Albania
Jaafer Khani
I know I may say this about a lot of countries, but if you are up for adventures and breath-taking scenery, I highly recommend this unique country. Let’s start with the most important thing… safety. From doing some online research I learned that there was slight risk to visiting Albania. However, throughout my 3 weeks of driving all over the country, I felt that it was extremely safe.
The people are wonderful, though many do not speak English, navigating around the country is easier than I expected. Google maps isn’t as accurate as one would like but it gets the job done. I don’t recommend getting a vehicle in Tirana, especially if you are staying in downtown since driving there requires some extra skillsets. Outside of the capital, it’s a beautiful drive anywhere you go. The roads are scenic and curvy, especially in the mountains, but the view is unlike any other.
Before the early 90s, Albania was under a communist regime for decades and the remanence of the communist era remains in small details as you explore the nation. There is also a distinct difference between exploring the capital Tirana and smaller towns and villages.
The capital is what you’d expect from any major city, busy atmosphere, great nightlife, no parking anywhere, large shopping centers, and great selection of food and beverages. Smaller towns are a great way to understand the Albanian culture a bit better. You must try the local bakeries and coffee shops that are located almost everywhere. I think Albania has a huge coffee culture like many other European countries. Even in remote villages, you will still encounter small cafes where the locals hang around.
During my travels, I met some incredible people leading some of the best organizations in Albania. The passion, energy, and hope that these friends have in unlike any other. Albanians are proud of their country and want to help progress the nation despite the difficulties and lack of funding they may face.
All the organizations we met, mentioned that funding was an issue and they relied heavily on outside funds (Non-governement European support). In conclusion, there are some amazing folks working effortlessly to change the future of Albania, and the country itself is full of breathtaking views. For anyone considering a trip to Albania, please make sure to check out some of the awesome organizations and drink lots of good coffee.
Jas Toor
Albania, what a beautiful country from the dreamy coast down south up to the scenic northern mountainsides. Driving through the country, you’re sure to witness breathtaking sunsets, hills that roll on for days, and roads that carve up a mountain with the beauty of a master sculpturist.
Despite the incredible driveability within the country, one thing that you should be aware about is that free parking is quite difficult to come across in the centre of most major cities. Given the rich history of the country and the sheer amount of time that it has been a civilized society, the large urban centres weren’t meant to handle mass amounts of personal vehicles. However, don’t fear, what you’re getting from this rich history greatly outweighs the nuances of parking. Albania features relics of the past almost anywhere you go.
Aside from the major castles that attract many tourists, you will literally see smaller castles as you drive from town to town. The monuments from different historical periods are sure to delight those that seek to look back in time. A lush natural beauty supports this historical metropolis. Albania has flowing rivers and incredible natural scenes that the most expensive CGI experts in Hollywood would be hard pressed to develop…don’t believe me?
Just take a visit to “The Eye” and tell me I’m wrong. The coffee culture in this country is incredible. It is rare to see a coffee shop empty and oftentimes the crowds will extend well into the night. Westerners beware! Those large cups and Americano’s that you’re used to can be found but are not common and require precise descriptions and hand gestures to signal that you’re one of the heathens that doesn’t drink coffee out of a shot glass.
Albanians, like many of their European neighbours, LOVE their coffee, which is to some degree expected. Now what we didn’t expect and are embarrassed to admit, as our partners have us on strict diets, is that there are 2 or 3 bakeries on every single block. They are all amazing, and the gelato at most of these bakeries is practically free.
Needless to say, our daily 6-minute 6-pack workouts were no match for our 6-pack of muffins. Albania – it is full of loving and amazing people. We met some incredible folk that are working to make the world a better place. If you find yourself in this country, pay them a visit and have a traditional Byrek in our honor!