Back to the Big Smoke

2 August 2011

Travelling back

We woke early for the 0745 direct bus to Tirana.  When a bus pulled up at 0720, the driver said “Tirana” and “directo” … so we boarded.  Strangely, none of the markings on the bus said “Tirana”.

Sure enough, when we reached Vlore, he instructed us to change to another bus.  It was actually a blessing in disguise as it allowed us a coffee break and we didn’t have to wait long between the two buses.

So, after a 1.5h and 3.5h journey, we were back in Tirana.  Roads in Albania aren’t the best and journeys are slow.

Observations and Questions of Albania

Some random observations, some of which lead to questions:

  • Men here aren’t afraid to wear pink.  They’re all macho enough for it not to look gay 🙂
  • There are many teddy bears tied to the verandahs of homes.  They seem to be left there … to rot.  Answers anyone?
  • I’ve seen nuns in Tirana with the characteristic habits (white and blue trim) plus saree-like robes of Mother Teresa fame.  I thought her order was based in Calcutta … not Tirana.   Answers anyone?
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