‘European Maldives’ is ‘one of cheapest countries’ to visit with £30 return flights

The Maldives, with its expansive stretches of pristine white sand and idyllic blue seas, naturally beckons travellers from all over the globe. Yet, there are a handful of compelling reasons why some may opt out of such a trip.

The journey to this archipelago involves a long haul , along with a hefty price tag; expect to part with at least £2,000 for a week’s stay in those coveted over-water villas during the high season from December to April. The rising departure tax, now elevated to £40 per person, coupled with increasingly crowded islands—last year saw a record two million visitors—are potential deterrents. Environmental concerns also loom large as the lowest-lying country on Earth faces existential threats from escalating sea levels, prompting climate-conscious travellers to reconsider their plans.

Nevertheless, delightfully closer alternatives to this distant paradise exist—a boon for British holidaymakers. Albania, fondly dubbed “the Maldives of Europe”, boasts equally stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters along its magnificent Riviera.

Although steadily gaining recognition, this gem remains an economical option compared to other European hotspots. Luxurious stays won’t require deep pockets here, with some beachfront accommodations going for as little as £20 a night, reports

Dining out won’t break the bank either, with substantial meals and drinks often coming in around the £15 mark.

Albania, with its crystal-clear waters and pristine white beaches, has become a hot topic among travellers thanks to viral videos likening it to the Maldives, with a post by ksamil_albania touting it “one of the cheapest countries” they’ve been to.

And, luckily, flights to Albania are surprisingly affordable, with Ryanair offering return tickets to Tirana from as little as £30. The budget airline operates routes to Tirana from Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh and London Stansted.

Additionally, there are numerous daily departures from Luton to Tirana available for under £50 return in May on Wizz Air. Albania boasts the lowest living costs in Europe, with city-centre hotel rooms in Tirana going for less than £30, breakfast included.

Beachside apartments along the Adriatic coast offer even more value for money. Another cost-effective way to reach Albania’s dazzling coastline is to fly into Corfu and then take a ferry across for approximately £15 each way.

If you choose to stay in Dhërmi, you can explore a new beach every day. A delightful beachfront lunch in the area will only set you back around £10 per person.

Laura Hewson, a globetrotting New Zealander, encountered an unexpected travel gem during her autumn visit as she previously told the Express: “We were planning to go Croatia. But one of our friends who’d been to Albania told us [we should go there]. They said it’s like Greece or Croatia but cheaper and a lot more beautiful because there are not as many tourists. We’re actually staying at a four-star hotel with breakfast included for the same price that we were staying in hostels with eight [strangers] in a room in Italy and Spain.”

Her travel buddy, Farrell Modd, attributed their decision to head to Albania partly to social media influence, revealing they uncovered a slew of videos by travel enthusiasts that flaunted the nation’s breathtaking vistas. She enthused: “It’s beautiful, clear blue water, lots of swimming spots.”