Balatons are lucky: the price of a Croatian vacation is frozen! ❄️

Accommodation providers on the Lake Balaton can be worried before the start of the season: due to the significant strengthening of the forint, the prices of holidays in Croatia have not increased in forints in a year, and may even be cheaper. This particularly affects the settlements of the southern coast, such as Siófok or Balatonlelle, where many local families and holiday home owners use to travel to the Croatian coast as an alternative. 🏖️

According to the Telex G7 analysis, compared to last year, the exchange rate of the forint improved by 15-20 percent against the euro and the Croatian kuna, while inflation in Croatia increased nominal prices, but this was extinguished in the forint. Thus, an apartment rental or a restaurant bill in Zadar or Split seems cheaper to Balaton guests today than in 2023. At Lake Balaton, this means competition: many of the annual 5-6 million tourists around the lake vacillate between the two destinations, mainly on the southern and western shores.

As a local effect, the owners of Balaton's restaurants and boarding houses can count on fewer reservations if the strength of the forint holds. Wellness and yacht guests in Balatonfüred or Keszthely are less affected, but massage and buffet operators on the south coast may feel the pressure. Good news for vacationers, however: if you choose Croatia, there will be more for the Balaton programs than boat trips or beaches. According to experts, this could bring price competition to Lake Balaton, favoring domestic tourists. 💶

Before the season, it is worth watching the exchange rates - Balaton tourism is flexible, but the Croatian appeal is strong now. Local entrepreneurs are advised to protect themselves with promotions to keep guests on the shore of the lake.

Source: Telex.hu G7