This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
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Alicia: My husband and I have explored a wide array of destinations, from the vibrant landscapes of Central and South America to the majestic terrains of parts of Africa, Europe, and the enchanting realms of Southeast and East Asia. Yet, if you were to ask us about our most cherished destination, it would undoubtedly be Albania—a hidden gem nestled in the Balkans that has captivated our hearts.
Albania is nothing short of breathtaking. It maintains an authenticity that feels refreshingly free from the grip of mass tourism, especially when compared to other European hotspots like Barcelona, Paris, London, and Rome. The culinary offerings here are among our favorites anywhere; every meal feels like a warm embrace, steeped in local culture, and the locals’ hospitality makes you feel as if you’re part of their extended family.
However, Albania is not without its imperfections. The country is still in the process of recovering from the lengthy shadows cast by its Communist past, which ended in the early 1990s. Even now, remnants of that era linger in the form of bunkers scattered throughout urban areas. Additionally, a devastating earthquake near Tirana, the capital, in 2019 wrought significant damage, leaving many structures in need of repair. Yet, therein lies a unique charm—every visit feels like a new adventure, a fresh page waiting to be turned.
Albania’s Untamed Beauty and Inviting Climate
Alicia: Geographically, Albania is positioned just across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, sharing borders with Greece and Montenegro. It’s a compact nation; in fact, you could easily drive across its entirety in a week or two.
The climate is typically Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers. While inland temperatures can soar, the coastal areas offer a more comfortable, sea-breeze-kissed environment, making it a delightful getaway year-round.
The jewel of Albania is its Albanian Riviera—a stretch of coastline along the Ionian Sea that boasts crystal-clear waters, perfect for sun-soaking and swimming. Theth National Park, which we had the privilege of driving through in autumn, looked almost like a scene from a glossy magazine, with its vibrant foliage and stunning vistas.
The country’s majestic mountains, including the Albanian Alps, Korab Mountains, and Tomorr Mountains, beckon nature enthusiasts. While there aren’t any ski resorts, the mountains do receive snowfall and are ideal for hiking and exploration.
Every jaunt into Albania’s natural splendor feels like an awakening—a revelation of beauty that is often overlooked by the rest of the world. It makes you ponder: How often do we miss the remarkable when we opt for the popular?
A Cost of Living That Will Make You Smile
Alicia: After three years of full-time travel living out of suitcases, we decided to settle in Tirana, a city that has already felt like home since we moved here in February 2023. Our apartment is spacious and modern—a fully furnished 740-square-foot, one-bedroom unit in a new complex—costing us merely 450 euros (around $520) per month. Utilities, including internet, water, and electricity, add another 100 euros ($115) to our monthly expenses.
When I reflect on our previous life in California, it seems surreal. Just a few years ago, we resided in San Diego, where a similarly-sized apartment was priced at $1,250—well beyond our current affordable reality. The value for money here is astounding.
Dining out doesn’t break the bank, either; traditional Albanian cuisine is superbly affordable. Picture this: five or six shared dishes served family-style, paired with a liter of local wine or a few beers for rarely more than $50. It feels like a celebration every time we dine out!
Public transportation is efficient and reasonably priced in Tirana. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the increasing number of electric taxis, which have emerged as the primary mode of ride-sharing in the city. Thanks to the recent addition of Tirana to Google Maps, navigating the city has become a hassle-free experience. A bus ride costs only 40 cents, while shuttles to nearby towns—a trip to the port city of Durrës, for example—cost around $10.
The Joy of Accessibility
Alicia: Our neighborhood is remarkably walkable, with well-maintained bike lanes and sidewalks stretching throughout. Our day-to-day errands can be accomplished on foot, a welcome change for us after the sprawling expanse of San Diego. We have a grocery store just a stone’s throw away, a bakery offering fresh bread for about $1, and a local farmers’ market for fresh produce, all within a short walking distance.
Admittedly, Albania’s nightlife might not be its strongest suit, but this aligns with our personal preferences. Instead, we’ve discovered an enriching culture of “third spaces”—shared communal areas where neighbors gather, particularly around sunset. Here, families spend time together, indulging in an evening tradition known as “xhiro,” where socializing fills the open air with laughter and camaraderie.
Cafés play a vital role in our daily lives—often bustling with chatter as friends enjoy espressos and savor the moment without any rush. There’s something profoundly beautiful about taking the time to savor life, don’t you think?
Pros and Cons in Balance
Nathan: The financial benefits we reap in Albania have dramatically influenced our lifestyle. The money saved on living costs enables us to invest in travel and grow our travel business—something we couldn’t have realistically achieved back in the U.S.
Still, it’s important to acknowledge the trade-offs. The convenience of grocery shopping, for instance, requires us to frequent various stores for different needs, which can sometimes feel cumbersome. Additionally, shipping can be a challenge here—without reliable addresses, receiving packages can turn into a guessing game.
Yet, despite these nuances, the advantages of living in Albania far outweigh its inconveniences. The freedom offered by Albania’s visa policy is a considerable plus—granting U.S. citizens a generous 365-day visa upon arrival. Furthermore, our Schengen visa resets each time we exit the country, allowing us to explore Europe without constraint.
Alicia: The local community has proven incredibly welcoming, providing genuine assistance as we navigate our new life. At the end of the day, our aspiration is to someday purchase a home in Italy, but for now—Albania has become a very special chapter in our journey, filled with delightful surprises and heartfelt connections.
So, what does your heart desire? Is it comfort, adventure, or perhaps a blend of both? As we ponder these questions, one thing remains certain: life in Albania is a beautiful reminder of the treasures found in the most unexpected places.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
