Cheap Holiday Expert Chelsea Dickenson is always on the lookout for destinations where you can get more bang for your buck – and she thinks this city break should be on your radar
Travel guru Chelsea Dickenson is always on the hunt for ways to cut down travel costs, whether that’s finding loopholes in airline baggage fees, sharing packing tips, or swapping popular holiday spots for lesser-known destinations. Chelsea, better known as Cheap Holiday Expert, recently highlighted underrated city breaks that should be on your radar, especially if you’re looking to save a few bob without skimping on the thrill of travel.
Chelsea recently teamed up with Boots to put together ready-made bundles containing all the essentials for festivals, beach trips, and adventures so customers can get everything they need in one go, without having to shell out a small fortune.
Being a lover of a good deal, Chelsea is always scouting for destinations where her money will go further. There’s one European city Chelsea reckons is grossly underrated, despite the country receiving heaps of praise for its coastal spots in recent years.
Speaking to the Express, she said: “So one place I think should be on more people’s radar, it’s really interesting, because Albania has been getting lots more attention, but more for their Riviera…I’m saying their capital Tirana is absolutely gorgeous.”
Nestled in the heart of Albania, the capital city Tirana is surrounded by mountains and hills, including Dajti. The city was established by an Ottoman Albanian general in 1614 and became an independent nation in 1912, nearly three centuries later.
Chelsea praised Tirana as a haven for those who love green spaces, boasting numerous outdoor areas to unwind in during the sunny summer months. She suggested that when the weather is favourable, one should delve into the local cafe and restaurant scene.
Chelsea added: “They have such a brilliant cafe and restaurant culture, so there’s so many outdoor places to sit. I was getting their traditional pastries for I think 45 pence each. So you can eat super affordably.”
The city is brimming with Balkan pastries, with an Albanian local highlighting treats like borek, kadai and baklava. Another speciality to try is kompekaj, akin to the well-loved baklava.
A Tirana local offered some tips on the best culinary spots. Kernace Zgare Fatosi is the go-to for fans of kofta, breads and yoghurt.
For an extra-special experience, they recommend visiting at twilight for a truly magical atmosphere.
If you’re keen to sample some traditional Albanian cuisine, make your way to Restorant GjinoKastra for some authentic pacha – or stew – featuring some surprising ingredients… like sheep head, if that’s your cup of tea. They also suggest trying some Turkish coffee, though be warned that these coffee shops are invariably rammed.
For some cultural exploration and attractions, consider Skanderbeg Square, Kalaja e Tiranes (Tirana Castle), the New Bazaar in Pazari i Ri, and Sofra e Aruit, a bear cafe with bears within arm’s reach.
Chelsea also highlighted the city’s drinking scene, such as Blloku. To savour a tipple whilst soaking up panoramic views of the city, the rooftop at the Xheko Imperial Hotel is “amazing”.
Another perk of visiting Tirana?
The bargain flights. Chelsea flagged up the Albanian capital as one of the rare destinations where you could bag a return flight for roughly £40 during quieter periods.
A flight from London Stansted with Ryanair in September could see you fork out just £15 each way. Chelsea managed to keep costs down, spending only £100 on a three-day, two-night break in the city.
“You know, holidays are getting more expensive,” Chelsea said. “It’s one of those places that you can go and do not have to spend a fortune.”
The ready-to-go bundles will be available on boots.com containing all the essentials for festivals, beach trips, and adventures. The three bundles are £20 each, consisting of five to seven products and with savings of over £10.