Ugosti.me is a local Montenegrin online platform, founded in Bar with the aim of providing an alternative to global giants such as Booking.com and Airbnb. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism, the platform seeks to extend Montenegro’s tourist season into the autumn months and ultimately operate year-round, promoting legal and transparent business practices for both hosts and guests.
According to Vladimir Jovanović, one of the platform’s founders, Ugosti.me was created after analyzing the challenges faced by accommodation providers in Montenegro, as well as the limitations of the tourist season, which is heavily influenced by the high fees and policies of international booking platforms.
How the Platform Works
Ugosti.me is entirely developed in-house, and it operates strictly in accordance with Montenegrin law, including tax, tourism, and contractual regulations. Every host on the platform must provide proof of registration in compliance with the Montenegrin Tourism Law, ensuring that all listings are legal and regulated.
The platform charges a total booking fee of 8% (shared between the guest and host), which is significantly lower than the 15–20% fees charged by international platforms. According to Jovanović, this model allows the full income to remain in Montenegro and helps make the country a more competitive tourist destination.
During the initial promotional period, hosts pay no fees to the platform, while guests benefit from lower prices compared to bookings through foreign services. All payments are processed securely: guests pay the full amount upfront, and the platform transfers the funds to the host’s local bank account within 24 hours of the guest’s check-in. This system eliminates delays, currency conversion costs, and other hidden fees often associated with international platforms.
Guest Protection and Sustainability
Ugosti.me protects guests by offering only registered, verified accommodations. This approach reduces risks associated with informal bookings, such as paying for stays that may not exist. Initially, the platform is focusing on the autumn and winter seasons to promote sustainable tourism beyond the traditional summer months.
The platform also emphasizes cooperation with local authorities and encourages hosts to operate legally, helping to formalize Montenegro’s accommodation market. By offering a local alternative, Ugosti.me gives hosts and guests a safer, more affordable, and legally compliant option, while reducing dependency on international platforms.
Looking Ahead
Ugosti.me plans to further enhance its services, including the digitalization of tourist taxes to simplify payments for guests and hosts. Jovanović also notes the challenges posed by global platforms leveraging artificial intelligence to manipulate prices and market conditions, highlighting the importance of relying on regional and local solutions.
In short, Ugosti.me is a Montenegrin platform that combines legal compliance, affordability, and user-friendly service, offering a competitive and reliable alternative to international booking giants.
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