Undervalued Destination Preferred Over Italy and Greece: Opinion of Two Travel Bloggers
Chilling in the Underrated Beauty of Albania
Travel enthusiasts Alicia Walter and Nathan Stark have explored an astounding 47 countries, but their hearts belong to the enchanting, underrated gem of Albania. This Balkan hidden treasure offers a unique blend of breathtaking nature, rich culture, warm hospitality, and an almost unfathomable affordability that drew the couple to settle there.
In an exclusive sit-down, we delved into the pair's fascinating nomadic journey, their passion for Albania, and the challenges they faced simultaneously adapting to life in this vibrant European nation and maintaining a busy travel schedule.
Albania: A Lesser-Known Wonderland
The duo, who run the popular travel blog The Passport Couple, narrated how Albania captivated them with its staggering beauty, surprisingly untouched by mass tourism compared to other European destinations. The country's appealing food and welcoming locals had them feeling like family almost instantly.
While Albania isn't perfect, with lingering effects from the end of communism and the devastating 2019 earthquake, those imperfections only add to its charm. The ever-evolving landscape keeps Alicia and Nathan on their toes, as it feels like they're continually discovering new parts of the country.
A Haven for Nature Lovers
Stretching across the Adriatic Sea from Italy and bordering Greece and Montenegro, Albania boasts an incredible diversity in landscapes. The climate mirrors the Mediterranean, boasting mild winters and hot summers, particularly inland, while the coast enjoys more pleasant temperatures.
The Albanian Riviera, a stunning coastal stretch along the Ionian Sea, promises crystal-clear, blue waters, and Theth National Park, with its autumnal splendor, steals hearts with its picturesque beauty. The country also offers mountains such as the Albanian Alps, the Korab Mountains, and the Tomorr Mountains, ideal for hiking despite lacking ski resorts.
A Wallet-Friendly Utopia
After three years of chronic wanderlust, the couple decided to settle in Tirana, Albania's capital, in 2023. Living expenses are notably lower than in the US, offering them the opportunity to invest more in their travel business. They now live in a furnished one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the city, paying just a fraction of what they would have in other European cities for the same living standards.
The culinary scene is another budget-friendly delight. Despite some international eateries being a bit pricier, traditional Albanian meals are incredibly affordable, often costing less than €45 for five or six shared dishes and drinks.
Public transportation is both cheap and plentiful, with buses within the city costing only 40 cents and shuttles to other cities running for around €10. Electric taxis are also prevalent, making ride-sharing accessible.
A Pedestrian and Socially-Focused City
The pedestrian-friendly layout of Tirana makes daily essentials easy to reach on foot, including a grocery store, bakery, fruit and vegetable stand, and English bookstore. The city doesn't have a thriving nightlife, but it encourages socializing in what are called "third spaces" – shared common areas in apartment complexes where families gather, especially at sunset.
These gatherings, known as "xhiro," offer an opportunity for locals to mingle, relax, and form connections. Cafés are also essential to the Albanian culture, serving as social hubs where people linger for hours over an espresso and water.
Living in Albania: Trade-Offs and Opportunities
Despite the multitude of advantages Albania offers, there are drawbacks that come with the territory. For instance, shopping needs to be done in various locations due to the lack of convenience stores, and delivery can sometimes be unreliable due to unclear addresses.
However, the country's visa policy is a major advantage for travelers, as US citizens receive a 365-day visa upon arrival, and the clock on their Schengen visa resets upon entering the EU. The accommodating locals also extend a helping hand in showing newcomers the ropes.
Although the couple's ultimate dream is to own a house in Italy, they're reveling in their current Albanian existence for the time being. If you're yearning for a picturesque setting, captivating culture, and a simple yet fulfilling lifestyle, perhaps Albania is the hidden treasure you've been searching for.
What kind of lifestyle do Alicia and Nathan enjoy in Albania, with its mix of affordability, natural beauty, and local connections?
When it comes to travel, Albania offers a wallet-friendly utopia with its low living expenses, budget-friendly food, and inexpensive public transportation.
