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Is it Safe to Travel to Albania? Yes!

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Is It Safe to Travel to Albania? Yes! And Here's Why. People often wonder if it’s safe to travel to Albania. This is not surprising, given that the movie Taken has painted the tiny country in a negative light. But is that reputation accurate? Actually, no. In reality, Albania is gaining recognition as one of the safest and most welcoming places in the world. It boasts a safety record comparable to Canada’s, and its friendliness index is off the charts . Low Crime Rates and Friendly Locals Albania and its visitors enjoy a remarkably low crime rate compared to many Western countries. Pickpocketing is rare, violent crime is even rarer, and incidents involving tourists are almost nonexistent. Albanians are renowned for their friendliness—locals often go out of their way to assist travelers, while respecting their privacy. They genuinely appreciate tourists and aren’t shy about showing it. A Safe Destination for Solo Travelers Everyone, including solo travelers, frequently report feeli...

My Favorite Restaurant in Tirana: Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village

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While there are many fantastic restaurants in Tirana, this one stands out as my absolute favorite. Not only is the food exceptional, but the prices are also incredibly reasonable, with dinner costing just ALL 2,000–2,500. The food here is absolutely delicious, and we find ourselves returning several times a week when in Tirana. Yes, it’s that good. Our go-to dishes include the Cornbread with Yogurt, Tave Dheu, Lamb Ribs, Yellow Cheese, and a refreshing Korça beer. The Cornbread with Yogurt is phenomenal—perfectly toasted homemade cornbread with a delightful crunch, topped with a savory yogurt sauce. The Tave Dheu is another must-try: a sizzling hot earthenware casserole of beef, rich Albanian cottage cheese (better than what you’ll find in North America), and a flavorful blend of spices. The grilled lamb ribs are equally remarkable—tender, perfectly grilled, and infused with a slight smoky barbecue flavor that’s hard to resist. The service is equally impressive. The waiter is one o...