6 MIND-BLOWING Differences Between Montenegrins and Other Cultures

6 MIND-BLOWING Differences Between Montenegrins and Other Cultures

We’re constantly asked, “So, what makes Montenegron different from other nationalities? Are there any special or unique traits?” Let’s figure out together what it is that makes Montenegron who they are. I’m in a unique position to answer this question. I’m Montenegrin myself. I studied and lived in Russia for a long time. And now, because of my work, I interact a lot with Europeans. This video will be useful both for tourists who want to understand the local mentality and for those planning to move to Montenegro. So, let’s get started. The first thing that stands out is our philosophy of Samoa, which literally translates to just take it easy. Other nationalities often mock this as laziness and to be honest, not without reason. Still, Montenegrrons also have to study and work, so they look for an efficient way to get things done without letting it affect the rest of their lives. That’s where the tendency to put things off until tomorrow comes from. Imagine a Montenegron can sit in a cafe for hours over a single cup of espresso. This isn’t procrastination. It’s Bulan style cultural huga. Life is more important than work and people matter more than rushing. But for Russians and Eastern Europeans in general, things are different. Or a Montenegrin would say, “Take it easy.” A Russian would most likely reply, “There’s no time to rest. We need to work.” At the same time, they’re always torn between two forces. The desire to change everything for the better and the desire to preserve their familiar way of life. Western Europeans, on the other hand, the Germans, French, Scandinavians, live by the principles of structure and personal responsibility. They have everything organized, a plan, deadlines, rules. If a Montenegron says, “Let’s do it tomorrow.” A European will ask, “What time tomorrow?” And in this clash of mentalities, Montenegro seems like a world of its own, where no one is in a hurry and life is measured not by tasks, but by moments. Second, it’s our family system. A want family isn’t just parents and children. It’s bloodline and godparent relationships, too. Every family belongs to a certain bloodline, which is passed down through the male line. Knowing your clan is part of your identity. Here, it’s totally normal to ask someone, “Who are you?” when you meet them meaning which family are you from? So people might not know me personally but they know my last name and therefore some of my close relatives which instantly helps break the ice when meeting for the first time. And God parenthood is a spiritual kinship that comes through baptism. It’s considered almost sacred and is equated with blood relations. It’s a kind of official bond of friendship for life. The traditional Montenegron family is deeply patriarchal. Newlyweds often move in with the groom’s family where the grandfather or father is the head. Three generations can easily live under one roof. The wife is not expected to help provide for the family. The husband takes full responsibility for this. Her main role is to care for the children and the home. In Europe, especially in Western countries, men and women have equal rights. This is not just taught. Gender equality is enshrined in law and supported by the culture. For example, in Sweden, men take parental leave on par with women, and this is considered normal. In the Netherlands, partners often split household duties equally, both cooking and taking care of the children. Either way, here’s an interesting fact. In Montenegro, being a waiter is more often a male profession. In Russia or Europe, it’s usually considered women’s work, but here, men work in a service industry without any problem. Men in society often take on active social roles like greeting and serving guests. After all, hospitality is an important part of the culture. Waiters are essentially the face of the establishment, and men are often expected to provide a sense of security, authority, and responsibility in such roles. The third feature of our mentality is mo everything is possible. The Montenegrin is confident that he can handle any task even if he has never done it before. Need to build a house? Moj. Need your car fixed? Moj. Need to start a business? Moa. But here’s the paradox. This is combined with fatalism. What must come will come. There’s no point in rushing. This creates an interesting duality. Optimism in the short term, but apathy toward long-term planning. Russians, on the other hand, believe in an ideal future, but are skeptical about the present. Europeans tend to rely more on systems and rational planning. and us. We improvise, believe in ourselves, but don’t stress about tomorrow. And you know what? It often works. Fourth, this is our pride. Montenegrons are incredibly proud of their history of resisting conquest. We might criticize our own country as much as we want, but if a foreigner says something bad about Montenegro, expect an explosion. Yes, we’re hot-tempered, much more hot-tempered than Russians. Russians might get offended or indignant, but to really explode, that’s a Monteneekan thing, especially if someone is showing off or demanding service from us in a condescending way. Our pride is easily hurt, but there’s a catch. We show up less than, say, Russians do. In other words, I’d put it like this. For Russians, money needs power. But for Montenegrron, it’s about being cool. Try parking wherever you want and telling a cop, “Do you know who I am?” You’ll get in trouble real quick for that kind of arrogance. That doesn’t fly here. Fifth is the culture of being neighbors. Neighbors in Montenegro are like extended family. We help each other out without any formal agreements. We often leave our doors unlocked. Trusting your neighbors to look after your things or even your kids is just normal here. But there’s another side to it. The culture of gossip. News spreads at the speed of light. Everyone knows what’s going on with their neighbor. For Europeans, this is a nightmare. No privacy at all. For us, it’s a kind of caring in its own way. The country is small. Everyone knows each other. There’s less bullying in schools because all the parents know each other. Conflicts get resolved faster. Europeans value personal space, distance, and privacy. Russians also rely on personal connections, but in a more formal way. But we we live in a culture of unconditional trust within small communities. But here’s the paradox. We don’t trust government institutions. We trust people, not systems. For example, important issues and problems are first solved through personal channels, acquaintances, and connections, and only then through official channels. Sixth is our ability to react quickly. Yes, often such a small country doesn’t have enough resources to solve every problem. But when something extraordinary happens, Montenegro responds in a flash. We can pass legislative changes in a matter of weeks, while other countries often need much more time. Here’s a fact that will surprise you. Just one generation ago, goats and cows used to roam around Budva. My father told me that he used to walk along the Adriatic Highway, where there are now hotels and restaurants, and saw old houses with goats and pigs. In 50, 70 years, we’ve gone from a shepherd society to a tourist mecca. That’s an incredible speed of transformation. Yes, we’re behind Europe in terms of progress. But ask anyone over the past 5 years? A lot has changed for the better. And what will happen in another 5 years? So, what is it that makes Montenegrons Montenegron? We value family and close relationships, but we’re skeptical of the government, but only we are allowed to criticize it. We’re good-natured, but quick-tempered. We may be lazy, but we get the job done. Proud, but not showoffs. On the outside, we often seem unapproachable and distant. But if you manage to break through the first layer and become friends with us, warmth and support await you. The entire Balkans is a great paradox. One foot in the traditional past, the other in the modern future. And you know what? We feel so comfortable. If you’re heading to Montenegro, forget about strict schedules and the constant desire to get everything done today. Take it easy. Come visit. We’re waiting for you.

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What makes Montenegrins so different from the rest of Europe?
In this video, we dive into the real Montenegrin mentality — a unique mix of warmth, pride, fatalism, and calm confidence that defines life in this Balkan country.

You’ll discover why people here never rush, how family ties shape society, and why Montenegrins seem relaxed yet manage to get things done. Told by someone who’s lived both in Russia and Europe — this is an insider look at what truly makes Montenegro, Montenegro.

🕒 Timestamps
00:00 — Intro
00:20 — 1. “Samo polako”
01:42 — 2. Family and Godparenthood
02:35 — 3. Hospitality
03:16 — 4. “Može”
03:53 — 5. National Pride
04:33 — 6. The Culture of Neighbours
05:31 — 7. Fast Adaptation
06:25 — Conclusion: What Makes Montenegrins, Montenegrin
06:45 — Final Thoughts

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