Once a seasonal hotspot, the coastal city of Vlora is emerging as a year-round tourist destination, attracting both domestic and international visitors. However, the growing demand for services has highlighted a shortage of local labor, prompting businesses to recruit workers from Southeast Asia.
Employees from India and the Philippines are now working in Vlora not only during the summer months but throughout the year.
“We feel good here. We’ve been working for about six months. The salary is satisfactory, and our employer treats us well,” said a Filipino worker.
Workers from Myanmar have also found employment in local hotels, with some staying for more than seven months. They are learning Albanian from local colleagues and say they feel valued in their roles.
“Currently, 40 foreign workers are employed here, but during the summer, that number exceeds 100,” said Emanuel Lazaj, a hotel manager in Vlora.
While many foreign workers initially sign one-year contracts, some have chosen to settle in Albania permanently, bringing their families along.
Tourism Season Extends with Early Bookings
Tourism operators in Durrës report that holiday bookings started earlier this year, raising hopes for a year-round tourism season.
“Last year, bookings started in May. This year, they began in April. This is exactly what we, as an industry, are striving for—to extend the tourist season,” said Eduard Xhepa, head of the Durrës Tourism Association.
Tour operators expect around 2,200 Austrian tourists during April and May, extending the tourist season by two months—from April until early November.
Rising Interest from Israeli Tourists
While tourists continue to arrive from Germany, Italy, Greece, and Scandinavian countries, Israeli tourists are showing increasing interest in Albania.
“Many Israeli agencies are now looking to sign contracts with hotels in Durrës to bring tourists here,” said Blerim Norja, a tourism operator.
Albania’s Emerging Appeal
Tour operators note that foreign tourists are eager to explore Albania’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
“We are creating diverse tour packages that allow visitors to explore Albania’s most beautiful regions, which are developing rapidly,” Norja added.
For many foreign visitors, Albania remains a hidden gem full of surprises.
“We wanted to visit a country in this part of the Balkans because it seemed very interesting. Albania has so much history, and I want to learn more,” said a visiting couple.
“The weather is warmer here than where we come from. The people are welcoming, and the food is great. We’re having a wonderful time,” another tourist added.
Extending the tourist season into spring and autumn marks a significant step toward sustainable tourism, aimed not only at increasing visitor numbers but also at promoting Albania’s culture and natural beauty.
