Lifestyle expert, Instagram sensation, model and fashion stylist Alexa Taylor recently visited Montenegro and shares travel tips and details about how to experience this amazing country like a VIM – a Very Important Montenegrin.
The country of Montenegro nestles into the coastline of the eastern Adriatic Sea wedged between Bonia and Herzegovina to the north and Albania to the south. Although smaller than its neighbors, the borders seem to take in all the best geographic features of the area and many landmarks of historic significance.
First, head out to the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO-protected heritage site, for a walk along the fjord-like waterway and the imposing vistas provided by ancient coastal churches and the fortified towns of Kotor and Herceg Novi. Sip a kava (Montenegran coffee) in one of the cafes in Old Town of Kotor and spend the day wandering ancient streets and visiting Orthodox churches.
If a pool is more your style, head over to the Lido Pool at the Porto Montenegro Yacht Club with day beds, an infinity pool and Pranzo restaurant for Italian-inspired food and drinks. Voted “Superyacht Marina of the Year” by the Yacht Harbor Association, the Marina Village is a retail mecca with luxury boutiques including Philipp Plein, Heidi Klein, Valentino, Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent and Dolce & Gabbana.
After an afternoon of shopping, take time to check in to one of the first-class hotels in the area. The Forza Mare in Kotor is a luxury boutique hotel directly on the Bay. Stay in one of the ten suites and wake up to unobstructed views of the sea and mountains. There is also a quaint private beach for guests overlooking the beautiful Boka Bay.
Within the Old Town discerning travelers select the luxury Aman Sveti Stefan Resort, the most prestigious accommodations on the island. The property is connected to the coast by a narrow isthmus directly across from the historic Villa Milocer, formerly the Queen’s residence, which today houses the resort’s Aman Spa. Take a fitness class at the Yoga Pavilion or try a local specialty at one of the award-winning restaurants on the expansive property. Take advantage of a day bed on the Queen’s Beach outside the hotel and splash in the aqua waters of the Adriatic Sea.
In Tivat, another small town on the Bay of Kotor, stay at the Regent Porto in the heart of the municipality, the smallest by area in Montenegro. This enchanting hotel with its nautical décor gives the impression of boarding a private yacht for a luxury cruise. The private beach is accessible only by boat from the hotel. Stroll along the marina to one of the many wine bars along the harbor and watch the daily passing of small-town life.
“The highlight of any trip for me is meeting the local people,” says Taylor. “I love the people of Montenegro. They are very friendly and outgoing, maybe due to the incredible scenery, temperate environment and favorable location. There are very few things as enjoyable as sitting at a seaside restaurant with just-caught seafood dinner watching the sun set from the picturesque pebbled beaches.”
Any visit to Montenegro demands some planning. On Alexa’s list of must-haves for the journey are a Eugenia Kim hat, Karen Walker sunglasses, a Heidi Klein white bandeau swimsuit and La Roche Posay sunscreen.
To learn more about Alexa Taylor visit her @alexa__taylor.