Albania means the Land of the Eagles. Albania has been isolated from the rest of the world for many years, may about 50 years. In the meantime, about one million small bunkers were created in the country for practically every Albanian family. These buildings had to protect citizens from imaginary enemies. I once read and noted the interesting fact that in 1985 only 500 cars were registered throughout the country, which only representatives of the government apparatus could drive. I had heard that earlier the country's roads were tragic in quality.
Therefore, considering at least those roads that we rode, I can say that huge progress has been made and still going on. Many roads are being repaired. The quality of the roads, I dare say, is even ahead of our neighboring Latvian roads. I have heard that there is very popular Mercedes brand. Obviously, as the quality of the roads improved, the Albanians began to buy cars of all brands. Because, having traveled a considerable part of the country, the eyes captured a rather large variety of car brands. Of course, the majority of Mercedes, but probably not as absolute as before, 10 or 15 years ago.
Albania is considered as enough poor country in Europe. In recent years, its economy has recovered a little, attracting a lot of investment, especially from Italy. However, development is damaged by corruption. Houses, vehicles, people have testified that the country is a bit poor still. One more observation is that in Albania the number of gas stations is really surprising. I say that they are located every 3 or 5 kilometers. In no other country, I have seen such concentration. Although the buildings are new but inside there is nothing like our imaginary gas station - only a cafe inside. We also noticed that there is no bus stop, people stop the bus anywhere on the road.
What kind of impressions did Albania leave? It's not bad at all, despite the clutter. It seems that the country stands on its feet, people are trying to work something. On the roads there are plenty of people - all moving, riding, carrying bundles or carrying some things with horses.
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