After a personal loss and a demanding career in the UK, a former private health business consultant has found a new chapter of life in the coastal town of Igalo, Montenegro. The move, which took place in 2022, marked a significant lifestyle shift from a busy urban environment in Manchester to a quiet, rural Mediterranean setting.
The woman first visited Montenegro seven years ago with her late husband and was drawn to the country’s charming coastal towns, secluded beaches, and scenic harbours. Following her husband’s passing five years ago and a subsequent nervous breakdown, she sought a fresh start away from the stresses of her professional and personal life. Igalo appealed to her for its laid-back atmosphere, warm climate, and proximity to the European Union border, providing a convenient base to explore other countries.
After viewing around 20 properties over two weeks, she purchased a two-bedroom farmhouse on the outskirts of Igalo for approximately €80,000 (about £69,000). The home came fully furnished and included a terrace overlooking rural land, fruit trees, and even a wooden chicken coop left by previous owners. The property represented a considerable value compared to the sale of her three-bedroom apartment in Manchester, which fetched £300,000.
Living comfortably on her UK pension and the proceeds from her property sale, she highlighted the lower cost of living in Montenegro. Weekly groceries cost approximately €40 compared to £140 in Manchester, and she bought a second-hand vehicle for €5,000 to maintain mobility. Dining out is also more affordable, with meals typically not exceeding €25 per person, allowing her to enjoy fresh local fish and wine frequently.
Her daily routine includes long morning walks in nearby woodlands, hikes, biking, and tennis. She appreciates the rustic charm of the surrounding countryside, characterized by olive groves and historic stone hamlets, which offer a much quieter environment compared to busier coastal areas. Efforts to integrate with the local community have been aided by the prevalence of English among residents and connections with other expatriates in the area.
Despite the overall positive transition, the summer months pose challenges due to temperatures reaching as high as 40°C. To cope with the heat, she adjusts her activities to early mornings and evenings, spending afternoons indoors with air conditioning. A small pool at her home offers limited relief, as it often becomes too warm.
Although settled in Montenegro, she maintains strong ties to the UK, visiting her brother and nieces in London during the hottest months. These visits help her stay connected with family, reflecting that her relocation represents a desire for positive change rather than a break from her past.
Her experience underscores a growing trend among retirees and expatriates seeking affordable, tranquil lifestyles in lesser-known European destinations while balancing the complexities of climate, culture, and community integration.