TOURISM VOUCHERS RETURN FOR LOCAL TRAVELERS IN REPUBLIKA SRPSKA

Starting September 1st, residents of Republika Srpska will once again be able to enjoy the benefits of tourism vouchers worth 100 BAM. These vouchers, aimed at boosting domestic tourism, will be valid through the end of November and can be used at a wide range of mountain resorts, spas, and other local destinations.

PHOTO: Glas Srpske

The Government of Republika Srpska has implemented this voucher program several times in the past, with the primary goal of stimulating local tourism during the pre-season and post-season periods. The results have been overwhelmingly positive, with a steady increase in both visitor numbers and overnight stays. A record number of hotels, motels, and other accommodation providers across the region have joined the initiative.

Denis Šulić, Minister of Trade and Tourism of Republika Srpska, told Glas Srpske that the program already showed strong results back in June, when over 2,500 vouchers were used.

"We recorded a more than 20 percent increase in arrivals and overnight stays compared to the same month last year," said Šulić. "Thanks to this initiative, supported in collaboration with President Milorad Dodik, we’re confident that we will extend the summer season into September and fill the gaps in occupancy between October and mid-November, before the start of the winter season."

Šulić also expressed optimism that the vouchers will attract visitors even earlier in the winter pre-season, starting from November 15, when the first snowfalls are expected.

"I believe this will encourage people to come for early skiing. Just like in June, we expect the vouchers to deliver great results. The indicators are on our side—we’re seeing constant growth in both foreign and domestic tourist numbers," Šulić emphasized.

Nearly 60 hotels and motels are currently involved in the program, which is the highest participation rate since the vouchers were first introduced.

"A budget of 2 million BAM has been allocated for this round. We also have a commitment from the President that if demand exceeds expectations, additional funds will be provided. To qualify for a voucher, citizens must book at least two nights with breakfast. Only one voucher is allowed per person," Šulić explained.

He also announced that by the end of the year, a central information system will be completed, enabling better tracking of overnight stays in private accommodations.

"That’s currently our biggest grey area, but with the new system, we’ll be able to regulate it more effectively," said Šulić.

Additionally, starting in September, the government will introduce a new incentive program for travel agencies that bring foreign tourists to Srpska.

"Agencies that bring foreign visitors who stay at least two nights will receive an incentive of 70 BAM per person. Our goal is to encourage agencies to include Republika Srpska in their offers and thereby increase the number of international guests," Šulić added.

Hotels are already preparing for increased demand. Hotel "Pirg" in the Stanišići ethno village in Bijeljina is currently taking reservations for the next three months. Front desk supervisor Ankica Đuderija confirmed strong interest from guests.

"People are calling and emailing, clearly stating they want to use the vouchers. The requirement is a minimum of two nights. For couples who want to use two vouchers, they need to stay at least three nights. For example, three nights for two people with breakfast cost 570 BAM. With two vouchers deducted (200 BAM), guests pay only 370 BAM," Đuderija explained.

Aparthotel "Vučko" on Jahorina is also expecting an influx of guests.

"If early signs are anything to go by, it’s going to be busy. When guests contact us for reservations, we remind them about the voucher option if they haven’t already asked. We offer a variety of packages to suit all types of travelers, so the total cost depends on the package selected," hotel representatives stated.

At Hotel "Palas" in Banja Luka, head receptionist Marijana Rejinović confirmed that they’ve participated in every round of the voucher program so far.

"As September approaches, we expect a rise in booking inquiries. There is already some interest, but we anticipate it will increase significantly in the coming weeks," Rejinović said.