QUARTERLY TOURISM REVIEW FOR REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA

The latest official statistics for the first quarter of this year show that 91,522 tourists visited Republic of Srpska, resulting in 250,280 overnight stays.

PHOTO: Vladimir Tadić / Svjetlopis

The number of tourists and overnight stays in Republic of Srpska remains roughly the same as last year. The Tourism Organization of RS reports satisfaction with the spring season.

When comparing these figures with the previous year, the differences in both tourist arrivals and overnight stays are minimal, according to Marko Radić, Head of the Tourism Promotion Sector at the Tourism Organization of RS.

WEAKER WINTER SEASON

Despite favorable technical conditions, especially on Jahorina, a lack of snow resulted in a weaker winter season than expected. Consequently, tourist visits were lower than anticipated. Mountain destinations accounted for 16% of tourist arrivals, while "other tourist spots" saw 58%, and spa destinations accounted for 15%, where tourists generally stayed the longest.

SPRING SEASON SATISFACTION

Radić expresses satisfaction with the spring segment of the season, especially with May activities, as they await the start of the summer season and official statistical confirmation.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Radić highlights several upcoming events likely to attract more tourists. The World Rafting Championship will be held on the Vrbas River from May 27 to June 2. The opening of the summer tourist season in Trebinje will feature a new event, the 'Wine Fine' wine fair (May 24-25), hosting around 40 wineries. Additionally, the Banja Luka Carnival (May 24-26) will gather over 20 carnival groups from the region.

PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Throughout the year, the Tourism Organization of RS showcased its tourism offerings at major European tourism fairs in Berlin, Budapest, and Vienna, as well as regional fairs in Belgrade, Zagreb, and Ljubljana, and local fairs in Lukavac, Sarajevo, Bijeljina, and Banja Luka.

Radić also highlights a collaboration with the RS Tourism Organization, the HoReCa employers' association, and the relevant ministry to promote tourism-related careers, aiming to encourage future high school students.

"We are working to inspire students to enroll in Agricultural School with a focus on agrotourism technicians, providing full support throughout their education," concludes Radić.