Montenegro sits in southern Europe on the Adriatic sea, surrounded by its neighbours from the former Yugoslavia. Given its vulnerable central position, its history is chequered and violent, but it finally returned to the status of an independent state in 2006, gaining independence first from Yogoslavia and then from Serbia. The currency of Montenegro is the euro, although it is not yet part of the European Union. The official language is Montenegrin, very similar to Serbian and Croatian.

Montenegro is a relatively small country in terms of population (well under 1 million) - even the capital Podgorica has a population of only around 140,000. This means that it is easy to take in much of what the country has to offer.

Most of Montenegro's landscape is mountainous and rugged. Even the flat lands of the coast extend only 5-6km inland before meeting sizable mountains. Skiing is popular in winter and Montenegro offers a good value alternative to other European destinations. As well as the spectacular scenery, there are many religious and historical monuments and buildings to see. Must see places include Budva with its historic centre and fine beaches, Kotor with its protected medieval centre, Perast with its beautiful baroque buildings. Kotor and Perast are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Tourism in Montenegro suffered greatly during the wars of the 1990s, but it is now growing steadily again and now is the time to see Montenegro before everyone else gets there!

Getting around in Montenegro is not as straightforward as in other European countries. There are no actual motorways and the rail network is limited. Buses are a good option. Reaching Montenegro from the rest of the world is possible by air into Montenegro itself or into Croatia or Serbia. Flights into Montenegro are operated either by Montenegro Airlines or by a few charter and low cost airlines, but this is not yet a particularly well served destination. It is also possible to reach Montenegro by rail, bus, or ferry from Italy.

Apartments, villas and bungalows are available to rent in Montenegro, particularly apartments. Accommodation can be purpose-built or converted out of beautiful historic buildings. Most accommodation ranges along the coast and it is possible to find good quality places to stay. There are also a few bed and breakfasts and guesthouses. There are also hotels of all sizes and ratings.