ZAGREB, 9 June, 2021 - SDP leader Peđa Grbin said on Wednesday that the majority in the Zagreb City Assembly would definitely be formed while the SDP branch in Zagreb would be dissolved to prevent the SDP from turning into "an employment office". 

Addressing a news conference on decisions adopted at a session of the party leadership on Tuesday, Grbin said that the session focused on two topics - dissolution of the party's Zagreb branch and the course of negotiations on the formation of the majority in the Zagreb City Assembly.

"I can say with certainty that on 17 June, when the Zagreb City Assembly is to be inaugurated, the majority will be formed. The SDP considers it an obligation towards the residents of Zagreb because we know that after years of poor governance, Zagreb deserves better," he said.

He noted that talks with the winner of the local election in Zagreb, the We Can! platform, including on the post of Zagreb City Assembly president, were under way.

As for the functioning of party branches, Grbin said that the most important decision made by the party leadership yesterday was the one on the dissolution of the Zagreb branch.

He recalled that a few months ago the party leadership decided to dissolve bodies of that party branch, adding that that decision had not proven sufficient to stop some bad processes that had been happening and make sure the branch operated as it should, focusing on citizens' problems.

"... This decision concerns those who have started treating the SDP as an employment service, who want to use it exclusively for their personal benefit," Grbin said, adding that the party's purpose was to work for the wellbeing of citizens and that radical decisions such as the latest one were sometimes necessary.

He said that concrete names would be discussed within the party and at a meeting of its Main Committee on Saturday.

For more about politics Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

June 9, 2021 - A smog-eating augmented reality mural in Zagreb was revealed on World Oceans Day! 

A large sea mural has sprung up in the capital city, in the neighborhood where the streets are named after the islands. It is the result of a collaboration between WWF Adria, artist Boris Baret, animator Mate Žaja, and Duje Stojak.

On World Ocean Day, Zagreb's Sigečica district, where the streets are named after the Adriatic islands, got what it was missing - the sea! The mural titled "Give fish a chance" is special for at least two reasons. The first is that it is adorned with an additional layer of augmented reality activated by a smartphone or tablet. All you need to do is install the Artivive application for free, walk to Rapska 26b, scan the mural and bring the sea to life on the screen of your device. This is the first such mural in Croatia, and another is coming to Split.

Ante Gugic

Another special feature is the paints used, which eliminate the main pollutants present in the air (including nitrogen oxides harmful to human health) and prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and spores. The manufacturer states that an area of ​​100 square meters of this color acts like a forest of the same area. Certainly, no color can replace the services and benefits of trees, but in a city with minimal greenery per capita, it cannot rest.

The mural is part of the pan-European Fish Forward project to raise awareness of the social and environmental impacts of consuming fishery products. The sea feeds much of the world's population, and most fish stocks are overfished. The European Union is among the largest importers of food from the sea, and half imports from developing countries, where nearly a billion people depend on the sea as their main source of food and income.

Ante Gugic

Changes are not only happening in the distant oceans; they are also present in the Adriatic, which you can measure by your own experience. If you had the opportunity to dive into the sea 30 years ago and today, you know that these are two completely different worlds. This is confirmed by a group of international scientists on the island of Molat, who in recent days led by WWF Adria in search of Squatina squatina, once widely represented, today critically endangered and strictly protected species of shark.

“Due to intensive fishing, we have brought this species almost to extinction. Recently, one young specimen was caught as an accidental catch and returned to the sea thanks to a conscientious fisherman and the Pula Aquarium. It is important to know that many species face a similar fate which will also affect food security. Protection and recovery are possible by introducing measures such as non-fishing zones," says Patrik Krstinić from WWF Adria.

Squatina squatina is also on the Zagreb mural, and as it must not remain alive only as augmented reality, in the decade ahead, the responsible and sustainable use of marine resources is crucial so that we can continue to use the services they provide us.

"We take much more from the sea and much faster than 50 years ago. We do not give it time or space to recover. People depend on food production, which in turn depends on healthy habitats. That is why it is essential to protect at least 30% of the world's seas and oceans by 2030. Today, only 7% is under some form of protection, which is insufficient," concludes Petra Počanić, Fish Forward project manager at WWF Adria.

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

 June 9, 2021 - Zagreb Digital Nomad Week will take place all over the city to showcase the diversity of the city. Thursday, June 24 is Finance Day at Swanky MINT Hostel.

One of the exciting things about the upcoming Zagreb Digital Nomad Week 2021 & Digital Nomad Ambassador Project is the decision to hold the event all over the city, and in a variety of locations - hotel, coworking space, hostel and, of course, the Great Outdoors. 

An early mover in exploiting the new opportunities the digital nomad lifestyle has been Swanky MINT Hostel, arguably Croatia's most innovative hostel and travel group. Located very centrally on Ilica, Swanky has been attracting digital nomads for some time, and they managed to survive last years horrors by some smart diversification. 

Ahead of ZDNW 2021, TCN caught up with Swanky Travel Branch Manager and Travel Master, Iva Perokovic, to learn more about that, ZDNW, and the new tourism realities in Zagreb.

1. Let's start with last year. Zagreb, a pandemic, two earthquakes, a hostel. Take us through the realities of running a hostel during that crazy year.

It was a roller-coaster for sure. At the beginning of the pandemic, we were closed for a short while faced with cancelations, earthquakes and generally uncertain about the future of business. It was like a bad break up – going through the 5 phases: Shock & denial, Pain & anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance...

Nevertheless, we were active all the time introducing new ideas and trying to keep sane. We advertised vouchers for future travel, did a “Swanky Quarantine” show for Instagram, organized giveaways, filmed a virtual Zagreb tour, made special offers, and - for the first time ever -  long term stay options. We redecorated some things in the hostel and prepared for the opening following all the epidemiological measures.

During spring and summer, things got better and it felt like the worst was behind us. The best thing that happened was our long-term guests (some staying up to 5 months, some coming back even during winter) who really became a part of our Swanky family. Regarding business itself, there were not a lot of us employed so the level of teamwork skyrocketed.

2. You were one of the first to offer long-stay accommodation for digital nomads in Zagreb. How did that come about, and how successful has the initiative been?

Yes, thanks to long-term accommodation, we actually had guests all the time. Digital nomads are nothing new to us, but in the last year we really saw an increased number of people wanting to stay and work in Zagreb (freelancers, exchange students, bloggers & influencers or people who were just on “on a break” from working).

We advertised this through our own channels but also through different OTAs for long term stays offering both private rooms and dorms with extra services such as breakfast, tours and activities, laundry service, rent a bike, discounts in our bar and with many of our partners (museums, restaurants, hairdressers, …). We are also pet-friendly, so long-term guest can bring their four-legged friends.

People coming from countries with really bad covid situations and strict rules, felt a release to be in a place where there is no hard lockdown and where you can walk outside without a mask and grab a cup of coffee in the bar (since Swanky Monkey Garden was opened for the guests of the hostel)

3. As one of Zagreb's innovative tourism providers, you are at the cutting edge of tourism change in the city, and you will have had more contact with digital nomads than most. Are you seeing more nomads coming to Zagreb, and what trends are you noticing?

Digital nomads have been coming to Zagreb (and Croatia) for years but we just did not have the need to focus our marketing and sales specifically for them. Now it has became more popular with the introduction of Digital nomad Residence Permit but because of the corona situation, we feel that it did not get the appropriate attention. For now, we saw a trend in solo traveling as a nomad with friends, partners and family coming for a visit + a lot of exchange students coming for half semesters or shorter summer/winter schools.

4. The future of work is going to be very different with this shift to remote work. What are the opportunities for Zagreb's tourism providers, and how should they best prepare themselves for the opportunities?

First and most important – we all have to be flexible and follow the trends. There are things neither of us can influence on so in some cases it is actually smart to follow the rule “if you can´t beat it – join it”. Regarding both tours and accommodation, we expect private versions will be the most popular (maybe even the only option). Of course – safety first so tourism providers should really follow all the epidemiological rules and do their best to provide a safe environment. We can forget about big groups and mass tourism for a while and focus on individuals and providing real local experiences.

5. The concept and opportunity of digital nomadism is still not widely understood in Croatia, and education of the possibilities seems to be a top priority to move this opportunity forward. How do we best provide that education?

Well, a lot of things in Croatian tourism are not widely understood since we have all kinds of people and companies trying to get a piece of that cake. Tourist boards are doing their part in providing info (some more, some less) but more agencies, guides, hotels, hostels etc. should get involved and maybe bump heads in order to provide better service and aimed offer towards digital nomads. Also, we should not forget the fact that corona stepped in a way so a lot of tourism provides had other, more important things on their mind.

6. Tell us about your involvement in ZDNW and why you decided to get involved?

It is a great opportunity to meet people who think alike. Swanky has been always following trends and this one is important. Zagreb has so many things to offer and I honestly think it can become a new European digital nomad hub. This opens a lot of possibilities for new business, because Swanky can provide info, accommodation, tours and activities, meeting and networking events, parties and most important – a local friend and host.

7. Zagreb as a destination for digital nomads. Sell it to us in a sentence - why should they come here?

The question is not why – it is WHY NOT?  Zagreb is well connected to other European hubs, its safe and it is a perfect combination of traditional and modern lifestyle with a lower cost of living than most of the EU capitals and with both urban and nature parts, plus a bunch of great restaurants, bars and outdoor happening and festivals.

8. And finally, tell us a little about Swanky 2021. You guys always have something new. What do you have in store for this season?

This year we are not doing any big groundbreaking changes. We will “listen” to our guests' needs and trends in tourism keeping up with them so we can be prepared for 2022. SWANKY TRAVEL will focus on private and small group activities, especially on urbex tours . SWANKY MINT HOSTEL will keep the long-term accommodation option, open a pool during summer and offer extra value to its guests. SWANKY MONKEY GARDEN will take care of both locals and guests offering great vibe, cool music, delicious cocktails and wonderful sunny terrace.

And when this pandemic and crazy period will be finally over – we want to be here to talk about it, coming out of it smarter, stronger and richer for this life-changing experience…

#neverstopexploring #stayswanky

For more information about Zagreb Digital Nomad Week 2021 & Zagreb Digital Nomad Ambassador Project, visit the Saltwater Nomads website.

Want to Stay Swanky? Learn more on the official website.

For more news and features from the digital nomad scene in Croatia, follow the dedicated TCN section.

Follow the Swanky empire on Instagram.

• Swanky Travel 
• Swanky MINT Hostel 
• Swanky MINT Garden 

Zagreb Digital Nomad Week 2021 is a collaboration between Saltwater Nomads, Total Croatia News, Digital Nomad Association Croatia, and Zagreb Tourist Board, who are financing the project.

June 8, 2021 - From June 30 to July 2, the exciting field of information and communication technology will be at ConTEL 2021 conference in Zagreb.

With information and communication technology steadily growing, new challenges, questions and issues are opening up – both for the industry and academic community. Both industry and academia will get the chance to address the latest issues and questions at the 16th edition of the international telecommunication conference ConTEL 2021, which will take place from June 30 to July 2 in Zagreb.

As the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) at the University of Zagreb reported on its website, the goal of the conference is to encompass current and upcoming network technologies that allow omnipresent internet and communications as key starters of the connected information society.

„With new services and access networks grows the need to enhance network infrastructure - not just in terms of quality and performances, but also in terms of scalability (upgrading), mobility, energetic sufficiency, and technology integration. The Conference program will introduce the newest achievements in selected fields, through regular and specific thematic meetings and workshops“, states FER.

To ensure the quality of the conference, researchers, and scientists in this respective field, researchers and scientists were invited to submit their papers of work by March 21. The paper went under two double anonymous reviews to ensure an unbiased assessment of its importance and contribution to the conference. The selected papers will be readable on the IEEE Xplore website, and the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) is one of the key sponsors of the conference.

„IEEE and its members inspire a global community to innovate for a better tomorrow through its more than 396,000 members in over 160 countries and its highly cited publications, conferences, technology standards, and professional and educational activities. IEEE is the trusted 'voice' for engineering, computing, and technology information around the globe“, says IEEE, „the world’s largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity“ on its website.

„The format of the event will take into account the COVID-19 situation and travel restrictions. Our wish and goal is to have a live or hybrid event, with virtual participation as necessary. Stay safe and healthy, and we hope to see you in Zagreb!“, states the ConTel official website.

Learn more about Croatian inventions & discoveries: from Tesla to Rimac on our TC page.

For more about science in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

June 7, 2021 - It has been a breathtaking year on the digital nomad scence in Croatia. As the Croatian capital gears up for Zagreb Digital Nomad Week 2021 & Zagreb Digital Nomad Ambassador Project, TCN catches up with the man who set the ball rolling with that open letter to the Prime Minister - Split-based Dutch entrepreneur, Jan de Jong.

1. It is almost 11 months since you wrote the famous open letter on LinkedIn to Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic. What were your hopes and expectations back then, and how do you feel about the consequences of that letter?

When I wrote the open letter to our PM Plenkovic, I had zero expectations and really high hopes. Prior to my open letter, I had already tested the opinion of the general public about welcoming digital nomads to Croatia - through various LinkedIn posts. And the response was each time overwhelming. So, I expected a lot of support for my open letter, but that we would actually change the laws in Croatia, within such a short time period – was something I could only dream of.

2. It has been an action-packed 11 months. Can you give us three high points from the journey?

The 3 high points were definitely the invitation to meet with the Ministry of Interior, as this was the first confirmation that my request for introducing a digital nomad visa was heard. The second high point was my meeting with the Prime Minister, when he shared his support for this initiative. The third high point was January 1^st, 2021 – when the laws became active and when the first digital nomad got approved her staying permit soon after.

3. Along with Tanja Polegubic of Saltwater Nomads and Karmela Tancabel, you are a co-founder of Digital Nomad Association Croatia, with a website going live next week. Tell us a little about DNA Croatia - why did you found it, what is its purpose, and who is it aimed at?

The moment we knew that Croatia was going to be among the first countries in the world to welcome digital nomads, we decided that we wanted to have a more coordinated approach to supporting and uniting digital nomads in Croatia. This is not a job for one man/woman, so we wanted to start an association where other people can get involved in pursuing our mission. There are several stake-holders in all this: 1) The digital nomads. 2) Companies and individuals who wish to serve digital nomads and last but not least – we want to be the bridge between the digital nomad eco-system and the Croatian government.

4. You are just back from Dubrovnik, where DNA took part in the final day of Dubrovnik Digital Nomads-in-Residence, which was organised by the City of Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik Tourist Board, Saltwater Nomads and TCN. Tell us a little about the energy down there, and what Dubrovnik learned from its 10 nomadic residents.

Aside from a stunning location, amazing weather and great people, to me it feels that this event is a gathering of lots of positivity and optimism – something we can definitely use in Croatia. At an event like this, we don’t talk about the challenges we are facing in Croatia or about what could have been done better. We talk about opportunities and what needs to be done in order to fully utilize our potential of becoming Europe’s hot spot for digital nomads.

The DNiR program was a co-creation event between digital nomads and local government/tourist board. Together, they came up with a 4-A strategy: Attract, Accommodate, Amaze & Amplify.

5. The focus now shifts to Zagreb, with DNA, TCN, Saltwater Nomads and the Zagreb Tourist Board hosting Zagreb Digital Nomad Week 2021 & Zagreb Digital Nomad Ambassador Project. Tell us a little about that, and how you will be involved specifically.

The Dubrovnik Digital Nomads-in-Residence program had great energy, and I am delighted that this will be transferred to Zagreb, albeit with a very different concept. The concept is once again being framed and delivered by Saltwater Nomads, with media support from TCN and hosted and financed by the Zagreb Tourist Board. This project will have two distinct parts. From June 21, there will be Zagreb Digital Nomad Week, 7 themes over 7 days, in various locations all over the city. The key topics will be cyber security, online presence, tax & finance, wellbeing, the future of work, remote careers, and explore Zagreb.

The second part of the program will be the Zagreb Digital Nomad Ambassador Project, where six digital nomads will be guests of the city, one month at a time from July 1 to December 31. It will give us a chance to explore Zagreb as a digital nomad destinations through the seasons, with a view to learning and improving the city's offer. 

From DNA Croatia we will be involved in a similar way as in Dubrovnik. For us its important having a chance to interact with digital nomads and all other stake-holders, including the Zagreb Tourist Board, our sponsors/donors – such as Hrvatski Telekom, Raiffeisen, KPMG.

Each event brings new discoveries. We are a young association in a country for which “digital nomad tourism” is a new phenomenon. The most important thing during every single event is to keep learning and introducing new ways on how we as DNA Croatia can support & unite digital nomads in Croatia.

6. A lot of the focus on digital nomads in Croatia has been on the coast. What are your thoughts on the potential of Zagreb for nomads? What does the capital do well, and what can it do better?

I believe there is no place in Croatia where the infrastructure for digital nomads is better than in Zagreb. It is the capital city of Croatia after all. What many people don’t know is that the tourism sector in Zagreb is bigger than that of the rest of this country. Many digital nomads that are in search of great urban lifestyle and communities with like-minded people will be attracted to come to Zagreb. Luckily, knowing that Croatia offers 12-months staying permits to digital nomads, there will be plenty of time to explore different part of Croatia.

7. What are the biggest challenges, in your opinion, in developing the digital nomad opportunity?

Building strong communities is and will be the biggest challenge. Digital nomads will come to Croatia for what this country has to offer. However, they will decide to stay here as long as possible if there is a community they can join. Co-living, co-working spaces, infrastructure – this can all be created by entrepreneurs making investments. Building a community will take lots of efforts…and more time.

8. Regarding the visa, sorry permit, how many have applied so far, how many have been approved, and what level of applications do you expect once the borders fully open once more?

So far we have received 120 applications for 29 different countries. 37 applicants have been approved so far. The U.S. and U.K. digital nomads are taking a strong lead – making up for nearly half of all applications. Russians are also showing great interest, closely following the U.K.

On one hand I am happy we have the first 100+ applications. On the other hand, I was secretly hoping for more. Countries like Barbados, who did a great PR campaign right after launching their visa – got over 1.000 applications in the first month. So, compared to those results, we cannot be happy with 120 applications.

I personally believe that we as a country could have done more to promote our permit internationally. I am being told by the Ministry of Tourism and Croatian National Tourist Board that the digital nomad permit will get more attention from their side, in promoting it, after the tourism season ends.

Hopefully, around that time, it will also be easier to travel again, so we can see a rapid increase in number of applications in the second half of this year.

(Jan de Jong at the Dubrovnik for Digital Nomads conference in October 2020, with conference organiser Tanja Polegubic of Saltwater Nomads. Both are co-founders of the Digital Nomad Association Croatia)

9. Is the permit the finished article, or is it still a work in progress? The speed with which the whole processed was like driving a Rimac Nevera in the context of Croatian bureaucracy. Certain issues, such as the need for an apostille and the FBI background check proof, have caused some problems for some applicants. Are such issues open to being addressed?

The part that I am currently looking into are to make some additional legislative changes to the tax law. Currently, digital nomads are exempt from paying income tax in Croatia. We would however, like to see some additional clarity on digital nomads being exempt from paying taxes on other types of income, such as tax on capital gain, dividend tax, etc. Even though, the tax authorities stated that they would not go after such taxes, currently this is not defined by law. Together with KPMG we are looking into these open items, to make sure they are well defined.

Croatia will not waive from getting proof of no criminal record for applicants of the staying permit. Unfortunately, for some digital nomads, this is a time-consuming process to obtain such documentation, from i.e. the FBI. But if U.S. citizens who apply for the permit follow all necessary steps and take the time for their application, than I don’t see major obstacles here. This is not a problem of Croatian bureaucracy but more that of the U.S. bureaucracy.

Just to give you an example, as a Dutch citizen it would take me 30 minutes to get such proof of no criminal record at the city hall in the town where I would be registered. That is how its done in the Netherlands.

(De Jong with two of DNA's biggest corporate supporters - RBA Croatia CEO Liana Keseric, and KPDG's Kristina Grbavac - all three were panelists on the final day of Digital Nomads-in-Residence)

10. The support of private business has been excellent so far. Tell us more.

Yes, its great to see how some amazing Croatian companies have decided to support our efforts. And that in a very challenging year, where the Croatian economy was hurt severely as a result of Covid-19 and several major earthquakes. Hrvatski Telekom, Raiffeisen Bank, KPMG, Links, Younited Agency and several other companies have reached out – wanting to help and support. Hrvatski Telekom has already introduced a special proposition for digital nomads, offering unlimited, fast, mobile internet for just 60,00 kn per week – without contract obligation. It is great to see the largest telecom provider in Croatia demonstrating such leadership.

(Living the Croatian dream with and a meeting of the man who makes one very fast car)

11. And finally, what are the next steps for Croatia on its digital nomad journey?

For a change, we have the laws on our side in Croatia. The Croatian government did what it had to do to welcome digital nomads to come to Croatia. Now, we need to focus on building community, infrastructure and to promote Croatia internationally as a digital nomad hot spot in Europe. You know what they say – it takes 10 years to have overnight success. Right now, we are in year 1. I am super excited to see where we can take this in the coming decade. What it requires to turn this into a success is action today!

For more information on Zagreb Digital Nomad Week 2021 and Zagreb Digital Nomad Ambassador Project, visit the Saltwater Nomads website.

Zagreb Tourist Board Director Martina Bienenfeld interview on Zagreb Digital Nomad Week, and the digital nomad tourism opportunity for the city.

For the latest news and features on digital nomads in Croatia, follow the dedicated TCN section.

June the 7th, 2021 - New Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomasevic has been making quite the healthy habit of walking to work, citing the Croatian capital's dire financial status and three years of irresponsibility. 

As Poslovni Dnevnik writes, upon arriving to work on foot once again on Monday, new Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomasevic said that he and his associates also came to work over the weekend to try to sort thing out as quickly as possible. He made sure to note that "the financial situation is not good" in the City of Zagreb.

"This is just the result of three years of financial irresponsibility. 2019 ended with a loss of 1.3 billion kuna, without any external reasons, it's just pure financial irresponsibility. 2020 ended with a loss of ''only'' 90 million kuna, but when you look at the Covid loans handed out by the Government and the deferred claims of ZET, Zagreb Holding and (Croatian) Waters, then that loss is much higher and that is, once again, more financial responsibility, because there was no rebalance when it was needed,'' stated the capital's brand new mayor.

He also said that from what he has seen so far of the spending of the city in 2021, it's quite safe to say that this year has been a financially irresponsible one as well, not unlike the previous three - to say the least.

"The main goal is to stabilise the city's finances and analyse the cash flows on a weekly and then on a monthly basis, to revise the procurement plan so that what is not crucial is postponed. Zagreb Holding's report shows a loss of around 305 million kuna,'' he said, adding that there is no worst-case scenario to speak of just yet, and that the new city government will do its best to stabilise these finances and this truly dire financial situation so that this situation doesn't have too many consequences.

For more, make sure to follow our dedicated Croatian politics section.

June 6, 2021 - The first gluten-free brunch bar in Zagreb has opened its doors to the joy of all Celiacs in the capital city. Meet Kata! 

Whether you are on a gluten-free diet for health reasons, have Celiac disease, or are consciously thinking about what you put into your body, you've likely heard of the Croatian gluten-free brand that has made it easier for many who struggle with finding the right foods for their diet.

Namely, Journal.hr reports that Kata's gluten-free bread began operating in 2015 and quickly became recognizable in supermarket chains or small specialty stores for its products that are 100% gluten-free. Various bread, fine cakes, and biscuits quickly found their way to the desired audience and the brand soon outgrew its initial capacities.

Katarina Komarica, the founder of the brand known as Kata, turned to investors, and Luka and Iva Zovko entered the story as owners, leaving their previous careers with a clear vision of which direction they want to go. They kept the brand name and raised its philosophy to a new level, which resulted in expanding the range and the recent opening of a brunch bar in Zagreb on Petrinjska 29.

Open just two weeks, Kata Brunch Bar is already number one on the list of those needing to kick gluten out of their diet. The small restaurant shelves are filled daily with snacks such as tapioca balls or zlevka for which Kata became famous, but also vegetable cakes, salads, burek, raw cakes, biscuits, and snacks.

As Iva told Journal.hr, the brunch bar was her idea from the beginning of taking over the brand. She wanted to get out of production and be among people in direct contact with customers to get the best possible feedback as a brand. In the end, it turned out to be a hit because customers are constantly coming, calling, telling their stories, and giving Iva new ideas on how to move forward. In addition to the current offer, the range is like a living organism that changes concerning customer reactions, so they are trying gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and keto solutions, as well as lactose-free recipes and the like. The brunch bar also functions as a small specialized store of certified Croatian gluten-free products where you can buy 100% gluten-free juices, spreads, beer, dairy products, and more.

Customers return every day for their favorites, and you can also request special orders, like cakes and pastries for special occasions and even organize 100% gluten-free catering.

Kata Brunch Bar will soon expand to Martićeva Stree and is currently open at Petrinjska 29. 

For all you need to know about Zagreb in 2021, make sure to bookmark Zagreb in a Page.

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

June the 6th, 2021 - Zagreb crows usually keep themselves to themselves, rummaging around looking for food or getting into sometimes comical altercations with local pigeons. These highly intelligent birds tend to avoid people, but when they're nesting, they're known for their potential for aggression. An official warning has been issued from the City of Zagreb following numerous crow attacks on humans.

As Poslovni Dnevnik writes, The City of Zagreb has issued a statement about crow attacks on humans, stating that they have been seen an increasing number of reports about it.

Due to the increased number of reports from people about "attacks" from Zagreb crows on humans, the City Office of Agriculture and Forestry notes that these birds only become aggressive towards people and other animals in exceptional situations such as when their young in the nest are endangered or when they have accidentally dropped out of their nests. The birds then become aggressive so as to try to protect their offspring, they write.

“This is the natural behaviour of animals, so we advise people to avoid the location of the nests for a day or two until the birds fly out of the nest. In a situation when a fallen bird is found, you shouldn't approach the location, but it should be reported to the Dumovec Animal Shelter by calling: 01 / 2008-354 or by e-mailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ", They announced.

"The reason for the settlement and nesting of crows in cities is a safe and constant source of food, so we'd like to appeal at every opportunity to people and tenants in locations where Zagreb crows are active, that the environment around their houses is kept clean and that they don't throw food waste on the floor, and that kitchen waste is disposed of in designated areas. Zagreb crows are treated according to the Game Protection Programme, and in accordance with Article 9 of the Hunting Act (Official Gazette 99/18, 32/19 and 32/20),'' reads the part of the announcement on the website of the City of Zagreb.

One woman even broke her leg when trying to find off an attack by an agitated crow.

Several crow attacks have been reported over recent days, and some of these attacks have resulted in serious injuries. Mirna Grcevic broke her leg as a result of being attacked by the birds.

"It kept pecking me on the head while I was on foot and didn't give up. I was just riding my bike, and I fell onto my knees and broke my leg,'' she described for Dnevnik Nova TV.

In the last week there have been four reports of traumas after crow attacks.

"All four people are female, younger people, one minor, a knee fracture, a spinal cord injury, a wrist injury, an ankle sprain," said Stipe Corluka, a specialist in orthopedics and traumatology.

For more, follow our lifestyle section.

June 5, 2021 - The latest flight news to Croatia as Eurowings Zagreb-Düsseldorf flights resume August 31!

Avio Radar reports that German low-cost airline Eurowings will resume traffic on the Zagreb-Düsseldorf route. The line stopped operating even before the pandemic but is now on offer again, currently only from August 31 to the end of October with flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays. 

Eurowings flew non-stop on the lines from Cologne and Stuttgart with two interruptions during the pandemic in the spring and winter of last year. It is in traffic again from May 20. Eurowings currently operates 3 flights a week from Zagreb to Cologne on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, and two flights a week to Stuttgart on Thursdays and Sundays. From July 1, the same number of flights is planned for both routes as before the pandemic. Namely, there will be six flights a week from Cologne, every day except Saturday, and five flights a week for Stuttgart, every day except Tuesday and Saturday.

Last month, Eurowings announced 16 flights to Croatia, with 23 flights a week to 6 Croatian airports - Zagreb, Zadar, Split, Dubrovnik, Pula, and Rijeka. 

Eurowings will operate for the first time from the new Berlin Airport (Brandenburg) with lines to Dubrovnik, Rijeka, and Split.

The Berlin - Dubrovnik - Berlin line will run from June 27, once a week, on Sundays, with a second weekly flight on Tuesdays from early July.

The Berlin - Rijeka - Berlin line will run on Saturdays from June 26, with a second weekly flight on Thursdays from the beginning of July.

The Berlin - Split - Berlin line will run from Saturday, June 19.

Eurowings will connect Hamburg and Dubrovnik on Sundays from June 27, Hamburg and Rijeka on Saturdays from June 26, and Hamburg and Zadar on Saturdays from June 26. 

From June 28, Eurowings will increase the number of operations between Hamburg and Split to two flights a week on Mondays and Saturdays.

Eurowings will connect Dusseldorf and Rijeka on Saturdays in June and connect Dusseldorf and Pula on Saturdays from June 26.

The Dusseldorf - Split - Dusseldorf line will continue to operate twice a week in June, on Thursdays and Saturdays.

The Cologne and Split line will work on Saturdays through June.

The Stuttgart - Split - Stuttgart line runs from June 9 with a second weekly flight on Wednesdays, while Stuttgart and Zadar are connected from June 13 on Sundays.

The Dortmund - Split line will run on Saturdays and Tuesdays from June 9. 

Follow the latest on flights to Croatia HERE and the latest travel updates and COVID-19 news from Croatia HERE.

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

 June 6, 2021 - TCN's highlights of the week. A look at the events in Croatia from May 31 through the selection of TCN's reporter Ivor Kruljac. 

From significant political changes after the local elections to the losses and preparations in sport, the week was hyped by a strive for hope in Croatia. But, the tragic murder of Nino Čengić in Varaždin was a painful kick to the stomach. Here is another weekly selection of the news depicting the bittersweet life in Croatia. 

© Patrik Macek / PIXSELL

Highlights of the week: Tomislav Tomašević officially. becomes the new mayor of Zagreb

Zagreb local elections winner Tomislav Tomašević met with Jelena Pavičić Vukičević for an official ceremony of transferring power on Friday, which makes Tomašević officially the new mayor of Zagreb.

Media attention was also caught for the fact that Tomašević was four minutes late to the ceremony because he was waiting for the ambulance on Cibona because a woman fell ill in the middle of the street. But, for the bigger public interest, it's important to note today was the first time for Tomašević to have a detailed view on the financial situation of the City of Zagreb, giving him a clear picture of the debt problem Zagreb has. 

As TCN reported earlier, Tomašević told the press after the ceremony that the situation is not good, but there are solutions. Still, so far, no more details were given on the two-thousand-odd-page reports on the 2020 budget execution and preliminary figures. Additionally, the new city assembly would hold the founding meeting on 17 June.  

© Slavko Midzor / PIXSELL

Highlights of the week: Zlatko Dalić on Croatian National Football Team

The Croatian National Football Team is preparing for the friendly clash with Belgium. As reported by TCN, Zlatko Dalić faced the press on Friday ahead of the match. 

„I am satisfied with everything except the result. We had minor injury problems. We did the rest as expected, but the draw with Armenia left a bitter taste. In that game, we had to win 4-0 or 5-0, not draw 1-1. I am dissatisfied with this result. Plus, we created 5-6 percent chances, and we didn't do that in three games in a row at the beginning of the World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia, Cyprus, and Malta. We were nonchalant and irresponsible and did not realize them. We were not specific, and that is a minus“, said Dalić to the press. 

Dalić also pointed out that the national team is aware of its obligation to the Croatian people. He spoke about the problems in the national team, the pros and cons of the draw against Armenia, and the expectations from players who are dissatisfied with their status. One of them is Andrej Kramarić, who, after 20 goals scored in the Bundesliga this season, is not safe among Dalić's starters. A few days ago, he advised the media to ask Davor Šuker what he would say after such a season. 

Expectionsare big ahead of the EURO championship, and no doubt fans will pay attention with close interest. 

© Vjeran Zganec Rogulja / PIXSELL

Highlights of the week: Anđelko Stričak, new prefect

The power transfer ceremony on Friday also took place in Varaždin where Anđelko Stričak defeated current Varaždin prefect Radimir Čačić. 

„The victory is well deserved. In the past nine years as the president of Varaždin county organization of the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), and in six years as a member of the parliament, I've been to every corner of Varaždin county and talked to everybody. I heard the needs of our citizens, and I tried to solve them by cooperating with coalition partners on every level. Of course, I'm not the best, most capable or most perfect, but I will try with my team to give my best that everybody in the county feel changes for the better“, said the new Varaždin County prefect Stričak, as reported by Varaždin county's official website. 

© Sanjin Strukic / PIXSELL

Highlights of the week: Croatia Loses to Spain in the Under-21 European Championship

Spain was better than Croatia after extra time in the Under-21 European Championship quarter-final in Maribor on Monday. The match ended 2:1. As reported by TCN, Croatia was solid in the first half and threatened the Spain goal on a few occasions. Despite Spain's high pressure, Ivanušec had a chance from 20 meters in the 7th minute, and in the 23rd, Bradarić's shot was blocked by the Spain defense. Spain retaliated with a Diaz shot from 20 meters, but Croatia's defense made it difficult for them to do much more. 

The young Croatia national team fought against Spain for a spot in the semifinals. 

Igor Bišćan's side met Spain at Ljudski Vrt stadium in Maribor. 

"The guys are aware that we have a great chance, they are motivated to do something, and we are all around them to give them that chance and be supportive. They have quality," Bišćan announced before the match.  

© Vjeran Zganec Rogulja/ PIXSELL

Highlights of the week: Nino Čengić funeral in Varaždin

The Funeral of the English professor Nino Čengić who passed away last Sunday, was held on Wednesday. Nino Gengić, a substitute English professor in one Varaždin school, was brutally beaten with bats and chains in front of the local club in Varaždin called Kulturana. He was 35 years old.

As Jutarnji List reports, four suspects aged 24-29 are currently in custody while the investigation is ongoing as to what lead to this attack. Suspect's apartments were searched, and one suspect illegally possessed a considerable amount of ammo and fire weapons to match. All suspects were previously known to the police for troubling behavior, and the most tragic was the fact that 15 people witnessed the beating, but nobody stopped it.

To learn more about Croatia, have a look at our TC website.

For more about news in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.