Although other indicators, such as tourist spending, should also be taken into account in assessing the tourist season, the planned annual physical increase of tourism of 2-3 percent was exceeded in the first eight months, said Franco Palma, head of the HUH presidency and executive committee.
Palma added that in a month or two it would be possible to give a more precise assessment of the season after data on the financial transactions of hotels and other tourist companies were submitted. Palma said he did not expect financial results to be less good than last year, but added that they would give a more concrete picture of the profitability of Croatia's tourism.
This year's results represent a good trend and they are an advantage that should be used, in promotion, development of new products and preparation of all types of distribution and sales channels, Palma said.
HUH representatives said this year's successful tourist season was the result of good preparations at all levels. Investment in new products, roads and other types of tourist infrastructure have started to yield results, guests are satisfied with the new level of quality and there is a growing number of wealthier tourists, they said.