Visiting Albania now; from Tirana to Berat

The following article is written by Anna Saville, a blogger on Suite 101.com, who travels through 3 continents and writes about her favorite places in the world.

Situated in Eastern Europe, Albania is often ignored as a tourist destination but its accessibility from any European country makes it an interesting, affordable choice.

Little known, largely ignored and curious to the individual travelling around the countries it borders, the small European nation of Albania is nestled in between the greenery of Macedonia and Serbia, sharing the glorious Ionian coast with its neighbour Greece.

From being shut off from the rest of the world, through many trials and tribulations, a country often stereotyped and misunderstood, the time has come for Albania to be visited.

Crossing the Montenegrin border into this area of considerable wonder through roads less travelled, be prepared to be thrown a bit by the work in progress. Throughout the country, Albania definitely showcases examples of old times passed juxtaposed with the new. It is a miss-mash of eras with a distinct difference between older and young generations, where locals are still curious of tourists but friendly, where nodding means 'no' and shaking your head means 'yes'.The country's transformation to match a contemporary Europe remains slow but promising. The grandeur of new bars, clubs and restaurants display a complete contrast to an era not so long gone where any kind of materialistic luxury was forbidden.

The Capital, Tirana

While nothing appears to operate in an orderly fashion, it is a good idea to begin smack bang in the middle of the capital. Stepping off the furgo (equivalent to a bus) in Tirana is where the action starts. Tirana is a unique example of a European capital that has a plan to give a complete makeover to the tired and visually undernourished city. The eclectic mix of architecture and monuments representing different periods in Albanian history, bright gelati coloured buildings repainted to liven up the city, and the absurd traffic conditions with impatient drivers coming from all directions driving at all speeds are just as apparent as the beautiful, mountainous landscape sitting quaintly in the background of the hectic but interesting Tirana.

Begin at Skanderbeg Square, which is surrounded by important buildings and attractions which hold the history of its people, starting with the National Museum of History, a comprehensive insight into the past and present Albania. Follow with an afternoon browsing the National Art Gallery, which contains a surprisingly impressive collection of beautiful works form all various eras, the Realist Painting room in particular being the room they are most proud of.

And to end a not so typical day, a visit to a traditional restaurant Oda is particularly worthwhile.Representing a family's comfortable dining room, it serves Albanian food, and the refreshment raki, Albania's answer to vodka.

A Few Hours South in Berat

After getting a taste of Tirana, the next suggested stop is the charming town Berat, full of historic importance a few hours south of the capital. Travelling via fascinating villages through beautiful countryside spotting many a bunker, it is clear there is so much to this rugged and absorbing country. A common sight of men steering a donkey attached to a rickety cart loaded with goods moving slowly among the traffic, farmers selling colourful produce, and women leading cattle along the main roads all make for the perfect photo opportunity, leaving you with the feeling you have arrived somewhere else entirely.

No doubt, Albania leaves room for plenty of surprises and experiences unattainable elsewhere, providing the best chances to see something different. A relatively safe country to visit, it seems the only thing to be mindful of is the rough roads with potholes everywhere. Keep both eyes peeled at all times! It may not yet be the easiest country to get around in, but it's affordable with a lot to discover and uncover; this is part of Europe after all.