Short term apartments a fantastic solution for visitors in Zagreb

For all those who’ve had enough of the overpriced, impersonal and claustrophobic hotel rooms, inZagreb has a fantastic solution – short term apartment rent. Also called serviced apartments, as they offer full service including cleaning, bedding and towels, food basics, transfers etc, short term rental is an excellent option for anyone looking for cozy, centrally located accommodation. What makes inZagreb’s offer so different from a hotel is not only the cosiness of the apartments, but also their unique approach - the guests have a ‘homely’ treatment that no hotel can offer. As the slogan of one of inZagreb’s best short term renters puts it: HOTELS ARE FOR SLEEPING, APARTMENTS ARE FOR LIVING.

And this is so true. Each apartment is different and has a real character that extends throughout the rooms, decorations and the colour scheme. InZagreb apartments also permit the ‘ghosts’ of the previous guests to remain. People leave books behind and recommendations of restaurants that are "off the beaten track" which makes you feel that you have joined a small community. When you arrive late on a Sunday night you know that there will be some fruit, tea and coffee or even a lovely bottle of wine waiting for you.

Lisa Cowey, a frequent guests at inZagreb apartments points out that apartments have so much advantage over hotels. She has travelled to Zagreb many times engaged on different projects.

"When I came back to Zagreb in Autumn 2008, I invited friends from the new project to come and join me for dinner," says Lisa. We were 8 people altogether, sharing the cooking and joking around the table. We cooked with local in-season vegetables from the market. Friends brought cakes and dessert from the local shops. We stayed up and talked late. You cannot do this is in a faceless hotel room."

Business travellers and those on holiday have realised that staying in an apartment offers a "degree of freedom" that is not available in a hotel. InZagreb works with a number of companies, embassies and institutions whose employees, consultants and guests prefer this type of accommodation to a hotel. In a hotel there is only a room with a bathroom and the cost is much higher than the apartment rental where you have freedom, privacy and feel like at home.

Ivana and Ksandro who run InZagreb apartments have done their best to furnish the apartments nicely, giving them an additional touch through lively pictures and little details, plants and decorations. All the apartments are well equipped with kitchen utensils, a dishwasher, microwave, toaster, kettle, coffee machine. They also have satellite or max TV,  radio-buzzer, CD/DVD player with a collection of CD-s for every apartment, iron and ironing board, hair-dryer and washing machine. All apartments are air-conditioned and have central heating.

The guests like to be informed on current events in the city so in the apartments they’ll find a small stand with a map of Zagreb, weather forecast, monthly city guide, brochures on Croatia, tips for restaurants and shops etc. Ivana is a licensed city guide so she can also provide information on various tours and places of interest.

For many Zagreb visitors the trip will be their first time and it is quite handy to have a pick-up service. This is something that can also be organised with short term rental. Average airport pick-up service is around 20 EUR and inZagreb provides free Bus and Train station pick-up.

"We have regular visitors and guests who work in Zagreb over a longer period of time – we get to know them quite well and recognise their wishes and habits. Quite often we cook for them or go out for coffee together," says Ivana. "I think these moments are enriching for both sides.

"The era of mass tourism in terms of huge, impersonal hotels is slowly behind us and we should be working on the quality offer on a different level. I think we need to have a different approach to hotels and concentrate on individual guests and smaller groups spending holidays on households or in the apartments, like here in Zagreb," she says.

Short term apartments a fantastic solution for visitors in Zagreb

For all those who’ve had enough of the overpriced, impersonal and claustrophobic hotel rooms, inZagreb has a fantastic solution – short term apartment rent. Also called serviced apartments, as they offer full service including cleaning, bedding and towels, food basics, transfers etc, short term rental is an excellent option for anyone looking for cozy, centrally located accommodation. What makes inZagreb’s offer so different from a hotel is not only the cosiness of the apartments, but also their unique approach - the guests have a ‘homely’ treatment that no hotel can offer. As the slogan of one of inZagreb’s best short term renters puts it: HOTELS ARE FOR SLEEPING, APARTMENTS ARE FOR LIVING.

And this is so true. Each apartment is different and has a real character that extends throughout the rooms, decorations and the colour scheme. InZagreb apartments also permit the ‘ghosts’ of the previous guests to remain. People leave books behind and recommendations of restaurants that are "off the beaten track" which makes you feel that you have joined a small community. When you arrive late on a Sunday night you know that there will be some fruit, tea and coffee or even a lovely bottle of wine waiting for you.

Lisa Cowey, a frequent guests at inZagreb apartments points out that apartments have so much advantage over hotels. She has travelled to Zagreb many times engaged on different projects.

"When I came back to Zagreb in Autumn 2008, I invited friends from the new project to come and join me for dinner," says Lisa. We were 8 people altogether, sharing the cooking and joking around the table. We cooked with local in-season vegetables from the market. Friends brought cakes and dessert from the local shops. We stayed up and talked late. You cannot do this is in a faceless hotel room."

Business travellers and those on holiday have realised that staying in an apartment offers a "degree of freedom" that is not available in a hotel. InZagreb works with a number of companies, embassies and institutions whose employees, consultants and guests prefer this type of accommodation to a hotel. In a hotel there is only a room with a bathroom and the cost is much higher than the apartment rental where you have freedom, privacy and feel like at home.

Ivana and Ksandro who run InZagreb apartments have done their best to furnish the apartments nicely, giving them an additional touch through lively pictures and little details, plants and decorations. All the apartments are well equipped with kitchen utensils, a dishwasher, microwave, toaster, kettle, coffee machine. They also have satellite or max TV,  radio-buzzer, CD/DVD player with a collection of CD-s for every apartment, iron and ironing board, hair-dryer and washing machine. All apartments are air-conditioned and have central heating.

The guests like to be informed on current events in the city so in the apartments they’ll find a small stand with a map of Zagreb, weather forecast, monthly city guide, brochures on Croatia, tips for restaurants and shops etc. Ivana is a licensed city guide so she can also provide information on various tours and places of interest.

For many Zagreb visitors the trip will be their first time and it is quite handy to have a pick-up service. This is something that can also be organised with short term rental. Average airport pick-up service is around 20 EUR and inZagreb provides free Bus and Train station pick-up.

"We have regular visitors and guests who work in Zagreb over a longer period of time – we get to know them quite well and recognise their wishes and habits. Quite often we cook for them or go out for coffee together," says Ivana. "I think these moments are enriching for both sides.

"The era of mass tourism in terms of huge, impersonal hotels is slowly behind us and we should be working on the quality offer on a different level. I think we need to have a different approach to hotels and concentrate on individual guests and smaller groups spending holidays on households or in the apartments, like here in Zagreb," she says.

Travel by Train: Easy-to-Reach Cities from Zagreb

If you want to make the most of your free time, travelling by train can be one of the most convenient forms of transport. Your journey begins and ends in major cities and nothing beats pulling in to a central station – you can forget fiddly transfers to and from the airport. You will also earn yourself a pat on the back for opting for the environmentally-friendly mode of transport. From Zagreb, direct services run to neighbouring countries including the cities of Ljubljana, Venice, Munich and Graz. For lengthier journeys, travel overnight to save both time and paying for a hotel room.

Zagreb really is the gateway to the neighbouring countries. If you are travelling from north to south why not stay overnight in a Split hostel and catch an early train to Zagreb the next morning. You might decide to explore the city for a few days and if you book a Zagreb youth hostel, a few extra days won’t cost you much.

·        Short Trips

Slovenia - Zagreb to Ljubljana: 2 hours and 20 minutes

11 trains a day make the two-and-a-half-hour journey to the Slovenian capital. The journey itself is rather spectacular on board the air-conditioned ‘Sava’ Eurocity train. Leaving Zagreb’s beautiful palatial station, the train crosses wide open plains following the river Sava north. When it crosses into Slovenia it passes through a gorge between the mountains.

Ljubljana City Guide: For a short stay, focus your attention on the old town. Here you will find Jože Plečnik’s elegant legacy of townhouses and plenty of cobbled alleyways and bridges which make for romantic idyll wandering. Start at Prešeren Square and follow the Ljubljanica river east to take in the infamous Dragon Bridge. The castle is also an opportune place to take in a view of the city and the Julian Alps. Walk, or hop on the funicular railway to the top. The city is very walkable but if you are short of time, pick up one of the bicycles under the cycle scheme and enjoy two hours free pedalling.

Where to eat: If the weather is fine, pick up tasty local produce for a picnic from Trznica open market. For an afternoon pick-me-up, Ljubljana has many quaint tearooms serving homemade cakes and light sandwiches which make for very reasonably-priced lunches.

Where to stay: If you would like to stay in a boutique hostel Ljubljana offers cheap accommodation with private or shared rooms. The Penzion Pod Libo is housed in a charming building and is a short walk from the main train station. The terrace offers lovely views of the city and on the ground floor, a restaurant serves traditional dishes.

Austria - Zagreb to Graz: 4 hours

To save on time, swap Vienna for Graz. There is only one direct service each day leaving Zagreb at around 7am and it arrives in Graz in four hours.

Graz City Guide: Graz is Austria’s second-largest city but the 50,000 strong student population helps keep the bars and shops edgy and vibrant. It’s also a very attractive place, with red-roofed Baroque and Renaissance buildings and plenty of green space. Its other draw is the close at hand countryside. Forests, mountains, vineyards and thermal springs are all within easy reach if you’ve had your fill of cutting edge contemporary art galleries and city life.

Where to eat: Dishing up delightful styrian cuisine, Altsteirische Schmankerlstubn (Sackstraße 10) in the centre of Graz serves generous portions of broth, goulash and dumplings which can be washed down with a good selection of regional wines.

Where to stay: Book a bed in a private or shared room at a Graz hostel if you are keeping to a budget. Hotel Mariahilf is located right in the heart of Graz old town and all the attractions can be reached on foot.

·        Overnighters

The best way to tackle greater distances is to plan an overnight journey. Not only do you save money on hotels, you are also maximising your time by travelling through the night. If you can’t afford to take much time off work, you can finish as usual on a Friday and then hop on to a train and wake up the next morning in a whole new city just waiting to be explored.

Italy - Zagreb to Venice: 7 hours

A direct Euronight service departs Zagreb at 23:50 and arrives in Venice’s main station Santa Lucia just after 7am the next day.

Venice City Guide: The maze of waterways is so awe-inspiring that few manage to keep to their planned itineraries. Instead, a simple ‘one foot in front of the other’ approach will lead you through intriguing alleys and across hundreds of bridges. But it is worth bearing a few things in mind. Busy though it may be St Mark’s Square allows you to absorb a number of sights all in one go including St Mark’s basilica, Doge’s Palace and the Torre dell’Orologio. A ride in a gondola is a wonderful experience but at €100 for 40 minutes, opting for the waterbus up the Grand Canal might be easier on the wallet. Other worthwhile trips on the water include a visit to Murano, the island famous for its colourful glass while Burano made a name for itself in lace and houses with colourful frontages. For a 360° view of the city, hop on a vaporetti and make the 5-minute journey over to the small island of San Giorgio. A ride up the campanile (bell tower) inside Palladio’s wonderful church of San Giorgio Maggiore will set you back a mere €3.

Where to eat: It is hard to escape the tourist throng, and also the restaurants that cater to the hordes but venture across the water to Giudecca – an island just 5 minutes from the main vaporetti station at St Mark’s – and you will be rewarded with thinning crowds and a fresh perspective of Venice with views from the promenade looking back across the water to the Doge’s Palace. I Figli delle Stelle (Fondamenta de la Crosa 70/71) is a labour of love for three friends heralding from Venice, Rome and Bari. Take an aperitivo on the sofa before tucking in to traditional pasta, fish or meat dishes with a twist from Puglia, Lazio and Veneto.

Where to stay: Things don’t come cheap in this city so try a Venice youth hostel. Alternatively the Ca’Arco Antico Guesthouse offers beautiful rooms with traditional furnishings just a few minutes from the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge.

Germany - Zagreb to Munich: 9 hours

The first part of this journey is the Zagreb to Ljubljana route along the stunning Sava river. It then crosses the border along the Salzachtal valley and climbs the Austrian Alps. Unfortunately if you opt for the overnight train you will miss all of this and you won’t be able to marvel at the views of the river Salzach and Salzburg citadel. The Euronight departs Zagreb at 21:15 and arrives in Munich at 6:15am. Two trains operate during the day but if you are eager to get to your destination, sitting on a train for nine daylight hours might seem like wasting valuable time.

Munich City Guide: The city ranked no. 1 in Monocle’s most liveable city survey, so no doubt you will want to know what all the fuss is about. Munich is often cited as Italy’s northernmost city with a skyline of red roofs not dissimilar to the Baroque and Renaissance architecture of Bologna, Florence or Siena. Munich also boasts a successful cycle scheme and the bikes inject a little fun into the journey between attractions. If you like beer, the annual Oktoberfest is one of the biggest festivals in the world dedicated to the stuff. Tents housing different breweries are erected and buxom fräuleins carry Maß (super-size beer glasses) between raucous outbursts of song, dance and general merriment. Why not extend your trip to squeeze in a few days on the slopes? The Alps can be enjoyed – at a push – as a day trip but to really improve your skiing, stay a couple of days in the rather charming ski resorts. Another worthwhile day trip is to the picturesque Neuschwanstein Castle which many will remember from the film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Where to eat: If you are looking for archetypal, it would be hard to beat Franziskaner (Persuastrasse 5), a Bavarian beer house boasting its own butchers and brew. If the folksy interior is too much, relocate to the terrace on a sunny day. Once you have had your fill of wurst and potato, move on to the steaks at Brenner (Maximilianstrasse 15). Here you can have a slap up meal with attentive service.  Prices are reasonable for what might be your best dinner in Munich but the place is also a great spot for breakfast and brunch.

Where to stay: After your train journey, you won’t want to travel far so if you are looking for a youth hostel Munich has plenty of cheap accommodation close to the station. An all-you-can-eat breakfast is included in the price of a shared or private room at Jaeger’s Hostel. Just a few minutes’ walk from the main station, facilities are modern and they offer a bar and free city tour to guests.

Madeleine Wilson is a travel writer for HostelBookers, the budget accommodation specialist. She lives and works in London.

Travel by Train: Easy-to-Reach Cities from Zagreb

If you want to make the most of your free time, travelling by train can be one of the most convenient forms of transport. Your journey begins and ends in major cities and nothing beats pulling in to a central station – you can forget fiddly transfers to and from the airport. You will also earn yourself a pat on the back for opting for the environmentally-friendly mode of transport. From Zagreb, direct services run to neighbouring countries including the cities of Ljubljana, Venice, Munich and Graz. For lengthier journeys, travel overnight to save both time and paying for a hotel room.

Zagreb really is the gateway to the neighbouring countries. If you are travelling from north to south why not stay overnight in a Split hostel and catch an early train to Zagreb the next morning. You might decide to explore the city for a few days and if you book a Zagreb youth hostel, a few extra days won’t cost you much.

·        Short Trips

Slovenia - Zagreb to Ljubljana: 2 hours and 20 minutes

11 trains a day make the two-and-a-half-hour journey to the Slovenian capital. The journey itself is rather spectacular on board the air-conditioned ‘Sava’ Eurocity train. Leaving Zagreb’s beautiful palatial station, the train crosses wide open plains following the river Sava north. When it crosses into Slovenia it passes through a gorge between the mountains.

Ljubljana City Guide: For a short stay, focus your attention on the old town. Here you will find Jože Plečnik’s elegant legacy of townhouses and plenty of cobbled alleyways and bridges which make for romantic idyll wandering. Start at Prešeren Square and follow the Ljubljanica river east to take in the infamous Dragon Bridge. The castle is also an opportune place to take in a view of the city and the Julian Alps. Walk, or hop on the funicular railway to the top. The city is very walkable but if you are short of time, pick up one of the bicycles under the cycle scheme and enjoy two hours free pedalling.

Where to eat: If the weather is fine, pick up tasty local produce for a picnic from Trznica open market. For an afternoon pick-me-up, Ljubljana has many quaint tearooms serving homemade cakes and light sandwiches which make for very reasonably-priced lunches.

Where to stay: If you would like to stay in a boutique hostel Ljubljana offers cheap accommodation with private or shared rooms. The Penzion Pod Libo is housed in a charming building and is a short walk from the main train station. The terrace offers lovely views of the city and on the ground floor, a restaurant serves traditional dishes.

Austria - Zagreb to Graz: 4 hours

To save on time, swap Vienna for Graz. There is only one direct service each day leaving Zagreb at around 7am and it arrives in Graz in four hours.

Graz City Guide: Graz is Austria’s second-largest city but the 50,000 strong student population helps keep the bars and shops edgy and vibrant. It’s also a very attractive place, with red-roofed Baroque and Renaissance buildings and plenty of green space. Its other draw is the close at hand countryside. Forests, mountains, vineyards and thermal springs are all within easy reach if you’ve had your fill of cutting edge contemporary art galleries and city life.

Where to eat: Dishing up delightful styrian cuisine, Altsteirische Schmankerlstubn (Sackstraße 10) in the centre of Graz serves generous portions of broth, goulash and dumplings which can be washed down with a good selection of regional wines.

Where to stay: Book a bed in a private or shared room at a Graz hostel if you are keeping to a budget. Hotel Mariahilf is located right in the heart of Graz old town and all the attractions can be reached on foot.

·        Overnighters

The best way to tackle greater distances is to plan an overnight journey. Not only do you save money on hotels, you are also maximising your time by travelling through the night. If you can’t afford to take much time off work, you can finish as usual on a Friday and then hop on to a train and wake up the next morning in a whole new city just waiting to be explored.

Italy - Zagreb to Venice: 7 hours

A direct Euronight service departs Zagreb at 23:50 and arrives in Venice’s main station Santa Lucia just after 7am the next day.

Venice City Guide: The maze of waterways is so awe-inspiring that few manage to keep to their planned itineraries. Instead, a simple ‘one foot in front of the other’ approach will lead you through intriguing alleys and across hundreds of bridges. But it is worth bearing a few things in mind. Busy though it may be St Mark’s Square allows you to absorb a number of sights all in one go including St Mark’s basilica, Doge’s Palace and the Torre dell’Orologio. A ride in a gondola is a wonderful experience but at €100 for 40 minutes, opting for the waterbus up the Grand Canal might be easier on the wallet. Other worthwhile trips on the water include a visit to Murano, the island famous for its colourful glass while Burano made a name for itself in lace and houses with colourful frontages. For a 360° view of the city, hop on a vaporetti and make the 5-minute journey over to the small island of San Giorgio. A ride up the campanile (bell tower) inside Palladio’s wonderful church of San Giorgio Maggiore will set you back a mere €3.

Where to eat: It is hard to escape the tourist throng, and also the restaurants that cater to the hordes but venture across the water to Giudecca – an island just 5 minutes from the main vaporetti station at St Mark’s – and you will be rewarded with thinning crowds and a fresh perspective of Venice with views from the promenade looking back across the water to the Doge’s Palace. I Figli delle Stelle (Fondamenta de la Crosa 70/71) is a labour of love for three friends heralding from Venice, Rome and Bari. Take an aperitivo on the sofa before tucking in to traditional pasta, fish or meat dishes with a twist from Puglia, Lazio and Veneto.

Where to stay: Things don’t come cheap in this city so try a Venice youth hostel. Alternatively the Ca’Arco Antico Guesthouse offers beautiful rooms with traditional furnishings just a few minutes from the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge.

Germany - Zagreb to Munich: 9 hours

The first part of this journey is the Zagreb to Ljubljana route along the stunning Sava river. It then crosses the border along the Salzachtal valley and climbs the Austrian Alps. Unfortunately if you opt for the overnight train you will miss all of this and you won’t be able to marvel at the views of the river Salzach and Salzburg citadel. The Euronight departs Zagreb at 21:15 and arrives in Munich at 6:15am. Two trains operate during the day but if you are eager to get to your destination, sitting on a train for nine daylight hours might seem like wasting valuable time.

Munich City Guide: The city ranked no. 1 in Monocle’s most liveable city survey, so no doubt you will want to know what all the fuss is about. Munich is often cited as Italy’s northernmost city with a skyline of red roofs not dissimilar to the Baroque and Renaissance architecture of Bologna, Florence or Siena. Munich also boasts a successful cycle scheme and the bikes inject a little fun into the journey between attractions. If you like beer, the annual Oktoberfest is one of the biggest festivals in the world dedicated to the stuff. Tents housing different breweries are erected and buxom fräuleins carry Maß (super-size beer glasses) between raucous outbursts of song, dance and general merriment. Why not extend your trip to squeeze in a few days on the slopes? The Alps can be enjoyed – at a push – as a day trip but to really improve your skiing, stay a couple of days in the rather charming ski resorts. Another worthwhile day trip is to the picturesque Neuschwanstein Castle which many will remember from the film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Where to eat: If you are looking for archetypal, it would be hard to beat Franziskaner (Persuastrasse 5), a Bavarian beer house boasting its own butchers and brew. If the folksy interior is too much, relocate to the terrace on a sunny day. Once you have had your fill of wurst and potato, move on to the steaks at Brenner (Maximilianstrasse 15). Here you can have a slap up meal with attentive service.  Prices are reasonable for what might be your best dinner in Munich but the place is also a great spot for breakfast and brunch.

Where to stay: After your train journey, you won’t want to travel far so if you are looking for a youth hostel Munich has plenty of cheap accommodation close to the station. An all-you-can-eat breakfast is included in the price of a shared or private room at Jaeger’s Hostel. Just a few minutes’ walk from the main station, facilities are modern and they offer a bar and free city tour to guests.

Madeleine Wilson is a travel writer for HostelBookers, the budget accommodation specialist. She lives and works in London.

Zagreb´s St. Mark´s Church gets new organ

St.Mark’s Church in Zagreb’s Old Town will receive a new organ worth 450,000 Euros built by German craftsman, Wolfgang Eisenbarth.
St. Mark’s Church is the first church in the written Croatian history to have had an organ (1363 or 1359, depending on sources).
The new musical instrument was built over the course of last year using the historical facade of the organ case from 1890 and is a replacement for the old that was too damaged to justify repairs.
The organ’s construction was financed in part by the City of Zagreb and private donations collected by the Church’s pastor, Franjo Prstec.
The new organ will be blessed by Zagreb's Archbishop, Cardinal Josip Bozanic during the 11 o’clock mass this coming Sunday. Another celebration is scheduled for the same evening at 19:30, when the organ is going to be presented to Zagreb's public.
Well-known Croatian organ players Ante Knesaurek, Alen Kopunovic-Legetin and Pavlo Masic will play the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, Charles Tournemire, Marcel Dupre, Henry Mulet and Charles-Marie Widor.

Sunday Times recommends Hvar for leisurely, cheap vacation

The Croatian island of Hvar has made it onto the list of the top 50 affordable travel destinations recommended by the British weekly, Sunday Times.

Times’ writers recommend Hvar for comfortable, leisurely and relatively cheap vacations, costing just under 400 British pounds (460 Euros). They recommend private accommodation and remind that Croatia is linked to England’s capital London by budget airlines.

The Sunday Times adds that the prices in the supermarkets are much lower than in the UK and that the island in the Adriatic has a happening night life.

Spanish, Portuguese and Greek destinations were included along with the Croatian, the daily Vecernji List writes.

Zagreb´s St. Mark´s Church gets new organ

St.Mark’s Church in Zagreb’s Old Town will receive a new organ worth 450,000 Euros built by German craftsman, Wolfgang Eisenbarth.
St. Mark’s Church is the first church in the written Croatian history to have had an organ (1363 or 1359, depending on sources).
The new musical instrument was built over the course of last year using the historical facade of the organ case from 1890 and is a replacement for the old that was too damaged to justify repairs.
The organ’s construction was financed in part by the City of Zagreb and private donations collected by the Church’s pastor, Franjo Prstec.
The new organ will be blessed by Zagreb's Archbishop, Cardinal Josip Bozanic during the 11 o’clock mass this coming Sunday. Another celebration is scheduled for the same evening at 19:30, when the organ is going to be presented to Zagreb's public.
Well-known Croatian organ players Ante Knesaurek, Alen Kopunovic-Legetin and Pavlo Masic will play the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, Charles Tournemire, Marcel Dupre, Henry Mulet and Charles-Marie Widor.

Sunday Times recommends Hvar for leisurely, cheap vacation

The Croatian island of Hvar has made it onto the list of the top 50 affordable travel destinations recommended by the British weekly, Sunday Times.

Times’ writers recommend Hvar for comfortable, leisurely and relatively cheap vacations, costing just under 400 British pounds (460 Euros). They recommend private accommodation and remind that Croatia is linked to England’s capital London by budget airlines.

The Sunday Times adds that the prices in the supermarkets are much lower than in the UK and that the island in the Adriatic has a happening night life.

Spanish, Portuguese and Greek destinations were included along with the Croatian, the daily Vecernji List writes.

Four Croatian youngsters reap wins at science conference in Moscow

Four Croatian high schoolers have returned from a recent science conference in Moscow with a handful of medals, the daily Jutarnji List writes.
Filip Bzik, Viktoria Belobradic, Gabriela Clara Racz and Ines Kovacevic won awards at the International Conference of Young Scientists for their discoveries in life and environmental sciences and experimental physics categories.

Bzik showed that proteins can have a positive effect on the prevention of common eye illnesses, winning a gold medal in the life sciences category with a project he started while volunteering at a laboratory in St. Louis (United States).
Belobradic won a silver medal for discovering that "light" cigarettes are more harmful than their "normal" counterparts.
Racz received a silver medal in the experimental physics category, while Kovacic was recognised for her research in life sciences.
All youngsters were honoured by Zagreb’s Mayor Milan Bandic and will be guaranteed entry to one of five Zagreb universities, daily Jutarnji List writes.

Four Croatian youngsters reap wins at science conference in Moscow

Four Croatian high schoolers have returned from a recent science conference in Moscow with a handful of medals, the daily Jutarnji List writes.
Filip Bzik, Viktoria Belobradic, Gabriela Clara Racz and Ines Kovacevic won awards at the International Conference of Young Scientists for their discoveries in life and environmental sciences and experimental physics categories.

Bzik showed that proteins can have a positive effect on the prevention of common eye illnesses, winning a gold medal in the life sciences category with a project he started while volunteering at a laboratory in St. Louis (United States).
Belobradic won a silver medal for discovering that "light" cigarettes are more harmful than their "normal" counterparts.
Racz received a silver medal in the experimental physics category, while Kovacic was recognised for her research in life sciences.
All youngsters were honoured by Zagreb’s Mayor Milan Bandic and will be guaranteed entry to one of five Zagreb universities, daily Jutarnji List writes.

Croatian Football Federation President off the hook for discriminatory remarks

The court has let the President of the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) Vlatko Markovic off the hook in the case of discrimination against homosexuals in football.


Center for LGBT equality and Center for Peace Studies have sued Markovic over his statement that no declared homosexual could play for the national team because only "healthy people" play football.

The judge of Zagreb County Court Jasenka Grgic has ruled that no direct discrimination could be confirmed and that the HNS as an employer should be sued regarding the prohibition of the right to employment on grounds of sexual orientation, and not the president.

The LGBT association says that the verdict proves that the anti-discrimination laws are not implemented even though they are one of the conditions for closing the European Union negotiations chapter on judiciary.

The associations had demanded that Markovic apologises and displays a sign during a game that would read "Stop to LGBT discrimination" during one of the games.

They will appeal the verdict to the High Court and will report the case to UEFA.

"We believe that the problem is very deep because Vlatko Markovic is the head of Croatian football, and sport – according to Law on Sports – must be equally accessible to all, regardless of gender, race, religion or sexual orientation," said Marko Jurcic on behalf of the plaintiffs.

Croatian Football Federation President off the hook for discriminatory remarks

The court has let the President of the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) Vlatko Markovic off the hook in the case of discrimination against homosexuals in football.


Center for LGBT equality and Center for Peace Studies have sued Markovic over his statement that no declared homosexual could play for the national team because only "healthy people" play football.

The judge of Zagreb County Court Jasenka Grgic has ruled that no direct discrimination could be confirmed and that the HNS as an employer should be sued regarding the prohibition of the right to employment on grounds of sexual orientation, and not the president.

The LGBT association says that the verdict proves that the anti-discrimination laws are not implemented even though they are one of the conditions for closing the European Union negotiations chapter on judiciary.

The associations had demanded that Markovic apologises and displays a sign during a game that would read "Stop to LGBT discrimination" during one of the games.

They will appeal the verdict to the High Court and will report the case to UEFA.

"We believe that the problem is very deep because Vlatko Markovic is the head of Croatian football, and sport – according to Law on Sports – must be equally accessible to all, regardless of gender, race, religion or sexual orientation," said Marko Jurcic on behalf of the plaintiffs.

Croatian athletes reap wins at Taekwando Championship in South Korea

Croatian taekwondo athlete Marina Sumic has won the silver meal in the up to 62 kilograms category at the World Championship currently held in the South Korean town of Gheongju.

To get to the semi-finals, Sumic beat Mexican Carolina Acosta Alvarez 5-2, New Zealand’s Verina Wihonghai 5-0, Russian Marina Cesuina 12-1 and Australian Carmen Marton 15-3. The Canadian Karine Sergeria turned over the semi-final match to Sumic without a fight.
Sumic lost in the finals to Thailand's representative, Rangsiya Nsaisom 1-3.

This is the second medal for Croatia’s representatives in Gyeongju, after Ana Zaninovic won gold in the category of up to 53 kilograms on Tuesday.

Croatian athletes reap wins at Taekwando Championship in South Korea

Croatian taekwondo athlete Marina Sumic has won the silver meal in the up to 62 kilograms category at the World Championship currently held in the South Korean town of Gheongju.

To get to the semi-finals, Sumic beat Mexican Carolina Acosta Alvarez 5-2, New Zealand’s Verina Wihonghai 5-0, Russian Marina Cesuina 12-1 and Australian Carmen Marton 15-3. The Canadian Karine Sergeria turned over the semi-final match to Sumic without a fight.
Sumic lost in the finals to Thailand's representative, Rangsiya Nsaisom 1-3.

This is the second medal for Croatia’s representatives in Gyeongju, after Ana Zaninovic won gold in the category of up to 53 kilograms on Tuesday.

Dinamo´s manager Vaha here to stay

Dinamo’s manager Vahid Halilhodzic "Vaha" will not be going anywhere before his contract expires, setting to rest some rumours that had circulated in the Croatian press.

At a news conference held last week in Zagreb, Vaha and Mamic confirmed that the manager was here to stay, at least until the expiry of his two and a half year contract.
"I continue with my mission. One is finished, we won the title. The next one is to take the Cup, and the third one is to bring the team to UEFA's Champions League," Vaha told those gathered.

Dinamo´s manager Vaha here to stay

Dinamo’s manager Vahid Halilhodzic "Vaha" will not be going anywhere before his contract expires, setting to rest some rumours that had circulated in the Croatian press.

At a news conference held last week in Zagreb, Vaha and Mamic confirmed that the manager was here to stay, at least until the expiry of his two and a half year contract.
"I continue with my mission. One is finished, we won the title. The next one is to take the Cup, and the third one is to bring the team to UEFA's Champions League," Vaha told those gathered.

Zagreb cabbies seek mayor´s help amid alleged threats from competition

The owner of cab company Taxi Cammeo that started operating in Zagreb just last month, has solicited protection from the capital’s mayor against alleged threats and sabotage by the competition.
Kosta Minovski has asked the Zagreb mayor Milan Bandic to help his drivers who are allegedly being attacked while on duty and prevented from passing city knowledge exams.

© osijek031.com

"On Friday, three of our vehicles were blocked at [Zagreb’s lake] Jarun and the drivers received death threats. There were 10 of them and they attacked, everything is out of control, all the drivers are afraid. The three drivers immediately resigned out of fear for their own life," said Minovski.
Prior to Cammeo’s arrival, Zagreb market was serviced by Radio Taksi Zagreb. Minovski claims that Juraj Snidaric - a member of the commission that administers city knowledge exams and president of the Radio Taksi Zagreb association – has told his workers that none of them will pass the test. Snidaric sits on the commission as the representative of the Croatian Chamber of Trades and Crafts.
Minovski added that not all Zagreb taxi drivers are aggressive and that threats are coming from select addresses.
Sindaric has refused to comment on Minovski's accusations, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

Zagreb cabbies seek mayor´s help amid alleged threats from competition

The owner of cab company Taxi Cammeo that started operating in Zagreb just last month, has solicited protection from the capital’s mayor against alleged threats and sabotage by the competition.
Kosta Minovski has asked the Zagreb mayor Milan Bandic to help his drivers who are allegedly being attacked while on duty and prevented from passing city knowledge exams.

© osijek031.com

"On Friday, three of our vehicles were blocked at [Zagreb’s lake] Jarun and the drivers received death threats. There were 10 of them and they attacked, everything is out of control, all the drivers are afraid. The three drivers immediately resigned out of fear for their own life," said Minovski.
Prior to Cammeo’s arrival, Zagreb market was serviced by Radio Taksi Zagreb. Minovski claims that Juraj Snidaric - a member of the commission that administers city knowledge exams and president of the Radio Taksi Zagreb association – has told his workers that none of them will pass the test. Snidaric sits on the commission as the representative of the Croatian Chamber of Trades and Crafts.
Minovski added that not all Zagreb taxi drivers are aggressive and that threats are coming from select addresses.
Sindaric has refused to comment on Minovski's accusations, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

Zero-quota for new foreign workers angers some Croat entrepreneurs

© Michelangelo-36 / Wikimedia

11.
Croatian government has set a "zero-quota" for new working permits for foreigners this year to the dismay of some business owners that depend on a foreign workforce. Massage salon owner Marjan Turkalj says that a large project with Dubrovnik hotels fell through because he could not hire any more Thai masseuses. Dario Tomic, an owner of an Arabic restaurant in Zagreb, says his business depends on a cook that knows how to prepare these dishes. For the first time this year the Croatian government has brought down the quota of new work permits for foreigners to zero due to the high unemployment rate. It has allowed the renewal of 5,300 permits for those who have had them for the past few years. But entrepreneurs like Turkalj and Tomic complain that few of Croatia’s 300,000 unemployed have the skills that they need. "We can learn the techniques of Thai massage, but that will never be the same as if a Thai woman performs them. Her elbow and knee are not the same width as mine, and she with her 40-something kilograms can massage by walking on a person’s back, which I cannot … In short, I must hire Thai women. But this year, I cannot," complains Turkalj. Tomic managed to find a cook from Morrocco who is married to a Croatian woman and has a work permit. He says that his employee not only does not threaten a Croatian looking for a job, but creates 10 other positions. "People come to me because of an Arab cook. If I do not have him – they do not come. And if they come, then I can hire a cook’s assistant and waiters," says Tomic. According to the World Economic Forum’s competitveness in tourism scale, Croatia is in 38th place out of 139 countries. However when just the ease (or difficulty) of hiring a foreign worker is taken into consideration, Croatia falls down to 128th spot, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

Zero-quota for new foreign workers angers some Croat entrepreneurs

© Michelangelo-36 / Wikimedia

11.
Croatian government has set a "zero-quota" for new working permits for foreigners this year to the dismay of some business owners that depend on a foreign workforce. Massage salon owner Marjan Turkalj says that a large project with Dubrovnik hotels fell through because he could not hire any more Thai masseuses. Dario Tomic, an owner of an Arabic restaurant in Zagreb, says his business depends on a cook that knows how to prepare these dishes. For the first time this year the Croatian government has brought down the quota of new work permits for foreigners to zero due to the high unemployment rate. It has allowed the renewal of 5,300 permits for those who have had them for the past few years. But entrepreneurs like Turkalj and Tomic complain that few of Croatia’s 300,000 unemployed have the skills that they need. "We can learn the techniques of Thai massage, but that will never be the same as if a Thai woman performs them. Her elbow and knee are not the same width as mine, and she with her 40-something kilograms can massage by walking on a person’s back, which I cannot … In short, I must hire Thai women. But this year, I cannot," complains Turkalj. Tomic managed to find a cook from Morrocco who is married to a Croatian woman and has a work permit. He says that his employee not only does not threaten a Croatian looking for a job, but creates 10 other positions. "People come to me because of an Arab cook. If I do not have him – they do not come. And if they come, then I can hire a cook’s assistant and waiters," says Tomic. According to the World Economic Forum’s competitveness in tourism scale, Croatia is in 38th place out of 139 countries. However when just the ease (or difficulty) of hiring a foreign worker is taken into consideration, Croatia falls down to 128th spot, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

Deadline for Pleso concession proposals extended again

The deadline for potential concessionaires of Zagreb’s Pleso airport to submit their proposals has been extended once again, the daily 24 Sata writes.
The Ministry of Sea, Transport and Infrastructure said that the reason for the second extension is to give enough time to those interested to submit all required documents. The reason for the first extension, according to the Ministry, was a large number of interested parties.

© wikimedia commons

Croatian media reported however that the deadline may have been pushed back to give a favoured American company Houston Airport Systems (HAS) more time to fulfil the criteria.
The construction of the new terminal valued at 198 million Euros seems to be too expensive for potential concessionaires, who in addition would need to pay concessionary fees. The new deadline extension and the Ministry's explanation that lowering of the value of the investment would increase the bank's interest to lend funds for the project, hint that the current model may not be cost-effective.
The Ministry may be looking for ways to lower the construction costs to about 150 million Euros, the daily writes.
Some say that concessionaires are careful regarding the investment's value because of Pleso's recent numbers. The airport has recently established lower service rates, which has resulted in a revenue drop of 5.4 per cent (seven million kunas or 949,000 Euros loss) despite an 11 per cent increase in traffic.

Deadline for Pleso concession proposals extended again

The deadline for potential concessionaires of Zagreb’s Pleso airport to submit their proposals has been extended once again, the daily 24 Sata writes.
The Ministry of Sea, Transport and Infrastructure said that the reason for the second extension is to give enough time to those interested to submit all required documents. The reason for the first extension, according to the Ministry, was a large number of interested parties.

© wikimedia commons

Croatian media reported however that the deadline may have been pushed back to give a favoured American company Houston Airport Systems (HAS) more time to fulfil the criteria.
The construction of the new terminal valued at 198 million Euros seems to be too expensive for potential concessionaires, who in addition would need to pay concessionary fees. The new deadline extension and the Ministry's explanation that lowering of the value of the investment would increase the bank's interest to lend funds for the project, hint that the current model may not be cost-effective.
The Ministry may be looking for ways to lower the construction costs to about 150 million Euros, the daily writes.
Some say that concessionaires are careful regarding the investment's value because of Pleso's recent numbers. The airport has recently established lower service rates, which has resulted in a revenue drop of 5.4 per cent (seven million kunas or 949,000 Euros loss) despite an 11 per cent increase in traffic.

Shipyard away from sea making gains with aluminium boats

While many of Croatia’s large shipyards are battling financial troubles, aluminium work boat manufacturer Adriatic Workboats in Varazdin does not fear the future.

© adriaticworkboats.hr

11. 05. 11. - 15:00

The shipyard - located kilometres from the sea, in Brezje, Varazdin (northern Croatia) - makes aluminium boats 13 metres in length, easily transported to their destination by road.
The company’s director Damir Kralj says the company made their first aluminium ship five years ago for Swiss client, Weber. Soon after they partnered up with an Estonian company Baltic Workboats.
"We received their expert and at the beginning also financial help," says Kralj. The companies decided to transfer the entire aluminium boat production to Varazdin.
"We would thus ensure a secure future for our firm and increase the number of employees," Kralj said. Currently Adriatic Workboats employs five people and another 20 cooperants.
"The only problem are the raw materials. There is no producer in Croatia that satisfies high quality standards. So we get aluminium from Finland and Norway and engines from Sweden."
Currently the company is working on six customers' ships and a patrol ship for National Park Mljet.  As Croatia enters the European Union, it will need ships for the surveillance of the Schengen border areas, leading to further jobs, Kralj says.

Shipyard away from sea making gains with aluminium boats

While many of Croatia’s large shipyards are battling financial troubles, aluminium work boat manufacturer Adriatic Workboats in Varazdin does not fear the future.

© adriaticworkboats.hr

11. 05. 11. - 15:00

The shipyard - located kilometres from the sea, in Brezje, Varazdin (northern Croatia) - makes aluminium boats 13 metres in length, easily transported to their destination by road.
The company’s director Damir Kralj says the company made their first aluminium ship five years ago for Swiss client, Weber. Soon after they partnered up with an Estonian company Baltic Workboats.
"We received their expert and at the beginning also financial help," says Kralj. The companies decided to transfer the entire aluminium boat production to Varazdin.
"We would thus ensure a secure future for our firm and increase the number of employees," Kralj said. Currently Adriatic Workboats employs five people and another 20 cooperants.
"The only problem are the raw materials. There is no producer in Croatia that satisfies high quality standards. So we get aluminium from Finland and Norway and engines from Sweden."
Currently the company is working on six customers' ships and a patrol ship for National Park Mljet.  As Croatia enters the European Union, it will need ships for the surveillance of the Schengen border areas, leading to further jobs, Kralj says.

Davor Suker and New York Bulls team up for charity

The New York Red Bulls and soccer legend Davor Suker have teamed up to host the 2nd Annual "Mini Clinic for Charity" to benefit the Croatian American Charitable Foundation.
The event will take place on 21 May at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) campus in Old Westbury, Long Island.

"We want to thank both Mr. Suker and the Red Bull New York organisation for supporting our foundation with this clinic." said Tomislav Nogalo, President of the CACF. "Last year’s event was such a great success and now to have Red Bull New York join the event is truly remarkable." Joining Suker at the clinic will be some members of the Red Bull Reserves Team.
In addition to the three hour clinic, all participating students will receive two tickets to an upcoming Red Bulls match and a shirt commemorating the event, courtesy of Red Bull New York and Davor Suker.
The clinic will be for children between the ages of 9-13 and all proceeds will benefit the CACF and its ongoing battle to remove mines in Croatia.

Davor Suker and New York Bulls team up for charity

The New York Red Bulls and soccer legend Davor Suker have teamed up to host the 2nd Annual "Mini Clinic for Charity" to benefit the Croatian American Charitable Foundation.
The event will take place on 21 May at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) campus in Old Westbury, Long Island.

"We want to thank both Mr. Suker and the Red Bull New York organisation for supporting our foundation with this clinic." said Tomislav Nogalo, President of the CACF. "Last year’s event was such a great success and now to have Red Bull New York join the event is truly remarkable." Joining Suker at the clinic will be some members of the Red Bull Reserves Team.
In addition to the three hour clinic, all participating students will receive two tickets to an upcoming Red Bulls match and a shirt commemorating the event, courtesy of Red Bull New York and Davor Suker.
The clinic will be for children between the ages of 9-13 and all proceeds will benefit the CACF and its ongoing battle to remove mines in Croatia.

Cargo ship hits fishing vessel in Rijeka port

The cargo ship "Nazli" sailing under Cook Island flag has hit a Croatian fishing boat Ogorje while trying to leave Rijeka port.
The ship manned by a crew from Turkey most likely suffered a technical malfunction, the daily Jutarnji List writes.
Ogorje’s captain received light injuries during the accident. The collision did not lead to the pollution of the surrounding waters.
A full investigation is underway, during which the ship must remain in the harbour, the daily writes.

Cargo ship hits fishing vessel in Rijeka port

The cargo ship "Nazli" sailing under Cook Island flag has hit a Croatian fishing boat Ogorje while trying to leave Rijeka port.
The ship manned by a crew from Turkey most likely suffered a technical malfunction, the daily Jutarnji List writes.
Ogorje’s captain received light injuries during the accident. The collision did not lead to the pollution of the surrounding waters.
A full investigation is underway, during which the ship must remain in the harbour, the daily writes.

Zagreb´s Chicago street lives its namesake

The number of crimes in Zagreb’s Chicago street has made it comparable to its namesake, the American city that was once home to legendary mafia boss Al Capone.
The last and the most gruesome of incidents that took place in this notorious street is the murder of two men at hands of their schizophrenic brother/son over the Easter weekend this year.
Resident Vinka says that her neighbourhood is no different to any other, but that this last crime has made it harder for her to sleep at night.

But the statistics show that the street located in Zagreb’s Borovje neighbourhood has had a fair share of out-of-ordinary crimes. Incidents such as a fire set in the elevator that almost suffocated a 14-year-old asthma sufferer, a mass brawl that included an eight-month pregnant woman who broke another's nose, and a serial wheelchair thief are just some of the more unusual offences that have taken place there.
In the last four years, the street was also the location for 16 car thefts, 10 apartment break-ins, three store robberies and theft of 116 meters of copper telephone wire, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

Zagreb´s Chicago street lives its namesake

The number of crimes in Zagreb’s Chicago street has made it comparable to its namesake, the American city that was once home to legendary mafia boss Al Capone.
The last and the most gruesome of incidents that took place in this notorious street is the murder of two men at hands of their schizophrenic brother/son over the Easter weekend this year.
Resident Vinka says that her neighbourhood is no different to any other, but that this last crime has made it harder for her to sleep at night.

But the statistics show that the street located in Zagreb’s Borovje neighbourhood has had a fair share of out-of-ordinary crimes. Incidents such as a fire set in the elevator that almost suffocated a 14-year-old asthma sufferer, a mass brawl that included an eight-month pregnant woman who broke another's nose, and a serial wheelchair thief are just some of the more unusual offences that have taken place there.
In the last four years, the street was also the location for 16 car thefts, 10 apartment break-ins, three store robberies and theft of 116 meters of copper telephone wire, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

Rating agency sceptical of Croatia´s ability to finish EU negotiations in June

The rating agency Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) is sceptical of Croatia’s ability to finish European Union negotiations in June as corruption, unsolved war crimes, problems with the return of refugees and ailing shipyards continue to undermine its deadline goal.
According to D&B’s report, Croatia is unlikely to enter the European Union in 2012 due to remaining issues that are in large part tied to one of the remaining open chapters - chapter 23 on judiciary.
The report also looks at the country’s blossoming "grey economy" that contributes 35 per cent to its gross domestic product (GDP).
Even lower estimates point to the fact that the share of the grey economy is considerably higher than the central European averages, the report states, adding that it is no wonder that the government has suggested laws that would ban unregistered activities.

Rating agency sceptical of Croatia´s ability to finish EU negotiations in June

The rating agency Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) is sceptical of Croatia’s ability to finish European Union negotiations in June as corruption, unsolved war crimes, problems with the return of refugees and ailing shipyards continue to undermine its deadline goal.
According to D&B’s report, Croatia is unlikely to enter the European Union in 2012 due to remaining issues that are in large part tied to one of the remaining open chapters - chapter 23 on judiciary.
The report also looks at the country’s blossoming "grey economy" that contributes 35 per cent to its gross domestic product (GDP).
Even lower estimates point to the fact that the share of the grey economy is considerably higher than the central European averages, the report states, adding that it is no wonder that the government has suggested laws that would ban unregistered activities.

Dubrovnik mayor receives 24-hour protection amid SMS threats

Dubrovnik Mayor Andro Vlahusic is under 24-hour protection after allegedly receiving a threatening SMS message, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

Vlahusic will be surveilled from "a distance" and will not be accompanied by bodyguards.
Although official sources have not confirmed the reason for his increased protection, rumours have it that the mayor received a threatening message that warranted more caution.
Some speculate that the message may have come from cultural milieu angered by announced grant cuts or from taxi associations protesting against the recent decision to increase the number of cabs in the city from 128 to 166.

Dubrovnik mayor receives 24-hour protection amid SMS threats

Dubrovnik Mayor Andro Vlahusic is under 24-hour protection after allegedly receiving a threatening SMS message, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

Vlahusic will be surveilled from "a distance" and will not be accompanied by bodyguards.
Although official sources have not confirmed the reason for his increased protection, rumours have it that the mayor received a threatening message that warranted more caution.
Some speculate that the message may have come from cultural milieu angered by announced grant cuts or from taxi associations protesting against the recent decision to increase the number of cabs in the city from 128 to 166.

Anti-corruption bureau investigates youth branch of HDZ party

Croatian anti-corruption bureau USKOK is investigating the Youth of Croatian Democratic Union (Mladez HDZ) for handing out close to 67,700 Euros to their members for "volunteering" in the campaign.
The youth branch of the conservative majority HDZ party is said to have paid its members between 5,000 and 10,000 kunas (677 to 1,355 Euros) in the first couple of months of 2008.
This money was never part of the party’s official budget and is suspected to have come from some public organisation.

HDZ Youth members would come to the government building Banski Dvori to pick up the money, the daily Jutarnji List writes. Although no official party record of volunteers exists, the name of the suspected HDZ Youth members are registered in the building’s sign-in log.
HDZ Youth was headed at the time by Mislav Banek, a personal choice of the country’s then-Prime Minister, Ivo Sanader.
Ivo Sanader is currently being investigated for fraud in his home country and in Austria.

Anti-corruption bureau investigates youth branch of HDZ party

Croatian anti-corruption bureau USKOK is investigating the Youth of Croatian Democratic Union (Mladez HDZ) for handing out close to 67,700 Euros to their members for "volunteering" in the campaign.
The youth branch of the conservative majority HDZ party is said to have paid its members between 5,000 and 10,000 kunas (677 to 1,355 Euros) in the first couple of months of 2008.
This money was never part of the party’s official budget and is suspected to have come from some public organisation.

HDZ Youth members would come to the government building Banski Dvori to pick up the money, the daily Jutarnji List writes. Although no official party record of volunteers exists, the name of the suspected HDZ Youth members are registered in the building’s sign-in log.
HDZ Youth was headed at the time by Mislav Banek, a personal choice of the country’s then-Prime Minister, Ivo Sanader.
Ivo Sanader is currently being investigated for fraud in his home country and in Austria.

25 rescuers saving a man in a pub

A man in Croatia will face charges after he got drunk and phoned the rescue services saying he got stuck in a cave.

Twenty-five rescuers were sent to the southern village of Tijarica, but instead of finding the 35-year-old Luka P. in a cave, they found him drunk in a local pub.
The man will be reported for the nuisance call-out.

25 rescuers saving a man in a pub

A man in Croatia will face charges after he got drunk and phoned the rescue services saying he got stuck in a cave.

Twenty-five rescuers were sent to the southern village of Tijarica, but instead of finding the 35-year-old Luka P. in a cave, they found him drunk in a local pub.
The man will be reported for the nuisance call-out.

Zagreb´s Remetinec prison ready to receive ex-PM Sanader

Zagreb Remetinec prison is preparing for the arrival of the former Croatian Prime Minister Ivo Sanader, the daily 24 Sata writes.

Sanader will not share his cell with any other prisoner for security reasons, and will not have the right to use a mobile phone. He will however be allowed to bring a television set, which he could watch until 11pm.
Sanader will also be allowed a 2-hour walk in the prison courtyard.
The ex-PM’s lawyer Goran Suic said that his client was feeling well and is ready to come to Croatia. He is also willing to address all accusations but wishes for a fair trial.

Zagreb´s Remetinec prison ready to receive ex-PM Sanader

Zagreb Remetinec prison is preparing for the arrival of the former Croatian Prime Minister Ivo Sanader, the daily 24 Sata writes.

Sanader will not share his cell with any other prisoner for security reasons, and will not have the right to use a mobile phone. He will however be allowed to bring a television set, which he could watch until 11pm.
Sanader will also be allowed a 2-hour walk in the prison courtyard.
The ex-PM’s lawyer Goran Suic said that his client was feeling well and is ready to come to Croatia. He is also willing to address all accusations but wishes for a fair trial.

Josipovic awarded Premio Galileo 2000 for peace

 Croatian President Ivo Josipovic has received Premio Galileo 2000 prize for peace for his efforts in bringing about the reconciliation amongst former Yugoslavia’s nations and implementation of democratic values in the region.
President Josipovic dedicated the honour handed out at the La Pergola theatre in Florence, to the victims of war, the daily 24 Sata writes.
"The most important duty of all politicians is a fight for peace" Josipovic said, reminding that Croatia and its neighbouring countries have recently lived through a very bitter experience of such conflict.
Josipovic received the recognition for his long-time efforts in working toward the European vision of southeastern Europe, human rights and international justice, the organisers said.
The Premio Galileo 2000 was created by lawyer Alfonso De Virgiliis in 1996 as an award for musical accomplishments, the daily TPortal writes.
Over the years it acquired other categories of recognition and the first Galileo prize for peace was give to Isreali President and Nobel Prize holder, Shimon Peres.

Josipovic awarded Premio Galileo 2000 for peace

 Croatian President Ivo Josipovic has received Premio Galileo 2000 prize for peace for his efforts in bringing about the reconciliation amongst former Yugoslavia’s nations and implementation of democratic values in the region.
President Josipovic dedicated the honour handed out at the La Pergola theatre in Florence, to the victims of war, the daily 24 Sata writes.
"The most important duty of all politicians is a fight for peace" Josipovic said, reminding that Croatia and its neighbouring countries have recently lived through a very bitter experience of such conflict.
Josipovic received the recognition for his long-time efforts in working toward the European vision of southeastern Europe, human rights and international justice, the organisers said.
The Premio Galileo 2000 was created by lawyer Alfonso De Virgiliis in 1996 as an award for musical accomplishments, the daily TPortal writes.
Over the years it acquired other categories of recognition and the first Galileo prize for peace was give to Isreali President and Nobel Prize holder, Shimon Peres.

Croatia to close chapter 13 on fisheries

 Croatia has fulfilled all measures needed to close the European Union negotiations chapter 13 on fisheries, but some of the concessions may be unacceptable to the country's fishermen, the daily Jutarnji List writes.
The European Union expects an exception from the protected fishery zone (ZERP) for the members states until a joint solution "in the spirit of EU" is found. ZERP was established in 2008 in response to protests by the two most affected states, Slovenia and Italy.
Croatian fishermen may also not be happy with Croatia's responsibility to open its territory to other member states for fishing, the daily writes. Many of the Mediterranean countries however have taken advantage of the ban available to Croatia and valid until the end of 2012. According to professor Alen Soldo from Split University, there is a large interest in extending this ban and he believes Zagreb should insist on that.
Daniel Kolec, the President of the Umag association of fishermen Mare Croaticum, says his colleagues will not be happy with not applying ZERP to EU member states.
He is also afraid that Slovenia may be allowed to fish all along the western coast of Istria. Although this would mean Croatian fishermen could also fish in Slovenian waters, Kolec believes this is not a fair deal as there are not as many fish there.
"If this information proves true, we are likely to have another protest. We have had enough with blackmail," says Kolec.

Croatia to close chapter 13 on fisheries

 Croatia has fulfilled all measures needed to close the European Union negotiations chapter 13 on fisheries, but some of the concessions may be unacceptable to the country's fishermen, the daily Jutarnji List writes.
The European Union expects an exception from the protected fishery zone (ZERP) for the members states until a joint solution "in the spirit of EU" is found. ZERP was established in 2008 in response to protests by the two most affected states, Slovenia and Italy.
Croatian fishermen may also not be happy with Croatia's responsibility to open its territory to other member states for fishing, the daily writes. Many of the Mediterranean countries however have taken advantage of the ban available to Croatia and valid until the end of 2012. According to professor Alen Soldo from Split University, there is a large interest in extending this ban and he believes Zagreb should insist on that.
Daniel Kolec, the President of the Umag association of fishermen Mare Croaticum, says his colleagues will not be happy with not applying ZERP to EU member states.
He is also afraid that Slovenia may be allowed to fish all along the western coast of Istria. Although this would mean Croatian fishermen could also fish in Slovenian waters, Kolec believes this is not a fair deal as there are not as many fish there.
"If this information proves true, we are likely to have another protest. We have had enough with blackmail," says Kolec.

Support for EU membership lowest in five years

The support for Croatia’s European Union membership has fallen to its lowest point in the last five years, the latest monthly survey CRO Demoscop shows.

Some 44.6 per cent of Croatians support EU membership or 6.2 per cent fewer than when the country’s pulse was taken last month. Compared to May of last year when 52.5 per cent of support was registered, this is even a more dramatic fall.

EU membership had most fans in June 2010 or 53.1 per cent since the survey’s inception in January 2004.

The daily Dalje believes that the guilty verdicts for Croatian generals Ante Gotovina and Mladen Markac – sentenced to 24 and 18 years in prison for war crimes in The Hague – are the main reason behind the dramatic fall in support.

Some 41.8 per cent of Croatians are clearly against EU membership, the highest percentage in the last 12 months and four per cent more than in May last year. There are 13.6 per cent of undecided, also another record.

The phone survey is conducted at the beginning of each month with a sample of 1,300 people.

Support for EU membership lowest in five years

The support for Croatia’s European Union membership has fallen to its lowest point in the last five years, the latest monthly survey CRO Demoscop shows.

Some 44.6 per cent of Croatians support EU membership or 6.2 per cent fewer than when the country’s pulse was taken last month. Compared to May of last year when 52.5 per cent of support was registered, this is even a more dramatic fall.

EU membership had most fans in June 2010 or 53.1 per cent since the survey’s inception in January 2004.

The daily Dalje believes that the guilty verdicts for Croatian generals Ante Gotovina and Mladen Markac – sentenced to 24 and 18 years in prison for war crimes in The Hague – are the main reason behind the dramatic fall in support.

Some 41.8 per cent of Croatians are clearly against EU membership, the highest percentage in the last 12 months and four per cent more than in May last year. There are 13.6 per cent of undecided, also another record.

The phone survey is conducted at the beginning of each month with a sample of 1,300 people.

Osama bin Laden spent three days in Split in 1992

Terrorist organisation al-Qaida’s head Osama bin Laden had spent three days in a Split hotel before travelling on to establish a mujahedeen camp in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1992.

Bin Laden – killed two days ago in Pakistan – stayed in a Split hotel as part of an Islamic humanitarian organisation that was visiting war torn Bosnia and Herzegovina. Later, accompanied by UNPROFOR, he proceeded to Meskovic village near the Bosnian town of Tuzla where a mujahedeen training camp was established, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

This information is found in reports given to American intelligence agencies by double agent Ali Muhamed, operating under the false name Abu Abdallah. The reports state that 14 future members of terrorist organisation al-Qaida joined the camp at the time.

The then-director of the hotel Frane Kontic remembers receiving the man who would later become one of the world’s most wanted for his roles in numerous terrorist attacks, the most notorious one being the destruction of New York City’s World Trade Centre.

"I remember, a man from Bosnia in charge of humanitarian logistics came into my office and reserved six rooms on the seventh floor, saying that the people in question are

Osama bin Laden spent three days in Split in 1992

Terrorist organisation al-Qaida’s head Osama bin Laden had spent three days in a Split hotel before travelling on to establish a mujahedeen camp in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1992.

Bin Laden – killed two days ago in Pakistan – stayed in a Split hotel as part of an Islamic humanitarian organisation that was visiting war torn Bosnia and Herzegovina. Later, accompanied by UNPROFOR, he proceeded to Meskovic village near the Bosnian town of Tuzla where a mujahedeen training camp was established, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

This information is found in reports given to American intelligence agencies by double agent Ali Muhamed, operating under the false name Abu Abdallah. The reports state that 14 future members of terrorist organisation al-Qaida joined the camp at the time.

The then-director of the hotel Frane Kontic remembers receiving the man who would later become one of the world’s most wanted for his roles in numerous terrorist attacks, the most notorious one being the destruction of New York City’s World Trade Centre.

"I remember, a man from Bosnia in charge of humanitarian logistics came into my office and reserved six rooms on the seventh floor, saying that the people in question are

Few Croatians happy with way things are two decades after independence

Six out of ten Croatians are dissatisfied with their country’s progress since their independence in 1991, new investigations show.

Market research agency GfK finds that 58 per cent of Croatian citizens are unhappy with the way things are 20 years since the country’s parting from former Yugoslavia. A survey of 1,000 people older than 15 shows that only eight per cent are happy with their state's accomplishments so far.

A third, or 33 per cent of the surveyed said that they are "equally satisfied and dissatisfied."

The majority of the discontented or 67 per cent come from the country’s richest area, the north west.  On the other hand, the poorest region of eastern Slavonia seems to be the happiest with Croatia’s progress (44 per cent). Slavonia was once the richest region, but was later devastated by the war of independence from former Yugoslavia (1991-1995).

Sociologist Ivan Buric is not surprised about the fact that the poorest - Slavonia -  seems to be the happiest.

"Slavonians feel that it is an accomplishment to have survived the war and that their houses have been renovated. On the other hand, residents of the richer, north-western parts of Croatia and Istria and Primorje did not have to think as much about what they will eat and whether they will have a roof over their heads, but they were thinking about what we could have accomplished if there was no war and stealing during privatization," says Buric.

Some 64 per cent of Istria, Primorje and Gorski Kotar are dissatisfied with how things turned out in these last 20 years, with 57 per cent of Dalmatians seconding their opinion. Zagreb follows with 56 per cent of the discontented.

Men are slightly more unhappy than the women – 62 to 58 per cent. Those between the ages 30 and 39 as well as older than 65 lead the dissatisfied list when looking at age groups.

Dissatisfaction seems to be correlated to monthly income or living standards of the surveyed: for example, 72 per cent of those earning up to 1,800 kunas per month (244 Euros) tend not to be happy with they way things are.

Some 67 per cent of earning between 244 and 474 Euros per month are dissatisfied, while 57 per cent of those with earning between 474 and 1,111 Euros would claim the same. Out of the households receiving between 1,111 Euro and 1,490 Euros, 54 per cent say they are dissatisfied.

Only in those households earning more than 1,490 Euros is the share of unhappy people down to below half, or 31 per cent.

Buric says that pessimism does not necessarily translate into Yugonostalgia, or longing for the old state.

"Sentiments toward former times exist, which is normal in all transitional states…That is a consequence of a sudden jump from relative secure into uncertain, competitive society, where everything is marketing," says Buric.

"The average fail…In short time big changes happened: farmers and workers in manufacturing occupations fell out of the competition, while other layers of society do not feel secure," he added.

Few Croatians happy with way things are two decades after independence

Six out of ten Croatians are dissatisfied with their country’s progress since their independence in 1991, new investigations show.

Market research agency GfK finds that 58 per cent of Croatian citizens are unhappy with the way things are 20 years since the country’s parting from former Yugoslavia. A survey of 1,000 people older than 15 shows that only eight per cent are happy with their state's accomplishments so far.

A third, or 33 per cent of the surveyed said that they are "equally satisfied and dissatisfied."

The majority of the discontented or 67 per cent come from the country’s richest area, the north west.  On the other hand, the poorest region of eastern Slavonia seems to be the happiest with Croatia’s progress (44 per cent). Slavonia was once the richest region, but was later devastated by the war of independence from former Yugoslavia (1991-1995).

Sociologist Ivan Buric is not surprised about the fact that the poorest - Slavonia -  seems to be the happiest.

"Slavonians feel that it is an accomplishment to have survived the war and that their houses have been renovated. On the other hand, residents of the richer, north-western parts of Croatia and Istria and Primorje did not have to think as much about what they will eat and whether they will have a roof over their heads, but they were thinking about what we could have accomplished if there was no war and stealing during privatization," says Buric.

Some 64 per cent of Istria, Primorje and Gorski Kotar are dissatisfied with how things turned out in these last 20 years, with 57 per cent of Dalmatians seconding their opinion. Zagreb follows with 56 per cent of the discontented.

Men are slightly more unhappy than the women – 62 to 58 per cent. Those between the ages 30 and 39 as well as older than 65 lead the dissatisfied list when looking at age groups.

Dissatisfaction seems to be correlated to monthly income or living standards of the surveyed: for example, 72 per cent of those earning up to 1,800 kunas per month (244 Euros) tend not to be happy with they way things are.

Some 67 per cent of earning between 244 and 474 Euros per month are dissatisfied, while 57 per cent of those with earning between 474 and 1,111 Euros would claim the same. Out of the households receiving between 1,111 Euro and 1,490 Euros, 54 per cent say they are dissatisfied.

Only in those households earning more than 1,490 Euros is the share of unhappy people down to below half, or 31 per cent.

Buric says that pessimism does not necessarily translate into Yugonostalgia, or longing for the old state.

"Sentiments toward former times exist, which is normal in all transitional states…That is a consequence of a sudden jump from relative secure into uncertain, competitive society, where everything is marketing," says Buric.

"The average fail…In short time big changes happened: farmers and workers in manufacturing occupations fell out of the competition, while other layers of society do not feel secure," he added.

Fill me like Ronaldo

Croat starlet Nives Celsius has announced she is recording the song Goal dedicated to footballers and footballer's girlfriends and wives.
The Croat football international Dino Drpic's wife who earlier admitted she was having sex in the middle of a football stadium, expects a global success of the song that will have an English version as well.
"Goal, goal, goal, score me a goal. I'm naked, you are naked, score me a goal", is just one part of the song that mentiones well known football stars, like "Be my Torres Fernando, keep filling me like Ronaldo" or "Shake me my little Messi".

Fill me like Ronaldo

Croat starlet Nives Celsius has announced she is recording the song Goal dedicated to footballers and footballer's girlfriends and wives.
The Croat football international Dino Drpic's wife who earlier admitted she was having sex in the middle of a football stadium, expects a global success of the song that will have an English version as well.
"Goal, goal, goal, score me a goal. I'm naked, you are naked, score me a goal", is just one part of the song that mentiones well known football stars, like "Be my Torres Fernando, keep filling me like Ronaldo" or "Shake me my little Messi".

Croats in diaspora to receive more privileges

The Croatian government has adopted a special strategy that would guide the country’s relations with Croats abroad and which cements various privileges for the diaspora.

Those Croats living in other countries and who do not have Croatian citizenship will be able to obtain passports more easily in the future. Those whose current homelands ban dual citizenship will be eligible for the "status of Croat without Croatian citizenship," with which they would receive numerous privileges such as easier matriculation in Croatian schools and universities, the right to purchase property, apply for jobs and scholarships, and others.

The government is also working on a law that would guide the country's relationship with Croats abroad and establish a special body dedicated to the diaspora. The government also plans to institute a public day of Croats abroad. The date has not yet been set, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

"This is an obligation that we have according to the Croatian Constitution," the Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor said.

According to government data, there are some 3.75 million Croats living outside of the country’s borders. They are divided into three groups – Croats in Bosnia who are constituent people of that land (400,000), Croatian autochthonous minorities in 12 European countries (350,000) and the rest of diaspora (3 million), the majority of them residing in transatlantic countries.

These Croats will now also receive privileges during visits to Croatia, with the establishment of the so-called "CRO Card" that would provide discounts for certain tourism-related services. Those rights will also be extended to family members of Croats abroad, as well as Croats that do not have the country's citizenship or status of "Croat without Croatian citizenship." They would enjoy an accelerated procedure when it comes to getting a visa.

Deputy PM for Investments Domagoj Ivan Milosevic said that diaspora is a welcome investor in Croatia, since it has the capital, new ideas and energy.

The Croatian daily Jutarnji List writes that it is significant to note that the government's move comes in the election year. The leading coalition is headed by the  conservative Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), which has in previous elections found significant support in the Croatian diaspora.

Croats in diaspora to receive more privileges

The Croatian government has adopted a special strategy that would guide the country’s relations with Croats abroad and which cements various privileges for the diaspora.

Those Croats living in other countries and who do not have Croatian citizenship will be able to obtain passports more easily in the future. Those whose current homelands ban dual citizenship will be eligible for the "status of Croat without Croatian citizenship," with which they would receive numerous privileges such as easier matriculation in Croatian schools and universities, the right to purchase property, apply for jobs and scholarships, and others.

The government is also working on a law that would guide the country's relationship with Croats abroad and establish a special body dedicated to the diaspora. The government also plans to institute a public day of Croats abroad. The date has not yet been set, the daily Jutarnji List writes.

"This is an obligation that we have according to the Croatian Constitution," the Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor said.

According to government data, there are some 3.75 million Croats living outside of the country’s borders. They are divided into three groups – Croats in Bosnia who are constituent people of that land (400,000), Croatian autochthonous minorities in 12 European countries (350,000) and the rest of diaspora (3 million), the majority of them residing in transatlantic countries.

These Croats will now also receive privileges during visits to Croatia, with the establishment of the so-called "CRO Card" that would provide discounts for certain tourism-related services. Those rights will also be extended to family members of Croats abroad, as well as Croats that do not have the country's citizenship or status of "Croat without Croatian citizenship." They would enjoy an accelerated procedure when it comes to getting a visa.

Deputy PM for Investments Domagoj Ivan Milosevic said that diaspora is a welcome investor in Croatia, since it has the capital, new ideas and energy.

The Croatian daily Jutarnji List writes that it is significant to note that the government's move comes in the election year. The leading coalition is headed by the  conservative Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), which has in previous elections found significant support in the Croatian diaspora.