Regional Development Agency (RDA) for Bjelasica, Komovi and Prokletije proudly announces the official start of the independent verification process for rural households undergoing the Good Travel Seal certification. This is a prestigious international award confirming that the operations of a specific tourism business meet high environmental standards, care for the local community, and preserve cultural heritage. The first impressions of the international auditor, Kirsi Hyvaerinen, confirm what we have been emphasizing for years: our rural households are true pillars of sustainable development.
Over 80% of food from own and local production
One of the key assets of our hosts, which sets them apart on the European market, is their authentic gastronomic offer. Among the households that have entered the certification process, over 80% of the food served to guests is locally produced.
This data clearly shows that rural households of Montenegro do not offer just accommodation, but a complete experience based on tradition, ecology, and the principles of regenerative tourism.
Although the first impressions from the field are full of optimism thanks to the incredible effort of the hosts (such as the Bulajić families, Rajko and Danijela, Žižela and Nenad, Miško, Marko, and many others), the audit process has also highlighted chronic problems that these visionaries face.
Challenges in the field: The system must follow the effort of individuals
After visiting the field, auditor Hyvaerinen pointed out a clear message: “There is no sustainable business in an unsustainable environment.” While small entrepreneurs struggle painstakingly to meet rigorous EU criteria and open doors to the high-spending market (value no volume), road conditions, illegal waste, and neglected infrastructure (even near national parks) warn that institutional support and the system must be more efficient.
Through the Cross Border Tourism (Cross-Re-Tour) project and cooperation with RDA, our hosts learn and apply strict EU directives, proving that an ecological state is not built with empty promises, but with concrete actions in the field.
Proud of our hosts
Ahead of us is a week of intensive work, visits, and detailed verification of every single criterion in the north of the country. We are exceptionally proud of our hosts, who through their daily work transfer true values to the next generations and keep the promise of Montenegro as a truly green destination.
Follow our website and social media for new updates on the first holders of the Good Travel Seal certificate in Montenegro!
