TURIZAM 385 Paul Bradbury

Guest Paul BradburyHosted by Goran RihtarićMay 3, 2026

Paul Bradbury

About this episode

What you'll hear in this conversation

Paul Bradbury arrived in Croatia and, like many, fell in love. Unlike many, he stayed, built a media company, Total Croatia News, and became a distinctive voice for the country's tourism industry. His perspective is rooted in a deep appreciation for the Croatian way of life, even as he challenges its conventional wisdom. He considers himself "extremely rich" in lifestyle, family, and purpose, despite claiming to have earned more at 25 than he does now. This conversation explores the surprising economics of a life chosen for joy over pure financial gain, and why Croatia, despite its perceived challenges, might be one of the most remarkable places in the world for remote workers. Bradbury argues that the country's true value lies not in being cheap, but in its unique blend of culture, safety, and authentic experiences. He outlines a strategy for Croatia to become a global leader in experiential tourism, attracting a new generation of visitors who seek more than just sun and sea.

Insights from the conversation

What to take from this episode

Paul Bradbury’s claim that he earned more at 25 working 16-hour days in a job he didn't enjoy than he does now in Croatia. Financial wealth isn't the sole measure of richness; a life of joy, family, and purpose in a remarkable country can represent a different, more fulfilling kind of abundance.

The host's skepticism that Croatia can attract digital nomads because it's "not that cheap to live in" and "very difficult to get rich." Competing on *value* rather than just *price* is the smarter approach for attracting remote workers; Croatia offers a "very high" quality of product, culture, and safety that cheaper destinations lack.

The World Championships of Olive Picking in Postira on Brač, where a digital nomad team called themselves the "Extra Virgin Digital Nomad Olive Picking Team" and gained international media attention. Niche, hyper-local events can be powerful magnets for experience-seeking remote workers and tourists, generating organic media reach far beyond traditional advertising.

Paul Bradbury's new "Cromads" platform, designed to connect digital nomads to five pillars of authentic Croatian experiences, from making silk in Kornati to visiting the Rimac Factory. A country can become a global leader in authentic experiences by proactively identifying and packaging its unique cultural, natural, and innovative offerings for a new audience.

Digital nomads coming to Croatia for the first time describe Zagreb and the country as a "remarkable hidden gem." The perception of a destination by early adopters of a new tourism segment often reveals untapped value that locals might overlook, highlighting the importance of external validation.

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