The white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of Albania – considered by travel experts as the “Maldives of Europe” – are just a few hours away from Great Britain, writes Cyann Fielding in an article published in the British daily “The Sun”.
Wizz Air is launching direct flights from London's Gatwick Airport to Tirana - the capital of Albania - for just £19,99.
While Tirana is a vacation destination in its own right, most tourists use it as a base to travel to the Albanian Riviera.
Tirana is the capital of Albania and home to many bunkers.
Away from the city, you can explore the country's other resorts, which have earned the European destination the nickname "The Maldives of Europe."
Along the country's coastline there are crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and natural beauty.
There are also many beach bars to explore, which often serve typical Mediterranean cuisine.
For example, in the city of Saranda, which is located between the Ionian Sea and rolling hills, is the “Lost Seaside” hotel.
Here, visitors can enjoy the restaurant, swimming pool, sandy beach and crystal clear waters – including sun loungers that hang over the sea and pool.
In the same place, you can spend the day in a “Maldives” style overwater hut.
Prices in Albania are usually very cheap. You can get a pint of beer for just 250 lekë (£2,22) or a glass of wine for 200-400 lekë (£1,78-£3,55).
Food is also cheap, an average three-course meal for two people costs around 4500 lek (£39,94).
"The average price of a double room in Albania is 83 pounds per night," according to Kayak.
“With Albania increasingly being known as the ‘Maldives of Europe’, the flights will enable tourists to discover untapped destinations across South East Europe,” said Yvonne Moynihan, managing director at Wizz Air UK.
A journalist from "The Sun" recently visited Albania to see if the small European country offered quality beach holidays on a limited budget.
"Albania has become a favorite destination for tourists looking for a sunny and affordable vacation.
Flying out of London's Gatwick Airport, I was hoping for a cheap and enjoyable vacation, and that's exactly what I got.
The low prices were a pleasant surprise. In the city of Vlora, cocktails cost just £3,70.
A plate of seafood linguine cost just £5,20, and a full lunch on the beach in Ksamil cost just £11,30.
I stayed mostly in Airbnbs, which ranged from 14-21 pounds per person per night.
The stunning waters along the Albanian coastline were turquoise in color – similar to the seas found in Corfu or Sardinia.
The beaches were also quiet, thanks to the area still being an undiscovered gem.
Peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for tourists on a budget, Albania is the ideal vacation destination.
It is a hidden gem that offers exceptional value without compromising on beauty." /Albinfo.ch/
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