After my experience and the feedback of some of my friends, I feel it's important to set out the particularities (positive and negative) of Albania, to avoid any surprises and to be prepared for certain peculiarities of the country.
1. Public beaches are non-existent (or almost so)
This is something to bear in mind if you decide to visit Albania. During the summer season (especially July/August), many beaches are covered in sunbathers. Beach bars and hotels alike take these areas by storm, and it's a subject of much debate in the country. We're used to taking our towels and umbrellas and spending the day at the beach on the French coast, but it's quite different here... Normally, the ends of beaches are supposed to provide a public space for everyone, but this is not always respected. Nevertheless, rates are often more attractive than in France. Most rental companies charge by the day, averaging €25 for two deckchairs and a parasol.
2. Drivers and roads are unusual
You may have already read about this, and unfortunately on this one I can't say it's a cliché. Albanians sometimes drive irresponsibly, so I must advise you to be extra vigilant.
Beyond the driving, some roads can be tiring (curves, poor visibility, potholes...), and, yes, some landscapes have to be earned. Nevertheless, most roads offer splendid panoramas.
As for city traffic, the same applies, but beware: traffic lights are rare and stop signs almost non-existent. Albanian pride often makes for an enormous cacophony. Some impatient drivers won't hesitate to force their way through as if their lives depended on it!
In the end, depending on the roads you take, you may come across herds of cattle (cows, sheep, goats...), so remember to share the road with them (they'll let you know you're in their home ;)).
Nevertheless, I've never had any problems, no fender-benders or accidents, simply because I've doubled my vigilance every time. In conclusion, I can't say that driving was always a pleasure, but I can tell you that my stress level was the same as in Italy. (seriously, have you ever seen Italians driving calmly on the freeway?)
3. Sun & heat
Augusters, I hope the heat doesn't scare you! The hottest temperatures in Albania are indeed in August. It's good to know this, even if it's true of many European destinations. Indeed, it's not uncommon to see 40° C in most of the country, which can quickly make your stay complicated if you can't stand the heat and are planning to go hiking, for example.
4. Showers
How can you talk about Albania without mentioning its bathroom architecture? Nothing dramatic here, but it may come as a surprise the first time. You should know that many establishments, even those built recently, sometimes have showers without walls - yes, you read that right, just a shower head and you're done. For those of you who are particularly interested in bathrooms, I'd advise you to take a good look at the photos of the establishment you select. Once again, I'm talking here about homestays or small independent hotels.
For the record, I had rented an apartment remotely for 3 months in a new building in Tirana, and when I arrived, I discovered a pair of sandals in front of the bathroom, then a mop and finally, I understood when I opened the door... A shower without glass, without walls, without anything. I hope you're not upset with the idea of mopping up after your shower! 🙂
5. Shop hours
In Albania, there's no need to look at the clock. Would you like to eat seafood at 10 a.m., 3 p.m. or 5 p.m.? No problem! Stores, bars and restaurants are open almost non-stop. Albanians don't really have a set time for eating, at least not as much as in France. It's not uncommon to see a local sitting down to soup at 8 a.m. or to smell grilled meats at more or less the same time.
The same applies to the days of the week: our Sundays are often devoted to relaxation, as almost all stores are closed, whereas in Albania this is completely non-existent.
6. Luxury cars
Albania wouldn't be Albania without Mercedes. From the old 1990 model to the latest, you won't know where to turn. This may be disconcerting when you consider that Albania is one of the poorest countries in Europe, but it's a fact and I couldn't possibly explain why. Well, we might have to talk about a few stormy subjects, so we'll just look at the cars... ☺
The most surprising thing is to come across a big 4x4 and then just behind it, an old scooter repaired 100 times or even a man pulled by a horse.
7. Gas station
Petrol stations in Albania are like in France 30 years ago, with an employee to fill your tank.
At all hours of the day and night, it's not uncommon to see pump attendants outside waiting for a vehicle to stop and fill up.
Beware, many stations only take cash, so make sure you always have some with you.
8. Religions in harmony
In Albania, religions live in harmony. In the late 1960s, the practice of religion was banned under Enver Hoxha's regime; it was only after the fall of communism that religious practices gradually returned.
The country is the only one in Europe with a predominantly Muslim (Sunni) population, although this coexists with almost 20% Christians. It's worth noting that the Bektashis have had a strong influence here.
Generally speaking, Catholics are present in the north of the country, Orthodox in a few southern regions, while Islam and Bektashism occupy the rest of the country.
We should all follow the example set by this country, which proves to everyone that religion and peace can go hand in hand.
9. Large families
Everyone knows someone who knows their mother-in-law's cousin's aunt's uncle! Coming from a small family with no really strong ties, this was something that jumped out at me.
The family is extremely important to many Albanians. It's the pillar, the basis of a life, and in fact, a lot of families live together (often one floor per “family”). You'll see houses with 3 or 4 storeys, all built in the same way and corresponding to one floor per brother/sister and their family.
I can't count the number of people with the same name as my partner, because everyone in the region knows a member of their family, from the mayor to the policeman to the restaurant owner. Large families are commonplace there, and it's not uncommon to discover a 36th cousin from time to time! (I'll leave you to imagine the marriages...)
10. Camping car & wild nights
Conn contrast to France and its (many) regulations/obligations, Albania offers you incredible freedom to sleep under the stars or in your camper van.
It's easy to park your camper van or van. Of course, as everywhere else, remember to ask neighbors or locals if they agree to let you park.
Over the past 2 years, many French and Germans have been bringing their vehicles to Albania. Local rental companies are still rare, if not non-existent.
Please note that campsites are just starting to install wastewater tanks.
I hope you've enjoyed this article. I've chosen to paint a picture of the positive aspects of Albania, but also of the points that may be a little less so, to be completely transparent with you. I hesitated for a long time, but after all, that's what travel is all about. There are always positives and negatives, because every country is different, and in the end, it's all this that makes a trip so unique.
I can guarantee you that Albania is worth the detour. It's safe, the sun shines for over 300 days a year, and I've never met such friendly people in my life.
Mirë se vjen!
