Albania Nutz and Bolts
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Stumble It!Country: Albania
Where is it: Albania borders the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between Greece, Macedonia (FYROM), Kosovo and Serbia and Montenegro.
Why do people go here: This Muslim country is often left off traveler's itineraries beacause of its proximity to Kosovo and its own human rights violations during the 1990s. While things are steady improving, the country mostly attracts adventure seekers to its ancient ruins and archaeological sites. The former Communist country is also home to many beautiful mosques and churches and, given that almost half of the country borders water, a number of spectaular beaches.
What are the main entry points: The main entry points are from: Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia, and Greece by bus, from Italy by ferry and by plane in the Mother Teresa Airport in Tirana. Most visitors go directly to the capital, Tirana.
Currency used: Lek
Country Code for Phones: 355
Area codes for Major Cities: None Needed
Religion: Muslim 70%, Albanian Orthodox 20%, Roman Catholic 10%. Note: After 50 years of Communist rule, these percentages have changed because Albanians were not allowed to believe in God. They may not be accurate.
Population: 3.6 million
Ethnic Breakdown: Albanian 95%, Greek 3%, other 2% (Vlach, Gypsy, Serb, and Bulgarian)
Government: Emerging Democracy
Languages: Albanian (Tosk is the official dialect), Greek
Major Cities: Tirana
Attractions: Butrint Culture Heritage Site, Berat, Gjirokaster, Kruja, Korca (Voskopoja), Castles, Riviera at Ionian Sea, Adriatic Sea, Ohrid and Shkodra lakes, Tirana
Accommodation: Albania Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Albania-Ministry of Construction and Tourism Bulevardi Dishmorit e Kombit Tirana, Albania +355-42-28123;; FAX +355-42-27931
Off-the-Beaten-Path:
Health Issues: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over 1 year of age coming from infected areas.
When to go: August and September will find the longest days and warmest weather.
Common Phrases: Yes = Po, No = Jo, Please = Lutem, Thank you = Falederim
Specific Events/Holidays: Independence Day, 28 November
Getting Around: Busing is the best way to do it, as they're cheap and comfortable.
Good to know: Avoid areas to the north, and keep a high level of personal awareness and security.
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