63. Mountainous Montenegro
The gorgeous greenery lines the motorway in Montenegro. Arriving at Tivat airport is a simple and quick process to enter the country. The country’s lush landscape leads one to the city centres. Budva was our first stop. As it was afternoon, lunch was calling and Dragan was our wonderful waiter at Restoran Porto. We enjoyed the fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. Afterwards, it was a short walk along the Old Town promenade. Such a beauty! Located inside is the Budva City Museum along with little local cafes, restaurants and shops. To get more steps in, the beach boardwalk is a beautiful attraction. To cool down, we drank beers at Richard Beach Bar. It was truly refreshing to close your eyes and take a moment to inhale the smell of salt water. Following that, the Budva Ballerina is the place to be. It was created to spotlight a goddess of love and loyalty. To end the night, we had dinner by the Torch Beach Club where everything comes alive.
The next day, we travelled via taxi about 15 minutes to the next town, Kotor. The eleven minute cable car to the top to see the Bay of Kotor is tempting. For lunch, we enjoyed a birthday lunch at Galion. Luka was a lovely waiter during Mum’s celebrations. Thereafter, we visited the Old Town. It’s a true hike. Remember to wear trainers and carry water to stay hydrated. Then the city sea gate, obelisk and fountain are all amazing too and all close by to the Town Walls.
The third day spent ailing in the sunshine on the Adriatic Sea. It’s a three hour speedboat ride of fun. The sights included Our Lady of the Rocks in Perast, Mamula Island and the highlight was the Blue Cave.
Soon enough, a short drive through a five minute tunnel which was built 15 years ago returned us to Tivat. While there, we experienced an excellent stay at the four star accommodation, Hotel Magnolia Place. The views were mountains for days. Around the town, there’s loads of construction which displays the booming infrastructure for commercial and residential business. The last day led us to Port Montenegro. It’s a true city in the city. Whether it’s lunch at Divino or drinks by the Roche Hotel Beach Bar and Mala Bevende, the sea is right there. There’s something about water, it’s so calming. To end the day, we had dinner at Restoran Recoleta. The marvelous Marco took care of us with welcoming Montenegrin hospitality. Of course, we watched World Cup matches but also glanced at the local youth having their own pickup game in Magnolia square. Clearly the players were switched on in football mode.
It was a breath of fresh air to enjoy three different cities. I got to use my mobile and SLR for these photos and embrace the Montenegrin culture. The people were warm. The food was delicious. The drinks were delicious. The music was nice. It’s truly a beautiful and historically enticing place. Can’t wait to return to the one day. The mix of medieval and modern Montenegro is worth exploring more.