•Climate
Albania has a Mediterranean climate with each season offering distinct, yet pleasant weather. Some features of the climate vary by region: The coastal areas have a Central Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The alpine areas have a Central Continental climate with cold, snowy winters and temperate summers. The lowlands have mild winters, averaging about 7°C, and summer temperatures average 24°C. Lowland rainfall ranges from 1,000 mm to more than 1,500 mm annually, with greater rainfall in the north. Nearly 95% of rainfall occurs in the winter and rainfall in the upland mountain ranges is heavier. Despite the rain, Albanians enjoy a great deal of sunshine. The overall climate is pleasant and favors outdoor activity. On average, Albanians enjoy a great deal of sunshine, second only to Spain in average annual sunny days. The overall climate is pleasant and favors outdoor activities.
• Economy
Since the fall of Communism, the development of the Albanian economy has been fueled primarily by the service and construction industries, though tourism has recently played an increasing role in the economy and is growing rapidly.
Many people are curious to explore a country whose borders were closed to travel for many years. Given the continued development of both summer and winter resorts, people all over the world have begun to think of Albania as a tourist destination.
•Flag: Black double-headed eagle on red background
•International telephone prefix: +355
•Government: Parliamentary Democracy
•Population: 3,150,886 inhabitants
•Area: 28,748 km2
•Capital city: Tirana
•Language: Albanian
•Currency: Lekë
•Official Holidays:
January 1 & 2 - New Year’s Day
March 14 - Summer Day
March 22 - Nevrouz day
May 1 - Labor Day
October 19 - Day of Beautification of Mother Teresa
November 28 - Independence Day
November 29 - Liberation Day
December 8 - National Youth Day
December 25 - Christmas Day
In Albania, there is a peaceful coexistence of those practicing a variety of religious faiths. Muslims, Orthodox, and those following the teachings of the Catholic Church comprise the majority of people adherent to religion. In 1967, religious worship was prohibited and the country became the world’s only official atheist state. Since the end of the Communism,
Albanians have been guaranteed the freedom of religion and have exercised that freedom in various ways.
•The following are also public holidays that do not occur on the same date every year:
Catholic Easter March/April/March
Orthodox Easter March/April/May
Greater Bajram End of Ramadan
Lesser Bajram/ is variable
