Are you ready to explore Albania?

Want some time away from the maddening noise and pollution of city life? Wouldn’t a walk on a sandy beach, skiing in snow pecked mountains and taking or evening stroll through streets lined with outdoor cafes help rejuvenate your senses?

If you are desperate to indulge in such pleasures then you could consider taking a trip to Albania. Albania offers much more than a beach and mountain vacation experience. It presents to its visitors an opportunity to explore many archaeological parks, sites, fortresses, castles and some eminent locations of historical importance.

Here are few things that you would like to know about this country before making a choice:

Climate:

Albania enjoys a moderate Mediterranean climate. During winter the temperature is in the range of 8-10 degree Celsius. Summer could be as hot as 40 degree Celsius.

The ideal seasons to enjoy the Albanian beauty are spring and fall. The colorful displays of flora during these seasons would add a touch of splendor to your vacation. The spring with long evenings is the best season to take advantage of sidewalk cafes and terraces which the country is famous for. In September and October the country would still be warm enough to take a dip in the southern coast.

Commuting within the country and Money Matters:

You could travel between the main cities using the reasonably priced bus services. Another viable option is hiring a taxi. Dajiti Express Cable car ride in Dajiti mountain is a must have 15 minutes ride that would take you to Tirana. The bank of Tirana is the best option to withdraw funds as you can access your Visa cards. Not all small towns in Albania have currency exchange outlets. Also you should keep in mind that Albanian hotels and restaurants do not accept Travelers’ Cheques.

Food, Dining & Nightlife:

Albanian food is surely a treat to your palate, if you enjoy ottoman and Italian food. The country is filled with restaurants to suit different budgets although the choice in smaller towns is less.

Albanian vineyards make premium quality wines from native grapes like Kallmet and Sesh, the former being red and latter white&red. Do not forget to taste Raki, a spirit drink made of grapes that is Albania’s national drink. Apart from this Albania is famous for its espressos and cappuccinos.

Tirana has a sizzling night life with pubs and clubs open till very late. Although this feature is rare in smaller towns. If you enjoy high standard classical music in the form of ballets, operas and concerts, then Tirana hosts them throughout the year.

Top 5 Places to Visit:

• Ancient city o Apollonia
• Bridge at Mesi
• Medieval Forest of Albanian Alps
• Drisht Castle
• Ancient Port of Durres.

How to get there?

1. Easiest means to get to Albania is through air. Albanian airlines are well connected to all European cities. Mother Teresa Airport is 26 km away from the capital city and there are regular buses to the city centre.

2. Taking ferries provided by Adriatic lines from main ports such as Italy, Bari, Ancona and Corfu to Durres and Vlora is another option.

3. There are also bus services from Istanbul, Athens and Sofia. What are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the pure beauty that remains untouched by globalization.