Finding the Slow Life: My Perfect Day in Vlorë, Albania
What does a richer life abroad really look like when you stop rushing? Join me in Vlorë, Albania—a place where the cost of living buys you more than savings. It buys you time. Time to breathe, to pause, and to simply be.
For those of us over 50 looking to recalibrate, Vlorë blends the calming presence of the sea with a deliberately slower rhythm. Here’s what a “richer life” looks like in a single, intentional day.
The Early Hours: Productivity or Peace
Sometimes my perfect day actually starts with a little bit of work on enjoyable passion projects. It's the time I have the most mental energy. My internet speed was solid, so I’m often video editing or creating branding. There is something deeply satisfying about being a creative creator before the world wakes up.
Often though the laptop is closed, to catch the best part of the light outdoors at sunrise or sunset. Some days, I take my camera and find my flow as a photographer/videographer.
I love a sunrise stroll along the Lungomare to grab some early morning Vitamin D. The sun pops up from behind the hills streaming down the promenade. The sea changes color; depending on the light—blue, green, silver—like moods.
Some days, I might swap the walk for a bike ride. Vlorë has a dedicated bike lane running all the way through it. Making for a safe, flat, from the top of the town center bus terminal down the Lungomare past the tunnel. You can push further south to enjoy the Albanian Riviera.
But today? Today is about calm water. I take my shoes off for a "paddle walk" along the shore. Even in October, it is warm enough for shorts, and with the summer sunbeds packed away, the beaches are beautifully clear.
Mid-Morning: The Art of Observation
After the walk, I stop at a seafront café. No need to rush coffee. It is about slowing down and remembering what time feels like when you aren't chasing it.
I sip a strong coffee (English tea drinkers, be warned—the coffee culture here is dominant and robust! ) and simply watch the waves and the passersby. It is a pause that sets the tone for the rest of the day.
Midday: Eating Well
One of the most striking differences I found in living here is the quality of fresh produce for the price. The cost was a fraction of what I would pay for this quality in the UK. It makes you realize that a richer life abroad isn't a step down; it can be a step up in quality.
Vlorë is geared up more than places like Thailand for cooking at home because my apartment had a great kitchen.
Fresh ingredients - I couldn't eat all this!
I cook lunch using ingredients sourced earlier in the week. A large fresh fish from the local fishmonger, paired with fresh produce from the market. I serve it alongside fresh olives and a homemade tzatziki. A simple meal, but the quality of the produce here is excellent—it encourages you to eat healthier, if you can control temptations.
Afternoon: Changing Perspectives
Later in the afternoon, I head out to the city center. It’s a walkable city, flat and easy to navigate.
On my way, I made a pitstop at my favorite café, INI - A Place To Be. It’s in the north part, stylish and quirky with a brilliant selection of drinks. Surprisingly good value considering its more upmarket appearance. It’s the perfect waypoint before my walk up a hill.
I enjoyed getting high above the city for a fresh perspective, so I headed up to Kuzum Baba.
The climb involves about 240 winding stone steps. Be aware that the path is poorly maintained, with erosion and broken sections. In several places, you may need a tiny detour to reach the top.
It gets the heart rate up a little, but the reward is a panoramic view of the city skyline and the bay where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet. I usually stop at the restaurant at the summit, not for a meal, but just for a drink to take in the view.
This would be a fantastic place for sunset but as I’m not confident on the journey down in the dark, I seek an alternative.
Sunset: The Daily Ritual
Seriously, sunset relaxing seems to be the main pastime for everyone here. Locals know how to unwind, often found with their legs dangling over the sea edge of the promenade or simply fishing.
Most evenings like the locals I headed down the large spacious part of the Lungomare to watch the sun dip below the horizon beyond the port.
If I haven't quite hit my step count for the day, I skip the Lungomare and walk up the Old Beach (Plazhi i Vjeter). It’s a wider, sandy stretch with a rougher, wilder feel. Walking north past the hotels, looking out towards Sazan Island, offered my favorite beautiful sunset view in the city. As long as I remembered the mosquito spray!
Evening: Community
As the sun dips, the city lights flick on, but Vlorë remains relatively quiet—this isn't a place for wild nightclubs. The evening is for connection.
I head to Beer House 24, a spot I found when I was there to mix with the international community. I mostly met Americans, but also other expats who have made the move. We share stories and some laughs. It’s a reminder that while you might be seeking solitude, you don’t have to be on your own.
On quieter nights, I might just head home to stream a film.
The Takeaway
This day didn't cost a fortune. It didn't require complex planning. It was built on sunshine, fresh food, movement, and conversation.
For those of us planning our next chapter, Vlorë teaches us that life moves in cycles, and it's never too late to choose a cycle that prioritizes your health and your joy.
Taylor
Thank you for being here!
Are you ready to design your own day like this? If this rhythm resonates with you, I’ve compiled much more details—from the cost of food items to exact location of the best cafes—in my Detailed Field Notes. [COMING SOON]
Start planning your richer life abroad.
