FROM VIENNA TO ŠIPOVO: DRAGAN INVESTED IN A HOTEL AT THE CONFLUENCE OF THE PLIVA AND JANJ RIVERS

After spending 35 years in Vienna, Dragan Krndija returned with his wife to his hometown of Šipovo, where he purchased a neglected hotel and invested significant resources in its renovation, transforming it into a modern tourist facility and an example of how knowledge, experience and capital gained abroad can be invested in the development of Republika Srpska.

PHOTO: Ustupljena fotografija

PHOTO: Ustupljena fotografija

Krndija says that the decision to return was a natural one because he wanted to create and contribute in his hometown.

“The hotel is located at the confluence of the Pliva and Janj rivers. We renovated it, and we plan to build swimming pools, sports facilities, a small zoo and an outdoor gym. The hotel has 50 rooms and 12 apartments, with a capacity of around 150 guests. We currently employ 17 people and plan to double that number,” said Krndija.

He called on people from the diaspora to consider returning.

“There are opportunities here, and people can live well. Those who are willing to work can earn a living and build a future. I believe we can create our future right here,” Krndija said.

NEW INVESTMENT STRENGTHENS ŠIPOVO'S TOURISM OFFER

Located at the meeting point of two rivers, the hotel is already attracting visitors, while planned additional investments are expected to further expand the tourist offer of this area.

Šipovo has recorded growth in tourism in recent years, and during the “Days of Šipovo” event, the town welcomes several thousand visitors. New facilities and increased accommodation capacity will further contribute to tourism development and the creation of new jobs.

MINIĆ: THE GOVERNMENT WILL SUPPORT PROJECTS LIKE THIS

The Prime Minister of Republika Srpska, Savo Minić, said that Krndija’s return and investment in his hometown represent an example that deserves institutional support.

“This is one of the brightest examples I have seen in Republika Srpska. The first Government activities related to seminars and congress tourism will be organized here. This place deserves everyone’s attention,” Minić said.

He announced that the Government of Republika Srpska will support further development of the complex, including projects related to riverbank improvements and the development of tourism infrastructure.

“These projects will be supported through regular and special measures aimed at tourism development. We are grateful to people who, after decades spent abroad, decided to invest their savings in their homeland. Such examples show how important it is to believe in Republika Srpska and invest in its development,” Minić said.