Tirana, Albania

• Tirana sits at the foot of Mount Dajti, and after decades of communist isolation, it's still finding its identity. Communist-era buildings painted in bright colors sit next to modern cafes and international restaurants. Women work in shops, run businesses, and meet friends alone without it being unusual.
• The Albanian tradition of Besa - a code emphasizing hospitality to guests - means people actually want to help travelers. This can sometimes mean more attention than you're comfortable with, but it's usually well-intentioned. English works in tourist areas and with younger people. Basic Albanian phrases like 'faleminderit' (thank you) and 'nuk po kuptoj' (I don't understand) are useful everywhere else.
• Crime is low compared to Western European capitals. Pickpocketing happens on crowded buses and in markets, but violent crime against foreigners is rare. The Tourist Police speak English: +355 4 222 2222.
• Public buses cost 40 Lek and run until 23:00. They're packed during rush hour (07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:00). After dark, taxis are cheap and better than walking in poorly lit areas. Blloku and the city center stay busy until midnight with decent lighting and foot traffic.

Albanian is the main language. Younger people, tourist areas (Skanderbeg Square, Blloku), hotel staff, and upscale restaurants usually have English. Tourist Police (+355 4 222 2222) speak English. In traditional neighborhoods and local markets, basic Albanian phrases help.

• Dress is casual and modern in Tirana - wear what you'd wear in any European city. In traditional neighborhoods or mosques, covering shoulders and knees is respectful, but there's no strict code.
• Coffee culture is big here. Sitting alone in a cafe for hours with a book or laptop is normal. Coffee costs 100-150 Lek and no one rushes you. Lunch is 12:00-14:00, dinner starts late around 19:00 or after.
• Cash is still common. Many smaller restaurants, shops, and some tourist places don't take cards. ATMs are easy to find in the center and Blloku.
• The hospitality tradition here is real - people actually want to help. If someone offers directions or invites you for coffee, it's usually genuine. Still, trust your instincts.

• City buses cost 40 Lek and run 06:00-23:00. Routes show up in Google Maps. During rush hours (07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:00) they're packed, which is when pickpocketing happens.
• Taxis are cheap - 300 Lek for the first 2km, then 95 Lek/km. Use Bolt or taxi apps instead of flagging cars on the street.
• The center is walkable. Skanderbeg Square to Blloku is 15 minutes on foot. Sidewalks and crossings are decent, but drivers are aggressive. After 22:00, stick to main roads like Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard where there's better lighting.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Tirana with local guides and curated experiences.