The Croatian branch of the International Federation of Journalists and Travel Writers (FIJET) recently honored domestic and international travel writers with the annual "Marco Polo" awards for their remarkable travel reports and narratives. Among the recipients, Luxury Living Croatia was recognized for its significant contribution to positioning Croatia as a luxurious destination. Antoaneta Šimunović, the director of Luxury Living Croatia, graciously accepted the award at the event held in Zagreb, in Hotel Esplanade.

Luxury Living Croatia received this award faster than any other publication, securing it within only a year of its launch. We are the only ones bringing the beauty of Croatia - its natural and luxurious side - to one place, one portal, and that is Luxury Living Croatia. With just a few clicks, our readers unlock an entire Croatian odyssey, redefining the art of exploration. From thrilling adventures to awe-inspiring natural wonders, from exclusive lavish accommodations to unmatched escapades, our magazine paints a vivid picture. Croatia isn't just competing; it's dominating the luxury landscape, offering an ineffable, larger-than-life experience that leaves an unparalleled impression unlike any other destination worldwide. Croatia itself is a luxury.

Upon receiving the award, Antoaneta Šimunović expressed her gratitude, stating, "We are incredibly honored to receive the Marco Polo award, which acknowledges our commitment to showcasing Croatia as a luxury destination. This recognition motivates us to continue promoting the beauty and elegance of Croatia through our platform."

The "Marco Polo 2023" awards, also known as the Grand Prix awards, were bestowed upon remarkable individuals for their outstanding contributions. Vesna Jurić Rukavina received recognition for her exceptional contributions to tourism journalism through her series of reports on Croatia aired on Croatian Radio - Radio Sljeme's program "Prstom po globusu." Additionally, Sisi Munz was acknowledged for her exceptional reportage on Egypt, which hosted the FIJET Congress in 2022.

Another notable awardee was Željko Marušić, who received the "FIJET Tolerance" award for promoting tolerance, intercultural dialogue, and understanding diversity through discussions on his show "Željko Marušić i gosti" on OTV.

The event also recognized several other outstanding contributors, including authors of documentary series, journalists, filmmakers, and individuals who have significantly enriched Croatian culture and tourism through their remarkable work.

Tina Eterović Čubrilo, the president of the Croatian branch of FIJET, highlighted the international significance of the "Marco Polo" award in promoting Croatia and its diverse tourism offerings. She emphasized its role in popularizing travel literature, reports, and similar journalistic genres.

According to HND Eterović Čubrilo remarked, "The 'Marco Polo' project and awards, alongside the congress, hold paramount importance within the global FIJET. Since 2020, it has also included an award for promoting tolerance. Through the name of Marco Polo, we are reminded of the importance of travel, discovering new worlds, and embracing the diversity of life and work, even within Croatia. This promotes the elements of its historical, cultural, material, and intangible heritage, unexplored regions, and tourist products."

She also noted that these awards were proposed by the Croatian branch in 2006 and are presented annually in December to commemorate the establishment of the global FIJET on December 2, 1954. Even during the pandemic, the awards ceremony persisted virtually. Recipients, who are members of FIJET, also have the opportunity to visit and report on the island and city of Korčula, renowned for Marco Polo's stay, further emphasizing the historical connections of the awards.