Boomers Abroad

Highlights

Albania has a long history of isolation, due not just to its geographical location and inhospitably rugged terrain, but also due to its political situation over the decades, notably the forty-seven years spent under Communist rule from 1946 until 1992. Governed democratically since that period, economic progress has been extremely slow.

A predominantly Muslim country, Albania's frontiers also contain a wealth of other ethnic and religious groups. Travelers enjoy visiting the country predominantly to experience its very distinctive culture. The Shkumbin River, which virtually bisects the country, separates speakers of the northern dialect (Gheg) from those of the southern dialect (Tosk; the official dialect).

Albania's Ionian coastline in the west is known for its untouched beaches. The country is home to some ancient classical sites, among them Berat, 70 kms from Tirana, an Ancient Greek polis and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known also as "The Town of a Thousand Windows", being graced with attractive old decorated houses with many windows, its partner city is Gjirokastra, another ancient architectural gem.

Albania's north is the area that has endowed the country with its image as a wild and bleak land of inhospitable jagged mountains and villages trapped in a time warp. Here there is wildlife a-plenty, including deer, wild boar and wolves. Thethi - named after the river on which it lies - is one of the four major national parks in Albania. The Grunas Waterfall in the park is a dramatic sight.

Tirana is a fast-developing city, shaking off its Communist past and acquiring a western feel. It is small and manageable for traversing on foot. There are cinemas, concert halls and theaters with programs of a high standard and many bars, some providing live music. Several shopping malls have sprung up. Italian shoes at bargain prices are one attraction.

Travel Types

• Cooking
• Cycling (Road/Touring)
• Dancing
• Eco Tours
• Homestay
• Language Immersion
• Native Culture Studies
• Nature Tours
• Overland Tours
• Photography
• Sports
• Tours
• Trekking
• Volunteering

Qualifications

For this program, Love Volunteer requires individuals who possess experience working with kids. This might mean teaching or simply looking after your siblings. The main thing is that you are enthusiastic, fun and responsible. If you're not sure whether you have the right experience just drop us a line and we can discuss your options. Additionally, volunteers must be at least 18 years old and have a good grasp of English.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Fees for volunteer programs in Albania start at USD 375 (Euro 270) for two weeks.

Cost Include Description:

Includes accommodation, three meals a day, an airport pick-up and drop-off (if required), orientation and 24/7 in-country support.

Credit Available

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participant. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat

Participants Travel to Albania

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Love Volunteers's Mission Statement

We are a not-for-profit organization that provides fun, rewarding, safe and affordable volunteering opportunities in developing countries around the world. Whether you're planning a week helping a local community as you travel around a country, six months learning the local language, or putting your gap year to good use, Love Volunteers has a program that will give you the best possible experience.

Year Founded

2009