The Albanian Riviera is becoming increasingly popular, especially among the TikTok generation, and it’s not hard to see why. The country’s vast golden coastline is a major attraction for tourists. The Riviera begins in the bustling seaside city of Vlora and stretches 110 miles to the small resort of Ksamil, which has been compared to a Maldivian island thanks to its sugar-white sands and clear turquoise waters.
Only recently has this underrated jewel of the Balkans, sandwiched between Greece and Montenegro, come to the attention of Brits. Although it has long been popular with Italians arriving by ferry from Brindisi or Bari, it was only in the late 1990s, after decades of communist rule, that it was possible to visit Italy. was.
Albania remains very affordable, and a three-course meal will often leave you with change in a £10 note. A specialty along the Riviera is delicious seafood, with signature dishes such as grilled octopus, steamed mussels in white wine sauce, and freshly caught calamari.
Vlore’s stylish beachfront Hotel Allos features a relaxing spa and wellness center. The best way to get here is to fly to Corfu and take the hour-long ferry to Sarande, another seaside town, but with the opening of a second new airport (currently the only one in the capital, Tirana) Expectations are rising. This year it will open in Vlore. If you’re looking for luxury at an affordable price, this is the place.Laura Miller
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