It is a small country with a famed coastline but, as a self confessed travel addict, what intrigued me were the attractions of a country of which so little is known. The Bay of Kotor, Skadar Lake and the mountains are just three areas of stunning natural beauty which are accurately reflected in the phrase "Wild Beauty".
Walking around the towns and villages of Montenegro one experiences the ambience of a bygone age one which has not had the impact of mass tourism!
The warmth and friendliness of the local population makes the visitor genuinely welcome.
Let me give you an example to illustrate this point. At the end of 2006 I was walking in Kotor when I met a man called Cedo Mandic who is a well known local personality. We conversed in English and he then invited me into his home which was a veritable Aladdin's Cave.
It was stuffed with art and artifacts from many different parts of the world. When I expressed an interest in a couple of items, a Maria Callas record and a silver pocket watch he immediately offered them to me as presents and would not take any money. This was somewhat embarrassing. I hope that I can meet him the next time I visit Montenegro so I can reciprocate his generosity.
Montenegro reminds me of an attractive and beguiling lady who will not reveal her secrets with just one visit ! One needs several visits but the rewards will make the effort extremely worthwhile.
Harry Fine, England
