Yahoo News TUI boss names Europe’s next ‘huge’ holiday destination - and it’s only a £20 flight from Manchester
A country that’s been dubbed ‘the Maldives of Europe’ has been named ‘the next big Mediterranean’ holiday destination by the boss of TUI. Albania is becoming increasingly popular as a cheaper alternative to traditional holiday destinations.
The country, which shares a border with Greece to the south, has gorgeous white beaches along its Adriatic coast, known as the ‘Albanian Riviera’. One coastal village has even been compared to the Maldives on social media, thanks to its picturesque parasols, wooden jetties and crystal-clear waters.
Speaking to The Independent, Sebastian Ebel, chief executive of TUI, described the country as “great” and said there were huge travel opportunities there. He told the publication: “I’m a big fan of Albania and I think we should and could do more. It’s on our agenda to look at it. I think the prospect is huge and I wouldn’t be surprised if we start a significant programme there.”
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Albania’s tourism minister, Mirela Kumbaro, previously told The Independent that the country is “aiming for high-end tourism.” Although she did disagree with claims that Albania is the ‘Maldives of Europe’ as the country seeks to champion its own identity.
Ryanair has direct flights from Manchester to Tirana from £19.99 one way. An alternative route is flying to the Greek island of Corfu, where you can catch a ferry over to the beach resorts of Sarande and Ksamil.
Ksamil has gone viral on social media thanks to its scenic views, with more than 30,000 tags on TikTok. TikTok user The Travel Mum said: “When people see pictures of this place they instantly think of the Maldives! But lucky for us, it’s a lot closer to home.” Nora Travel said on TikTok: “Found a paradise in Albania. Add it to your bucket list for 2024.”
