Seen from Lekatari’s technicolored glasses, Tirana is a web of equal-parts vibrant corners and peaceful spaces where one can quickly escape. Below find what the popular (and first-ever!) Albanian sex-blogger had to say about enjoying her native city to the fullest.  

Café:

My day starts really early and, as a result, I have given up the prolonged coffee ritual. That does not mean that I don’t have a favorite spot. I do and it’s “My Way,” a simple place made of wood with a little front yard which often becomes my virtual office. The delicious coffee, the quiet and the house cat make me feel right at home. 

Landmark: 

Blloku is my reference point for several reasons. Perhaps, it is because I was born and grew up there or, maybe, it is as a result of anything new always happening there first, or because it is the most urban and, therefore, most easily identifiable area. The streets in this particular quarter of town, especially on a Sunday morning, give me the best feeling, one of living life to the fullest extent.  

Random Spot:

Dajti Mountain is a random spot for me. The insufficient time and the mountain’s overpopulation during the holidays make me stay away from. I only visit this famous sightseeing spot on special occasions. 

Go-to Lunch Restaurant: 

“Gjelbër” (“Green”) is the perfect place for a quick lunch, especially for those like me who adore healthy vegetarian and vegan food. The Budda Bowl and the coffee made with almond-milk are a must.

Dish in a Local Restaurant:

I would have a really hard time picking just one! I love food, especially contemporary twists and exotic concoctions. But, if I had to choose, I would go with my all-time favorite spot when I want something good and fast – Tartuffe Risotto at Mystic. 

Happy Hour Drink and Place: 

I love everything Italian, including the very idea of enjoying a leisurely aperitivo, something I try to do daily. My favorite spot is Tribeca Bar. It’s small, by the side of the street and, like the name suggests, it feels like you’re in NYC. It has maintained its original style and offers a nice variety of drinks and cocktails.

Guilty Pleasure:

The lake in Tirana. I simply adore this part of town and love that now I can jog or ride a bike around the lake in its entirety. Some time spent here in the spring and summer mornings makes you truly love life more! 

Culture Spot:

My culture spot is either my house or my friend’s houses, where I spend my free time, watching films, discussing books, etc. Training or meetings with people who help me in my development are what I consider my cultural spaces, a bit un-sharable with the world.

Go-To Dinner Restaurant:

Luga e Argjendtë an Albanian “tavern” with gourmet food. Dhurata’s unusual combinations, her skills and imagination result in delicious food which will make you say goodbye to your diet. The dishes here are so beautiful and tasty that you cannot help but act like a food blogger and snap away at the food before it disappears.

Bar/Club:

For over a decade, Radio Bar has been the capital’s most unique spot with good music, atmosphere, drinks, staff and friends. The retro and colorful décor, the familiar faces of both staff and clientele, the meeting of the Albanian past and future, everything is so seamlessly interwoven that your feet automatically take you there.