As Arctic conditions hit the United Kingdom with icy winds and snow, many Britons are considering holidays in warmer destinations.

Meanwhile, a budget-friendly, underrated European country, where a pint costs only £2.20, may be the ideal choice. Travel expert Simon Calder recommended it to the British newspaper *Express*.

Calder noted that the Mediterranean country sees temperatures around 28°C in April and 40°C in July. He added that holidays there are much cheaper than in other popular European destinations.

According to the cost-of-living calculator Numbeo, prices are comparable to those in the UK in the 1990s: a pint for £2.20 and a coffee for £1.50. BudgetYourTrip estimated that average hotel stays cost about £49 per night.

Earlier, Calder expressed admiration for the country during ITV’s *This Morning* in September 2024, focusing on the historic city of Durrës. Speaking with presenters Ben Shepherd and Cat Deeley, he described it as one of Albania’s most historic and beautiful cities.

He also highlighted affordable prices, recalling that he bought a pizza and a pint for around £6. He added that his 35-kilometre trip from the airport to the hotel would have cost only a few pounds if he had not missed the last bus.

For history enthusiasts, Durrës is ideal, known for its impressive Roman amphitheatre with intact mosaics. Meanwhile, beachgoers often compare Albania to Greece but without high costs, thanks to crystal-clear waters and scenic coastline.

The country has grown rapidly in popularity among tourists, with coastal towns like Ksamil going viral on social media. Still, Reddit users say Albania remains underrated, praising its stunning landscapes, affordable travel, and exceptionally welcoming people.

Many beaches are private and linked to bars or restaurants, so daytime access may require payment. Once settled, visitors can swim in calm, deep-blue waters.

In addition, Albania is a popular European destination for mountain hiking. The Albanian Alps offer high peaks, local guesthouses in remote villages, and impressive waterfalls.