TCN series, Vukovar 365, Full of Life, with new TCN writer Katarina Andjelkovic from Vukovar.

Digital Nomads

The growth of the Croatian digital nomad story has been one of the highlights of my year. So much positive energy, innovative ideas, fabulous people and unforgettable experiences - it has been a privilege to be part of the journey. Working with Jan de Jong, Saltwater Nomads, the Digital Nomad Association, the Digital Nomads Croatia Facebook group,  Swanky Travel, Zagreb Tourist Board, the City of Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik Tourist Board, Doma Zagreb Aparthotel, and others has been one of the undoubted highlights of 2021. Zagreb Digital Nomad Week & Ambassador Program and Dubrovnik Digital Nomads-in-Residence program complemented Jan's visa initiative and has helped put Croatia well and truly on the digital nomad map.

2022 will be more of the same... and more. Exciting initiatives in both Zagreb and Dubrovnik will be announced in early 2022, and if we can dot the Is and cross the Ts on a couple of other projects, things could get very interesting. It seems that next year will have me travelling internationally to promote the Croatian digital nomad story, with Digital Nomad Festival in Turkey in May, and Digital Nomad Summit in Bali in September already in the diary.  

Medical tourism and digital nomads

2022 will see the 10th anniversary of my favourite conference in Croatia, the annual Crikvenica International Health Tourism conference in Crikvenica. CIHT has been good to me over the years, giving me my first exposure to the global medical tourism community (and leading to those awards in Malaysia). The pioneering work of Ognjen Bagatin and the Kvarner Health Tourism Cluster have placed Croatia firmly on the medical tourism map, and after the major blip that is the pandemic, it is time to renew efforts. You can read a report on CIHT 2021 in Kvarner Full of Health Tourism Opportunity, as CIHT 2021 Shines.

A major new medical tourism opportunity has presented itself since 2019, one which I will be pushing hard - digital nomads. Rather than having to work hard to attract foreign patients to come to Croatia for treatment, why not instead spend less energy informing all the nomads who are already here how Croatian medical tourism can fix their medical issues at a fraction of the price back home. No need to travel, for they are already here. 

The potential of the Kvarner region for health tourism is huge, and there is a much underutilised airport on Krk, Rijeka Airport. An issue I will also discuss with Minister Brnjac on January 10, as she is a transport expert.  

Spreading the Truth about Slavonia, Full of Life

The biggest surprise of 2021 for me was not only how full of life Slavonia is, but how ignorant the rest of Croatia is about what is really out east in their own country. I was shocked at how few of my Zagreb friends who are among the 200,000 Croats who go skiing abroad each year had ever been to Slavonia and the East. With such little local knowledge, how can we expect tourists to know?

Lots of activity coming next year on this, including a fun survey on the streets of Zagreb to highlight the gap in knowledge. Here are two questions from the survey to get you in the mood. How many of you can answer both:

1. What is the main town in Baranja?

2. Can you name three famous buildings in eastern Croatia, not including the Vukovar Water Tower? 

Want a taster of what you are missing? Read more in Time to Tell the Truth about Slavonia Full of Life. 

Danube Drone Days

What happens when you meet an English businessman over breakfast at your hotel in Osijek in November?

Sometimes it leads to a night of sushi and gin in the company of the CEO or Orqa, three drone geeks, and a plan to promote Slavonia and the Danube with some of the best drone pilots in the world. 

 I love the concept of Danube Drone Days, and I am looking forward to working with these two geeks above to make it a reality.  

CROMADS

Our new baby. What more can I say, but watch the official promo vid above, and check out www.cromads.com after Christmas for more. This is going to be fun.  

Total Croatia Travel Portal

2021 also saw TCN launch its sister site, Total Croatia, a multi-lingual tourism information platform answering the questions people are asking. Launching in May, I was perhaps a little ambitious wanting to be the leading portal by the summer, but we are working hard behind the scenes to make sure Total Croatia's first full year in 2022 will be a big one. You can check it out here. 

And that - more or less - is that. If you are interested in getting involved to build the eco-system outside the crumbling walls of the Mighty State of Uhljebistan, drop me a line at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Subject TCN 2022, explaining how you can help and what you can offer. 

Enough from my side, except to thank you all for your company, interest and support in 2021. We have a great readership, and I even enjoy the contributions of the trolls these days. 

Things are starting to move slowly but surely. The default negative mindset is being challenged by new ideas and shoots of positivity. Croatia is a great country with a really bright future once we overhaul the current system. 

And you will be able to read all about it on TCN in 2022. 

Cheers!

TCN will be offline from midnight tonight until December 28. Merry Christmas to All. 

December 18, 2021 - In today’s edition of TCN’s Vukovar 365 series, meet Lidija Mlinarević, the owner of Slatkoteka, a sweet shop in the Vukovar city centre.

So many times have I heard my friends and acquaintances complain of nowhere to sit down for cake and tea. Lidija is still in the process of acquiring her license to be able to offer a place to sit down, but the cake is ready. Her offer includes traditional recipes, as she says “from our grandmothers”, which are usually rich in walnut and butter and never fail to bring back memories of warm winter nights by the fireplace. Though she built her business on that idea, Lidija does also provide some modern little treats, including cupcakes, cake pops, letter cakes, modelled cakes, desserts on the go, and more. She is always happy to listen to her clients and bake the most delicious and stunningly decorated cakes for various occasions.

She was happy to take some time out of her incredibly busy day and share her thoughts and opinions with TCN.

Tell us about your business, what do you do exactly?

I sell cakes and sweets, including custom-baked and decorated cakes for any occasion.

Where did you get the idea and what makes your offer unique?

I would not really call this an idea, but rather a calling. Some people dream of becoming doctors, police officers, some are called to serve God, while I wanted to become a baker since I was little. The offer is unique not only in our city but in a wider area, because it focuses on traditional recipes of our grandmothers instead of a more modern approach.

What was it like starting a business in Vukovar? What were the main challenges?

In short, Vukovar is my city. I am a mother of two beautiful little girls and I wanted to make sure I inspire them to love the city just as much as I do, along with all its traditions and history. That is where it all started and eventually resulted in me deciding to start my business here. The challenges were your standard clerical little quirks, but it was all worth it.

Are you satisfied with how your business is developing? What is your perspective for the future?

I would dare say that I am more than satisfied considering the fact that my business has only been open for a few months, though the paperwork is a bit tough. As for the future, I truly can see how much this city offers and I can see so many opportunities in general, but even more so in the tourism sector.

Do you think that the fact that you are in the east of Croatia influenced your success?

I would not say so. The location has nothing to do with it. I really believe that if you love something and give it your all, success is guaranteed. 

What opportunities are there in our city and region?

There are opportunities to develop our economy, especially focusing on tourism and gastronomy. We have got such a rich cultural heritage. In our region, I would say Osijek is an excellent example. Rural tourism was developed in a very clever way there. If there were opportunities to connect and create itineraries that would get tourists to experience both Vukovar and Osijek, that would certainly create a better offer and ensure that our visitors stayed for longer periods.

What is your view on other small businesses in Vukovar?

Firstly, I would like to say that I never really viewed them as competition, but I was quite surprised when owners of businesses similar to mine came up to me to start some kind of cooperation. I am happy to work with others.

If we were to implement the Vukovar Card, would you participate and offer our guests discounts or special packages?

I would love to take part! I think that is an excellent, clever, and much-needed incentive.

Finally, tell us something about life in Vukovar. What do you like most, what would you say to all potential visitors?

One thing that I love the most about my city is the fact that I can really see my future and my families’ future here. It is a city with perspective and there is so much to learn and do.

Where can we find you?

My shop is located on Ulica I.G. Kovačića 3 in Vukovar. You can also find me on Facebook – Slatkoteka Vukovar and Instagram @slatkoteka_vukovar. 

For more on lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

ZAGREB, 16 December, 2021 - A contract was signed on Wednesday between the Vukovar Port Authority and the IGH Institute for making project documentation for a vertical waterfront at the Vukovar Port worth €1.67 million.

The project is being co-financed with EU grants, which account for 85% of the funding, while the remainder will come from the state budget. The project should be completed by 31 March 2024.

"When the project is completed, we will have 300 metres of a new vertical waterfront at the Vukovar port. To date, we have signed a contract for project management and today we have signed a contract for project documentation with a consortium of bidders comprising IGH, KPMG Croatia d.o.o. and the Vodoprivredni Projektni Biro from Zagreb", the port's acting director, Iva Horvat, said.

The document should result in the issuance of building permits, after which we will apply for EU funds required for construction, she added.

"The idea is to construct 300 metres of a new vertical waterfront at the Vukovar Port that will be connected to the railway infrastructure by building new industrial tracks, as well as with the road infrastructure by building access roads. A new handling area and warehouses should be built as well," she said, adding that this would enable ships to dock regardless of the River Danube's depth.

IGH management board president Robert Petrosian said that the project is part of a broader development project for the port along the Rheine-Danube corridor.

The head of the inland navigation office at the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, Duška Kunštek, said that this was a strategic project for Slavonia's development.

Vukovar Port is the only river port in Croatia. It is located on the right bank of the Danube River and enables navigation throughout the year.

The port covers an area of about 19 hectares, with 2.68 hectares used by concessionaires. The four-berth waterfront is 450 metres long. With its current capacity the port handles between 1,200,000 to 1,500,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

December 12, 2021 - Last week we introduced a new TCN series exploring talented local businesses in Vukovar, with innovative and persistent owners behind them with the right mindset for Vukovar's future. This week, meet Cvjetni Studio Čarolija. 

Cvjetni Studio Čarolija is a small flower studio in the city centre, run by two amazing, ambitious and incredibly hard-working young women.

Neither Mirjana nor Dijana had any formal education or experience before they started their florist business and, as they say, decided to go based on their instincts and pure passion. In the meantime, they did acquire formal education and now hold certificates, but they achieved so much more. In the past three years, they have gained the trust of Vukovar's residents and there is not a person in this city who doesn't know about their studio. Besides building flower arrangements, they decorate venues, events and festivals, and create personalised gifts working together with other Vukovar's creatives and businesses. They have also done projects for the city and its tourism board, including the magnificent autumn fair held in September 2021.

Čarolija (Magic) is what they call their studio, and there is no denying their magic touch. 

This is the kind of passion and energy that will drive Vukovar, including its tourist offer, forward, and I was delighted to speak to Mirjana.  

Tell us about your business, what do you do exactly?

We are a Flower Studio and we design flower arrangements, bouquets and decorations from living and fresh flowers, as well as dried and artificial. In addition to that, we also offer decorations for various ceremonies such as weddings, christenings, birthdays, and all other celebrations. We also make personalized frames with prayers, graduation celebration texts, etc. Other than the mentioned, you can also find various gifts such as chocolate cakes and pralines, special gifts for newborns, savory and sweet packages that often include a few bottles of alcoholic beverages to cheer up our stronger halves. 

Where did you get the idea and what makes your offer unique?

Primarily the idea came about because we had nowhere to buy any of the above when we needed it. So, we made the decorations and gifts ourselves. Realizing that something like this was missing in our city, we first did a floristry course, passed the exam in the Chamber of Crafts and then embarked on this little journey. What makes us unique? Hmm, simply put, everything we do. We are not a classic flower studio with a classic offer. We can really find something for everyone, and when clients come to us with an idea that we haven't tried so far, we don't turn them down, in fact, we really look forward to creating something for them. Our studio itself is different from anything you can see in Vukovar, so often people come to us just to see “what we made of the space now".

What was it like starting your own business in Vukovar? What were the main challenges?

It is not enough to say that it was challenging. However, we are one of those who really do not give up easily so we have successfully overcome all the obstacles so far. One of the bigger challenges was finding a space where we could open our own studio. When we resolved that, everything else somehow just came together. With the support of our families and their help, we put everything in order very quickly. Our clients quickly recognized us as something valuable in the market and we did not have any difficulties in this segment either.

Are you satisfied with how your business is developing? What is your perspective for the future?

We really are. Although I am by nature never completely satisfied, I always think that something can be better, I would dare say that is not a bad thing. During the first year of our existence, we managed to hire our first employee. In the future, we hope and want to expand our business to some other segments, hire at least one more person and provide something good again for Vukovar. We also hope that the cooperation with all our fellow entrepreneurs will continue but also expand. For now, we are cooperating really well, but good things can always be improved.

Do you think that the fact that you are in the east of Croatia influenced your success?

Yes and no. Eastern Croatia has its advantages, but unfortunately also its disadvantages. I got the impression that it would take us much longer to be recognized in the market if we were in another part of Croatia, even though we are followed by people from all over the country. On the other hand, if we were in a bigger city, maybe the demand would be so high that we would already have more employees, more space to work and more clients. We are really pleased with what we have brought to the east and that the east of Croatia has recognized us in turn.

What opportunities are there in our city and region?

So many! Both Vukovar and our region are not just about the war. We are a city of joy, friendship, companionship, love, work and so much more. Vukovar and its surroundings have positive young people who are eager for progress and change. We still need some restaurants, pastry shops especially, where you can sit and eat some fine cake, drink a cup of hot tea and simply enjoy life. We do lack some places where we can relax and enjoy our free time.

What is your view on other small businesses in Vukovar?

I see them as great support. We recently had a gathering where the need was expressed for this support that we provide to each other. Most of us have the same problems and it's easier when you know you're not alone. By buying from each other, we give each other support and express how much we appreciate the local products in Vukovar.

If we were to implement the Vukovar Card, would you participate and offer our guests discounts or special packages?

Of course. Vukovar Card is something that would further connect us and encourage people to shop locally.

Finally, tell us something about life in Vukovar. What do you like most, what would you say to all potential visitors?

Vukovar is one of the most beautiful cities in eastern Croatia. We have a lot to offer no matter what others think. We have beautiful museums that you simply must visit, great family farms that have top local products, a lot of creative people who run their own shops and crafts. Finally, I have to mention the promenades along the Danube, as well our park forest Adica which you can visit and rent bikes to cycle around and see some beautiful nature.

Where can we find you?

Our shop is located in Ulica K. A. Stepinca 9, in Vukovar.

You can also find us via our Facebook page Cvjetni studio Čarolija Vukovar and our Instagram carolijavukovar. 

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

December 9, 2021 -  What if it was possible to support Vukovar economically rather than just emotionally, while having an incredible discovery of eastern Croatia. Meet the proposed Vukovar Card and itinerary. 

The idea is simple, and it puts money into the Vukovar economy, allows Croatians from all over the country and the diaspora to have a direct connection and contribution to the Vukovar today, as well as having one of the most incredible weeks of discovery of a part of Croatia that few know about in details. Here is a detailed look at my recent 6-day trip to eastern Croatia in November. It was one of the best weeks of my 18 years in Croatia.

I presented the concept of the Vukovar Card recently in Vukovar Card: Support Local Economy Rather than Temporary Facebook Status.

The concept is simple.

Vukovar is a very emotive issue for all Croatians after the events of 1991, and November 18 sees an outpouring of emotion each year, as Facebook statuses are changed to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. 

While emotion and remembrance are appreciated in Vukovar, there is zero economic impact for a region which is suffering economically more than the rest of Croatia. 

Many Croatians have never been east and have little knowledge of the magic they are missing out on. 

The Vukovar Card provides a partial solution to that. 

Once in a lifetime, rather than heading to the beach for that 2-3 week holiday, take 7 days to head on east instead. Go and meet the people of Vukovar, drink in their cafes, eat in their restaurants, and enjoy a fabulous 7-day tour of eastern Croatia that will literally blow your mind and wonder how you have been missing out on all this for so long. 

Once you take the tour, you receive the proposed Vukovar Card. It is proposed that the Vukovar Card is like a loyalty card (a little like the ill-fated Cro Card). Hotels, restaurants and bar owners on the coast, can all play their part to boost the Vukovar economy by offering a 10% discount on selected services by bearers of the Vukovar Card. 

Nothing more complicated than that. 

I pitched the idea to the two regional tourist board directors, Ivana Juric of Osijek-Baranja County, and Rujana Busic Srpak of Vukovar Srijem County, and they were both supportive of the concept. I asked them to prepare a sample 7-day itinerary that would show that, far from being charity, the Vukovar Card was actually a great way to stimulate tourism in the east and give participants a genuinely amazing tourism experience. I told them that if they came up with the itinerary, I would make an appointment to present the concept to Minister of Tourism and Sports, Nikolina Brnjac, to see if we could get national support for the initiative. 

This is what Ivana and Rujana put together.  I am emailing Minister Brnjac later today. 

Proposal for visiting Croatian Danube region: Srijem and Slavonia and Baranja

Day 1

08.00 – departure from Zagreb

10.30 – Syrmian breakfast, restaurant Aquarius, Bošnjaci

11.30 – visit brandy tasting room Matkova pecara, Bošnjaci (announcement required)

Option: Forestry Museum in Bošnjaci

12.30 – visit to Gradište, Snašini kućari – tour of the estate, presentation of old crafts and traditional architecture (announcement required)

lunch

14.00 – visit to Otok, Bio-ecological centre Virovi: walk on the educational trail, kayaking, canoeing, cycling

16.00 – Nijemci, ride on the tourist boat Sv. Katarina from the centre of Nijemci according to the desired direction (reservation required)

18.00 – Vinkovci, tour: Vinkovci Town Museum, Birth house of Ivan Kozarac, overnight stay

Day 2

09.00 – visit to Vukovar

09.30 – Tour of the Eltz castle

10.30 – War hospital museum

11.30 – Franciscan museum

12.30 – Ride on the Danube

13.30 - Lunch, recommendation: „Lola“

14.30 – 16.30 – Afternoon city tour: Zadruga Vrhunsko vukovarsko, Vukovarsko pivo, Street art

16.30 – Vučedol Culture Museum

17.30 – Tour of the Memorial house Ovčara

18.00 – Departure to Ilok

19.00 – dinner

20.00 – Tour and tasting: Wineries/Vinarija: Ivan Čobanković, Papak

Ilok, overnight stay 

Day 3

09.00 - A tour of the medieval core of Ilok: the church of St. Ivana Kapistran with the monastery, Ilok Interpretation Center, Ilok City Museum

11.00 - Tour of Ilok cellars: tasting

12.30 – Lunch, recommendation restaurant of the hotel Dunav

14.00 – Principovac

Departure to Osijek-Baranja County 

NOTE: the program is proposed in a way to visit the key attractions and experiences of Vukovar - Srijem County in 3 days. The proposed facilities can be visited for a longer, more relaxed period of time, according to the choice of the traveller.

Day 4.

16.00 Arrival in Osijek, check in Hotel Osijek 4* / Guesthouse Maksimilian 3* / Hotel Boutique Tvrđa 4* / Hostel Stara Pekara (or other)

17.30 Sightseeing of the city centre: discovering Picasso along the most beautiful river promenade in Croatia, Bridge of Youth, finding traces of Freemasonry and tour of Co- Cathedral; local craft beer tasting (Von Becker’s, Runda, Beertija, Gajba, etc.)

20.00 Dinner Crna svinja (meat), Čepin / Slavonska kuća (traditional), Osijek / Lumiere

(international, city center), Osijek / Hotel Osijek – Zimska luka restaurant (international,

city center), Osijek / Čingi lingi (traditional), Baranja-Bilje / or other 

Day 5.

8.30 Breakfast

10.00 Kopački rit Nature Park – Heart of the Danube, boat ride, interpretation centre or

boardwalk stroll, https://pp-kopacki-rit.hr/index-en.html

11.00 Tikveš castle sightseeing

12.00 Visit to Asztalos Art Ceramic Atelier, Suza; option: workshop can be arranged

https://www.facebook.com/Asztalos-Keramika-113478782041244/

12.30 Discovering the typical style old wine cellars in Zmajevac village

Wine tasting and lunch, Josić winery, http://josic.hr

14.00 Batina Battle Memorial Complex / WW II - Red Army

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Batina

Sightseeing point over the Danube and three countries - Croatia, Serbia, Hungary

15:00 OPG Matijević family farm in Suza village, tasting of local products with PGI certificate, http://www.kulen-matijevic.hr/

15.45   Belje wine road in the Bansko brdo hill, rolling wine yards and the breath-taking views of southern Baranja and Osijek in the background

16.30 Arrival to Osijek, break

19.00 Sightseeing of the Tvrđa, old town

Other options for Baranja:

• Village “museum” - Ulica zaboravljenog vremena / Street of forgotten time, Karanac

https://www.baranjska-kuca.com/

• Lunch in Baranjska kuća in Karanac (traditional), https://www.baranjska-kuca.com/
• Lunch in Hotel Lug (top chef), https://hotellug.hr/
• Vinarium Borarium, Zmajevac – collection of Baranja’s wine history
• Guided hiking on Bansko brdo with “Landranje team”

(https://www.facebook.com/LandranjeBaranjom/)

• Discovering Zlatna Greda, the forest lodge with adrenalin park and picnic site in the nature park Kopački rit, http://zlatna-greda.org/en/

Day 6.

Erdut-Aljmaš-Dalj area:

8.30 Breakfast

Milutin Milanković Cultural and Scientific center, http://www.milutin-milankovic.com/

10.30 One of the family run boutique wineries / Antunović – Dalj (https://vina-antunovic.hr/?lang=en) , Brzica – Erdut (https://www.brzica.com/), Magistra – Erdut (https://www.facebook.com/Vina-Magistra-286222865311970, Siber – Erdut (https://vinasiber.com/), Danubio (https://www.danubio.hr/, offers accommodation), Janečić (https://vinarija-janecic.hr/)…

12.00 Visit to Erdut vineyards / Erdutski vinogradi, historic wine estate

https://www.erdutski-vinogradi.hr/index.php/en/

Visit to Erdut tower

Lunch – OPG Etno kuća Stari dud / Zlatica Blagojević

https://www.facebook.com/etnokuca.staridud.1

Visit to Aljmaš – pilgrimage site, Lady of Shelter, Marian shrine since 1704 

Return to Osijek, free time

Day 7.

Đakovo:

Breakfast

9.30 State stud farm Đakovo – Ivandvor, http://ergela-djakovo.hr/en/about-us/ivandvor-2/

10.30 Visiting sacral cultural heritage - Cathedral of St.Peter 

http://tzdjakovo.eu/index.php/en/znamenitosti/muzeji/item/34-st-peter-s-cathedral?rid=175

State stud farm Đakovo – the stallion station, http://ergela-djakovo.hr/en/about-us/stallion_station/ 

Lunch, departure

Optional: visit to Wine cellar of Đakovo-Osijek Archdiocese and to family-owned wineries in Trnava and Mandićevac wine area surrounding Đakovo (fantastic views!). In case of visit during spring and summer we recommend also visit to Borovik lake.

I have personal and recent experience of just how amazing eastern Croatia is on a 6-day tour. Learn more in Time to Tell the Truth about Slavonia Full of Life.

It’s been 35 years since Dylan Dog made his first appearance in Croatia. An exhibition dedicated to the popular comic series opens in Vukovar on December 8th, 2021

Here at TCN we’re well aware there’s plenty to see in eastern Croatia all year round. That being said, we still get an occasional surprise - it’s not every day that you see Dylan Dog and Vukovar in the same sentence.

It’s been 35 years since Dylan Dog was first introduced to Croatian readers, just one year after its first Italian edition published in 1986. It soon gained a cult following and remained massively popular in Croatia to this day. 

To celebrate the 35th anniversary of the beloved comic series in these parts, an exhibition of selected illustrations and notable Croatian editions of Dylan Dog is being put up in the Vukovar Municipal Museum. 

It’s worth noting that some of the works on display feature well-known landmarks from the Croatian capital, such as the Zagreb cathedral, the Cibona tower and the iconic Džamija!

The exhibition was first displayed in Zagreb earlier this year, organized by the association Crtani Romani Šou in collaboration with the Italian Institute of Culture. It’s now heading to eastern Croatia, to the beautiful Eltz Manor that houses the Vukovar Municipal Museum. 

The exhibition opened today, December 8th. It will remain on display until January 8th, 2022 and can be visited free of charge.

Vukovar Municipal Museum

Address: Dvorac Eltz, Županijska ulica 2, Vukovar

Working hours: Tuesday - Sunday 10am to 6pm

December 6, 2021 - In our new TCN series, we meet the Vukovar businesses that are changing the landscape of the city. First up, introducing Ella Design. 

Vukovar, oh Vukovar. What comes to mind when you hear the name? Most likely war, the parade, the memorial museums. Its citizens are leaving, searching for a better life in Ireland, Germany, Austria. Fortunately, that is not all it is. It is a living breathing city, full of wonders and full of amazing people with passion and a vision for a bright future right here. The thing is, not many people realize how much potential there is in a place that is now brand new. How many smaller cities (bigger, too) can show off their refurbished baroque facades, perfectly maintained parks and greenery, strategically grown all around the city centre to allow for walks of several kilometres along the river? New infrastructure, housing, and roads? A 10-minute drive or a pleasant walk to get anywhere? An abundance of schools and kindergartens? What a dream. And yet, rarely is this a picture that is painted. There is tradition, culture, gastronomy, you name it. And with the implementation of Vukovar Card, outlined here who knows where we can go? Though the challenges are numerous, so are the advantages. 

In this edition, we will discuss business, ideas, perspectives. 

Running a small business anywhere in the world is quite a challenge. Doing so in Croatia is a slightly bigger one. Starting from scratch and running one in the east of Croatia, in Vukovar – mission impossible. Or is it? In a series of interviews, we present some excellent businesses in Vukovar. We talk to the owners to see how they are doing at the moment, the challenges they are facing, and their plans for the future. We also discuss the Vukovar Card idea with them to see what they think and if they would be willing to take part. Let their stories inspire you to visit and shop their products in Vukovar! 

Today we present Ella Design, a family-run creative design business. The owner, Lidija Azinović, is a bubbly personality with lots of stories to share and ideas to discuss. Her family's way into this was not very straightforward, but eventually, Lidija and her husband, who is now her employee, decided that it's worth pursuing a hobby if you love it.  They built a successful business selling personalised gifts such as picture frames, hanging decorations, and keychains. All their products are custom designed and made by Lidija and Kristijan in their home in Vukovar. Even though the times are quite challenging with the price of materials having gone up 100% for some, they keep a smile on their faces and a more than positive outlook with ambitious plans for the future. After our conversation, I had a sudden urge to go home and create something, start a business, be colourful, imaginative. I'm much better at writing though, so for now, I will only share what Lidija said to some of my questions:

Tell us about your business - what do you do exactly? 

I am the owner of Ella Design, more specifically the brand “Mamine Ručice” (Mother’s Little Hands), and I make custom gifts for various occasions. The materials that I use include wood, MDF panels, different kinds of plywood, acrylic sheets, etc. We cut the shapes out with a CNC laser and then sand, paint, put together, and pack by hand.

Where did you get the idea and how did you begin? 

I got the idea when I gave birth to my little daughter Ella as I was searching for something to decorate her room. Two months later, my husband and I created our first MDF wall decor and handed it as gifts to our little friends at my son Leon’s birthday party. Back then we did not have a laser but used my father-in-law's manual CNC machine which was, you can imagine, slow and tedious. We managed to surprise our friends and family who immediately wanted to order more! And so it began.

What makes your product unique?

I think that our offer is quite unique in the sense that it is really wide-ranging and customizable. I really dove deep into the idea of setting up a business and used all the advantages that I had. We did not need to rent space since we had some spare rooms in our house. Also, I made sure that my products are available outside of Vukovar in all of Croatia. 

How was it setting up a business in Vukovar? What is your outlook for the future? 

I am really pleased with the way we were able to set up our business, conduct it and grow so far. The fact that our efforts are seen even outside of Croatia makes me so happy. I am looking forward to all future projects and collaborations and I think that we will soon expand our business. 

Do you think that the fact that you are located in eastern Croatia affected your success?

The fact that we are located in the east did not affect our business in any significant way. I truly believe that the things that matter for success include willpower, desire, and hard work. With these combined, success will come your way no matter the location. 

What opportunities are there in our city and region? 

The opportunities in the city, as well as the region, are numerous, with a good business plan and vision, any business owner can create an amazing story of their business. I believe that it is important to connect with the city, the county, as well as the end client. Long-term success is not about how much money you make, but about how well connected you are and how much you matter to the community. 

What is your view on other small businesses in Vukovar? 

I liaise with other business owners, I buy their products and use their services because I want to encourage them and support their work and effort. Those who really try I support through my social media accounts, I praise their effort and recommend them to my followers. They do the same for me, creating an amazing circle of positivity. I see them as my partners and not competition. 

If we were to implement the Vukovar Card, would you take part and offer our guests discounts or special packages? 

The idea is excellent! I would be more than happy to take part in order to boost the local economy and connect with other stakeholders and express our support in such a way. To make it all worth it, we would be happy to offer discounted prices of our products for the holders of Vukovar Card. 

Finally, tell us about life in Vukovar. What is it that you love the most, what would you say to all potential visitors? 

I love everything about Vukovar! I love the fact that there is more to our city than war tourism and that is slowly but surely coming out to the surface. An excellent offer of restaurants, wine, museums. Vukovar is a place that is only about to reach its peak and our generation will make sure that it does soon. 

Where can we find you? 

On my Facebook page “Mamine Ručice” and my Instagram - mamine_rucice.

Welcome! Hopefully, you can find something you’ll love. 

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.