Across the Adriatic Sea facing the back of Italy’s tall, sexy boot is Croatia. Ancient streets like cobbled slot canyons, cliffside citadels, terracotta roofs contrasting with turquoise waters, incredible mountains, and delicious food—Croatia could be Europe’s most beautiful and affordable destination. It is definitely worth considering for your next President’s Club or incentive travel adventure. Here are my Top 5 reasons why Croatia should be at the top of your list.
#5 – Getting There is Easy
Most incentive programs to Croatia will focus on two areas—Hvar and Dubrovnik—and getting to either is a cinch. In high season, April through October, over 40 airlines fly to Split from over 60 European gateways with many routes serviced by low-cost carriers (EasyJet & similar) for less than €80 (approx $90 USD). Dubrovnik has a similar lift with two seasonal non-stop connections from New York (EWR) on United Airlines with other major US Carriers rumoring the addition of Dubrovnik in future plans.
#4 – More Bang For Your Buck
Compared to other major European destinations, Croatia is a bargain. Luxury properties are routinely offered anywhere between 10-20% less here than you’ll find elsewhere in Europe. The cost of living across the board is less expensive here than in most places. I was floored to learn that the cost of living in Croatia is 51% cheaper than the world average and nearly 31% cheaper than in the United States. This obviously makes planning an incentive trip less expensive, but perhaps you should start planning retirement there too!
#3 – Happy People
During my last visit to Croatia in September of 2021, basically in the middle of the Delta Variant wave, I was struck by the friendliness and happiness of the locals I was meeting. From hotel attendants to regular passersby, I was greeted with bright eyes, wide smiles, and a demeanor of genuine helpfulness. While on an early morning run through Dubrovnik, I paused at a crossroads looking at my phone trying to figure out the best way to get to the top of Mount Srđ. A local went out of his way and, in his best English, helped me on a route that ended up being one of the best runs of my life. I was not surprised to learn that Croatia jumped 56 places on the World Happiness Report between 2020 and 2021. Bottom line: I feel welcome in Croatia and you will too. They WANT you to come.
#2 – A Foodie’s Paradise
Food has got to be one of the most important aspects of a successful incentive travel event. Food cannot be forgettable, it must be as memorable as the destination. And for Croatians, food is an experience, its family, and its connection. Croatia is home to 3 Michelin Star Restaurants and countless venues for catered, themed events. The place to do your farewell gala dinner is the seaside fortress, Lovrijenac, with panoramic views of Dubrovnik City. It is magical!
Favorite Foods here:
#1 – Cities that Sparkle Like Jewels
After entering Dubrovnik’s ancient city gate of Vrata od Ploča just after sunset, I followed the sound of a symphony concert being played in the streets of the old town. I stopped right in front of Orlando’s Column, a flagpole statue of Dubrovnik’s hero knight holding a sword, unveiled in 1418. The city’s streetlamps reflected almost perfectly off of the smooth cobblestones worn from centuries of use. This place is OLD and it sparkles. No wonder producers of the Game of Thrones chose Dubrovnik as the filming location for the fictional city of King’s Landing. Your incentive travel winners will be awed by the beauty of this place
Get this Party Started
Croatia is ready for you. The stone streets are so clean you’ll feel they tidied up just because you were coming. It is a unique and stunning place for your incentive trip. So let the masses visit that tall, sexy boot across the way. Your group will be in Croatia, enjoying ease of travel at an incredible price to a welcoming destination with delectable food. If you want to see Dubrovnik sparkle like a jewel, contact us today for a sample itinerary. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
