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Practical Information

Practical Information

Coastal Montenegro, Montenegro

Communication Essentials

M:tel, Telenor, and Crnogorski Telekom are the main mobile operators. Local prepaid SIM cards are easily available; a passport for registration is a requirement.

Staying Connected

  • Local ESIMs (Airalo) or physical SIM cards
  • Wi-Fi in hotels & cafes
  • Unlocked smartphone

Language & Translation

Montenegrin is the official language. English finds wide usage in tourist areas, less so in rural regions.

Translation Aids

  • Google Translate app (offline pack)
  • Voice translation features
  • Basic phrases (e.g., Hvala - Thank you)

Money & Banking

The Euro is the currency. ATMs are widely available 24/7 in and around Kotor Old Town. Banks typically operate Monday to Friday.

Financial Access

  • Currency is Euro (€)
  • ATMs are common
  • Banking hours M-F, 8 AM-4 PM

Business Hours & Holidays

Schedules vary seasonally. Check specific attraction websites for current hours. During public holidays, banks and many businesses may be closed.

Operating Times

  • Shops: 8/9 AM - 8/9 PM (Mon-Sat)
  • Restaurants: Morning - Late evening
  • Public holidays affect services

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interactions & Attire

  • Firm handshake upon meeting
  • "Dobar dan" appreciated
  • Modest dress for religious sites
  • Be polite and patient

Dining & Photography

  • 10% tip customary for good service
  • Ask permission before photographing individuals
  • Avoid politics and sensitive history
  • Society leans conservative

Airport Services

For lounge access, consider Priority Pass. For flight compensation, Compensair assists with delays or cancellations.

Accessibility Information

Kotor's ancient infrastructure presents mobility challenges.

Old Town Challenges

Narrow, uneven cobblestone streets and numerous stairs. Few ramps or modern accessible features.

Accessible Spots

Main squares within the Old Town are generally accessible. Newer hotels offer better accessibility.

Transport Considerations

Public buses may lack wheelchair access. Private transfers or specialized tour operators are often ideal.

Visual Impairment

Limited specialized services exist for visual impairments. Street signage usually appears in both Montenegrin and English.

Guidance

  • Limited specialized services
  • Signage in Montenegrin & English
  • Travel with a companion

Hearing Impairment

Limited specialized services exist for hearing impairments. Direct communication or translation apps are helpful.

Guidance

  • Limited specialized services
  • Translation apps assist
  • Consider organized tours

Planning for Accessibility

Pre-Trip Preparation

  • Contact hotels directly
  • Inquire about accessible rooms
  • Arrange specialized transport

On-Site Approach

  • Prepare personal assistive devices
  • Communicate needs in advance
  • Thorough research helps

Considerations

Information on specific accessible facilities for Montenegro is limited online. Direct communication with service providers is the best approach.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Montenegrin society generally welcomes visitors, with a few cultural norms to observe for smooth interactions.

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake finds common usage when meeting someone for the first time. Montenegrins are generally polite and welcoming people.

Practice These

  • Firm handshake (men & women)
  • Smile and be approachable
  • "Dobar dan" upon entry to shops

Appropriate Attire

Casual attire is suitable for everyday wear. Modesty is for religious sites.

Dress Code

  • Casual for daily wear
  • Shoulders and knees covered at religious sites
  • Carry a light scarf for modesty

Dining & Tipping

Montenegrins enjoy long, social meals. Expect no rushing. A simple "Račun, molim" (bill, please) for attention.

Tipping Guidelines

  • Wait to be seated
  • 10% tip customary for good service
  • Rounding up fare for taxis

Photography & Taboos

Generally, public space photos are fine. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals. Certain topics remain sensitive.

Cultural Sensitivity

  • Ask permission for people's photos
  • Be discreet at religious sites
  • Avoid politics or ethnic tensions

Gender & LGBTQ+

Social Norms

  • Generally conservative society
  • Public displays of affection (LGBTQ+) may draw attention
  • Legal protection from discrimination

Discretion

  • Exercise discretion outside liberal zones
  • Social acceptance varies
  • Remain aware of local norms

Postal Services

Sending Mail

  • Post offices (Pošta Crne Gore) available
  • Find them outside the Old Town
  • Reliable for international mail

What to Send

  • Postcards
  • Letters
  • Local stamps needed

Knowledge is

A few basic phrases in Montenegrin show respect.