Due to the political unrest in Turkey the cruise lines have had to pull out and look for an alternative destination, this must have proved quite difficult and a logistical nightmare, I’m sure. So where is the new destination that they all seem to favour? Albania! Being the age I am (no jokes please) I recall Albania been the last “outpost” of communism in the west and remember my own holidays to Corfu in the early 1980’s when if you did a island cruise you could see Albanian war ships watching you. Of course this has all changed and Albania certainly seems to now fit the bill.
Msc, Cunard, P&O, Holland America & Seadream are already including the port of Saranda for this year. Saranda is a very important tourist location for Albania, since foreigners and Albanians alike flock there each summer. Whether you want to relax on the beach and swim to one of the islands in Ksamil, or perhaps just enjoy a nice meal or drink next to the glistening Ionian sea, you will likely find yourself charmed by this unique location. It is set near the border with Greece with many ancient sites to visit. One of them the site of Butrint has also been restored to its former glory. Butrint is described as a microcosm of European history since it exhibits remains from most major empires of the area, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman ruins, maybe not quite Ephesus but worth a visit.
The town or port of Saranda certainly does sound very nice, with I think, should keep you entertained on your shore visit. For example there is Lekursi Castle which is located on the top of a hill, overlooking Sarande. There are excellent views of Corfu and the islands of Ksamil from the castle. The castle was built because the vantage point was ideal for protecting the city from invaders who might have tried to come by boat. There are also ruins which show that there was a large wealthy Jewish community in Oncheasmos (ancient name for Saranda) during the 5th century AD. The buildings were destroyed either by an earthquake or by Slavic invasion.
If you have been to Corfu or any of the Ionian islands in Greece, you know how beautiful the scenery is, from what I can see Albania certainly seems exactly the same, as well it should really been in that part of the world.
MSC cruises in particular seem very excited about this new destination as they are the first cruise line to call here on the MSC Poesia which sails from Venice. I would actually love a visit here I think it will be very interesting. Is this “new” destination somewhere which you think is a good idea or would you have perhaps picked somewhere else?
As always, I would love to hear your thoughts.
Till next time,
Lesley x