What is everyday life really like in Montenegro for someone moving from the UK, US, or Western Europe?

Montenegro offers a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle with a strong sense of community, though it differs significantly from life in the UK, US, or Western Europe in several ways:  

Pace and atmosphere:

• Life moves more slowly; shops and services may close for extended lunch breaks
• Personal relationships matter—locals value face-to-face interaction and building trust over time
• Bureaucracy can feel slower and less digitized than in Western Europe  
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Social culture:

• Café culture is central; people spend hours over coffee discussing everything from family to politics
• Dining is social and leisurely, often extending late into the evening
• Neighbors and local shopkeepers tend to know each other well  
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Practical adjustments:

• English is widely spoken in coastal tourist areas and major towns, but less so in rural regions -
• Infrastructure is generally good in cities and coastal areas, but can be more basic inland -
• Seasonal variation is significant—coastal towns are lively in summer, quieter in winter  
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Most expats report that the initial cultural adjustment takes a few months, but once you adapt to the pace and build local connections, the quality of life—especially around work-life balance, outdoor access, and cost—feels significantly better than in more expensive Western markets.