I took a mini vaycay to the south of Albania since I've been hearing how beautiful and different it is compared to Northern Albania. I visited four major cities (over the course of two different trips): Gjirokaster, Pogradec, Korçë and Berat. It was very interesting to see other volunteers apartments, size of their sites and the over all feel of their communities. I realized even more how much of a patriarchal town Bajram Curri is compared to most places in southern Albania.
While in Gjirokaster I visited the castle that has artifacts from the Communist resistance against German occupation and a US Air force plan to commemorate the struggle against the imperialist powers. It is one of the better preserved castles in Albania and is one of the 2 UNESCO cities in Albania. Peace Corps Volunteers there have worked with local merchants and the castle, improving tourism possibilities. Gjirokaster is known as the 'city of 2000 steps' and has an old and new part of town.
Pogradec is known around Albania as "the get away city" for lovers. It sits on the breath taking Orhid Lake and is one of the most popular places for vacations in Albania. There are 3 Peace Corps Volunteers here.
Korce is the 6th largest city in Albania and hosts one of the only breweries in Albania, the Korce Beer Factory. We attended the 5th annual Festa e birres in Korce where we got to enjoy brewed beer, live music and grilled food. There are 4 Peace Corps Volunteers here.
Berat is the other UNESCO city in Albania and is known as the "city of windows." The name Berati comes from "white city." Berat also has a castle at the top of the hill that is protected by UNESCO. Part of the community in Berat still lives within the castle walls. There are 3 Peace Corps Volunteers here.
