EU means better future for Croatia's tourism

Croatian Times

The historical "yes" Croatians gave to European Union membership at this month’s referendum could mean good things for the country’s tourism, sector experts believe.

That even better (tourism) days are on the horizon for EU-bound Croatia think many hotel owners and tour operators. The director of German ID Riva tours Selimir Ognjenovic, for example, thinks that the referendum outcome sent a good signal to German visitors.

"The German public, ordinary people, appreciate Croatia’s "yes" at a moment when the EU is not in its best shape. That’s interpreted as an outstretched hand of a partner, and not an attempt for Croatia to add weight to other’s shoulders," Ognjenovic says. The budding amiability toward Croatia could make a German or two that hasn’t vacationed there consider spending the summer by the Adriatic.

The head of Kompas travel Ivan Puskar is equally optimistic.

"All countries that joined the EU experienced an improvement in tourism, I believe so will Croatia," says Puskar. Once Croatia enters the Schengen area, things will get even better with less hassle on the borders. Some also say that the referendum "yes" also meant commitment to hospitality standards EU citizens expect.

The owner of Hotel Baska on Krk island, Mario Jantol, has some reservations, however.

"EU is not good news for our tourism on its own. The success primarily depends on us, how we prepare ourselves for the season."

Croatia had a spectacular season last year, thanks to many factors including a long-lasting summer. Few are confident that this season can top the excellent numbers.

Many of the sector’s businessmen are cautious about premature optimism.

"This year will be complicated for the tourism sector," says Kristijan Sustar from the hotel owners' association. "Regardless of the "spectacular" media predictions, it is too early to celebrate because we have to be focused and responsible to achieve last year's results," says Sustar.