Presentation of Croatia on the WTM in London

The Croatian National Tourist Bord (HTZ) traditionally starts its seasonal fair activities by attending the WTM in London during 6-9 November. The Croatian delegation is headed by Zdenko Mičić, the State Secretary for Tourism and Niko Bulić, director of the Head Office of the HTZ.

The fair stays open every day from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and the HTZ is covering an exhibition area of 304 square meters where Croatian tourist companies as well as the general Croatian tourist offer are being presented.

A press conference will be organized at 11.30 a.m. for the British media and partners in order to inform them about the Croatian tourist offer as well as the results Croatian tourism achieved during 2006.

In 2005 Croatia registered a large increase of British tourists (arrivals by 23%, night stays by 33%). That was achieved thanks to the introduction of additional British Airways flights as well as charter flights. In the year 2006 the total increase of arrivals amounts up to 4%, mostly due to the arrival of low-cost air companies (Easy jet, Wizzair, Globespan, Rayn air).

The dissatisfaction of British tour operators (introduction of VAT, cancellation of subsidies) and an increase of hotel prices were the main reasons that the hotel capacities did not achieve the same occupancy as last year. Still, it is expected that the positive trend will continue in 2007 considering the fact that 20 new tour operators included Croatia into their offer. That makes a total of 156 tour operators which are trying to attract a large number of British citizens to visit Croatia.