Although criminal groups are active in Montenegro, British tourists should beware of pickpockets.
This is stated, among other things, in the instructions of the Foreign Office to citizens of Great Britain who visit Montenegro. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Great Britain points out that tourists should be most careful of street crime.
“Take precautions to protect yourself from street criminals, especially in larger cities. Beware of pickpockets in public places, such as tourist destinations, beaches, airports and public transport. Report incidents to the local police and ask them for a report," the instructions explain and warn that organized crime groups are also being dealt with in Montenegro.
“Be careful and be aware of your surroundings. In case of any incidents, follow the advice of local authorities".
In contrast to the instructions of the official London, the report published on the website of the State Department warns that there are organized criminal groups in Montenegro, involved in money laundering, drug and people smuggling. The State Department also states in the report that violence between members of criminal groups is frequent, that cars are set on fire or blown up in confrontations, as well as that members of rival gangs, as well as innocent citizens, are killed.
As in the report of the US Department of Foreign Affairs, the Foreign Office warns that Montenegrin roads are in bad condition, especially during winter and after bad weather conditions.
"The road along the Morača canyon can be especially dangerous when there are large crowds or bad weather conditions. The roads leading to the Montenegrin coast are in better condition, but there are frequent large crowds during the summer season".
It is also reminded that protests are occasionally organized in Montenegro, but that they are usually peaceful. British citizens are also warned to regularly monitor media reports and avoid large gatherings. It also warns of the possibility of terrorist attacks, especially in places popular among tourists.
"Terrorists can attack religious buildings, including churches. There is a major global threat of terrorist attacks against British citizens, by groups motivated by the war in Iraq and Syria. You should be careful."
It is also explained that the penalties for drug possession are the same as in the UK and that tourists risk prison terms for this. It is also stated that photographing people in uniforms, as well as military and police equipment, can create problems.
The Foreign Office points out that there are no laws in Montenegro that protect same-sex unions and that there is no intolerance towards homosexual couples.
“However, due to the conservative nature of society, public displays of affection can attract unwanted attention. The Pride parade has been held since 2013 without incident, although counter-protests can still occur. Before traveling to Montenegro, seek advice and information from the Montenegrin LGBT community".
Before the adventure - the instructor to show the permit
In the instructions of the Foreign Office, it is reminded that Montenegro is known for numerous tourist tours, but British citizens are advised to ask the organizers of rafting or hiking through nature for the necessary permits. "Numerous activities in nature are offered to tourists. Before signing an arrangement for, for example, learning paragliding, ask the instructor for permission to train and fly together. Take care when hiking in Montenegro and check whether you have obtained the necessary permits for rented vehicles, especially for snowmobiles.
It is also warned that earthquakes are frequent in Montenegro, but that there has been no devastating ground shaking since 1979.
It is also pointed out that there are frequent fires in the summer and that floods can be a problem during the winter due to heavy rains.
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