National History Museum
This landmark is an enjoyable way of wiling away a few hours and discovering much information about Albania’s troubled past as they strive forward into the 21st century. (soon) Very good for castle enthusiasts who wish to discover the locations of all the wonderfully historic castles scattered throughout Albania.
Mosaic
Fronting the National History museum is for mine, one of the world's best mosaic depicting Albanians through the ages, walking forward in unison into whatever the future will hold. Most are armed as a precautionary measure, however are smiling and positive about what the future will bring.
Football
For 300 Leke you can see the best of Albanian Football (The national side is FIFA’s 79th ranked team in the world as of July 2010) at Oemal Staffa stadium. The atmosphere is enjoyable and a fun game to play there is ‘spot the female.’
Nearby mountains
Hire a mini-van or steal a car (not advised) and head for the mountains where you can see sweeping views of the sprawling metropolis of Tirana and the unspoiled nature that abounds on the horizon.
Sit and watch the traffic
Pick a lane, any lane. For 80’s Mercedes Benz aficionados and lovers of the sounds of constant car horns, Albanian traffic is a delightful myriad of sights and sounds. Fret not light sleeper, you can’t hear any of these noises from the hostel.
Eat out
Prices in Albania should not deter the average traveller from eating out and trying delicious meaty soups, pork based Qofte balls and bakery and pastry delights. (not as cheap on the main streets)
Shopping
This sounds like a cop out, but trust me it is not. Especially in summer when the dry heat implores locals to spend much of their free time in the air conditioned malls and newly built centres of commerce. This is what the Albanians do, so you may as well shoot along and check it out to.
Markets
From Skenderbeg Square heading past the right side of Tirana International Hotel is a series of fresh produce markets where the olive aroma fills the air along with other as pungent but less reputable smells.
Go for a run
The botanical gardens offer a grand space to facilitate a run or long stroll. There are some monuments dedicated to heroes and wars to ponder, and a few bars to stop at for a drink or a bite. Just be careful not to drift into the military zone where you may be deemed a spy and shot on sight. (this will not happen – I have a flair for the dramatic)
Try this beer
Kaon Natyrale Original. This beer is so lightly carbonated it flows down your throat like a cascading mountain stream. Delicious.
