In the search for authentic, sustainable, and socially responsible incentive programmes, Dubrovnik is increasingly standing out with an offer that goes beyond classic destination experiences. One of the best examples of this approach is the association DEŠA Dubrovnik, a non-governmental organisation with over 30 years of activity. Through creative and educational programmes, it successfully connects local heritage, the community, and the contemporary needs of the congress and incentive industry.
Incentive experiences with a story and value
Founded in 1993, DEŠA operates as a regional centre for community building and civil society development, with a particular focus on empowering women, encouraging creativity, and preserving the traditions of the Dubrovnik area. Its hub – the Educational and Creative Centre located in the historic setting of the Lazareti complex – provides an ideal backdrop for incentive workshops that offer guests a truly local experience.
The programmes offered by DEŠA are designed as interactive, hands-on experiences for small and medium-sized groups, and are particularly attractive to business event organisers, DMC agencies, and hotels wishing to offer their clients content with added value. By participating in these workshops, guests not only learn about Dubrovnik’s traditions but also actively take part in their preservation and support the socially responsible activities of the local community.
Workshops for making delicious souvenirs in a traditional way
A special place in DEŠA’s offer is held by workshops dedicated to making authentic Dubrovnik sweets and edible souvenirs, which are ideal as short incentive programmes, accompanying activities for congresses, or team-building events.
The candied orange peel workshop, focused on candied orange peel, guides participants through the entire process – from preparing the raw ingredients to the finished product. Alongside stories about the tradition and importance of arancini in Dubrovnik cuisine, each participant takes home their own sweet souvenir at the end of the workshop. A similar format is offered in the workshop on making traditional candied almonds, an indispensable part of local celebrations and customs.
For groups wishing to delve deeper into gastronomic heritage, there is also a workshop dedicated to preparing sweet dough fritters, a traditional sweet made for special occasions. In addition to the practical component, this workshop includes the exchange of recipes, stories, and customs, making it ideal for incentive programmes that aim to encourage socialising and informal communication.
Traditional crafts and creative workshops as a powerful incentive tool
In addition to gastronomic workshops, DEŠA also offers a wide selection of traditional craft workshops that fit perfectly into cultural and creative incentive programme concepts. Particularly noteworthy are the Dubrovnik embroidery workshops, featuring the Konavle, Mljet, and Primorje styles, where participants learn about various techniques, materials, and aesthetic principles, and take home their own handmade piece as a lasting memento.
In spring, especially around Easter, the workshop on weaving palm and olive branches is especially attractive, introducing guests to traditional techniques and the symbolism of this craft. The egg-painting workshop combines traditional and modern decorating techniques and encourages creative expression.
For groups seeking something more contemporary yet still firmly rooted in local tradition, DEŠA offers creative workshops in patchwork and clay modelling with the imprinting of traditional patterns, ideal for relaxed incentive programmes and smaller team-building activities.
The workshops are flexible and adaptable to the interests of the group, the season, and the available time. For larger groups, it is also possible to organise a shorter presentation format that includes an introduction to the association’s work and a demonstration of selected activities.
DEŠA as a partner in sustainable and socially responsible tourism
In the context of growing demand for authentic and sustainable incentive content, DEŠA Dubrovnik represents a valuable resource for the destination and a strong partner for stakeholders in the congress and incentive industry. Their programmes offer not only an experience but also a story – about the people, traditions, and community behind each product.
By including DEŠA workshops in incentive and congress programmes, organisers provide their guests with a unique Dubrovnik experience, while simultaneously contributing to the preservation of local heritage and the development of socially responsible tourism – values that are increasingly becoming the standard in the modern business events industry.
