Albania in shoulder season — best decision I made

Visited Albania in shoulder season deliberately and the decision paid off completely. Albanian Riviera without peak crowds is a totally different experience. Sarandë felt lived-in rather than touristy. Found a small place doing the best byrek I've ever tasted — something that would have been invisible in high season when everything fills with visitors.

incredibly cheap was particularly magical with fewer people around. The weather was fine. The prices were better. If you have flexibility, avoid peak season.