Opatija, the pearl of the Adriatic, is once again in the spotlight, this time thanks to the exceptional achievement of its promotional film "Everybody Needs a Break". This visual work, designed to enchant and inspire, was crowned with the highest award at the third edition of the prestigious Festival of Tourist and Ethno Film (TEF) held yesterday, September 25, 2025, on the picturesque island of Krk. Among an impressive 127 submitted film entries, of which 72 were shortlisted, the film that so passionately depicts the beauties of Opatija and its surroundings deservedly won the title of the best Croatian tourist film.

Triple Triumph and Recognition from Professionals and Public

The Tourist Board of the City of Opatija proudly received the Grand Prix award, thus confirming excellence and innovation in destination promotion. However, the success did not stop only at the main award. The director and producer of the film, the talented Sanjin Stanić from the production company Filmerija, was also awarded for his outstanding skill, winning accolades for best direction and best editing. This triple triumph was further enhanced by the second audience award, making "Everybody Needs a Break" a laureate with a total of four valuable recognitions. Such comprehensive recognition, both from professionals and viewers, clearly testifies to the universal appeal and quality of this promotional work.

The awards ceremony, which was the central event of yesterday's afternoon in the Krk Cinema Hall, was held as part of the celebration of World Tourism Day. This global day, dedicated to promoting the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic impact, was an ideal backdrop for awarding recognitions that celebrate creativity in presenting tourist destinations. The director of the Tourist Board of the City of Opatija, Suzi Petričić, accepted the award with visible pride, emphasizing the significance of these recognitions for the entire community. Suzi Petričić, who has successfully led the Opatija Tourist Board for many years and is recognized for her strategic approach to promotion, emphasized that these recognitions are not only a confirmation of the film's quality but also a confirmation of Opatija's status as an inspiring destination.

Message of Emotion and Experience

"These awards represent great recognition not only for our film but also for Opatija as a destination. We are extremely proud that our work has been recognized with the Grand Prix, because it confirms that Opatija inspires both tourists and filmmakers," said Petričić, adding: "With the film, we wanted to convey the emotion and experience of our destination, and the director brilliantly connected the rich heritage with modern offerings and top-notch experiences." Her words reflect the fundamental idea behind the film: creating a strong emotional connection with viewers. Through carefully selected shots and narrative, the film not only shows the physical beauties of Opatija but also its soul, historical context, and contemporary pulse. Connecting centuries-old tradition with modern tourism trends is crucial for destinations that want to attract a wide range of visitors, from history lovers to those seeking active holidays and luxurious experiences.

Cinematic Journey Through Magical Opatija

The promotional film, which lasts a little over four minutes, takes viewers on an unforgettable cinematic journey through Opatija and its picturesque surroundings. Each scene is carefully designed to evoke the diversity and richness of the offer. The journey begins in medieval Veprinac, a place that exudes history and offers a spectacular view of the Kvarner Bay. Veprinac, with its ancient core and the church of St. Mark, is a witness to the rich past of the Liburnian region, and in the film, it is presented as the starting point for a return to the past and a search for peace.

Furthermore, viewers are transported to the hiking and cycling trails of the mythical Učka, a mountain that rises above Opatija and offers countless opportunities for adventure and recreation in untouched nature. Učka, with its nature park, is home to diverse flora and fauna, and its viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramic views. The film skillfully evokes the feeling of freedom and connection with nature that visitors can experience exploring this magnificent mountain.

From the green heights of Učka, the film brings us back to elegant Opatija, showcasing its iconic sights. The magnificent Villa Angiolina, the cradle of Opatija's tourism built in 1844, shines in its full splendor, recalling the long and noble history of the destination. The villa, surrounded by a beautiful park, is a symbol of Opatija's elegance and the place where it all began. Američki vrtovi, with their exotic vegetation and terraced arrangement, provide scenes of peace and beauty, a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sea view.

The Crystal Hall of the Kvarner Hotel, the first Adriatic hotel built in 1884, is presented as a place of glamour and sophistication, where historical splendor meets contemporary luxury. Hotel Kvarner, with its architecture reminiscent of the golden age of tourism, is still one of the most prestigious places in Opatija, ideal for organizing top-notch events and providing an unforgettable stay. The film also takes viewers to charming Volosko, a fishing village that has retained its authentic Mediterranean spirit, with its narrow streets, small harbor, and excellent fish restaurants.

A walk along the Lungomare, the legendary coastal promenade that connects Opatija with Volosko and Lovran, with the appearance of a lady in a crinoline, evokes nostalgia and the romantic spirit of the belle époque. The Lungomare, over 12 kilometers long, is perfect for relaxing walks by the sea, and the scene with the lady in a crinoline recalls the rich history and former visitors, such as nobles and artists who enjoyed Opatija's climate and society.

A ride in a vintage car through the city further emphasizes the timeless charm of Opatija, combining the elegance of the past with the dynamic energy of the present. Scene after scene, Opatija reveals itself as a destination of top-notch experiences, where history and elegance naturally blend with a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. From adrenaline activities on Učka to peaceful moments in Američki vrtovi, from the historical charm of Veprinac to the gastronomic offer of Volosko, the film offers a comprehensive overview of the diversity of Opatija's tourist offer.

Impact on Tourist Promotion

The success of the film "Everybody Needs a Break" at the TEF festival is not only a recognition for the creative team and the Tourist Board but also a strong impetus for further promotion of Opatija. In today's digital age, visual content has immense power in shaping the perception of destinations. The film, available for viewing on the YouTube platform, serves as an excellent tool for attracting new visitors, offering them an authentic insight into everything Opatija has to offer. Through a story about rest and relaxation, the film clearly communicates a key message: Opatija is a place where everyone can find their perfect escape from everyday life.

In addition to a direct depiction of attractions, the film subtly highlights the hospitality of the local population, the quality of service in hotels and restaurants, and the generally high standard of tourist offerings. All of this contributes to creating a positive image of Opatija as a destination that not only offers beautiful landscapes and historical sights but also unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression. The film was produced by Filmerija, with the support of the Croatian National Tourist Board and the Kvarner Tourist Board, which speaks to the broader recognition of the importance of such projects for Croatian tourism as a whole.

In the context of the 180th anniversary of tourism in Opatija, which is being celebrated this year, the success of the promotional film gains even greater weight. Opatija has historically been a pioneer of tourism on the Adriatic, and with this film, it shows that it continues to be a leader in an innovative approach to promotion. Continuous investment in quality marketing content, which authentically portrays the spirit of the destination, is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the global tourism market. With its message "Everybody Needs a Break", Opatija invites all travelers to come and experience the magic of this unique city for themselves.