Albanian Riviera a victim of its success

By Birgit Ulrich

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The city of Saranda on the Albanian Riviera. The huge increase in tourist numbers to Albania has led to a boom in hotel construction along this stretch of coast

Albania was ranked as the world's top destination to be visited in 2011 by Lonely Planet and the Balkan country has been growing in popularity with tourists for several years.

One of the top attractions is what has become known as the Albanian Riviera, a 120-kilometre stretch of beaches and villages between the cities of Vlore and Sarande. However, the huge increase in tourist numbers has led to a boom in hotel construction along this stretch of coast.

"There's no sign of idyllic fishing villages and isolated sandy beaches. Hotels have been built directly on the shoreline wherever possible," complained backpacker Dirk, who together with his girlfriend picked Albania as their holiday location after reading Lonely Planet's glowing recommendation.........

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