Although civil wars tore apart the Balkan states during the 1990s, the region has since recovered enough to start welcoming travelers with open arms. Yet prices remain reasonable in the area, especially when compared with those found in nearby vacation spots such as Italy and Greece. Perhaps that is because visitors have yet to fully recognize the region’s potential. Although the Balkans contain many noteworthy countries, there are plenty of reasons that Montenegro seems to quickly gaining international interest.

Image Credit: Trish Hartmann via Flickr and CC 2.0

At the moment, the country is a great place to enjoy delicious local cuisine, sunny seaside bays, and picturesque historic monuments at affordable rates. Like most places in the Balkans, staying in Montenegro for a while shouldn’t break the bank. In fact, a few years ago, the Rough Guides reported that budget travelers could get by in the country on about $45 USD per day and things haven’t changed much since then. However, those planning a vacation may want to check out this spot before word gets out and prices start skyrocketing as has been the case in places like Dubrovnik in Croatia.

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Montenegro is known for its numerous coastal towns which are home to spectacular scenery and excellent beaches. Places like Kotor, Budva, Ulcinj, and Tivet can easily rival, if not completely surpass, beach town found in more expensive destinations. However, scenic canyons and spectacular freshwater lakes where adventure sports reign supreme await travelers who decide to venture away from the coast. The country’s national parks are also worth a visit. After all, Biogradska Gora National Park is home to one of the last remaining sections of old growth forest in Europe.

Image Credit: Raymond Zoller via Flickr and CC 2.0

Of course, getting there is a concern for travelers. But fear not! Montenegro can easily be reached by taking a flight to either the Podgorica or the Tivat airport. Travelers can also avail themselves of the regular trains that run from Belgrade in Serbia to Bar, Montenegro or the constant ferries that run from Ancona and Bari, Italy. Buses from other countries and additional ferry routes are likewise available for travelers. Individuals who are citizens of Canada or the United States do not even need a visa to visit Montenegro. So, why not go before the crowds find out about this spectacular place?

Image Credit: Alexandra Zakharova via Flickr and CC 2.0

Sources: WikiTravel; Price of Travel; The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget; Google Currency Converter; London Evening Standard