Across Europe there are certain pockets known for partying, whether it’s nightlife-fuelled cities like Amsterdam and Berlin, stretches of beach-party ready coast like Málaga or Verónicas Strip in Tenerife, or entire islands like Ibiza and Mykonos.
But one destination is looking to shed its party rep and encourage more family-friendly tourism.
According to local media, the council of Hvar, a town on the eponymous Croatian island, has just held a secret vote in which the decision was made to keep current noise restrictions in place – even throughout the summer season. The noise cap is 85 decibels, the equivalent to a noisy restaurant.
‘In previous years, open-air clubs in Hvar and Split may have encouraged excessive partying among guests and contributed to a ‘party destination’ image in Croatian tourism,’ said Darijo Šarić, CEO of luxury villa rental site VIP Holiday Booker, according to euronews. ‘However, Croatia has increasingly built a reputation for being a family-friendly destination, offering cultural richness, natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere.’
The noise cap has frustrated those in the nightclub and hospitality business, particularly those who host events such as parties and outdoor weddings on the Pakleni islands, which are nearby.
Vicko Visković from the hospitality association Dictum Factum told Dnevnik.hr that the move ‘is a disaster. We have always supported stricter rules and better monitoring, but now we are going from one extreme to another. This is not the right approach.’
There were even reports of lobbying for the island to become a year-round entertainment destination, but while lots of businesses appreciate the need for at least some regulation, there are concerns about what this will do to the island’s tourism industry.
Here’s our comprehensive guide to all the best destinations in Croatia, and the best things to do.
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