International Yacht Vacations & Charters Magazine reports

The New Zagreb-Split Highway officially open to traffic
On Sunday, July 26th 2005, the Zagreb-Split highway was officially opened to the public when the last stretch of the highway, from Vrpolje to Pirovac, as well as the Mala Kapela tunnel, was completed. The newly built Zagreb-Split highway, with a total length of 236 miles, creates an easier and quicker connection between northern and southern Croatia. It will take a traveler about three and a half hours by car, which is half the time it used to take on the “old” road. The road toll will cost 157 kuna one-way (approx. $25.00). This highway is really important to Croatia for numerous reasons. It is a strategic point for economic growth and tourism; it gives tourists a better opportunity of seeing everything that Croatia has to offer. The highway continues to be built all the way to Dubrovnik. It is expected to be finished in a few years. For more information contact cntony@earthlink.net

The unique “sea-pipe organ” plays in Zadar
Zadar has completed a 230 foot long underwater pipe organ that plays music as the tide comes inland. The organ consists of 35 large pipes that differ in length, width and slope, through which air flows and with this plays unique tones in which those strolling on the waterfront can enjoy. A pair of humpback whales also swam to Zadar to hear the soothing music of Zadar’s sea-pipe organ. For more information contact cntony@earthlink.net

56th Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July 10 -August 25)
The internationally well-known musical, theatrical and dance festival is happening in the unique historical stage-setting of the city of Dubrovnik. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is one of the oldest and the most prestigious members of the European Music Festivals Association. For more info visit www.dubrovnik-festival.hr

51st Split Summer Festival (July 14 - August 14)
During the annual Split Summer Festival, the city becomes an open-air stage with night-time opera and concerts. The Festival offers drama, music, dancing, as well as street, popular and elite performances. The festival combines traditional and contemporary culture, both Croatian and European, with performances by national and international artists. For more info visit www.splitsko-ljeto.hr

39th International Folklore Festival, Zagreb (July 20 – 24)
In 1966 The International Folklore Festival was established and since then Zagreb since been a vivacious meeting point for members of different nations and cultures, a stage for their music, dance, and other heritage. For more info visit www.msf.hr 

Histria Festival in the amphitheater, Pula
The biggest town on the Istrian peninsula, Pula, is once again bringing unforgettable performances in its 3,000 year old amphitheater. This summer, you can enjoy breathtaking performances by Andrea Bocelli, Royal Russian Balet, Anastacia and many others. For more info visit www.histriafestival.com

45th Musical Events in St. Donat, (July 5th-August 8)
This international musical festival has been held since 1960 in the Church of St. Donat and other historical locations in the City of Zadar. Performers include renowned musicians from Croatia and abroad. For more info visit www.kuz.hr 

Rapska fjera – The Days of the Middle Ages (July 25-27, island of Rab)
“Rapska fjera” is a traditional and authentically costumed event during which the Old Town of Rab is transformed into a medieval town. Around 300 costumed citizens of Rab show the guests through medieval crafts how people during the middle ages on the island were working, eating and celebrating. The program lasts for three days and takes place in the evening hours. For more info visit www.rab-supetarska.com 

International knighthood games festival on Korcula (July - August)
Festival of traditional sword dances from Korcula has the emphasis on preserving old dances and indigenous culture of the island of Korcula. The festival takes place in the medieval atmosphere and surroundings of Korcula’s Old Town with various performances of traditional sword dances from the island: the Moreska, Kumpanjija and Mostra, as well as guest performaces by international associations and knight societies from other parts of Croatia. For more info visit www.korcula.net  

Motovun Film Festival (July 25-29)
This festival is a five-day marathon with daily film screenings from 10 a.m. until 4 a.m. The program is entirely dedicated to small cinematography and independent productions. In addition to an abundance of films, lectures, presentations and exhibitions, the Motovun Film Festival is also known for its great concerts and parties. For more info visit www.motovunfilmfestival.com

49th Summer Festival, island of Krk (July 22 - August 26)
The program of the Summer Festival in Krk encompasses opera, drama, monologues, ballet, concert performances (from early to contemporary music) and folklore, while performers will be renowned Croatian and foreign artists. Performances will be taking place both indoors and on open stages in the old city centre of the City of Krk. For more info visit www.krk.hr