In today's time when tourists seek not only a place to rest, but also authentic experiences, the Croatian Tourist Board in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism and Sport has presented a unique quality label called Vaš domaćin / Local Host. This label serves as a recognizable sign for all those private renters who provide their guests with exceptional service based on tradition, hospitality, and sustainability. This further emphasizes the uniqueness of Croatian family accommodation and encourages the development of sustainable tourism, which brings Croatia a significant competitive advantage in the global tourism market.

The authenticity of Croatian family accommodation

The label Vaš domaćin / Local Host is not only a certificate but also a symbol of home warmth and attention that hosts provide to their guests. Croatian private accommodations, known for their long tradition, are now additionally confirmed by this official quality mark. Staying with a host with this label means more than just overnighting – it is an invitation to real local life, getting to know customs, cultures, and stories steeped in history and personal experiences.

Guests have the opportunity to feel hospitality as if with their own family, while hosts with their advice and recommendations enable discovering lesser-known but extremely valuable local destinations and attractions. This achieves synergy between tourists and the local community, based on mutual respect and responsibility.

Standards and sustainability as the key to success

The process of obtaining the label is based on clearly defined criteria covering several key aspects of private renters' business. Priority is authenticity of the offer, high level of hospitality and professionalism, ecological awareness, and quality communication with guests. Also, hosts must demonstrate continuous improvement in their skills and readiness to adapt to modern tourism demands.

Special emphasis is placed on sustainability – hosts must show a responsible attitude towards the environment but also towards the local community whose tradition and customs they preserve and pass on. Such an approach not only helps preserve Croatia's natural and cultural values but also contributes to the long-term development of tourism focused on quality rather than quantity.

Who is the Vaš domaćin / Local Host label intended for?

All providers of hospitality services in family accommodation who meet legal conditions and fulfill prescribed quality criteria have the right to obtain this label. The application process is simple and transparent – hosts fill out an online self-assessment form through the eVisitor system, and after being verified and confirmed as meeting conditions, they receive the official label.

The label is awarded for three years, and after that period, the host must again confirm meeting the conditions to maintain a high level of quality and trust among guests. Hosts receive a physical plaque which they display at the entrance to their accommodation, as well as a digital version of the label that can be used for promotion on websites and social networks.

Advantages brought by the Vaš domaćin / Local Host label

Holders of this label gain a significant market advantage. The exceptional visual identity of the label helps hosts stand out among many private accommodations and attract guests seeking truly authentic and pleasant experiences. Also, the Croatian Tourist Board includes only those accommodation units with this label in promotional activities, thus opening additional opportunities on emitting markets and digital channels.

Moreover, the label is a guideline for hosts for further quality and sustainability improvements in their business, creating a network of reliable and recognizable service providers. This builds tourists' trust and strengthens Croatia's image as a destination that nurtures tradition, nature, and the warmth of family welcome.

What does it mean to remain an authentic and sustainable host?

The label Vaš domaćin / Local Host encourages all renters to nurture cultural values and local customs through their business and to responsibly approach environmental preservation. For example, hosts are encouraged to use local products, reduce energy and water consumption, and educate about the importance of sustainable tourism.

Such an approach not only enriches guests' experience but also contributes to the overall well-being of the local community, as it enables more balanced development of the tourist offer and prevents excessive pressure on popular destinations. Thus, the label becomes a key part of Croatia's strategy for sustainable tourism development.

How to apply your accommodation for the Vaš domaćin / Local Host label?

Potential hosts wishing to obtain this prestigious label should access the eVisitor system where they can fill out an online self-assessment form. This step allows them to assess whether they meet the minimum criteria set by the Croatian Tourist Board and the Ministry of Tourism and Sport.

After that, the verification process follows, which confirms the quality and authenticity of the accommodation. Once a host becomes a label holder, they become part of an exclusive community that provides guests with reliable and quality experiences and benefits from all the advantages such status brings in promotion and market visibility.

Vaš domaćin / Local Host as a driver of tourism development

This initiative clearly shows how important the segment of family accommodation is in Croatia's overall tourism offer. The label not only raises the quality of service but also creates a new tourism standard focused on authenticity, personal approach, and responsibility towards the community and nature.

In times when global travelers seek unique experiences and are eager to get to know the culture and tradition of the destination, Croatia thanks to such programs can offer exactly that – an experience that is remembered, based on sincerity, warmth, and top-quality service.

For those who want to learn more or plan their vacation in Croatia, we recommend looking for accommodation with the Vaš domaćin / Local Host label, as it guarantees that their stay will be filled with special experiences and friendly welcome. Overview of accommodation with the Vaš domaćin / Local Host label provides an excellent overview of available options in different parts of Croatia.