Our conclusion on Albania and previously unseen pictures

We are leaving Albania with a heavy heart. But not without drawing a conclusion. You will also get this from us individually.

Ronny: The country has a beautiful nature and interesting cities. The people are warm, helpful and very sociable. You feel welcome there. But in many places, the beautiful landscape is spoiled by garbage. I find the many stray dogs disturbing, which cause unrest with their barking, especially at night, and are not always peaceful. There will definitely be a second trip to Albania for me. Also with the hope that tourism will be developed in the future.

Ela: Of course, the beautiful and diverse nature comes to mind first. For me, one of the most impressive landscapes I have ever seen. And right after that, the warmth of the people here leaves an impression. Most of them are open and very approachable, which is different from what I know. Especially women are intense and caring in their interactions with each other and with women from other countries. You will be touched and hugged right away. For us reserved Germans, it is not that easy to respond directly. We have already told you about the variety of impressions in our individual reports.

But there are also things that make you shake your head. The country is littered in many places. Everything is simply thrown into the rivers or nature. Garbage dumps are often burned. This biting smell followed us throughout Albania. Allegedly, the smell is supposed to keep snakes and scorpions away from the properties. The many stray dogs are also a problem. Sometimes they no longer have the strength to get up, they are emaciated or even aggressive, probably because they have had unpleasant experiences.

And then there are the Roma people. Whole shantytowns full of them in the cities. Only nailed boards, corrugated iron, and some fabric show the unimaginable poverty of the gypsies. They beg everywhere and push themselves onto you. However, the emerging sympathy quickly disappears when you offer them food instead of money. They throw it away and a tirade of curses follows. Sympathy turns into horror.

There is still so much to report about Albania. One of the poorest countries in Europe, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and so far the safest country in Europe that we have visited. This country is worth a visit. I can only recommend it!