Novalja Simply the Best award for innovation, creativity, quality and improvement of tourist offer

As part of the PUT Tourism Exchange, hosted in 2025 by the Međimurje County Tourist Board and gathering over 200 participants from seven countries, the annual awards of the Croatian Travel Agencies Association and the PUT Exchange were presented on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at a special ceremony held at the Terme Sveti Martin Hotel.

The Simply the Best award, continuously presented since 2010 for innovation, creativity, quality, and enhancement of the tourist offer, was received by 98 individuals and companies from the tourism sector.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, a special recognition from the Croatian Travel Agencies Association and the PUT Exchange for 25 years of contribution to the development of the exchange was awarded to its visionary founder, Borislav Šimenc.

The city of Novalja was honored on this occasion in the category for the Croatian islands. The award was granted for an innovative and creative approach to the continuous development of new and enhancement of existing cultural, entertainment, sports, and gastronomic tourist offerings, which have enriched the local tourism sector. Novalja has thus positioned itself as one of the most popular island destinations in Croatia. The award was presented to Director Marina Šćiran.

Additionally, Konoba Težak in Metajna won an award in the category for establishments offering traditional cuisine. The award was accepted by the owner, Marin Datković.