Some markets have an increase of 20% while some are currently stagnating, but we expect them to catch up with last minute bookings just before high season, says minister Kliman
According to Croatia’s Minister of tourism Anton Kliman, who was interviewed by Croatian National Television on March 27, 2016, Croatia is expecting half a million tourists more than in 2015 and half a billion kuna more in profits. However, the budget for advertising and promotional activities has been reduced by 30%. This fact is still not worrying the hotel and tourism industry, and even though early Easter this year expectedly meant fewer guests, they are all very optimistic when it comes to this year’s tourist season.
“Pre-season has started. Easter is a bit earlier so we did not have the luck to tie Easter holidays with some dates further down towards the season. First indicators tell us that the results will be a bit better than in all other years with early Easter holidays, we’re expecting a 4,5-6% increase”. Kliman said.
He repeated once again that Croatia is seen as a safe country and that is very true: “Our Ministry of Interior and all security services are investing a lot of effort to keep us safe. All geo-political events certainly have a positive effect on our bookings. According to information, we are receiving from various tour agencies and our Tourist Board offices abroad, the situation on foreign markets is very good, some of the markets are showing an increase in bookings of 20% while some are stagnating a little but they will catch up with last minute bookings as the season draws near. In general, we are very happy with how things are currently developing regarding bookings and announcements” Kliman concluded.
