There are many things to get used to in Albania. For starters, if you nod your head and say ‘jo’ (pronouced ‘yo’) you are saying no, if you shake you head and say ‘po’ you are responding in the affirmative. Have a go, it is harder than you think to respond how you intend.
Despite the odd few challenges, here is why Albania convinced me to stay for almost a month: the food is fresh, cheap and delicious; there are regular fountains along most of the roads brimming with fresh ice-cold water from the mountains; the Classical archaeological sites, Byzantine churches, Ottoman fortresses and world war memorabilia is, in most places, yet to be ‘red tapped’ allowing you to explore in a way that few other countries allow; the lakes and rivers are picturesque and great for swimming; the country has a Mediterranean coastline with some glorious beaches; and last but not least the people are splendid: kind, open-minded, with a generally high level of English and accompanied by some fantastic dry humour.
Your sister Helen has just told me about your fascinating site. I was in Albania in 1984, and then again in May/June 2016. I am writing a book about our trip to Albania in 2016, comparing what we saw then with what I saw back in 1984. Please do be in touch.
Your sister Helen has just told me about your fascinating site. I was in Albania in 1984, and then again in May/June 2016. I am writing a book about our trip to Albania in 2016, comparing what we saw then with what I saw back in 1984. Please do be in touch.
Adam Yamey, London (UK)