Since voting for indepencence from Serbia last year Montenegro has "exploded onto the world's tourism stage...in a shower of talent, delivery and unexpected beauty" according to Vesna Maric, a travel writer for Lonely Planet.

It is not just Montenegro's stunning Adriatic coastline that has been attracting visitors - there are also wonderful ancient towns to explore, great food and wine and some spectacular scenery, with Kotor in particular praised as a "gem to be savoured."

Cannons blasted salutes yesterday to mark the first anniversary of Montenegro's independence and the leaders of Europe's newest country renewed promises to take the Balkan nation into NATO and the European Union.
On 21st May last year the Montenegrin people voted to sever their state's alliance with Serbia, bringing a formal end to the last union of the Yugoslavian federation. This tiny state of 600,00 people officially proclaimed independence on 3rd June 2006.

Yes, on July 9th rock ledgends the Rolling Stones will be playing a concert on Jaz Beach, Budva, as part of their European tour. This is Montenegro's biggest musical event ever, so if you are in the country make sure you get there. Tickets went on sale on May 7th and prices start at 50 euros.