Visit Ksamil, the fascinating coastal destination in Albania

Maldives are one of the most dreamy holiday destinations in the world and a popular choice for couples spending their honeymoon, writes Esther Marshall in an article published in the British daily Daily Mail.

But the islands are likely to have high prices, especially as most accommodation options are luxury resorts. However, if the cost of the islands goes beyond your budget, there is a European destination where you can experience a similar sensation but much less money.

Travel experts say tourists will find « Maldives of Europe » in the most affordable country, Albania. They recommend Ksamil, a fascinating coastal village in Albania, as a budget alternative to the Maldives. Tourists also say that this tourist place is a cheaper « version » of the Maldives.

Experts appreciate the crystalline waters and the white sandy beaches of Ksamil – describing it as « the most dizzying place ».

Lonely Planet has described Ksamil as the country with some of the best beaches in Albania. « In the south of Saranda, the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera, and in a short distance from the Greek border, Ksamil has a great location, » experts say.

You can swim or make a boat trip to the three small islands in its turquoise -colored bay – where there are fewer tourists than on Saranda’s noisy beaches. Ksamil’s most rated beach in « Tripadvisor » is « Ohana Beach Bar », which has a 4.4 of 5 stars rating.

Tourists can also explore an extraordinary historical landmark while in Ksamil. Butrint National Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is only 17 kilometers from the coastal village.

The ancient ruins are more than 2,500 years old and include a theater of Hellenistic era and early Christian monuments. Holidays in Ksamil cost much less than in the Maldives. According to « Wise », the average cost of a meal in a free restaurant in Albania is only 1,000 ALL/8.50 pounds. Meanwhile, a domestic beer costs only 249 ALL/2,13 pounds and a cappuccino costs only 164 ALL/1,40 pounds.

To reach Ksamil from the UK – British tourists will have to fly to Tirana, Albania or to Corfu, Greece. The village of Ksamil is about four hours away from Tirana, while tourists can get a ferry from Corfu to get there. The ferry travel lasts about half an hour in Saranda, a popular seaside resort, less than 30 minutes from Ksamil. Ksamil is the European destination described as a cheaper alternative to the Maldives.