For decades, Dubrovnik has held a special place on the map of the world’s most desirable destinations for business and incentive travel. Yet behind every successfully delivered event are the people and teams who add real value to the destination. One of them is Ivana Neusidl, Meetings & Incentives Manager at Elite Travel DMC, an agency that for 25 years has been designing and delivering events and incentive programs for international clients in Dubrovnik and across Croatia.
Elite Travel DMC is known for its carefully curated programs—from sourcing ideal venues and creating content to production, entertainment, and engaging special speakers. Their work has been recognized both internationally and nationally, and last year they were finalists at the Croatian Tourism Days in the category “Tourism Package of the Year.”
In conversation with Ivana Neusidl, we explore Dubrovnik’s current position as a MICE destination, what international organizers are most often looking for, what quality destination-wide cooperation looks like, and where the greatest potential for future development lies.
The Strength of the Destination and the Expectations of International Organizers
From the perspective of a DMC that operates behind numerous international events and incentive programs, what are Dubrovnik’s greatest strengths today as a MICE destination, and what challenges should organizers be prepared for?
Dubrovnik stands out as a MICE destination thanks to its unique combination of world-class historical heritage and the ability to host high-end business and incentive events. Few destinations offer such a recognizable backdrop, attractive and unconventional event venues, and the possibility to naturally complement business programs with exclusive experiences at sea, in historic settings, and within an authentic local environment. Dubrovnik’s advantages include strong international recognition combined with cultural heritage, high-quality hotel infrastructure, and attractive event venues. In addition, good air connectivity makes Dubrovnik easily accessible for international participants, further simplifying planning and arrivals for both small and large groups. The city enables the creation of programs that are rich in content, exclusive, and highly memorable. The main challenges relate to high demand and seasonality, which often require early planning and very precise logistics. Restrictions stemming from cultural heritage protection, as well as higher budgets compared to some other destinations, call for realistic client expectations and an experienced local DMC partner capable of managing all operational details at a high level.
What are international event organizers currently most often looking for in Dubrovnik—in terms of event formats, participant experiences, and venue selection?
International organizers are currently most interested in incentive formats that deliver a strong sense of place and genuine emotional value for participants. The focus is on experiential programs that reward and motivate participants through authentic cultural, gastronomic, and active experiences, allowing them to directly experience the traditions and lifestyle of the region. There is a particularly strong interest in gastronomy, which, beyond visits to top restaurants, includes tastings, workshops for preparing local specialties, and visits to local wineries. Programs such as sunset cruises, kayaking tours, sailing, and activities on the Elaphiti Islands consistently rank among the most sought-after. At the same time, organizers are looking for formats that remain in participants’ long-term memory—such as private dinners at historic locations like Fort Lovrjenac, presentations at special venues, or themed activities inspired by Dubrovnik’s rich history.
The success of large events in a destination largely depends on cooperation between DMCs, hotels, venues, and local suppliers. How would you describe the ideal partnership model in Dubrovnik?
In a destination like Dubrovnik, the success of large events is not based solely on logistics, but on true partnership and a shared passion for delivering exceptional experiences. The DMC takes on the role of coordinator, but real results emerge when hotels, venues, and local suppliers actively participate already in the planning phase, sharing ideas, flagging challenges, and jointly seeking creative solutions. Early involvement of all partners and open, honest communication are key to maximizing the unique features of each location. As a premium destination, Dubrovnik requires the maintenance of high quality standards alongside flexibility in every detail. It is precisely through long-term partnerships that go beyond individual projects that events are created which leave a lasting impression.
Sustainability, Luxury, and the Future of Business Events
Sustainability, logistical efficiency, and personalization are becoming the standard. How does Elite Travel DMC help event organizers successfully implement these elements in Dubrovnik?
Elite Travel DMC provides organizers with deep local knowledge, operational precision, and a proven partner network, enabling realistic, logistically efficient, and sustainable solutions within the destination’s existing constraints. As a Travelife-certified DMC, we actively apply principles of sustainable business, from optimizing logistics and smart use of locations and timing, to working with local suppliers who share the same standards of quality, responsibility, and sustainability. At the same time, each program is personalized according to the client’s objectives, integrating authentic local experiences in a way that respects the destination and the community’s long-term value.
Incentive and luxury event segments are becoming increasingly popular. What types of exclusive experiences and programs does Elite Travel DMC offer clients seeking high-end and unforgettable experiences in Dubrovnik?
The incentive and luxury segment today is based on exclusivity, privacy, and authenticity, and in Dubrovnik, this is exactly what we focus on. For clients seeking unforgettable experiences, we create private events at historic locations, meetings in closed heritage spaces, island-based programs, and tailor-made experiences that combine top-level gastronomy, music, and production. We have delivered incentive programs that include exclusive after-hours visits to cultural landmarks, distinctive musical performances, and gala dinners in unique settings across the city. Our approach is rooted in attention to detail and a deep understanding of client goals, because in the luxury segment, the difference lies in the quality of the experience and the feeling that the program was created specifically for them.
How does Elite Travel DMC view its role in connecting events with the local community—how do you ensure that events leave a positive impact and long-term benefits for the destination?
This year, Elite Travel DMC marks 25 years of operation, and from the very beginning we have seen our role as a bridge between international partners and the local community. Long-term cooperation with hotels, transport providers, venues, and numerous suppliers enables us to plan events responsibly, with an understanding of the destination’s real capacities and needs. We ensure positive impact by involving local partners and using local resources, combined with careful planning that respects the city, its residents, and its cultural heritage. The true value of events becomes visible only when they are meaningfully connected with the local community and the destination’s identity.
Looking to the future of business events in Dubrovnik, where do you see the greatest potential for development, and which opportunities would you especially highlight to organizers who are only now considering the destination?
Even today, after many years on the international business events map, Dubrovnik retains a unique combination of historical heritage, natural beauty, and premium service that is difficult to replicate. Its distinctiveness lies in offering an authentic setting with a strong identity, while simultaneously possessing the knowledge, infrastructure, and experience needed to deliver the most demanding international events.
