Q1. How do I get to Albania?

A. You can choose to travel either by car or by air. There is still no direct air link between Copenhagen and Tirana, but the Hungarian airline company Malev and Austrian Air have the most frequent and cheapest flights with a short stopover in either Budapest or Vienna.

Q2. How is the political situation in Albania?

A. Albania is a young democracy which has recently become a member of NATO and is now working hard at also becoming a member of EU – but at the moment the political situation is somewhat chaotic.

Q3. Is it dangerous to be in Albania?

A. No, Albania is a quite peaceful country, and the Albanians are helpful and hospitable people.

Q4. Do the Albanians speak English?

A. Yes, many of the younger Albanians speak English, e.g. in restaurants and cafés. In addition many of them also speak Italian.

Q5. Do I bring Euro or Dollar?

A. Both will do, but a credit card is enough. There are cash dispensers in all towns.

Q6. What about Albanian money?

A. The Albanian unit of currency is called Lek. One Euro is about 125 Lek.

Q7. What is the price level in Albania?

A. It is low. But the price of petrol is about the same as in Denmark.

Q8. Is it possible to rent a car in Albania?

A. Yes. There are international car-hire services at the airport as well as at the harbour of Vlor. A smallish car costs about 50 Euro per day.

Q9. How are the roads and the traffic in Albania?

A. Road conditions have been much improved during the last 10 years. There is a fine motorway almost all the way from Tirana to Vlor, but you will still find road sections that are bad. Albanians do not drive like most Western Europeans, so it is best to have a reasonably practised driver behind the wheel.

Q10. Can you drink tap water in Albania and in Vila Amantia?

A. No. It is not to be recommended, but bottled water is not expensive and can be bought in all supermarkets and small shops.

Q11. Is there much corruption in Albania?

A. Yes there is, but as a tourist you will not notice it.

Q12. What is the religion in Albania?

A. Albanians have a very relaxed attitude to religion. 65 per cent are said to be Muslims, 25 per cent are Orthodox and 10 per cent are Catholics, but they live (and are buried) peacefully side by side.

Q13. Is it necessary to have a visa to get into Albania and what about insurance?

A. No. You don't need a visa, but it is always a good idea to check your travel insurance.