Local Host

The label was designed as a way to identify hosts whose offer combines traditional Croatian hospitality, preserved local customs and business responsibility towards the environment and the community, thus offering guests an authentic experience of accommodation in local homes that has been present in Croatia for decades, and at the same time encouraging the further development of a sustainable tourism offer, which sets Croatia apart on the global tourism market.

The combination of authenticity, hospitality, trust and responsibility is increasingly sought by modern travellers and is an advantage of our tourism offer. Staying with a private rental owner with the ‘Local Host’ label implies that the guest is in for a personal approach and a rich local experience — the host welcomes you as a friend, shares stories about where they grew up, recommends hidden gems and makes you feel relaxed and at home.

The standardised criteria for awarding this label are a guarantee of a proven level of quality, and the emphasis on sustainability guarantees the host’s responsible attitude towards the environment and the experiences and traditions of their local community, and that they are prepared to offer that experience to guests.

The label can be applied for by all providers of hospitality services who, according to the regulations for these services, have the status of a host, provided that they meet the prescribed criteria to be awarded the label, which include the authenticity of the offer, the level of hospitality, environmental awareness, a high-quality approach to guests and the continuous improvement of hospitality skills.

The process is simple and transparent. The applicants complete an on-line self-assessment form via eVisitor. After that, it is verified whether they meet the minimum number of prescribed criteria, and those who do are awarded the ‘Local Host’ label.

Successful applicants receive a label that they can proudly display at the entrance of their rental in the form of a plaque, which will allow guests to recognise them as authentic hosts. The physical label is provided through the tourist board system.

They also receive the label in a digital format so they can use it in digital communications as well. The awarded label has a limited duration (three years) and before it expires, the holder will have to go through the self-assessment process again in order to maintain the quality standard at the high level that is expected.

The ‘Local Host’ label gives its holders a clear advantage on the market — they are highlighted among numerous private rental owners, are able to attract guests looking for an authentic and hospitable experience, benefit from the official visual identity of the label and their offer is highlighted in the promotional activities of the CNTB for source markets and in digital communications. It also provides guidelines for further improving the quality and sustainability of business, all with the aim of creating a network of reliable and recognisable hosts who offer their guests traditional Croatian hospitality within their own household.

Feel free to e-mail us with any questions at: vasdomacin@htz.hr.