The city of Dubrovnik boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture and is a beacon for global travellers, earning its reputation as a premier tourist destination.
But whilst the influx of visitors, which according to recent surveys averages 36 tourists per local inhabitant, is a huge boost for the tourism industry, it is also driving up living costs for local people. The elderly custodians of the city's heritage, along with young artisans and artists, are bearing the brunt of this economic shift and finding it increasingly difficult to afford rent and living expenses on fixed incomes and constrained budgets.
TUI Colourful Cultures Croatia offers a sustainable solution to this challenge - the festivals of Arts & Crafts in the Lazareti, a group of mediaeval buildings close to the city walls.
A series of cultural events will take place which will rejuvenate and harness the city's traditional skills, providing a platform for creatives to showcase their talents and boost their income. By combining their artistry with the demands of Dubrovnik's tourism market, the project will create a symbiosis whereby cultural preservation fuels economic stability.
The project commits to bolstering the socio-economic fabric of Dubrovnik, enriching the tourist experience, and safeguarding the future of traditional arts and crafts.
