Tirana, Albania; Adventure Part 2
March 25, 2024
Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa); The Welsh Summit
April 12, 2024The area of Tirana has been inhabited by humans since prehistoric times with the earliest recognised reference found at the Cave of Pëllumbas belonging to the Palaeolithic period
Oooh Coffee
Heading away from the prison, I noticed an inviting café, Corner Coffee, across the road and braved it. I got a few strange looks, my garbled Albanian triggering a chuckle, but I successfully ordered coffee, politely. This café has no online presence but can be found at Rruga Kongresi i Manastirit 4, Tirana, Albania. Yes, I did spend 2 hours trying to relocate it on Google Maps; it hasn’t been updated since 2016 though, it looks totally different! With a relaxing, modern twist, people-watching from my perch outside was a nice way to kill some time.
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Things To Do
Lucky enough to be in Tirana for the opening of the Christmas Market in the main square, there was a plethora of keepsakes, snacks, beverages, and even a funfair which ensured there really was something for everyone. Much cheaper than Winter Wonderland in London, I found this smaller affair was much nicer in general.
Watching the hustle and bustle from Caffe Pallati, while eating petullat e gjyshes (Grandma’s pancakes – see picture), was a great way to rest for a bit.
From museums, to mosques, there's always somewhere to visit if the weather turns!
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Round Up
Attempting to check in on the Ryanair app, I quickly realised there was an issue – Albania does not accept digital passes. Having already checked out of my apartment, I contacted the host who was a diamond and recommended several places in my vicinity where I could print the boarding pass. If I’d realised earlier, he would’ve done it for me! Thankfully, The Plaza Hotel were more than accommodating and printed it all for me.
There are many locations offering free Wi-fi if you don’t have data, too. One spot I kept returning to happened to be the Vodafone Bridge.
I’ll briefly skim over the fact I was taken to one side, questioned, and literally had to have my papers stamped “Policia” before they would let me go at the airport… As a solo female traveller, I have garnered some unwanted attention in various places. I’ve been questioned multiple times in Italy, Romania, and Bulgaria about my intentions; where I’ve booked to stay, how much money I have on me, where have I been, and countless other questions. It was daunting at first, but I look at it as safety checks for their country and respect it. I have nothing to hide and don’t get stressed out by it.
My advice is to be transparent – even when I’m ‘winging it’, I’ve started booking hostels with free cancellation so I can give a straight answer. Plus, I know there’s a roof over my head if my free-range plans go awry. Be sensible, be polite, and remember people are just doing their job!
