Four Unique Travel Destinations for 2023 By Sarah Ridgway
Enjoy the Up-and-Coming Albanian Riviera Albania has emerged as a word-of-mouth destination over recent years, and with a flight time to its capital of fewer than three hours, there are no excuses not to check it out. For many, Albania is not a country people know much about or can locate easily on a map, and this is due to the country living under dictator Enver Hoxha for 44 years. Albania was isolated from the rest of the world, and external travel, religion, and owning private property was banned. People who didn’t follow the strict rules were placed in prison camps. The state controlled all media and information, leaving some people unaware events, such as the fall of the Berlin Wall, had taken place. The communist regime’s demise began in December 1990 with student protests in Tirana, where the statue of Enver Hoxha was pulled to the ground. The country finally opened, allowing its citizens to travel abroad. In 1992, 47 years of communist rule ceased, but its transition from communism to democracy stunted its economic growth. Despite the challenges, visitors can expect a warm welcome, as Albania is regarded as one of the friendliest countries to visit. Tourism is developing, and the country has lots to offer, with stunning mountains, lakes, archaeological sites, 66
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and the vibrant capital city of Tirana. The main attraction to the country is the beaches, and the Albanian Riviera has some of the best beaches in Europe at a fraction of the price of neighbouring Greece. The turquoise shoreline stretches from Vlorë and Palasë in the north to Sarandë, with Ksamil in the south. Tourists can swim in crystal clear blue waters and eat delicious local food accompanied by traditional live music.
Getting there There are direct flights from London and Liverpool to Tirana. It is around a five-hour journey from Tirana to Sarandë by bus or car. A ferry operates from the Greek island of Corfu and gets to Sarandë in under an hour.
Eating out Albanian food is delicious and at very affordable prices in restaurants. Byrek is a Balkan staple and is a filo pastry containing meat, cheese, or spinach and local beers start at £1 a pint!
Accommodation There is a huge choice of places to stay, from camping to apartments, guesthouses, and all-inclusive hotels to suit all budgets. www.lancmag.com
