Exchange Rate
At present the Leke sits at around 140 for each Euro. Be advised though, if you do choose to pay with euro, they will generally only give you 100, especially the taxi drivers.
Customs
One aspect of Albanian culture that can be confusing for everyone except Bulgarians is when Albanians agree they shake their head and when they disagree they nod their head. So when you are asked if you want something and you do, you must shake your head for no, meaning yes.
As with any country it is advised to use manners where available. So, thank you - falemnderit will always be appreciated by the natives.
Attractions
National History Museum – One of Albania’s most visited tourist attractions, this landmark is an enjoyable way to discover much about Albania’s troubled past as they work together to move forward and create a new history. Very good for castle enthusiasts who wish to discover the locations of all the wonderfully historic castles scattered throughout Albania.
Mosaic – Fronting the National History museum is one of Europe’s most beautifully constructed mosaics depicting Albanians through the ages, walking forward in unison into whatever the future will hold. Most are armed as a precautionary measure, however are smiling and positive about what the future will bring.
Football – For a few hundred Leke you can see the best of Albanian Football (FIFA’s 95th ranked team in the world as of July 2009) at Oemal Staffa stadium. The atmosphere is enjoyable and a fun game to play there is ‘spot the female’, not
Nearby mountains – Grab a ride to the mountains where you can see sweeping views of the sprawling metropolis of Tirana and the unspoiled nature that abounds on the horizon.
Sit and watch the traffic –For 80’s Mercedes Benz aficionados and lovers of the sounds of constant car horns, Albanian traffic is a delightful myriad of sights and sounds. Fret not light sleeper, you can’t hear any of these noises from the hostel.
Eat out – Prices in Albania should not deter the average traveller from eating out and trying delicious meaty soups, pork based Qofte balls and bakery and pastry delights.
Shopping – This sounds like a cop out, but trust me it is not. Especially in summer when the dry heat implores locals to spend much of their free time in the air conditioned malls and newly built centres of commerce. This is what the Albanians do, so you may as well shoot along and check it out to.
Markets – From Skenderbeg Square heading past the right side of Tirana International Hotel is a series of fresh produce markets where the olive aroma fills the air along with other as pungent but less reputable smells.
Go for a run – The botanical gardens offer a grand space to facilitate a run or long stroll. There are some monuments dedicated to heroes and wars to ponder, and a few bars to stop at for a drink or a bite. Just be careful not to drift into the military zone where you may be deemed a spy and shot on sight.
Try a local brew – Kaon Natyrale Original. This beer is so lightly carbonated it flows down your throat like a cascading mountain stream. Delicious.