DESTINATIONS beauties f


rom the coastlines of Croatia to the mountains of Romania, the beaches of Bulgaria to the ski slopes of Slovenia, the Balkans pack in


some impressive variety – and for clients who’ve already ticked off Europe’s better-known spots, this underrated group of countries offers a lot to discover. That’s even more relevant now as many clients seek a socially-distanced, crowd-free escape, where they can have the undulating landscapes and azure seas to themselves, and bag a bargain too. So where should you start if you’re looking to switch-sell?


THE CITY BREAK Where: Belgrade, Serbia


From Berlin to Budapest, Europe isn’t short of history- filled cities, but if clients have already ticked off the classic spots, it’s time to suggest Belgrade. Split into Old and New areas, the former


Yugoslavian capital combines Soviet architecture and Ottoman influences with a vibrant nightlife scene that sees eclectic bars spill onto its streets and moored river barges transform into clubs come nightfall. But it’s not only about the partying. Attractions include the Kalemegdan Fortress, an old citadel where locals gather to watch the sunset; the Church of St Sava, one of Europe’s biggest Orthodox temples; and the Dorćol neighbourhood, once the city’s Jewish quarter and now home to quirky cafes, vintage shops


and some of Belgrade’s best street art. Book it: Regent Holidays offers four nights’ B&B at the three-star Hotel Argo from £820 per person, based on two sharing with flights, transfers, a city tour and two excursions. regent-holidays.co.uk


THE FAMILY GETAWAY Where: Bulgaria


For families after a beachy break away from the Med, Bulgaria’s Black Sea beckons with its sandy beaches, child-friendly attractions and excellent- value resorts – and it’s not only about Sunny Beach. Alan Cross, head of trade at Jet2holidays,


recommends Pomorie for an alternative resort that still offers plenty to keep families entertained, with accommodation options to suit every budget. For a five-star property offering clients plenty of bang for their buck, Cross suggests Wave Resort, which backs on to its own private beach and boasts an on-site water park as well as eight pools, a spa, gym and gardens. “There’s a jam-packed daily entertainment programme including professional shows, water-based activities and team sports,” he says. “And when it comes to dining, the resort caters for the whole family, with four restaurants and five


snack bars to choose from.” Book it: A week costs from £799 per person, based on two adults and two children sharing, with transfers and flights from Stansted on August 6. jet2holidays.com


THE HIKING HOLIDAY Where: Albania


The Balkans boast endless options for active summer escapes, but for an especially underrated spot, look to Albania, where almost three-quarters of the landscape is made up of mountains. For those wanting to take in the best of the peaks, suggest a guided tour. Wild Frontiers has an eight-day Walking in Northern Albania itinerary


² travelweekly.co.uk 15 APRIL 2021 35 SWITCH-SELLING | CROATIA & THE BALKANS


For clients who have been there and done that with all the usual hotspots, switch-sell to the oft-underrated Balkans, writes Laura French


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