Hotel rooms in Split are scarce in general, and reasonably priced hotel rooms are almost nonexistent, though private accommodations are fairly easy to secure. Split never has been known as a vacation destination in Croatia. Rather, its reputation has been that of a gateway to the Dalmatian coast, and as the birthplace of such sports stars as Tony Kukoc (Chicago Bulls) and Goran Ivanisevic (tennis). Until recently not much attention was paid to tourist lodging in Split, but that attitude is changing. Existing hotels are renovating, small boutique hotels are entering the market, and one large luxury chain has opened a resort complex on the site of a historic landmark hotel. The socialist-drab Marjan Hotel is reopening as a Hilton.
360 Degrees of Beauty -- The island of Solta, 35 minutes across the water from Split, will be the site of Europe's first rotating hotel. According to World Architecture News, the hotel will be constructed on an axis that will make 1 1/2 complete circles daily to give all guests a sea view for at least part of their stay. The island resort development site is a hillside olive grove that allows views across the bay. No estimated date of completion was available at press time.
