The vacation season is in full swing and many people are asking themselves where to vacation. You don't want to fly to all-inclusive Egypt or Turkey. In that case, consider Montenegro, a small but incredibly colorful and vibrant country.
Mountain lovers and sea lovers alike will love it here. You can relax here, lying on the beach and enjoying the local delicacies. Or head to the mountains for a bird's eye view of the country's beauty. Relict forests make the air of Montenegro healing and very "tasty", and caves and ancient monasteries complete the fabulous image of this country. A pleasant bonus to all this splendor are some of the best beaches on the Adriatic coast.
So, you have made a choice and fly to Montenegro. The question arises as to what to take there, as each country has its own specifics.
Finances
Let's begin with your finances. Montenegro is not a very budget-friendly country, and prices tend to fluctuate with the seasons. To get the best value for your money, consider visiting at the end of August when the peak tourist season begins to wind down.
It's advisable to carry euros, as it's the official currency of the country. This way, you won't have to search for money exchange services, and you'll avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
Food
If you're traveling on a tight budget and don't plan to eat out in cafes and restaurants all the time, it's a good idea to bring some essential foods with you to cook on-site. Most hotels in Montenegro typically provide only breakfast. Consider packing items like cereals, pasta, and canned food for convenience.
Montenegro offers a variety of dining options, and you can also find inexpensive places that offer set lunches, including soup, meat or fish, and possibly dessert, which are known for their delicious taste. Additionally, if you're not watching your diet, don't miss the chance to visit a "bakari," where they bake bread and pastries with sweet and savory fillings, filling the air with irresistible aromas.
Beach Essentials
The beach season in Montenegro spans from late May to late September. Here's what you'll need to pack for the beach:
- Swimsuit
Essential beachwear, and buying one in Montenegro can be relatively expensive.
- Towels
Renting a sun lounger can be costly, so it's a good idea to bring your own beach towels.
- Sunscreen (SPF 30/50)
Montenegro is a sunny country, so protecting your skin from sunburn is crucial for a comfortable vacation.
- Headgear
Wearing a hat or a cap helps prevent sunstroke during long beach days.
- After-sun products
Bringing products like after-sun lotion can help soothe and cool your skin after sun exposure.
- Sun umbrella
If you'd rather not rent one in Montenegro or purchase one locally, consider bringing your own sun umbrella to the beach.
- Beach Slippers
Many of Montenegro's beaches have pebbles, so having comfortable beach slippers will make your walks to the sea more enjoyable.
Hiking in the Mountains
If you're an outdoor enthusiast planning to explore the Montenegrin mountains, remember to prepare for varying temperatures as you ascend. Here's what you should pack for your mountain adventure:
- Raincoat: An absolute necessity, as mountain weather can change rapidly from rain to sunshine and back. Umbrellas won't suffice during heavy downpours.
- Warm Clothes: Pack pants, a sweater, and a thin knit hat. Mountain temperatures in summer can be around +15°C during the day and +10°C in the evening.
- Shirt and Long-Sleeved Cotton Blouse: Opt for natural fabrics to keep you comfortable in varying temperatures.
- Tight Jeans
- Closed, Sturdy Shoes with Thick Soles: In mountain areas, snakes may be a concern, and proper boots will protect you from unexpected encounters and offer comfort during your hike.
Monastery Visits
Montenegro boasts numerous ancient Orthodox monasteries. If you plan to explore these sacred sites, remember to pack the following for your monastery visits:
- For Women:
- For Men:
- Closed Shoes: Avoid beach flip-flops, as they are considered inappropriate attire within monastery grounds.
What You Can't Buy in Montenegro
Did you know you can't buy black tea in Montenegro? Cafes and restaurants offer green tea, carcade, and various herbal concoctions. So if you can't live without this drink, be sure to bring it with you. Here's a list of other things you might have trouble finding in this sunny country:
- Baby Food: Surprisingly, baby food is quite scarce and expensive in Montenegro. If you're traveling with a baby, it's wise to bring a few jars of baby food along.
- Phone Charger: Unless you have a Nokia or Samsung phone, it's recommended to bring your own charger. Finding chargers for phones of other brands can be challenging in local stores.
Remember, a good mood is an essential part of any vacation. Don't forget to bring that with you!
