'Thailand of Europe' with crystal clear waters costs as little as £18 to get to from UK

A European beach destination is being hailed as the new Thailand, with its breathtaking shores and crystal-clear waters, and it's just a three-hour flight away.

Thailand has become a global holiday-destination for its idyllic beaches, exquisite cuisine, and the infamous full moon parties that attract scores of Brits each year. Yet, the lengthy and costly journey can be a deterrent for many.

But if you're craving that tropical paradise experience without splashing the cash or spending too much time travelling, there's good news. Europe hides a gem that echoes the Thai allure, with bargain flights starting from just £18 if you're savvy with your booking.

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Over on TikTok, travel enthusiast Aleksandra shared mesmerising scenes from Lumi i Shales, Albania, with her followers, captioning her video: "A hidden place in Albania that looks like Thailand."

The viral clip showcases adventurers gliding over serene waters in canoes, picture-perfect beaches, and verdant mountain scenery. The Shale River, also known as Lumi i Shales, slices through the Albanian Alps and has recently emerged as a must-visit spot in the nation.

Whether you're up for zip-lining, snorkelling, swimming, kayaking, hiking, or simply lounging on the beach with a riveting read, this destination offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for those seeking an affordable slice of heaven away from the commercial hotspots.

People didn't hesitate to express their awe, heading straight to the comments section. One user praised: "Beautiful place!" while another said: "I've been to Albania multiple times. [It's] my favourite country of all times and I've travelled quite a lot. 10/10 would recommend to everyone." Another mistaken viewer chimed in: "I THOUGHT IT WAS THAILAND."

Travel to Albania from multiple UK airports is direct, including Bristol, Birmingham, Luton and Stansted. For flexible travellers seeking super savings, flights can plunge as low as £18 in September. Indirect flights typically arrange transfers at Milan Bergamo airport in Italy they're still affordable.

Keep in mind though; navigating from Tirana Airport in Albania to the dreamy Lumi i Shales requires effort. Opt for either hiring a car or booking a coach from the airport to Lake Komani.

A four-and-a-half-hour journey which will set you back €10 on a bus departing at 5 am, or €100 for a taxi. Make sure to keep €6 handy for a round trip ferry crossing to Lumi i Shale, just an hour's sail that adds to the adventure.

Securing lodgings in Lumi i Shale might be tricky and relatively costly compared to other areas in Albania. You're looking at around £100 per night for a basic hotel room fitting up to three people.

Alternatively, consider staying in Komani where you could save money, costing approximately £60 per night.