Pripyat Visit Or The Soviet Union Through Our Eyes

BY  Sibashree Oct 22, 2025

“The cats protect the city from mice, and in return, the people feed them.” The local shopkeeper told me as I was walking toward a dozen cats sitting on the stone steps at a locality near the Old Town. On a backpacking trip to Kotor, Montenegro, I found cats on the ancient walls, in cafes, and everywhere! Stretching their bodies in the Sun and with their purrs, they indeed looked like the guardians of the city. And it is them who made me feel at home. However, it’s not just the cats that make Kotor in Montenegro an ideal budget travel destination for backpackers. It now features in the second spot as one of the most underrated budget backpacker destinations by Bamba Travel. Its medieval streets, historic architecture, hiking routes, and seafood offer the most affordable travel options for backpackers. Also, it is a less-crowded place than most hotspots in Western Europe. Is there more to a Kotor Montenegro budget travel experience? We will figure out the answer in this blog. We will also talk about how to reach Kotor, Montenegro, the modes of transportation for moving around and more. Let’s plan a trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Natural Beauty Of Kotor, Montenegro Speaks: Understanding Its Location  Another vivid memory I have of Kotor is how I started my hike to the Kotor Fortress before sunrise. I was halfway up, and nature was getting ready to be bathed with the first rays of the Sun. The chirpings of birds and that smell, a mix of the scent of an oven after a cake is freshly baked, and the dew-drenched leaves created an ambiance that was inexplicable. Nevertheless, a local shepherd offered some cheese and rakija (homemade brandy), and we talked about life. Then, the Sun illuminated the entire Kotor Bay. Now, if not this, what is magic for a backpacker or traveler? Now, thanks to the unique natural location of Kotor, Montenegro, you can encounter many such magical experiences. Located in the Bay of Kotor, Kotor is a coastal town of Montenegro, and it is a part of the Kotor Municipality. It sits between the Adriatic Sea and the Dinaric Alps and has a mountainous terrain. How To Reach Kotor, Montenegro? How Tourists From Different Parts Of the World Can Visit Kotor?  The easiest way to reach Kotor is to travel to the Tivat Airport. Located at a distance of around 7 km, it is the closest to Kotor. You have to travel the remaining route by local transport. Podgorica Airport (40 km) and Dubrovnik Airport (44km, Croatia) are the two other airports near Montenegro. You will get flights from major European cities to these airports, and buses also run from neighboring countries such as Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Podgorica and Kotor. Furthermore, you can travel from Belgrade in Serbia to Podgorica in Montenegro and from Belgrade in Serbia to Bar in Montenegro. In addition, if you are traveling from Italy, you can take a ferry from Ancona on Italy’s eastern coast and take a ferry to Bar in Montenegro. You will have to make a journey of around 13 hours to reach your destination. Flights, Trains, Buses, And Other Modes of Transportation  For a backpacker, it’s a must to explore the Bay of Kotor in a boat. This boat takes you to many nearby towns and villages. However, for me, the trip to Perast was the highlight of these boat trips. The village has fewer than 300 people, and the quaint village offers some of the grandest views. Furthermore, if you want to move around and explore Kotor and its nearby localities by road, you will get car rentals, taxis, and shuttles. Why Is Kotor Montenegro, Budget Travel So Popular Among Backpackers?  While Greece and Croatia get all the attention on big tourism platforms, Montenegro in the Balkans is emerging as a favorite of the budget backpack travelers, thanks to the steady numbers. According to a report published by the International Trade Administration on 20th May 2024, tourism contributes 30% to Montenegro's GDP. Furthermore, the country is planning to boost its tourism prospects with a great focus on the following areas. Ecotourism  Cultural Tourism  Rural Tourism  Furthermore, another report published in ReportLinger suggests that the number of tourists to Montenegro is likely to reach 3.4 million by 2028. This is again a 2.8% rise from the number of 2.9 million tourists in 2023. Also, the tourism revenue is expected to reach $95 million by 2028. Now, in this scenario, Kotor is emerging as a sustainable tourism gem after a successful sustainability assessment by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). The Port of Kotor in Montenegro, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and the Municipality of Kotor have done a successful assessment of the city. Vladimir Jokić, Mayor of Kotor, has commented, “As the Mayor of Kotor, I am pleased to say that Kotor is one of the few cities in the region that has undergone an important sustainability assessment process as a tourist destination. Together with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and CLIA, we brought together various stakeholders from public life to gather their input. All participants from public life, city government bodies, state authorities, universities, the civil sector, the economy, and entrepreneurs took part in this process. The assessment results provided us with a clear insight into the impact of tourism on our city, which will help us develop effective strategies for sustainable tourism – that is, how we should move forward regarding tourism.”  So, Kotor today is a benchmark in sustainable tourism in the European region, and it is a budget-friendly travel destination among tourists for the following reasons. 1. Affordable Accommodation Options, Including Hostels And Guesthouses  Kotor has plenty of budget stays, from cozy guesthouses run by local families to hostels right inside the Old Town. Many include free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and kitchen access. Prices start at around €10–€15 per night during the off-season, and you’ll often meet other travelers sharing tips over morning coffee.  2. Stunning Natural Beauty With Mountains And The Adriatic Sea  Kotor sits where the rugged Dinaric Alps meet the calm Adriatic Sea. Whether you’re hiking up to the fortress or just wandering the waterfront, every corner feels like a postcard. The Bay of Kotor, often called Europe’s southernmost fjord, is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just soaking in the sunset.  3. Rich Cultural And Historical Heritage In The Old Town  The Old Town is a maze of medieval lanes, Venetian palaces, and stone churches dating back to the 12th century. Walking here feels like stepping back in time and the best part is that exploring them is absolutely free! You can easily spend hours admiring its architecture and lively squares without spending a cent.  4. Numerous Free And Low-Cost Attractions  Many Kotor Montenegro activities are budget-friendly and free. Strolling along the Marina is the most relaxing experience I had at Kotor, Montenegro. Furthermore, the entrance fees to the museums and cathedrals here are very few. You need to just pay a few dollars. Overall, the magic of Kotor lies in exploring the city on foot or by boat the Kotor Bay. 5. Easy Access To Hiking Trails Like The Ladder Of Kotor  1350 Steps! Yes, you have to climb 1350 steps to complete the Ladder of Kotor hike. However, climbing up so many steps is a rewarding experience as the panoramic views of the city and the surroundings are breathtaking. 6. Budget-friendly Local Cuisine And Street Food  Kotor Montenegro food is comforting and simple, an extension of the simplicity of the city. I fell in love with sell burek or the savory pastries here. The filling in these pastries will remind you of your mother or grandmother who can create the biggest magic on the plate with the simplest ingredients. Furthermore, the family-run taverns or konobas here served the best grilled meat and seafood at the most affordable price.  7. Proximity To Other Balkan Destinations  You can easily include visiting places such as gems like Budva, Podgorica, or Dubrovnik in your Kotor Montenegro itinerary. Regional and international buses are available during the daytime and nighttime to explore these places on a budget. 8. Friendly Locals And A Welcoming Atmosphere  Montenegrins are hospitable, and language is never a barrier here. Many people here speak English. Especially the younger ones are well-versed in the language. So, it does not matter whether you are visiting Kotor for the first time or the last time. You will connect easily. 9. Vibrant Backpacker Community And Social Hostels  Kotor Montenegro hostels are beyond budget-friendly accommodations. These turn out to be the local social hub for solo travelers. Many of these hostels focus on activities such as:  Hiking Trips  Group Dinners  Local Events  Pub Crawling  So, you make new friends and earn new experiences with the locals guiding you. 10. Opportunities For Volunteering And Work Exchanges  Are you a digital nomad? Or, are you staying longer in Kotor? Many cafes, hostels and eco-projects in the city offer work-exchange programs or volunteer services. Explore platforms such as Worldpackers and Workaway to explore the listed job opportunities. Furthermore, there are many hostels and cafes where you can work for a few hours and get free accommodation and food in return. I have found several such listings on Worldpackers. You will have to work for 20 to 24 hours a week and have to shoulder working at receptions, administration, cleaning and housekeeping. You will get a shared dormitory and one meal in exchange for these services.  How To Plan The Kotor Montenegro Budget Travel For A Week? A week in Kotor can cost as little as $300–€400. Here is a quick breakdown. Montenegro Budget Travel Expenses Cost Breakdown Accommodation in Hostels $15–$25 per night Meals $5–$10 per meal at local eateries Kotor Montenegro Transport $10–$20 for buses and local travel Tours and Entrance Fees $5–$15 Total Average Daily Cost $35-60  Top Budget-Friendly Hostels In Kotor, Montenegro  Have a look at the table below for the list of budget-friendly hostels in Kotor, Montenegro. Staying in a hostel is one of the cheap ways to travel to Kotor Montenegro for backpackers.  Hostel Name Address Highlights Google Maps Montenegro Hostel 4U Bokeljskih brigada bb, Kotor • 30 Seconds from the beach• Great social vibe• Rooftop terraceClick HereHostel Pupa Njegoseva 254, Suranj, Kotor • Near the bus terminal and Old Town• Cozy common area Click HereOld Town Youth Hostel Stari Grad 284, Kotor • Inside Old Town• Party-friendly• Great for solo travelersClick HereHostel Centrum Stari Grad, Kotor • 2-minute walk from Old Town gate• Communal kitchenClick HereMontenegro Backpackers Home Old Town, Kotor • Great location• Excursions available• Well-equipped kitchenClick HereGuesthouse STEP Near Old Town, Kotor • Terrace Hiking • Access Budget-Friendly Click HereKotor Nest Coliving Kotor, Old Town • Ideal for digital nomads• Modern amenitiesClick Here Is Visiting Kotor Montenegro, Worth It?  I was walking through Old Town and stumbled upon a group of elderly men playing traditional Montenegrin music on guitars and accordions. Locals stopped, clapped, and danced spontaneously. They even invited me to join in. I learnt the local dances right there on the cobblestones. Now, this is the spirit of Montenegro, it’s about living life to the fullest and understanding the magic of minimalism. Furthermore, the main attractions such as the St. Tryphon Cathedral, the town of Perast, the Blue Cave, the Bay of Kotor, and the City Walls allow you to soak in its cultural heritage, history, and scenic beauty on a budget. Is Kotor, Montenegro, Struggling With Overtourism? Yes, like Venice, Barcelona, and many other major European cities, Kotor, the “Unsung” coastal beauty, is also struggling with the perils of overtourism. The rising number of cruises to the city is leading to this problem. As a result, the locals are now advocating for higher entrance fees. So, discussions are going on about raising the entrance fee, which is 1 Euro. This is justified because housing costs are rising due to the increase in tourism, and there are also environmental concerns. And it is not just homeowners who are worried about these growing numbers. The local shopkeepers and NGOs who work for community development and environmental issues are also concerned by the sudden boost in tourism. During my trip, I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Mandic, an environmental activist in the city. She said, “Hundreds of tourists are visiting the city every day. They are writing the city’s future, which will be irreversible.”  The Municipality of Kotor and the local tourism authorities will monitor the numbers to maintain the pristine charm of the coastal town. Montenegro Budget Travel: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Montenegro budget travel. 1. Are 4 Days Enough For Kotor, Montenegro?  Yes, 4 to 5 days are enough to explore the city of Kotor in Montenegro. You can walk through the Old Town, enjoy a boating tour in the Bay of Kotor, visit the nearby towns, and explore local life by having food at the family-run taverns in Kotor. 2. Is Kotor Or Budva Better?  Kotor and Budva both places are beautiful. However, Kotor is less touristy with its quaint cafes and the medieval Old Town, which stands as the eternal witness. Furthermore, Kotor is more suitable for budget-travelers as walking, hiking, cycling and biking are the best modes of knowing this city of Montenegro.  3. Which Language Is Spoken In Montenegro?  Montenegrin is the language of the people of Montenegro. However, Montenegrin is a part of the Serbo-Croatian language variety. So, it is similar to other languages such as Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian.Furthermore, many people here, especially the younger ones speak in English.  4. Can You Drink Tap Water In Montenegro?  Yes, you can drink tap water in Montenegro. Furthermore, you will find fresh water springs around Lake Skadar and in the mountains. Furthermore, food in Montenegro is also checked in labs to ensure complete safety. 5. What Are The Common Crimes In Kotor? Burglary and theft are the most common crimes in Kotor, Montenegro. Along with pickpocketing and snatching of purses, these crimes also include theft at ATMs. Furthermore, these crimes increase in number during the peak tourist season or the summer months.Also, organized crimes, especially the ones related to drug smuggling, are quite common in Kotor. In fact, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime report “Montenegro-UNODC Strategic Partnership Framework (2024-2029),” “..., organized crime in Montenegro is mostly related to drugs smuggling. Montenegro is part of the ‘traditional’ opiate route from Afghanistan to Europe, or so called ‘Balkan Route’. In terms of trafficking routes, heroin is thought to come via road to Montenegro from Albania, Kosovo or Serbia and travel further towards Croatia and other European countries. 6. What Is The Best Time To Visit Kotor, Montenegro?  The summer months of July and August are the peak months for visiting Kotor in Montenegro. However, for budget friendly travelers, November to February is the ideal time for a visit to Kotor. Despite rainfall being a factor, these are the months for skiing and watersports in nearby mountains. Also, with the number of tourists being fewer in these months, the accommodation charges are lower than in the peak season.On average, your daily expenses in these months will be around $5 less than the peak summer months.

BY  Abdul Aziz Jul 12, 2023

Welcome to Marseille, the enchanting gateway to the South of France! Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean Sea, this captivating city is a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As you step into Marseille, prepare to be swept away by its irresistible charms and the myriad of experiences that await. Marseille boasts a fascinating past that dates back over 2,600 years, making it one of the oldest cities in France. Explore the Vieux Port, the iconic heart of the city, and witness a tapestry of colorful fishing boats bobbing in the sparkling azure waters. For history enthusiasts, visiting the historic neighborhood of Le Panier is an absolute must. Hidden gems await around every corner, from ancient churches like the Cathédrale de la Major to the intriguing MuCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations. Whether you're captivated by its ancient history, tantalized by its culinary delights, or mesmerized by its natural beauty, Marseille has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be embraced by the joie de vivre that permeates every corner of this remarkable city. Marseille invites you to create unforgettable memories. Embrace the Mediterranean spirit and embark on a journey of discovery unlike any other. The enchanting city of Marseille awaits—let the adventure begin! Unveiling The Magic Of Marseille: A Must-Do Guide Marseille offers an array of attractions that will captivate every traveler.  It has a rich historical heritage and diverse cultural scene, its breathtaking natural beauty and culinary delights, Join us as we embark on a journey through the enchanting streets of Marseille. In this article, we are going to uncover the top things to do and see in this Mediterranean gem. Explore The Vieux Port Begin your Marseille adventure at the iconic Vieux Port, the city's beating heart. Marvel at the picturesque view of fishing boats and luxury yachts, and take a leisurely stroll along the walk. Indulge in some people-watching while sipping a café au lait at one of the charming cafés or sample fresh seafood at the lively fish market. Discover Le Panier Step back in time as you wander through the historic neighborhood of Le Panier. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with vibrant street art. Explore hidden squares, visit charming boutiques and galleries, and don't miss the opportunity to admire the stunning Cathédrale de la Major. It is one of the modern architecture of the MuCEM. Ascend To Basilique Notre-Dame De La Garde Make your way up the hill to the majestic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, an iconic symbol of Marseille. Take in the panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from the basilica's terrace. Admire the interior adorned with intricate mosaics and religious artifacts, and soak in the serene ambiance of this spiritual sanctuary. Delight In The Culinary Delights Marseille's gastronomy is a feast for the senses. Indulge in the world-renowned bouillabaisse, a flavorful seafood stew, and savor the delicate flavors of local dishes such as aioli, panisse, and pieds paquets. Visit the lively Marché du Vieux Port to explore the vibrant food stalls. Grab some Provençal specialties from the seafood restaurant in Marseille. Discover The Calanques The Calanques, a series of stunning limestone cliffs and hidden coves along the coastline, will enthrall nature enthusiasts. Embark on a boat tour or hike through the rugged trails to witness the pristine beauty of these natural wonders. Remember your swimsuit, as you'll have the opportunity to take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Immerse Yourself In Culture Marseille boasts a thriving cultural scene that caters to all tastes. Visit the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille to delve into the city's fascinating past or explore contemporary art at the MAC. You could try catching a performance at the world-renowned Opéra de Marseille. The neighborhood of La Plaine comes alive with street performers, artists, and musicians who offer a vibrance. Soak Up The Sun At The Beaches With its Mediterranean climate, Marseille is blessed with many beautiful beaches. Relax on the sandy shores of Prado Beach and indulge in water sports at Plage des Catalans. Escape to the beautiful beaches of Calanque de Sormiou and Calanque de Morgiou. Unwind, soak up the sun, and take a dip in the refreshing Mediterranean waters. Conclusion With its captivating blend of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, Marseille promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. From exploring its ancient streets and absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of its markets to savoring delicious cuisine and immersing yourself in its natural wonders, Marseille offers a wealth of activities and attractions that will leave you enchanted. So, pack your bags, embrace the Mediterranean spirit, and get ready to embark on a journey through the magic of Marseille. Read also: 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India Looking For Your Next Fun-Filled Family Vacation: Head To Aquaventuras Park 15 Best Places For Adventure Dates With Your Loved One

BY  Sibashree Feb 2, 2026

The Iberian Peninsula epitomizes the ultimate European trip for many explorers.   The allure of a history etched into cobblestones, wine-soaked lunches, and sun-kissed coastlines promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.   Still, when booking the flight ticket, one difficult question may catch you off guard. Spain vs Portugal? Which one will be the best bet for your next trip?   Despite having the same Mediterranean climate and sharing a peninsula as neighbors, each of these countries has its distinct soul.   Spain is like a tapestry of autonomous regions, and each region nurtures its own culture, identity, and personality. On the other hand, Portugal indulges in melancholy, and the experience here is more cohesive and intimate.   Moreover, the “fado” spirit and the maritime legacy set Portugal apart.   Hi, in today’s blog, I will do a Spain vs Portugal comparison, and the areas will be the similarities/differences in culture, safety, nature, and cost.   Spain Vs Portugal: Culture And Heritage  If grandeur is the main vibe of Spain, Portugal offers that intimacy to travelers who want to feel the connection in a new country.   The tempo of daily life is different in these countries, and that sets the foundation for a cultural divide.   The Intimacy Of Portugal   Have you ever been to Lisbon or Porto? You will notice how the heritage is linked to the sea. The Manueline architecture, with a decorative style featuring ropes, coral, and nautical symbols, further bears testament to its past.   Also, you will often notice calçada Portuguesa or calçada Portuguesa in the streets of Portugal. Moreover, with the azulejos or blue and white ceramic tiles, the buildings here exude an old-world charm.   The overall atmosphere can be described as saudade, meaning something deep and nostalgic. Also, the sunsets over the Tagus River are poetic and stir emotions.   Spain: A Kaleidoscope  In Spain, it’s like many countries in one nation. Andalusia, in the south, has the Moorish splendor of the Alhambra and the fiery passion of Flamenco.   On the other hand, Barcelona or Catalonia nurtures the surrealist modernism of Antoni Gaudí.   Furthermore, the Basque Country exudes a rugged, industrial-chic vibe and has a distinct language.   Spain Vs Portugal: Which One Is Safer?   Spain and Portugal are safe for travelers. However, the different vibes across the country create significant differences in how safe a traveler feels.   Safety In Portugal   Portugal is the 7th most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index 2025. Furthermore, in 2025, it became one of the best countries for expats due to its quality of living.   Nevertheless, the country is smaller, and its lower population density does not overwhelm you. You will feel safe and at ease even when you are in the heart of Lisbon.   So, even if you are a solo traveler or you are traveling with your family, you will enjoy a low-stress environment and warm hospitality.   Safety In Spain   Spain holds the 25th position in the Global Peace Index 2025. So, the country is safe. However, Madrid and Barcelona are global hubs. So, the usual perils of big cities will be there.   For example, though the violent crimes are rare, areas such as Barcelona’s Las Ramblas are infamous for pickpocketing incidents.   Also, with the recent struggle of overtourism, the attitude of the locals has changed a lot toward the tourists.   However, Spain has a world-class infrastructure. Also, thanks to its high-speed rail system (the AVE), you can easily navigate between cities.   Landscapes Of Portugal And Spain: The Atlantic Edge Vs. Mediterranean Bliss  The landscapes of both countries are unique and beautiful. However, the geography of Spain is more varied.   Here are more details.  The Rugged Coastline Of Portugal   If you love the drama of the Atlantic, the rugged coastline of Portugal will win you over. You will find golden limestone cliffs and hidden sea caves, such as Benagil in the Algarve region in the south.   Also, if you are looking for volcanic landscapes, the Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores offer world-class hiking, whale watching, and a lushness that earned them the nickname "the Hawaii of Europe."  The Diverse Terrains Of Spain   The beaches of Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands (Mallorca and Ibiza) coexist in Spain. In these places, you will find turquoise waters and a vibrant social scene.   Furthermore, the snow-capped Pyrenees mountains and the rugged, rainy green hills of Galicia are natural wonders of Spain.   Moreover, a historic pilgrimage route through northern Spain remains one of the world’s most iconic trekking experiences.  Portugal Vs Spain Food: Tapas Or Tascas?  Now, it’s difficult to choose a favorite between Portuguese and Spanish food. However, I find the food in Portugal to be more comforting.   Food In Portugal   The food culture of Portugal depends on the sea. You have to try salted cod or bacalhau here. The fun part is that every place you visit will serve you a different version of the same dish.   It’s like a family secret passed down across generations.   However, for me, the pastéis de nata, the blistered, creamy custard tarts, were the winner. The hint of cinnamon when it's warm! Heavenly!   Also, the Port wine from the Douro Valley or the light, effervescent Vinho Verde proudly hold the flag of Portugal high in the global gastronomic map.   Food In Spain   The land of tapas crawl, Spain, is all about sharing small plates of jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, and fresh seafood.   Furthermore, from the giant pans of saffron-scented paella in Valencia to the sophisticated "pintxos" in San Sebastián, the food scene here will offer you a varied experience.   Also, with the bold reds of the Rioja region being the crown jewels, Spanish wine is a connoisseur’s delight.   Cost And Accessibility: Which One Is More Budget-Friendly?  Despite consistent price increases in Lisbon, Portugal remains a favorite among budget-conscious travelers in Europe. The price for the high-end dining and boutique accommodations is way less than in London, Paris, or even Madrid.   Spain is expensive. However, its southern regions, like Andalusia, are quite budget-friendly.   Having said that, with a massive train network and many international airports, Spain is more accessible and ideal for planning multi-city itineraries.   And The Winner Is…  Your favorite between Portugal and Spain will depend on your personality.   For example, if you want a relaxed, romantic, and affordable getaway, Portugal is the best for you. It also allows you to do coastal hikes and enjoy the Atlantic breezes.   Overall, the experience here is something very nostalgic and intimate.   On the other hand, Spain is the place to explore iconic architectural landmarks and experience diverse regional cultures. Also, the nightlife here is iconic.   So, make your choice!