Top 10 Things to See and Do in Sarand, Albania - Leave Your Mark On If they have a problem with each other( which happens sometime) they solve their problems without involving other people, let alone tourists. There are also loads of great cafes along the embankment. This post contains affiliate links. That having been said, I have been out to many of the bars in Tirana by myself at night and never felt unsafe. You can take a quick raft across the river to another castle. We met lots of tourists and foreign travelers especially in Saranda, the city that borders Greece. Albania. I know him well enough to have no reason to doubt the sincerity of his threats and mal-intent, and this very intelligent young man was obviously raised in an environment where violence and criminality are acceptable. I have been in Albania for the high-season and the low-season when I am literally the only tourist in Saranda. Things have changed drastically in the last 30 years in Albania. Best time to go to Saranda Average weather of Saranda, Albania. I still expect the Albanian to prove me that I'm wrong but I don't think that this will happen in this life. Of course, there are bad people in Albania, but there are also bad people everywhere around the world. This includes Corfu which can be seen from Saranda embankment and accessed easily by ferry. Opening hours: 24 hours (daily) Price: Free. Duhet shkruar Shqiptar dhe jo Shqipetar. The main source of income is tourism and immigration. The US travel advisory has highlighted the southern town of Lazarat with increased risk of crime. Another reason Saranda is worth visiting is that there are so many amazing seafood restaurants along the beach. 10 things I wish I knew before going to Albania - Pickvisa Best time to go to Saranda Average weather of Saranda, Albania However, I came back with a vengeance the following year. Site Powered by Pix & Hue. Drop a comment in the box, wed love to hear from you! And that is simply not accurate! A few favorites of mine are right next to each other, being Demi Beach, City Lounge, and Orange Cocktail Bar. Here are some basics: pershendetje (hello), faleminderit (thank you), mir (everything is fine), naten e mir (good night), mirupafshim (goodbye). Get there 30-45 minutes before your ferry leaves. This was due to the risk of car jacking, robbery or even worse being murdered. Visit the City of Gjirokastra. All of Albania is extremely safe. There are plenty of great places to eat and drink in Saranda. The hostel itself is very basic, but the owners are very friendly and they have a very social vibe. For the latest travel warnings and alerts around the world, read about lockdowns and border restrictions. Travelers often stand out, and presented in a particular location or circumstance may even invite misadventure when immediate surroundings and appearance put them at a disadvantage. Albania is very safe for tourists i can assure you that .it has very cheap prices for hotels and good restaurants .the south is amazing especially Dhermiu and Jala i would compare it with french riviera but awayy more cheaper.the north of Albania its a little bit dangerous for tourists alone they should go in grups and thats fine.the north is paradise .you will Love also Tropoja ,Theth in Shkodra (its a must if you are visiting north of albania) and valbona valley.the capital city Tirana is the best city for night life in EU! Adding to the lawlessness of the north, there are unexploded landmines from wars and conflicts in the region. It is slightly easier to get to from Tirana and has a great party vibe in the summer. 26 Best Things to do in Saranda, Albania - Home - Anita Hendrieka Im pleased to report that Albanians are charming, friendly, helpful and incredibly welcoming. Roads were run down and so many in road worthy cars. If you planning to move there, you better contact someone who can accompany you and show the town around and visit some really good villages around (mostly for showing the villages around, cos the town is small and you can visit yourself). However, I didnt find it anything too special. Mainstream media choose to broadcast the negatives and we, people, as part of our human nature tend to look at a nation based on a single news that we stumpled upon. Albania has not been considered dangerous for many years now. Address: Bora Bora Street, Ksamil, Saranda 9706, Albania. However, there is still plenty to offer those looking for a bit of luxury. This is one of the best Albania hidden gems. Numbers never lie. Ready for another adventure? Thanks to people like you that break these stereotypes! As a New Zealand native, I had to ask myself a few questions before I committed to moving to a new country. You managed to hit the nail upon the top as well as defined out the whole thing without having side-effects , people could take a signal. Saranda Butrinti Road. The Best Time to Visit Sarande, Albania for Weather, Safety, & Tourism Poverty everywhere, dirty and dodgy people. It's very close to the Greek border, in fact, a ferry to the Greek island Corfu is only a 30-minute trip! We do our best for guests and i hope many more people see Albania for what it is,beautiful and safe. This is such a helpful post, as it is somewhere Id like to explore but like many have worried about my safety. I'm Albanian and although it can be dangerous it's just a lil rough around the edges ya kno once u go it's super fun and awesome and I'm so glad to be apart of such an uniquely amazing country kuq e zi???? We love to travel and share our Balkan experiences to assist and inspire. If you fear the ATM may have been tampered with, wait to find another secure ATM that is attached to a bank, and use it during open hours to get help from staff if you require assistance. This site contains affiliate links for products and services we recommend. Sarand (Albanian: [saand]; definite Albanian form: Saranda; Greek: , romanized: gioi Sarnta) is a city in the Republic of Albania and seat of Sarand Municipality. Your favorite justification appeared to be on the internet the simplest thing to be aware of. However, if you dont fancy spending too long here, we would recommend these alternatives in the Albanian Riviera. Like all Balkan languages, it is certainly not an easy language for English speakers. If you're looking for a destination that offers beautiful scenery, a rich history, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Albania Saranda is definitely worth considering. they are the most loyal/protective people ive ever met. Parking - Saranda Forum - Tripadvisor So Im here to talk about if Albania is a safe country to visit or not. There is also a great restaurant to try out. Is Saranda worth visiting? As the ferry from Corfu pulled into the port of Saranda, I started to wonder why I had been in such a rush to leave Greece and its lush landscapes, sparkling waters, and charming cities. The embankment, or promenade, is full of restaurants, coffee shops and bars. There is no case of harming the tourists, or steal or lie. Get access to thousands of airport lounges with ONE discounted pass. Saranda is a great base for exploring Albania's beaches. I also met the kindest people in the world. From ruins of the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and other empires, Butrint was truly a mind blowing experience. True enough that people easily jump into the stereotypes and prejudices and the world is safer than how it used to be! By telling us your country of residence we are able to provide you with the most relevant travel insurance information. He was kind and sweet. Saranda is a good start to an Albanian road trip along the Albanian Riviera. The view from the castle was stunning. Its very touristic in the summer,I recommend september ,its still hot and less people. Sitting on the hilltop there are amazing views over Saranda, the valley and the Ksamil Islands. Ksamil has several smaller beaches, many of which are owned by bars or restaurants, so its often necessary to pay for a sun lounger. All Rights Reserved | As a blonde-haired fair-skinned traveller, I do often get looks of curiosity and amazement on why I picked Albania. He used to get me to drop him at the shop at the corner of his street in his own words ( to get his protection for the weekend lol ) to cut a long story short he got removed from the uk ( not deported the difference being he was asked if he wanted to return to work ) he was found to be having an affair whilst married to his bungalow ( she said she didn't have much up top ie brains) well she was brainy enough to find him out and have him lifted while his visa ran out.expired due to telling immigration he was a liarhe has since returned to work which is unbelievable of the uk to let him back here, fascinating story and one I KNOW has been the case in so many of these foreign romances. Re: Is Albania a safe place to visit? Albania is an up-and-coming travel destination, having only opened to travelers relatively recently. I have gone all over the city as a solo female traveller and never worried for my safety. So be careful until you are positive what type you have in your life. How do locals feel about Albania safety for tourists? While I found Albania to be an overall safe destination, accidents can happen anywhere and I urge you to buy travel insurance before you go. Its true Albania don't have crime reputation on own county cause most of them are abroad criminals are notorious on the UK, So here you have the people that hate Albanians and the one who loves them Safety in Albania is not a concern at all for tourists or locals. Buses are the main form of transportation in Albania. I'm deeply disturbed that this website allows such racist, hateful and inappropriate public comments about Albanians such are all dodgy wankers. Take the Ferry to Corfu 8. Final note:Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. While it was relatively underwhelming compared to the other castles I visited in Albania, the view is quite stunning from up here. muggings and card theft happen anywhere, ive been mugged in las vegas nevada twice and spent a month alone in pakistan feeling safer than there. Butrint is a place Id love to explore as Im a big fan of anywhere with a lot of history, but Ksamil Beach looks just beautiful. The Best Things to See and Do in Saranda - Read Travel Guides & Book I am welsh and met a fab group of Albanian men recently and honestly they are the nicest men Ive ever spoken too ! I can't speak for albanians outside the albanian border, but as a born child of main land albania, there is nothing terrible about my people. Was a happy day the day we got to the Greek border! Sarand Destination Guide: Everything You Need to Know (2023) All of this was situated on a small island-ish thing surrounded by gorgeous blue waters and rolling hills. the kids usually learned the trade and joined or took over the business later. I useSafetyWingto keep me covered throughout my travels. Okay, on to the useful stuff. As one of the most popular cities to visit in Albania, many potential visitors ask me: is Ksamil safe? On the other hand, I am really happy you are enjoying your stay there and that you are happy and by promoting this post, I hope the perspectives we have about Albania to change soon. On his turf. View this post on Instagram. from. Let me tell all of you something. These ad hoc magazines present a significant danger from explosion and are only slowly being controlled and dealt with appropriately. The Backpackers Travel Guide To Saranda, Albania, View thepartyingtravelers profile on Facebook, View thepartyingtravelers profile on Instagram. Is Albania a safe place to visit? - Tirana Forum - Tripadvisor Whether in built up areas or out of the way spots, youll feel safe living here. The main attraction within Saranda is its long strip of beach, bars, and a restaurants. P.s. Most locals are friendly, welcoming and willing to help. But first impressions arent everything. How Easy Is It To Get Cocaine in Colombia? I too heard all the negative stereotypical comments about Albania, mostly from people whod never been there. There are so many unexpected things to do in Southern Albania. The outdoor atmosphere right by the sea provides an amazing vibe for dancing the night away. But is Saranda worth visiting? I gave him all my heart. Up until the early 19th Century, Albania was under Ottoman rule and Saranda was nothing more than a tiny fishing port, . The Albanian people take hospitality to another level, and for that, Ill gladly overlook any shortcomings Albania might have on the outside. In fact, its been the complete opposite. The Beginners Guide to Saranda, Albania - Alex Getting Lost - A Travel Still wondering is it safe to travel in Albania on your own? . Ive been in Germany, France, Italy ecc and everywhere i met the worse people in theworld but this means nothing to me. Albania is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination. I recommend either SafetyWing or World Nomads. Have you visited Saranda or anywhere else in Albania? 3. We didn't choose our location (resort) yet, but we are pretty sure we want to visit Corfu from Sarande. Is Albania a safe country? The short answer, no. But fortunately I can confidently say that it is not dangerous! While I didnt love Saranda itself, it did serve as a great home base for exploring the attractions in the southernmost parts of Albania. Why not take a look at these Incredible Day Trips from Saranda? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. There is nothing negative about this. And hey, if this post helps you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going bybuying me a beer! Things to Do in Saranda Popular things to do Day Trips Cultural Tours Beaches Historical Tours Nature and Wildlife Tours Private Sightseeing Tours Transfers & Ground Transport Top Picks Luxury & Special Occasions Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours Sporting Events Water Sports Food, Wine & Nightlife Ways to tour Saranda There are many amazing things to do in Saranda (also called Sarande in Albania), such as lots of historical sites and eating all the delicious seafood dishes that you can find in Albania. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds and the higher prices (still cheap by western standards) try visiting off season. They are family oriented and very hard working. One of Satan's own. I have been there multiple times and have not had any issues at all .. Is this true? And yes we will always argue about who will pay for the coffee lol . While Sarande has the better nightlife, Ksamil had a much better vibe during the day. albanians - and many other countries - only want you to see their beautiful home and enjoy it. Then after we did the south with amazing views and beaches. He said that his step-father (a known gangster in NYC), would harm me and my family if I reported his behavior to anyone. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive the 55km from Saranda to Gjirokaster. Summers in Saranda are hot so this is a great place to stop for a break. Tourism in Albania has been flourishing since the end of communism in the early 1990s. Table of Contents 1. 15 Best Things To Do In Saranda, Albania - Globe Migrant I can only imagine what its like to try to pay for your coffee over and over again, hehehe. Copyright [2020] [www.thebalkansandbeyond.com]. Respect. As a backpacker, its a good place to get your feet set in Albania. Saranda (or Sarand in Albanian) is an ancient Port city on the Albanian Riviera. Just a short trip from Saranda lies the small town of Ksamil with its serene islands, clear green waters and bright white, sandy beaches. Saranda is based on the Ionian Sea Gulf which is a bay within the Mediterranean Sea. The only argument I have had with Albanians is when I try to pay for my coffee but they will never let me! Motorbikes and Scooters in Thailand: What Are the Rules. I am albanian myself and i cant expain why we have such a bad reputation! your site is very helpful. 3. from $318 per adult. I can see an Albanian from hundreds of meters away by how is walking and looking around. This ancient city is a popular holiday destination in Albania, thanks to its 300 sunny days per year Take a Stroll Down the Saranda Embankment 2. 5. from $94 per adult. Is Albania safe for travel? Never had one problem. Glad to hear that youre having such a nice time and that you feel safe there. On my first visit to Albania, I did a poor job of experiencing Sarandas nightlife. The coastal town of Vlora is also a great option while visiting the Albanian Riviera. The scenery is stunning, the food is delicious, and its very cheap compared to most of Europe. I so hate the stereotypes and the way people seem to spread lies without even realizing how much they can hurt a country with those! I have been told that the northern part towards Kosovo like Kukes is unsafe. Crime is rare, and most locals are hospitable and welcoming to travelers. All are rude, messy and treat everyone with superiority. At the forefront of Albanias tourism is the sparkling Albanian Riviera, with one of the biggest names being Saranda, or Sarand in the Albanian language. The short answer, no. During the off season it is a lot more chilled but the weather is pretty mild all year. Did you know that Albania is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe? Tell me below if you would love to come to Albania or if you are considering visiting next summer! ???????????????????? Im from Kukes, im born and grown up there. Albanian, as a whole, is not as safe as, for e.g., the whole of UK. Aside from beaches, there are a couple of things that can fill your time in Saranda. However, the buses here are quite random. Is Albania a safe place for me to visit? Its the genuine hospitality given to travelers by the Albanian people. YES! And as for mixing of other races, it is inevitable in a biological perspective. The film Taken has done a considerable damage to Albanias reputation, despite the fact that it was played in Paris. Of course, that might just be my own personal bias after living here for so long! I have been out by myself at all times of the day and night and never been met with anything but kindness from Albanians. In our opinion, yes, absolutely Saranda is worth visiting! Travel Insight by Theme Palace | Privacy Policy. I met an Albanian guy who was my life saver. Located in the South of the country, this area benefits from a Mediterranean climate and a myriad of spectacular beaches. Only if you try and stop them from paying for your coffee! I could link to a bus schedule or whatever, but the thing is, Albania operates on its own time. But, it is significantly less common in Tirana than other European capital cities. Buy Me A Beer! Most stuff here is just wrong. Personally, I would love to spend some time in Albania, and I hope that I will have the opportunity to do so. For a better idea of where is Sarande, you can find a Google map here. Don't do it. If youre traveling from Greece, your best bet is to catch a ferry from Corfu. You know what they say, the Internet sometimes lies. If you don't like traveling on the beaten track, change your plans and go somewhere else. Albanians are the native people of Europe and they have not been given the respect they deserve, but instead their land has been stripped from them and their people suppressed outside the borders of main land albania. Although after communism the production is very little. PRACTICAL INFO >>Download The Free Albania Preparation Guide About Saranda History Getting There Airport Transfers Ferry Saranda-Corfu Getting Around Eat & Drink Its easy to see why with its incredible beaches, dramatic mountains and quaint villages. Albania seems to be misunderstood. Im not racist i respect every person who is good, no matter or he/she is from. One of the most popular summer locations in Albania is Ksamil Beach a beach lovers paradise! 19 Things To Do In Saranda, Albania Riviera - Balkans Travel Blog I traveled through Albania last summer with my daughter, two women roaming from Tirana to Vlore to Sarande to Himara, hiking through the Valbona valley, over the border into Kosovo, took a bus through Macedonia to Bulgaria. Incredible Locals Guide to Saranda 2023 - Home - Anita Hendrieka I am Albanian and live abroad and i miss my country so very much . Let them know when you're planning to return, and give them an idea on where you are going. you don't even know me. Enjoy Albania! Your article spoke the truth , brought tears into my eyes seeing someone appreciating the way we are as people,honest and welcoming . This summer we intend to visit Albanian Riviera. Poverty has been sharply decreasing since the 1997 catastrophe, and the countrys GDP has been steadily increasing as well. Again, dont get me wrong, probably my knowledge about Albania is similar to those you called out as Taken fans, but Albania is not known worldwide as the country with the most pickpockets, but rather for the mobsters as you call them. Its got everything you need from a big city, but unlike Tirana, its also on the coast. The Best Time to Visit Sarande, Albania for Weather, Safety, & Tourism | Champion Traveler The Best Time to Visit Sarande, Albania for Weather, Safety, & Tourism The best times to visit Sarande for ideal weather are April 9th to July 1st based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). My parents are looking to buy a house in Saranda! I feel completely comfortable and safe always. I'm afraid he will rob me and murder me. Back to a more modern Saranda, the embankment is the place to be. It's pretty safe to travel around Albania. However, just because not every Albanian in Tirana immediately welcomes you into their lives, doesnt make it dangerous! I packed up all my things and prepared to walk across town to the bus station in the sizzling heat. He started professing his love for me. It set the tone for just how little Albanians cared about any rules, and I was all for it.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thepartyingtraveler_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_0',120,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepartyingtraveler_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Oh, and before you go, make sure to have good travel insurance handy whenever youre out adventuring. So many places around the world are misunderstood. But since then Albania has been rebuilding. I enjoyed Saranda a lot more on my second visit, and I think a huge part of it was that tourism had exploded beyond pre-pandemic levels. I went on holiday to Albania multiple times, and I can say that when they find out you are a foreigner they knock up prices, that's why my mother, who is Albanian even tells me not to speak english when we are in an Albanian shop. With the several terror attacks anywhere in the world lately, its good to know that traveling to Albania is safe, even off season.. The internet is saturated with guides but when it comes to Albania there is hardly any information. j. I live in London and I meet A LOT of Eastern Europeans every fucking single day as I work in customer service and I NEVER meet an Albanian person to make me believe that Albanians are nice people, not even a single one. Hi! In high season, it . I have lived in Albania for over 4 years Have a lovely day. But aren't you biased yourself? To which I always answer a resounding yes! Most of these people unfortunately have emigrated for better opportunties which has held Albania back by leaving selfish people in office for many years, with no progress or hope for the country. War is also something Albania has been free from for many years. Related: Is Albania Safe for Solo Female Travellers? The Greek border is less than 50km (30 miles) to the south and the heel of Italys boot is less than 100km (60 miles) as the crow flies. My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'thepartyingtraveler_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',135,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepartyingtraveler_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); The Backpackers Crash Course Travel Guide to Albania, The Complete Guide to Albanias Valbona to Theth Hike. It cost 24 euros a night for something that would have cost five times as much in Greece, so I was all about it. Im 100% Albanian and damm very proud. 10 Best Things to Do in Saranda (Albania) - The Crazy Tourist Located in the South of the country, this area benefits from a Mediterranean climate and a myriad of spectacular beaches. Don't do gangs trip on them He went to his family using my money for the bus, and using my credit card on the way. We loved it so much were heading back for a three month stay with a view to possibly relocating there. From must-see sights and attractions to plan your perfect visit, this guide has everything you need to know about this beautiful coastal town. Must read before planning my next holiday plan. Is Albania Safe? The Truth About Safety in Albania - Home - Anita Hendrieka Visitors need to be very careful when using ATMs. I am so happy that finally someone said the truth for Albania! i grew up in alaska which has a fairly large albanian population. What's it Like to Travel in Albania? - Adventurous Kate I havent had one incident of feeling unsafe and I have not been in any trouble at all here. In terms of conflict against others, Albania has not been in any since WW2. The warm weather and party vibe makes it a perfect summer destination. For a modern-day traveller, often people rely on the internet to gather information about their next visit. Violent crime rarely affects visitors, unlike the questionable driving habits of many locals.