Notes on Albania

The national currency of Albania is the Leke. You can exchange foreign currency for Leke very easily in Saranda, either at a bank or on the street, and also sometimes in shops and bars. A currency exchange office has also now opened on the promenade at Lagja 1, Rr. Skenderbeu, and is open daily from 8 am till 8 pm.

The easiest currencies to change are Euros and US dollars. It is quite normal to have a note refused if it is torn or defaced in any way. Haggling is common, so be prepared to bargain over the exchange rate if you are changing in the street or in a bar. It is not possible to buy or sell Leke outside Albania.

In addition to Albanian, Greek is often spoken in the Saranda region, and in some villages is the principal language. Italian is the next most common language, though English, French and German speakers can be found relatively easily.

Time zone: Albania is GMT +1 hour. That is, one hour ahead of the UK, in the same time zone as Italy, and one hour behind Greece.

International mobile phones normally work in most areas of Southern Albania. The terrestrial telephone system currently being modernised and similarly internet cafes can now be found in most cities.

No specific inoculations are required for Albania. There is a hospital in Saranda, with an international staff, which can deal with medical emergencies. For health and insurance issues, please check with your doctor and embassy prior to your visit.