Charming and energetic are adjectives used to describe the emerging Albania. We are delighted to introduce this new destination, the once mysterious Balkan and Mediterranean country, situated on the coast at the juncture of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas north of Greece. Our tour begins and ends in the capital city of Tirana and we can help you with flights.

Hospitality is a tradition in Albania that dates back to the time of Homer when guests were greeted as sacred. The Kanun or The Code, written in the 15th century demands the guest be treated with the highest respect.

Our small group of no more than fifteen will have the great treat of traveling with Mr. Auron Tare on this introductory tour. Ari, a prominent historian, journalist and undersea explorer, will meet you in Tirana to explore the country influenced by Greeks, Roman, Italians and Turks, all of whom left their indelible marks. We’ll also get an excellent perspective of modern day Albania as it emerges as an unspoiled European destination.

If you wish to extend your vacation, travel from the Albanian side of Lake Ohrid to the Macedonian side, on to Skopje and continuing to Sofia, Bulgaria (Macedonian Bridge, June 8-12, 2011). There you may return home or connect with the Seven Wonders of Bulgaria, June 12-22, 2011. We are eager to show you the Balkans in a fresh light with the best guides on the planet.

Gwen Erwood
President, Travel Concepts International

• Join our small group of no more than 15 delightful travelers, plus our tour escort
• Get to know Scanderbeg, the medieval hero of Albania
• Be honored guests at a Bektashi mystical Sufi Order “teke”
• Travel along the Albanian Riviera and have a relaxing stop at a private beach at Ksamili Islands
• Explore the World Heritage Site of Butrint with your guide, one of its founders
• Have a seat in one of the largest Roman theaters in the world at Epirus
• Examine the recently excavated mosaics in the Synagogue of Saranda
• Enjoy Gjirokastra, a World Heritage City and dine in an old traditional restaurant in its Bazaar
• Make a scenic drive through Kelcyra Gorge, site of the battle between Philip of Macedon and the Roman Army
• Behold exquisite Byzantine paintings in Permet, Leusa and Mborja churches
• Delight in Korça, the “Little Paris” of the 1930’s
• Feast your eyes on Lake Ohrid, selected as one the top 31 places to visit in 2010 according to the New York Times
• Prepare with pre-trip study material