Travel Summary

• Due to heavy snow and low temperatures in Albania driving conditions are difficult and some roads impassable, particularly in mountainous areas. If you decide to travel to these areas use snow chains and ensure you have extra clothing and food, and a means of calling for assistance should you encounter problems. The freephone emergency contact number for the Traffic Police is 126. The Albanian State Police provide an updated list of road closures (in Albanian) here.
  
  
• The rainy season, usually between December and February, can cause severe flooding, particularly in the north of Albania. See Natural Disasters.
  
  
• Although public security is generally good, particularly in Tirana, crime and violence still represent a problem in some areas (though not typically targeted at foreign nationals). Gun ownership is widespread.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Albanian Border and Migration Police figures showed that 73,928 British Citizens visited Albania between 1 June 2010 and 1 June 2011. Most visits are trouble-free. See General - Consular Assistance Statistics.
  
  
• You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to Albania. See General - Insurance.