Essential Preparations: Albanian Riviera

Travel Planning Framework

A structured approach to your pre-trip actions.

Advance Preparations

steps for a seamless journey.

Early Planning

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity; six months beyond return date.

Flight & Insurance

Book flights, especially for high season. Consider travel insurance (World Nomads).

Accommodation & Car

Book accommodation and car rental (International Driving Permit needed).

Intermediate Steps

Research & Health

Research activities, book tours, consult doctor for vaccinations.

Language & Banking

Start learning basic Albanian phrases. Inform bank of travel.

Logistics & Documents

Confirm bookings. Download offline maps and translation apps. Print/save documents.

Final Countdown

Power & Safety

Charge devices. Pack a small first aid kit.

Contacts & Currency

Notify trusted contacts. Arrange local currency.

Weather & Packing

Check weather forecasts. Pack appropriate clothing (Eagle Creek).

Mandatory Reservations

Secure these items well in advance.

Reservations Checklist

Flights
Accommodation
Rental car (if needed)
Ferry tickets (Corfu-Sarandë)

Informative Exploration

Gain background knowledge for a richer experience.

Research Focus Areas

Familiarize yourself with Albanian culture and basic etiquette.
Read about the history of Butrint, Gjirokastër, and Berat.
View photos of specific beaches to aid your decision.
Secure your home by arranging for lights, mail, and pet care.

Departure Preparations at Home

Household arrangements for peace of mind.

Home Management

Pay bills due during your absence.
Arrange for lights.
Manage mail.
Organize pet care.

Safety & Communication

Secure your home.
Inform friends or family of your travel plans.
Provide emergency contacts.
Confirm return flight details.

Travel Essentials

Charge all electronic devices.
Pack a small first aid kit.
Download offline maps.
Download translation apps.

Thorough preparation reduces travel stress and allows for more enjoyment.

Refer to these steps to feel confident before your journey.

Arrival & Settling In

Smooth arrival into the Albanian Riviera.

Initial Steps

1
Clear immigration.
2
Collect your luggage.
3
If arriving at TIA, exchange a small amount of money or withdraw from an ATM.

Settling In

Purchase a local SIM card if desired.
Locate your pre-arranged transport, taxi stand, or bus stop.
Familiarize yourself with the immediate neighborhood: identify ATMs, pharmacies, local markets, and bus stops.

First Moments

Upon Arrival

Clear immigration and collect your luggage.

Exchange a small amount of money or withdraw from an ATM at TIA.

Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card if desired.

Locate your pre-arranged transport.

Orientation

Familiarize yourself with the immediate neighborhood.

Identify ATMs, pharmacies, local markets, and bus stops.

Packing your suitcase is a step in pre-trip preparation.

For all your packing and travel accessories, check out options on Amazon Travel Accessories.

Departure & Farewell

Prepare for your departure for a seamless exit from Albania.

Shopping & Shipping

Factor in time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
If shipping items, inquire about postal services or courier options.
Albania currently has no widely implemented VAT refund scheme for tourists.
Spend any remaining local currency or exchange it back.

Travel & Documents

Allow ample time for travel to the airport, port, or bus station.
Consider potential traffic delays.
Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights.
Arrive at ferry ports 1-2 hours prior.

Financial Wrap-up

Manage remaining currency and bills.

Money Matters

Remaining local currency should find use.
Consider exchanging unused Lek back.
Review any outstanding local bills or payments.
Keep small change for last-minute transport or tips.

Document Readiness

Confirm your return flight, ferry, or bus details.
All documents should be readily accessible.
Passport and boarding passes at hand.
Ensure your phone is charged for e-tickets.

Farewell Albania!

Reflect on the memories made and adventures experienced.

Essential Preparations