Into Albania

Shkodër, Shqipëria

Shkoder, Albania

December 28th 2022

The vibe of Shkodër in Northern Albania is odd. I didn't expect to find a cycling city this far into the balkans, but they seem to be everywhere here. Though, they are fittingly present in the balkan style of doing things: cycling on any side of the road you wish, maybe even going the wrong way around a roundabout, no problem. Car drivers are, however, noticeably much better than in Bosnia and Serbia, but I suspect that may be down to necessity. With the crazy number and behaviour of cyclists, along with the lack reliable of pavements, you have to be a good driver to not hit anyone.

So far, Albania has exceeded my expectations. It is the first place on this trip that feels real, not bending its authenticity for tourism.