The Greek daily eKathimerini recently featured a travel story originally published by the New York Times. The article showcased Albania’s natural beauty, historical towns, and warm hospitality.

Journalist Valeriya Safronova wrote about Ksamil, Saranda, and the historic cities of Berat and Gjirokastër. She described Albania as a place where travelers can explore ancient sites in the morning and relax on sandy beaches by evening.

Safronova shared her experiences at Ksamil beach and evening strolls in Saranda. She noted that Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflects Albania’s long history as a bridge between East and West. She observed that the country’s towns show a mix of cultural influences from different eras.

She described Berat as lying along the Osum River, with red-tiled roofs climbing gentle slopes. Hundreds of windows overlook the valley like watchful eyes.

Safronova also highlighted Gjirokastër. She said the city felt like something out of a storybook, with stone houses decorated with detailed woodwork and narrow cobbled streets winding between them. She added that subtle reminders of a tense past linger. Hidden structures and tunnels hint at the shadows history has left behind, giving the city a layered character that blends beauty with memory.

/a.p./