Albania is unique in a number of ways. At one time it was the only officially atheist country in the world; today it claims the title to the only Islamic country in Europe. Albania went from staunchly communist to free republic in the 1990s, and the change has been for the better. On the one hand, there’s a lot more free enterprise, and on the other, religion is emerging again. Churches and mosques are back to being places of worship and are not cinemas or theatres any more. Tourism is on the upswing, and perhaps this is the best time to visit without being stampeded by fellow-tourists on your holiday.

There are plenty of reasons why Albania, though a poor nation and still suffering from years of communist rule, is an attractive destination. The country has a rich natural heritage; lovely mountains, densely forested land, and some of the loveliest blue waters you’re ever likely to see around the Mediterranean.