Albania goes Global
Do you know where Albania is? The country just north of Greece, neighbouring Montenegro and a mere 45 miles from Italy across the stunning Adriatic Sea to the west.
Have you been to or considered visiting Greece, Italy or Montenegro? Most likely so.
Have you been to or considered Albania? Most likely not.
But why? Now is time to take Albania seriously as it spreads its wings in Europe and indeed the world.
Known to its people as Shqiperia, Albania covers 28,748 square kilometres, fitting into the UK almost 9 times, or put another way, a bit smaller than Scotland.
The population has undeniably been in decline in recent years due to economic pressures post communism. Figures show that in 2007 the population was sitting at about 3.5 million, in 2009 it dropped to 3.1 million and is currently estimated at just under 3 million.
This decline, perhaps seen as negative by some, could spell good news for the Balkan nation as the Diasporas of Albania, spread far around the globe, are known for sending financial support back to their families and in turn assisting the ongoing growth of GDP.
And it is the strength of the Albanian Diasporas which reinforces its global outlook. Albania is extremely keen to welcome foreign travellers and indeed FDI to its shores allowing visa free travel for many nationalities. This year has already seen Albania give visa free visits to Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Russian, China and most recently Taiwan.
In the same spirit the EU lifted visa requirements for Albanians travelling to the 27 members states for periods of up to 90 days last December, a positive step towards expected EU accession in 2014.
Ravin Maharajah, experienced property developer and partner of the 5* Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa in Albania, comments:
“Opening the borders between Albania and the world is very powerful statement to both the citizens of this Balkan land and its visitors. It also spells promising news for potential property investors as interest in Albanian real estate comes not only from the domestic market but also neighbouring Kosovo, Macedonia, Scandinavia, the UK and Middle East and having free and easy access to your second home is paramount.”
Investors in the Resort can purchase studios, one or two bedroom apartments or a range of villas from €29,000 each with sea views. Buyers can use their property themselves or rent out to earn healthy revenues from the increasing numbers of tourists that visit the region each year.
For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on +44 (0)845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.