MONTENEGRO THE LAND OF THE BLACK MOUNTAINS
The Republic of Montenegro is a small country along the central Mediterranean and within Southeastern Europe. It was once part of the former Yugoslav Federation. Montenegro borders Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia, and the Adriatic Sea. Its capital is Podgorica, and has a population of less than 700,000 people. Montenegro is a diverse and tolerant country because of its multi-ethnic, multilingual, and multi-religious composition. It is a country known for its spectacular mountains, gorgeous beaches and resorts, glacial lakes, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, Kotor. Montenegro is an inexpensive, safe, and clean country. Please continue reading to see what it is like to visit Montenegro, the land of the black mountains.
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MONTENEGRO THE LAND OF THE BLACK MOUNTAIN
Montenegro referred to as the land of the black mountain since the 15th century. Because of the vast amount of dark mountain forests that cover its landmass. For example, breaking up the word “Montenegro” in parts says it all, “monte” means mountain, and “negro” means black, hence Montenegro or Crna Gora (Crne Gore) in Montenegrin.
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MY PERSPECTIVE ON BLACK MOUNTAIN, ITS NAME, ETC.
From the many road trips I took throughout Montenegro, I would have never called it Montenegro, preferably Monteblanco (white mountain) haha. Because The reason was all the never-ending mountains were all white or greyish, and no, they were not snow-covered. They all looked like white limestone, inside and out. This was the first thing I noticed about Montenegro.
Do not get it twisted; I am not criticizing. The mountains are gorgeous. While I journeyed on the bus, my wandering thoughts took me to the time as far back as possible in early ages, when leaders, generations of landowners, or whoever was distributing the lands. I thought maybe the one they disliked the most, got, from what they saw at a distance, the rockiest, mountainous and assumedly, the unfertile portion called Montenegro. Haha. If true, little did they know that Montenegro would have developed into such a beautiful country, with tourism being a prime income earner.
Because as the bus drove past the mountains, I wondered where were the fertile lands for crops, etc. I do not know if it was because I visited in the winter when there was hardly any vegetation, but all the mountains looked dry, white, and somewhat loose. On further observation, from as high up the mountain as possible to the base of the public roads, one can see a mesh or a sort of netting covering these mountains. I assume to keep loose rocks from dislodging and causing damage to pedestrians and vehicular traffic below.
Montenegro is an extremely mountainous country. Similar to a few years ago when I entered Nis and Pirot in Serbia. Some roads to many cities in and exiting Montenegro passed through the mountains. So during the journey, it was as if inside a long, dark tunnel. These were roads cut through mountains. SOOO COOL!
ENTRY & EXIT FROM PODGORICA/MONTENEGRO
I entered Montenegro by land, with one of the regular buses from Macedonia (mine was filled), and exited Montenegro by plane. Even though the bus ride was about seven hours long, I totally enjoyed it and wished for a repeat. Honestly, I prefer road trips to flying any day. For those wishing to do the same route, you will be happy to know that it stops several times throughout the journey. The first pit stop was at the Macedonian border to get your departure stamp from the country. The other pit stops were for washroom breaks and snacks, and the last pit stop was at the Montenegro border.
On reaching the Montenegro border, all passengers had to go through the usual drill. We all had to exit the bus, leave everything behind, and line up for processing, where we presented ourselves before the officers for passport and visa verification, etc. It was a smooth interaction. They verified and stamped the passports, then we were on our way to Podgorica. At the end of the journey (the Podgorica Bus Station) we took a taxi to our respective accommodations. I hope this information helps any newbie traveller who wishes to do the same.
Montenegro the land of the black Mountains Cont....
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ABOUT PODGORICA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Montenegro has two international airports, one in Tivat and the other in the capital. For those travelling to Montenegro for the first time, here is pertinent information. The Podgorica Airport is not a 24-hour airport. It closes around 9:00 p.m. or after the last flight, and reopens at 6:00 a.m. The airline check-in counter opens 120 minutes before the flight and closes 30 minutes before. So you spend limited time at the airport before embarkation.
Therefore, those who plan to overnight at this airport for an early morning flight instead of paying for a room or an extra night at an accommodation (a common sight of passengers sleeping at many airports). Forget that thought! From inquiries I made at the airport, I learned that during the low travel season (November to March), when there are fewer visitors, the airport opens and closes at the aforementioned times. Whereas, outside of this period, when there is an increase in visitor arrivals, especially in summer, it opens at 5:00 a.m. and closes after the last flight, which is usually no later than midnight.
Podgorica International Airport is tiny. From the airline’s check-in counter, through security check, to the departure area took less than 10 minutes. Because all departments were on the same level. Then, to exit the airport and board the plane, it was as simple as opening the door and walking on the tarmac to the plane.
MY EXPERIENCE AT PODGORICA AIRPORT
I must reiterate that Podgorica Airport is not a 24-hour airport. Sadly,, I learned this the hard way on the morning of my departure from Montenegro. Usually, I like to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before my flight. This way, I am sure I am on time, and I can use the airline’s scale to check the weight of my luggage and reorganize it accordingly if necessary. Then have a light breakfast and relax until check-in.
Well, my flight was 7:25 a.m. Therefore, I left my hotel to arrive 3 hours before my flight. I took a pre-arranged taxi and arrived at what looked like a tightly shut house with Christmas lights and decorations adorning it. So, I asked the driver, “Are you sure this is the airport?” He replied, “Yes, yes”. Apparently, he did not know the airport opening hours, and it appeared it was the first time he was driving someone to the airport that early.
He went to the door and pushed it, and shockingly it was locked, without security inside or out, to assist with any questions. As a result, I had to return to my hotel and pay the driver twice more for return trips from/back to the airport..
The plan was then to return to the airport at least 2 hours before the flight, which is standard time. Upon returning to the airport, approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes before the flight, I still had to wait, along with one other traveller. Because we did not know the airport was opening 1 hour and 25 minutes before my flight, which was 6:00 a.m., ..how odd! When they opened, a mad rush of people suddenly filled the small check-in area, and it confused most because the airlines’ check-in staff was not present, and no one knew what to do.
The check-in counter area occupied a tiny space that looked like it catered to three airlines. I have never previously experienced such a disorganized situation in any other airport. They squished everyone together in such a tight space, shoulder to shoulder. It shocked me. Those of us using this airport for the first time were unsure of what to do or where to go but to stand around and wait. Worst yet, the area was unlit. They never switched on the lights in this area until the airline’s staff arrived. We were all practically standing in the darkness, with a glimmer of light from the far end of the airport. Then, about one hour before my flight, I joined a very tight queue, and eventually, I checked in
Nonetheless, after a security check, I spent little time at the airport and boarded my flight on time.
The TSA screeners at Podgorica Airport were such sweethearts. They were pleasant and friendly and joined the list of least-paranoid and prudent TSA screeners worldwide. At this airport, they allowed all travellers to keep on their jackets, shoes, and belts. No one had to remove items from their bags, including laptops, which they sent through the scanner. Then there was the bottled water issue. As I was about to discard it in the bin, the officer signalled me saying, “No it’s ok, you can pass with it”. This was a quick and easy procedure, then it was on to the departure gate, just a few feet away.
TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO/FROM DOWNTOWN PODGORICA
There are only two ways (besides renting a car) to get to the city of Podgorica airport and vice versa. They are taxi and train. Note that there are no buses from the airport to the city, nor does the Uber taxi service operate in Montenegro. The train is the cheapest and was between 1.00 – 2.00 Euros and takes about 13 minutes to/from the airport. It is also the most inconvenient, and I will not recommend it. Because you will have a 15-minute walk from/to the airport/station (it does not run directly inside the airport).
However, I will recommend using taxis only because they are the fastest, most convenient and reasonably priced. The journey in a taxi is 10 – 15 minutes to the city center and costs 10.00 – 12.00 Euros. Other taxi options are NasTaxiApp (used a few times) and TeslaGoApp (both similar to Uber). I used the TeslaGoAp the most, and (yes, they are real Tesla cars).
ABOUT THE CITY OF PODGORICA (pronounced - pod-guh-reet-suh)
Podgorica is the capital and the largest city in Montenegro. It is in the lower part of the Moraca River, at the bottom of the Gorica Hill. Consequently, it is where the name Podgorica, “meaning under the small hill”, originated. Some may still refer to it as Titograd, and the locals as Titograds. Because before 1946, it was called Podgorica but changed to Titograd during the period 1946 – 1992. However, post this period, it regained its original name, Podgorica.
The city’s architecture is modern, classic, and reminiscent of its history during the Ottoman Empire’s rule. Podgorica is clean, laid-back, safe, and green. However, the nightlife was almost nonexistent, except for some cafes and restaurant hangout spots. There are pedestrian walkways (perfect for evening strolls) and cycle tracks sparsely throughout the city. They coloured them with lookout points so they were hard to miss. It is either Montenegrins take care of their own or because of the cold weather, but I saw no beggars or homeless people in the city.
Podgorica can boast of its six rivers (Ribnica, Moraca, Zeta, Sitnica, Mareza, and Cijevna). Ribnica and Moraca flow through the center of the city. The Moraca is the largest (overall, Tara River is the longest river in Montenegro). The scenery of the river flowing through the city gives it life and a serene and eco-friendly feel. The locals said summertime, the river is almost always dry, Therefore, I was happy to visit during winter and the low travel season.
Montenegro the land of the black Mountains Cont....
From my observation, the streets were always sparse of locals, even in the city center (as one can see in my Podgorica photos). I found that rather strange because of the season and upcoming holidays. I reasoned that maybe it was because most locals own vehicles, like being at home or heading out of the city for a getaway to other cities during the holidays.
I would not say the city is boring, but for those who love non-stop action, Podgorica is not for you. I would suggest heading to Budva, Kotor, or even Tivat. Maybe during the prime tourist season, Podgorica is possibly peppier. However, even though it was not bustling or had more activities, it did not bother me because I prefer peaceful cities. I was there during the holidays, but even with the Christmas decorations, I did not get the festive feel of the season. Similar, to ringing in the new year, the city was quiet, except for some fireworks but no special activities. That is because the happening place to ring in 2023 was in Budva. It is a pity I did not stay in Budva for the celebrations, I had to view it on television.
BUDVA, KOTOR, or TIVAT! - Which should you visit?
To all visiting Podgorica, Montenegro, I will encourage you not to leave without visiting Kotor, Budva, or Tivat. If time permits, spend a day or two in a couple of the cities or take a day trip and soak up their ambiance, with each offering something unique and enjoyable. The concentration of nightlife (not so much Tivat) in Montenegro is in these popular coastal areas. Montenegro also has many more equally delightful and gorgeous coastal cities besides these, such as; Bar, Cetinje, Ulcin, Petrovac, and others. These three are my recommendations and are also not too far from Podgorica.
Each offering something distinctive for everyone’s desires. Whether it is partying, gorgeous beaches, or just tranquility, all three have one thing in common. They are all breathtaking. The cool thing is all three cities are within a 15 – 30 minutes drive of each other.
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BUDVA
BUDVA - The Party City
Do you love the luxurious life, partying all night long, enjoying live shows, and living it up? How about and hang out day and night on one of the thirty lovely beaches? If your answer is yes, then Budva is for you. What I saw there, especially the beach and coast area, reminded me of my visit to Hout’s Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, and the rest of it is like a mini Miami strip.
What should you expect to see and enjoy in Budva? Expect upscale nightclubs, restaurants, private pools, cafes, bars, spas, resorts, and gorgeous beaches, and enjoy some delicious foods. Not only does it cater to those who seek the royal lifestyle and 5-star treatment, but also those on a smaller budget. Just expect to have fun, fun, fun!! My visit to Budva was during the winter when it was too cold to enter into the sea, yet the beaches were overflowing with people. So imagine and be prepared for what you can expect in the summer.
As previously mentioned, Kotor cruise port and Tivat Airport are nearby, so there is no need to use the Podgorica Airport. As expected, any popular tourist spot is always a bit more expensive, so Budva is no exception. Nonetheless, it is still in an affordable range for all. I was in Budva on New Year’s Eve, and it was a festive atmosphere. There were live bands, and visitors packed all restaurants, hangout spots, and bars. It was a big party scene. Budva is the place to be for nightlife and entertainment, and best of all the accommodation is within range, even for the budget traveller. See booking.com for the best hotel deals in Budva, Montenegro.
KOTOR - Cruise Port, Nightlife and Historical Sites
If you are searching for excitement, adventure, nightlife, beaches, lakes, etc. Kotor is a city to visit. It has an advantage because it has a cruise port. Therefore, it offers all cruise ship passengers and visitors alike, easy access to the city. So those who might wish to soak up the ambiance and enjoy the city for the day can easily do so. As previously mentioned, the other two cities are nearby so one can easily make it an adventurous day by also visiting them. It is also a good starting point if you want to explore the rest of Montenegro because they offer many trips and excursions from Kotor to the rest of the island.
Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built between the 12th and 14th centuries. I did not visit Kotor, but I understand it is the center of the action, similar to Budva, but with Budva having an edge. This coastal town comprises many beautiful beach sides, fortresses, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, street cafes, bars, beachfront hotels, resorts, old town, and lots of nearby lakes, bays, and small islands to explore. However, Kotor has no long beaches, just little ones scattered along the bays, most of which are private beaches.
TIVAT
TIVAT - Beauty, Tranquility, and High-end Shopping
For those seeking tranquility, and relaxation away from the crowds, then you should visit Tivat. It is perfect for unwinding with the option to hang out and enjoy a chill nightlife, lake-side drinks, dining, evening strolls along the coast, and posh shopping. Tivat is one of the youngest cities in Montenegro. It is a nice getaway from the party scene, but simultaneously, it is not a boring city.
It is a scenic, beautiful, upscale city. Tivat is quiet on one side, but on the marina side called Porto, it is lively and has breathtaking views. It somewhat reminded me of Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, the birthplace of Mother Teresa, just simply outstanding. This gorgeous city does not have an Old Town like Budva and Kotor but has the second International airport in Montenegro, besides the one in the capital. This is an additional benefit because visitors do not have to use the one in Podgorica and then drive to this city. The coast view and surroundings, especially at sunset, was priceless.
Montenegro the land of the black Mountains Cont....
Porto Montenegro Marina is a stunning, tasteful, modern marina with beautiful boardwalks, piers, expensive yachts, and high-end shopping stores with luxurious and popular brands. It seems they cater to the posh and boujie shoppers. The prices at the restaurants are higher than in Podgorica but yet affordable. This marina is one of the most amazing marinas I have seen in Europe.
A note to travellers, be careful with the taxis at the Tivat bus station, The taxi fares are higher than in Podgorica, and for less than a five-minute ride from the bus station to Porto, the driver charged double the price paid to another driver on return to the same station.
INFORMATION YOU MUST KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT MONTENEGRO
- The languages spoken – Montenegrin (official language), Croatian, Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, and English (minor).
- Official currency – Euro (even though they use the euro they do not print them, they import euros from other countries).
- Montenegro is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Lake Skardar is one of the largest bird reserves in Europe. It is home to over 270 bird species, including storks, egrets, Dalmatian and Majestic pelicans, herons, and falcons.
- The Stara Maslina is one of the oldest olive trees worldwide. It is in Stari Bar, Montenegro. It is at least 2000 years old.
- Montenegrins are some of the tallest people worldwide. The average height of men is 1.83 cm (6ft).
- Mausoleum of Peter II Petrovic Njegos is the world’s highest Mausoleum. It is located 13 km from Centinje, at a height of 1,660 meters on the Jezerski Peak.
- Montenegro gained its independence from Serbia in June 2006. This makes it the 3rd-youngest country in the world and the 2nd-youngest in Europe (Kosovo is the youngest country in Europe).
- Tourism, aluminum, steel, and food processing are Montenegro’s vital industries.
- Montenegro has a 99% high literacy rate.
- In 1946, when Montenegro was part of Yugoslavia, Titograd (Tito City) was the former name of the capital. However, after dismantling Yugoslavia, they renamed the capital Podgorica in 1992.
- Montenegro has over 117 beaches and is also a popular tourist destination during summer. They boast of small hidden ones and even pink pebble beaches.
- Sveti Stefan is the most popular destination in Montenegro. It is a 15-minute drive from Budva. In the 50s, it was Marilyn Monroe’s favourite getaway destination.
- Montenegro has about 70% Orthodox Christians and 20% Muslims.
- Montenegrins (Orthodox) celebrate Christmas on January 7th instead of December 25, and Old/New Year on January 13th/14th. Additionally, they observe Easter a week after others in the Western world.
- Similar to North Macedonia, Montenegro celebrates Christmas with a special tradition. The Orthodox Christians have a Christmas Eve tradition, where they bake bread with a coin wrapped in foil inside, (referred to as Maznik with coin). The family member who gets the piece with the coin, will receive good luck throughout the year.
- Montenegro has four UNESCO World Heritage Sites; the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor and Durmitor National Park (located in the northern part of the country The Stecci Medieval Tombstones and Graveyards, and the Venetian Works of Defence.
- More than 60% of Montenegro has peaks higher than 1000 meters, with Zla Kolata being the highest at 2,534 meters above sea level.
- River Bojana is the only river in the world that flows upstream because of its geographical configuration. It also has two gorges.
- On June 26, 2006, Montenegro became the 192nd member of the UN (United Nations) and is a member of NATO.
- Montenegro has an upper-middle-income economy and is 48th on the Human Development Index worldwide.
- Ostrog Monastery in Montenegro is one of the largest Orthodox shrines in the world.
- In 1987, Brad Pitt debuted as the lead actor in the movie “The Dark Side of the Sun”, filmed in Kotor, Montenegro. Kotor is a medieval town dating back to before Christ walked on Earth.
- Montenegro, even though a small country, has five airports. Two are international airports, and three are military.
- Tara River Canyon aka Tara River Gorge, in Montenegro, is the deepest and largest canyon in Europe.
ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF MONTENEGRO AND SECURITY
Most people in Montenegro are Montenegrins, and a small percentage are Serbs. The locals I interacted with were pleasant, helpful, and very laid-back. Although they do not smile too often, seem very contented, outgoing, and friendly, especially those in Budva (I guess being party central, they are more jovial). The first noticeable thing about Montenegrins is that they are very tall. Honestly, they “burst my bubble”. Usually, when I am in Europe, I always stand out and get compliments because of my height, but not in Montenegro. Both men and women are very tall, and many taller than me.
The second observation about Montenegrins was they do not seem like “get up and go” type of people. In fact, from the taxi drivers to most of the stores that remained closed even after the 3-day public holiday was a good indicator that they have a somewhat lackadaisical attitude regarding work or making money. I felt they preferred to be at home with their families or on vacation...just my thoughts.
Montenegro the land of the black Mountains Cont....
In most countries, taxi drivers are on the hustle and will almost beg you to get into their cars, but not in Montenegro. It was a daunting task to get a taxi in the city, not that they were scarce. They just never stopped. I did not ride in any of the regular taxis The majority of times when I saw them they were empty and never honked their horns to solicit passengers, and neither did they stop when flagged down.
Whether or not they were government-owned or private, I do not know. Nonetheless, I quickly realized, to avoid stress, the best and easiest way to get around the city was to download taxi apps (Nas and Tesla Go). Both, I might add, were very efficient. I recommend Tesla taxis because not only were they real Tesla cars, but they were also always on time, had pleasant drivers, were clean, and the price was always reasonable.
Another thing I noticed was most places were closed on Sundays and weekdays by 4:00 pm. Twice, I recalled, trying to catch the souvenir store in the city open, but it seemed like it closed at 4:00 pm on the dot. I was there during New years, which came with a 3-day long holiday, which meant all businesses would be closed, including supermarkets, malls, shops, etc.
The only people I saw out trying to hustle were Albanians peddling fruits and vegetables (very industrious people (whom I truly admire). To my amazement, after the completion of the three days, many stores and shops remained closed. Some declared a 5-day closure from the signs posted on their doors. Tivat was also a perfect example of this. Except for bars and restaurants, all the stores were closed. It was the first country I have ever visited where I made the statement; ”the locals dislike money”, ha!
In fact, I met a Montenegrin lady on my flight who collaborated with what I had initially presumed. During our chat, she asked my thoughts about the country and its people. I told her about my experiences, and she said, “ yes you can say it, we are lazy people”, haha. I did not say it. She did. She continued that if they can turn a 2-day holiday into five days, they will find ways to do so (this I completely understood because in my country it is the same). Hi Tina, if you are reading this article.
It seems Montenegrins are holding fast to and living by their locally made-up commandments. I did not need to hear or see them to believe they lived by them 100%. Here are the three commandments;
1. “If you see someone resting, help him.” Hahahahaha
2. “Love your bed as you love thyself .”
3 “If you have the urge to work, sit, be quiet, and wait, and in due time, it will pass.” Smh.
You have got to love these people. Life is short! To the Montenegrins, I say, do whatever is best for you unless it affects your health and pocket. I am almost sure they have lower stress levels because of these commandments and approach to life. I saw no beggars, so it must mean they care for their own.
Regarding security, Montenegro was quite safe. I heard of no robberies, murders, etc. I felt safe on the buses to other cities and while sightseeing day and night in the cities I visited.
HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Montenegro is inexpensive, especially compared to many other European countries. However, it is more expensive than some of its neighbouring regions, such as Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, Croatia, and Turkey, to name a few. Nonetheless, it is still a budget-friendly country, including accommodation, meals, public transport, and even taxis.
One can get excellent accommodation in the city center for as low as 30.00 USD per night or lower (apartments and guest houses are best) See booking.com for the best deals in Podgorica, Montenegro. Meals can be as low as 20.00 USD per day in an inexpensive restaurant or even less if you visit the supermarket and purchase breakfast items and prepare breakfast at a fraction of the restaurant cost.
Remember, those were the price ranges in Podgorica in the low travel season. In touristy cities like Budva, Kotor, and Tivat, expect to pay a bit more in the high travel season, especially during the summer when there is an influx of visitors.
Using a taxi to get around in the city is most common, for as low as 3.00 – 5.00 Euros. The public buses to other cities were also reasonable, well organised, clean, efficient buses with excellent service and affordable ticket prices.
Montenegro the land of the black Mountains Cont....
ABOUT MONTENEGRO'S CUISINES
Traditional Montenegrin cuisines have influence from different regions in the country, the lake, mountains, and coastal regions. Each has a difference in flavour and ingredients. For example, the mountainous region provides potatoes, vegetables, and meats such as pork, beef, lamb, and dairy products. The coastal cuisines comprise mainly seafood, fruits, and vegetables, and the lake, freshwater fish including carp and trout (one of the many reasons I love it there, the abundnace of seafood which reminded me of Cyprus…delish). All come together to make their dishes interesting, super delicious, and not the “salt and pepper” type of seasoned meals. Below are some traditional Montenegrin dishes you should try when in Montenegro.
MONTENEGRO TRADITIONAL DISHES YOU MUST TRY
1. Buzara (made with shellfish, shrimps, and prawns, cooked in red or white wine, with spices, tomatoes, and herbs).
2. Njegusi Prosciutto (This is an outstanding Prosciutto or dry-cured-ham. It is a slow process using a pig’s hind leg. It can take about a year to fully cure. The drying methods, selective wood, mountain air, and aromatics added during this process make it a one-of-a-kind Prosciutto. They enjoy it with bread, cheese, olives, and grapes).
3. Cevapi or Cevapici (Another favourite and traditional Balkan dish. This is a very delicious Balkan sausage made from a mixture of pork, beef, or lamb. They make it in the shape and length of a finger. Then they grill it and serve it in a sandwich. It is not only found in Montenegro but across the region.
4. Kacamak (Considered mountain food, this a dish made from potatoes, milk, and kajmak cream cheese. They then beat it to a polenta-like form and serve it with sour milk. It is a meatless dish).
5. Ajvar – Roasted Red Pepper (It is a typical Balkan condiment, which I also enjoyed in North Macedonia. It is a traditional, very delicious, and versatile dish that can complement salads, sandwiches, meat accompaniment, or as a chip and dip, and hors d’oeuvres).
6. Rastan – Wild Cabbage (A dish made with wild cabbage, potatoes, and spices. They also add sausage, smoked bones, or bacon for extra taste and heartiness. Eat it alone or in accompaniment with other meals).
7. Burek (This is a filo pastry treat filled with cheese, spinach, or potatoes. It comes in wedge, tube, and spiral shapes and might be a bit crunchy and oily but very delicious).
8. Riblja Corba – Fish soup (A famous and flavourful soup in the coastal and lake regions in Montenegro. Originally it was a dish that started out using small fish. It was a tradition for fishermen to use the small fish to make soup, now it has grown to other bigger fishes).
9. Brav u Mlijeku – Lamb in Milk (a meal cooked in a bell-shaped pot over coals. They braise lamb in milk with herbs and spices, potatoes, carrots, garlic, parsley fennel, etc. The result is a succulent and delicious dish).
10.Traditional Montenegrin Cheeses (Montenegro produces many types of cheese, such as Lisnati, Pljevaljski Sir, Njeguski, and Prljo. With a glass of local wine, olives, and Prosciutto, you will have a true Montenegrin experience).
Montenegro the land of the black Mountains Cont....
MUST DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN MONTENEGRO
1. Saborni Hram Hristovog Vaskrsenja – The Cathedral of Christ’s Resurrection. This standout white Orthodox church is a must-see. Be sure to visit inside. It is gorgeous.
2. Lake Skadar – (one of the largest lake bird reserves in Southern Europe, and borders Albania). There is no direct transport to the lake. So, take the train from Podgorica to Moraca or Virpazar, then to Lake Skardar/park. It takes about 40 minutes, including transfers to this area and a boat tour. The tour highlights the former Yugoslavia. It is all about a beautiful lake ride, water lilies, and species of birds)
3. Moraca River – This river flows from the mountains and makes its way through the center of the city.
4. Dajbabe Monastery – An Orthodox monastery erected within a cave in 1897 and later expanded into a church.
5.Millennium Bridge and Vladimir Vysotsky Monument (famous Russian poet)
6. Delta City – the first and largest shopping mall in Podgorica with many modern store options, excellent prices and souvenirs galore, and best of all, play areas for those with children. A definite must-visit for some shopping.
7. The Vodopad (Niagara) Falls – Smaller than its namesake, but the locals refer to it by this name. It is best to visit during spring when the snow melts in the mountains and the flow is heavy. Because, in the early summer, the water somewhat depletes. It is a 10-minute drive from Podgorica).
DAY TRIPS OUTSIDE PODGORICA
8. Piva River Canyon – located at the foot of Pivska Mountain. It is 45 km long and 200 meters deep. It is said it produces the best-tasting water in the Balkans. Note that the water colour changes according to the season. This truly has the wow factor.
9. Budva – Budva is simply outstanding. Those visiting Podgorica should definitely take the bus there and spend a day or two. (The bus ride is under two hours). I will highly recommend spending New Year’s Eve, and ring in 2024 in Budva. I can guarantee it will be memorable because of what I saw for New Year’s 2023.
10. Tivat and or Kotor (Cattaro) These two coastal towns are among the many gorgeous sites to visit by bus for under a two-hour ride. They both offer medieval architecture, beautiful waterfronts, and historic monuments. (From Podgorica to both areas are a little over two hours by bus).
WHAT WAS MOST MEMORABLE AND ADMIRED ABOUT MONTENEGRO?
What is the one thing I will always remember, appreciate, and love about Montenegro? It was the first country I have ever visited where they kept the music 100% local or strictly Yugoslavian/Serbian. In all other countries I have visited, even if it is not an English-speaking country, I have always heard American music at most times. Of almost 80 countries I visited,
Montenegro was the only one that kept it local, in the taxis, restaurants, buses, national radio station, everywhere, and so I applaud you. Maybe you change it up during the high travel season when there are more tourists, I do not know, but throughout the country, I heard only Yugoslavian/Serbian music, and it was beautiful.
Whereas, now I have two songs I loveee, Julie and U Skripcu – Nove Godine – Listen here (even though it is a New Year’s song), it is a song that brightens my day. I loved it. I also want to thank the gentleman at the store with the souvenir t-shirts, in Mall of Montenegro, who gave me a CD of Yugoslavian. I always listen to it for the wonderful memories.
SUMMARY
Montenegro is a gorgeous and popular tourist destination. It is perfect for hikers, adventure-seekers, party-goers, beach lovers, and more. It boasts of its caverns, canyons, peaks, and gorges throughout the country. So visit and get to know Montenegro. Explore the countryside, and do some hiking because its hiking trails are therapeutic and with many freshwater springs. You can find them almost anywhere. Not only do they allow camping, but it is also safe. Therefore, off-the-beaten paths await you outside the cities. Additionally, the people are even more welcoming, and prices are even lower in the villages and rural areas.
It is also has vineyards and produces wines (try vranac red wine), and seafood and fish are plentiful. So, for these reasons, there is much to see, do, and taste on a budget. For the newbie traveller, I would recommend visiting the Balkans in late spring or summer to enjoy its true beauty. Because in the winter months, not only is it cold, but also rainy.
I really enjoyed Montenegro, the land of the black mountains, and will highly recommend it. It is a never-ending surprise and a hidden gem in Europe. I love the wintertime even though it was super cold. For me, it was nice and beautiful, so I can only imagine the summer. I loved and enjoyed the road trips to the other cities most. Very thrilling. I give two thumbs up for the truly breathtaking scenery along the way. I will advise all to use the bus service like I did or rent a car. Montenegro has something for everyone, a peaceful quiet vacation or party hearty on the beach option. Visit and enjoy!
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