In light of these incredible developments, Croatia+ by Travelive has decided to provide you with exclusive coverage of its top stories. So, without further ado, let’s see what Croatia has been up to!

New United Airlines Route Brings Croatia Closer

Kicking off the highlights, we have some soaring news for those looking to discover Croatia in the most direct way possible.

This year saw United Airlines reveal a game-changing milestone: the first-ever direct flight between Split and the United States. Starting 30 April 2026, travelers will enjoy three weekly flights linking Newark (New York) and Split aboard a Boeing 767-300ER, making this the first wide-body jet to enter regular service at Split Airport.

This long-awaited route significantly boosts Croatia’s North American connectivity and injects fresh momentum into the country’s fast-growing luxury travel scene, making its treasures more convenient for your clients than ever!

Grand Park Hotel Rovinj Sets New Standard for Croatian Hospitality

Nestled on the sun-drenched coast of Istria, Rovinj has long been celebrated for its cobbled alleys, pastel façades and Adriatic charm. Now, that can also include luxury hospitality, with the Grand Park Hotel Rovinj making headlines in 2025 by becoming the first and only Croatian hotel to be included in the prestigious ‘The World’s 50 Best Hotels’ list; an accolade compiled from the votes of 800+ hospitality experts worldwide.

Part of the esteemed Maistra Hospitality Group, Grand Park bolsters Istria’s rising status as a global luxury destination, providing discerning travelers with refined design, exceptional service, and unrivaled Mediterranean views. Tomislav Popović, President of Maistra, says the award reflects “years of dedication to excellence and outstanding service”.

Istria Shines Again on the Global Stage

On a similar note, Istria continues its awards streak with another standout achievement, this time from the heart of its celebrated wine country.

Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery has been ranked 17th in the “Rest of Europe” category in the Condé Nast Traveller UK Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, making it the only Croatian property to earn a place on this year’s list. Scoring an impressive 95.05/100 from more than 182,500 UK voters, Meneghetti was praised for its quiet luxury, deeply rooted authenticity, and its enchanting setting among vineyards and olive groves.

The recognition underscores the hotel’s dedication to crafted, heartfelt hospitality, and further cements Istria’s growing prestige in Europe’s luxury travel landscape.

Villa Dubrovnik — An Adriatic Legend Reborn

In other hotel news, one of the Adriatic’s most iconic hideaways has reemerged in spectacular fashion. After a two-year, multi-million-euro transformation, Villa Dubrovnik has officially reopened, instantly reclaiming its place as one of Croatia’s most coveted boutique escapes.

Perched above the crystalline Dalmatian coast and a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the property now showcases a striking redesign by Brazil’s acclaimed Studio Arthur Casas, inspired by Dubrovnik’s timeless landscape and stone-built heritage.

Featuring 56 rooms, suites, and residences, alongside the Michelin-recommended Restaurant Pjerin, the renewed Villa Dubrovnik has been hailed as one of the Adriatic’s most exciting hospitality moments of the year!

Dubrovnik Named the World’s Leading Sustainable Destination 2025

We’re closing out our report with some amazing news for those green at heart. Croatia’s crown-jewel city, Dubrovnik, has been officially named the World’s Leading Sustainable Destination 2025 at the prestigious World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards.

The honor, presented before global leaders in Dubai, recognizes destinations setting the standard for net-positive tourism. At the core of Dubrovnik’s achievement is its groundbreaking “Respect the City” initiative, a forward-thinking program that has reshaped how the city manages visitors, protects its UNESCO-listed Old Town, and enhances residents’ quality of life.

With sustainable travel on the rise, this recognition positions Croatia as a top choice for those eager to explore lavishly yet responsibly.

Signing Off from the Adriatic

From bold new openings to global accolades, the Adriatic has certainly given us plenty to talk about, and even more to anticipate.

As the country’s star continues to rise, so does the promise of extraordinary experiences awaiting discerning travelers. And whenever inspiration strikes, Croatia+ by Travelive will be ready to bring them to your clients through curated journeys that may just have them making a few travel headlines of their own.

This has been Croatia+ by Travelive, your window into the Adriatic’s finest moments. Until next time.

The post Croatia Update 2025: A Landmark Year for the Adriatic’s Star Destination appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Revel in the majestic beauty and sumptuous hospitality of Switzerland with an exquisite getaway that pairs breathtaking Swiss adventures with some of the destination’s most luxurious accommodations. Indulge in the alluring comforts of the Kempinski Palace in Engelberg as you discover exciting ventures atop Mount Titlis, then become inspired with a lakefront stay at the Mandarin Oriental Palace on Lake Lucerne, where Mt. Pilatus and unique Alpine experiences await. From soaring over glaciers and savoring fondue in snow igloos, to sampling authentic Swiss cheese at local farms, this itinerary will take you from lakes to mountains and beyond!

• Arrival in Zurich
• 3 nights in Engelberg at Kempinski Palace
• 4 nights in Lucerne at Mandarin Oriental Palace
• Day Trip to Mt. Titlis with Ice Flyer Experience
• Guided Ski Experience in Brunni and/or Gerschnialp (Winter) or Guided Hike around the Trubsee (Summer)
• Lucerne Sightseeing Tour with Boat Experience on Lake Lucerne
• Day Trip to Mt. Pilatus (in Summer: with Golden Round Trip Experience)
• Ice Fishing in the Alps with Igloo Fondue (Winter) or Farm Tours & Cheese Tasting Experience (Summer)
• Private Transfers
• Departure from Zurich

Day 1 – Arrival in Zurich and Transfer to Kempinski Palace

Welcome to Switzerland! Upon arriving at Zurich airport, a private driver will be waiting to transfer you to the Kempinski Palace, a stunning 5-star property where nature’s raw beauty meets timeless elegance in the Alpine heart of Engelberg. Upon checking in, enjoy the warm atmosphere and Belle Époque charm of the resort as you unwind in the century-old ambiance of The Palace Bar, bask in serene mountain views through the panoramic windows at the Rooftop Spa, or indulge in French culinary delights at the Cattani Restaurant.

Day 2 – Mt. Titlis Experience with Ice Flyer

Today, you will begin your discovery of Switzerland’s mountainous wonders with an exhilarating day trip to Mount Titlis, one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps! On a journey that blends cutting edge technology with nature’s inherent splendor, a state-of-the-art Rotair Cable Car (the first-ever revolving Swiss cable car) will take you to breathtaking heights of over 10,000 ft! Following your scenic ascend, you will enjoy a thrilling stroll on the Titlis Cliff Walk, visit the unique Glacier Cave, and glide above the glacier’s icy expanse on the Ice Flyer chairlift, witnessing Swiss Alpine beauty in truly unimaginable ways.

Day 3 – Skiing or Hiking Experience

During winter, this day will see you embark on an invigorating day of skiing at the renowned Titlis Ski Area, where you will discover the stately peaks of Brunnistock or Gierschalp. Regardless of your experience, your seasoned instructor will customize the perfect day of skiing for you and your travel party, providing all necessities and ensuring a fun day of tackling those pristine slopes.

If travelling in summer, you will meet your guide and take the Titlis Xpress cable car to the Trubsee station, where an experienced hiking guide will accompany you on a picturesque 4.66-mile hike around one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland. Before heading back, enjoy a delicious Alpine meal, which will be served in a traditional stubli overlooking the lake.

Day 4 – Transfer to Mandarin Oriental Palace

After breakfast, your private driver will meet you at the hotel for your scenic transfer to Lake Lucerne, where you will check-in at the majestic Mandarin Oriental Palace in Lucerne. Gracing the shores of the town’s eponymous lake, the Belle Époque elegance of this extravagant 5-star property perfectly complements the tranquil waters and striking Swiss landscapes that it overlooks. Upon checking-in, enjoy the rest of your day exploring the town’s captivating streets, indulging in some exclusive relaxation at the hotel’s SPA Bellefontaine, or sampling some modern French or Japanese cuisine at one of its fine-dining restaurants.

Day 5 – Lucerne Sightseeing Tour with Boat Experience on Lake Lucerne

Following a scrumptious breakfast, you will join your experienced guide for a private walking tour of Lucerne, a charming town steeped in medieval history and Swiss tradition. Begin by crossing the iconic Chapel Bridge, taking in the 17th-century artwork and the historic Water Tower. Stroll through the picturesque Old Town, embracing its storied charms and quaint architecture, before visiting the moving Dying Lion monument, a tribute to Swiss soldiers’ courage during the French Revolution. Conclude your adventure with a private boating experience on Lake Lucerne, soaking up this destination’s enchanting allure through marvelous sights of the city and the surrounding landscapes.

Day 6 – Day Trip to Mt. Pilatus

Today, you will meet your driver and guide and embark on a day trip to Mt. Pilatus, a peak tailor-made for thrill-seekers and lovers of scenic adventures. Experience the sensation of flying by boarding the aerial Dragon Ride cable car and rejoicing in spectacular views as you ascend from Fräkmüntegg to the breathtaking apex. Once on top, enjoy a wide range of seasonal activities in the likes of toboggan runs, snowshoeing, sledging, an ibex safari or a visit to the Dragon World Museum. Head back down by taking a ride on the steepest cogwheel railway in the world, capping off your day with some more excitement!

Day 7 – Ice Fishing or Farm Tours

Winter adventurers will start this special day with a scenic ride from Lucerne to Erlenbach im Simmenthal, before boarding a gondola to the Chindri mid-station at Mt. Stockhorn, the entrance to the Bernese Oberland. There, you will meet your guide for an unforgettable ice fishing experience on frozen lakes, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. Afterward, enjoy the warmth of a traditional Swiss fondue in a snow igloo before returning to Lucerne.

If travelling in summer, you will meet your guide and embark on a unique countryside experience in the lovely setting surrounding Lake Lucerne. Take a scenic funicular ride to Sonnenberg for breathtaking views, then enjoy a two-hour walk through lush meadows and traditional Swiss hamlets. Along the way, hear tales of the region’s heritage and sample Swiss cheese at a local farm for a deliciously immersive experience.

Day 8 – Departure from Zurich

With all those Swiss lakes and mountains covered, it’s time to head back home. After breakfast, your driver will pick you up from the Mandarin Oriental Palace in Lucerne and transfer you to Zurich airport for your flight back home.

The post From Lake to Mountain: Mandarin & Kempinski Swiss Experience appeared first on Blog | Travelive.