Join me on an exhilarating adventure as I explore the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture of Albania. From the bustling streets of Tirana to the rugged wilderness of the countryside, every moment was filled with excitement and discovery.
Arrival and Unexpected Adventures: Arriving late in the evening, my journey began with a twist as I found myself in the wrong hotel, navigating through the maze of Tirana's streets.
So, picture this: I roll into town super late at night, only to realize I've stumbled into the wrong hotel. And to top it off, I'm stuck sharing a taxi with this other traveler probably British or something, who won't stop going on about her ex from the Philippines, like he's trying to get my attention or something. And the cherry on top? The taxi driver, acts all clueless about where he's going, leaving me feeling totally ripped off. Total scam vibes, right?
Note to self: travel safe and watch out for those sketchy taxi drivers and be careful even with other travelers.
Despite the initial confusion, the quaint charm of Vila Sanremo welcomed me with open arms, offering a cozy refuge amidst the bustling city. The charm hits me like a ton of bricks, but what really seals the deal is this old-timer, probably pushing 90, manning the front desk like a boss. I mean, he's there waiting for me, making sure I find my way even in the dead of night. Talk about dedication!
Daylight breaks, and I'm ready to uncover Tirana's secrets.
From checking out ancient spots like the Fortress of Justinian to diving into the lively city center, Tirana's got this cool mix of old-school vibes and modern zest.
Hiking Adventures Venturing beyond the city limits: I hit the trails, taking on the rugged terrain of the Cave of Pellumbas and soaking in the epic views at the Canyons of Erzen River. Plus, stumbling upon Petrala Castle was like stepping back in time. As I explored the ancient ruins of Petrala Castle, I couldn't help but marvel at the rich history that permeates every corner of this enchanting land.
Cultural immersion was next on the agenda. Meeting up with other travelers and Couchsurfing hosts, I dove headfirst into Albanian cuisine and soaked up the vibes in the city square. I had the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers and Couchsurfing hosts. From sampling traditional Albanian cuisine to soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city square, every moment was a testament to the warmth and hospitality of the Albanian people. The people here? So warm and welcoming. Fast forward to hanging with a local pal, we're chilling in the square, knocking back drinks, and next thing you know, it's 2 am and these teenagers are still at it, sandboarding like it's midday! Albania, man, it never sleeps!
And, of course, I couldn't leave without checking out those iconic bunkers that pepper Albania's landscape. Walking through them was like getting a crash course in Albania's history and the resilience of its people.
Exploring the Bunkers No trip to Albania would be complete without a visit to the iconic bunkers that dot the landscape. As I wandered through these stark reminders of Albania's tumultuous past, I couldn't help but reflect on the resilience of its people and the indomitable spirit that defines this remarkable country.
Interesting fact about its bunkers: Albania's bunkers, numbering around 173,000, were constructed during the leadership of Enver Hoxha, with an astounding ratio of one bunker for every four citizens. These bunkers were strategically positioned across the country, even in urban areas, forests, and mountains, reflecting Hoxha's paranoia of invasion. Despite their intended purpose, they were never used in combat, making them a unique and curious relic of Albania's communist past.
In conclusion, Albania blew me away. From Tirana's busy streets to the wild countryside, it's a place that'll stick with me forever. As I said goodbye, I knew this adventure had left its mark on me, ready to carry its spirit wherever my travels take me next.
Albania captured my heart in ways I never thought possible.
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I'm a Wanderlust Artist, Dubai Caricature Artist, Fashion Illustrator, Web Developer, Graphic Artist, Painter and Live Art Stage Performer. Combining my love for art with my passion for travel. I love exploring new places, meeting new people, and discovering the beauty of the world. Follow my blog to stay up to date with my latest adventures.
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