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Situated on the southern coast of the Adriatic Sea, the small country of Montenegro is a haven of natural wealth with mountains, clear lakes and fast rivers, lovely beaches and vibrant cities. As small as it is, this unique pearl of the Mediterranean is one of the most interesting places in the world with an impressive contribution to world cultural heritage. Many fabulous Montenegro hotels, both on the coast and in the cities, cater for the increasing demand in holiday and tourist accommodation.
The country lies on the Balkan peninsular and shares borders with Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo and Albania with the Adriatic Sea to the west. The capital and largest city located in the center is Podgorica while Cetinje is the royal capital boasting many museums and monasteries. Popular coastal cities include Bečići and Budva with their long sandy beaches, numerous resorts and Montenegro hotels, while UNESCO World Heritage villages of Kotor and Perast and the stunning mountain tourism enter town of Zabljak are tourist magnets.
Founded under its present name (meaning "Black Mountain") in the 15th century and maintaining its independence for many centuries, Montenegro was absorbed into the Kingdom of Yugoslavia after World War I. It was only in 2006 that Montenegro finally regained full-independence after separating from the Serbia-Montenegro federation. Well known as a tourist spot in the 1980's, Montenegro's reputation as a tourist destination was tarnished due to the Yugoslav Wars. However, during the last decade, the tourism industry has recovered to such a point that it is once again a major contributor to the country's economy.
The influence of many civilizations including Christian, Muslim, Byzantine, Turkish and Slav that settled here over the centuries has turned the country into a mosaic of cultural heritage. Lovely historical sites from pre-Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque periods have survived as well as many religious monuments such as Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in Kotor, Our Lady of the Rocks and the Savina Monastery. Today the major ethnic groups are Montegrins, Serbs, Bosniaks, Muslims, Albanians and Croats with the Montenigrin language, the official one. Most inhabitants are Orthodox Christians with Muslims and Roman Catholics making up the rest.
The climate in the lower coastal regions is typically Mediterranean with long hot dry summer days and mild, rainy winters. Higher up the weather cools a lot with the mountains very wet and covered in snow all winter. Guests to any Montenegro hotel usually arrive through the main International Airport in Podgorica or by train, bus or car. Ferries too are a popular choice with lines operating daily throughout the year to Italy. Once in the country, buses are a good way to travel around though trains are cheaper but not of a very high standard.
Lovely modern spa and conference Montenegro hotels are located on the edge of the pristine waters of the Adriatic Sea and successful blend the natural beauty of the surrounds and modern amenities into an exciting whole. With balconies and beautiful sea views, guest rooms and suites are well equipped and spacious. Large gardens and shady oak trees separate some beach hotels from the sea shore. Hotels in the capital city are located close to the business center and not far from the airport and here, as in other cities around the country, visitors will find a range of hotels from budget and mid-range to a few luxury hotels.
In-room amenities and facilities include high-speed internet access, a flat screen TV with satellite channels and pay-TV, mini-bar, air-conditioning and safe. Colorfully decorated to be restful yet gracious, rooms include two twin beds or one queen-size bed and a full bathroom with a separate shower and bath.
Fabulous spas are a feature of the more luxurious Montenegro hotels and include many private rooms and suites where guests can enjoy relaxing treatments and massages. Indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools provide plenty of time in the sun while other spa facilities include a hamman, Jacuzzi, various types of sauna and a solarium. Some hotels also boast their own private beach while others include a snooker table, bicycle hire, billiards, bowling and karaoke evenings.
Montenegro hotels also provide efficient and well-equipped rooms which are perfect to host both business and private functions. From special anniversaries to a romantic wedding of a lifetime or small meetings to large conferences, the professional hotel staff will assist with all aspects of preparation from food and flowers, table decorations and music and ensure that all events run smoothly and effectively.
Many of the Montenegro hotels offer half-board or full-board. Here guests can enjoy a variety of European and Mediterranean cuisines as well as plenty of traditional Montenegrin delicacies. Smoked ham, cheeses and mushrooms are typical starters while boiled lamb, dried mutton, fresh Adriatic seafood and fish from the Skadar Lake are tempting main dishes. And there is no better way to end a meal than with a donut with honey and figs, a traditional Montenegro desert. High-quality local wines and brandies enhance any meal while the local beer served in hotel bars is well worth trying.
Montenegro hotels provide an excellent choice for a stunning holiday where history, culture and tradition and climate and natural beauty join forces to ensure a remarkable experience. Providing plenty of opportunity from lazy beach holidays to energetic mountain experiences, Montenegro hotels have something to suit everyone and the many amenities and facilities ensure that guests have a memorable vacation.
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