May 18, 2019 – The 2nd International Conference on Diaspora Tourism opened in Split on Friday, May 17, 2019.
Tourism and business links between Croatia and its diaspora are improving, with the latest diaspora conference currently taking place in Split.
The conference opened on Friday morning at the Milesi Palace by host Edita Lučić Jelić. After the welcoming speeches, which featured the organisers and representatives of the Ministry of Tourism, the many themes of the conference were introduced, which include topics like experiences of diaspora tourism, investment foundation in tourism, promotion of diaspora tourism by emigrants in the countries where they live, cultural tourism, sports tourism, art and tourism, and health tourism and the aging population.
The conference even saw the support of Croatian president Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, and Croatia national team coach and 2018 World Cup finalist Zlatko Dalić, which you can see in the video below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v=KJhGOnDO-CE
One of the positive things happening with the complicated relationship between Croatia and its diaspora, is that the younger, business-minded generation from the diaspora and the Homeland are busy exploring ways they can cooperate, strengthen their bonds and move Croatia forward.
Those bonds are getting stronger, as Croatia’s entrepreneurial class are forging links with like-minded diaspora businesspeople and entrepreneurs.
Through panels which included Joe Bašić, CEO and founder of MPG which runs Ultra Europe in Split, and Marion Duzich, CEO of Waterman Svpetvrs Resort, day one shared the positive and successful stories of returnees who have invested in tourism.
Furthermore, day one of the conference delved into the “Croatian Dream”, before another panel of entrepreneurs discussing the past and future of Croatian returnees. The conference also looked into the many opportunities for the future, with experts including lawyers and architects weighing in on the possibilities and perspectives of diaspora tourism and investments.
The final discussion of the day focused on the massive market of health and wellness tourism, with an impressive panel led by representatives of top health clinics and institutes.
A packed day full of energy and positivity ended with dinner and music at the restaurant Adriatic Grašo by the ACI marina in Split.
Day two of the conference continues on Saturday, and you can find the full program in English and Croatian here.
To read more about the Croatian Diaspora, follow TCN’s dedicated page.
