We got to our hostel in Montenegro very late, but Mile, a hostel employee was waiting for us. We walk in and he immediately pours welcome shots of rakija, the National drink of Montenegro and a very popular way to welcome someone into your home. We had to take the shot with a straight face. I think Nicole and Dan were a bit in shock with this type of welcome into a hostel, as they don't as often choose the hostels with a bit more of a party vibe. I, of course, found it quite welcoming and great. After our warm welcome, we went to bed for a great nights rest.
The next morning we headed to the old town Kotor, which is a walled city on the bay. We started the day by climbing up the walls that surround the old city on a large hill (see picture!). I must say, there were a lot of stairs, but I have to get my exercise somehow while traveling! Three quarters up the hill, we broke off of the normal path and walked towards ruins of an abandoned church. From there we took a path up the hill to a small cafe that overlooks the entire city. There, we enjoyed fresh goat cheese and honey all made locally for breakfast. And not too mention the beautiful view of the city and the bay. It was a wonderful way to spend the morning.
We finished the climb and explored the fortress ruins. On the way down we took a bit of an adventurous route. I felt a little like a soldier climbing down from the fortress in medieval times as I go down uneven paths and push through thorn bushes. We took some time to wander around the city. I, of course, enjoyed the earrings and found a pair of porcelain earrings to represent Montenegro. For lunch, we went to a restaurant on the bay. We were welcomed with Sljiva, or plum brandy. Dad has been talking about this drink a lot as he drank a lot of it when he visited Yugoslavia in the 80s (every place he went welcomed him with Sljiva, but he knows it as Slivowitz, because they were showing a different language then). |
We ordered a mix grill for lunch, which seems to be the usual meal in Montenegro. It was a plate of many different types of meat grilled served on fries. I must say, it was very tasty. I really liked the cheese and pepper breaded thing we got, as well as the kebab and chicken. We also ordered breaded pancakes, which is like crepes that have cheese and meat in them, rolled up, breaded and fried. It was actually very tasty. It was a delicious meal.
Since we were on the bay, we tried to kayak on it. We piled three of us into a double kayak and went out on an adventure. It was good exercise and a good time, but wow the wind was strong! We would be paddling as hard as we could and were barely moving forward. I must say, a bit frustrating. But, it was nice to see some of the views from the water, which for the record were incredible. The bay is surrounded by mountains and small pockets of towns.
For an evening stroll, we went to the town Perast and walked around the water. Off of Perast, there are two islands with monasteries on them, which was nice to look at in the setting sun.
Back at the hostel, I spent the night meeting people and enjoying the hostel atmosphere. I love meeting new people while traveling hostels. People come from many different places that it's so interesting to meet them. I ate a traditional cake that has a vanilla cream filling. I loved it! Nicole and I did a small brandy tasting before the night ended, since as you know, Montenegro is known for their brandy. We tried quince, pear and apricot. They were very strong! However, apricot was by far our favorite. It was fruity and delicious! |
Because we liked the hostel so much, we decided to stay an extra night. We were very glad we made the choice to come to Montenegro, it was certainly different from Croatia!