Plentiful Beaches And Friendly People Are The Best Parts Of Living In One Of Europe's Cheapest Countries

With a cost of living more than 32% less than the United States, Albania is one of the least expensive places to live and visit in Europe. This, along with its welcoming atmosphere, is fueling a boost in its tourism — and it's easy to see why. After all, the less expensive way of life and its more than 230 miles of coastline easily make this one of the best places to live in the world.

Of course, as with most places, costs depend on the exact location. However, according to reports by Numbeo, a family of four can comfortably live on $2,700 a month, excluding rent. If you're single, costs are estimated to be around $755 a month, also not including rent. And, in some areas outside of the city center, you can even find one-bedroom apartments for approximately $420 per month.

Better yet, Albania is also home to some of the cheapest beaches in Europe. With a unique location and beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea, the country has tons to offer visitors in terms of nature, culture, and adventure. It's also often considered a less-expensive — and just as beautiful — alternative to the Greek experience of the Mediterranean, which means you can still live your beachside dreams without breaking the bank.

Arguably the most popular destination in the country is the Albanian Riviera along the Ionian Sea. The crystal clear waters here have earned the area recognition as the "Maldives of Europe." Naming a best beach here is nearly impossible, since personal tastes vary, however, if we were to choose one, Ksamil comes close. Ksamil is the central beach and is covered in white sand and is perfect for those looking to swim or even kayak in the sea. Its beauty is well-known, however, and it is often packed with umbrellas and beach chairs, especially in the summer. If you do find your way to this beach within Butrint National Park, stick around for the beautiful sunsets, which provide exceptional views as the sun disappears behind the Greek island of Corfu, just a few miles away.

Dhërmi Beach, about two hours north, rests along Albania's west coast and is less crowded than Ksamil. Here the beach is covered in pebbles, which rarely deter tourists from exploring it. Restaurants and smaller cafes are ready to serve tourists along the welcoming walkway and often offer seating with magnificent views of the water and surrounding cliffs. Boats are often anchored off shore and dot the water, while water taxis are easily accessible for trips up and down the coast.

Nearby, Jale Beach offers options for both the adventurous and for those with families. This beach is a mixture of sand and pebbles and offers shallow areas with calm surf for children and those who don't want to swim in deeper, more challenging waters. Snorkeling and diving are popular here, as are jet skis and kayaks, which are readily available for rent. In the evenings, the beach transforms into a hotbed of nightlife, with clubs and bars welcoming dancing sunkissed travelers and locals alike who often join the beach fun in the summer months.

Foodies will be happy to know that Albanian food is fresh, Mediterranean cuisine. Restaurants along the coast, especially, blend Italian and Greek spices and flavors along with their own traditional offerings. Albania gives Bangkok, Thailand, the most affordable international destination with world-class cuisine, a run for its money. Albania's byrek is a pastry that is equally loved for its taste and convenience. It is very portable and filled with cheeses, meats, and more. The central city of Elbasan, especially, is known for this delicacy.

As you enjoy the delicious food of Albania and spend time at beautiful beaches for an affordable rate, you'll most likely notice the friendliness of the local people. Hospitality is a big part of the traditions here, and the welcoming feeling transcends urban and rural communities. Many Albanian natives speak English as well, in hopes of making western tourists and new residents more comfortable. Tours featuring friendly guides and beautiful attractions are plentiful throughout the country, like the Accursed Mountains in northern Albania which remind travelers of the Dolomites. 

If this all sounds good, you'll be happy to know that Albania is considered by many to be the easiest country for Americans to relocate to. American tourists can stay in the country for 365 days without a visa. All that is required is a valid passport, which makes accessing the country's historic cultural sites and experiences even more affordable. More than 40 airlines from 110 destinations fly into Tirana International Airport, considered the gateway to Albania. With all this in mind, it's no wonder this southeastern European country is a rising star on many travelers' bucket lists.