Europe has no shortage of fantastic destinations to choose from. The continent pretty much has a place to suit every taste. The vibe of Berlin is completely different from what you'll find on the Mediterranean coast. There's history, culture, great food, and more around basically every corner. Yet, there are a few countries that tend to get overlooked.
One of those countries is Albania. In post-pandemic years, seasoned travelers have been singing the praises of this Balkan nation. At the same time, tourists looking for a more polished travel experience similar to what you might find in Greece, France, or Italy might find themselves more than a little shocked. As such, putting Albania on your bucket list isn't as simple as it seems.
The cons of traveling in Albania
While Albania has come a long way in recent years, it simply isn't as developed as its European neighbors and counterparts. Visitors will see this in everything, from the roads to mass transit to the medical system. Health care is inconsistent, sparse, and can be expensive. Before planning a trip, make sure you have comprehensive insurance that covers basically any eventuality.
Violent crime involving tourists is a rarity, though pickpocketing and car break-ins are regular occurrences. Just like any other trip, keep an eye on your valuables. There is a level of political instability to be aware of, as well. Issues with free press, government corruption, and more remain prevalent, and can lead to predominantly non-violent protests in the capital.
And for the love of Anthony Bourdain, please do not take pictures of the military in any capacity. That is illegal and will get you in a whole mess of trouble. Drug use is illegal, as well, and is accompanied by heavy fines and jail time. Being in an LGBT+ relationship is legal in Albania, which some people might find surprising, though being openly gay is still culturally frowned upon, particularly in rural regions.
The pros of traveling in Albania
Oddly enough, Albania's lack of development in certain areas plays in its favor as a travel destination. It's not filled with tourists or resorts, meaning there is a more authentic experience to be found across the country. On top of that, it has a rich history and culture thanks to centuries of influence from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires.
It's also hard to overstate how beautiful Albania is. There are a wide range of landscapes there, ranging from the Adriatic Coast all the way to the Albanian Alps. Keep in mind that weather can switch quickly and drastically, but that doesn't change the almost mind boggling natural beauty to be found in the country. Even better, the vast majority of it is unspoiled by overdevelopment.
Another great reason to travel here is the food. It is a gastronomical paradise, with heavy influences from both Balkan and Mediterranean cuisines. Plus, being right on the Adriatic Sea means that fresh seafood plays a big part in Albanian cooking. You also can't ignore the fact that Albania is, overall, one of the most budget friendly destinations in all of Europe.
The verdict
Albania is a tourist destination on the rise with food, culture, history, and abundant natural beauty to please almost any taste. At the same time, this might not be the best spot for more casual tourists looking for that classic European experience. As the country continues to develop, that will change. For now, Albania may be best left for more seasoned travelers.