Croatia is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination, with the Croatian National Tourist Board [CNTO] reporting a 25% rise in visitors from January 2013 to July 2013 compared to the same period in 2012.

With this year’s Travel Convention taking place in Dubrovnik, ABTA and the Croatian National Tourist Office are urging the 600 Convention delegates to use the opportunity to explore other regions of the country. There is no doubt that Dubrovnik is something special with its old town, beautiful Franciscan Monastery, designer shops, cafés and restaurants and the view over the terracotta-topped houses from the new cable car, but within easy reach are some beautiful islands, countryside and towns.

Moving north from Dubrovnik, Croatia’s famous coastline is dotted with over 1,244 idyllic islands. The weather in October is often warm with the sea still warm enough for swimming. Nearest to Dubrovnik with good ferry connections are the beautiful islands of Korcula and Hvar. Both of which have become favorite haunts for the rich and famous. Delegates can then continue up the coast to Split with its stunning Roman buildings, cool nightlife and great restaurants.

Delegates with a bit more time should continue up the coast to the heart-shaped peninsula of Istria to sample its outstanding local produce, including delicious wine, olive oil and white truffles. Istria also contains one of Croatia’s most beautiful cities, Rovign, which rivals Dubrovnik for attractiveness.

Outdoor enthusiasts should head inland to the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park, where 16 lakes are interconnected by a series of waterfalls and with opportunities for hiking, rafting and canoeing. There are also incredible hiking and rock-climbing opportunities in the Paklenica National Park, which is midway between Split and Istria.

Mark Tanzer ABTA Chief Executive said “Croatia is a stunning country and after three days in Dubrovnik at the Travel Convention many delegates will want to see what else the country has to offer. I am sure that if they do have the opportunity to explore after the Travel Convention delegates will find a country rich in culture and natural beauty and one they will almost certainly revisit.”