Less-favored Country Enthralls Travel Enthusiasts, Outshining Italy and Greece, Claim Experts
Alicia and Nathan's Favorite Adventure: Moving to Albania
Alicia Walter and Nathan Stark have traversed 47 nations across the globe, but none quite sparked their hearts like Albania. This less-traveled European gem is their top pick.
The couple was drawn to Albania's charming culture, pristine landscapes, and inexpensive lifestyle - so much so, they decided to plant their roots there.
Here's a peek into their interview, where they spill the beans on their new digs in Tirana, Albania, and the lifestyle changes that came with it.
Alicia: We've explored Central and South America, Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia, and East Asia. But Albania stole our hearts. It's a lesser-known Balkan nation that's surprisingly untouched by mass tourism compared to popular spots like Barcelona, Paris, or London. The cuisine is delicious, and locals treated us like family.
Yet, the country isn't without drawbacks. Transitioning from communism in the 1990s, Albania continues to develop, leaving scattered remnants of past eras. A major earthquake near Tirana in 2019 also caused significant damage. But these nuances give the country a unique charm. Every visit feels like discovering a hidden gem.
Albania's Breathtaking Nature and Ideal Climate
Size matter not, Look you must add more of thought, not of measuring. - Yoda
Yoda might've been onto something with that quote; it certainly rings true for Albania. The country, roughly the size of Portugal, offers a wealth of experiences packed into a compact space. A coastline, mountains, and national parks make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Alicia: Albania stretches along the Adriatic Sea, opposite Italy, and shares borders with Greece and Montenegro. The country's climate is Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers inland. But the coast boasts a more pleasant climate, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers.
The Albanian Riviera, a stunning stretch along the Ionian Sea, is a highlight with its turquoise waters. Theth National Park is another stunner - it's so picturesque, it seems like it belongs in a magazine.
Albania's mountains, including the Albanian Alps, the Korab Mountains, and the Tomorr Mountains, offer tremendous hiking opportunities. While there are no ski resorts, the snow-capped peaks are a sight to behold.
Outdoor lovers will find Albania's natural beauty mesmerizing – it's a genuine treat to explore the countryside, away from the city centers.
Architecture buffs will marvel at the diverse styles Albania offers. Cities like Berat, known as the City of 1000 Windows, boast well-preserved Ottoman architecture with aged white stone houses, dark tile roofs, and wooden windows. In contrast, Tirana's architecture is a mix of various styles, with remnants of communist-era buildings and new, modern settlements.
Albania's Affordable Lifestyle
Alicia: We swapped the American dream for an Albanian reality in 2023. Our new home is a brand-new apartment in Tirana, with a one-bedroom and a bath, spanning 70 square meters. Rent comes in at a cool 450 euros per month, utilities adding an additional 100 euros.
Our old San Diego apartment, a measly 60 square meters with one bedroom and one bath, cost $1,250 per month – the cheapest option we could find. Living in Albania is a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively.
Food in Tirana can be a little pricier for international options, but traditional Albanian meals are a steal. For five or six hearty dishes, a liter of wine, and a few beers, you're looking at roughly 45 euros. Public transit, with buses costing only 40 cents per ride and electric taxis being the main mode of transport, is also affordable.
Life's Simple Pleasures in Albania
Alicia: Tirana is amazingly pedestrian-friendly, with bike lanes, sidewalks, and easy access to daily essentials. We're fortunate to have a grocery store, bakery, fruit stand, and even an English bookshop nearby.
Nights aren't exactly bustling, but Albania's concept of "third spaces" is a charming alternative. These are shared green areas in apartment complexes where everyone gathers, especially at sunset. It's a time for children to play, adults to chat, and neighbors to catch up.
Cafes, a vital part of Albanian culture, are popular gathering spots where people relax for hours, sipping espressos and taking in the ambiance.
Living in Albania: Pros and Cons
Nathan: The savings we've made on food and living expenses in Albania have been a game-changer for us. We've invested more in our travel business and have had the opportunity to travel more extensively.
There are downsides, of course. Shops can be scattered, with different stores for various items, and deliveries can be a challenge. But the advantages, like affordable living and an exceptional quality of life, far outweigh the drawbacks.
Albania's visa policy is another plus – US citizens are granted a one-year visa upon arrival, and Schengen visa days are reset upon leaving Albania, giving us more time to explore the EU.
Alicia: The locals have been incredibly helpful in helping us settle in. In the end, our dream is to buy a house in Italy, but for now, we're happy as clams in Albania.
So, if you're looking for an affordable European adventure, Albania might just be the hidden gem you've been searching for. Dig in, and discover a world that's both fascinating and friendly.
Dive deeper into the cost of living comparison between Tirana, Albania, and San Diego, CA, through our enrichment insights.
- Alicia: "What about the climate in Albania, Nathan? It's a fascinating aspect that drew us to the country."
- Nathan: "The country's climate is Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers inland. But the coast boasts a more pleasant climate, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers."
- Alicia: "Despite the drawbacks like scattered remnants of past eras and the impact of the 2019 earthquake, we still find the unique charm of Albania captivating, much like a hidden gem."
- Alicia: "For those interested in home-and-garden inspiration, our new apartment in Tirana spans 70 square meters, renting for only 450 euros per month, making the 'American dream' feel like a distant memory."
