Well, founder of She Hit Refresh, Cepee Tabibian, has a powerful revelation. She hopes to show Americans what a hidden jewel Albania is, providing an up-and-coming destination for Americans looking to move abroad. The country, which was isolated under a strict communist regime until the fall of the Berlin wall in 1989, now has shifted to a colorful place that lures expatriates, particularly women more than 30.
An additional lure to Albania is the warmth of its culture and pro-American sentiment, which makes it easy for newcomers to get comfortable in their new home. Adventure seekers Tabibian says Albania checks all the right boxes for the adventurous at heart. It provides reassurance throughout the moving process. Good news for Americans—travelers can stay in Albania without a visa for as long as 12 months. This combination of factors makes Albania an attractive destination for anyone seeking a new overseas adventure.
Expats in Albania founder Denisa Kaca Bradley on the unique range of immigration options on offer in Albania. These options fulfill very different needs from shifting commuting patterns to meeting the needs of a diverse workforce. This is particularly important in a landscape where many seek stability and support while navigating the complexities of moving to a foreign country.
As it turns out, the cost of living in Albania is incredibly affordable compared to the average U.S. city. For instance, Cheryl Orlov, who moved from California, shared her experience: “Even though the cost of living is rising in Tirana, it’s still a fraction of what I paid in California.” Most people report being able to rent nice, cozy apartments in Albania for less than $500/month.
Monica Miranda, 43, decided to relocate from Jersey City to Vlorë. Throughout this pandemic lockdown period, she’s really blossomed in her new adventure in Albania. She remarked on her immediate connection to the country upon arrival: “The moment I arrived, something clicked. One month turned into two.” In the process, Miranda has developed a flourishing community of expats. It features speakers from a range of countries including the U.S., U.K., Australia and Latin America.
Albania’s natural beauty further enhances its appeal. It’s an extraordinary place, too—with stunning valleys, mountains, deserts. To the north, take in the imposing Alps, to the east, enjoy mesmerizing azure waters as the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. Corfu is an island that should draw every traveler in with open arms. It’s located only a 30-minute ferry ride, making fantastic travel opportunities for those that call Albania home.
Tourism is booming in Albania, giving it an air of the charming up-and-comer making good. Over the past 10 years, the country has experienced a tourism boom. Today, it’s becoming more and more of a magnet for digital nomads and retirees seeking an affordable quality of life, particularly by the way of relative comparisons to pricey, urban U.S. locales.
Booming tourism Tabibian adds that most Americans who visit Albania use it as a base to visit the rest of Europe. More people than ever are finding what makes Albania a winning combination of affordability, community spirit, and natural beauty. Consequently, the country is set to continue to be an attractive option for expatriates.