Tirana, Albania – Another view
January 14, 2024
Tirana, Albania; Adventure Part 2
March 25, 2024Tirana is located in the centre of Albania, enclosed by mountains and hills
The Airports
Awaiting my flight to Tirana in Stanstead airport, a gentleman at the bar began a conversation as he took the adjacent seat. A skier from Luxembourg, we discussed our shared love of Doombar and mountains before he took leave for his flight.
As he left, a lady joined me. Describing her imminent move to France she spoke excitedly of the blossoming romance unfolding. As a widow making the most of life, her infectious enthusiasm was a sentiment I found myself drawn to. Facebook hastily exchanged, we wished each other well as I dashed off to my gate.
Checking my passport for the 100th time, I noticed the gentleman from the bar boarding next to my gate. I speak to many people on my travels and always wonder if I’ll ever see any of them again – the world is a small place. Eerie fog gave the runway a deserted feel as I climbed the stairs, even the shadowy planes looked menacing. Leaving my overactive imagination to run, I boarded.
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The Arrival
Snooze time on the plane, I woke relatively refreshed and found entering Albania a breeze. Tirana airport is an efficient place, and I had no issues getting through, nor finding the bus opposite. Finding a seat and sticking in my headphones, it was a 30min ride to the city centre. Unfortunately, I failed to realise Albania is not covered by my roaming package. Without data, and not having the foresight to download google maps, I was a little lost. After locating the Toptani Mall, I scored some free Wifi at Gess Bar, drank hot chocolate, and checked out where my apartment was. I implore you to be more sensible than I was and have the foresight to have a back up plan if internet fails…
Wandering along the streets, I couldn’t help but notice the very fashionable young women who put my boring outfit to shame! The lack of lone women in coffee shops made me hesitant to pop in and grab a solo coffee; I wondered if that was a cultural thing.
By the time I got to my apartment, I had a raging headache and was feeling sorry for myself. Looking online, I found Pizza Deliciosa Albania and ordered in. When I say this was better than the pizza I ate in Rome, I mean it! Not the cheapest but I thought it was worth every penny.
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The Apartment
Down a side street and round a corner, a quirky little building presented itself. Unsure what to expect from the exterior, I was amazed by the interior, it was lovely. Plenty big enough for me, all mod-cons included, The Tropical Rooms delivered.
In true Balkan style, there were even sliders by the front door. Naturally, I wore these with socks. As is custom for me, there should be separate indoor and outdoor shoes. It’s a thing!
The Attractions
With the first night out of the way, I felt like I’d wasted too much time already. Rising early, I headed out and walked to Tirana Park. The rental bikes were still locked away, so I carried on by foot, enjoying the changing colours as the sun rose. It’s a beautiful space, kids play areas, and even a zoo on the other side.
Heading out of the park, I found Mother Theresa Square, the casinos and the gun range. After a few hours of entertaining myself, I left to explore some more.
After passing MVRDV's Tirana Tower, with it's pixelated map formation, I stumbled across Bunkart2. I found myself immersed in this nuclear bunker whilst confronted with some brutal imagery. If you’re of a sensitive disposition, take caution with the nature of certain images on display. Thought provoking, it certainly reminded me that I have had a very lucky life.
To be continued... See Part 2 (COMING SOON!)
