While the high season is showing positive results, the operators of the four local municipalities are counting on new brochures and videos

In Maresego, representatives of the tourism sector of the four Istrian municipalities in Slovenian territory met and expressed full satisfaction with the progress of the summer season. At the press conference, the collaboration that unites the four locations under the “Love Istria” brand was highlighted and a new brochure and video content were presented. Further uniting the local authorities is the project “Gastronomic treasures of Istria and the sea – Maristra”, which will be presented at the Dubai Expo. In the first half of the year, in the Municipality of Piran, which accounts for approximately half of all accommodation capacities in the coastal strip, tourists generated 244 thousand overnight stays, which is 5,5 percent more than in the same period in 2020 but still 66 percent less than the previous year. In June alone, there were 170.330 overnight stays, which is 59% more than last year but 24% less than in 2019. The presence of national guests was 72% even if in July the number of foreign holidaymakers increased, so much so that they are now about half. Up to July 18, approximately 91.000 overnight stays were recorded in hotels, 13% more than last year and only 7% less than in 2019. Insiders estimate that the accommodation capacities in Piran are well occupied and should remain so at least until the end of August. If the situation allows, the season will certainly be extended into autumn. Even in Izola, domestic guests prevailed, but now the difference between domestic and foreign tourists is even greater. Accommodation facilities are recording comparable numbers to last year and most are booked until autumn. Koper also recorded just under 18.000 arrivals and over 51.000 overnight stays in the first half of the year, which represents 49% more stays than in the same period in 2021. In June this year, the numbers even exceeded those of the same month in 2019 by 7% of arrivals and almost 13% of overnight stays. Good results are also expected for the coming months, as there is a great demand for accommodation. The Tourist Information Centre in Ankaran has an extremely high demand for accommodation, both private and hotel. These are mostly Slovenian families and pensioners, who are looking for the opportunity to also use the new tourist vouchers. They expect occupancy to be very good throughout the summer and that numbers will be at last year's level. The main destinations of the Slovenian coast have been successfully cooperating under the “Love Istria” brand for several years. The catalogue is almost ready, presenting the territory in a complete way with its specialities, curiosities, natural and cultural beauties, activities, experiences and gastronomy. Promotional video content has also been created in collaboration with Kleva Films, showcasing city centers, locals and authentic experiences for even the most demanding guests. “The video content will be used for joint promotion, which we are successfully carrying out this year through digital channels, as well as for promotion at trade fairs in Slovenia and abroad. The next event is participation in the Dubai Expo from January 30 to February 23, 2022, where coastal tourist destinations will be presented together with the Karst, the Gorizia Hills and the Vipava Valley,” tourism representatives noted at the press conference.

Source: The Voice of the People – 25/07/2021