Preparation file

Preparing for Shkodra

Albania is outside Schengen and runs largely on cash. The cities are changing fast and people are eager to help a visitor. What follows applies across the whole country.

Last updated: 2026-08

Audio summaryA spoken run-through of the intro and section summaries

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Everyday etiquette

All of Albania

Hospitality is strong and an offer is not really refusable. Mosques and churches expect covered clothing; different faiths live side by side here and that is ordinary.

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Money and cards

All of Albania

The currency is the Albanian lek. Cards work in hotels and larger businesses; most daily spending runs on cash. Always carry some.

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Practical notes

All of Albania

Sockets are type C/F at 230 V. Tap water is not recommended for drinking and bottled water is everywhere. Pharmacies are marked "FARMACI".

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In an emergency

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Emergency call: 112One number for police, ambulance and fire. It works across the region and follows the same standard as in Türkiye.
Reporting a theft: A report at a police stationAn insurance claim does not move without this formal document. On a group tour, do it with your tour leader.
Pharmacy: FARMACILarger cities have one open at night; the rota is posted at the door.
Lost passport: Your country's missionReport the loss to the police first, then apply to your mission. On a group tour, tell your tour leader immediately.

Checklists

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Phrases worth knowing

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