The Croatian National Tourist Board and the European Travel Agents and Tour Operators Association (ECTAA) held a joint webinar called Croatia Safe & Attractive, which included a panel discussion focusing on activities carried out to position Croatia as an attractive and safe destination. Along with the Director of the Croatian National Tourist Board Kristjan Staničić, the panel was attended by Bernard Zenzerović (UPUHH), Helmut Gschwentner (Travel Europe) and Boris Žgomba (UPA HGK).
The webinar was moderated by Jürgen Bachmann from the French Tour Operators Association, and at the very beginning of the webinar all participants had the opportunity to participate in a survey on the most important factors when traveling. The results of the survey showed that the implementation of health and safety measures is a basic prerequisite when choosing a travel destination. The introductory part was followed by a panel discussion during which the participants showed what Croatia has done to safely welcome tourists and provide them with quality time on vacation while respecting all health and safety measures.
On that occasion, Director Staničić commented on the project Safe stay in Croatia i.e. the national safety label and campaign of the same name, adding that the CNTB will soon start implementing the main brand campaign Trust me, I've been there. “A good epidemiological situation, along with clear protocols at the borders, vaccination of the tourism sector and a well conducted campaign, will ensure the visibility of Croatia on the international market as a safe destination, which is why we expect better tourist results this year in comparison to 2020”, concluded Staničić.
Bernard Zenzerović commented on the health and safety measures implemented in Croatian hotels, especially emphasizing high hygiene standards and digitalization. Helmut Gschwentner spoke about the needs of passengers and potential risks during the trip, and Boris Žgomba optimistically pointed out that he believes that the built-in safety standards will result in greater tourist traffic in the coming period. The webinar was concluded by ECTAA President Pawel Niewiadomski, adding that, despite numerous challenges, he hopes to return to travel to beautiful Croatia.
Let us add that based on the signed agreement between the CNTB and ECTAA, Croatia has the status of “Preferred Destination” in 2021, i.e. the “Selected Destination” of this umbrella European association of travel agents and tour operators, whereby both sides agreed on active cooperation with the purpose of returning and strengthening tourism in Croatia. Through to the end of 2021, the ECTAA will be a key international partner in the promotion of Croatian tourism and travel.
The webinar recording can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/y8FM5MPqZaA