Okusi i mirisi Zadra usred urbane džugle New Yorka
February 1, 2020
Naravno da je među gostima bila i Wanda Radetti, podrijetlom Riječanka, koja nas je dočekala s pohvalama tipa “sve što dolazi iz Hrvatske je lijepo” ali i iz “Zadra, Zadar, taj lijepi Zadar kojem tako nedostaju hoteli…”.
Wanda’s Rijeka in 2020
The Coastal City of Rijeka
When a traveler first approaches our company for our specialization, as they are thinking of visiting Croatia, they arrive with visions comprised of Dubrovnik, the Island of Hvar, Split with Diocletian’s Palace and the adjacent islands that decorate the coast of the Croatian Adriatic.
But there is more, so much more, for the most curious and sophisticated traveler.
When such travelers, afforded with the opportunity and curiosity to visit Croatia beyond the obvious, those who desire traveling off the “beaten path”, in search of yet to be accentuated destinations – for these travelers, the City of Rijeka comes to mind.
Rijeka full of life
A coastal city, and port, Rijeka is the capital of the Croatian region of Kvarner. I was born in Rijeka when it was still called Fiume (Italian for river). It is where my heart still calls “home”. As Croatians and Europeans know well, this moderate sized town is a vibrant destination with an intriguing history, home to an abundance of festivals including advent and Carnival.
The vibrant lifestyle has attracted artists and thinkers, musicians and poets. Rijeka has chosen for itself the motto, “Port of Diversity”, as a celebration of the confluence of heritage, culture and history that happily find their home here.
The year 2020 marks an extraordinary time to be there!
European Capital of Culture Opening Celebrations – photos courtesy of Rijeka Tourist Board
Rijeka – European Capital of Culture 2020
This year, Rijeka has been crowned with the title of the European Capital of Culture.
As such, Rijeka serves to represent and highlight Croatia to all of Europe – asserting its importance on the cultural map of Europe. The title bestowed to Rijeka will showcase the city’s cultural heritage and life to be found there. It comes at a time when Croatia is also to hold the presidency of the Council of the European Union, making it the first country in the history of the European Union to be simultaneously endowed with both honors.
European Capital of Culture Opening Celebrations – photos courtesy of Rijeka Tourist Board
Select photos by Petar Kurschner
Marked with nearly 1000 individual programs, Rijeka’s appointment of European Capital of Culture was inaugurated with a celebration on Saturday, February 1st and is scheduled to conclude in late February 2021. Programming ranges from pop culture, to contemporary art installations, to theater, concerts, dance, ballet, opera, fashion shows, activities and educational engagements along with exhibitions of traditional and contemporary artworks.
The city is prepared to welcome, educate and entertain by offering an abundance of events that will respond to the interests and curiosities of World travelers.
Click this image for the 2020 calendar of events!
European Commission Vice-President for Demography and Democracy Dubravka Suica said, ““The European Union is defined by the culture and values, by what we as European are and want to be.” She noted that Rijeka’s rich heritage clearly demonstrates the different cultural and historical influences, as well as the religious and ethnic communities, which have played a role in shaping the city.
Rijeka Karneval
Rijeka, a member of the Federation of European Carnival Cities.
For me there are more than one hundred reasons to visit Rijeka… it is the home where my heart dances and from where the water and soil are embossed in my DNA.
But, “Karneval”, the Carnival of Rijeka, is for me the most seductive and enchanting time of the year.
Carnival, an ancient pagan tradition, celebrates the diminishing darkness of winter that foretells of the advancing bright light of spring. It is the preparation for redemption and renewal, it is a time when the troubles, problems, the evil spirits of the past winter are wiped away and we regenerate our essence with the joy that spring brings.
“It is the preparation for redemption and renewal, it is a time when the troubles, problems, the evil spirits of the past winter are wiped away and we regenerate our essence with the joy that spring brings.”
Rijeka Karneval Parade and Celebrations
During carnival the city of Rijeka entertains its citizens and visitors by offering a bacchanalian cornucopia of events, it is a period of boisterous celebrations that dresses Rijeka in brilliant colors, revived traditions, frittule, confetti, music, elaborate costumes, dancing in the street, parties, parades, laughter, food and wine.
One of the most anticipated celebrations of the year, preparation for Carnival takes place year round with locals creating costumes and building floats well in advance of the event. A family affair, residents of all ages take place in the fun, with parents, children, grandparents, aunts and uncles all engaged in the revelry.
Rijeka Karneval Celebrations – photos courtesy of Rijeka Tourist Board
During the celebration of Carnival, the citizens have clearance, within the limits of the law, to disregard boundaries, release inhibitions, and play at being whoever, whatever, they wish to be, behind the protection of a mask. Releasing inhibitions in good fun, play, and freedom of enjoying life as whoever they wish to be, setting aside their individuality to embrace the collective spirit and unite with their fellow Rijekans. The carnival spirit embraces the people of the city and surrounding areas…. It is a period of merriment both day and night.
Worth noting is that Rijeka’s Carnival celebration is one of the largest and most acknowledged in Europe. It also stands proudly on the Sunday Times list of the 24 most exotic events in the world.
The Mayor’s Grand Ball Over the Years
This year, the carnival spirit has enveloped the city and surroundings as of the 17th of January.
However, it is the four days prior to Ash Wednesday when the main carnival activities and celebrations occur. The Mayor’s Grand Ball, by coveted invitation only, will take place at the Governor’s Palace on the evening of Saturday, February 22, 2020. Invited guests from around the world, presidents, ministers, royalty, diplomats, actors, musicians, titans of industry, politics and culture will arrive in Rijeka, ready to hide their identity behind colorful masks – masks which will provide them the freedom to be as naughty as they dare.
The following day, the most popular event of carnival and culmination of celebrations – the International Carnival Parade – takes place as it always does on the Sunday prior to Ash Wednesday which in 2020 will be the 23rd February.
Celebrations come to a close on Ash Wednesday, the 26th of February, when residents can begin dreaming of their costumes for the following year.
Truly a spectacle that will never be forgotten, Rijeka Carnival is a delightful celebration to experience. If it is access to the party that our travelers desire, Tasteful Croatian Journeys can open that door.
The Grand Park Hotel, Rovinj
The final anchor to the local collection of Maistra properties, the Grand Park Hotel opened as an instant landmark, the extraordinary architecture a celebration of the views it beholds from within. Opening to much acclaim, The Grand Park made its debut in April 2019. Its addition marks the latest luxury seaside hotel in Rovinj, Istria.
Rovinj, Istria
Istria, the magical region sitting within the heart shaped peninsula, whispering legends of its Venetian and Austrian heritage while delighting the senses with fruits born of its rich soil – wines, olive oils, porcini mushrooms and truffles.
Rovinj sits on Istria’s western side, a fairytale fishing village, hidden from time. Distinguished by the image of the steeple of St. Euphemia Church, rising into the air above the terra cotta rooftops that cluster around it on all sides. The sights, sounds, and scents of the sea are everywhere. The Adriatic sparkles under the sunlit sky, its waves gently meeting the shore along the promenade that embraces Rovinj.
Set on the seaside, the site and surroundings of The Grand Park Hotel are indelibly woven into the thoughtful, detailed construction, incorporating Rovinj’s stunning vistas into virtually every room of the property.
Designed by Croatian architecture firm 3LHD Studio, The Grand Park Hotel structure features cascading planted terraces, designed with the natural slope of the land, stepping down toward to seaside promenade and town. The dazzling architecture blends perfectly into the natural environment.
“No matter where they are in the hotel,
the guest gets the impression they are staying in a park
overlooking Rovinj, St Euphemia, the island of St Catherine
and the most beautiful sea sunset,”
said the practice (3LHD Studio).
The views looking toward the property are equally remarkable. The clean, modern lines of the property juxtaposed with the natural land, sea, and forest. Drawing the eye across the harbor to the colors and visions of Rovinj, the design creates the space necessary to appreciate the romantic beauty of Rovinj’s renaissance architecture.
Guest Accommodations
The property holds six floors, each taking their name from a local tree species.
Guest rooms occupy the first three floors, the fourth floor is home to a conference area and wellness terrace, with its indoor pool, on the 6th floor resides the outdoor pool and sundeck, its infinity edge overlooking Rovinj awash in the fragrance of the Mediterranean gardens below.
Each of the 193 guest rooms, and 16 suites further give access to the natural surroundings with their large balconies, and terraces. Guest rooms greet their residents with addresses, such as 202 Cypress Walk, inviting guests to make the Grand Park Rovinj their home away from home.
Interior Spaces at The Grand Park
The interior spaces elaborate upon the feeling of modern elegance and comfort.
Visionary Italian architect and designer, Piero Lissoni, known for his attention to detail and minimalist approach, artfully crafted the interiors. Relaying upon warm tones, glass, and wood materials to provide a gentle canvas to the interior, Lissoni invites the world outside to take center stage.
Croatian artists were commissioned by request to create pieces to be displayed throughout the property. Lissoni selected earth tones to contrast the bright blues of the sea and sky, bringing the outside landscapes into higher relief.
Guest rooms offer an instant photography camera for use during your stay as a playful way to encourage capturing the enjoyment of each moment, and the memories made here. The copy of a pocket-sized “Rovinj Diaries” notebook placed in each room, reminds you to “Enjoy your time. Take your memories with you.”
The spa treatments are composed with fresh, local botanicals, herbs, essential oils, minerals and clays. The riches of Istria will delicately envelop your senses.
Signature treatments are an homage to the culture of Istria and Rovinj, each beginning with a drink of Rakija, a local traditional remedy.
The Batana Bodywork treatment is inspired by the iconic Batana boat of the region. It is a two-hour massage performed on a specially crafted table that produces a gentle motion, mimicking waves. The bodywork utilizes rowing motions and trigger point releases with a real batana oar to soothe muscles.
The ground floor of the impressive property is a contribution to local gathering, inviting guests and residents of Rovinj to join together in experiencing the moments of life.
Opening onto the newly reconstructed Lungomare Plaza, the seaside promenade also designed by 3LHD Studio, guests flow easily between the Grand Park and the many shops, restaurants and bars on the promenade. An easy stroll brings you to the center of Rovinj in 15 minutes.
The Grand Park offers complimentary service by boat to the small adjacent island, exclusive to guests of Maistra Properties. We suggest a visit at sunset to experience the dazzling light show courtesy of the Adriatic.
Follow the latest happenings of this luxury seaside hotel in Rovinj, Istria at the Grand Park Instagram page here