| | Useful Info |
Montenegro has been an independent state since 3 June 2006. As it already had institutions, laws and regulations, currency and specific customs services, the country's new statute does not bring any changes to entry and residence conditions for foreigners.
Security
Montenegro is a safe country in terms of petty crime. This does not in any way mean that travelers should not take standard precautions. Montenegro has many religions. The majority of its population is Orthodox (other are Muslims and Roman Catholics), noted for their religious tolerance.
Other than respecting places of worship (churches and mosques), and religious beliefs and practices, no particular conduct is necessary.
Road network
The road network is of average quality but major roads are usually very acceptable. Due to the country's geography the roads are often winding.
On main roads signs are always in the Latin alphabet and are usually clear but this is not always the case on secondary roads. In winter secondary roads are often blocked by snow and high passes are closed.
There are no highways. A toll is applied to both the 4 km tunnel linking Podgorica to the Adriatic coast, and the ferry which crosses the mouth of Kotor.
Rail network
There is a line from Bar (on the coast) to Belgrade via Podgorica and Bijelo Polje, not recommended.
Maritime network
Regular and seasonal services to the port of Bar from Bari and Ancona (Italy) in particular.
Air transport
There are two international airports, Podgorica and Tivat. Montenegro Airlines provides two direct flights a week by to the latter, on the coast. From Podgorica there are regular services to the rest of Europe via Belgrade, Zagreb (Croatia), Ljubljana (Slovenia) or Vienna.
Health
Montenegro was not directly affected by the avian 'flu epidemic. There is no particular endemic disease. Tap water is usually drinkable (check locally). Hospitals and emergency services are of average quality.
Time
Montenegro has the same standard time as France, both winter and summer.
Climate
Montenegro has a mild Mediterranean climate on the coast, around Skadar Lake and in the central valley; a continental climate in the high mountains in the north. Summers are hot and dry and winters rainy. Temperature variations are frequent in summer. Thus the capital Podgorica, close to sea level, has the reputation for the hottest July months with an average of 27°. At Cetinje, on the other hand, 50 km from the capital but at an altitude of 650 meters, the temperature is 10 degrees lower in the same season. In January, temperatures can drop below zero in the mountains but there is seldom snow on the coast. The coastal mountains have the highest rainfall in Europe.
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