slovenia tourism floods

Record floods 'worst natural disaster' in Slovenia in over 30 years: PM

Ljubljana (AFP) – Clean-up operations in Slovenia were in full flow Saturday after torrential rains and severe floods brought havoc to the Alpine country in its worst natural disaster since independence, officials said.

Issued on: 05/08/2023 - 16:48 Modified: 05/08/2023 - 16:46

As heavy rainfall started to ease, with the weather situation gradually normalising, the extent of the damage caused by the devastating floods was being assessed.

"This is the worst natural disaster in Slovenia's (recent) history, it has affected two thirds of the country," Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob said after Saturday's National Security council meeting.

The scale of the damage from the floods is estimated to exceed half a billion euros, Golob said.

Flash floods and landslides caused by heavy rainfall that started Thursday had submerged large swaths of central and northern Slovenia, cutting off access to villages and disrupting traffic.

So far at least three people -- two Dutch citizens and a Slovenian -- have died, Slovenian news agency STA reported, with authorities retrieving a man's body on the outskirts of Ljubljana on the banks of the Sava river Saturday.

"According to initial information, his death might have been caused by the floods," STA quoted a police statement as saying.

The Krsko nuclear power plant next to the swelling Sava river terminated the notice of "unusual event" declared late Friday, after the river's level had lowered again.

The town of Crna na Koroskem, some 100 kilometres north of the capital, was one the worst-hit and remained cut off, as aid and assistance had to be air-lifted by army helicopters.

Closer to the capital in the town of Kamnik, where a Slovenian woman had reportedly died in the floods, many roads were still closed, with several areas cut off.

In the nearby village of Menges, severely flooded on Friday, rescue workers and residents were busy with cleaning up.

"First we heard a siren, then another, and then it was like a tsunami," a man in his 50s standing in front of his damaged house told AFP.

"Water just poured in through the kitchen rapidly... our only solution was to take the children to the upper floor and wait to be rescued," Mateja Hribar Ziherl, head of the flooded local kindergarten told AFP.

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In Pictures

Slovenia suffers its worst-ever floods

Devastating floods kill three people and destroy roads, bridges and houses, affecting two thirds of slovenian territory..

Devastating floods triggered by torrential rains have caused the death of at least three people in Slovenia, with estimated damage of 500 million euros ($550m).

Prime Minister Robert Golob said on Saturday that floods on Thursday and Friday were “the biggest natural disaster” in the small Alpine nation’s history.

Golob said road and energy infrastructure were hit particularly hard, as well as hundreds of homes and other buildings. Thousands of people have been forced to evacuate their homes and many had to be rescued by helicopters or firefighters in boats.

Slovenia’s army has joined the relief effort, with troops reaching cut-off areas in the north to help.

Two-thirds of the territory in the country, home to two million people, were affected, the prime minister said.

Among those who died were two Dutch climbers on Friday in the mountains near Kranj, presumably as a result of being struck by lightning, Slovenia’s STA news agency reported citing police.

Also on Friday, a woman died due to flooding in the town of Kamnik, 20km (12.5 miles) north of the capital, Ljubljana, according to the report.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assured Slovenia of the union’s help. The damage in Slovenia was “heartbreaking”, she tweeted.

In Dravograd, near the border with Austria, 110 people, including 30 tourists, had to be brought to safety after a landslide Saturday.

The town, which lies at the confluence of three rivers – Drava, Meze and Mislinje – was at risk of another landslide.

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EU leader promises aid and support to flood-ravaged Slovenia during visit

A flooded area is seen in Crna na Koroskem, Slovenia, Sunday, Aug. 6, 2023. The floods were caused by torrential rains on Friday which caused rivers to swell swiftly and burst into houses, fields and towns. Slovenia’s weather service said a month’s worth of rain fell in less than a day. Experts say extreme weather conditions are partly fueled by climate change. (AP Photo)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, center, and Prime Minister of Slovenia Robert Golob, right, visit Crna, Slovenia, Wednesday Aug. 9, 2023, ravaged by recent floods that killed at least six people and caused extensive damage. Slovenian officials have described last week’s floods as the worst natural disaster in the country’s 32-year history. (Anze Malovrh/STA via AP)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, second right, with Prime Minister of Slovenia Robert Golob, right, visit Crna, Slovenia, Wednesday Aug. 9, 2023, ravaged by recent floods that killed at least six people and caused extensive damage. Slovenian officials have described last week’s floods as the worst natural disaster in the country’s 32-year history. (Anze Malovrh/STA via AP)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, right, and Prime Minister of Slovenia Robert Golob, third right, visit Crna, Slovenia, Wednesday Aug. 9, 2023, ravaged by recent floods that killed at least six people and caused extensive damage. Slovenian officials have described last week’s floods as the worst natural disaster in the country’s 32-year history. (Anze Malovrh/STA via AP)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, left, and Prime Minister of Slovenia Robert Golob, second left, visit Crna, Slovenia, Wednesday Aug. 9, 2023, ravaged by recent floods that killed at least six people and caused extensive damage. Slovenian officials have described last week’s floods as the worst natural disaster in the country’s 32-year history. (Anze Malovrh/STA via AP)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, center, and Prime Minister of Slovenia Robert Golob, center right, visit Crna, Slovenia, Wednesday Aug. 9, 2023, ravaged by recent floods that killed at least six people and caused extensive damage. Slovenian officials have described last week’s floods as the worst natural disaster in the country’s 32-year history. (Anze Malovrh/STA via AP)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, center right, visits Crna, Slovenia, Wednesday Aug. 9, 2023, ravaged by recent floods that killed at least six people and caused extensive damage. Slovenian officials have described last week’s floods as the worst natural disaster in the country’s 32-year history. (Anze Malovrh/STA via AP)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, right, visits Crna, Slovenia, Wednesday Aug. 9, 2023, ravaged by recent floods that killed at least six people and caused extensive damage. Slovenian officials have described last week’s floods as the worst natural disaster in the country’s 32-year history. (Anze Malovrh/STA via AP)

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LJUBLJANA, Slovenia (AP) — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Slovenia on Wednesday and promised EU help to the small member state which was ravaged by recent floods that killed at least six people and caused extensive damage.

Von der Leyen said after meeting with Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob that they discussed a package of “three components” designed to provide immediate financial aid but also mid and long-term support for reconstruction.

“I am here today to let Slovenia and the Slovenian people know that Europe stands by your side,” said von der Leyen, who visited a hard-hit village in northern Slovenia, by the border with Austria, to get a first-hand view of the devastation.

Von der Leyen said 100 million euros ($110 million) this year from the EU’s Solidarity Fund and 300 million euros ($330 million) in 2024 will be made accessible to Slovenia. Additionally, it can draw from other funds or reprogram existing ones, she added.

“A lot of investment has to be done for the recovery of this country,” she said. “Slovenia can count on Europe.”

Slovenian officials have described last week’s floods as the worst natural disaster in the country’s 32-year history. Two-thirds of the Alpine state’s territory was affected and the damage could reach billions of euros (dollars), according to officials.

Torrential rains caused rivers to overflow, flooding houses and fields, damaging bridges and roads, cutting off entire villages and leaving thousands without electricity and running water.

Experts say extreme weather conditions are partly fueled by climate change. Parts of Europe have seen record heat and wildfires this summer.

Golob has said that the greatest damage was to the road and energy infrastructure and that Slovenia will need EU support to rebuild. A number of countries have already sent people and equipment to help.

“European Union is the best thing that happened to Slovenia, and Europe ... because, as we asked for help we got it instantly,” Golob said at the press conference with von der Leyen. “That is the European solidarity that we are proud of.”

At the Vatican, Pope Francis said Wednesday that he was praying for victims of floods in Slovenia and Georgia and offered his thanks to those providing aid.

“In recent days, dramatic natural phenomena in Slovenia and Georgia have caused much material destruction,” he said. “I pray for the victims, express my spiritual closeness to their families and to all those who are suffering from these disasters, while I thank those who have offered help, especially volunteers.”

Experts in Slovenia have warned that although the rain has stopped, further danger looms from landslides in water-soaked areas. Slovenia’s weather service said a month’s worth of rain fell in less than a day last Thursday and Friday.

Several severe storms in the Alpine nation earlier in the summer blew off roofs, downed thousands of trees and killed one person in Slovenia and four others elsewhere in the region.

Flash floods were also reported in neighboring Austria and Croatia and heavy rains and storms caused major damage farther east in Serbia, which is downstream on the swollen Sava River that flows from Slovenia and Croatia over the Balkans.

Slovenia Sees Record Tourism Numbers in 2023 Despite Floods

Slovenia welcomed over 6 million visitors in 2023 who spent more than 16 million nights, representing the highest tourism figures on record according to new data from the country’s Statistical Office .

The capital Ljubljana saw especially strong growth, up 20.7% in overnight stays.

Foreign visitors accounted for 72% of total overnight stays, with Germany as the top source market.

Mountain and urban municipalities attracted the most tourists, while coastal towns saw declines.

Despite summer floods , Slovenia’s tourism industry showed resilience with continued investments reaping rewards.

Ljubljana Tourist Overnight Stays Hit New Highs

Ljubljana saw considerable expansion in 2023, recording 1.1 million visitor arrivals and 2.3 million overnight stays.

This translates to year-on-year growth of 20.7% in nights spent, representing the highest increase across Slovenia.

Thirty percent of December’s foreign overnight stays took place in the bustling capital, affirming its popularity.

Mixed December Figures Across Slovenia

In December 2023, Slovenia registered 329,000 arrivals and 795,000 overnight stays, rises of 10.6% and 8.7% respectively versus 2022.

Domestic tourists spent 1% more nights while foreigners increased overnights by 14.1% to 492,787. This indicates foreign vs domestic tourist trends tilted further toward visitors from abroad in December and over 2023 generally.

Germany Still #1 Source Market

Analyzing statistics by source market, several countries achieved double-digit overnight stay increases.

Arrivals from Croatia spiked 46.4% while nights spent climbed 38.3% to 621,546.

Italy also posted sizable gains of 12.8% in arrivals and 13.7% in overnights.

However, Germany retained its number-one position for top source markets for Slovenia tourism, generating 1.9 million nights.

Though seeing a slower 6.3% rise in nights, Germany provided 16% of all foreign overnights.

Floods Hit Slovenia Tourism Sector But Strong Rebound Ensues

Destinations across Slovenia endured the extensive impact of floods on Slovenia tourism in 2023 during peak summer months.

Commenting on the new figures, Tourism Minister Matjaž Han specifically credited the sector’s resilience noting record highs were still achieved despite this disruption

Flood damage was mitigated through ongoing investments like mountain resort upgrades.

Thus, tourism resilience in Slovenia post-floods is evidenced by 2023 having 2% more overnights than the previous best year, 2019.

Private Accommodations Expand 15%

Evaluating statistics across accommodation types, privately owned rooms, apartments, and houses saw a considerable 15% year-on-year expansion in nights spent. This demonstrates strong growth in Slovenia’s private accommodation sector versus commercial options.

Another standout figure was record American tourist arrivals in Slovenia, up 31% in 2023 per the Slovenian Tourist Board.

More personalized offerings could attract further US visitors going forward.

Urban Areas Prosper While Coastal Towns Decline

Breaking down Slovenian tourist destinations' annual growth figures, urban municipalities achieved nearly 14% more visitor nights across 2023.

Mountain resorts likewise increased overnights by 3%, showing consistent popularity through the seasons.

Conversely, seaside resorts and ‘other’ smaller municipalities saw dips of -0.6% and -2% respectively.

Investing in sustainable offerings could help coastal areas rebound.

Multi-Year Investments Bear Fruit

Minister Han credited Slovenia’s tourism investment cycle over recent years with upgrading facilities and expanding capacity. This includes mountain resort improvements among other initiatives.

Such efforts kept Slovenia ahead of wider European and global tourism recovery curves per the Tourist Board.

With another strong year forecast for 2024, Slovenia looks to maintain tourism growth momentum.

Record Tourism Numbers Position Slovenia for Future Growth

Despite summer flooding hampering the peak season, Slovenia reached all-time high tourism figures in 2023.

As longstanding investments generate returns, Slovenia is poised for another year of tourism growth pending no major disruptions.

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Slovenia Fully Reopens to Tourism after Intense Flooding

Slovenia's peak tourist season is in full swing despite the floods last weekend, which hit certain destinations and impacted travel. Nevertheless, most of Slovenia remains fully functional, assuring a pleasant getaway. Destinations and tourism providers are doing their best to offer guests a safe and comfortable stay, and the best travel experience, which Slovenia is known for. 

While the severe floods over the last weekend did lead to localized disruptions, it is important to note that most of Slovenia remains fully operational, eager to welcome guests and ensure unforgettable holiday experiences. The STB is in constant contact with the tourist destinations and does our best to ensure our guests have  up-to-date information about the current situation in specific destinations , as well as numerous practical tips and useful links, to make your stay in Slovenia as carefree as possible. 

If you are thinking about exciting travel stories to write about, Slovenia stands ready. The summer season is ideal for exploring cultural treasures, embarking Slovenian Coast, indulging in wellness retreats, or savoring exquisite culinary delights. Slovenia's diverse attractions and warm hospitality will leave lasting memories and a desire to return. 

Do not miss Slovenia's  picturesque coastline , adorned with sun-soaked coastal towns also known for producing wine, olive oil, and salt, or wander amongst the orchards, vineyards, and romantic villages in  Brda . Ensure you include a visit to the renowned  Lipica Stud Farm , the historic birthplace of the world-famous Lipizzaner horses, listed on  UNESCO's Representative List of the World's Intangible Heritage .

The captivating  Karst region  is another must-see. With around 13,000 caves, including the breathtaking  Postojna Cave , Europe's largest cave system, and the  UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves , Slovenia is a paradise for cave enthusiasts.

Explore the charming cities as well: the capital  Ljubljana  invites you to wander its scenic streets, while  Maribor , the second-largest city, boasts the world's oldest vine, symbolizing the city's rich viticultural heritage. If your heart beats for more into nature, the  Pohorje Hills  will captivate you with extensive forests, peat bogs, and lakes.

For those seeking  spa experiences , numerous natural spa resorts like  Rogaška Slatina , known for its revered mineral-rich springs,  Dobrna  Spa with its blend of modern treatments and historic charm, and  Terme Olimia Spa  with luxurious pools, offer holistic wellness rejuvenating escape.

In the eastern part of Slovenia, the  Pomurje region   offers a serene haven with rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages.  Visit Expano , an interactive pavilion, to explore the region's wonders through cutting-edge technology, interactive exhibits, and captivating events. Further south, you can visit  Dolenjska  and enjoy idyllic moments among vineyards or make unforgettable romantic memories at the charming  Otočec Castle .

Lastly, do not overlook Slovenia's breathtaking outdoors. Dive into the  Soča Valley  for exhilarating adventures and soak in the natural beauty of Slovenia's haven for nature lovers. Additionally, the valley has become a gastronomic hub under the renowned chef  Ana Roš , world's best female chef in 2017. She has masterfully merged the valley's natural splendours with exceptional gastronomy, earning  Hiša Franko  two Michelin stars. Or immerse yourself in the wonders of Slovenia's famous Alpine areas— Bled ,  Bohinj , which promise to create enduring memories.

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Dozens of Dutch tourists file damage claims after Slovenia floods

Dozens of Dutch travelers sustained damage during their stay in Slovenia during the floods and landslides. Insurance companies have reported damages to vehicles, tents, and other personal belongings caused by the severe weather.

The storm last week in Slovenia resulted in six fatalities, including two Dutch nationals from Gouda. SOS International organized two buses to transport Dutch tourists back to the Netherlands , who could not return on their own due to damages to their vehicles. They arrived in the Netherlands last Monday.

The insurance company Nationale Nederlanden received 25 to 30 reports of damage, according to a spokesperson. "Most reports concern cars or caravans that were washed away, damaged tents, or personal belongings." The spokesperson also mentioned that the number of damage reports could increase slightly in the upcoming weeks. Nationale Nederlanden also covers OHRA and the insurance divisions of ABN AMRO, ING, and SNS.

A spokesperson from Centraal Beheer reported receiving 30 to 40 claims from their insured travelers. The damages were mainly due to water entering caravans and tents. "The cases are not extreme," she remarked. Insurance company Interpolis reported "several dozen" damage claims.

As of Monday, the floods in Slovenia have been officially declared a calamity by the Calamity Fund. This means that the fund will compensate for costs incurred by travelers, such as adjustments to travel plans, repatriation, and unused vacation days. This arrangement only applies to those already in the affected area during the severe weather. To be eligible for compensation, travelers must have booked through a travel agency affiliated with the Calamity Fund.

Reporting by ANP

STO Slovenska turistična organizacija STO

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Slovenian tourism stages remarkable post-pandemic comeback in 2023

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2023 marks a success for Slovenian tourism, as affirmed by Matjaž Han, Minister of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, and MSc. Maja Pak Olaj, Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board, during a press conference in Ljubljana today. Despite global challenges, including an unfavourable economic situation, high transport costs, travel restrictions and severe floods in August, Slovenia's tourism rebounded at a pace surpassing the European and global average. The number of tourist arrivals and overnight stays has now returned to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels.

According to the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia , there were nearly 6.2 million tourist arrivals in Slovenia last year, resulting in just over 16.1 million overnight stays – a record high.

In comparison to 2022, arrivals increased by 5.5 percent, and overnight stays rose by 3.5 percent. Contrasting with the pre-coronavirus year 2019, tourist arrivals saw a slight decrease of 0.6 percent, while the number of overnight stays increased by 2.2 percent.

Minister of the Economy, Tourism and Sports, Matjaž Han , expressed pride in these accomplishments, highlighting the industry's resilience despite August's catastrophic floods during the peak summer season. Additionally, the stressed that “the value of travel exports strengthened, reaching 3.08 billion euros from January to November 2023 – a 10% increase compared to the same period the previous year. These results underscore the resilience of Slovenian tourism and its ability to overcome significant challenges. The collaboration between the state, municipalities, tourist companies, organizations, employees and volunteers is crucial in creating higher quality and recognition for Slovenian tourist destinations. I believe that Slovenia is well on its way to realizing the vision of "green boutique" tourism, characterized by a smaller ecological footprint and greater value for all.”

Simultaneously, Minister Han underscored that, aligned with the Slovenian tourism strategy until 2028, the ministry is dedicated to enhancing the quality of tourist services and increasing added value on a national scale. "This initiative will not only benefit tourist companies but also their employees and, last but not least, the local population. Going forward, it is imperative to continually elevate the quality of tourist products. Strengthening management and integration at the regional-destination level will be pivotal, as our aim is to foster tourism development evenly across the country throughout the year. All these efforts align with the 'Something more and much better' strategy, emphasizing a measured increase in capacity and, above all, ensuring higher quality and added value for all," clarified Minister Han .

Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board (STB), MSc. Maja Pak Olaj , expressed satisfaction with Slovenian tourism's performance in 2023, stating: "Despite numerous challenges, we recovered at a pace faster than both Europe and the world. Achieving near-full recovery post-pandemic highlights Slovenia's strong position as one of the most desirable tourist destinations. As we entered 2024, the STB embarked on an ambitious plan comprising extensive promotional and communication activities, targeting both foreign and domestic markets. The focus for 2024 and 2025 is especially on art and culture. Our goal is to showcase Slovenia as a sustainable, modern and creative destination, characterized by top creators, artistic production, festivals, events and preserved cultural heritage. Ongoing breakthrough development projects, including the establishment of the National Information CentrE and the upgrade and digitalization of the Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism, align with our main goal—to contribute to the continued quality growth and higher added value of Slovenian tourism."

Remarkable annual performance: 18% growth in international tourist arrivals

Compared to 2022, there was an 18.4 percent increase in foreign tourist arrivals last year, while domestic tourists decreased by 20.6 percent. Simultaneously, foreign tourists saw a 14.7 percent rise in overnight stays annually, while domestic overnight stays dropped by 17 percent.

In comparison to 2019, the pre-pandemic year, domestic tourist arrivals grew by 0.4 percent, whereas foreign tourist arrivals declined by 0.9 percent.

According to the latest data from UNWTO , international arrivals at the global level in 2023 were still behind 2019 by 12 percent, and in Europe by 6 percent. Slovenia therefore recovered faster than the European and world average.

Slovenia therefore recovered faster than the European and world average

Compared to 2019, Slovenia experienced a 2.2 percent increase in tourist overnight stays in 2023. Foreign tourist overnight stays rose by 1.6 percent, while domestic tourist overnight stays increased by 3.8 percent. The ratio between overnight stays by domestic and foreign tourists has nearly equalized compared to the period before the pandemic.

Strong growth in arrivals from the German and Visegrad markets

Germany, Italy and Austria remain the most crucial foreign markets, followed by the Czech, Dutch, Croatian, Hungarian, French, Polish and UK markets .

Overnight stays by German tourists increased by 24.4 percent compared to 2019. Markets in the Visegrad Group, including the Czech Republic (+28.8 percent), Hungary (+14.1 percent), Poland (+31.4 percent), and Slovakia (+36.5 percent), showed significant growth. The Netherlands (+9.9 percent), Belgium (+7.1 percent), France (+28.9 percent) and Croatia (+15.5 percent) also saw positive trends. However, tourists from Italy (-15.6 percent), the United Kingdom (-13.6 percent), and Austria (-3.3 percent) are returning more slowly post-pandemic. Multi-year trends in these markets indicate a gradual recovery.

For more information on tourist arrivals and overnight stays last year, visit the STB website .

Ministry's proactive initiatives: two public tenders and an ambitious action plan

Aligned with the Slovenian tourism strategy, the Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport (MGTŠ) is committed to enhancing the quality of tourist services and increasing added value in the ongoing year. The ministry also places a strong emphasis on adapting tourism to climate change. This is evident in the extensive investment cycle initiated by the Ministry over the last two years, encompassing support for investments in sustainable and high-quality tourist accommodation, the transformation of ski resorts into year-round mountain resorts and investments in renovating facilities and areas of public tourist infrastructure in key tourist destinations. This year, together with investors, the Ministry will continue implementing supported projects from last year's public tenders. These projects include 58 investment projects for renovating or constructing tourist accommodations and 58 projects for enhancing public and shared tourist infrastructure or natural attractions.

The Ministry's plans for this year feature two significant public tenders. The first, anticipated in February, involves a public tender to promote the introduction of environmental signs for providers in the hospitality and tourism industry, with a budget of 300,000 euros . The second tender focuses on the development of tourism in tourist destinations within the European Cohesion Policy framework, with an estimated worth of seven million euros .

In the ongoing implementation of the Slovenian Tourism Strategy 2022-2028 , the Ministry, with some measures already underway, is set to formulate an action plan this year. This plan will encompass a range of measures and activities across various ministries. On the legislative front, a promise stands for an amendment to the Hospitality Act, aiming to enhance the working conditions of tourism providers.

STB's focus on art and culture in 2024

As we step into 2024, the Slovenian Tourist Board (STB) remains committed to an array of promotional and communication endeavours. These include an expansive global digital campaign in 21 foreign markets, partnerships with top athletes as ambassadors of Slovenian tourism, partnerships at major international sports events , participation in global fairs, stock exchanges, workshops and other business events. Not to be overlooked is the continuation of the "Moja Slovenija" campaign on the domestic market and ongoing collaboration with esteemed foreign associations, brands, and media outlets.

In terms of development, STB’s efforts persist with the implementation of crucial projects. These involve establishing the National Information Centre , upgrading and digitalizing the Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism and organizing various educational and professional events.

Simultaneously, the STB introduces the main promotional theme for 2024 and 2025: art and culture . This thematic shift aligns with the Slovenian Tourist Board's central vision to portray Slovenia as a sustainable, modern and creative destination , distinguished by eminent creators, artistic productions, festivals, events and a rich cultural heritage. The focus lies on modern art forms such as fine arts, literature, photography, music, film, dance, theatre, as well as a celebration of tradition and cultural heritage.

In line with the main communication theme , a fresh concept emerges within STB’s strategy— the inclusion of storytellers from the world of culture, art and creativity . These are prominent Slovenian artists and creators, recognized internationally, who will work with us to enhance Slovenia's visibility as a destination for art and culture.

The first partnership of this kind featured the young artists' group, Joker Out . Together with them, the STB is creating engaging posts on social networks and captivating visual stories, designed especially to resonate with the preferences of new generations of travellers. In the weeks and months ahead, the STB will unveil more personalities from the fields of art and culture, each contributing to the compelling stories of Slovenian art, culture and tourism.

In the cover photo from left to right: Dubravka Kalin, General Director of the Directorate of Tourism; Matjaž Han, Minister of the Economy, Tourism and Sport and MSc. Maja Pak Olaj, Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board.

Photo: Siniša Kanižaj for STB

Global public relations and Marketing e-mail address: press(at)slovenia.info

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The above forms of use include solely a free-of-charge form of using materials for the purposes of promoting tourism activities and services in the Republic of Slovenia or presenting Slovenia as a tourist destination.

Prohibited forms of using materials/commercial use of materials

Using materials for commercial purposes , such as reproduction on postcards, T-shirts, books, magnets, embedding audio-visual inserts in one’s own promotional materials, all forms of external advertising (stationary billboards, digital advertising, etc.), use in advertisements unrelated to the promotion of Slovenia as a tourist destination, use on websites that are not intended to present Slovenian tourism products and services and similar activities, is not included in these General Terms and Conditions and is prohibited .

It is strictly prohibited to use materials on media and distribution channels that are marketed or sold to users (books, school textbooks, other commercial publishing, calendars, postcards, fast-moving consumer goods (clothes and other products), advertising of non-tourism products and services, reproduction of materials on vehicles, etc.).

For more information regarding permitted forms of use, please contact us at  [email protected] .

Audio-visual materials (video)

Using audio-visual materials is allowed only in the unchanged form available in the Media Library . Transformations, adaptations, clips, embeddings, and instances of using individual shots in one’s own audio-visual works, even if intended for promotional purposes, is prohibited.

Breaches of General Terms and Conditions

Any breach of economic and/or moral rights of the authors of photographs or audio-visual recordings may constitute a criminal offence and may result in substantive and damage liability of the user.

The entity breaching copyright pertaining to the material shall reimburse the Slovenian Tourist Board for all the damage incurred to it due to the breach of rights.

The Slovenian Tourist Board shall not be liable for any use of photos and video recordings that is contrary to these rules. The user of the material shall be entirely responsible for the content and manner of use.

General provisions

These Media Library General Terms and Conditions shall apply for all instances of using the material unless the Slovenian Tourist Board and user agree on special terms of using the material in advance and in writing for a specific instance of using the material.

These General Terms and Conditions shall be subject to occasional amendments. Upon the user’s publication of the material, the version of the General Terms and Conditions that is current at that particular time shall apply for the use of materials. If the user disagrees with the amendments made to these General Terms and Conditions, they shall immediately cease using the material and remove it from all media and other communication channels.

For more information, please contact us at  [email protected] .

Slovenian Tourist Board Ljubljana, 1 June 2022

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Most of the Slovenian economy is operating completely normally after the floods

• Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Tirana
• Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport
• Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs
• Government Communication Office
• Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in London

Slovenian companies are innovative, professional, reliable, and very flexible business partners, which is why Slovenia urges foreign business partners who have done business with the affected Slovenian companies to continue to cooperate with them and not to look for replacement suppliers in the meantime. The state has taken quick, concrete, and effective measures to help the affected companies so that they can mitigate the consequences of natural disaster and resume their business activities as soon as possible. Slovenia also expresses its profound gratitude to all countries that have provided support and assistance in these difficult times.  

The Minister of Economy, Tourism and Sports, Matjaž Han , points out, " After the floods in August, which affected some parts of Slovenia, most of the Slovenian economy is functioning completely normally ." At the same time, he highlights the government's quick action: " The Slovenian government stands behind the affected Slovenian companies, which will soon be able to resume work. The government has taken quick, concrete, and effective measures to help the affected companies. The measures are aimed at helping the affected companies as quickly as possible to repair the damage, ensure liquidity, retain employees and resume operations as soon as possible. " Minister Han also urges foreign business partners and existing foreign customers " to maintain cooperation with the affected Slovenian companies in the future and not to look for replacement suppliers in the meantime." Foreign investment and business by foreign-owned companies is welcome, appreciated, and safe in Slovenia.

A series of measures to help businesses

The Slovenian government reacted immediately and, together with representatives of the Slovenian business community, prepared a series of measures to help businesses in the affected areas recover as quickly as possible. It is also working closely with foreign chambers of commerce that have representative offices in Slovenia. The amendment to the Natural Disaster Recovery Act has introduced a series of measures to support the affected business sector, enabling funds to be made available to businesses for assistance in the event of natural disasters, either in the form of grants (as subsidies) or in repayable form (as loans or guarantees). The total value of all measures taken thus far amounts to more than EUR 700 million .

The series of measures to help businesses include:

• Measures to retaining jobs (including subsidising temporary layoffs for employers who are temporarily unable to provide work to their employees due to flooding; subsidising the absence of an employee for reasons of force majeure; aid for self-employed persons and farmers and p artial wage reimbursement for employees who remedy flood consequences at their employer);
• Advance payment and partly reimbursement of damage ( including advance payments for businesses of up to 10% of the estimated amount of damage for the co-financing of remedying damage to machinery, equipment and inventory and loss of income);
• Assessment of damage to commercial buildings ( Businesses report the damage to the municipality in which they are located):
• Ensuring the liquidity of businesses with loans and guarantees from the Slovenian Enterprise Fund and SID Bank;
• Deferral of the payment of loans from public funds and bank loans (Businesses that have hs received loans can apply for  a 12-month deferral of the payment of loans from public funds , and a 24-month deferral of the payment of bank loans.);
• Extension of deadlines for project implementation (The Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport will endeavour to grant, within the scope of its possibilities, the proposals of businesses and municipalities to  extend deadlines for the implementation of projects. ).

The government also plans to set up a special fund to finance reconstruction works after Slovenia's worst floods in living memory. 

Also reed detailed information about the measures .

Slovenia is a land of infinite potential

Slovenia is an export-oriented country with a large share of industry and a sustained growth rate in the past with good forecasts for the coming years. The economy is diversified and well immersed into the European production chain. Services provide most of the total value added, but what sets Slovenia apart is the large share of industry: with more than a 28% share of total value added, it is the third most industrialised EU Member State. Industry also accounts for 80% of private investment in R&D.

The reasons to do business in and with Slovenia are numerous and quite obvious: its strategic geographical location, excellent transport links and quality infrastructure, highly skilled and well-educated workforce, high level of stability, favourable tax policy and, finally, the high quality of life. Due to its relatively small size and well-developed R&D environment, it is an ideal location for various test projects, development projects and high-value-added projects. Slovenia has been recognised globally as one of the leaders in artificial intelligence (AI), which is why it was chosen as a host country for UNESCO’s International Research Centre on AI. Not a single car is produced in Europe without at least one component made in Slovenia. This includes the most prestigious makes such as Rolls Royce, Bugatti and Ferrari, popular ones like Volkswagen, and everything in between. And the world’s first serially produced and fully certified electric airplane is made by a Slovenian company. Those are just a few facts about Slovenian innovativeness and excellence.

Spirit Slovenia - Green, Creative, Smart

• 2023 SPIRIT SLOVENIA green creative smart (pdf, 1.6 MB)

As mentioned above, most of the Slovenian economy is functioning completely normally after the floods, it is safe and open for business. Therefore, foreign companies that want to invest or do business with Slovenian companies are very welcome and appreciated.

Floods hit Slovenia

On a special website, you can find news, instructions and measures in case of floods, as well as information on how you can help.

Current news and flood advice

Izberite jezik

• Slovenščina

Domestic Tourism Can Protect the Environment

"Had I known that my success would be at the expense of destroying the planet, I would have chosen another job." lamented the founder of one of the largest budget travel and tourism operators in Europe.

That was in the wake of the fires in the Greek Islands and the floods in Slovenia, where tens of thousands of his clients were injured or trapped, and he was busy making contingency plans for their evacuation. He stressed that when he started his company 25 years ago, he did not imagine the extent of the contribution of mass tourism to pollution, destruction of natural habitats and climate change.

However, discovering these devastating effects today will not stop him expanding his business in cheap mass tourism, because if he does, other investors will be ready to take his place, and the destruction will not stop. He tried to carefully select his words with the shrewdness of a businessman, vowing to devote a portion of his company's profits to repairing the damage caused by its business. However, by then it may be too late and there might be nothing left to be repaired.

While the fires that struck popular tourist sites in the Mediterranean countries attracted media attention, because they affected hundreds of thousands of people and turned homes and vast forests into ashes in popular locations known to hordes of tourists, they were not by any means the only environmental disaster this season.

The record rise in sea water temperature has hit coral reefs from Florida to Sharm El-Sheikh, causing them to bleach and degenerate. In addition to their importance in attracting tourists due to the beauty of their unique colorful formations, coral reefs play a crucial role in providing food for a large group of marine organisms and maintaining biodiversity. While coral reefs tolerate high temperatures, because they live in warm waters, the temperature rise for long periods above normal levels ultimately leads to their death. The latest in a string of environmental - touristic disasters this season were the fires in Hawaii, which struck Maui, a favorite tourist destination.

There is scientific consensus that climate change is the main reason for the increase in extreme natural phenomena, in terms of their size, number and frequency. This is manifested in unusually high temperatures that extend for long periods, as well as in heavy rains that defy usual dates and locations, storms, hurricanes, and frequent severe floods. Mass travel, with the destruction of natural habitats that accompanies it, is a major source of carbon emissions that cause global warming.

If oblivion is a blessing, as it helps people overcome adversity and turn a new leaf, it becomes precarious when it leads to neglect taking benefit from experiences, in order not to make the same mistakes.

When the coronavirus pandemic struck, confining people to their homes and countries and impeding travel between continents, domestic tourism flourished. Many people discovered wonderful sites in their immediate vicinity that they had not visited or knew existed before, because promotional campaigns focus on far away exotic tourist destinations.

While observers thought that getting used to domestic tourism would continue after the pandemic, it turned out they were wrong, because during the last year tourists returned in droves to foreign destinations, like a prisoner escaping jail. As soon as the fires subsided in the Greek islands, accompanied by heavy rains in northern Europe following the heat waves, tourists returned there by the thousands, fleeing the northern rains, as if nothing had happened.

Exploring distant regions of the world was in the past limited to a small group of adventurers, who were considered "explorers". Some of them shared their experiences with others by writing about the characteristics of nature, architecture, ways of life, culture, and the customs and traditions of peoples, thus contributing to the dissemination of knowledge and interaction among civilizations.

But most of the tourist tours around the world today have turned to recreation, as the tourist often goes from lying on a beach in his country to stretching on a beach in another far away country. Many tourist trips actually lack any cultural, heritage or historical element, such as when a tourist goes to Paris and is satisfied with visiting night clubs, shopping, and sitting in cafes and restaurants, without setting foot in any museum, concert, art gallery, or even a public park.

I recently met a tourist in the Austrian city of Salzburg, who asked me for the address of a restaurant serving Arabic food, only for me to discover that he wasn't aware that the city was hosting, during that time, one of the most important music festivals in the world, and that it is the birthplace of the great musician Mozart and includes important museums and archaeological sites. It was as if his desire to travel thousands of kilometers and cause tons of pollution and carbon emissions to visit this city with a long history was just to eat a meal of meat and rice.

In times of major environmental and climatic challenges, the unrestrained expansion of recreational mass tourism needs some control. Continuing at the current pace threatens the elementary foundations on which tourism is based, such as favorable weather, clean beaches, green forests, and attractive natural and archaeological features, in addition to threatening the environment. This does not mean banning recreational tourism, but regulating it, which necessitates setting restrictions such as imposing fees on trips, to be spent towards measures to protect the environment, repair damage to ecosystems, prevent pollution, and treat waste. It also requires limiting the number of tourists and keeping some sensitive areas closed.

Cultural and heritage considerations must also be integrated into tourist excursions, so attention is not limited to beaches and entertainment venues within cities, but extends to interaction with indigenous communities.

It is also necessary to encourage domestic tourism, by creating attractive attractions to the people of the country and its neighbors, while preserving the environmental balance. This not only helps reduce emissions and relieve pressure on the global environment, but also supports the local economy and preserves native ecosystems. Traveling to nearby regions reduces emissions and limits the expenditure of national wealth abroad.

Perhaps most important is for citizens to discover natural and historic sites in their countries, which is a motivation to protect and preserve them. I remember that when I published "Nature Book" in 2002, with 14 chapters exploring little known forests, deserts and seas in Arab countries, I was surprised that most of the local population had not heard of these wonderful sites before. A lot needs to be done to promote controlled local tourism, for its enormous economic, cultural and environmental advantages.