A GUIDE TO SERBIA & MONTENEGRO
If you've never thought of Montenegro as a happening holiday destination, think again. Those in the know have been hiding away here for years – and it's no wonder. A tiny republic in southeast Europe, the drop dead gorgeous scenery here will literally have your jaw dropping to the floor from the moment you arrive. Cue glittering turquoise-green lakes. Green mountains as far as the eye can see. And cashmere soft sands melting into sapphire-blue seas. Even spy extraordinaire 007 couldn't keep away – these gorgeous landscapes starred on the big screen in the James Bond blockbuster 'Casino Royale'. But it's not just natural beauty Montenegro has going for it. There are the warm, welcoming locals. Ancient towns to uncover. And some delicious cuisine to tempt your tastebuds. It is any wonder this unspoilt destination is set to be the next buzzword in travel? Our tip – get here as soon as you can. Well if it's good enough for her majesty's secret service…
Beaches
If you're a beach lover you'll need to head to Montenegro with its impressive 117 beaches. Dazzling strips of snow-white sands separate the brilliant blue-green Adriatic seas from lush olive groves and aromatic pinewoods, and a breathtaking backdrop of mountains that tumble down to the shores. Whether you wish to lie in a secluded cove and sift the sugary-sand through your fingers, swim in the translucent waters or charter a boat along the coastline, you will find your own paradise. Much of the coastline is graced with an abundance of exotic sub-tropical flora and there are some startling red-sand beaches in stunning locations like the Bay of Becici and Budva.
Eating out
The cuisine of Serbia and Montenegro is largely influenced by its Balkan neighbours and you can try traditional dishes such as soups, stews and smoked meats. A wonderfully warm Mediterranean climate encourages plentiful olives and figs as well as orange, lemon and kiwi fruits which are used in cooking along with fresh local produce. Taster speciality mussels in bouzzara sauce, made from onions, garlic, parsley, tomato, pepper and mint and local delicacies like black rice risotto, roast lamb baked on hot coals and Njeguski smoked ham. You will find Serbian menus offering hearty dishes liked pihtije, jellied pork, cevapcic, charcoal grilled minced meat and kabobs, grilled meat balls. Wash it down with a bottle of wine from the cellars Vranac, Vrabac and Krstac. Desserts are sticky and sweet, including strukli, nuts and plums stuffed into cheese balls, lokum, Turkish delight and alva, nuts crushed in honey. Enjoy a seafood feast in Montenegro with mouth-watering mussels, crabs, oysters and lobster and over 116 species of edible fish which includes sea bass and red mullet.
Nightlife
There is a wide range of nightlife in the major towns and cities of Montenegro and Serbia, including bars, clubs, cinemas and theatres. Montenegro has a good choice of friendly welcoming pubs and nightclubs that stay open into the early hours and you'll find Serbia's best night spots in the historical city of Belgrade, with an excellent selection of sleek nightclubs, lively disco's, bustling bars and atmospheric jazz haunts. Many of the mountain villages and hamlets in the countryside host captivating summer festivals, which take place in open-air venues and feature singers and musicians and are well worth seeing if you get the chance.
Shopping
You will find a charming choice of both high street and independent shops in Montenegro and Serbia. Special purchases include embroidery, lace, leatherwork, pec filigree work, metalwork and Turkish coffee sets. Browse the larger cities for fashion boutiques and department stores or wind your way through ancient towns laced with one off curios and delightful craft shops selling handmade gifts. Stumble upon bustling marketplaces with labyrinthine alleyways ablaze with colourful stalls where you may just uncover a treasure or two.
Recommended destinations for Serbia & Montenegro
