With pristine white-sand beaches and azure waters, this European destination has been dubbed an affordable Maldives alternative by a flight attendant
This beautiful European destination has been likened to the Maldives (Image: Getty Images)
Everyone’s heard of the Maldives, but there’s a budget-friendly alternative that’s just as beautiful, and a flight attendant couldn’t recommend it more.
The Maldives is perhaps one of the most well-known destinations, with luxurious island resorts, ocean villas, azure waters, stretches of pristine sand shores and an abundance of tropical sea life. Yet a getaway to the islands can come with a hefty price tag, in addition to a long-haul flight of around eight hours from the UK.
While it’s undeniably striking, there’s a European destination just three hours from London that Adam Hodge, 35, who has worked as Wizz Air cabin crew for eight years, said starkly resembles the Maldives. What’s more, Wizz Air offers flights to its capital from just £19.99, so you won’t need to fork out thousands for a slice of paradise.
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Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, Adam, who hails from Newcastle but is based at Luton Airport, said: “Albania has similarities to the Maldives, especially with its beachy vibes, lovely sun loungers, and its aquamarine waters. If you want to do a city break, it’s brilliant, or if you want to do a beach getaway along the coast, and towards the top, you have the European destination alternative to the Maldives.”
The Albanian coastline stretches along the Adriatic and Ionian seas, with some of the most beautiful beaches found along the Albanian Riviera in the south. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and unspoilt white-sand beaches, they have been hailed among the most beautiful in Europe, with the Ksamil Islands being a notable highlight.
Dhërmi and Jale Beach are another standout spot for those looking to soak up the rays on the beach, with the addition of beach parties and vibrant bars. But it’s not just the south coast; the northern shores offer a quieter alternative, with stunning beaches nestled among bays and hidden coves.
Having spent almost 10 years flying to various destinations, Adam has been able to explore some of the lesser-known holiday spots, with Wizz Air operating more than 750 routes across Europe, Africa and the Middle East. And Albania, the uncrowded location away from other Mediterranean hotspots, remains high on his list of places to visit.
Adam said: “Albania is definitely one of my favourite destinations, and I’d say that it’s one to watch out for. Plus, it’s good to try somewhere lesser-known.
“It’s got everything which is great, and it’s very good value for money. Some of the destinations we fly to are not using the euro currency, so actually you do get a little bit more value for money with the destinations out of the euro currency as well, when it comes to eating out, drinks and destination activity trips.”
One particular destination in Albania that Adam recommends is Tiranë, also known as Tirana, which he said is “very up-and-coming”. Adam noted: “It not only has the city aspect of it, but nearby, it also has the beaches and coastal areas, so it has the best of both worlds.”
He added that Albania is “somewhere a bit different that people might not necessarily realise is out there”, and noted that its appeal is only going to grow. “We fly to Albania four times a day from London Luton, which tells you that the destination is becoming popular.”
Aside from the affordable Wizz Air flights from London to Albania, you won’t need to spend much once you’ve landed, either. Albania remains one of Europe’s most budget-friendly destinations, with reasonable accommodation, dining, and transport options.
For those looking to enjoy “pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds”, Wizz Air suggests visiting in spring or autumn, while the summer months see “peak beach season” with temperatures of up to 30C. But the country is also ideal for a winter getaway, with cities to explore and diverse landscapes to hike through.
For more information about Wizz Air flights or to book your next trip, visit their website.
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