According to the Republic Institute of Statistics (RZS), this growth is primarily driven by foreign tourists.

The data reveals an impressive 11.4% increase in the number of international visitors, while domestic tourists recorded a modest 1.8% rise in overnight stays.

The largest number of tourists came from Turkey, with 26,626 arrivals. China followed with 16,822 tourists, and Bosnia and Herzegovina ranked third with 16,664 visitors.

Belgrade continues to be Serbia’s top tourist destination, boasting 330,161 overnight stays. Novi Sad registered 53,497 overnight stays, and Niš recorded 32,194.

Among spa destinations, Sokobanja led with 56,533 overnight stays, followed closely by Vrnjačka Banja with 56,242. Mountain resorts also showed strong performance, with a total of 231,476 overnight stays. Zlatibor was the most visited mountain resort with 85,412 overnight stays, followed by Kopaonik (35,050) and Tara (29,540).

These positive trends underscore the growing appeal of Serbia as a travel destination, particularly among international tourists, highlighting the country’s diverse attractions and increasing prominence on the global tourism map.

The post Foreign Tourists Fuel Positive Trends in Serbian Tourism appeared first on CorD Magazine.

Swimming in the Seine was banned for over 100 years due to pollution concerns. However, Hidalgo’s swim aims to reassure both Parisians and international visitors of the river’s improved water quality. “The water is very good. A bit cold, but not too bad,” Hidalgo commented after her swim.

This public display comes after water quality tests in early June indicated unsafe levels of certain bacteria in the Seine, where several Olympic events are scheduled to take place. Since then, rigorous efforts have been made to enhance the water quality, resulting in significant improvements.

Hidalgo’s swim is a symbolic gesture of Paris’s commitment to environmental health and readiness to host a safe and successful Olympic Games.

Photo: facebook/HidalgoAnne

The post Paris Mayor Swims in the Seine to Demonstrate River’s Cleanliness Ahead of Olympics appeared first on CorD Magazine.

The winners of the race include Slovenian aces and currently two of the world’s top cyclists, Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar. Throughout its rich history, the race has become a unique sporting event that, with its varied stage routes, connects places across Slovenia and attracts large crowds of spectators, both on the roadside and in front of TV screens, spreading the good word about Slovenia and its image as a boutique and green country.

Although it officially celebrated its 30th anniversary last year, the 2024 Tour of Slovenia is the 30th edition of the race. The race has been cancelled only once. In 2024, cyclists will race in Slovenia between 12 and 16 June.

The post Celebrating 30 Years: The Tour Of Slovenia appeared first on CorD Magazine.

The report, which evaluates bathing water quality in 27 EU member states as well as Albania and Switzerland, places Croatia at the top with 99.1% of its coastal sites rated as excellent.

Data from the report, which encompasses findings from the previous year, shows that out of 894 coastal bathing sites in Croatia, 886 were classified as excellent in quality. This statistic not only highlights Croatia’s leading position but also underscores the superior quality of coastal waters compared to inland waters across Europe.

The Bathing Water Directive, which bases its assessment on microbiological data, classifies waters into four categories: poor, sufficient, good, and excellent. In total, 936 bathing sites in Croatia were tested in 2023, with 905 (96.7%) achieving an excellent rating, 22 good, and 5 sufficient, while none fell into the poor category.

This achievement reflects Croatia’s dedication to maintaining high environmental standards and preserving its beaches, making it a top destination for swimmers and beachgoers seeking pristine natural conditions.

The post Croatia Leads Europe in Coastal Water Quality appeared first on CorD Magazine.

The final phase of construction, involving the last of six towers, will mark the completion of the basilica’s structure, the managing organization announced last week.

“The Chapel of the Assumption is expected to be completed in 2025, with the Tower of Jesus Christ following in 2026,” the statement outlined, coinciding with the release of the 2023 annual report.

The Tower of Jesus Christ, reaching a height of 172.5 meters, will be crowned with a 17-meter high cross.

Upon completion, the Sagrada Familia will surpass Germany’s Ulm Minster as the tallest church globally.

Initiated in 1882, the construction of the Sagrada Familia was led by the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, who envisioned the monumental structure with 18 colossal spire-shaped towers, each symbolizing different biblical figures — 12 apostles, four evangelists, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus.

The post Sagrada Familia Completion Set for 2026 appeared first on CorD Magazine.

The report evaluates the investment climate globally, using an index of 100 indicators across categories like business perception, economic fundamentals, and regulatory frameworks, placing Slovenia 26th worldwide for its investment appeal.

The analysis underscores Europe’s prominence in the global investment arena, with Denmark, Sweden, Finland, the USA, and the UK occupying the top spots for their conducive business environments. This distinction for Slovenia and its Adriatic neighbors reflects the varied economic landscapes and investment opportunities within the region.

The post Slovenia Tops Investment Attractiveness in the Balkans appeared first on CorD Magazine.

The city, renowned for its vibrant culture and historic sites, saw these tourists contribute to a total of 3.45 million overnight stays, a testament to its growing appeal as a travel destination.

The surge in tourism was predominantly driven by international visitors, who accounted for nearly 1.19 million of the total tourist count, registering a significant 21% jump from 2022. This international interest in Belgrade translated into almost three million overnight stays by foreign guests, an 11% increase compared to the preceding year.

The data, compiled by the City of Belgrade’s Administration Secretariat, highlights the diverse origins of Belgrade’s visitors. Tourists from Turkey led the pack with an impressive 89% surge, reaching 145,159, followed by Russians and Germans, who also showed notable increases. The city also drew considerable numbers from neighboring countries and beyond, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, China, Greece, Romania, the United States, and Italy, further underscoring Belgrade’s position on the global tourism map.

The post Belgrade’s Tourism Booms with Over 1.3 Million Visitors in 2023 appeared first on CorD Magazine.

Ljubljana Castle, a historic emblem overlooking Slovenia’s capital, has recently unveiled its final masterpiece within its ancient walls. 

The Kazemate, a grand chamber extending 31 metres, has been reborn as a versatile venue following a €2.5 million revamp, initiated on 25 January.

This space, rich in history, has transitioned from a medieval passageway to a penitentiary dormitory, and later, a carpentry workshop. The restoration, part of a project since 1969, aimed to breathe life into the castle while maintaining its historic essence, transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub. 

The architects behind this revival, Kregar, Kerin, and Ravnikar Jr., have been lauded by the city for their innovative work. While the castle’s internal renovations conclude, efforts to rejuvenate its surroundings continue. 

Hosting a plethora of cultural events, the castle drew over 1.19 million visitors last year, marking a significant increase and highlighting its appeal to an international audience.

The post Ljubljana Castle Unveils Final Renovation: A New Cultural Epoch appeared first on CorD Magazine.

Selected for its exemplary rural tourism, Gostilje is noted for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism practices. Key attractions include the well-maintained Gostilje Waterfall, with local legends promising eternal love for couples who walk behind it.

Developments in the village, such as the restoration of socialist leader Dimitrije Tucović’s birthplace, alongside modern tourist facilities like a swimming pool and football pitch, enhance its appeal. Tourists can enjoy authentic village life, local gastronomy, and homemade products in a well-connected and accessible setting.

Gostilje’s innovative approach to tourism, balancing modernity with tradition and sustainability, makes it a strong contender in the global competition for the best tourist village.

The post Gostilje Village in Serbia’s Zlatibor Region Nominated for World’s Best Tourist Village appeared first on CorD Magazine.

These bookings, made through online platforms such as Airbnb, Booking, Expedia, or TripAdvisor, marked a 13.4% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

Data from Eurostat revealed that platform-based tourism continued to exceed pre-pandemic levels, setting new monthly records: In July, accommodation booked via online platforms accounted for 115.7 million nights, up 10.7% from July 2022. August saw this figure rise to 124.7 million nights, an 11.7% increase from August 2022, while September reached 69.1 million nights, a substantial 21.6% rise compared to September 2022.

In the first nine months of 2023, guests spent over 546.2 million nights in EU short-term accommodation units booked through online platforms. This significant growth, compared to the same period in 2022 (488.6 million nights; +11.8%), far surpassed pre-pandemic levels (423.7 million nights in the first nine months of 2019; +28.9%).

The most popular regions for short-term rental accommodation booked via online platforms in the second quarter of 2023 were Andalusia in Spain (7.1 million nights), the Adriatic Coast in Croatia (6.5 million), and the French region of Île-de-France (5.8 million).

Among the top 20 regions, Spain boasted 7, followed by France and Italy with 5 each, 2 regions in Portugal, and 1 in Croatia.

The post Croatia Tops EU List for Online Holiday Accommodation Bookings appeared first on CorD Magazine.

A s soon as you step inside the library, you will be awestruck by its grandeur. With over seven million items in its collection, including books, manuscripts, maps, photographs and prints dating back to the 14th century, it’s no surprise that this library is considered one of the most important cultural institutions in Austria. Including rare and valuable works dating back to the Middle Ages, it is a treasure trove for scholars, researchers, and book lovers.

Established in 1368 by Duke Albrecht III, the Austrian National Library is also one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world. The old baroque library of the Habsburg empire is located in Hofburg Palace.

The library’s main building is the magnificent Palais Mollard-Clary, which was built in the 18th century by famous Baroque architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach. The interior is just as stunning as the exterior: visitors are awed by its grand staircase, ornate ceilings and frescoes, marble columns and statues. There are several reading rooms where visitors can study or browse through books on various topics, such as art history, musicology or law.

But what makes this library truly special is its commitment to preserving and promoting knowledge for generations to come. The Austrian National Library has embraced technology by digitising many of its collections so that people from all over the world can access them online.

AN ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL

The library is not only a repository of knowledge, but also a stunning architectural masterpiece. Its opulent interior, adorned with frescoes, gold leaf accents, and magnificent statues, transports visitors to a bygone era of grandeur and elegance.

A COLLECTION THAT TRANSCENDS BORDERS

The library’s vast collection covers diverse subject matters and spans various time periods. From medieval manuscripts to contemporary literature, from scientific treatises to musical scores, the Austrian National Library offers a comprehensive body of work that caters to every scholarly interest.

A ROYAL REPOSITORY

The Austrian National Library served as the royal library of the Habsburg monarchy. Emperors and archdukes amassed an impressive collection of books and manuscripts, many of which are still preserved within the library’s walls.

ACCESSIBLE TO ALL

The Austrian National Library is committed to providing access to its collection for everyone. Scholars, researchers, and curious visitors can explore its holdings and delve into the fascinating world of literature and history.

The Austrian National Library is a treasure trove of knowledge and history, housing an impressive collection of books, manuscripts and artefacts. Its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage and educational programmes make it a must-visit destination for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re marvelling at the intricate beauty of the State Hall, exploring the diverse collection of the Papyrus Museum, or immersing yourself in the digital world of the ONB labs, the Austrian National Library offers an unforgettable experience for all visitors. In This remarkable institution, centuries of knowledge and culture await.

The post A Symbol Of Austrian Identity appeared first on CorD Magazine.

Stretching along the western side of Austria, sandwiched between Bavaria and Italy, Tyrol is one of the country’s nine federal states. Bounded by Salzburgerland to the east and Voralberg to the west, the state covers much of the Eastern Alps and is divided into two parts: North Tyrol and East Tyrol. Home to rugged peaks, picturesque valleys and rolling mountain pastures, Tyrol is renowned for its skiing, snowboarding and après ski in winter. However, the region offers plenty of scope for outdoor adventure and relaxation in the warmer months, too, when travellers can enjoy a variety of hiking trails, traditional festivals, gastronomic offerings and rich culture, all wrapped up in genuinely warm Austrian hospitality.

Anyone with a love of the outdoors — including hikers, cyclists, walkers and climbers — will fall under the spell of Tyrol’s intoxicating mountain scenery

Anyone with a love of the outdoors — including hikers, cyclists, walkers and climbers — will fall under the spell of Tyrol’s intoxicating mountain scenery.

Yet, there’s something for everyone here: for those who love to seek out culture, there are plenty of experiences to get involved with in the historic old town and summer festivals of Innsbruck, the Tyrolean capital, while gastronomes should head to Kitzbühel to enjoy a variety of classic and modern cuisine, served in an array of settings ranging from mountain huts to traditional inns and fine dining restaurants.

Cyclists can enjoy more than 600 miles of marked road cycling trails, not to mention some 3,500 miles of mountain bike trails

Granite giants, roaring waterfalls and gorges, meandering rivers and mountain lakes — the most fascinating sights in Tyrol are all Mother Nature’s creations. But it’s the region’s sublime mountain scenery — such as the Kitzbühel Alps, Wilder Kaiser, Ötztal Alps, Zillertal Alps, the high valley of the Wildschönau, and the High Tauern (which includes the Grossglockner, the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps) — that attracts families and adventurers alike.

Visitors can enjoy fantastic hiking trails, from short, gentle day walks to extended mountain hikes, such as the 250-mile Eagle Trail, which traverses the whole of Tyrol. Cyclists can also enjoy more than 600 miles of marked road cycling trails, not to mention some 3,500 miles of mountain bike trails.

Granite giants, roaring waterfalls and gorges, meandering rivers and mountain lakes — the most fascinating sights in Tyrol are all Mother Nature’s creations

Innsbruck offers a city escape with a unique blend of urban fun and Alpine flair. From the charms of its historic old town to the opulence of the Imperial Palace, this is a destination not to be missed. Make sure you visit the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof), built around 500 years ago by the Emperor Maximilian I; the Hofkirche (Court Church) which houses Maximilian’s tomb; and the Hofgarten (Imperial Gardens). Beyond Innsbruck, you’ll want to explore some of the valleys, such as Zillertal, and quaint towns, including Kitzbühel, St Anton am Arlberg and St Johann. An excellent public transport network means Tyrol’s highlights and mountain areas are easily accessible by local bus.

Tyrol is a region with year-round appeal. If it’s world-class hiking you’re after, come in the summer, which begins in early June and runs through to late August. Wildflowers are at their most colourful in June and mountain huts are generally open between the end of May and October.

By Rudolf Abraham

The post Tyrol, Your Next Summer Getaway appeared first on CorD Magazine.

Switzerland is home to so much more than awe-inspiring mountains, such as Bern’s Unesco World Heritage- listed Old Town. Near Basel, the Fondation Beyeler is hailed as Switzerland’s greatest gallery with its collection of modern and tribal art. Modern architecture buffs can explore Le Corbusier’s colourful Zurich villa, while Lausanne’s Plateforme 10 has taken a whole district of the city and dedicated it exclusively to art.

Museums don’t get much better than the Swiss National Museum, its collections divided between a late 19th-century fairytale castle and a new Minimalist masterpiece of a building. And if Chillon castle near Montreux doesn’t bring out the inner medieval knight in shining armour, then try nurturing your inner Harry Potter instead at the extraordinary Abbey Library of St Gall.

CASTLE CHILLON, LAKE GENEVA REGION

He may have been mad, bad and dangerous to know, but Lord Byron helped put Chillon on the map with his epic Prisoner of Chillon poem, written in 1816 after he and Shelley took a boat out on to Lake Geneva before torrential rain led them to stop at this remarkable castle built on rock and overhanging the waters of the lake.

Set in the town of St Gallen, the Abbey is one of the world’s oldest working libraries, dating back to the 8th century, when the Abbey of St Gall first opened its doors

Dating from the 12th century, its 25 buildings and three courtyards encompass parade halls, 14th-century wall paintings, the subterranean vaults that inspired Byron, a bedroom preserved in its original form, and the Café Byron, its large bay windows overlooking the castle, a perfect spot for penning an immortal verse or two of your own.

THE OLD TOWN, BERN

Encircled by the Aare River, Bern’s old town dates back to the 12th century, and its 6km of medieval arcades and handsome 18th-century limestone buildings are perfect for a luxurious day of leisurely strolling. A Unesco World Heritage site since 1983, its renaissance fountain and stunning late gothic cathedral are highlights – you can climb the tower for magnificent views of Switzerland’s capital and the snow-capped Bernese Oberland beyond.

Don’t miss the 13th-century Zytgloggeturm tower and its 15th-century astronomical clock. And don’t be deterred by the fact that it was once a prison for fallen women “guilty of consorting with clerics”…

FONDATION BEYELER, BASEL

Art Basel is one of the world’s leading art fairs, but art lovers shouldn’t miss out on visiting Riehen, near Basel, to view Hildy and Ernst Beyeler’s world-class collection of tribal and modern art. Ernst was Europe’s leading post-war art dealer, and the Beyelers opened their museum in the grounds of the Villa Berower in 1997.

It is open every day of the year, with a calendar of shows including Rodin and Goya for 2021, and its permanent collection encompasses outstanding works by Picasso, Monet, Matisse and more, with plenty of activities, ranging from meditations in front of Monet to live music to walking tours, art breakfasts and workshops.

LE CORBUSIER, ZURICH

One of the most famous of modernist architects, Swiss native Le Corbusier’s colourful glassand- steel Pavilion overlooking Lake Zurich was his last great project, finished two years after his death, in 1967, and only recently renovated back to its original glory, and repopulated it with reproductions of his original tree-trunk furniture designs and giant light sculptures. It is a fascinating and unique building – Le Corbusier designed everything including the door knobs – and today it houses a range of exhibitions focusing on the architect’s life and work.

SWISS NATIONAL MUSEUM, ZURICH

Zurich keeps the flame of Swiss history and culture alight at its National Museum in the Old City District, set beside the River Limmat and the lovely, regenerated Park Platzspitz. The museum’s permanent collections and temporary exhibitions are divided between a late 19th-century French-style chateau and contemporary minimalist building beside it, the former exploring the country’s history from its earliest archaeology through major collections of gothic art, and the latter, opened in 2016, housing contemporary exhibitions.

PLATEFORME 10, LAUSANNE

Plateforme 10 is a visionary project that brings together the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts (MCBA), the Elysée Museum of Photography, the Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts (MUDAC), and two renowned art foundations.

Encompassing a whole district of Lausanne, near the railway station, visitors will be able to experience fine art, photography, design, textile arts, as well as auditoriums, dining spaces, artist residencies, boutiques and bookshops.

ABBEY LIBRARY OF ST GALL, ST GALLEN

Set in the town of St Gallen, the Abbey is one of the world’s oldest working libraries, dating back to the 8th century, when the Abbey of St Gall first opened its doors. A Unesco World Heritage Site, the lavishly elaborate rococo library you enter today dates from the 18th century and, with its magical atmosphere and stunning examples of artistry and craftsmanship on display all around you, this fantastical place makes for an awe-inspiring experience.

The post Must-Visit Cultural Destinations in Switzerland appeared first on CorD Magazine.

Just as Europe is justifiably dubbed one of the most fascinating continents and the unfulfilled dream of the peoples of North America, Asia and faraway Australia, so the countries of the former Yugoslavia – thanks to their natural beauty, historical attractions, hospitable locals, cultural contents and irresistible food – are considered top tourist destinations. The Croatian coast, and particularly its islands that are able not only to compete with the likes of Corfu, Santorini and Mykonos – representing the very pinnacle of the Greek tourism offer – but even surpass them in terms beauty, the stunning mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina that successfully rival the Italian Dolomites, while the Bay of Kotor, this gem of Montenegro that’s framed by the towering mountains of Lovćen and Orijen, is unrivalled anywhere around the world, never mind in European circles.

Meanwhile Serbia, despite being landlocked, is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination because of its spas and mountain resorts that have a great offer for all seasons, thanks to their cultural contents, numerous festivals like the famous Guča and Exit, rural tourism, the world-renowned nightlife of Belgrade and delicious food. An incredible gastronomic experienced is also offered by our neighbours from North Macedonia, who also have the majestic lakes of Ohrid, Dorjan and Prespa, as well as Slovenia, whose breathtaking mountain peaks, spas with healing waters and the Postojna Cave, which is unique around the world, leave no one feeling indifferent.

New roads and hotels entice guests

Every corner of this realm, which stretches across the entire territory of the former Yugoslavia, is unique and beautiful in its own right, thanks to which even the most demanding of world travellers can find something to feed their soul here. The most popular tourist destinations in Serbia for decades, among both domestic and foreign tourists, have included places like Sokobanja, Vrnjačka Banja, Zlatibor, Kopaonik, Stara planina and Fruška Gora. Thanks to huge investments in infrastructure projects, Serbia is today traversed by a network of new roads and highways that shorten journeys and make them safer.

It is today faster and easier than ever before to reach all mountain resorts that boast a rich offer not only during winter, but also in other seasons, as well as the country’s most popular spas, monasteries, water parks, cultural and historical monuments like Golubac Fortress and Lepenski vir. Over recent years, Serbia has been able to boast of ever-improving conditions for the development of cycling and nautical tourism, as well as ethno-villages that offer respite from the hustle and bustle of the city and a break from hectic modern life, while the country also boasts 17 wine routes that reveal the richness and diversity of Serbia’s historical and wine tradition, but also the ever-richer offer of Belgrade nightlife, while the city is also slowly becoming a top shopping destination.

An offer that includes much more than beautiful beaches and clean seas

If the essence of tourism can be boiled down to aromas, flavours, touches, sounds, pictures, memories and reminiscences, it is no wonder that Croatia is among Europe’s most beautiful and most popular tourist destinations. A seaside summer holiday in Croatia is something that’s never forgotten and is remembered for the unique blend of the scents of the sea and pine trees, the sounds of chanting crickets and breaking waves. Each Croatian island represents a unique gem of the Adriatic, a fusion of fairytale nature, rich culture and sumptuous gastronomy, and one of its “musts” is Dubrovnik, which ranks among the world’s most beautiful cities and is a fashionable resort with streets that are happily strolled by tourists arriving from all over the world. For the most discerning guests who settle only for the best, Croatia has ample luxury hotels, marinas and restaurants, but also unique tourist complexes located off the beaten track.

“Wild beauty” is the tourism slogan that’s used to described the charms Montenegro, which is one of Europe’s youngest countries and is rightly said to be too small to possess such a wealth of natural beauty. Despite being home to the unique Bay of Kotor, which ranks among the world’s most beautiful places, the boundless beach of Ada Bojana, and the Budva Riviera that entices tourists from all over the world, Montenegro is much more than a beautiful coastline. The stunningly beautiful alternative side of Montenegro differs completely from lounging on a beach and comprises enchanting landscapes, rivers and mountains, canyons and glacial lakes. That’s why Montenegrins correctly note that their guests can bathe in the beautiful blue Adriatic in the morning, then spend the afternoon hiking through mountains with peaks that remain covered in snow throughout the year, try their hand at whitewater rafting or canyoning, navigating the narrow Nevidio Canyon…

Offer tailored to suit the most varied tourists

The region’s most famous tourist destinations undoubtedly includes the charms of Bosnia-Herzegovina, a land of incredible nature and numerous cultural and historical monuments. Thanks to the beauty of its national parks and mountains, and the cultural heritage of its cities representing a unique fusion of the cultures of East and West, Bosnia-Herzegovina is the perfect choice for all types of holiday – from short weekend breaks to full summer holidays and winter getaways at its ski resorts. Apart from the famous mountains of Jahorina, Bjelašnica and Igman, tourists coming from surrounding countries, but also from distant lands, show greatest interest in its larger cities that can boast of their own specific contents and attractions. Among the gems of its tourist offer are certainly Sarajevo, representing the perfect blend of oriental and European lifestyles, the spirit of bygone times and modern trends, Neum, a small town on the Adriatic coast, Mostar, with its incredible architecture, Trebinje and Višegrad.

Although its Adriatic coastline covers an area of just 45 kilometres, Slovenia can boast of its loyal guests, who year after year spend their summer holidays in Koper, Portorož and Piran. Nevertheless, the beating heart of this alpine country’s tourism sector is represented by its mountain resorts, the region’s best wellness centres and spa facilities, and the world-famous Postojna Cave.

With winter resorts like Kranjska Gora and Maribor Pohorje, Slovenia has for years been known as an outstanding ski destination that proves equally attractive to young people, families with children and experienced skiers seeking good runs, while it is also considered as being among the destinations with the best thermal spas, unforgettable wine routes, hiking trails and top gastronomic specialities and delicacies.

Predjama is one of the most extraordinary castles in the world, built in the mouth of a cave complex at the end of a valley in southwest Slovenia. Set halfway up a 400-foot (123-meter) vertical cliff face, it appears in records from 1202 and is listed by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest cave castle.

At the other end of our former country is North Macedonia, which is so named despite being in the extreme south of the lands of Yugoslavia. This is a country that has begun working more intensively to develop and promote its tourism potential after several decades of stagnation. Here tourists are most interested in cultural, religious and rural tourism, but also Macedonian gastronomy and domestic wineries, and particularly the majestic lakes of Ohrid, Prespa and Dojran. Over the previous few years that have seen young people from Western Europe start getting to know North Macedonia, there has been an increasing need to develop options for active, adventure and adrenaline-driven tourism, with the country boasting outstanding natural conditions to develop these types of tourism, such as mountain trails ranging from gentle to steep, rivers ranging from calm to turbulent, flat plains and high cliffs etc.

The greatest development is yet to come in the years ahead

Despite it having not been part of the former shared country, we shouldn’t forget Albania, which is becoming increasingly interesting as a tourist destination in the region. Guests from Serbia and other parts of the former Yugoslavia, but also from other parts of Europe, primarily opt to spend their summer holidays in tourist centres on the Adriatic and Ionian seas, which have seen more than 150 of the most modern hotels spring up in recent years. For those who aren’t satisfied with merely lounging on the beaches of Durrës, Sarandë or Vlorë, locals will offer tours of Tirana or Berat, a city that best depicts the history of Albania, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a veritable “open-air museum”.

The post The Natural Wealth That We Share appeared first on CorD Magazine.