Discover the charm of Durres and the secrets of Albanian cognac – an unforgettable journey!
Around 8:30 AM, the coach picks up participants from their hotels. This is how the tour begins, combining a visit to Durres with a trip to a unique cognac factory. After a short journey, we arrive in the city center. The coach stops at the port, and from there, we set off on a walking tour of Durres' most important attractions.
Albanian art of coffee ground reading – magic hidden in a coffee cup
Tasseography is a mysterious practice of predicting the future based on shapes formed by grounds left after drinking coffee or tea. Though it may seem exotic to modern people, its origins date back to ancient China. From there it traveled to Europe, where it became known only in the 17th century. Dutch merchants were the first to bring tea to European tables, opening the way for this extraordinary form of divination.
Vlora (Vlorë) – the heart of southern Albania on two seas
Vlora, known in Albanian as Vlorë, is the third largest city in Albania and one of the most important resorts on the southern coast. It is located on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, precisely where these two bodies of water meet – in the picturesque Vlora Bay, sheltered from the west by the Karaburun peninsula.
Gjakmarrja – Blood Vengeance in Albania, Its Echo Still Heard Today
Although blood vengeance - known as Gjakmarrja - is no longer practiced in modern Albania and is legally forbidden, this dramatic custom from medieval times still fascinates and terrifies. It's a part of cultural history that shows how strongly Albanians were connected to honor, family, and justice based on customary law.
Pogradec and Lake Ohrid – The Green Pearl of Albania You Must See
Pogradec is a picturesque city located in Albania, right on the border with North Macedonia. It's mainly known for the beautiful Lake Ohrid, one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in the Balkans. The city stands out with its lush greenery, which is hard to find in other parts of Albania, especially in summer.
When to visit Albania? A practical guide to the seasons
When organizing a trip to Albania, it's worth considering your own expectations for spending time - whether you're planning sunny relaxation by the sea, hiking in the mountains, or active sightseeing of cities and monuments. Each season in this country offers different weather conditions, so a conscious choice of dates allows you to make the most of your holiday opportunities.
Getting Around Albania: A Practical Guide
Traveling in Albania might seem challenging, but in reality, it's a fascinating experience. With a bit of an open mind, the country will reward you with amazing landscapes, hospitality, and unexpected adventures. Here's how to best get around Albania, using public transport, taxis, and hitchhiking.
Espresso lifestyle in Albania – life over a cup of coffee
Durres is a coastal city in Albania where daily life moves at a completely different pace than in countries like Poland. There's no room for the rat race or constant rushing here. Residents live peacefully, Mediterranean-style, and without unnecessary stress. Time seems to flow more slowly, and people value moments more than clocks.
Albanian Language – The Mysterious and Melodic Language of the Balkans
Where is Albanian spoken? Although Albanian is mainly associated with Albania, it is spoken by many more people. In total, about 6 […]
Olive oil in Albania – the gold of Mediterranean cuisine
In Albania, olive trees are an integral part of the landscape – you can find them almost everywhere. The local olive oil […]
Albania – Is it really a Muslim country?
When I was planning my first trip to Albania in 2015, I encountered warnings from my family. They were concerned about my safety, convinced that Albania, as a Muslim country, could be dangerous. At that time, my knowledge about this country was minimal, so I decided to explore the topic. I began intensive reading about its history and spoke with many Albanians to better understand their culture and worldview.
