Albania is a country of wonders and paradoxes, but the more we open up to the world, the more we surprise foreigners.
Although foreigners quickly begin to feel comfortable in Albania, there are some things they could not imagine.
Albanian habits do not change.
Traffic.
Pedestrians cross the road as needed, ignoring the traffic lights. Fast drivers who give the car even more gas on white lines. A race of «Who is the fastest» between pedestrians and cars, when the traffic lights give the right to both sides to cross the street at the same time.
Tone of voice.
Shouting everywhere. Men and women shout at the same time. Shouting parents who criticize or spoil their children.
Cafes
In small towns, cafes are crowded only with young men and boys.
Tips
Persistence in reminding everyone. Groups of observers gather around one or two workers digging a canal and tell them how deep and wide the canal should be.
Breakfast
Albanians like to have pie and buttermilk for breakfast.
Cooking
Albanians not only like to eat meat, but entrails are also very popular… calf brains, liver, kidneys. (why eat that?!)
Business meetings.
Popular places for business meetings are cafes and restaurants.
Serving the table
Albanians argue about who should pay for a shared meal. Everyone wants to do it.
Couples
Lovers and married couples walk holding hands.
Men kissing
Men kiss each other on the cheek when they meet.