Miroslav Chonevski — "Grk", owner of Iguana, has died

Miroslav Chonevski — known by the nickname "Grk" — has died. Chonevski was a long-time figure in North Macedonia's tourism industry and the owner of the travel agency Iguana, a brand associated with organized summer travel abroad for decades.

The news of his passing was met with sorrow by colleagues, friends and many people who worked with him over the years. Travel professionals and former partners recalled his lengthy engagement with the sector and his role in building package-tour offers for Macedonian holidaymakers.

Chonevski and Iguana belonged to a generation of travel agents who helped expand access to foreign travel for citizens of North Macedonia. As international trips became more affordable, he was part of the group that turned destinations such as Greece into routine summer options for thousands of travellers.

On social media, friends and acquaintances described him by his character and direct style; some called him a "Skopje legend" and shared photos and memories of moments spent with him. The agency where he spent most of his professional life published an emotional message: "We lost the helmsman, but not the compass! Thank you for the idea, for the effort, for all the years spent together, we are happy to have been and still be your pupils. The father of #Iguana will be missed."

The National Association of Travel Agencies also announced that it received the news with deep sorrow and that Chonevski's work and contribution to the tourism industry will not be forgotten: "His contribution to the tourism industry and the memory of him will remain among his colleagues and friends," the association said.

Funeral and legacy

The final farewell for Miroslav Chonevski is scheduled for August 11, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in the chapel in Butel. He leaves behind a professional legacy and many colleagues, collaborators and friends who are now paying tribute to a man who helped shape modern agency tourism in the country.

Photo: press material from the event