Express- Europe’s ‘answer to the Maldives’ is just a two-hour flight away
The Maldives is a dream for many holiday goers thanks to its pristine beaches, clear-blue ocean waters, and temperatures that hover around a comfortable 30C.
The Maldives boasts holiday-makers with unspoilt beaches, crystal-clear waters and temperatures reaching a pleasant, rather than oppressive, 30°C – however, a destination much nearer to home might prove an enticing substitute for many. While we find ourselves in peak holiday season with hotel reservations secured and luggage undoubtedly prepared in countless homes, some individuals will already be researching their next travel destination
The Maldives undoubtedly features on numerous wish lists, owing to its immaculate coastlines and azure ocean waters. However, a substantial price point and significant travel time investment might deter some from securing their Indian Ocean escape. Booking.com revealed in its Travel Predictions for last year that “travellers will balance budget constraints and luxury cravings”, reports the Mirror.
The platform noted that 62% of travellers indicated rising living costs would restrict their 2024 travel arrangements.
It further stated that 50% of holidaymakers desire to visit a location where living expenses are lower than in their home nation.
Last year, travel experts from Booking.com suggested that holidaymakers could opt for the shimmering beaches and stunning seaside stays in Albania.
The Balkan nation, tucked between Montenegro and Greece, offers a Mediterranean getaway at a fraction of the cost compared to other destinations in the region.
Specifically, Booking.com named the coastal city of Vlorë as one of their top picks for this year.
They said: “The jewel of the Balkans, Albania is the trending beach escape for 2024 due to its azure waters, impressive mountains, and affordability for all types of travellers.
“Tucked away in the southwest is the underrated seaside gem of Vlorë, the starting point of the Albanian Riviera and a great base for road trips to explore up and down this sunny coast.
“Home to some of Albania’s most beautiful beaches, the glistening shoreline provides visitors with Europe’s answer to the Maldives – a welcome option for the 43% of UK travellers who will be searching for luxe-for-less copycat holidays to reduce costs.”
While there are no direct flights to Vlorë, the nearest airport is roughly two hours away by car in Albania’s capital, Tirana.
There are also a plethora of budget-friendly flights that will take you directly from the UK to Albania, so be sure to explore the best options that cater to your needs.
Renting a car will likely be a more convenient option to reach Vlorë once you land in Albania and there are numerous providers available for you to select from. You can compare the cost of renting a car for your holiday with companies such as Holiday Extras.
Alternatively, a shuttle bus service operates between Tirana Airport and Vlorë. But for those wanting to explore the capital, they can catch a bus from the city centre bus terminal.
Owing to its popularity, there are a multitude of options available for people who wish to stay in Vlorë. There are hotels starting as low as £47.87 and five-star selections from 189.06 per night.
https://www.express.co.uk/travel/europe/2093038/vlore-albania-maldives-of-europe