We entered Albania late morning ,almost noon. The September sun was soft and peaceful. Yep myself was at peace. At at a place like this I wanted to be alone, sip my coffee and gaze over the mountain tops. There were even a stream running along the rest area where we stopped. We were still by the edge of the mountains about two hours from the capital Tirana.
I thought Albania was a view with a bunch of ladies wearing scarf , skirt and looking old and frail. So far no such ladies but a stream of stunning mercedes and audis on the road. I will wait maybe my old ladies have not come out yet.
The history told us about massive migration of Albanians when the communists took over during WW1. They fled all over the world to Italy, England and the US. In the 60s, Albania was a strong ally to the US during the cold war.
We arrived in Tirana around Asr time. Monday afternoon traffics were crazy and chaotic. They left the car on the road regardless of the busy time and no sense of being guilty at all. we were stuck in the trafic and saw all kind of street violations. Pedestrians seem to be the king and no one dared to block or run the zebra crossing. Anyway, Tirana is a modern and vibrant city. No dusty roads or dongkey rides anywhere around here.
It has been a long day and we have another hour to reach the hotel. I’m getting tired. We were in Sckoda at Hotel Rofaza right in the city center.
The room was fantastic— nice and spacious for three of us. Dinner was okay—- carrot soup with salad and trilece. I slept well , alhamdulillah, trying to nurse my tired legs and spinning head. By 4:30 am I was up blinking in the dark wondering why I am too far from home. Not a very good way to start a day.
Breakfast was the usual , mediterranean style with bread and cheese. The hotel said everything is halal …..hhmmm….. I will take the eggs, thank you.
7:30 the bags were loaded and 8:00 we were on the way. Next stop is Montenegro. That means a gruelling wait at the border. After a few euros under the table we were on the way again.
