5 Things I've Learned Since Moving to Montenegro

I was recently asked by the CLO (Community Liaison Officer) to write an article in the upcoming October Embassy Newsletter. Here's a sneak peek!

5 Things I've Learned Since Moving to Montenegro

By: Katie Armstrong

It is hard to believe that we have lived in this lovely country for three months already. Our short time here has proven that my husband and I are far from experts on this whole living overseas lifestyle. But in the course of our adventures we’ve learned a thing or two and I thought I’d share a few those.

1. Montenegro is the perfect combination of everything beautiful. Podgorica is wonderfully located within a short drive from the Adriatic and the mountains. It is a country that appeals to the beach bum like myself and the adventure seeker like my husband. There is everything from hiking and rafting to sailing and sunning. Every night we enjoy a sunset that’s more beautiful than the previous night’s. I’ve felt compelled to photograph every sunset because they’re the most beautiful I’ve ever seen! We also very much appreciate the abundance of green space in this city. There are plenty of parks and hills and walking trails that make outdoor exploring more than just sidewalks in the city.

2. Always be willing to meet up with people.  Making new friends in a new place can be tough! Take every opportunity that arises to join activities with groups of people. Our car has yet to arrive so we have been dependent on the generosity of others to take us along on their adventures. We have been very fortunate to be included in several trips to the coast and mountains. While the destinations have been truly fabulous, sometimes the trip is even better!

3. Don’t be afraid to get out into your new community! Think about things you are passionate about and

what gifts and talents you have and share them with people. You never know what it can get you involved in. I have been practicing pilates for many years and it is something that I love very much. I mentioned this to the property manager when we first moved in and she recommended several studios. Now I go to pilates three times a week. I’m the only one in the class whose native language is not Montenegrin and it’s fantastic! Every class is exercise and a language lesson rolled into one. Seeing and greeting my classmates out in town makes this place feel much more like home. I’ve also enjoyed joining members of the International Women’s Club lunches and coffees weekly. It’s an amazing feeling when you know there are people expecting you and excited to see you.  

4. The food is great! The ingredients are always fresh and local. Isn’t it interesting that the “farm to table” trend in the US is just a way of life here? We have really enjoyed finding ways to adapt some of our favorite recipes using ingredients that are more readily available here. It is also nice that although they may be a bit more expensive, we can still find a few of our favorites such as avocados and sweet potatoes. A trip to the Green Market provides not only fantastic fresh produce but also a unique cultural experience. We have also begun to adapt to eating at different times and  some of the social customs associated with dining out. When we arrived, we were thrilled to find so many cafes and restaurants within a few blocks from our house. Early on we noticed that we were frequently the only patrons eating. As we have come to find out, spending time in the cafe is much more about enjoying the company you’re with than the espresso or Šopska salad in front of you.

5. You will make mistakes! I have a strong desire to learn as much Montenegrin as possible during our two years. I believe that it will help me to feel much more comfortable and at home here in Podgorica. Before we arrived, I worked with a tutor twice a week and have been continuing to study Montenegrin since we arrived. I am working on being braver and braver with using the language while out and about in town and it has provided us a few laughs

along the way. Just the other day, I accidentally ordered 500 kilograms of ground meat from the butcher. That would be 1,100 lbs! Fortunately, he knew I meant 500 grams and just gave me a knowing smile and a little chuckle once I realized what I’d said. We have found that people are exceptionally appreciative, patient and surprised when we speak in Montenegrin. My conclusion is that I stick out anyway, why not stick out a little more by occasionally sounding silly when attempting to speak their language!

I know these five things are only the beginning but I believe what I’ve learned the most is that I desire to be a part of this community rather than a visitor in it. Although fitting in may take awhile, I’m looking forward to it and will keep making efforts to contribute during our time here. I get the feeling that this country has much more to teach me…and I am excited to learn.