This week we dive into a Montenegro Hotspot, Ananti Resort, Residences & Beach Club. We sat down with Iva Cukovic to find out more about this incredible location.

1.Such a beautiful name for a resort of this magnitude, could you share the story behind the name; Ānanti?

Located near the Sveti Stefan island, Ananti resort offers beachfront living at its most stylish and luxurious. Its contemporary Mediterranean and Asian design is seamlessly crafted into the land- scape, gently flowing from verdant down to the beautiful sand beach, with panoramic views across the open Adriatic which gives guests a sense of peace, therefore Ananti is named after Shanti and Ananda, which means inner peace and happiness, and that's the name of the two wings in which 14 apartments are arranged.

2.As such a remote location, what challenges could one in your position face daily?

There are many challenges. We live in such a fast-moving world; the biggest challenge is to keep up with new trends and to adapt to them. Our business is constantly evolving, for example, the booking industry has changed. Guests have many choices nowadays; we have to keep up with the changes. We have to be present in all sales channels. Also, the season in Montenegro lasts only 6 months, one of the challenges is to keep the hotel open throughout the year.

3.From a personal perspective, what are your favorite aspects of Ānanti Resort Residences & Beach Club?

Ananti is unique. A tranquil escape, far from the busy world. The stunning private beach and privacy of the villas, spectacular location, stunning architecture, comfort, and outstanding service. Luxury villas and apartments offer privacy to guests to disconnect from everyday life and enjoy the incredible view offered by each accommodation unit in Ananti resort.

4.Would you say that Montenegro is slowly becoming one of the world’s top luxury travel destinations?

Arguably the best luxury destination in Europe is Montenegro, which is displaying one of the highest growth rates in the continent. Since breaking from Serbia in 2006, the Balkan country has reinvented itself as a must-see destination for wealthy travelers seeking an unspoiled escape. Even though Montenegro is tiny, tourism there is booming as modern jet-setters, celebrities, and discerning tourists fall in love with its undiscovered beauty.

With five national parks, five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, six nature parks, two marine protected areas, three Ramsar sites, and numerous lakes, Montenegro is known as a country rich in natural diversity in a tiny region. In addition, it has a rich cultural, historical, and multicultural heritage and authentic gastronomy. Still, its potential is not entirely and sufficiently realized thus far, meaning it has excellent scope to develop into a year-round luxury destination.

5.Ānanti has an incredible offering, could you tell us more about the planning for guest arrival?

Simply pre-arrange your stay through the Personal Preference which is sent by our reservation department along with the confirmation letter. There is nothing else to worry about as our experienced staff will make sure to provide you with a request for private car pick up at the airport. We also prepare everything for your arrival and, if desired, book your spa treatments or roman- tic dinner before your plane lands in Montenegro.

6.Elaborating on that, what do you believe makes a successful experience for a guest at Ānanti?

We are a resort with only 8 villas and 14 apartments; therefore, a small team makes guests feel at home in our hotel. We try to fulfill all requests and we are maximally dedicated to each guest. Everything is included in our room rates such as the Internet, coffee, and sunbeds on the beach and pool. We don't use words like check-in and check-out. Whoever comes to our resort is a guest—not a customer or client.

7.Could you tell us more about your journey to being at Ānanti?

I've always had a passion to work for luxury resorts especially if it's in the country where I grew up. In this way, I will promote the country I love and know best as a dream travel destination, which I believe it is.

8.With such an interesting and innovative offering at Ānanti, what could you tell us about what the future holds for the resort?

I am addicted to non-traditional concepts, so my vision for Ananti is for it to be recognised for personalized service and quality standards and to be consistent in the promotion of elegance, creativity, and future development. We pride ourselves on truly customizing every stay to suit each of our guests. I also hope we will open more hotels and bring the Ananti concept to other countries — especially outside of Montenegro. I would love to open one in Croatia or Greece. It would be a great challenge but rewarding experience.