All participants of Croatian Tourism have the opportunity to apply destinations and employees for annual awards in Opatija with an emphasis on excellence and sustainability in the sector

All participants in Croatian tourism can register destinations, tourism professionals, or entities for the Annual Croatian Tourism Awards by September 15th. These awards aim to recognize and reward excellence in tourism and are a significant acknowledgment for those who have contributed to the development of tourism in Croatia through their work and innovations. They are awarded by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Croatian National Tourist Board, and the Croatian Chamber of Economy, and this year's ceremony will be held during the Croatian Tourism Days in Opatija, on November 21st and 22nd. A special emphasis of this year's event will be on the celebration of 180 years of organized tourism in Opatija, which is known as the "Queen of the Adriatic."
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Encouraging excellence in tourism

These awards recognize the best in Croatian tourism across 15 main categories. The selection includes awards for the tourism event of the year, Croatian tourism champion, DMK - tourism package of the year, gastronomic experience of the year, hotel of the year (awarded to the best small and large hotel), campsite of the year, marina of the year, charter of the year, and awards in the categories of active, cultural, business, rural, and health tourism. A special "Naturally Yours" award will be given for contributions to sustainable tourism, reflecting the growing trend of sustainability in the tourism sector.

Recognition for individuals and communities

In addition to the main categories, there is also the "People in Tourism" category, where awards such as the "Anton Štifanić" are given to an individual or company, institution, or association. Additionally, the Lifetime Achievement Award and the "Man - Key to Success, Employee of the Year" award will be presented in 19 subcategories such as agency employee, tourist guide, receptionist, waiter, police officer, firefighter, chef, hotel housekeeping staff, transport employee, and others. These awards recognize the work and effort of individuals who have made Croatian tourism better and more competitive through their contributions.
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How to nominate candidates

Nominations are submitted exclusively through online applications on the official Croatian Tourism Days website. Applications are open to all who believe they have contributed to the development of tourism in Croatia, whether through innovative projects, outstanding hospitality, or contributions to sustainable tourism. A large number of applications are expected, given that these awards have become synonymous with prestige in the sector. Those who have left a significant mark in tourism with their excellence and effort, thereby helping to build Croatia's image as one of the leading tourist destinations in the Mediterranean, will be awarded.

Opatija as the host

Opatija, as the host of the Croatian Tourism Days, was not chosen by chance. This city with a rich history of tourism, where the celebration of 180 years of organized tourism is a significant moment, is the ideal place for the award ceremony. Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy numerous events as well as attend a ceremony that will bring together the best from the world of tourism in Croatia. Opatija, with its distinctive elegance and long tourism tradition, provides the perfect setting for this prestigious event.

This year's awards will be presented in recognition of exceptional contributions and achievements in tourism, further encouraging continuous development and innovation in this key sector of the Croatian economy.