The photograph is for illustrative purposes.

The City of Varaždin is continuing this year as well with the commendable tradition of organizing free one-day trips to the Adriatic coast for its oldest fellow citizens.

The program is primarily intended for those whose monthly income does not exceed 900 euros, in order to provide them with a quality vacation without additional financial burden. As reported by the portal mirovina.hr, the destination, as last year, is Mošćenička Draga, and in addition to transportation itself, the city administration has also provided a free lunch for all participants.

Preparations for September swimming

The Administrative Department for Social Activities plans to publish an official public call for expressions of interest as early as May. The location was chosen because of the exceptionally positive experiences from previous years and the fact that the destination is close enough for a pleasant journey. Capacity is limited to 350 people, which allows for quality organization and enjoyable socializing by the sea in the postseason period.

Significant budget funds for senior citizens

This initiative represents a concrete investment in the social standard, as last year 24,150 euros were allocated for the same number of beneficiaries. City authorities emphasize that this is a justified expense given that Varaždin systematically cares for the needs of elderly persons. Given the high prices of tourist services, such projects are becoming the only way for part of the population to see the sea at all during the calendar year.

A response to economic challenges and isolation

Surveys conducted among the older population indicate that most Croatian pensioners cannot afford even a short stay on the coast. That is precisely why such organized trips carry high symbolic and practical value, as they directly affect the social inclusion and mental health of citizens. With this move, Varaždin stands out as a community that, through concrete measures, mitigates the consequences of low pensions and rising inflation.

While the tourist season in Croatia is increasingly adapting to more affluent foreign guests, domestic pensioners too often remain on the margins of these developments. The initiative of the City of Varaždin shows that with good organization and clear political will, a sustainable model of social sensitivity can be created that goes beyond mere declarative advocacy for the elderly. Ensuring at least one day at the sea for those who spent decades building this society is not just a budget item, but an act of basic human dignity and social solidarity.