In May 2025, I travelled across Albania with my mum and sister — and let’s just say, this country surprised me in all the best ways.
I had done my research (as I always do), but some things you only learn on the road. From mountain driving to hanging teddy bears, here are 5 quirky, useful, and totally unexpected things I wish I had known before landing in Tirana.
1. Albania was about to test my driving skills… hard
I thought I was ready. I’ve lived in Ghana, so chaotic traffic doesn’t scare me. People crossing randomly? Cars stopping in the middle of the street? Totally normal.
But what I wasn’t ready for was mountain roads, steep climbs, and tight parking spots — with a manual car we rented via WhatsApp (skeptical at first, satisfied at the end).
Driving through small towns like Berat and Gjirokastër felt like an adventure of its own. And parking on a slope? Not my favourite moment.
Luckily, there was always a kind Albanian nearby to help us out with a smile. No accidents, just a few minor panics 😅
2. Teddy bears. Garlic. Everywhere.
In Berat, Gjirokastër and most mountain villages, you’ll spot something odd hanging outside homes and shops: garlic bulbs and teddy bears.
At first, we were confused — is this a decoration trend?
Turns out, it’s an old superstition to protect against the evil eye and bad spirits. It may look strange, but it’s kind of sweet.
3. ATM fees are wild — but ATMs are everywhere
Even with my Revolut card, I was being charged €5 to €8 per withdrawal, no matter the amount. Not a percentage — just a flat fee.
So, a tip: withdraw large amounts at once instead of doing multiple small ones.
That said, finding an ATM is never a problem — we spotted them in the mountains, next to gas stations, inside shops, and literally dozens in the main street of Ksamil.
We counted over 13 ATMs on a single street!
Just be sure to carry some cash, while most places accept cards they like cash payment — especially in more rural areas.
Bonus: you can often pay in euros or lek, depending on where you are.
4. Albanians are warm, generous… and may invite you to a wedding
People told me Albanians were welcoming — and they weren’t lying. Whether it was helping us park on a narrow mountain road or offering a hand on slippery stairs to my mum, they always showed up with kindness and without expecting anything in return.
One day, we even found ourselves casually invited to a wedding. Yes — a real Albanian wedding. That’s just the kind of place this is: generosity is a way of life, and it made our trip all the more memorable.
And I see you — if you’re someone who carries a generous dose of melanin all year round, let me say this: I felt safe, comfortable, and fully at ease during our entire 9-day stay.
So if you’ve ever hesitated, take this as your sign: come to Albania. You’ll be welcomed with a smile, a glass of rakia, and maybe… even a wedding invite.
5. Expect the unexpected — and bring good shoes
Albania isn’t just beautiful. It’s also surprising, raw, and unpredictable.
You’ll go from mountain trails to coastal roads in a single afternoon. From ancient castles to beach bars. From getting lost in tiny villages to drinking homemade rakia with strangers.
Oh — and bring real shoes. Many streets are cobbled, and walking often means lots of ups and downs.
Some paths are steep, others slippery, and your flip-flops will not thank you.
Not yet in your radar ?
Albania might not be on everyone’s radar yet — and maybe that’s what makes it so magical.
It’s a mix of untouched nature, deep-rooted traditions, Mediterranean charm, and warm people.
That’s why I’ve poured all of this into a travel guide — a resource to help you plan less and experience more, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or in family.
The full guide will be released on 13 June — complete with my personal itinerary, handpicked hotels, restaurant tips and local experiences.
🎁 And if you’re subscribed to the Tallaadventures newsletter, you’ll get a mini travel guide for free — my gift to help you start your Albanian adventure.
So what are you waiting for?
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