Lukewarm July in Durrës, absence of visitors from Kosovo and the diaspora noticeable

Despite a promising start in June, the tourist flow on the Durrës coastline during July has been lower than expected. According to tourism operators, a marked absence of visitors from Kosovo and the Albanian diaspora is being observed this year, categories that traditionally make last-minute bookings and account for a significant share of tourists during the peak summer months.

Blerim Norja, a tourism operator, explained that forecasts have not been met due to a drop in the number of individual bookings. He pointed out that even the city’s main promenade still appears quiet, indicating a reduced flow. According to him, one of the reasons relates to the more economical offers being presented by European countries, a factor that requires increased attention. Likewise, he did not rule out the possibility that the current unrest and protests may have had an impact, even if unintentional.

However, the hotel sector is continuing its activity thanks to prior agreements with tourist agencies. Holidaymakers from Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia continue to arrive in Durrës, while visitors from more exotic destinations have not been absent either. A Polish tourist, who is enjoying his stay in Albania for the first time, expressed enthusiasm about the experience. He mentioned that he is staying about five kilometers from the city and that everything seems very beautiful to him. He considered the prices very favorable compared to other European countries he has visited, while praising the quality of the food and the politeness of the people.

Another visitor, this time from Uzbekistan, shared the same opinion about the cost of the holiday. Being on his second day in Albania, he described the prices as normal and not at all high when compared to those in the United Kingdom. He said he had especially enjoyed the traditional food, which he found very tasty.

Although the start of July turned out to be more lukewarm than anticipated, representatives of the tourism industry remain optimistic for the coming weeks, hoping for an increase in bookings. They nevertheless admit that the gap created in this introductory period of the month could leave its mark on the overall balance of the summer season.