As every year, the Croatian Association of Congress Tourism Professionals organized a fam trip for its members, a two-day program on June 10 and 11, during which they explored the offerings of the Crikvenica–Vinodol Riviera. About fifteen members—representatives from the largest MICE, DMC, and PCO agencies in Croatia—were hosted by the Tourist Boards of the City of Crikvenica, the City of Novi Vinodolski, and the Vinodol Municipality. The program included a panoramic boat ride, tours of congress halls, tourist highlights, and cultural‑historical landmarks.

Special attention was devoted to the wine and gastronomy offering, with which the participants were highly impressed. The group stayed at the 5*-Hotel Miramare, eager to position itself as a hub for congress tourism—and delighted attendees with a superb dinner prepared by Executive Chef Dalibor Karlović.

The aim of this fam trip was to showcase the Crikvenica–Vinodol Riviera as a year-round destination and Hotel Miramare as a venue with extensive congress capacities, ideal for extending the tourist season.

Participants particularly enjoyed exploring the Vinodol hinterland, many of whom were visiting for the first time. Sites included Lake Tribalj, Drivenik, the tower in Bribir, viewpoints called “Eyes of Vinodol”, and especially the Klović House—all hidden gems previously unknown to many congress tourism professionals.

Hotel Village Balatura in Tribalj offered a vegetarian cuisine (with vegan or gluten-free options) sourced from local, sustainable ingredients. Local recipes were cleverly combined with modern culinary techniques under the guidance of Chef Tanja Ratković, whose experience spans home and abroad.

“Congress tourism is a specialized segment that can help extend the season—enhancing pre- and post-season. Although congress attendees visit on business, they spend time in the destination and deserve to be considered our visitors—capable of enjoying the place 24/7. Many return with their families or friends, this is how holidays begin,” said Tena Peričić, Director, Novi Vinodolski Tourist Board.

“We are always ready to prepare programs for all types of agencies, because they must experience first-hand what they are recommending. Business tourists are primarily focused on their event, but they often explore the region and its unique offerings. Diverse lodging, hidden natural gems, traditional events, scenic advantages, rich tourism tradition, and outdoor activities—combined with beautiful beaches and top-notch wine and cuisine—ensure they leave our Riviera with unforgettable memories,” added Marijana Biondić, Director, Crikvenica Tourist Board.