The current tourist season in Budva is experiencing a notable decline in visitor numbers compared to last year, according to Žarko Radulović, president of the Montenegrin Tourist Association, in an interview with Antena M. Radulović attributes the drop primarily to the town’s inadequate infrastructure.
Radulović points out that the first half of August marks the end of the summer season.
“This year, June, July, and early August have seen fewer tourists. While the first half of August will still see some activity, it represents the last wave of visitors. Anyone who visited Budva or the Budva Riviera last year would have noticed the lack of a quality vacation experience. That’s why I mentioned last year that 2024 would be a year for preparation,” Radulović explained.
He further criticized Budva’s appeal, citing disorganized urban infrastructure as a major factor.
“Tourists face numerous problems in Budva, including garbage and dirty streets, inadequate signage, and many pedestrian crossings that haven’t been repainted for this year. Additionally, the condition of the airports and the roads from the airport to accommodations and the beach are issues,” Radulović noted.
This infrastructure issue is also affecting accommodation prices.
“We definitely need to reduce prices, but instead, we’re being instructed to increase them. The price is not reflective of the apartment quality. Even if you have top-notch apartments, the presence of overflowing garbage containers nearby creates a poor impression and lowers the overall price,” Radulović emphasized.
He also expressed concern about the upcoming season.
“Hotels are currently performing well because their capacities were booked in advance. However, those who make online bookings might decide not to visit. For 2023, despite inflation and other challenges, hotel prices have risen by 3.1%, according to Monstat. With the new measures, we’ll need to increase prices by at least 15% next year just to break even, not to make a profit but to offset the negative impacts of current policies,” Radulović said.
He concluded that the current economic situation is unfavorable for Montenegro.
