The newly elected socialist party has lined up British former PM, Tony Blair, to advise the government towards the ultimate goal of EU membership for Albania. A formal contract has not been drawn up, but Iit is expected that Mr Blair will advise on boosting the European integration process, attracting investment and promoting tourism.

Hot on the heels of Albania’s general election,; neighbouring country Croatia was this week granted its long awaited European membership, offering hope for its Balkan brothers. This will no doubt also translate into rising tourist numbers and provide a boost for the Albanian property market as more and more people explore this new EU member nation and its adjacent lands.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director of Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, the 5* luxury residential development located on Albania’s Adriatic coast comments:

“The election has opened the gates for Albania to become an official candidate to join the European Union, which would come as welcome news for those wishing to invest in this beautiful country, unspoilt by stampedes of tourists and boasting stunning natural landscapes with white sandy beaches and crystal clear seas.”

Indeed the race to EU membership continues. Albania applied for candidate status in 2009 and the EU Council stated in a report which was published on December 12, 2012 that Albania could achieveget candidate status by 2015 in the event that it conformed to the advices of the European Commission.

With EU accession within reach coupled with cheap and easy access from the UK and a growing economy, Albania is fast becoming a highly desirable holiday home destination.

As Peter Walshe goes on to explain,

“Unlike its Balkan peers, Albania has avoided recession. With on-going positive GDP growth as well as growing visitor numbers thanks to a wider range of promotional and  infrastructure projects, this well-kept secret of the Adriatic coast could provide the perfect property investment opportunity for those looking for a second home in Europe but without the premium price tag. And now, new low-cost carriers are starting to fly there from more and more European cities which can only be positive.”

So for those looking to be in on the secret jewel of the Balkan, why not take a look at Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa?

This resort offers a premium, exclusive product to buyers who want the benefits of villa ownership including private gardens and terraces, exclusive services, and more privacy as well as a range of facilities including private swimming pools, a BBQ area, tennis courts and superb restaurants for as little as €30,000.

For those thinking about investing in Albania look no further than the stunning apartments and villas at Lalzit Bay Resort. For more information please contact Lalzit Bay on 0845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com .