07 July 2019 - From season to season, Herceg Novi and the Bay of Kotor attract more and more tourists who want to explore Montenegro's underwater world. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in diving courses offered by Diving Club Adriatic Blue on Škver.

The Diving Club Adriatic Blue was founded 15 years ago and ever since, its members have been actively organizing diving training and diving tours. Two instructors and three dive masters are the main members of the club. “Diving classes are attended by children from 8 to 14 years old, while the diving school is accessible to individuals older than 14 years, which is the precondition for getting the certificate issued by the Diving Association of Montenegro,” said the director of the club Danijel Đorđević for Radio Jadran.

Training for divers who want the CMAS certificate of the first, second or third category, lasts for an average of 6 days. The theoretical part is processed daily, followed by practical training under water.

Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS) is an international federation that represents underwater activities in underwater sport and marine sciences, and oversees an international system of recreational snorkel and scuba diver training and recognition. It is also known by its English name, the World Underwater Federation. The CMAS has developed a CMAS International Diver Training Certification System that consists of Diver, Speciality Diver, Technical Diver and Leadership Diver Training Standards and which allows divers that have been trained in accordance with the prescribed CMAS International Diver Training Standards to have their certifications recognised throughout the world in countries that are members of the CMAS family of divers.

The underwater area of Bay of Kotor is extremely attractive, due to nature and configuration itself, but also due to the wreckage of ships and planes that have been found at the bottom of the sea throughout the years.

“At the area from Cape Dobreč, through the island Mamula to Blue Cave (Montenegrin: Plava špilja), we have a very attractive terrain, riffs that extend up to 40 meters deep and several caves, such as Blue Cave, Zlatne vale, Jakubića cave, that are harmless even for beginner divers. In terms of shipwrecks, the most attractive ship is Patrolac at Žanjice, because it is accessible for all CMAS categories. It is the most visited wreck on the entire Montenegrin coast,” says Đorđević.

He also highlighted that better cooperation between diving clubs and the Municipality of Herceg Novi and the Tourist Organization of this city is of great importance in order to more actively promote diving tourism before, during and after the tourist season. “If we had more support, Herceg Novi would become a great diving destination, because all foreigners that come and go on our diving tour are delighted with the visibility, the warmth of the water and the diversity of locations on a relatively small area, at a short distance from the city,” Đorđević concluded.

Read more about tourist destinations in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

06 July 2019 - One of the most famous world travel guides, Lonely Planet, has published another interesting article about Montenegro, in which it advises on how best to meet the charm that Montenegro has, recommends Northern Montenegro as an ideal place to escape the summer crowds, introduces readers to the turbulent history of this country, but also speaks about the mentality of the Montenegrin people.

Bursting at the seams with majestic mountains, breath-taking beaches and larger-than-life locals, minuscule Montenegro proves once and for all that good things do indeed come in small packages, the author highlights.

Lonely Planet’s article explains that Montenegro offers a warm welcome for all tourists. “It's nigh on impossible to come across a travel section without someone trumpeting Montenegro as the new 'it' destination. And though the country is rightfully revelling in the spotlight, the people remain as they've always been: candid, convivial and charming. Unlike in many other emerging destinations, hassling and scamming visitors isn't big on Montenegrins' agenda; for the most part, you're more likely to encounter a spontaneous bear hug than a bothersome tout. Whether you're chasing highland hospitality or coastal comradery, expect gregarious greetings, the shirt off your host's back and the addition of at least 5kg; these folks love to feed,” it is stated in the article.

It's not even 300 km from tip to toe, but Montenegro's coastline crams in some of Europe’s most spectacular seaside scenery. Mountains jut sharply from crystal-clear waters in such a way that the word 'looming' is unavoidable. Ancient walled towns cling to the rocks and dip their feet in the water like they're the ones on holiday. In summer, the whole scene is bathed in the scent of wild herbs, conifers and Mediterranean blossoms. All of this – and much, much more – is wrapped up into an area two-thirds of the size of Wales.

When the beaches fill up with Eastern European sun-seekers, intrepid travellers can easily sidestep the hordes by getting off the beaten track in the rugged mountains of Durmitor and Prokletije, the primeval forest of Biogradska Gora, or in the many towns and villages where ordinary Montenegrins go about their daily lives. Hike, horse ride, mountain bike or kayak yourself to somewhere obscure and chances are you'll have it all to yourself. This is, after all, a country where wolves and bears still lurk in forgotten corners.

Ever since the Roman Empire split in two 1600 years ago, Montenegro has sat on the borderline between east and west. The richness of its cultural history can be seen in the mosaic floors of Roman villas, flamboyantly painted Orthodox monasteries, ornate Catholic churches, elegant minarets of mosques, and the sturdy fortresses built by the numerous powers that have fought over these lands. Then there's the legacy of 50 years as a non-aligned communist state, independent of both the Eastern Bloc and the West. For those with even a passing interest in European history, it's a fascinating place.

Read more about travelling through Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

04 July 2019 - The UNESCO World Heritage Committee adopted decisions relating to two world heritage sites in Montenegro - the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor and the National Park Durmitor.

The decision relating to the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor is one of the most affirmative decisions of the Committee related to the Region of Kotor, especially since 2003, when the area was removed from the List of World Heritage in Danger on which it was inscribed due to the devastating earthquake in 1979. 

Nevertheless, from that moment, the Committee commenced the warnings about the danger of sudden and uncontrolled urbanization and tourist pressure that threatens the preservation of exceptional universal values that are the basis of the World Heritage List. The decisions of the Committee were stricter, until the Istanbul Decision in 2016, after which a series of consultations were held with UNESCO, which resulted in the Government of Montenegro's adoption of the Action Plan for the implementation of this Decision. Since February 2017, when the Action Plan was adopted, a number of activities resulted in a Decision that welcomes the efforts of the "member state in many areas, including the development of the Draft Urban Spatial Plan of Kotor, the preparation of amendments to the Law on Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor, the initiation of the audit of the Management Plan, the Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) of the area...".

It welcomes the State's decision to abandon the proposed project of the cable car from the Old Town to the San Giovanni Fortress and the Glavati Prčanj tourist complex in order to protect the exceptional universal value. The State is encouraged to continue to improve the process of impact assessment, the HIA is required for the tourist complex in Morinj and the bridge in Verige, before State's commitment to implement these ideas. It is required that the revised Management Plan includes recommendations of the Reactive Monitoring Mission from 2018. In particular, it is required that the Management Plan addresses the issues of managing and reducing risks and tourism management.

The Ministry of Culture of Montenegro reported that the decision concerning the Durmitor National Park treats the issues that were the subject of the Advisory Mission in November 2018. The decision confirms the findings of the Advisory Mission, which calls for a series of activities that the State should undertake in the upcoming period in cooperation with UNESCO and advisory bodies.

The World Heritage Committee is held every year with the aim of considering the state of conservation of natural and cultural goods inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as considering new nominations. This year's Committee is being held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 30 June to 10 July. The Committee has made a number of important decisions, some of which concern the cessation of the status of "heritage in danger" for countries that have managed to prevent the loss of certain values. Certain goods are inscribed on the List of World Heritage in Danger.

At this year's Committee, Montenegro joined a group of states that supported Switzerland in an appeal for a more consistent application of the Convention in deciding, and for equal access to all countries and goods under consideration, in order to further strengthen the Convention and the role of the Committee. 

Secretary-General of the National Commission for UNESCO of Montenegro Milica Nikolić is taking part at the Committee in Baku.

Read more about traveling through Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

30 June 2019 - The breathtaking Ethno village Nevidio represents an attractive tourist destination in Montenegro which offers an unforgettable experience for all tourists who want to feel the adrenaline rush and at the same time to enjoy the unique natural beauty of this mountainous area.

The untouched “wild beauty” of Montenegro that manages to attract more and more tourists each year offers breathtaking landscapes where tourists can feel the pulse of nature, breathe in the fresh air and swim in the clearest rivers and lakes. In recent years, the northern region of Montenegro has been focusing on ethno tourism in which the key motivation of the tourists entails a desire to understand the cultural practices of local communities. This relatively recent, but rapidly expanding industry managed to breathe life back to beautiful Montenegrin villages.

Even though Montenegro has a fairly small surface area of 13.812 sq. km, within its borders, tourists can find most attractive tourist regions in the Mediterranean and Europe. Especially interesting is the authentic facilities in rural tourism of Montenegro, like the ethno villages on Durmitor, Bjelasica, Prokletije, the Lovćen mountains, at Skadar Lake basin with Zeta valley and rural part of Montenegrin seaside.

One of the most beautiful ethno villages in the Balkans, Ethno village Nevidio is located in the small village of Pošćenje, on the south side of Mount Durmitor. Surrounded by the contours of the mountains with the splendid cliffs, a picturesque panorama of the Durmitor area, with two seaside lakes and the Komarnica River, this village is considered one of the most stunning picturesque villages in the region. The famous geographer Jovan Cvijić wrote about the beauties and nature of the village in his travel books.

This place, which is only 30 meters away from the main road Risan-Žabljak, was created for lovers of natural beauty and adrenaline. Ethno village Nevidio provides passage through the famous Nevidio Canyon, the last conquered canyon in Europe! In the village, there are several bike trails suitable for lovers of today's popular mountain biking, as well as seven hiking trails that include tours from two to twelve hours. This place was practically created for worshipers of alpinism, giving them the possibility of climbing on Boljske Beams, which are up to 700 meters high and are currently an alpine hit. The 29 curved rocks offer the possibility of sports climbing.

Ethno village Nevidio was built in an ambient style and composed of several cascading levels. At the highest level, there are nine bungalows, built of the highest quality materials, equipped with a living room, kitchen, rooms and bathrooms. At the middle level, there is the restaurant Savardak, where everyone is welcome to taste local cuisine and in the evening with some sprinkler or brandy, they will experience beautiful moments and memories worth remembering.

At the last level of the village, there is a beautiful village lake, in which view visitors of Nevidio village can enjoy.

The owners of the Nevidio Ethno village invite all tourists from the country and abroad to feel the embrace of the forest, to enjoy lying under the sky filled with stars, breathe the mountain air and taste clear spring water, away from crowds and everyday tasks.

Read more about Montenegro's tourism offer at TMN's dedicated page.

29 June 2019 - Marie Claire magazine recently published an article explaining why Montenegro is the perfect travel destination for all tourists worldwide. “If you’ve never thought of holidaying in Montenegro, here’s why you should” provided information not only on the offer of the gorgeous five-star Hotel Regent, but also on the best tips on how to spend the most fantastic holiday and enjoy the Adriatic charm in Montenegro.

Think glorious blue seas, cobbled streets and orange rooves that stretch for miles, similar to its neighbour Croatia only much quieter. Montenegro has been tipped as one of the continent’s most up-and coming travel destinations, and with good reason.

Here’s why you should head to the country’s UNESCO-protected Boka Bay area on the Adriatic coast for your next European adventure.

Just 10 minutes by car from Tivat Airport and about to celebrate its fifth birthday, Regent Porto Montenegro is the five-star jewel in the region’s crown. We’re talking the most comfortable beds, daylight flooded-rooms and cosy interiors that’ll put you at ease from the moment you settle into your room.

The views are extraordinary – set right on the beautiful Monaco-esque harbour you’ll be able to gaze out at miles of sea and mountains, a world away from the greyness of day-to-day life in the UK.

Porto Montenegro itself is home to a number of restaurants, bars, designer shops, pool club and nightlife, so you’re spoilt for choice in terms of things to do in the village-like area, but keep reading for all that the hotel has to offer.

Feeling extra flush? The Suite Life package includes private airport transfers, breakfast, cocktails in the cosy Library Bar or pool club, and a 50€ voucher redeemable in the hotel’s beautiful spa. From £831pp per night, you’ll also get tickets to events in Porto Montenegro and a private Naval Heritage Museum tour. Dreamy.

Murano is the hotel’s luxury eating spot, serving carefully crafted dishes and taking advantage of all of the local seafood and wine (great for fish lovers). There’s also the option to have a private Chef’s Table dining experience for 4-6, for a more intimate eating session. In the mornings, breakfast is also served at Murano; if to your taste, the truffle scrambled eggs are a must-have at least once during your stay.

For a more casual eating option, head to the Gourmet Corner, a lovely breakfast and lunch spot with the feel of an Italian deli. On Thursdays between May and mid-September, chefs will be hosting Al Fresco dining sessions here and cooking up a range of delicious pasta and risotto dishes. And after dinner, the cosy Library bar is perfect for an evening tipple.

When you need a moment of peace and quiet, pop up to the hotel’s spa floor for some time out. You’re well equipped with a sauna, steam room, experience shower, Turkish bath and swimming pool, plus plenty of space to sit and relax.

Aromatherapy Associates products and treatments are also both on offer to help you achieve maximum relaxation. Try the Regent Spa Signature Treatment, a head-to-toe combination of massage and lymphatic drainage complete with an aromatherapy oil best suited to your needs. If you’re feeling fancy, there’s even the option to have your treatment on a private yacht…

If you are looking for things to do in Montenegro, you should definitely go for wine tasting! Not far from Podgorica airport is the Plantaže vineyard and Sipcanik wine cellar, housed in a former secret hangar. Head for a wine tasting session, paired of course with delicious fruits and cheeses, or simply to pick up a few bottles to take home. Did we mention it’s much cheaper than you’ll find in the supermarket?

Made up of narrow streets and squares, the old town of Kotor also has plenty of history and interesting architecture on offer. Explore the city on your own or book in for a walking tour to see the area through the eyes of a local. For a few euros you can also climb the steps of the city walls for the postcard-perfect bird’s eye view.

If you’re interested in the local cuisine, there’s also an abundance of local restaurants and coffee spots to choose from, with Perast’s must-see Our Lady of the Rocks a short drive away. We recommend sitting in the town’s Square of the Arms for a people watching session paired with delicious coffee.

Read more tips about spending your holiday in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

26 June 2019 - The beauty of beaches in Montenegro has once again been confirmed as Sveti Stefan beach is declared one of the most beautiful in Europe. The popular British daily Evening Standard has created a list of the most beautiful beaches “you should be lying on this summer”, and they just couldn't miss placing one of Montenegro's breathtaking beaches on their list.

Namely, in an article titled "30 of the most stunning beaches in Europe", journalist Laura Hampson noted that the UK and their European neighbours could boast having some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world.

The article draws attention to attractive pictures of beautiful beaches with a brief description and advice on how to get there.

In addition to the mega-popular beach Navagio on Zakinthos, the Mediterranean charm of the French Riviera, the hidden bays in Portugal, always attractive Sicily, the Croatian Nugal Beach, the unusual beaches of Durdle Door in Britain, the Cala Macarella beach in Spain (which the British people adore), the list includes Budva Riviera’s luxurious island Sveti Stefan.

“A sandbank makes up this stunning beach that looks onto the Sveti Stefan islet – home to an Aman resort. Half of the beach, on the Budva side, is reserved for hotel guests (unless you want to pay the €100 day charge) while the other side is a free-for-all. Spend the day soaking up the sun, dipping in the deep sea and admiring the mountainous terrain that surrounds you”, says the article, inviting not only British, but tourists from the world to come and visit Montenegro.

The article also explains that the closest airport to the city is the Airport in Tivat and it’s a 50-minute drive to the islet from there. Alternatively, Podgorica (Montenegro’s capital) airport and Dubrovnik airport in Croatia is a one and two-hour drive away respectively.

Read more about the most gorgeous holiday locations in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.