Sarandë, a coastal gem in Albania, has captured the hearts of countless travelers with its stunning views and rich cultural heritage. While my recent visit to Saranda brought about some challenges, I believe in the importance of balanced perspectives. In this blog post, I aim to shed light on my personal experiences, offering constructive insights for future tourists while celebrating the positive aspects that make Saranda worth exploring. Moreover, I'll explore the connection between sustainable tourism and the preservation of Saranda's beauty and authenticity.
Btw: it's officially written as Sarandë but the spelling 'Saranda' is also often used.
Sustainable tourism in Albania, Sarandë
Opting to travel to Saranda over long distant destinations aligns with sustainability principles on multiple fronts. Traveling by car to Saranda, especially for those residing in Europe, significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to long-haul flights to Asia. The short distance is not only eco-friendly but also time-efficient, allowing travellers to spend more time exploring and less time in transit. The allure of Saranda's beautiful sea and coastal landscapes provides a scenic escape without the need for extensive air travel. By choosing to explore Saranda's pristine shores, travellers contribute to local economies and support a more immediate and environmentally conscious tourism model. This thoughtful decision showcases how sustainable choices can be both rewarding and beneficial for both travellers and the planet.
Sarandë is not only known for its beauty, but also for its commitment to sustainable tourism. As a visitor, it's important to be mindful of the impact you have on the environment and support local businesses that share the same values.
Albania's commitment to sustainability shines through its innovative initiatives. A striking sight in the city center of Sarandë are the large green art installations designed to promote responsible waste disposal. By encouraging locals and tourists alike to deposit plastic bottles in these installations, Sarandë has significantly reduced litter on its streets. This artistic approach not only adds aesthetic value but also fosters a sense of community involvement in keeping the city clean. The presence of dedicated street workers further contributes to this endeavor, ensuring that the streets remain pristine.
Saranda's integrated approach to waste management, blending art, community engagement, and diligent street cleaning, serves as an inspiring model for fostering sustainability and enhancing the overall appeal of this charming coastal destination.
Sarandë: what to know BEFORE you go there:
The Allure of Saranda's Beauty
Saranda's allure lies in its breathtaking beauty, combining stunning coastal landscapes with a rich historical and cultural heritage. From the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea to the ancient ruins of Butrint, Saranda offers a diverse range of attractions that will captivate any visitor.
However, before you embark on your journey to Saranda, there are a few things you need to know to make the most of your experience. Firstly, it's important to be aware that Saranda is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. This means that the city can get quite crowded, so be prepared for larger crowds and longer queues at popular attractions.
Additionally, Saranda experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. If you're visiting during the summer, make sure to pack plastic free sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing to stay cool and protected from the sun. In the winter, although temperatures are mild, it's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Cultural Nuances
As with any travel destination, it's important to familiarize yourself with the local cultural norms and customs of Sarandë. Albanians are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, so it's always a good idea to greet locals with a smile and a friendly "Përshëndetje" (hello). English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Albanian phrases can go a long way in showing respect and appreciation for the local culture.
Every destination comes with its unique cultural dynamics, and Saranda is no exception. While most locals are friendly and hospitable, there can be instances where communication barriers or unfamiliar customs might lead to misunderstandings. Embracing these cultural nuances is part of the adventure.
Currency and Transactions
It's important to be aware of currency conversion rates and ensure that you're not overcharged in this popular destination. My experience with certain vendors highlighted the need to be cautious when handling money. It's advisable to double-check prices, ask for receipts, and conduct transactions in a clear and respectful manner. For example:
1. Getting money from the ATM in Sarandë has cost me about 20 euro's in transaction fees. Compared to ATM's in Gjirokastre where they charged just a few euro's, this is a huge difference. So be sure to take as much money you can at a time or you'll be overly charged the transaction costs.
2. If you are traveling from Corfu with Finikas and you need to get back, be sure to have euro's in cash available in Sarandë. They'll charge you in EURO's but if you don't have that in cash you can also pay in LEK. According to the exchange rate this would have been 3175 LEK but they charged 3500 LEK.
3. If you buy something at the grocery store, double check the price of fresh food. And even if this sounds ridiculous, ask if the price is per piece or per X weight. I bought an avocado, the price was 140 LEK (1,22 EUR) on the shelves but at the counter the price became 590 LEK (5,57 EUR) for 1 avocado.
Navigating Saranda
As a tourist, getting around Saranda is relatively easy but be aware that Albania doesn't work with modern systems. The city center is compact, making it convenient to explore on foot. Most of the main attractions, such as the promenade and the old synagoge, are within walking distance of each other.
If you prefer to explore further afield, there are various transportation options available. Taxis and rental cars are readily available, but be sure to negotiate the price before getting in. Alternatively, you can use the local bus but I would recommend to get a scooter because of the possible traffic jams!
Taking the bus in Sarandë
About taking the bus: there are buses for short distances and buses for long distances (tour busses with a fan). It's common that the short distance busses don't always arrive exactly on time but they do work with schedules. For the long distance tour busses: go to the bus agency the night BEFORE you leave because schedules might change :-)
The main bus area is between the Friendship Park and the old Synagoge. Here are many bus stops where you can take public transport to Gjirokastre, Butrint, Tirana, Berat and other destinations!
The price of bus tickets in Sarandë are very affordable. For example:
Travel from Saranda - Butrint (30 minutes drive): 200 LEK per person
Travel from Saranda - Gjirokastre (2.5 hour drive): 400 LEK per person
If you want to know more about Sarandë, read our other blog articles:
Food tips in Sarandë
How to travel from Sarandë to Butrint
How to travel from Sarandë to Gjirokastre
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