Albania

Living in Tirana, Albania

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• published: 16 Dec 2014
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Join SHABL aka Subscribe - http://bit.ly/1uR4ogG A slice of life living in Tirana, Albania. This is my last day unfortunately and go about the business that people usually do before the leave somewhere cool and affordable. Stock up on stuff, eat lots of good food and further explore the area. Tirana has a bad rep like most of Albania and from what I experienced, it's totally unwarranted. I had a fantastic time trying a bit of living in Tirana and living in Albania in general. I say living in as opposed to visiting because I didn't really do much touristy stuff compared to just go about my day to day life while I was there. Tirana and Albania in general are places I'd like to return to one day during the summer to get another taste; cool spot. Alex - http://findingthefreedom.com A traveler's guide to Tirana About Tirana Inhabited since the Paleolithic era, Tirana has a long history that has included communities started by the Illyrians (who coined the name Tërana, which eventually became Tirana), Romans, Byzantines, and the Ottomans. Proclaimed the temporary capital of the newly independent capital of the country of Albania in 1920, it was deemed to be the permanent capital in 1925, which served to accelerate its growth. Falling under the Soviet sphere of influence following the outcome of the Second World War, its architecture mirrored the Brutalist style of building found elsewhere throughout the rest of Russia and Eastern Europe. Since then though, renovation efforts and new construction since the end of Communism in the 1990's has freshened things up, and its young population has lifted the spirits of this place in recent years. The nightlife scene is hot, cafes are full following the conclusion of the work day, and rising economic prosperity has given rise to a sense of optimism everywhere you go. Combined with significantly lower prices compared with their Italian neighbors across the Adriatic, and you have an excellent urban escape that will get your Albanian trip off to the right start. Places to visit Start your tour of Tirana in Skanderbeg Square. A popular public gathering place for residents, its centrepiece is a monument to Albania's greatest hero, and with numerous restaurants and cafes ringing its periphery, it is also a great place to watch people stroll by. Et'hem Bey Mosque should be next on your list, as its long history that dates back to the 19th century, as well as its central role in helping the people defy Communist authorities in the early 1990's, when 10,000 worshipers streamed into the prayer hall after having been shut down by the totalitarian government for almost 50 years. The Islamic art inside is magnificent, but be sure to dress respectfully. The National Historical Museum will help visitors understand the challenges the country face during Communist times, as well as how life was during the days of Ottomans, Byzantines, Romans, and in earlier eras. Additionally, there is also a pavilion that profiles the life and times of Mother Teresa, who was born and raised in Albania. Finally, cruise through the National Art Gallery of Albania, as it contains visual art from nationally famous creatives, which includes Socialist Realism paintings from this nation's Communist days. Things to do Those looking for a break from the city, and a great vantage point from which to photograph Tirana from above will want to ascend Mount Dajti. Serviced by a cable car, visitors can go hiking, horse riding, and skiing in the winter. More urbane-minded travelers will want to have fun at the Taiwan Complex instead. An entertainment centre located in a park in downtown Tirana, it is home to restaurants, bars, a casino, a bowling alley, and many other attractions. If the sun is shining, it is a wonderful place to be. Those looking to chill or seek out a great dinner will enjoy having a coffee or a meal on Murat Toptani Street. A pedestrian only street in the car dominated core, the relaxing atmosphere has given rise to some of this city's trendiest spots, so be sure to walk through here first when looking for a place to eat. Once the sun sets, don't forget to sample the nightlife in Tirana. Radio Bar is a good spot to start the night, as its quieter yet hip atmosphere makes it easy to meet locals, who tend to be university students at this venue. When the time comes to rock out for the rest of the night, Alfa Bar is an awesome place to go, as it stays open late, and often host great local bands. JOIN SHABL: http://bit.ly/1uR4ogG INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/bloggeries TWITTER: http://www.twitter.com/bloggeries BLOG: http://stophavingaboringlife.com Music provided by Audio Network... Filmed on a scratched GoPro Hero 3+ Black Subscribe for more daily vlogs of the travel nature...