Independent trip to Montenegro: tips for tourists. Montenegro For good things you have to go to Bar and Podgorica
Before leaving for the airport
Check the availability of the following documents: foreign passport (valid for at least 1 month from the date of return from the trip), air ticket, voucher, insurance policy, power of attorney from the parents (if a minor child is traveling without them), birth certificate (if the child and parent different surnames). Check-in for the flight begins 3 hours before the time indicated on the ticket.
There are two in the country international airport– in Podgorica and Tivat. Summer charter flights various airlines They fly to Tivat once a week - this is the most convenient and economical flight, taking approximately 3 hours. In addition, there are regular Aeroflot and JAT flights to Belgrade, and then you can fly to Tivat or Podgorica on local airlines. It is also possible to fly to Dubrovnik (Croatia), and then transfer to Montenegro (the journey takes about 6 hours).
At the Montenegro airport
For citizens Russian Federation, Belarus and Ukraine, entry into the territory of Montenegro (for up to 30 days) is visa-free, but only if you have a valid passport, and if at the border control tourists present a tourist voucher (a document confirming the provision of tourism services). For a period of up to 90 days for You can enter the territory of Montenegro without a visa if you have the following documents: an invitation from a legal entity, a duly certified invitation from an individual, a tourist voucher, a referral for treatment or a certificate of visiting the graves of relatives.
Customs regulations
Foreign citizens can bring an unlimited amount of currency, which they must present and declare upon entering the country. An equivalent amount can be taken out of the country.
We inform you that from May 13, 2014, Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 398 of April 29, 2014 “On invalidating paragraph 7 of Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of December 31, 2005 No. 866 “On labeling alcoholic products with excise stamps” comes into force ". In this regard, the import of any alcoholic beverages into the territory of the Russian Federation from abroad is prohibited. The exception will be alcoholic beverages purchased at airports in Duty Free shops.
Airport tax
Paid in the amount of 15 Euros when purchasing a ticket.
Amazing Montenegro
If you want to relax surrounded by pristine nature, visit monasteries with a centuries-old history, or decide to experience new experiences - in Montenegro you will be greeted by hospitable people, proud and friendly. People who know how to appreciate and love the nature that surrounds them, people who always knew how to welcome a dear guest, and whose traditions respect friendly guests. You will be met by people devoted to the land on which they live, devoted to Montenegro, people who are proud of their ancestors, bear their names and protect their heritage. Surrounded by the purest sea, bound in white stone, caressed by the Mediterranean sun, Montenegro is one of the last oases in Europe, in which you can hide from the constant rush of modern civilization, relax to the sound of waves, the chirping of crickets and the intoxicating aromas of nature.
In total, there are 117 beaches in Montenegro, with a total length of more than 70 km. The bulk of them are made up of magnificent sandy and sand-pebble beaches. The largest of them – “Great Beach” (13 km) – is located in the city of Ulcinj in the south of the country. Almost every large “ordinary” beach is adjacent to a nudist beach at a short distance from it, for example, from the coast of Budva you can take a boat ride in a few minutes to the island of St. Nicholas, which locals call “Hawaii”.
Bernard Shaw spoke with admiration about the Montenegrin coast: “This is the most beautiful corner of the whole world”, it was visited by crowned heads of Europe, for example, Queen Elizabeth II of England, world famous actors such as Sophia Loren and Kirk Douglas, the most beautiful women in the world walked along the cobbled streets, such like Doris Day and Claudia Schiffer. In addition to the magnificent beaches, Montenegro has many other places worthy of the attention of tourists. Therefore, while vacationing in this country, it is worth visiting at least some of its many attractions. Medieval fortresses and towers of seaside towns still preserve precious historical heritage, monasteries, churches and cathedrals of rare beauty and artistic value. Therefore, it is not surprising that some of the cities, such as Kotor, are protected by UNESCO as an international cultural heritage. Montenegro has the deepest canyon in Europe and the second deepest in the world after Colorado (USA) on the Tara River. The only fjord in the Mediterranean is also located in Montenegro - the stunningly beautiful Boka Kotoroska Bay. In the monastery of Cetinje, former capital In Montenegro, according to legend, the incorrupt right hand of John the Baptist is kept. There is also another relic here - part of the cross on which the Savior was crucified.
In Montenegro there is the largest and most famous Center for multidisciplinary rehabilitation, physical and preventive medicine - “IGALO”. Today it is a modern treatment and preventive Center, the specificity of which is the use of comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation programs, in which the use of scientifically proven natural healing factors is combined with the most modern methods of medicine. Thanks to the mild Mediterranean climate (the air is enriched with ozone, ions, essential oils; stable sea water temperature; optimal humidity), and a number of other natural factors, since 1943 the IGALO Institute has been proclaimed a natural climatic place of treatment.
Transport
Two international airports, Railway Bar-Belgrade, port in the city of Bar - daily ferry connection with Italy (Bar-Bari), the Adriatic Highway connects all places on the Adriatic coast. Developed network highways Montenegro allows you to easily get to anywhere in the country. The roads are in good condition, but the mountainous terrain makes driving difficult.
Currency unit– Euro (EURO). Bank cards are not widely used for payment in shops, hotels and restaurants. The National Bank is open from 10:30 to 14:00. Commercial banks– Monday to Thursday from 8:00 to 15:00, on Fridays – from 8:00 to 13:00. All banks are closed on Saturdays. In the center of Belgrade and Podgorica, as well as in resort areas, many currency exchange offices are open on weekends.
Montenegro belongs to the Central European time zone. Time difference: 2 hours behind Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Moderate continental, alpine in the mountains, Mediterranean on the Adriatic coast, 240 sunny days a year. Average air/water temperatures in Montenegro, °C: April +20/+17, May +23/+19, June +26/+23, July +29/+25, August +30/+26, September +26/ +23, October +22/+19.
Serbian, many residents speak Russian well.
The Montenegrin population mainly professes Orthodoxy, there are Catholics and Muslims.
Hotels and restaurants include a service charge in the bill price. But it is still customary to tip 10% of the cost of services or simply round up the bill.
Electricity
The voltage used is 220 V. An adapter according to the European standard is required.
Features of staying in the country
The attitude towards Russians is very good: it is due to the common Orthodox faith and the similarity of languages. Many people understand and willingly communicate in Russian. The criminal situation in Montenegro is calm. Montenegrins are open and friendly, but somewhat slow people. In restaurants and cafes, you won’t have to wait long for your order or the bill; female students and student waiters are well aware that the summer season is short, and they do everything on the run.
Local kitchen is divided into three “schools”: purely local, fish and Italian. The portions are huge. Despite the proximity Adriatic Sea, fish in Montenegro is quite expensive. Local cuisine is a “fairy tale” of pork or beef. We also recommend trying dairy products – Njegush cheese, kajmak. Local wines, although poorly known on international markets, deserve attention. The “calling card” of local winemaking is considered to be the tart Montenegrin “Vranac”, of which there are dozens of varieties. Among the local white wines, Krstac, Chardonnay and Sauvignon are popular among Russians. The highest quality strong drink is “Krunak” (grape vodka).
The shops
Supermarkets and other shops are open daily from 6:00 to 20:00, in tourist centers - until 23:00. Some shops are also open on Sundays, and there are shops open 24 hours a day.
Car rent
To rent a car, you must: be at least 21 years old, have at least 3 years of driving experience, have an international driving license, and an insurance document for the car. The rental price includes: accident insurance, theft insurance, VAT. Additionally paid: deposit for the car in the amount of 150-300 EUR, passenger insurance, fuel. Assistance and information on the roads: AMSCG (Automobile and Motorcycle Association of Montenegro) - tel. 987; AMSCh - information center - tel. 451-029.
Attention! The driving style of local residents is unique and requires some getting used to. The speed limit on the country's roads must be strictly observed - perhaps this is the only violation for which a Russian can be punished when driving a rented car in Montenegro.
If you are going to have a great time, then it is important to find out not only the advantages of the place that you like, but also the disadvantages. On vacation, there are often some troubles if you don’t plan everything to the smallest detail in advance. Today Montenegro is very popular among tourists from different countries, because this is a great opportunity to spend time usefully and enjoy nature’s incredible beauty. But, like any other country, Montenegro has its own characteristics.
If you want great relax and leave only the best memories in your memory, then you need to be aware of the dangers. This resort country is distinguished by its incredible nature and comfortable living conditions, but there are some dangers that await inexperienced tourists. So, we present to your attention a list of the biggest troubles that tourists who come on vacation to Montenegro may encounter.
1. Diseases in Montenegro. In general, medical experts recommend that vacationers get vaccinated against certain diseases first, so as not to endanger themselves and their families. Vaccination will cost you a small amount, but will be a sure guarantee of protection against diseases. The most common diseases in Montenegro are tetanus, hepatitis B and encephalitis. No one can be 100% insured against such troubles, so it is better to make injections in advance that will protect you for the entire period of rest. There are also cases of hemorrhagic fever, so it is better to insure yourself against such a nuisance in advance and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
2. Inadequate quality of tap water in Montenegro. Local residents are well aware that the water that flows from the taps is unsuitable for internal consumption, but tourists who visit this country rarely think about this. Try to give preference to bottled water, because the manufacturer himself takes care of its quality. It is also worth paying attention to products purchased in local stores and stalls. If you want to protect yourself from intestinal infections and digestive disorders, it is better to process dairy products thermally. Meat and fish, seafood and vegetables should be consumed after cooking. The dishes that waiters offer you in restaurants are of high quality, but when buying products in the markets of Montenegro, you automatically expose yourself to danger.
3. Characteristics some regions of Montenegro. If during your trip you want to travel around the country, then pay attention to local features. For example, Presovo is characterized by its constant tense inter-ethnic situations, and all areas near Kosovo can be dangerous with their unmarked minefields. In any case, obtain information from local residents regarding possible dangers in a particular region.
4. Local fauna of Montenegro. Often tourists who have little interest in the natural features of Montenegro find themselves in unpleasant situations. If you want to go to hiking trip to the mountains or forest on your own without a guide, then be careful, because some of its representatives can be dangerous to your health or even life. Beware of snakes, because the local viper, sea urchin and some types of insects can significantly ruin your holiday. Some types of jellyfish that are found in the waters of Montenegro can also be dangerous to your body. In general, try to beware of any animals wildlife, about which you know little.
5. Local crime in Montenegro. In fact, you can be calm for your life while relaxing in this place, because in Montenegro there are rare cases of murders. But you should be wary of local thieves who will lie in wait for tourists who have lost their vigilance. If you forget about your personal belongings, there may be someone who will be interested in them. Local residents do not recommend tourists to wander alone through the streets at night and stop on the side of the road when someone wants to sit down. Try to avoid communicating with strangers and relax in places where there are law enforcement officials. Montenegro has a lot of guarded beaches that guarantee your safety. The border with Albania is considered a particularly dangerous area, so if you are traveling by car, avoid local residents and people who cause you the slightest mistrust.
6. Rockfalls in Montenegro. If you want to go to the mountains on your own, then choose an area that is popular among vacationers. There are some places in the mountains where rock particles regularly fall. Rockfalls are dangerous to your life, so prefer terrain that is recommended by the guide and local residents.
The article presents the author's personal point of view, based on personal experience and the experience of relatives.The author’s opinion is shared by many other tourists; just enter the search query into the Google search engine: “horror of the Montenegro hotel” or similar.
We remind you that the opinion of the author of the article may not coincide with the opinion of the site administration. If you want to express your point of view about Montenegro, you can send an article with your experience of being in this country.
Thank you to all readers and commentators for your attention to the article!
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Accommodation in Montenegro
Main accommodation options in Montenegro - hotels and private sector(rooms or apartments). IN last years in popular tourist places The number of hostels is growing. In summer there are sites for setting up tents, and in the so-called. ecological villages and in the mountains - shelter huts.
IN high season Some hotels and private owners set a minimum number of days of stay (from three days to a week). During the winter, many tourism organizations and hotels on the coast are closed.
The price of a hotel room usually includes breakfast, bed linen, towels and basic toiletries. Most mid-priced rooms have a TV, refrigerator and air conditioning - except in mountainous areas, where air conditioning is usually replaced by heating. The rooms in the higher price category are much better equipped. They have a direct dial telephone, a safe and a minibar, and the bathroom has a hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers. Guests of luxury hotels can use saunas, swimming pools, sports and fitness centers and enjoy 24-hour room service. Wireless Internet is available in almost all hotels, although it is often only available in public areas.
Websites and email addresses (where available) are included in the description. But keep in mind that many websites are very primitive, and hotel staff are not always in a hurry to respond to emails.
If you do not mind paying a commission, travel agency specialists will take care of all the hassle for your accommodation. Try contacting Black Mountain f. Montenegro Adventures or other local agencies.
Campgrounds and camper sites
Household amenities in tent camps are usually the most primitive - only water and toilets. In some national parks There is the possibility of accommodation in huts, but it is very limited. Usage fees vary based on vehicle availability, tent size, number and age of guests, and amount of electricity consumed. Most often, sites for setting up tents are found on the coast (including the Bay of Kotor) and near Zabljak.
In the summer, when shepherds move their flocks to the high mountain meadows, you can ask permission to pitch a tent next to their traditional katun huts.
Hostels
Hostels in Montenegro appeared relatively recently, because previously they did not fit into strict bureaucratic frameworks - after all, they are unlike either traditional hotels or rooms in the private sector. Some of them are not much different from private rental apartments converted into hostels. The best hostels are made according to individual projects. They have spacious living rooms, equipped kitchens, shared showers and toilets. Guests are offered an extensive program of cultural and active recreation.
Hotels
The resort boom in Montenegro has led to the emergence of many large and small hotels in popular tourist destinations. Usually the hotel has a restaurant, which allows you to choose different forms of accommodation - B&B, half board or full board. Spa centers at hotels in Montenegro are called “health centers,” and for some reason the double bed is called “French.”
Hotels in Podgorica, aimed mainly at business people and government officials, are relatively expensive. On the coast you can find hotels of all price categories. The general rule is that the further you travel, the lower the average cost of accommodation. Zabljak and Kolasin, beloved by tourists, are the most expensive cities in the north of the country. But next to them you can always find accommodation for the night at a very attractive price.
Private sector
The cheapest accommodation options in any city are renting private rooms and apartments. This can be done via travel agencies or, in high season, look nearby bus stop advertisements from magic word Sobe - “rooms for rent”. Some tourist offices publish directories with a list of private accommodation for rent. Finding a private room is usually not difficult, but in the summer some hosts require a rental period of at least three days. And don't expect a separate bath or toilet.
Private apartments always have their own bathroom and kitchen. In general, you will always get what you pay for. Cheaper options always mean fewer amenities and comfort, further from beaches and attractions. However, cleanliness is guaranteed in any case. Those looking for a luxury apartment in a good location and even with a swimming pool can find their dream at www.exploremontenegro.com.
If you know a few words of the local language, are adventurous, unpretentious, and can make strangers feel at ease, you can go up to remote villages and ask if anyone has a spare room to stay the night.
Children
Children are the most welcome guests in Montenegro. For many parents, they are a reliable guarantor of a good rest. Among the staff of hotels, restaurants and cafes, families with children enjoy special favor. In nightclubs along the coast you can even see teenagers dancing boogie-woogie with their parents.
However, the availability of special equipment for children is very limited. In expensive hotels, you will be offered a folding bed as an extra bed for a child, but this must also be checked in advance. Neither taxis nor car rental agencies have child seats - their use is optional in Montenegro. High chairs for children in restaurants are the exception rather than the rule.
It is unlikely that you will be able to find a children's menu anywhere. Only the ubiquitous pastas and pizzas help out, which children eat with pleasure. And only in the most expensive five-star hotels will you be offered the services of a nanny who can look after your child. Diapers are easy to find.
Medical care in the country is very good, but some difficulties may arise due to the language barrier. Every city has a medical center. In addition to regular children's reception rooms, they have separate reception rooms for children with suspected infectious diseases.
Older children may well take a break from parental care in the company of peers. But with little ones the situation is more complicated due to low safety standards, for example, lack of fences or broken swings, so you should not take your eyes off them.
It is quite difficult to push a stroller with a baby along cobbled alleys and stairs in historical centers.
Customs regulations
To discourage tourists from neighboring countries who come on vacation with their own food supplies. Montenegro has limited the import of food products to one kilogram.
There are restrictions on the import of tobacco (200 cigarettes or 20 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco), alcohol (2 liters of wine and 1 liter of spirits) and perfume (250 ml).
A sum of money exceeding €2,000 (in cash or traveler's checks) must be declared when leaving the country. If you are entering the country with a large sum money and think that you will have more than €2000 left when you leave, fill out the entry declaration.
Otherwise, upon departure, the money may be confiscated.
Drug laws are similar to those in most other European countries - violations are punishable by long prison sentences.
When entering the country, your passport must have a border stamp. If it's not there. When leaving, you may be detained and fined for illegal entry into the country.
discount cards
The IBIS international student card is issued to students and schoolchildren over 12 years of age. Card holders receive various discounts on transport, when visiting museums and historical sites, bars, restaurants and on accommodation in hostels and hotels. The card is issued by the ІБІС Association (in Russia, issuing a card costs 400 rubles, in Ukraine - 80 hryvnia, in Belarus - $6).
Nutrition
Information about Montenegrin cuisine is presented in the corresponding section.
If you order a whole fish dish, ask to see it first so that you can estimate the approximate amount of the bill to avoid an unpleasant surprise.
Gays and lesbians
Where do they gather? The answer is nowhere. Although homosexuality was decriminalized in 1977 and a 2010 law prohibits discrimination against gay people, there is no place in Montenegro where only gays and lesbians can meet and hang out. And don't be fooled by the men in Albanian-inhabited areas who walk around holding hands.
Attitudes towards homosexuality remain hostile and life for homosexuals remains extremely difficult, especially because young people in Montenegro live with their parents until they start their own families.
In recent years, there have been several cases of bullying against homosexuals, incl. the 2012 brutal beating in the center of Podgorica of three young people who participated in the filming of a film in defense of homosexuality.
Health
Medical care in Montenegro is very good. Useful tips and non-prescription medications are available from pharmacists. Dental care is also maintained at a high level.
Before the trip
A little preparation for the trip will save you from possible health problems. Visit your dentist before you leave. Pack your bag with spare contact lenses, glasses, and your eye doctor's prescription. Keep your medications in their original containers so you don’t get confused later in a bunch of different pills of unknown purpose. Take a doctor's certificate describing your illnesses and a list of prescribed medications. If you are bringing syringes, make sure that you have a doctor's certificate justifying the need for their use.
The World Health Organization recommends that all travelers be covered for diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough and polio, regardless of where they are traveling. You should also consider getting vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and tetanus. And since most vaccines take two weeks to take effect, get your shots early.
Tick-borne encephalitis, which a person becomes infected with when bitten by infected ticks, is a serious threat in forested regions. Vaccination against it is primarily recommended for those who plan to go on a long trip. hiking through the forest area. A rabies vaccination is a good idea for travelers and wildlife lovers visiting areas where bats, carnivores and other mammals live.
Sea urchins
Beware sea urchins on rocky beaches; If you do get some needles under your skin, olive oil can help get them out. If the needles are not removed, suppuration may occur. Be careful and wear rubber shoes when swimming.
Snake bite
To avoid being bitten by a snake, do not walk barefoot or put your hands into any holes or cracks. But if a snake does bite you, don't panic. Place a splint (for example, a stick) on the bitten limb and firmly fix it. Do not use a tourniquet, cut the skin, or try to suck out the venom. Seek medical help as soon as possible. The sooner you receive serum against snake venom, the easier the consequences of the bite will be.
Tap water
As a rule, you can drink tap water in Montenegro. True, there are exceptions. For example, in Herceg Novi you should not do this in May, when the water pipeline from the main storage facility in Croatia is closed for maintenance and water is supplied from lower-quality local storage facilities. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere.
Insurance
We recommend purchasing a reliable insurance policy that covers all risks that may arise during travel (expenses for medical service loss of luggage, etc.). Theft is not a problem in Montenegro, but sometimes rental cars are attacked by vandals, and in general Montenegro's roads are not the safest in the world. When purchasing an insurance policy, compare offers from different companies and be sure to read the fine print. EU citizens receive medical care in Montenegro for free or with a discount upon presentation of a European card health insurance. Citizens of other countries Must have a health insurance policy; when determining the amount of coverage, estimate the costs in the event of a worst-case scenario. Find out if the insurer reimburses medical providers directly or if you must do so first and then receive reimbursement from your insurer. The first option is preferable, especially for people with limited finances.
Access to the Internet
Most hotels and other accommodations (with the exception of the private sector) provide free wireless Internet access, although reception is often only possible near the reception. Many bars and cafes also have wireless connections. The ambitious Porto Montenegro project being implemented in Tivat provides for providing all its residents with free wireless Internet. Most cities have an internet cafe (from €0.50/hour).
The Internet symbol in the guide indicates that there is an accessible computer with Internet access. The Wi-Fi symbol indicates places where there is a wireless connection. Please note that in some places there may be a charge for these services.