Holiday Heroes: Discover Albania through the eyes of a local
Meet Elton Caushi, who is helping shape the future of responsible travel in Albania. He shares his love of the country and how to visit more sustainably.
Elton is co-founder of Albanian Trip, a tour operator based in the capital Tirana that designs bespoke holidays around Albania, the Balkans and the Mediterranean. Selected by Condé Naste Traveler as one of the best tour operators in the world, they're committed to responsible tourism and making sure that their tours support local economies and promote environmental sustainability.
Elton's passion for tourism stems from his own personal history, growing up in a country where travel was once forbidden. For him, tourism is more than just a business – it's a way to reconnect Albania with the wider world while preserving its heritage. Find out about the work he's been doing and why he thinks Albania is the perfect place to visit for your next holiday.
Why travel to Albania?
"Because it's so diverse. Because it's still preserved." Albania retains many aspects of its heritage that have vanished elsewhere in Europe. Its wonderfully preserved natural and cultural landscapes give a real insight into the country's history that you might not get in other well-trodden destinations. Your trip could take you hiking through the Albanian Alps towards the ethereal Blue Eye, exploring UNESCO-listed cities like Gjirokastra or seeking out perfect beaches along the Albanian Riviera. It's perfect for pretty much any kind of holiday.
Albania also offers a unique perspective on freedom and privilege. Hoxha's communist dictatorship fell over 30 years ago, turning Albania into one of the most isolated and secretive countries in the world. Elton believes learning about the dictatorship will help visitors appreciate the comforts they often take for granted. "It will help them understand how lucky they have been to be free, to consume, to have all these amazing goods." The House of Leaves, a museum in the former headquarters of Hoxha's secret police, and Bunk'art 1 and 2 in Tirana are must-visits. They offer an eye-opening insight into this turbulent part of the country's history.
Overcoming challenges in sustainable travel
Running a sustainable travel business in Albania comes with its own unique challenges. "We are trying to grow a business, and it's not easy. We don't get much help from anyone, so everything we have grown and built has been by our own forces."
Encouraging fellow Albanians to embrace sustainability has been an ongoing struggle. After years of restrictions, people are eager to embrace their hard-fought freedom, but Elton worries that this could lead to overconsumption. "Many of us have lost so much time, and now that we have the freedom to do it, we love to consume. We just want to modernise and rush into a new consuming society, but the world is going in a different direction." Educating locals about the value of traditional, eco-friendly practices is a critical part of Elton's mission.
Elton envisions Albania as a leading sustainable travel destination. He believes that the key to achieving this lies in looking to the past. "We don't need to do much – just look back at how our grandparents used to do things. And I believe that's very close to full sustainability." By preserving traditions, he believes Albania can set itself apart from other European destinations and attract travellers seeking authentic and environmentally conscious experiences.
Top tips for visiting Albania more sustainably
"Try to look at the locals. Try to visit outside of peak season. Consume local goods. Insist on local food, local initiatives, and local accommodation – please try to do this.
Of course, big hotels are here now, and they are very comfortable – it's what you're used to. But remember, that money doesn't go towards growing Albanian society. So please try to help us with that."
Elton Caushi's dedication to sustainable tourism makes him a true Holiday Hero. His work shows that travel can be a force for good when approached with care and respect for both people and the planet. By making conscious choices, visitors can help ensure that tourism benefits local communities while reducing their environmental impact.
Elton's work with the Travel Foundation
Elton has found working with the Travel Foundation to be a great source of inspiration when it comes to planning more sustainable tours in Albania. The Travel Foundation support communities that rely on tourism for their livelihoods. Their work helps preserve the natural environment, historic landmarks and identity of the destination. "All the friends at the Travel Foundation have always been supporting us, always nearby. They have introduced us to many initiatives, and it's always been eye-opening."
Holiday Extras are proud of the partnership we have with the Travel Foundation and all that they do to support sustainable tourism around the world. Find out more about their work, and consider making a donation to help protect the destinations you love and the people who make holidays happen.
Who are the Travel Foundation?
Learn all about how the Travel Foundation is maximising the positive impact tourism has on the world.
Find out more...Watch the full video interview with Elton
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