Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hostels
Hostels have made a relatively recent appearance on the scene, as they previously never fitted into tidy bureaucratic pi-
geonholes, not being either private accommodation or a traditional hotel. Thankfully, that battle has been fought and
won, and some great places have sprung up - particularly in Kotor and Budva. Some are little different from private
rentals split into dorms. The better custom-built places have well thought out communal spaces and offer a roster of
activities. Most have some sort of kitchen facilities; shared bathrooms are the norm.
Hotels
A tidal wave of development has seen hotels large and small spring up in the popular destinations. They usually have
some form of restaurant attached and offer the option of half- or full-board (breakfast plus one or two meals). In
Montenegro, a hotel spa centre is called a 'wellness centre' and a double bed is referred to as a 'French bed'
(francuski
ležaj)
.
Podgorica hotels are consistently pricey (they're targeted at business people and government officials) but you'll
find more of a range of establishments on the coast. Generally, the further you travel from Budva, the cheaper the aver-
age price. Tourist-focused Žabljak and Kolašin are the most expensive of the northern centres, but you'll find good
deals in the other towns.
Private Accommodation
The cheapest options in any town are almost always private rooms and apartment rentals. These can be arranged
through travel agencies or, in season, you may be approached at the bus stop or see signs hanging outside the houses
(they often read '
Sobe
/
Zimmer
/Rooms'). Some tourist offices publish guides to private accommodation. Rooms in
local homes shouldn't be difficult to find but some places will require minimum stays in high season (often a three-day
minimum). Don't expect en suites.
Apartments will always have their own bathroom and at least a kitchenette. Generally speaking, you'll get what you
pay for. Cheaper options are a bit rougher and further from the attractions, but there shouldn't be a problem with clean-
liness. For luxurious apartments, some of which have swimming pools and cliff-top locations, try
If you're armed with a bit of charm, an adventurous spirit, an unfussy attitude and a few words in the local lingo, it
should be possible to turn up in remote villages and ask if anyone has any rooms to rent for the night.
