What a Month in Vlorë Actually Cost Me
I tracked every expense for 35 days in Albania. Here's exactly where the money went, what it bought me, and why the numbers only tell half the story.
What If You Could Stop Working 10 Years Earlier?
The maths of living abroad don't just mean a cheaper life. They mean you might not need a salary at all. And that changes everything.
Why Vlorë, Albania Deserves to Be on Your Relocation List
Albania wasn't on my original list. After a month in Vlorë, I understood why the people who find this place tend to stay. Here's what I found, what it costs, and the honest trade-offs.
Five Things I Loved About Vlorë That You Won't Find in a Travel Guide
After a month in Vlorë, certain moments stood out more than the obvious highlights. These are the five things I'd tell a friend about over a coffee.
Eating Well in Vlorë: Markets, Home Cooking and What It Actually Costs
I expected to eat affordably in Albania. I didn't expect to eat this much healthier. After a month in Vlorë, I was cooking fresh ingredients more than I ever did at home, spending less than I would in the UK, and eating better food.
Vlorë's Beaches Explained: Every Stretch of Coast from Old Beach to Past the Tunnel
Vlorë has one bay but half a dozen completely different beaches along it. Here's what each one is actually like, from sandy stretches to shingle coves, so you can pick the right part of the coast for your stay.
The Walk to Kuzum Baba: Finding Vlorë's Best Viewpoint
A step-by-step photo guide to reaching Kuzum Baba, the 70-metre hilltop viewpoint above Vlorë. The path is tricky but the panoramic views are worth it.
Taking the Buses from Tirana to Vlorë: What to Expect
The intercity bus from Tirana to Vlorë costs 700 LEK and takes under three hours. It's not easy to navigate the first time, this post and photos show exactly what to look for.
The Albanian Tea That Replaced My English Breakfast
As a lifelong English tea drinker, I expected to struggle in Albania's coffee-obsessed café culture. Instead, I discovered çaj mente, and it became a genuine health bonus.
Vlorë Quickstart: Everything You Need for Your First Month
Planning to stay in Vlorë for a few weeks, not just a holiday? Here's the essential overview with links to the detailed guides.
Why I Loved Vlorë in Shoulder Season
I visited Vlorë in September and October. The tourists had thinned, the sunbeds had vanished, and the city felt like it belonged to the people who actually live there.
Where to Stay in Vlorë: A Neighbourhood Guide
Vlorë is compact and easy to navigate, but where you base yourself matters. Here's an honest breakdown of the main areas and what each offers.