Montenegro Selection

M O N T E N E G R O S E L E C T I O N

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www.montenegro.travel

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intr oduction

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MONTENEGRO DRAMA This is perhaps the best word to describe what has happened in Montenegro, since its creation. Crystal clear seas, sandy beaches, high, wild mountains, fabulous high plains, unexpected abysses of canyons, brisk, strong flowing streams; quiet lakes, exciting fiords – it is unbelievable what can be found in an area smaller than 190 kilometres in diameter.

THE MOST This is perhaps the most important word in Montenegro. Inspiring a sense of uniqueness, pride and the sublime, nature's extreme beauty has found its expression in the collective awareness and behaviour of the people. Nature, almost bordering the extreme, has created a special kind of social psychology – Montenegrins are brave and proud, defiant and dedicated, and extremely hospitable. They strive to be the bravest, the smartest, the most beautiful, the best looking…

An epic people, if something like that can be understandable at the beginning of the 3rd millennium.

A MEETING POINT At the meeting point of East and West, Christianity and Islam, Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches, this small Adriatic and Mediterranean republic is again attracting serious attention from the international public at the beginning of the 21st century. For the entire 88 years it was hidden within Yugoslavia, totally devoted to the South Slavic union, the questioning of its self-awareness, and independence was recognizable throughout its history. Needless to say, this country had the longest tradition of statehood among the South Slavic countries.

RENAISSANCE By regaining its independence in 2006, Montenegro began reclaiming its international identity, and the world started rediscovering Montenegro. However, while in the 19th century it hit Europe as a surprise, an undefeated and inaccessible country invoking romantic feelings, since even the greatest oriental conquerors could not conquer it. At the beginning of the 21st century, the world media are revealing a different face of Montenegro – its exquisite beauties of nature, unique artistic and cultural values and great opportunities for an active and exciting holiday.

We dedicate this book to all those with exploring minds. To people who enjoy making discoveries.

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HOTEL LIFE NATURALLY, IT TOOK A WHILE BEFORE MONTENEGRIN HOTELS BECAME NEARLY AS BEAUTIFUL, GOOD, AND LUXURIOUS AS THE EXUBERANT NATURE OF MONTENEGRO. In the past several years, investors from all over the world have built a large number of luxurious four and five star hotels, thus providing the conditions for Montenegro to become a top world destination. The imposing hotel facilities along the Budva Riviera are top class and offer superb amenities.

On the other hand, the Bay of Kotor boasts medieval mansions, renaissance and baroque palaces, carefully reconstructed and turned into small, superior quality hotels. By preserving their historic significance, the cultural heritage of Kotor, Perast and Dobrota remain presidential and royal residencies and luxurious resorts.

The latest world trends in hotel design did not bypass the Montenegrin Riviera. Superb artistic interior and exterior design, architectural originality, a diversity of styles and uniqueness are some of the features of the new hotels.

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Aman Sveti Stefan

ROYAL SUMMER RESIDENCE S V E T I S T E FA N All the remaining doubts of Montenegro's becoming the most sought after destination in the world vanished when Aman Resorts, the world's leading luxury hotels chain, arrived. Through the meticulous restoration of the medieval island of Sveti Stefan and Villa MiloÄ?er, a former royal summer residence dating back to 1934, surrounded by 800 olive trees and 32 hectares of forests, Aman Resort proves that the power of luxury lies in the careful selection of details.

www.amanresorts.com

Villa MiloÄ?er, reopened in December 2008, features 5 rooms/ suites overlooking the sea and the island of Sveti Stefan, with classic wooden parquet floorings and wool rugs, leather armchairs, central fireplaces, bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs, combining wooden parquets and antique stones, with the lobby as a living room, the restaurant as adiningroom,andavast library, it retains the royal glow of old Europe together with the comforts of today.

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VILA MILOČER 11

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Great Hotels of the World

HIGH STYLE HOTELS BUDVA Built from scratch. While numerous large new luxury hotels all over the world start their business protected by brand names and the technologies of the multinational companies they belong to, the Splendid Hotel began based on the confidence of its owners that they could build a superb luxury hotel. In a world of powerful brands, that means – from nothing.

Located on the beach, as a beach holiday hotel, boasting sumptuous lobby, five bars, three restaurants, a 385 m² presidential suite, a private swimming pool, a 215 m² penthouse suite, 13 wellness suites, 84 m² open swimming pools, a high end conference centre, a 3000 m² spa centre, and numerous Turkish baths, saunas, Jacuzzis, fountains, cabins, fitness and massage facilities, the Splendid Hotel leads you to another, better world of magic and joy, and it may just happen that you forget to visit the place you came to see in Montenegro – the beach! And you really don't have to go – a world full of all sorts of joys is right here – at your disposal! This hotel is a member of the prestigious chain, Great Hotels of the World. www.montenegrostars.com

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www.montenegrostars.com, www.splendidspa-montenegro.com

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The First Designer Hotel

SMALL AND LUXURIOUS KO T O R On the edge of the old captains quarter Dobrota, on the very shore of one of the most beautiful bays of the Mediterranean, the Bay of Kotor, the first designer hotel in Montenegro was opened in summer 2008 – the Forza Mare Hotel. There are no more than 10 suites, differing in style and theme (Africa, India, Dubai, Japan, China‌are names of some of them); together with a wellness and spa centre; a restaurant and a pastry shop; the hotel offers superb service in the warm atmosphere of home, providing intimacy and hospitality so different from the purely professional.

The cakes of the Forza pastry shop already have a reputation throughout Montenegro, and the cuisine of the hotel restaurant is a source of the finest Italian and Mediterranean aromas.

www.forzamare.com

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SMALL AND LUXURIOUS 19

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Captain palaces

PALAZZO RADOMIRI KO T O R This baroque palace dating back to the beginning of the 18th century, is a true monument of culture, located in the captains quarters of Dobrota, nowadays turned into a unique 4 star boutique-hotel. Each of the ten rooms is named after the ships that belonged to the powerful Radimiri family throughout the centuries: Armellino, Glorioso, Speranza, Serpente, Teseo, Lecos, Fortunata... The decoration of each room is different, and the one thing they have common are the stone walls, the antique furniture and an exciting view of Kotor Bay. The palace is a private club, open only for the hotel guests. It is one of the few hotels that has its own yacht berth, for 6 yachts up to 20 meters long.

www.palazzoradomiri.com

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The Five Star Diamond Award

LUXURIOUS VILLAS SVETI STEFAN The only hotel in Montenegro that has won the Five Star Diamond Award of the American Hospitality Academy boasts the exceptional comfort and service characteristic of the world's most luxurious tourism centres. It has 11 rooms and suites (two presidential suites),arestaurant,abar,aswimmingpool,aTurkishbath,aJacuzzi, a sauna, a fitness room, a garage and a unique view of the island of Sveti Stefan. The presidential suite boasts a 156 m² surface area, including a living room, a kitchen, two bedrooms, three bathrooms (one with Jacuzzi), a large terrace with a view of the sea and its own elevator. Welcome!

www.villa-montenegro.com

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Luxurious Design Hotels

OVERLOOKING THE OPEN SEA BUDVA In the immediate vicinity of one of the most beautiful beaches in Montenegro, Mogren, close to the Old Town walls of Budva, the most exclusive hotel on the Adriatic has been erected, a unique combination of refined elegance and top comfort.

Besides superb rooms and sumptuous suites (presidential, executive, penthouse) the Avala Resort & Villas features luxurious villas connected to the hotel via mobile stairs. According to its guests, the spectacular view of the blue horizont, is reason enough to stay in this hotel. The open swimming pool, leaning over the sea, and surrounded by cypress trees contributes to the hotel's exclusivity.

www.avalaresort.com

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Boutique Hotels

THE LUXURY OF THE BAROQUE PERAST Up on a hill, in the fascinating ambiance of the baroque town of Perast, in a bay protected by UNESCO as a cultural and natural heritage site, overlooking the islands of Sveti Djordje and Gospa od Škrpjela, the Per Astra Hotel enables you to enjoy your stay in full privacy, whether you are here for a holiday, a weekend, a honeymoon, a team building event or just came to enjoy the vibrant cultural and artistic life of Kotor and the Kotor Bay.

www.hotelperastra.com

Situated about a hundred paces from the sea, and just five hundred metres away from the pinewood beach, Per Astra features 11 luxury suites of different interior design, covering areas from 49 m² to 107m². In peace and quiet, the intimate garden atmosphere invokes romantic feelings in the summer nights even within the most unromantic of souls; it offers among other things a restaurant where you decide on your menu together with the chef; a swimming pool; and a wellness and spa available 24/7. Plus, dynamic Kotor is only 15 kilometres away.

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City hotels

A HOTEL ON A RIVER PODGORICA This is a unique hotel in the centre of the city, but devoid of the usual city noise and rush, located on the Morača River bank, inconspicuous, melted into the environment, with Morača river pebbles covering its façade, with only two floors, in the immediate neighbourhood of the Parliament and Government of Montenegro.

With about forty luxury rooms and suites, a warm and intimate atmosphere, a top notch restaurant and service, this hotel, designed by the architect Svetlana Kana Radović, was built in 1967 and completely reconstructed in 2004. It represents a unique architectural attraction worth visiting, regardless of any plans to stay in it.

www.hotelpodgorica.co.me

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Luxury in the Mountains

UNITY WITH NATURE KO L A Ĺ I N There are only few hotels that can provide you with such a powerful relaxation as the Bianca Spa and Resort. In the bosom of Montenegro's mountains, in the mountain town of KolaĹĄin, only one hour away from Montenegro's capital, this hotel offers a place to enjoy yourself in calming and relaxing luxury in both summer and winter; in an environment built of carefully selected natural materials: stones from the Tara River, granite and the best wood from the local forests.

This is the central Montenegrin base for summer challenges such as hiking, biking, white water rafting, paragliding, off-road excursions, as well as winter challenges such as skiing, boarding, and sledding. It features 117 rooms and suites, 2 restaurants, 3 bars, a 25 metre long swimming pool, with a separate swimming pool for children, wellness and fitness centres, and a latest generation ski resort 10 kilometres from the hotel. www.biancaresort.com

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YACHTING THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO GET TO KNOW MONTENEGRO AND, ACCORDING TO YACHTING ENTHUSIASTS, THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WAY IS TO SEE IT FOR THE FIRST TIME FROM THE DECK OF A SAILING BOAT OR A YACHT. The elite marinas of Budva, Kotor, Bar and Tivat make this area of the Adriatic a Mecca for the owners of luxury vessels. Many vessels from the Top 100 Largest Yachts in the World have sailed into Montenegrin waters in the past few years, including: Roman Abramovich's Pelorus, Bernie Ecclestone's Petara, Paul Allen's Tatoosh and Air, Charles Simanyi's Skat…At Budva Marina moorings one can see the latest models of top boat builders Azimut, Riva, Sunseeker, Maiora, and Pershing all the time …

Porto Montenegro is going to be the top state-of-the-art elite nautical centre on the Mediterranean. It is currently under development, and its aim is to make the Bay of Kotor the “Porto Cervo” of the Adriatic, while Bar Marina currently has the largest berthing capacities for ships and mega-yachts. The marinas of these towns also boast shops of nautical equipment, cranes and special trailers for the transport of the vessels, and all the other services required for yachts and ships.

www.montenegro.travel/scms/media.php/12848/1248963378.pdf

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A New Nautical World

PORTO MONTENEGRO T I V AT A grand scale project exemplifying the vision of major businessmen is getting its initials contours. Porto Montenegro, a centre of elite nautical tourism, with a marina capable of accommodating mega yachts, two luxurious hotels, with numerous villas and suites, restaurants, shops and a full range of services, will no doubt become the most complete nautical town.

The first of its generation in this region of Europe, the marina is a state-of-the-art anchorage for luxurious mega yachts, ships and other expensive vessels, and it is just a part of the project the end result of which is currently presented through computer generated images. Out of a total of 800 berths, 6 will be reserved for ships longer than 100 metres, 200 have been designed for vessels longer than 50 metres, plus 450 more berths for smaller ships, and others for smaller vessels for sport and recreation. The largest nautical community on the Mediterranean, this investment by three well-known businessmen Peter Munk, Nathaniel Rothschild and Bernard Arnault, is worth over â‚Ź 6 million.

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http://www.portomontenegro.com

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PORTO MONTENEGRO 36

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Marina Budva

UPPER CLASS HARBOUR BUDVA Located in the metropolis of Montenegrin tourism, under the walls of the Old Town of Budva, the harbour was predestined to become what it is today – an elite marina, stopping and gathering point, and a place to parade some representative samples and the latest models of yachts from all over the world.

The Marina's advantage lies in its vicinity to the airports: Tivat is 20 and Podgorica 60 kilometres away; there are also the most luxurious hotels, many great beaches, restaurants and shops very close by. The average water depth is 7 to 8 metres, and there are 350 moorings available, out of which 120 are for yachts and 60 for speedboats.

www.marinabudva.com

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The Port and Marina of Kotor

IN A UNESCO PROTECTED BAY KO T OR At the furthest point of the only fiord of the Mediterranean and one of the most beautiful bays of the world, the Bay of Kotor, there are the port and marina of Kotor, nestled next to the Old Town walls.

Once predominantly commercial, nowadays serving passengers, the Kotor port has been Montenegro's main marine gateway for centuries. Large merchant ships have been replaced by transoceanic cruisers, luxury yachts and sailboats, while the bay and the town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attract thousands of passenger ships and yachts every year.

The bay's dramatic beauty, the proximity of airports (Tivat 10 km, Podgorica 85 km and Dubrovnik 65 km away) and the Old Town of Kotor, with its many restaurants, cafes, discos, and shops, make it one of the most popular marinas on the Adriatic. www.portofkotor.co.me

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Charters

YACHTING PODGORICA Renting a small or a bigger yacht in Montenegro was never really a problem. The Montenegro Charter Company however, is the first company in Montenegro involved exclusively in ship and helicopter chartering, and it does its job in a superbly professional manner.

The seat of the company is inland, in Podgorica, and the fleet is situated in the port of Kotor – 9 kilometres from the airport of Tivat, 65 kilometres from the airport of Dubrovnik and 90 kilometres from the airport of Podgorica.

The company offers a range of sailing boats between 10 and 17 metres in length (Sun Odyssey, Elan Impression etc, the oldest of them manufactured in 2006), several catamarans (Nautitech, Lagoon) and motor yachts. They are especially proud of the most luxurious yacht in their fleet – a Camper & Nicholson yacht for daily charter - M/Y ENDEAVOUR42.

The fastest way to reach the MCC fleet in the port of Kotor is by a MCC helicopter Eurocopter EC 120B. 42

www.montenegrocharter.com

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WHEN OPENING THEIR EYES, EVERY PERSON IN MONTENEGRO SEES THE MOUNTAINS. BARE OR WOODY, ROCKY OR FLAT, COVERED WITH SNOW OR GREEN VEGETATION, WATER RICH OR ARID, FERTILE OR BARREN. IF YOU KNOW WHERE A PERSON LIVES IN MONTENEGRO, YOU CAN TELL WHAT THEY EAT. The cuisine obeys the geography and takes what nature gives.

Loyal to tradition, and yet open to experiments. This is the ruling principle in the restaurants as well. You will find there a mosaic of European and Mediterranean cuisine, and the real spirit of Montenegro will be best felt when tasting the national dishes of the coastal, mountain and lake cuisines, that join together the best elements offered by nature.

You should try lamb or kid roasted under the bell, cream from Piva, a grape brandy. Try clear fish soup and boiled fish, roast carp and smoked bleak, prosciutto from Njeguši, cheese in oil, with a fresh vegetables mix. The best wine selection is Vranac or Krstač, and while the recommended desserts include sirnica, baklava, or fruit pie.

Breakfast is never skipped in Montenegro, and lunch is the main, and dinner the most ceremonial, daily meal.

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A Traditional Restaurant

TAVERN BUDVA

There were no households on the seaside that did not own a demijohn, a several litre glass bottle encased in wickerwork. It was used for keeping and transporting wine.

Whenhewasdecidingonthenameforhisrestaurant–afishtavern, Vido Markićević wanted to preserve the most important segments of the gastronomic tradition of the Montenegrin seaside, the thing that everyone was claiming to have, but in fact, had difficulties in achieving: to bring only the freshest food to the table, picked or caught that very day. This is something Vido Markićević is expert in. Everything that comes out of his kitchen passes the strictest criteria of celebrities, politicians, top managers, crowned heads and other regular guests of Demižana. That is why it will be extremely difficult to get a seat in his tavern, and once you get it, no one will measure your time spent at the table.

At Vido's, it is not the custom to ask for a menu and examine it, one should talk to waiters. They really know!

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Demižana Restaurant Slovenska obala 3 85310 Budva +382 33 455 028

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Gastronomic Experiences From Far Away

A JAPANESE RESTAURANT

BEČIĆI

Even though the local gastronomic public was convinced of the certainty of fiasco for the only Japanese restaurant on the Montenegrin seaside, after a year and a half of being in business, Promenada has managed to stake a prominent place on the restaurant map of Montenegro. One of the most fortunate elements of its success is its location, within the elite hotel complex of the Splendid Conference & Spa Resort that enjoys the great trust of refined clientele.

But, as it happens, the fate of the restaurant lies solely on its plates – they would either help to raise it to the gastronomic stratosphere or flatten it to the level of the average. Steve Pragmac, the restaurant chef, from a Filipino father and a Japanese mother, never ceases to amaze his regular guests as well as numerous Montenegrin cooks with his masterful dishes with tuna, salmon, eel, shrimp, octopus, sea bass, mackerel, or beef steak. Mouthwatering recipes such as: dragon roll with eel, tempura roll with shrimp, hosomaki roll, Gunkan-maki, sashimi, miso soup, teryiaki tuna, soba miso, tonkatsu, yaseitame, yakimeshi…are only some of the specialties on the carefully selected menu.

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www.montenegrostars.com

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Overlooking the 12th C entury C athedral

FISH RESTAURANT KOTOR

Opened in the period of socialism, in the mid-seventies, and completely renovated after an ownership change in 2007, the restaurant Galion is living its moments of glory. The restaurant has managed to retain the good old spirit of Galion, but with a contemporary twist, with two terraces, one of them closed and airconditioned, to be ready for use in every season, and it now reminds one of a modern and mighty ship moored in the peaceful harbour facing the city walls of Kotor.

Veal and tuna carpaccio with Provencal dressing; penne with chicken, zucchini, pepper and Porcini sauce; shrimp with seasonal vegetables, potatoes and three Galion type sauces – this could be an appropriate menu to indulge in after touring the Old Town of Kotor. The Galion custard pie, or the trilogy consisting of chocolate cake with ice-cream and chocolate mousse, could be the perfect finish. All this accompanied by a view of the Old Towns rooftops, St Triphon Cathedral and the pulsating life of Kotor harbour and marina.

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Fish restaurant Galion Ĺ uranj, 85330 Kotor +382 32 325 054

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Mlini – the Heritage Keepers

SINCE 1670 LJUTA, KOTOR

Whenever you get a chance to visit a restaurant that has the word Mlini in its name, don't miss it! It signifies old stone houses, built on powerful water springs and torrents, with plenty of greenery and a gristmill – an ambiance that is always relaxing. And with mills in the Kotor Bay, this also means that they are on a river and the sea at the same time!

Stari Mlini restaurant is located only 7 kilometres from Kotor, at the Ljuta river spring, Ljuta being one of the shortest rivers with underground streams in Europe. The mill dates back to 1670, and since 1976 it has been owned by the Djurica family who have turned it into a restaurant devoted to the careful preservation of traditional Boka cuisine. The cheese is kept in stone pots over 200 years old; there are plenty of trout in the pond, and sea fish keeps arriving every minute, as soon as it is caught by neighbouring fishermen. We recommend the mix of cheeses kept in grains and oil, eggplant prepared in the local manner, and for the main dish: gilthead or octopus under the bell with plenty of potatoes and vegetables. One has to wait a while, but it is always worth waiting for any dish that comes from under the bell. And for the dessert – Dobrota cake with almonds and maraschino.

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www.starimlini.me

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Mlini - More than a Restaurant

NATURE PARK MORINJ Old stone houses, large terraces, lush vegetation, many fresh water streams, ducks and pheasants, the entrance through a reed tunnel; dentice, gilthead, sea bass, clams, lobsters, shrimps, prosciutto, cheese…on the table; it is the shortest description of Ćatovića Mlini. Another gristmill, owned by the Ćatović family for over 200 years, turned into a restaurant – a tavern managed by the son, Lazar Ćatović, a place that made famous the name of the small seaside village Morinj throughout Europe. The menu strictly observes the high standards of Boka cuisine, but at the same time, it is openly Mediterranean: smoked cheese with oregano, Toscana, Calabrese, and Nicoise salad, tuna and shrimp carpaccio, smoked salmon spaghetti, angler fish in Provencal or gorgonzola sauce, paella with vegetables, shrimp and angler fish….to name but a few of the many temptations this restaurant offers. www.catovicamlini.me

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Restaurant

ITALIAN RESTAURANT PODGORICA Maša opened a new chapter in the development of culinary arts and the restaurant business in Montenegro. Montenegrins could finally enjoy there the delights reserved previously for Roma, Milan or Bari. The spirit of Italian cuisine, with dishes prepared from ingredients that daily arrive from Italy by boat, entered Montenegro in a big style.

Fish carpaccio, beef carpaccio, caprese salad, shrimp salad with arugula, melon, champignons and tomato; tagliatelle with fish fillet and zucchini, lobster filled ravioli, fish in salt, fish tagliata with arugula, scallops with lamb, beef steak with ground black truffles, are just some of the dishes that illustrate the character of Maša's cuisine. The menu is rich and extensive, the wine list is one of the best, and everything on the table is always of superb quality. When not in Podgorica, you may also visit the Maša summer edition in Budva marina.

Maša Restaurant Boulevard Sv. Petra Cetinjskog 31 Podgorica, +382 20 224 460

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Café Restaurant Hotel

INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT BUDVA This café, restaurant and hotel, opened in mid 2007, became the top style spot in the Montenegro's top style destination map in just a few months. Its leading position the Astoria has achieved was firstly due to it being located in the city centre, inside the walls, next to the main entrance to the Old Town of Budva, then, by a top post-modern interior design of a hotel and café restaurant; by its unique rooftop terrace, but mostly by its noble atmosphere and international culinary offerings. Nothing can be added, nor deducted from the Caesar salad (made with grilled chicken, bacon and anchovies); beef steak pieces and crusty vegetables in Thai salad topped by piquant vodka orange dressing; the rice in nasi goring rested aside the desired couple of hours. The pork fillet in sesame and prune sauce, the Cajun chicken roll, Spanish paella with saffron or penne Toscana are the dishes that provide you with the possibility of the finest of culinary journeys. www.hotelastoria.co.me

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Cafe Bar

GRAND CAFÉ PODGORICA

Comfortable leather armchairs, the famous faces of the guests, the silent waiters, plenty of luxury cars in the parking lot… The Grand Café is a place frequented by senior politicians, businessmen, journalists and artists. At some point during the day you will have the opportunity to meet the owners of large companies, famous journalists and actors, but also various politicians of the highest rank. This is a fashionable spot that provides you with a peaceful atmosphere conducive to serious and confidential business and political discussions.

Grand Cafe Bulevar Svetog Petra Cetinjskog 21, Podgorica + 382 20 248 258

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The Hedonistic Symbol of Montenegro

VRANAC PODGORICA If in the tough competition among grape brandy, prosciutto from Njeguši, cheese from Njeguši and local red wine one has to select a hedonistic symbol of Montenegro, then it must be Vranac. A superb quality dry red wine from Montenegro, of dark ruby colour with shades of purple. Extractive, of full taste, mildly tannic, with a scent of berries. It is generally accepted as a symbol of strength, masculinity and skilfulness, and the Vranac Reserve by Plantaže 13 Jul has a place of honour reserved in that field. Out of respect, Montenegrins drink this wine on the occasion of celebrations.

From the especially good years, a small quantity of wine is reserved, kept in a dark place at a constant temperature of 15°C, to let the wine ferment in the containers. After bottling, the wine rests for atleastanotheryear,andonlyafterthatitisbroughttothemarket.

The wine is served at a temperature of 18-20°C. It is recommended to have the bottle opened at least half an hour before use, and slowly poured into decanters. That is when the best characteristics of this wine are fully displayed. It can be drunk throughout the meal, but it is recommended for the end, with good cheeses and all sorts of cakes.

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www.plantaze.com

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A Matter of Honour

INSTITUTE’S BRANDY PODGORICA It is not known how many grape brandy distilleries there are in Montenegro. Besides many official, registered manufacturers of the national drink, there is a parallel world, full of small distilleries, in which grape brandy is produced according to recipes passed on through generations. Making a good brandy was almost a matter of honour for a traditional household.

The grape brandy is a traditional Montenegrin produce, and the Biotechnical Institute of Podgorica is using a special recipe to make limited quantities of it at the trial field in Lješkopolje. Their brandy is popularly called “Institute's brandy”. The grape brandy is a strong alcoholic drink with no colour, with 50 % ABV, made from autochthonous varieties of vranac and kratošija. Its exquisite smell, extraordinary smoothness and harmony make it special.

All these qualities are the end result of the traditional methods of distilling, in addition to observing the latest scientific principles and standards of manufacturing. It is best combined with prosciutto, dried meat and cheese. It is drunk refrigerated, as an appetizer, and the custom to drink one glass “for health” in the morning, prior to breakfast, is still alive in Montenegro.

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30 Meters under the Ground

WINE CELLAR

PODGORICA

Only 30 kilometres from the seaside, in the vicinity of Podgorica, a huge Montenegrin treasure is carefully kept and preserved – two million litres of superb Montenegrin wines: Vranac, Merlot, Cabernet, Krstač, Chardonnay, Sauvignon, aged 3 to 10 years.

The treasury of the wine cellar Šipčanik, opened in late 2007, is located some thirty metres under the surface of the Šipčanik hill, in the remains of a former subterranean military airport. It is shaped like a tunnel, 356 metres long, with an air temperature ranging from 17 to 19°C and a humidity of 70 to 80%. It consists of a wine cellar, a wine tasting room, and a specialized shop. The cellar is open all year round.

2, Put Radomira Ivanovića 81000 Podgorica www.plantaze.com

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Symbols of Montenegro

PROSCIUTTO NJEGUŠI It is the first item on the menu of every restaurant in Montenegro.

Indispensable on the table of every host. For a real gourmet, the magic of the prosciutto grows into a hedonistic ritual, eaten together with dry Njeguši cheese, olives and wine, and with a glass of the famous Montenegrin grape brandy or mead it turns the meal into a complete gastronomic joy.

The prosciutto is made of pork, and its special taste and aroma are due to the mixture of sea and mountain air and the wood used for its drying. Even though the entire region under Lovćen is involved in the production of prosciutto and kastradina (dried mutton), the village of Njeguši, the birthplace of the Petrović dynasty, located at an altitude of 900 metres, is the centre of the production of this national cuisine symbol and a must-see location for every visitor to Montenegro.

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Symbols of Montenegro

CHEESE NJEGUŠI

It is a guardian of heritage and a great delicacy. The cheese making tradition in this area, together with its quality and experience passed on through generations, made the cheese a necessary and favourite part of every meal. It is excellent in combination with prosciutto and kastradina. Olives give it a new flavour, but it can also be served separately, with almost every wine.

Njeguši cheese is kept in a cold and airy place for up to three months prior to consumption. A special charm and aroma is achieved from a wooden tub, the container in which it is put in to age, covered with a lid and a stone. A famous specialty is also the “cheese in oil” which is after drying, immersed in olive oil and kept in glass or stone containers for at least 60 days prior to serving.

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PERHAPS NOTHING CAN REVEAL THE SPIRIT OF ONE COUNTRY BETTER THAN THE LIFESTYLE OF ITS INHABITANTS. FASHIONABLE, CONTEMPORARY AND TRENDY IS THE WAY OF LIFE IN MONTENEGRO, INTERTWINED WITH THE CENTURIES OLD DESIRE FOR CONNECTIONS AND TOGETHERNESS AS A DOMINANT CHARACTERISTIC. The need for connecting has left its mark in contemporary culture, and the unique social habits have resulted in a large number of festivals, social and cultural happenings, customs, rituals and events.

The attendance is always great. The cafés and taverns, squares and streets, restaurant terraces, theatres and open stages, these are the gathering points of both inhabitants and guests at any time of day and year. Film, theatrical, classical music festivals, pop music concerts, exhibitions, carnivals, sporting events and other happenings unique to Montenegro provide only a hint of the rhythm of life in this country.

Whereas the fundamental values of the Montenegrins – honour, honesty, togetherness – have remained the same throughout the centuries, some new values and behaviours, related to the arrival of the consumer society to Montenegro, have also found fertile ground here. There was no place for doubt that the people who embroidered their clothes with gold in the 19th century, would indulge in the most modern and the most luxurious technical achievements in the 21st century. Indeed, it is difficult to imagine that so many luxury cars, motorcycles, yachts, lap tops, mobile phones and other such stuff could be seen in such great numbers anywhere elsewhere in one place.

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VIP AIRLINE PODGORICA The Vektra Aviation Bombardier BD-100-1A10 Challenger 300, a luxurious super-mid-sized jet, with a capacity of 8 to 16 travellers, has become one of the favourite objects of hobby photographers of airplanes (www.planepictures.net, www.airliners.net), and at the same time the favourite jet plane of the top business and politics clients. By signing annual contracts with the governments in the region and the largest companies in Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Macedonia, Croatia, Italy, Austria and Germany, Vektra Aviation has achieved a high rating in business aviation and secured its future. With 4 planes of the highest business class, a 2.500m2 hangar and a state-of-the-art VIP terminal of 600 m² , the company is able to provide the highest quality service for other airlines from Europe and the world.

The company seat is at the airport in Podgorica. www.vektraaviation.co.me

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Non - Mainstream Festivals

REFRESH FESTIVAL KOTOR

At the end of July and the beginning of August, while at the Kotor Art Festival, the attentive audiences in the churches of Kotor, sit motionless and enjoy the music of Mozart, Chopin, Bach, Beethoven and Debussy, a few hundred metres away and a few hours later, five thousand young people dance and reach delirium with the sounds produced by the world's most famous DJs and Balkan pop and rock bands. The Maximus discotheque is the source of yet another wave of new energy and refreshment – the Refresh Festival, a festival that has managed to achieve an international reputation in just three years.

OntheDJstageinMaximus,onecanseeinternationalstarssuchas - Sharam, Dave Clarke, Hernan Cattaneo, Ian Pooley, Lottie, Robert Owens, Adam Beyer, Darren Emerson, Bob Sinclair... Balkan stars perform at the Citadella live stage and on the Hip Hop stage - Van Gogh, Massimo, Cubismo, Edo Maajka, Wikluh Sky... www.refreshfestival.com

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ART MUSIC FESTIVAL The strong, centuries long music tradition of Kotor was bound to produce a music festival, which, immediately upon its start (established as an independent cultural initiative) became the leading art music festival in Montenegro. Thanks to Kotor Art, masterpieces like Bethoven's Ninth Symphony, Mozart's Requiem, or Dvorak's From the New World, were performed in Montenegro for the first time.

For the last seven years in a row, in the period between mid-July and mid-August, Kotor became a capital of classical music, its squares and churches turned into the most refined music stages.

The concert spaces such as the square in front of the cathedral or the St Tryphon Cathedral (12th century), the church of Blessed Ozana (13th century), the island Gospa od Skrpjela, the church of the Holy Spirit in Prcanj (18-19th century), the Skaljari market square, the church of St Joseph's square and others, would be envied by any city in the world. The chamber orchestra and choir have had the privilege of almost continuous performing, some top world soloists, conductors and orchestras have also made guest appearances: the Bohemian Symphony Orchestra of Prague; the London Piano Trio; the Swedish baroque ensemble Villancico; the Belgrade Percussionists; the conductors Claudio Vandelli, Italy; Alex Inecco, USA; Carlos Garcia-Ruiz, Mexico; Darinka Matić Marović, along with the artistic director of the Festival, pianist Ratimir Martinović, are just some of the names that have made and will continue to make, Kotor Art memorable.

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JAZZ FESTIVAL

P E T R O V AC

Thanks to the non-governmental organization Urban Cult and radio anchor and DJ Vinko Mihajlović, in the past three years, at the end of August and beginning of September, the small quiet town of Petrovac, has become the jazz centre of Montenegro. Numerous concerts, performances, workshops and exhibitions dedicated to jazz and blues music, bring back the atmosphere of refinement to the dreamy coastal town, and open new horizons of pleasure to the lovers of true jazz. All the concerts are held in the open, on the terraces of the Memorial House Crvena Komuna, Castello bar, Sutjeska and Kuba cafes. The entire festival is the result of the dedication and enthusiasm of its organizers. Michaela Rabitsch & Robert Pawlik the Jazz Quartet, from Austria; the jazz-fusion band Djabe, Hungary; the Trio Balkan Strings, Serbia; the Aga Zaryan Quartet, Poland; the Georgi Sareski Quartet, Macedonia; the Jennifer Bryce Trio, USA; the B2Blues, Croatia; the Point Blank Blues Band, Serbia ... are some of the participants of the Petrovac Jazz Festival. http://petrovacjazzfestival.tripod.com/montenegro/

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Festival Theatre City

GRAND FESTIVAL For 23 years, the festival Grad theatre - Theatre City has been the highlight of the summer cultural seasons of Montenegro. From July 1 to August 31 streets, squares, fortresses and churches of the Old Town of Budva, the largest tourism centre of Montenegro, become a stage for actors, musicians and painters from all over the world, where they create a new, virtual world of artistic truth.

The play that enjoyed great publicity throughout the 23rd Festival Theatre City, had its premier almost a month after the festival finished, in Cetinje! The reasons for such publicity were many: Shakespeare's tragedy Othello, the leading roles played by legends of Montenegrin and Serbian theatre; two former ministers of culture, of Montenegro and Serbia: Branislav Popović and Branislav Lečić; the dramaturge from the Belgrade National Theatre, Željko Hrubac; International Festival of Sarajevo involved in coproduction, and the director coming from a famous Montenegrin artistic family, the same age as the festival, twenty-three year old Veljko Mićunović…The co-production of Theatre City, Royal Theatre Zetski Dom of Cetinje and MESS Sarajevo will be shown in the course of the following year to audiences in Budva, Cetinje, Podgorica, Sarajevo and Belgrade.

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Landmarks

CITY TAVERN HERCEG NOVI This is one of the symbols of Herceg Novi, a six centuries old city located at the entrance to the Kotor Bay. It used to be the sports and cultural centre Sokolski Dom, then a cinema, and today it is a city tavern – an indispensable gathering place for Novi inhabitants and tourists.

This unique example of the Vienna Secession in this part of the Mediterranean, the tavern is located in the centre of Herceg Novi, in the immediate vicinity of the Old Town, enjoying a dominating location above the city harbour, with terraces offering an unforgettable view of the entrance to the Bay, and from which every serious tourist must take a photo. At the same time, this building is partially surrounded by the lush vegetation of the city park, a century old arboretum, established at the beginning of the last century. www.hercegnovi.travel

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FASHION Any research on the causes of the extremely highly developed fashion scene in Montenegro must not exclude the origins, social function and historical importance of the national costumes.

Montenegrin national costumes, dating back to the 15th century, are very opulent, elegantly cut, with daring colour combinations and rich gold embroidery; it is thought to be among the most expensive national garments in the world. By preserving opulence, and accentuating the colours and richness of their costumes, Montenegrins tried to spite and save their identity in the face of the then governing force in Europe, demanding its vassals to dress in modest clothes of minimum colour.

The need to stress their freedom-loving attitude, and identity as well as the need to be different resulted in the high fashion awareness of the nation, and the exceedingly rich fashion scene. Hundreds of shops abounding with the latest models of the most expensive world brands, tens of fashion festivals and fashion weeks, happenings and fashion shows, along with the fashion hyper-sensibility of Montenegrins initiated the arrival of world famous fashion designers to Montenegro...

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Glamorous Festivals

INTERNATIONAL FASHION FESTIVAL KO T O R The world's top names of the fashion industry (designers and brands); an antique Adriatic town under UNESCO protection; the 12th century cathedral surroundings; accompanied by a superb producer – the Fabrika fashion agency – is the formula for success of the glamorous International Fashion Festival, held every late July in Kotor. The festival is the largest fashion event in Eastern Europe, and its contents are regularly covered by Vogue, Vanity Fair, La Repubblica, Fashion TV and other media.

In the past 11 years, Christian Dior, Thierry Mugler, Gai Mattiollo, Calvin Klein, Escada , Egon Von Furstenberg, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Gattinoni, Alviero Martini, Cerrui 1881, Max Mara, Renato Balestra, Rocco Barocco, Revillon, Romeo Gigli, Yannos Xenis and many others, have shown their creations here.

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Famous Fashion Designers

MARINA NIKOLIĆ BANOVIĆ PODGORICA "My name is Marina Banović. I am a fashion designer, living and working in Montenegro. I graduated from the Fashion Design Department of the Faculty for Design in Belgrade. I have had eleven collections so far. My work is characterized by ethnic motifs originating from this area, and that is something that lends my collection a particular impressiveness and originality. The most important collection, without doubt, is the one shown in Rome, within the high fashion week AltaRoma AltaModa; there were also Belgrade, Zagreb, Thesaloniki, Kotor… ." Marina wrote as a response to our letter. Since Montenegro is a country of three great cultures: Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Islamic, Marina's field of ethnic exploration is inexhaustible.

Marina Nikolić Banović has a serious international career ahead of her, and in Montenegro she already has a status similar to sport icons – Montenegro is proud of her. www.marinabanovicnikolic.com

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In the style of elite destinations, at the same time as in European metropolises and in line with the latest world trends. Every town in Montenegro has its own fashionable places and events that are synonymous for a crazy good time and extraordinary night life, attracting floods of visitors every year.

The Maximus discotheque in Kotor, extremely popular for its location and design, is leading in the performances of world famous DJs. The desire for abundant nightlife entertainment culminates right here, through the Refresh Festival, held in July and August.

The discotheque Miracle Lounge is hidden among the hills near Budva, and that is the source of incredible acoustic possibilities; Bob Sinclair was the first to perform here, and followed by many other big music names, gathering thousands of visitors at each party. There are also Velvet, Trocadero, Emporio, and the line continues...

Besides famous discotheques, luxury hotels, night clubs, bars and cafes, the real magic is experienced under the starry nights, on the beaches that are the epicentres of fun during the summer time. The rhythms of the music from all directions mix with the hypnotising sounds of waves and the sea breeze, and give a completely newdimensiontothenightlifefromonenighttothenext.

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Discotheque

CENTRE OF NIGHT LIFE KO T O R Maximus is one of the best equipped and the most attractive discotheques in this part of Europe. Its location is the Old Town centre, on the corner of the Square of Arms, literally built into the mighty walls of the town. There are 4 conceptually different units within the discotheque, where over 4,000 people can enjoy themselves until the early morning hours.

Envisaged as a discotheque that meets all the standards of the state-of-the-art night clubs all over the planet, Maximus set their goals high, and achieved them, as well. The complex has the latest technological developments in sound and lighting, as well as computerized air conditioning that maintains the optimum temperature and air freshness in all climate conditions. Top quality service is available at any of the numerous well equipped bars, the professional and responsible security operatives, attractive dancers and other club personnel are there to provide all the requirements necessary for an unforgettable night on the Adriatic. Regional pop stars frequently perform here, but there are also world famous DJs like David Morales, a legend of the world house scene.

The organization of the Refresh Festival helped Maxiumus become well known outside of the borders of Montenegro

http://discomaximus.com

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Clubbing

URBAN CLUB PODGORICA

The cafe club and discotheque Velvet is located in the heart of Montenegro's capital, in Bokeška street, proud of receiving several thousand visitors since its opening, along with numerous DJ performances.

Each Saturday, this is a meeting point of house music fans, and on other days one can hear only foreign music. The choice of music, the assortment of drinks, the numerous women guests, and the overall atmosphere make Velvet perhaps the most refined club in Montenegro. By gathering together renowned local and foreign guests, and representatives of the business, political and diplomatic community, Velvet gained a prestigious position in the intellectual and business circles of the capital.

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Different from all others, the Maestral has a special atmosphere of pleasant excitement and anticipation caused not only by the sunrises witnessed on one of the most beautiful beaches on the Adriatic, in the old fishermen village of Pr탑no, the traditional Thai massages of its wellness centre, or its thematic culinary offerings.

The real excitement comes at night, when the lights and sounds of 120 slot machines, 3 electronic roulettes, American roulette tables, Midi Punto Banco, Black Jack, Progressive Draw Poker, Chemin de Fer and Texas Hold'em Poker, raise the pulses of people eager to respond to the challenges of the games, and when the melodies of local and foreign pop stars from the casino's stage bring forth the emotions. The Casino is open 24 hours a day, and the gaming tables work from midnight to 5.00 A.M. The hotel is open all year round.

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The perfect balance of mind, soul and body is the wellness philosophy of the new age, whereas health and beauty care is one of the priorities of the contemporary lifestyle.

The Maestral Hotel of Pr탑no boasts several swimming pools, Turkish and Roman baths, as well as a centre of the soothing Thai massage. Offered are several sensual relaxation programs as well, like bathing in thermal Jacuzzi waters and aromatic oils. In the opulent ambiance of the Splendid Spa Resort, there is a spectrum offacialandbodytreatmentsoffered,suchasexotictreatmentwith flowers; the hot saunas, solariums, Sabia Med Sun and the experience showers which invigorate both body and soul. The fitness rooms in the Queen of Montenegro Hotel are true bases for energy collecting, and in the wellness centre of the Mediteran Hotel the thalassotherapy and relaxing massages will bring you to full harmony with yourself. In the Bianca Hotel Spa, Taiyang offers holistic treatments based on the Ayurvedic, Asian and western therapies for relaxation, rejuvenation and inspiration. With the calming view of the thick evergreen forest, this wellness centre is a shelter for your body and soul. A world of endless satisfaction, with the complete sense of health, beauty and happiness.

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Health & Happy

WELLNESS & SPA B E Č I Ć I Only after visiting this centre, even for half a day, you will begin to understand the power of the wellness movement, and of the slogan “awake your senses”. At over 3000m² there is a large swimming pool with Jacuzzi, a small swimming pool for children, a medium swimming pool, a gym, a fitness centre, a Hammam, a dry float room, solariums, spa suites (VIP suite, king suite, rasul suites...) saunas with a sea view (biosauna with pinewood, Finnish sauna, mild sauna..), an ice fountain, a Sabia Med sand, a snow cabin, experience showers, a steam bath with Swarovski crystals, a SPA cosmetics shop, a relaxation zone with waterbeds and so on and so forth. A top luxury spa experience. Impressive by all standards!

www.splendidspa-montenegro.com

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Bianca Resort & Spa

TAIYANG SPA KOLAĹ IN

The winner of the national Wild Beauty Award 2005 for the best new hotel was the first to set the highest wellness standards in Montenegro. Starting with natural materials, the local wood and stone used in the hotel construction, the organic ingredients used in its restaurants, all the way to the Turkish bath, saunas, fitness centre and indoor, Olympic size swimming pools, it radiates the feeling of health and wellbeing.

Located at an altitude of 954 metres, in the heart of the Montenegrin mountains, this hotel embraced the balance of mind, body and soul, and care for health and beauty as its basic motto. The holistic treatments based on Ayurvedic, Asian or western therapies are provided by professional therapists from the Philippines.

Aromatherapy, Balinese, Hawaiian, or Thai massage, reflexo-therapy, facial massage, wild lavender peeling...it is just a matter of your preference. www.biancaresort.com

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BEACHES Theintactnaturalserenityinsomeofthecoveshiddenbysurrounding mountains, or the modern beach complexes with the latest facilities, are interchangeably lined up along the Montenegrin coast.

The choice depends on personal preferences.

There is only a little bit over two hours drive from the finest hot sand of the Long Beach of Ulcinj, through the fascinating Budva Rivierabeaches,tothenarrowpavedbeachesandjettiesofHerceg Novi, and none of the places should be skipped. The secretive sunny inlets of the Bay of Kotor with the scent of the sea and touch of the summer breeze make for almost one big beach all along its coast.

Luxurious hotels have turned their sandy and pebble beaches into even more luxurious complexes for rest and relaxation, with the view of the blue open sea. Surrounded by pine trees, rocks, medieval buildings, or the urban city rhythm, all these beaches have one thing in common: their diversity and quality attract tourists from all over the world.

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Famous Beaches

SVETI STEFAN S V E T I S T E FA N

On the shore, facing the island of Sveti Stefan, the most attractive spot of the Montenegrin seaside, split by the isthmus that connects the island to the land, there are two sandy beaches of magical beauty. Your view from the comfortable deck chairs set on the fine reddish sand, contrasting the blue of the sea and the sky, goes to the open sea, and the island-town-hotel, a world elite resort. In your background, lines of restaurants, cafes, a diving club, tennis courts, and a Mediterranean park...

A few hundred metres away, separated by the cliffs overgrown with woodland, two beaches of immaculate beauty are to be found – MiloÄ?er and Queen's Beach, once royal residence beaches.

Hidden from the public eye, this area is also today a favourite resort of exclusive guests from all over the world. www.amanresorts.com/amansvetistefan/home.aspx www.montenegro.travel

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Hidden Beaches

KRALJIČINA PLAŽA BAR Once a favourite of the Montenegrin Queen, Milena Petrović, the Queen's Beach lies hidden in the immediate vicinity of Čanj, on the way from Budva to Bar. Surrounded by cliffs, it is reachable only from the sea, by cruiser, yacht or a sailing boat.

The environment, the fine sand and the crystal clear sea make it one of the most beautiful beaches of the Montenegrin Riviera and a prefect spot for absolute relaxation. According to tradition, one comes here early in the morning, and leaves only late at night. A nudist beach is in the immediate vicinity.

www.montenegro.travel

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PLAŽA MILOČER MILOČER, SVETI S TEFAN One of the most beautiful beaches on the Mediterranen is surrounded by a forest and park area of 32 hectares. Olives, pines, cypresses and exotic varieties such as Lebanese cedar, tropical mimosa, Japanese medlar, cacti, agaves, pittosporums and others make it one of the most beautiful parks and arboretums in the Adriatic, providing a unique background for the beach.

The beach is 280 metres long, facing Sveti Stefan and the open sea, covered with round pebble sand, differing in size as you go from one end of the beach to the other. If you look from the shore, the small pebbles are on the right side, and the marvellous red sand is spread out on the opposite side of the beach. A small quay is cut in cliffs on the right end of the beach, which makes it possible for barges and smaller boats to dock.

The stone wall separates the beach from the former residence of the Yugoslav king Aleksandar Karadjordjević – today it is the luxury Aman Resorts Miločer Hotel. www.montenegro.travel

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Modern Beaches

ALMARA BEACH TIVAT The most attractive and the most luxurious beach club on the Montenegrin coast, Almara Beach Club is located 12 kilometres away from Tivat and Kotor, far from city beaches and crowds, in the lonely cove of Oblatno.

The sumptuous club design features white baldachins, green pines, a blue sea and fine sand on the beach, all adding up to a heavenly spot of your holiday. The club restaurant is led by the excellent Italian chef Francesco Ruggiero. There is also wireless internet connection available for those who cannot survive without that kind of surfing.

www.almara-beach.com

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Unadorned Nature

VELIKA PLAŽA ULCINJ Twelve kilometres of the finest hot sand are a reason enough to visit Ulcinj and its Long Beach. It starts two kilometres south of Ulcinj, ending at the Bojana River estuary to the sea. The beach complexes: Copacabana, Tropicana, Safari Beach, Miami Beach and others all treat this gift of nature with respect – the parasols, deck chairs, cabins, cafés, restaurants and all the beach furniture are made of wood, reed, palm branches and stone.

At the beach's end, where the Bojana river flows into the sea, there is a nature reserve, the island of Ada Bojana. Surrounded partly by the river, and partly by the sea, it abounds with wood cabins and restaurants lined up along the river, and a tourism village on the island. Ada Bojana is a hideaway from contemporary life and mass tourism.

www.montenegro.travel

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ACTIVE HOLIDAY Sky, earth, and water. This small country poses a great challenge to people who seek action and adventure. Easy adventures, like water skiing, sailing, big game fishing, windsurfing, coastal biking, rafting in July and August, or heavier, stronger action – scuba diving, white water rafting in April and May, paragliding, canyoning, rock climbing...

Mountaineering on the Durmitor or Prokletije, or Bjelasica mountains, biking through the national parks of the Skadar Lake, Lovćen, Biogradska Gora, or Durmitor, a two-day Tara rafting trip, with an overnight stay in one of the camping sites by the river; diving in the Bay of Kotor, kite surfing on the Long Beach, fishing from one of the numerous jetties, or just swimming in a crystal clear waters of the Montenegro Riviera, all these will feed your exploratory spirit, and provide you with utter peace and enjoyment.

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Active Holiday JUŽNI JADRAN A boat with strong engines is desirable, between 6 and 15 metres long, with a flat low stern, between 3 and 4 metres wide, holders for a large number of rods, and rods between 8 and 12 lb and 1.2 and 2 metres long. The reels should have the capacity of at least 300 metres of 0.80 mm nylon of decron line.

With a few more technical details, you are set for one of the greatest thrills the South Adriatic has to offer, and it is a matter of personal choice whether you use a natural bait or artificial lures. At a depth of over 100 metres, there are bluefin tuna (record catch 220 kg), broadbill and swordfish, while greater amberjack (up to 70 kg) and leer fish (up to 30 kg) can be found near the coast.

Info: "Monti Mare Shop" Stari grad Budva +382 (0)33 402 466 (0)69 021 922

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Excitement of Discovery

UNDERWATERSOUTHERN DIVING ADRIATIC "The excitement of archaeological discoveries is storming Montenegro! The US explorer ship Hercules discovered two ships from the Roman period in the Bay of Kotor, in the deep sea bottom area.

One of the ships, largely preserved, which was transporting roof tiles and panels for houses, originates back to the 1st century BC. Another one, from the 3rd century AC, was transporting amphorae". This news was published in June 2009, and is just one of many similar reports that emerge in the Montenegrin and regional media every couple of years.

The great depths and clear seas, steep karst shore with lots of smaller caves, rocky and rugged coastal bottoms, sandy only on the far south, lots of antique, medieval and war ships of the first half of the 20th century, plenty of corals and flora – these are the dominant characteristic of the southern Adriatic area. The summer temperature of the sea is mostly in the 21-25° C range, which enables comfortable diving, while in the winter months it is rarely below 13° C. The salinity is 36 ‰, and visibility is 15-35 metres.

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Info: "Monti Mare Shop" Stari grad Budva +382 (0)86 402 466 www.montenegro.travel (0)69 021 922

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Active Holiday

SNOW BASE MT. DURMITOR It is a fascinating mountain range, with nature of exquisite value.

From the plateau at an altitude of 1,500 metres, with a length of 20 kilometres, it is surrounded by the canyons of the Tara, Piva, Sušica and Komarnica, in some spots reaching up to 1,300 metres in depth, and there are fifty peaks higher than 2,000 metres. With more than 20 glacial lakes, the highest of them at an altitude of 2,200 metres, the town of Žabljak at an altitude of 1,450 metres, thick evergreen and deciduous forests, black pines fifty metres high, 1,325 plant species; otters, roes, chamois, bears, wolves, lynx, eagles, vultures..., numerous high mountain katuns, and ski pistes, it was proclaimed a national park in 1952, and since 1980 it has been a Natural and Cultural World Heritage Site protected

by UNESCO. The power and strength of this mountain massif also lies in: peaceful kilometres long winter walks, sledding on the frozen lakes, fishing through the thick ice holes, Nordic and Alpine skiing, snowboarding, snow kiting, and all types of extreme sports on snow. On this mountain, you can always find your thing.

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Kolašin 1450 Ski Resort

STATE-OF-THE-ART SKIING MT. BJELASICA

Only 9 kilometres away from Kolašin, on Mount Bjelasica, there is the trendiest Montenegrin ski resort – the Kolašin 1450 Ski Resort.

Boasting a new six-seat Doppelmayer ski lift, ski routes that go up to an altitude of 2,000 metres, 15 kilometres of which are new and designed and developed in compliance to the strictest European standards, Kolašin is now in the range of the most modern European ski centres. The night skiing, artificial snow canons, new top quality snow making machines, ski rental with 500 sets of ski equipment, a ski depot with automatic sterilizing and drying; ski lifts connected to a central control system and complete video surveillance of the ski resort guarantee superb enjoyment until late April. The working hours of the six seater are from 09.00 to 16.30, and the restaurant is open until late.

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WILDERNESS BIKING DURMITOR Featuring more than fifty peaks higher than 2,000 metres and plenty areas available for biking and hiking, the area is a dream for every nature lover. The publication Wilderness Biking will significantly facilitate the exploration of the wild beauty of Sinjajevina, Maganik, Lola, Golija, Orjen, Komovi, Hajla, Turjak, Bjelasica, and Durmitor, along 17, mostly unknown, but carefully selected panoramic tracks. The breathtaking vistas, cultural and historical monuments and acclaimed Montenegrin hospitality supplement the experience, and make your stay in Montenegro unforgettable.

One of the routes that is sure to amaze you is Žabljak – Sušićko lake – Trsa – Žabljak, with the lowest point at 1190 metres, and the highest at an altitude of 1958 metres. You can enjoy fascinating views of the Tara Canyon as well as of Durmitor, Piva, Bioč, Volujak, and Maglić,allalongthetrack.Getreadyforthechallenge and bear in mind that some portions of the route may be covered in snow even in June. www.montenegro.travel

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WHITE WATER RAFTING TA R A C A N YO N

When the sun gets too strong on the coast and even the depths of the Adriatic sea would not bring the desired cooling, and a chilly hotel room or lobby does not sound like an imaginative solution, do not despair. This is when Montenegro will show its full power and superiority. The lush nature of the crystal clear Tara river is only 2 or 3 hours drive away from the coast, 93 kilometres long, and in some spots up to 1,300 metres deep, with over 50 rapids (of a level 4 maximum difficulty), countless tributaries, brimful of vegetation, and with a series of camping sites. You can opt for eitheraonedaytripdowntheriverfromBrstanovicatoŠćepanPolje (18 kilometres), two-days, to Radovan Luka (40 kilometres) or for a three-day trip, starting from Splavište, up-stream from the famous Tara bridge (96 kilometres).

Regardless of your choice, we recommend that you stay overnight in some of the campsites in the canyon. You will be astounded – starry nights, the sound of water, the murmur of trees and absolute quiet will bring you back to a place you've never been to. It will be a break of dawn to remember for life.

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ART & CULTURE One of the greatest relics of Christianity, the Our Lady of Philerme icon, once the patron of the island of Rhodes, and protector of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, made in Jerusalem at the beginning of the 12th century, adorned with sapphires, brilliants and rubies, is exhibited in the Blue Chapel in Cetinje. A masterpiece of the Kotor medieval goldsmiths – the gilded silver altar relief screen in the St Tryphon cathedral dating back to the 12th century; the supreme achievement of Byzantine fresco painting – Raven Feeds the Prophet Elijah in the Morača Monastery, dating back to the 13th century; the jewel of the Oriental sacral architecture: Hussein Pasha's Mosque from 1594 in Pljevlja, to mention only a few of the exquisite valuables that illustrate the cultural milieu in which new generations of artists are formed, and in which the modern cultural life of Montenegro is felt. The position of a crossroads between civilizations, cultures and religions played the key role in the determination of the cultural profile of Montenegro.

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Artists / Great Painters

MEDITERRANEAN PAINTER HERCEG NOVI One of the most prominent contemporary Montenegrin painters, Vojo Stanić was born in 1924 in Podgorica. A sculptor by training, he interprets the scenes of everyday life, observing the world with the lucid eye of an individual and a narrator. Inspired by the Mediterranean, by his emotions, he explores the manifold connections between people and things, giving life to a surreal mix of everyday details. Some of the paintings, like the Mediterranean, Night, Tavern, Njake, are stories on canvas, sometimes critical, but mostly full of understanding of the weaknesses of the human soul. Among his many years of work, numerous group and independent exhibitions, the Venice Biennale exhibition in 1996 is probably the single most important.

Permanently exhibited in the Art Museum of Cetinje, the paintings

by Vojo Stanić are also available in a great many galleries in Montenegro and Europe. A member of the Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts, he lives and works in Herceg Novi.

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Great Exhibitions

ART MUSEUM OF MONTENEGRO CETINJE You can visit all the museums and galleries in Montenegro, but if you don't dedicate at least one day to the Art Museum of Montenegro, you will most likely miss the opportunity to meet the artistic spirit of Montenegro. This spirit has reached its greatest accomplishments in the art of painting.

Established in 1950, the Art Museum of Montenegro boasts approximately 3,000 pieces, some of which are the principle works of Montenegrin and Yugoslav painters from the late 19th century to the beginning of the 21st century: Anastas and Špiro Bocarić, Marko Gregović, Pero Poček, Milo Milunović, Petar Lubarda, Risto Stijović, Branko Filo Filipović, Vojo Stanić, Miodrag Djurić Dado, Vlaho Bukovac, Paja Jovanović, Celestin Medović, Uroš Predić, Rihard Jakopič, Jovan Bijelić, Petar Dobrović, Sava Šumanović, Milan Konjović, Marko Čelebonović, Pedja Milosavljević, Oton Postružnik, Stane Kregar, Krsto Hegedušić, Oton Gliha, Jože Cijuha, Gabriel Stupica...Because of the diversity and richness, the collections were divided into: the Collection of Fresco reproduction, the Collection of Icons, the Collection of Montenegrin Fine Arts, the Collection of Yugoslav Fine Arts, the Collection of Foreign Artists, and many others. A separate space hosts one of the most revered Christian relics, the icon of Our Lady of Philerme.

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www.mnmuseum.org

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Sounds of Montenegro

MONTENEGRIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

PODGORICA

All the Montenegrin Symphony Orchestra's predecessors, due to war or an unfavourable financial situation, were doomed to disappear: The First Montenegrin Military Music (the 70s of the 19th century),TheSecond MilitaryMusic,MilitaryMusic,LittleSymphony Orchestra; RTV Montenegro Symphony Orchestra – all stopped working.

What it took was for Žarko Mirković, a composer and professor, laureate of many music awards, to undertake the responsibility and, for the Government of Montenegro to establish the public institution, the Music Centre of Montenegro in 2006. This is how the symphony orchestra was founded, and when it was safe to put thenameofthecountryinfrontofitsname–TheMontenegrinSymphony Orchestra. The Orchestra's premier concert was on 14 December 2007 in Cetinje, following exhaustive rehearsals under the guidance of its conductor and artistic manager, the Russian conductor Aleksey Shatsky. Regular performances throughout Montenegro were to follow. In the past two seasons, many prominent artists have performed with the Orchestra: Goran Krivokapić, Gregory Krasko, Vladimir Ovchinnikov, Darinka Matić-Marović, Bojan Sudjić, Bostjan Lipovsek, Christopher Miroshnikov, Ingomar Rainer, Denis Matsuev...

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www.muzickicentar.co.me

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Royal Theatre

ZETSKI DOM CETINJE

Erected as a symbol of Montenegrin striving to get closer to Europe, the Royal Theatre Zetski Dom in Cetinje was opened, still unfinished, in 1888, with the play Balkan Empress, written by Prince Nikola. In the decades upon the finalization of its construction, plays by Shakespeare, Schiller, Moliere, Hugo, Gorki, and other famous playwrights were staged.

Zetski Dom embodies in its edifice all the theatrical principles of the era (the architect Dr Josip Slade was its designer, and also the designer of the Ĺ ibenik Theatre); it was furnished with shipments from Vienna, Budapest, and Trieste. It looked like other European chamber theatres and had all the features of the theatres of that age: a royal loggia box, muses painted on its ceiling, and the like. After many years of turbulent life, the edifice was renovated, the stage extended, and provided with the props for all sorts of theatrical shows, which restored its old glory.

www.zetskidom.me

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M Landmarks

MILLENNIUM BRIDGE PODGORICA

It is not possible to explain the incredible success and popularity this bridge over the Morača has achieved with the citizens of Podgorica and Montenegro either through its functional or technical features, or its contribution to the alleviation of numerous traffic bottlenecks in the capital; it must be something else – the emotional relationship that was created from the first day, the citizens of Podgorica simply fell in love with the bridge, and grew proud of it. The bridge designer, Mladen Ulićević, a professor at the Civil Engineering Faculty of Podgorica, felt that the city defined and laid out by the architecture of socialist era, missed the visual integration of the old and new city quarters, the harmonious vertical, the identity signature and focal point, and he managed to define this needforidentityinthenewmillenniumbythissuspensionbridge.

The bridge is 140 metres long, with 4 lanes and two pedestrian walkways, its pylon is 57 metres high, twelve cables support the roadway deck, while twenty four more are attached to the counterweights, and it all presents an utterly harmonious and elegant architectonic ensemble, evoking the transoceanic ship silhouette, and confirming that Podgorica is, too, a part of the Mediterranean.

The symbol of modern, post socialist Podgorica has connected Ivana Crnojevića Blvd and 13 July St since mid 2005.

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Unique Customs

FAŠINADA

PERAST

For 558 years already, on 22 July, about hundred men from Perast gather at sunset, to collect rocks and tree boughs, load their barges and row their way to the island of Gospa od Škrpjela. The parson is in the leading barge, together with prominent citizens, both Roman Catholics and Orthodox; musicians wearing the Boka national costumes are in the next one, and then follow all those who consider the Lady as their protector or simply want to take part in the preservation of the custom and of the island as well.

According to the legend, after a shipwreck in 1452, the fishermen saw the icon of Madonna with Christ on a rock above Perast, and the citizens of Perast later decided to build an island in her honour.

It took over hundred years of painstaking stone depositing on the cliff, and sinking of old sailing ships, to build the island, and in 1630, Gospa od Škrpjela church was built too. Adorned with 68 canvasses by baroque master Tripo Kokolja; 2,500 silver plates on the sidewalls, left by sailors as their pledges; there are also paintings and sculptures by the Genovese school masters, by painter Lovro Dobričević of Kotor, Venetian sculptor Francesco Gai and others; this church is a treasury of some of the greatest values of the Montenegrin coast.

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STRATEGIC PARTNERS

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IMPRESSUM

Publisher Ministry of Tourism of Montenegro Minister Predrag Nenezić National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro Director Saša Radović

Executive Publisher AMC Communications Editor in Chief Velibor Zolak Associates Aleksandra Božović Blažo Bućin Maja Cvenić Slavko Đurđić Vesna Ivanović Slađana Ivanović Nikica Janković Kaća Krsmanović Vanja Mihajlović Vinko Mihailović Jelena Pavićević dr Natalija Perović Marina Rađenović Marija Rajković Jelena Stjepović Jelena Stanković Martina Trifunović Ana Urošević Ljiljana Zeković

Photography Vjekoslav Bojat Radoje Jovanović Vesko Mijajlović Radoje Milić Duško Miljanić Lazar Pejović Nenad Petrović Isidor Stankov NTO Crne Gore AMC Communications Companies Translation Đorđe Vujnović Editing Paul Turner Concept, Design and Production AMC Communications Marketing Communications & TV Production MNE 85310 Budva amc@t-com.me Budva 2010.