Banjaluka is becoming an increasingly popular destination for New Year’s celebrations, with accommodation for the “wildest night” of the year almost fully booked.
Hotels across the city report that early bookings have already claimed most available rooms. Demand is also high for “day-rent” apartments, even though many owners have raised prices significantly. In addition to luxury hotel options, the price of renting a private apartment has reached an incredible 1,330 BAM for a day-rent in the Nova Varoš neighborhood.
Among online listings, a day-rent apartment in Rosulje is available for 313 BAM, but on December 31, two people will need to pay 939 BAM to stay there. While there are more affordable options, they too have seen holiday price hikes. In the Borik neighborhood, the price of one apartment has gone from 57 BAM to 331 BAM for New Year’s Eve. In Hisete, another apartment’s rate has surged by nine times its usual price, going from 60 BAM in November to 554 BAM for New Year’s Eve.
Despite the steep prices, the availability of day-rent apartments is dwindling, as many hotels are already fully booked. The “Courtyard by Marriott” hotel reported that all 114 of their rooms have been booked since June, with single rooms priced at 220 BAM and doubles at 300 BAM for New Year’s Eve. The hotel will not host a New Year’s celebration unless rented by a travel agency.
The “Vidović” hotel’s rooms were fully booked months in advance. In collaboration with a travel agency, they pre-booked double rooms at 165 BAM for tourists visiting the city.
The “Cepter Palas” hotel reported that, in partnership with a Slovenian agency, their rooms were fully booked as early as February. Their single rooms are priced at 150 BAM and double rooms at 160 BAM for New Year’s Eve.
“Jelena” hotel noted that reservations started months ago, and all 78 rooms are currently booked. Prices for New Year’s Eve are 30% higher than usual, with single rooms at 165 BAM and doubles at 235 BAM.
The “Bosna” hotel is currently around 70% booked for New Year’s Eve, with reservations beginning a month ago. They offer a special package that includes two nights in a double room and a grand celebration in their Crystal Hall. This package, which includes a welcome drink and a multi-course dinner, costs 682 BAM for two people or 348 BAM per person.
Dragana Vukliš, director of Banjaluka’s Tourist Organization, noted that as of Monday, overall hotel occupancy was over 70%, with another update expected in mid-November.
The city administration has begun preparations for another unforgettable “Banjaluka Winter,” aiming to make the city a favorite destination for many tourists. Plans are also underway for a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration in Banjaluka.
Source: See Srpska
