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The Top Ten Reasons You Should Visit Albania
By: Zosia Brown
Albania......You think you've heard of it but aren't exactly sure where it is. Perhaps you have heard of it but thought westerners couldn't visit. Or maybe you've heard it referenced in movies such as Wag the Dog, The Manchurian Candidate, and Twins but haven't given it much more thought. These are just a few of the many questions I've been asked about Albania in the 2 1/2 years I've been living here. I'll admit, when my husband first told me that we were moving to Albania, I asked myself some the very same questions. But since we've been here I've found answers to these questions as well as a slew more.
First, to answer the original questions: Albania is located across the Adriatic Sea from Italy. North of Greece, west of Kosovo and Macedonia and south of Montenegro, visiting this tiny Balkan nation is an experience like no other. And yes, there was a period of self-imposed isolationism during the mid- twentieth century when Albania's borders were closed to the outside world. Since the fall of Communism in 1991, however, the borders have been open to foreigners and they are coming. Albania is a member of NATO and engaged in a campaign to become the newest member of the European Union. The country is dirt poor in terms of economic wealth but is rich in heritage, culture, and spirit. The reasons to visit are many so check out some of the reasons you should come, buy your ticket, and come visit.
The top ten reasons you should visit Albania:
The ancient ruins: You can visit UNESCO World Heritage sites and other ancient ruins without having to deal with crowds. In fact, I don't think I've ever encountered a line at any of the historic ruins we've visited. In Albania you can visit everything from 13th century towns to 7th century ruins for mere pennies and often be the only ones visiting. Some of my favorite spots here in Albania include the ancient cities of Apollonia, Bylis, and Butrint. And only in Albania can you receive a guided tour of the largest amphitheater in the Balkans by one of the archaeologists who actually excavated the site. These sites might not be as famous as Italy's Pompeii or Greece's Acropolis but they are impressive in their own right and worth a visit.
Castles, castles, and more castles: Albania has lots of castles. They are more Nancy Drew mystery than Cinderella but their sturdy stone foundations are as solid as the Albanian people themselves. Today some are little more than stone foundations while others are well preserved historic sites but all speak to Albania's long and storied past. They are located atop hills, along the Adriatic shores, or even in the middle of fields. Some are filled with museums, cafes, and vendors selling trinkets while others are simply grassy areas where sheep graze. Regardless of which castle you visit you will be stepping back into an important part of Albania's history. Just think about the work that went into erecting these masterpieces that have withstood the test of weather and time.
Diverse geography: Do you like the mountains? How about the beach? Or perhaps mountains that plunge into the sea. Regardless of where you are in Albania, you are within a few hours of all of her diverse biospheres. Visiting the villages of the northern Albanian Alps is like going back in time. Two of my favorite are Thethi and Valbona. A visit to Thethi is like taking a trip to a land that time has forgotten. If you want to really see the stars at night you only need to spend a summer evening staring at the sky from a place that truly has zero ambient light. It is breathtaking. And despite the snakes and bugs that inhabit both places, I'd go back there in a heartbeat. If the sea is your preferred vacation spot I highly recommend the Ionian seaside village of Dhermi. Located along the Albanian Rivera, the crystal clear waters of Dhermi are sure to relax and refresh you. Visit in June or September and you will have the pebble filled beaches and warm water all to yourself.
Remnants of Communist past: History is often ugly, making societies want to suppress the unpleasantness and focus only on the positive. I believe this is a mistake because in order to know where we are going we need to know where we have been. As such, it is important to recognize even the ugliest parts of a country's history. Albania's Communist period is one such time that many would like to forget but it is impossible to do so since reminders are literally right in your face. From the characteristically blocky architecture to the solemn faced monuments, the past is alive. While not quite embracing her recent past, it appears that Albania is at least beginning to acknowledge it. A museum dedicated to Albania's Communist period is slated to open in the northern city of Shkoder in the near future. This museum will join a poignant pictorial at Albania's National History Museum and as well as an outdoor exhibit here in Tirana. For more on Albania's Communist past, see the bunkers discussion below.
Bunkers: Once upon a time Albania was ruled by a slightly paranoid dictator named Enver Hoxha. A vital part of his national defense system was the construction of over 700,000 concrete bunkers. Strategically located throughout the country as Albania's first line of defense against the invading armies that never came, these concrete mushrooms were said to be indestructible. Today the bunkers are perhaps the most visible reminder of Albania's Communist past with many still dotting the shores and hillsides, city blocks and the front yards of private houses. Some of the remaining bunkers are concrete hulks that have been stripped of their iron while others are intact and have been splashed with colorful coats of paint. Others remain concrete gray as they silently stand guard watching the world go by.
Religious freedom: Albania is an extremely religiously tolerant society with Christianity and Islam peacefully co-existing side by side. Religion runs parallel to the country's history and development with many of her early settlements being built as religious centers for the region. When Hoxha declared Albania an atheist state in 1967, the public practice of religion ceased. Churches were converted into government storage facilities but fortunately many of the most valuable religious icons were spared. A generation of Albanians was raised without a deep religious identity which has resulted in many Albanians claiming a religion in name only. Today the census says that 59% of the country identifies as Muslim and 17% as Christian. I regularly hear the call to prayer and see crowds filling the Catholic cathedral each Sunday. Orthodox churches do the hillsides in both the northern and southern parts of the country. Coming from a society where religion is so polarizing, it is refreshing to live in a place where one's religion isn't worn on their sleeve and individuals are free to worship (or not) as they please.
National pride: Albanians have a deep national pride that is evident where ever you look. They know their history dating back to ancient times, have museums, squares, and streets dedicated to their national hero Skanderbeg, and proudly wave their red and black double headed eagle flag whenever the opportunity arises. The best example of the intense national pride came last November when Albania celebrated a century of independence. In the days and weeks leading up to the 28th of November celebrations, red and black was everywhere. New double headed eagle statues were erected, flags were hung from every telephone wire and apartment block window, and car hoods were repainted with the country's flag. Everywhere I looked all I saw was a sea of red and black. The culmination of the Independence Day festivities was giant cake that was entered the Guinness Book of World Records. You can see the cake for yourself here.
Unique transportation system: Albania's transportation system is simultaneously archaic, developing, and modern. There is a rickety train system that stops at the borders and ferries that transport passengers in the most primitive of ways. Everyone seems to drive in Albania but driving is not for the faint of heart. From newly asphalt covered highways and stalled construction projects to pothole filled dirt paths and ancient cobblestone covered roads, you can drive on all of them here. On a single trip down the road you may encounter buses from another era, hundred thousand dollar vehicles, old Mercedes, furgons, and donkey carts. Drive down the road during the early morning or evening hours and you'll see babushka wearing women clutching pocketbooks standing along the road shoulders just waiting for a furgon to stop and pick them up. You are just as apt to see shepherds guiding their flocks along the highway as you are entire families riding on a single motor scooter. You never know what you will encounter as you round the corner but if you aren't fussy about your mode of transportation you really can get just about anywhere in Albania.
Dental tourism: I kid you not. Upon arriving in Albania I immediately noticed the large number of dental clinics that appeared to be located on every street corner in every city and town. Even the smallest of hamlets seems to have a resident dentist. Not all of the clinics looked clear or modern but they were there none the less. From young to old, the majority of Albanians I have met all have perfect sets of teeth. (This is especially true in the more urban areas). Even my nanny sports a bright white set of implants. I am a product of years of orthodontic work myself and have what I consider nice teeth. However, I have a fear of the dentist and dread going unless it is absolutely necessary. But after chipping a tooth I found myself sitting in an Albanian dental chair. Not only did I survive but I would return if I had to. So I can now attest to Albania's thriving dental industry. So if you need quality and affordable dental work done, combine a dental visit with a vacation and come to Albania.
The produce: I'm a foodie so I was excited to discover the never ending supply of fresh produce that fills the markets and roadside fruit and vegetable stands. Farmers and restaurants brag about their produce being organic and all natural which is due largely in part to their inability to afford chemicals and fertilizers. Rather than being a detriment, this makes the produce taste even better. Everything is local, fresh, and seasonal so I quickly learned that when you see it you must buy it because it just might not be there next week. While it has been fun to discover fruits and vegetables that are unique to this part of the world my favorite Mediterranean treats remain fresh figs and olives. In season, they are plentiful but grab them while you can since once they are gone you must wait until next year.
So come visit Albania. It is a country where old meets new on a daily basis. Your trip is sure to be an adventure and I promise that you won't be disappointed.
About the author
Zosia Brown is an American expat living in Albania. Blog description: Ramblings about parenting, Navy life, and the wild ride we are on
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Copy and paste code to display this Contest Entry Badge:Contest Comments » There are 19 comments
Jan Vetter wrote 10
years ago:
That was our very first question when we contemplated visiting Albania - "sounds interesting, but where is it located?" Having spent a month there, I can say that we experienced much of the same, with the exception of the dentist;)
CMT wrote 10
years ago:
You're absolutely right, I didn't know where Albania was before reading your post. Now I do, and I want to visit. Engaging article!
Gemma wrote 10
years ago:
We experienced most of these on our short trip to Albania in 2011. Butrint's ruins were a highlight, along with Rozafa castle and Dhermi. The views from the Llogan Pass heading down to the coast was stunning. - Gemma
VictoriaK wrote 10
years ago:
Hmm, I'm but a reasonable 4 hour flight away…thank you for highlightig Albania and adding to my travel list! :)
Donna wrote 10
years ago:
We have visited Albania twice now and it has always been filled with eye-opening experiences. Your blog has certainly been very informative.
Dave Scott wrote 10
years ago:
Good summary -- I enjoyed my time there. And I go back to go to my dentist.
Cynthia Eldridge wrote 10
years ago:
I read this blog every time Zosia writes, and it is fabulous. I lived in Albania for almost 5 years, overlapping for a couple with Zosia, and her list is spot on. Good work!
Tracy wrote 10
years ago:
Oh no! The secret is out, Albania is an amazing place, I have been here for a year and this list is spot on! Now everyone will want to come visit. I better get to Thethi before it gets crowded with tourists. Zosia's blog is always well written and full of interesting thoughts. And she is right about the dental, first place where my insurance covered the entire bill and it was top of the line equipment.
Alison Chino wrote 10
years ago:
I would love to visit Albania. I'm super fascinated with former Soviet countries and the effects of communism on a country. Plus I do love a good castle tour! :)
Katie Sullivan wrote 10
years ago:
I came upon this blog through the Expats website, hoping to live vicariously through others living abroad. By reading this blog, I've learned about Albania and seen some amazingly beautiful pictures.
Julie Callahan wrote 10
years ago:
I can relate to your post, Zosia. I moved from the US to Slovakia and then Hungary. Albania has just made my radar screen as a place to spend some more time. Your post is fascinating! Many thanks for writing.
Drita wrote 10
years ago:
As someone that originates from Albania and travels back and forth from it annually since 1993 I have been the witness to enormous changes in this nation during the past two decades. All along I have followed and enjoyed some expats’ and individuals’ blogs about their experiences in the Land of Eagles, and I have also had the pleasure of meeting some of them while they lived in Tirana. Your latest entry beautifully captures in summary format the best reasons to visit this tiny, to some mysterious country, however rich of valuable history, prized resources and precious traditions that I hope will never be forgotten. Thank you for entering this competition on behalf of Albania and I hope your entry wins. To you and your family : Season’s Greetings and lots of good luck in your future endeavors in other foreign places!
SJ Begonja wrote 10
years ago:
hello neighbour! Albania sounds more wonderful that I had ever thought, I must pop over (from Croatia) one of these days.
Test wrote 10
years ago:
this is a test comment in the system to help test social
Sarena Neyman wrote 10
years ago:
I love zosia's blog post. she is such a compelling and observant writer.
Glenn Brown wrote 10
years ago:
Perhaps I am cheating, but I have to say that Zosia's writing does an amazing job capture our experiences here in Albania. Love, The Hubby
Kit And Glenn Brown wrote 10
years ago:
We have been following Zosia's blog from day one. Her writing has been clear and concise. Her observations have been unique and always positive. She and her family took full advantage of their time in Albania to explore, learn, and have fun. Her blog will enable them to relive their experiences for years to come. What a wonderful thing she has done.
Bruno wrote 10
years ago:
What a great article! I've always been interested in visiting historic sites and i never knew Albania had so many, i must add Albania to one of my travel destinations.
Mark wrote 9
years ago:
There was a lot said, but in case you needed more details and adventoure, I would suggest to do this! Here are some tips from a fellow passionate traveller for all those who want to discover Albania: If you come in Summer I would recommend you went down to the beaches of Drimadhes, Jal, Gjipe, Livadh, Kakome, etc but try to avoid the first two weeks of August, especially in Drimadhes and Jal, cuz these beaches have become popular recently. Now is the best moment to be down there. If you wish to see how the Mediterranean is supposed to look like you have to go to Radhime or Orikum, near Vlora, and take a boat that takes you to the virgin and unspoiled beaches of Karaburun, a peninsula that has still to be discovered by the majority of Albanians themselves. Than you will enjoy a beach entirely to your self. it is amazingly beautiful. There are no roads in the entire peninsula so there are really few people there, but you can find some beaches that have parasols and sunbeds, even though there is almost nobody and no boats as well. Don’t leave without visiting the cave of Haxhi Ali. It is filled with corals, has chrystal clear water and lots of corals. It is the biggest cave of Albania and one of two or three of its kind in the whole Mediterranean. I wouldn’t recommend Saranda, too much concrete, but I would propose you went so that you see Butrint, a UNESCO world heritage site and honestly one of the best I have ever visited, and I have visited quite a few. Its location and the fact that it is the ruins of an intire city in the middle of a forest make it great. And do not leave there without visiting Syri i Kaltër (the blue eye), the source of a river in the middle of a forest, it is very cool and it is on the way to Gjitrokastra. But if you love the mountains than you have to go north and visit Theth, Bogë, Valbonë and maybe Lura (I am not sure about the last because I haven’t been there in a long time and I have heard they are “murdering” the forest). These places have breathtaking beauty and the first time i visited, the magnificence of the mountains and nature really made me believe in the fairies i used to read about in the Albanian mythology. But bear in mind that you can only visit these places in Summer cuz in Winter they are inaccessible because of the snow. And finally, if you happen to come in Spring have a trip in Southeast Albania, from Tirana to Korça (when there don’t skip Dardhë and Voskopojë), Ersekë, Përmet and finally Gjirokastër. It is absolutely gorgeous and the food is so yummy. For all those who can only make it to Tirana but still want to see some nature go to Ibë and bathe in the river but most importantly don’t leave before visiting the cave of Pëllumbas, it has prehistoric engravings. If you don’t like rain, try to skip November and sometimes January and February too, cuz when it rains here it really poors. The food is delicious, even in the dodgiest looking places. Voila, I hope to not have bothered you with my long post, but what can I say, you inspired me :)
