Staničić Commented on the Growing Trend of Coolcations, or the Rising Interest in Cooler Destinations in Northern Europe in Croatia

Croatia remains packed with tourists in late August, but the rise of so-called "coolcations" is emerging as a serious challenge for hotter destinations as travelers increasingly seek relief from extreme heat. Kristjan Staničić, director of the Croatian National Tourist Board, said more than a million tourists are still visiting Croatia daily and that August is so far matching last year's results. Speaking on HRT's Dnevnik, he said Croatia is still at the peak of the tourist season but declined to forecast how the month will end.

"For now I can say that August is at the level of last year's figures," he said. Staničić commented on the growing trend of "coolcations, or the rising interest in cooler destinations in northern Europe." He explained that because of ever-higher summer temperatures and repeated heatwave cycles, many people are seeking places where July and August are more pleasant than on the Mediterranean and in southern Europe. He believes the trend will continue in the coming years and that the tourism sector must be prepared for it.

He recalled that climate change has been affecting travelers' decisions for some time but considers that Croatia, thanks to its diverse offer, can respond to such changes. As an example, he mentioned Gorski kotar and Lika, where lower temperatures, quality accommodation, good gastronomy, and nature-linked and active holiday content can be found even during the summer. Staničić also addressed the intensified work of tourist inspection this season.

Due to illegal operation, eight campsites, 23 holiday homes, 56 apartments, one smaller hotel, and one hostel have been closed. He thanked the staff of the State Inspectorate and everyone involved in combating the black market. "Unfortunately, this is a phenomenon that is present and to which a response is needed," he said.

He added that cooperation of all institutions, tourist boards, and competent services in the field is important, especially when there is knowledge of unregistered guests or facilities providing services without registration. Staničić also spoke about amendments to the Hospitality Activity Act, against which the Association "Save Small Family Renters" has submitted an objection to the European Commission. They object, among other things, to re-categorisation every decade, the need for co-owners' consent in multi-apartment buildings, and the conditions for obtaining host status.

Staničić expects the law primarily to help combat the black market. He singled out the introduction of a registration number that every accommodation service provider will have to have if they want to advertise on global platforms. According to him, such a system should enable more effective control of both accommodation facilities and the online platforms on which they are advertised.

"Everyone has the right to turn to the European Commission, Staničić said, adding that Croatia has taken over the European acquis which includes the introduction of a registration number. He assessed that this measure should be one of the key tools for combating the black market and "introducing order into Croatian tourism.