ACCOMMODATION CAPACITIES ALMOST COMPLETELY FULL

BANJA LUKA, DECEMBER 28 /SRNA/ – Accommodation capacities in Banja Luka are almost completely booked, confirming strong interest among visitors in celebrating the New Year holidays, the Banja Luka Tourism Organisation told SRNA.

Independent professional associate Milica Radović told SRNA that Banja Luka has 2,321 hotel-type beds, as well as more than 500 registered private accommodation units, popularly known as apartment per day rentals. “Accommodation prices vary depending on type and category - from luxury facilities to more affordable options. According to currently available data, for accommodation that is still available, prices for two people for two New Year’s Eve nights range from 150 to 600 euros,” Radović said. She has noted there is traditionally strong interest during the New Year holidays from tourists from the region, with the main reasons for visiting being the rich entertainment programme and concerts, with a special emphasis on the organised open-air New Year’s Eve celebration, which has become one of the city’s most recognisable holiday events. “Precisely this event, along with performances by popular regional music artists, represents a strong ‘magnet’ for visitors,” Radović said. Radović says that tourists are also attracted by the overall festive atmosphere of the city, enhanced by the winter market, ice rink, and a diverse programme within the events “Banja Luka Winter” and “Zimzobal,” which take place in Petar Kočić Park and at Krajina Square. “Special interest is also being recorded in the gastronomic offer, highlighted by the Banja Luka ćevapi, as well as the nightlife in cafés, restaurants, and nightclubs,” Radović said. Compared to larger cities in the region and Europe, Banja Luka, Radović said, remains a price-competitive destination, both in terms of accommodation and the offer of food and entertainment. “In addition to entertainment, guests show interest in touring the city centre, the Kastel Fortress, museums, the Cathedral Church of Christ the Savior, and the Banski Dvor, as well as taking short trips to the surrounding area,ssuch as visits to the Trappist monastery ‘Mariastern,’ Krupa na Vrbasu, the ‘Ljubačke Dolina’ Ethno Village, and other attractive sites, especially as part of organised group visits,” Radović stated.