Growth Potential Still Clear for Croatia

Each year, around 18 million people visit Croatia from afar; considering the country itself has a population of just four million, this is an impressive statistic. With summer tourism leading the way, as with many other countries, the Ministry of Tourism is doing more and more each year to prolong the season and make the most of the many visitors; for example, they’ve released plans to extend both sports and medical tourism.

Although the whole country clearly has potential, it’s the tourism industry that’s currently booming and some believe sports is the way forward. Not only are there eight brilliant golf courses, there are plans to build more. So far this year, Croatia has hosted four golf tourism conferences, events where the industry can really dig into the tourism potential of the country.

Elsewhere, growth is expected in the years between now and 2025 for cycling holidays. For Cesport, they believe cycling and golf tourism should be focal points in the years ahead. However, for success to come, investment is required from government departments and the tourism association in two key areas;

•    Marketing
•    Infrastructure

The Rise of Medical Tourism

Away from sports, it seems more and more Europeans have an interest in getting medical procedures in South Africa, India, Brazil, and other countries around the world. Could Croatia be the next big name in this field? Currently, treatments are not only affordable but safe and high in quality too. Popular areas include medical rehabilitation, cosmetic surgery, dental work, and physical therapy.

Croatia certainly has potential but transforming potential into actual success is the difficult part. At some point, a ministry or entrepreneur will need to stand up and take charge of the growth strategy. If this occurs in both sports and medical tourism, it could be an exciting time for Croatia.