Travel to Albania – Episode 856

Hear about travel to Albania as the Amateur Traveler talks to Norm Bour from travelyounger.com about the country where they spent nearly 6 months as expats.

Why should you go to Albania? 

Norm says, 

“Travel is back. I think anyone who’s listening to this is either a wannabe or a real traveler, and unfortunately, along with the fact that travel is back comes everything that goes with it, including the crowds and including the fact that everything is [more expensive]. There are certain countries, primarily Eastern Europe where the affordability factor is really strong. Turkey being one where we spent about eight or nine months, and Albania being the second one.”

“So basically you have the beauty of Greece. Italy, Slovenia. You have the greenery of Slovenia, you have the affordability of Turkey, but yet you have an amazing, brilliant Riviera coastline and just really beautiful, wonderful people. A lot of times Eastern Europe gets short shrift on people think that they’re curt and rude, but the truth is Albanian people are just lovely. They’ll go, out of their way to help you if ever you need help or are lost or anything along those lines.”

Norm is the author of Nomadic Life for All Ages.

Two typical ways to enter Albania are by flying into the dynamic capital city of Tirana or by entering through Northern Greece on a ferry from Corfu. We focus on the latter as Norm lived in the southern city of Sarandë during his stay.

In the picturesque coastal town of Sarandë, take in the breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea as you dine at Taverna Pshkatari, renowned for its delectable seafood dishes. As you venture further inland, be sure to visit the imposing Lëkurësi Castle, perched high above Sarandë, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea beyond. 

Immerse yourself in ancient history with a visit to the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can wander among well-preserved Roman ruins.

Just a short distance from Sarandë, discover the beach town of Ksamil, with its crystal-clear aqua-green waters and clean beaches. Relax on the shores of mirror beach. 

Continuing along the coastline, you’ll reach Vlorë, a cosmopolitan city steeped in historical significance. Ascend the winding Llogara Pass, which Norm says is a great ride on a motorcycle. 

Journeying eastward, you’ll arrive in the historic city of Gjirokastër, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Explore the imposing Gjirokastër Castle, wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town, and delve into the city’s fascinating history.

While in Albania, Norm joined a hiking group that introduced him to the country’s interior and its small towns like Vergo and Navaricë. Inland you can also visit the Blue Eye, a natural spring with stunning turquoise waters. 

Norm tells us of a few side trips into neighboring countries like Corfu in Greece and Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in North Macedonia.

Make a stop in the bustling city of Durrës, with its ferries that can connect you to Italy across the Adriatic Sea.

Albania is not as undiscovered as it used to be, but it still offers beautiful views at bargain prices.

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Show Notes

Albania
Tirana
Corfu
Sarandë
Butrint
Ksamil
Vlorë
Llogara Pass
Blue Eye, Albania
Lëkurësi Castle
Enver Hoxha
Ioannina
Borsh, Albania
Gjirokastër
Himarë
Byrek (Albanian Cheese Triangles)
Lake Ohrid
Durrës
Vergo
Taverna Pshkatari, Saranda
Skanderbeg Square
Albania: Stay For A Year; Stay For A Lifetime

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