• Albania jumps 1.7 points on 2014 Index of Economic Freedom
• FDI Net Inflow of $1,369,659,000 into Albania in 2011 (IMF)
• London-based investment company, Charles Street Securities LLP, backing first 5* resort in Albania, Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Albania, the emerging Balkan nation headed by Prime Minister Edi Rama, is back on the agenda as the country focuses on building a strong economy.

Speaking at the recent ‘Albania Calls’ business forum at the Austrian Chamber of Economy, Mr Rama expressed how important foreign investment into the country was and how much of a priority he and his government were making it, saying,

“This is a quite peculiar moment for our country, a moment when we start turning things around, when we fully employ our economic potential, when we really free up our markets to investors.”

This collaborative approach is one that is central to the minds of the modern Albanian government who have realised the key role of foreign relations to the success of the previously communist country. And this revolutionary approach is having a positive effect.

The 2014 Index of Economic Freedom, that uses 10 factors covering Rule of Law, Limited Government, Regulatory Efficiency and Open Markets to determine the ‘economic freedom’ of a country, has revealed that Albania scored 66.9 on a scale of 1 – 100, an increase of 1.7 points on the previous year’s Index, ranking it 25^th of Europe’s 43 countries.

Highlighting improvements that include structural reforms of, amongst other things, competitive flat rate taxes and trade reforms, and with a score that is also above average in the worldwide ranking, the Index notes a 17-point increase for Albania in the past 20 years, proving that Edi Rama’s efforts are paying dividends for the Albanian economy.

This sense of increasing economic stability and a positive forward-thinking stance has had a knock-on effect for those looking to invest their monies in the growing Balkan country. Instilling a sense of confidence and optimism with regards to growth potential in Albania, this has been reflected in the numbers following through financially.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has shown that FDI Net Inflows reached an impressive figure of $1,369,659,000 in 2011, their highest ever value, up from a mere $325,138,300 in 2006, a major increase of $1,044,520,700 in foreign monies invested in Albania in just 5 years.

Taking advantage of the many benefits of investing in Albania from outside of the country – including its wealth of natural resources, excellent location that offers great potential, no governmental restrictions to investment and EU candidacy having been granted in advance of an expected joining of the EU in coming years – increasing numbers of overseas companies and individuals are looking to spend their hard-earned cash on Albanian shores.

One such foreign investor is Charles Street Securities LLP, a London-based investment company founded in 1984 by Managing Partner and Chief Executive Gerard Mizrahi. Having seen the real investment potential in the Albanian market, CSS LLP are backing the development of the country’s first high-end resort, Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa, situated close to the capital Tirana on the stunning Adriatic coast.

Mizrahi explains why CSS LLP were keen to get behind such an exciting and ground-breaking project,

“We’re proud to have invested in the emerging market of Albania. Forming an important part of our portfolio, it is clear that there is much room for growth when getting in at an early stage in a market such as this. We are sure that our investment in Albania is a wise one and look forward to a prosperous future.”

The financial backers of Lalzit Bay Resort are in good company. Albania’s Deputy Minister of Energy and Industry, Dorian Ducka, recently announced that the country is anticipating Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) to invest a breathtaking 1 billion Euros of direct foreign investment, making Albania a key player in the movement of natural gas to the Western Balkans.

And this positive movement is set to continue, with Rama having big plans for the continued development of FDI and the future of Albania in general. One such plan that will feature heavily is the expected introduction of an Investment Council that will work directly with those putting money into Albania, providing structure and encouraging collaboration.

Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa offers affordable property options for those looking to invest in Albania. The luxurious resort provides five star facilities, including a beach club and tennis courts, boutique shops, top restaurants and bars.

Properties range from 1 or 2 bedroom apartments to 3 or 4 bedroom villas, boasting spacious indoor and outdoor space, optional private swimming pools and the very best fixtures and fittings, all inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Prices range from €35,000 to €360,000.

With investors such as Charles Street Securities LLP already a part of this improving picture through Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa, the future is looking bright for Albania and for those who have followed suit with their money.

For more information about Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa call +44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com 

It may not seem to be the natural leap from the South-West city of Bristol, England’s 6^th most populous city, with its bustling crowds of shoppers and famous Brunel-designed Clifton Suspension Bridge, but the undiscovered Albanian coastline, with its golden sands and azure waters, is proving to have a very special magnetic draw for one Bristolian.

Neil Harper, a Business Analyst from the Somerset city, has bought a two bedroom apartment at Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, after falling for Albania when he visited earlier this summer. The 58-year-old used a combination of savings and pension funds to buy his dream property and explains that the country has a multitude of charms that drew him in,

“The Albanian countryside provides a good mix of mountains, farmland and tremendous beaches and this was a key buying influence for me. Having visited Albania, I also found the people to be undoubtedly friendly and eager to make sure your visit is enjoyable which was wonderfully refreshing. Not only this but the weather in the summer is hot, though not unbearably so, and the beaches and Adriatic Sea are extensive so you can really make the most of your time.”

Just 45 miles across the water from Italy and bordered by the popular tourist hotspots of Greece and Montenegro, the comparison of Albania to its neighbours is an interesting one and one that is not lost on Neil. Recognising that Albania is one of the few underdeveloped countries in relation to mainstream tourism, Neil saw the potential in buying in a market where the cost of home ownership is relatively low and the cost of living approximately half that of neighbouring countries.

He explains that in light of this he purchased his property primarily as an investment, whilst also hoping to use it himself too,

“When buying my apartment I was certainly attracted by the potential within the Albanian property market. Tourism in the country is up 5% year on year and flights into the capital, Tirana, are already available from most European countries, with this coverage hopefully continuing to expand as the popularity of Albania as a holiday destination grows. The country has also recently been granted EU accession status which should provide further benefit in both commercial terms and in boosting tourism.”

And Neil is right to spot the growth in tourism. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama recently noted a rise of 14% in the number of tourists visiting the country this year and with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) revealing in their ‘Travel & Tourism Economic Impact 2014’ report that the direct contribution of travel and tourism to the country’s GDP is scheduled to rise by 5.5% in 2014 and by 5.6% each year until 2024, it is clear that now is the ideal time to invest in a property in this corner of the Balkans.

Given these conditions, and when compared to the financial investment options currently available in the UK, Neil was encouraged by the monetary gains predicted when buying a property at Lalzit Bay. He explains how he plans to use the property as a source of income,

“With typical UK savings gross interest rates of below 2% I have estimated a gross return of circa 8% from the investment in Albania assuming it is let for only the main three summer months. I am making an assumption of 0% growth but I am hoping for a decent rise in the value of the property which, given the current market conditions, seems to be achievable.”

On first glance a somewhat unusual choice as a location to consider when buying an overseas property, it is perhaps easy to see why Neil’s decision was met with initial surprise on the part of his loved ones, yet, as he explains, they soon came round to the idea,

“I think my family and friends were surprised when I said I’d chosen Albania as the country in which to buy, I think because until recently it had not been heavily promoted as a holiday destination. However, when I explained the reasoning for my decision and the potential growth prospects (both in terms of my investment and the country as a whole) they soon saw the sense in what I am doing and being able to show them the development updates means that they are all impressed by what they have seen.

“Although my children are all grown up I have no doubt they will all soon be after a week or two in the sun when my apartment is ready!”

Just 30 minutes from the international airport of Tirana, Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa boasts a breathtaking beachfront location on beautiful golden sands with stunning views of the Dajti mountain range behind. A low-rise five-star development with a host of excellent facilities – from a beach club and tennis courts to boutique shops and top restaurants and bars – the resort offers a range of property options, all built to the highest of standards.

One or two bed apartments are available, like the one purchased by Neil, or three or four bed villas, boasting spacious indoor and outdoor space, optional private swimming pools and the very best fixtures and fittings, all inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Prices range from €35,000 to €360,000.

As someone who has successfully made a purchase of one such property, Neil is keen to offer a helping hand to anyone else looking to do the same. He concludes,

“The only advice I can give potential buyers of property abroad is to do extensive research. Look at any feedback by other purchasers, make a list of all questions you may have and get them answered before you commit, engage an independent English-speaking solicitor, check that the developers are financially secure, pay in stages and just be confident in your own mind that you are making the right choice before you pay any money. Look at it as if you were buying your own home in the UK. This is what I did with my property at Lalzit Bay and I am more than happy with the result.”

For more information about Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa call +44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com

• 27.9% increase in tourists visiting “Virgin California” (Albania) from 2011 to 2012 (UN World Tourism Organization Report 2014)
• Increase of 3.6% in tourists to Europe in same period (UN World Tourism Organization Report 2014)
• Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa offering range of luxury properties on Albanian coast

It was the German politician Franz Josef Strauss who claimed the South-Eastern European country of Albania to be like “Virgin California” when he visited in 1984, in awe of its natural beauty and untapped potential. Now, exactly thirty years on, it has been revealed that Strauss’ claims were true to the mark, with the release of new figures revealing the growth of Albania as a hot tourist destination.

The UN World Tourism Organization Report 2014 shows an increase of 12.6% in the number of visitors to Albanian shores from 2010 to 2011 (the latest official UN data available, from 2,191,000 to 2,468,000) which, when compared to growth in visitors across Europe of just 6.4% in the same period, is undeniably notable. Yet, more recent figures are even more impressive.

The year of 2012 saw 3,156,000 international tourist arrivals for Albania, an outstanding increase of 27.9% from 2011, set within the context of a mere 3.6% growth in visitors throughout Europe in general terms during the same period, proving that with the advancement of the years comes the advancement of Albania’s tourist industry.

And it is not difficult to see what is drawing the attentions of these overseas visitors. Blessed with over 200 days of sunshine annually, Albania is a year-round destination that boasts the wild beauty of striking mountain ranges, golden beaches with azure waters, and bustlingly vibrant city life. Yet Albania is also just 45 miles across the waters from Italy, has a low cost of living and is only a 2 and a half hour direct flight from the UK.

With thousands more people discovering Albania’s charms year-on-year, there is also a marked increase in the numbers of people looking to buy property within the country, as either a base to explore Albania’s wonders themselves or from an investment standpoint – or both.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa explains,

“Albania has all the charms of other enduringly popular Mediterranean destinations, yet is more untouched and far better value. It is fantastic that tourism has taken a marked upward turn in recent years as this latest UN Report reveals, with increasing numbers of visitors discovering this hidden gem of Europe. I would say that now is certainly the time to take advantage of that growth and future potential by investing in property in the country.”

Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa is situated on the beautiful Albanian coast, just 30 minutes from the international airport of Tirana, and features a host of 5 star facilities including a beach club, selection of top restaurants and bars, tennis courts and boutique shops.

With a nod to Franz Josef Strauss’ claims, the resort is today bringing the flavour of “Virgin California” to the luxurious properties of Lalzit Bay, with villas designed to make the very most of the warm climate and inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Each boast spacious indoor and outdoor living, optional private swimming pools and the very best fixtures and fittings.

1 or 2 bedroom apartments to 3 or 4 bedroom villas are available, with properties ranging from €35,000 to €360,000.

For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa on +44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.

• Albania’s oil industry growing amidst investment from industry giants
• Excellent prospects for Albanian property market, with rental and sales of homes to oil workers
• 5-star Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa offers high-end properties from as little as €35,000

When thinking of the world’s prevalent producers of crude oil, countries such as the US, Russia and Saudi Arabia may well spring to mind as standout players in a market worth billions of dollars. Yet there is one country, not necessarily synonymous with oil production but increasingly taking its place in a highly competitive market, which is progressively pushing itself to the fore – Albania.

Peer beneath the surface of this South-Eastern European country and it becomes clear that natural beauty is not the only resource that this Balkan gem is rich in. And this is not new news. The Romans began mining the plains of Albania for bitumen for their ships around 2,000 years ago and with the dawn of the 20^th century came the more profitable infiltration by external companies, bringing with them increasingly mechanised production and generating impressive yields from this ‘black gold’.

Interest over the years in this field was felt from Italy, the then Soviet Union and China, reaching a peak of almost 43,000 barrels a day produced, totalling 2.2 million tonnes each year. However, Albanian oil production started to decline substantially with the 1990s fall of communism dissolving the once profitable industry.

This was until the last decade when companies from outside of Albania begun to show an interest in its natural resources. Canadian firm Bankers Petroleum’s investment from 2004 has made them a major player in Albania, home to the biggest European onshore oil field, currently producing 19,300 barrels a day.

Part of the wider region that encompasses Montenegro, Croatia and South-Western Greece, many are claiming that Albania is part of a ‘new oil frontier’ that, in recent years, has been party to exploratory and mining work from companies including Albpetrol and Stream Oil and Gas and also gaining interest from industry giants such as Shell, in partnership with Petromanas.

This growing success – and expanding reserves of the oil companies – not only has a knock-on effect for the Albanian economy, as well as strengthening the country politically, it also reverberates within other areas of Albania’s finances.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa explains,

“The relatively recent development of the oil industry in Albania is certainly putting the country on the map as a serious player in the European energy market and the effects of this positivity are also being felt within the prospects of the property market. At Lalzit Bay, we have already had enquiries from British, Canadian and Russian buyers who work for corporations that are investing in Albania and have subsequently sold properties to oil workers. I would say the oil effect is definitely beginning to rub off on the property market.”

Savvy investors are beginning to recognise the potential gains in the rental of homes to oil workers vacationing on the stunning Adriatic coast, with low investment levels and high returns on the cards, and the affluent workers themselves are also seeing the benefits of investing their hard-earned monies in a rising Albanian property market too.

There are some excellent – and affordable – developments in the offing in which to do this. One stand-out resort is Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa, situated 30 minutes from the capital Tirana’s airport, the development boasts a beautiful private sandy beach and a range of 5-star facilities, including a range of first-class restaurants and bars, boutique shops, swimming pool, tennis courts and a beach club.

Properties range from 1 or 2 bedroom apartments to 3 or 4 bedroom villas with optional private pools, inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. All are built at low density and to the highest of standards. Prices start from €35,000 and range to €360,000.

For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa on +44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com

• Albanian government launch ‘Branding Albania’ competition to promote country as a top tourist destination
• StrawberryFrog announced as winning agency with their ‘Go Your Own Way’ campaign
• Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa destination of choice, working hard to dispel myths surrounding Albania and host top journalists

For many decades, Albania was not considered a tourist destination. Although situated just 45 miles from the eternally-popular coast of Italy, this South-Eastern European country was considered a world away. With a recent history peppered with the restrictions that come from living under communist rule, travel to Albania has been limited in recent years and its shores have remained largely undiscovered by the wider world.

General opinion of the country wasn’t high: it was a world of unknown, looked upon somewhat negatively and not considered a to-visit destination. Yet it is clear that this tide is now turning.

In April this year, the Albanian government launched ‘Branding Albania’, a national competition that would see organisations competing to come up with a winning logo, slogan and, importantly, a strategy for the future, to promote the country to a wider audience and place it firmly and confidently on a worldwide stage,

“This is a project that will change the image of our country in a radical way, in a way that will reflect the energy and vitality of our people, the great potential our country has to develop, Albanians’ hospitality, our rich culture and extraordinary historical heritage, our amazing places and landscapes… Our intent is to launch a new image of Albania and its touristic potential: Albania as a gateway for foreign investments in the Balkans, Albania as a factor of stability, security and peace in the region, Albania as a European country.”

This positive move by the country’s leadership for “Next Generation Albania” showed recognition of the untapped potential and the importance of tourism to Albania’s future, a bold move that received a great response. Eventual winners of the competition were StrawberryFrog, becoming Albania’s newly appointed global creative agency, tasked with the job of building the brand.

Scott Goodson, Founder of StrawberryFrog, expresses their delight at being chosen,

“We are excited to be working with the government and people of Albania to help build its brand and in the process propel it to the forefront destination among the world’s travellers and those seeking the world’s most extraordinary, most pristine, most authentic European destinations. There is nothing else like Albania. As one of the world’s most respected agencies, we are in the process of finalizing a disruptive strategy and brilliant creative work that will help Albania be recognized for all the wonderful and inspiring experiences.”

As StrawberryFrog have expressed, there is a large amount of untapped potential within Albania’s previously-veiled treasures, and from a rich history to unspoilt beaches to expansive mountains, Albania’s untamed beauty is beginning to turn heads.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, agrees,

“Albania truly deserves the title of ‘the hidden gem of the Adriatic’, with so much to offer visitors and investors alike. However the rebranding of the country by StrawberryFrog marks an exciting time in developing the country’s currently greatly untapped potential and the agency’s winning slogan of ‘Go Your Own Way’ encapsulates the concept of the many and varied reasons people will fall in love with Albania if they visit. As part of the movement to overthrow common misconceptions about modern day Albania, through developing the country’s first high-end resort, I am proud to say that the future is certainly bright for this beautiful country.”

Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa has actively worked over recent years to dispel the myths surrounding Albania and open the eyes of the wider world to the country’s bounteous charms. Hosting national and international journalists, inviting them to see ‘behind the iron curtain’ and featuring in a wide variety of media, the development has made considerable progress.

Helped by the recent announcement that Albania has been granted EU candidacy, following their original request to join the European Union in 2009, interest is today being piqued in holiday homes and investment properties in the country, with the 5 star Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa being top of the wishlist.

Situated just 30 minutes from Tirana’s airport on a beautiful sandy beach, Lalzit Bay offers a range of 1 or 2 bedroom apartments and 3 or 4 bedroom villas with private pools, inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Properties are built at low density and to the highest of standards, and all have access to first-class facilities, including a beach club, range of top restaurants and bars, tennis courts and boutique shops.

Prices range from €35,000 to €360,000. For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa on +44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.

• Adria Airways to launch routes connecting Tirana, Albania with Paris and Brussels
• Slovenian-Albanian relations strengthen with meeting between country ministers
• Albanian Visitor Exports up 6.4% in 2014, heralding tourism growth (World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) ‘Travel & Tourism Economic Impact 2014’ report)

Increasing numbers of visitors are likely to be setting their sights on the hidden gem of Albania from next year following the announcement that accessibility will be further improved from key European destinations.

Slovenian national carrier, Adria Airways, recently announced plans to expand its flight plan with the addition of new routes from 2015 that will connect the capital of Tirana with the popular, and populous, north European capital cities of Paris and Brussels.

The announcement comes as part of the company’s wider strategy to continue the expansion of routes to and from the Albanian destination that is increasingly becoming top of many to-visit lists. This spring already saw Adria Airways launching direct flights linking Tirana with Frankfurt, making the very most of its relatively recent launch of a base in the Albanian capital.

And this is not the only way in which Slovenia-Albania relations are looking to strengthen in the near future. Just this month Albanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ditmir Bushati, met with Karl Erjavec, his Slovenian equivalent, to discuss ways to develop economic cooperation between the two European countries. As part of the visit Erjavec was heard to express that the relationship between the two countries was flourishing, also backing Albania’s EU accession plans.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, reiterates this view,

“Albania has worked really hard as a nation to meet the conditions for accession into the EU and it is hoped to be firmly on the cards for this wonderful Balkan nation, especially following the news of EU candidacy having been confirmed. Becoming part of the EU will not only help with the country’s economy as a whole, it is sure to also draw more and more people to Albania’s sun-drenched shores to discover the wealth of natural treasures the country has to offer: from unspoilt beaches with golden sands and azure waters, to breathtaking mountain ranges and a fascinating history just waiting to be discovered, there is something for every visitor.”

It certainly seems that increasing numbers are visiting the picturesque country that sits just 45 miles across the waters from Italian shores. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) ‘Travel & Tourism Economic Impact 2014’ report for Albania showed that spending within the country by international tourists (known as Visitor Exports) is forecast to grow by 6.3% in 2014, showing that tourism is becoming an increasingly important sector within the country.

This positivity is not set to be a flash in the pan either with the report also predicting growth in Visitor Exports of 5.6% annually until 2024, heralding a prosperous future for Albania, one which many are beginning to realise they too can take their part in. Investing in property in the country is a key way that is allowing people to make the most of the climate of growth, whilst also taking advantage of the beauty of Albania for themselves.

The luxurious Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa is a 5-star resort just 30 minutes from Tirana’s airport, capitalising on the growing connecting routes, and offering the spectacular combination of a stunning location and first-class facilities. Situated on a beautiful sanded beach, properties are built at low density and to the highest of standards, with access to a beach club, range of top restaurants and bars, tennis courts and boutique shops.

Ranging from 1 or 2 bedroom apartments to 3 or 4 bedroom villas with private pools, properties are inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Prices range from £35,000 to £290,000. For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on + 44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.

Today it was announced by the European Union that Albania has been granted EU candidacy, an extremely positive sign for the future of this south-eastern European country.

Announced on Twitter by EU Enlargement Commissioner, Stefan Fuele, following a meeting in Luxembourg, the newly appointed status sets Albania on the road to full EU membership in the coming years. The announcement also recognises the hard work put in by the Albanian government, newly elected in September, to reach this point, as recognised by Fuele,

“Albania congratulations on candidate status just agreed by Ministers: acknowledgement of reform efforts, encouragement for more.”

Such efforts continue to establish the country as a major player in the region, in line with its Balkan brothers of Croatia and Bulgaria who have already been granted EU membership, and along with Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia who have also been granted candidacy.

Providing a sense of reassurance that Albania will continue to surge forward in terms of its economy, political stability and fight against crime and corruption, today’s announcement is good news for residents and tourists alike.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa explains,

“What fantastic news that Albania has today been officially recognised as a candidate for the EU! It does, however, come as no surprise to me as there have been prodigious efforts made in recent times to achieve this longed-for goal, with the country making great leaps forward.

“This announcement will certainly pave the way for a bright future for beautiful Albania, bringing much-deserved recognition within the wider European community and encouraging more people to discover all that this hidden gem has to offer.”

2014 was already predicted to see an increase of 5.5% in the direct contribution of travel and tourism to Albania’s GDP (according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s ‘Travel & Tourism Economic Impact’ report for the country) and the news of candidacy to the European Union can only add to this growth further still. This, in turn, heralds an optimistic future for the Balkan country, of prosperity and popularity, as a to-visit destination.

The reassurance that today’s announcement gives will also inspire erudite buyers to see that now is the time to invest in Albania’s property market. The luxurious Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa offers a stand-out Albanian property option, with 5-star facilities and homes built by award-winning architects, whilst also keeping in line with Albania’s affordability.

A range of 1 or 2 bedroom apartments and 3 or 4 bedroom villas with private pools are available, with properties inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Prices range from £35,000 to £290,000. For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on + 44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.

• The Balkans tipped to be a hot market for property investment in 2014 (Savills Prime Residential Retreats report)
• Typical 4 bedroom property in Croatia is €750,000 (Savills)
• Whilst 4 bedroom luxury Villa Sophia in neighbour Albania is available for third of the price, €232,600

In recent years the Balkans, an expansive region of South-eastern Europe, has become a firm favourite for those looking for a wise investment opportunity, with property affordable, climate favourable and scenery breathtakingly beautiful.

Yet it is no secret that the crisis in the Eurozone hit the Balkans hard, with Croatia one country affected by the decline of the Euro. However with the dawn of 2014, the market has begun to show important signs of improvement. The Prime Residential Retreats report by Savills has shown that property prices in the country have shown stability in the previous year, with a 1% rise in the value of coastal apartments being recorded in January 2014 when compared to figures of 2013.

This growth registers positive reverberations in the region’s property markets, marking signs that the Balkans will be hot news in 2014. This positive outlook does not only cover the ‘traditional’ investment options of Croatia and Montenegro, for example, interested eyes are now beginning to look towards Balkan neighbour Albania too and resorts such as Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa.

Albania is an alternative option for those looking to invest in the Balkans and capitalise not only on the ongoing up-turn in the property market in the region but also to take advantage of the untamed beauty and stunning scenery of the surroundings for themselves.

With all the benefits that other Balkan countries such as Croatia have become synonymous with – historic charm, excellent year-round climate, easy access via short, regular, direct flights, and a low cost of living – yet at a fraction of the price, taking a step across the Albanian border when looking for a property can pay real dividends.

With the Albanian Prime Minister, Edi Rama, recently expressing his optimism in the country’s economy following on from positive statistics from The Bank of Albania, saying “it lays the basis for real change we expect in the future”, prospects looks bright for Albania’s property market.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania´s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa explains more,

“Albania is a truly enchanting country with much to offer tourists and investors alike: deserted beaches and wild mountains, vibrant cities, over 200 days of sunshine a year, and a low cost of living just a few of the country’s attributes.

“Somewhat untapped currently, yet growing in popularity for those looking to make a savvy investment, Albania’s property industry is certainly on the up. And with this wealth of appealing features, combined with EU accession on the cards for 2015, it is no surprise that Albania is looking increasingly attractive to potential investors. In fact 25% of all buyers in Lalzit Bay Resort are from the UK compared to just 15% a year ago, proving that Albania is becoming more and more attractive to UK investors.”

With property notably more affordable than nearby Croatia, where a typical 4-bed property is €750,000 (according to Savills World Research), unearthing a property gem is easy in Albania.

The 4-bed, 2-bathroom Villa Sophia at Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa is priced at just €232,600 and offers spacious indoor and outdoor living, inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. With a sea view, private garden and parking, as well as the option of a private swimming pool, this family villa has much to offer.

As part of the 5 star Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa, where properties are designed by award-winning architects, the resort boasts ranging grounds where properties are built at low density. There are also a wide array of facilities available such as a beach club, tennis courts, boutique shops and a range of carefully selected restaurants and bars.

For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on + 44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.

• New British Airways summer schedule extends flights five times a week from Gatwick to Tirana
• Growing tourism figures push talks for another new Albanian airport (Albanian Minister of Transport and Infrastructure)
• Interest from international property investors and second home buyers steadily increasing (Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa)

Albania’s tourism market is set to fly high this year with the UK’s national flag carrier British Airways increasing the frequency of flights between London and the capital, Tirana.

The introduction of direct flights from Gatwick five times a week (up from the current thrice weekly flights) is thought to be due to an increase in passengers wanting to explore the increasingly popular Balkan country both for short-break holidays and as a second home location.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s leading Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa comments,

“The future is looking bright for Albania. With an increasing number of tourists visiting each year combined with the new BA flights, the country looks set to explode as a tourist destination. One of Albania’s biggest attractions – aside from its cultural and historical charms, balmy Mediterranean climate and stunning beaches – is definitely its rock-bottom cost of living.

“Added to that is an ever-improving infrastructure. Indeed, Albanian Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Edmond Haxhinasto suggested recently that growing tourism figures are one of the key factors behind plans for a new airport. Tirana International Airport is currently Albania´s only international airport so it is important to construct another airport in the south of Albania in order to further realise tourism potential across the whole country.

“As an EU potential candidate country, Albania shows positive signs of following other Southern European countries such as Croatia and Montenegro in terms of their infrastructure and tourism development. And like their Balkan neighbours, interest from international second home buyers is also steadily increasing as people realise the superb buying opportunity in this hidden gem of a country.”

Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, a beautiful 5* beachfront development just 30 minutes from Tirana’s airport, is fast becoming one of the most anticipiated resort destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as an attractive investment choice for British and European buyers.

From as little as €35,000 for a studio, Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa provides holidaymakers with superb on-site facilities including a beach club, tennis courts and a wide choice of delicious international cuisines available in the resort’s numerous restaurants.

For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on 0845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com 

• Thomson Cruises adds Durres port to its 2015 cruise destinations
• Albania home to top travel attraction (Outside Magazine Travel Awards 2014)
• 200 million euros to be spent in Albania throughout 2014 (Macedonia tour operators)

Thomson Cruises has announced it will be expanding its destinations for 2015 with 28 exciting new destinations, including the port of Durres in Albania. The leading cruise liner has announced that it will be offering a wider choice of destinations in some of the most up and coming European locations, as well as providing guests with the flexibility to cruise and stay away as part of their holiday, with more hotels introduced to the company’s collection.

But it’s not just cruise passengers who will want to investigate the wonders of the Balkans. Following double digit growth in traveller numbers last year and thanks to the Outside Magazine Travel Awards voting the mountainous, breath-taking Via Dinarica as the best new trail in 2014 for avid trekkers, an increasing number of holiday makers will be setting their sights on Albania this year.

The stunning, 600 mile stretch through the Dinaric Alps known as the White Trail, which stitches together old routes from Slovenia to Albania, boasts  8,000-foot stegosaurus spines, fairy-tale meadows and stone guesthouses. It is typical of the incredible and largely untapped natural beauty available in Albania.

Peter Walshe,Marketing Director for  Lalzit Bay Resort &Spa comments,

“Tourism is playing an ever more prominent role in the Albanian economy. Accounting for around 11% of the nation´s GDP in 2012, tourism brought in €1.2 billion in profit in 2011. With tourist numbers rising to more than 4 million last year, it is important that Albania establishes a long-term plan to capitalise on its growing popularity.

“Indeed the recently signed cooperation agreement between the Albanian and Macedonian national tourism agencies is a really positive step and just the kind of collaborative strategy that Albania needs to implement in order to boost visitor numbers in the future.”

Travellers from neighbouring Macedonia already frequently visit Albanian coastal areas such as Lalzit Bay for their summer holidays as around 30% of Macedonia’s population is ethnic Albanian with Macedonian tour operators predicting that their visitors will spend some €200 million while holidaying in Albania during 2014.

Part of the key to Albania’s charm for both Macedonians and many other nations alike is the relatively low cost of holidaying there. The country’s paradise-like beaches, many of which are still undiscovered by mass tourism, also play a key role in attracting those ‘in the know’ for their holidays.

Edi Rama, the Albanian Prime Minister, has singled out tourism as a sector in which investments are almost certainly guaranteed to be successful. He has also emphasised importance on fuelling growth in the energy sector, agriculture and Albania’s infrastructure. A 10 year plan, currently under development, will seek to knit together these various strands in order to produce a sustainable, long-term strategy for tourism in Albania. Mountain and beach tourism are expected to feature strongly in the plan.

The tourism accommodation sector is one in particular which has already seen increasing levels of foreign direct investment. High quality, luxury projects such as the 5* Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa have been welcomed by the government as they are meeting the demand from both domestic and international holidaymakers and second property owners alike.

Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa can provide the perfect investment opportunity for as little as €35,000, offering high-specification beachfront villas and apartments surrounded by superb on-site facilities. These include a beach club, tennis courts and a wide choice of gourmet restaurants offering international cuisines.

Lalzit Bay, currently under construction, is set to become one of the most desirable resort destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as an attractive and attainable lifestyle and investment choice for those wanting a superior second home in the sun or a buy-to-let property abroad.

For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on + 44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com .