FAQs

Question

What is Valle?

Answer

Valle is a joyful traditional Albanian folk dance! The word itself means "dance" in Albanian, and it refers to a wide variety of circle and line dances performed across Albania and in the diaspora. It involves stepping in 2/4 or 3/4 time, although it is less about technical precision and more about collective rhythm and spirit. The leader of the line often waves a shamija (handkerchief) with their free hand to add flourish. There is no need to practice at all prior to the wedding. Feel free to just jump in! However, in case anyone would like to see some of the steps ahead of time, this video is a good intro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIfbo66aLDU Here's what it looks like in the broader context of a wedding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zM_NmRuh6w&t=132s

Question

What will the food be like during the wedding weekend?

Answer

Albanian cuisine is traditionally quite meat-forward! However, our venues are aware that not all guests will necessarily eat meat. At the Hotel Liss welcome dinner on the 25th, both veggie and meat mains will be available (no need to order in advance). For the wedding reception, please just indicate on your RSVP form if you prefer a veggie main. All meat will be halal and both nonalcoholic and alcoholic drinks will be available at all events throughout the weekend. If you have any additional dietary needs or requests, please email us at marselandbecca2026@gmail.com and we will do our best to accommodate them :)

Question

Is there anything to know about bringing kids to the wedding?

Answer

We are excited and honoured to have kids attending the wedding! We would love to invite any kids present to be our “flower children” during the ceremony if they want to (small baskets of petals will be provided). We will also ensure access to a private room that parents can use for breastfeeding, quiet time, etc. if they wish throughout the event.

Question

Where can I pray at the wedding venue?

Answer

We will ensure access to another private room that can be used by anyone seeking a place for prayer or some quiet.

Question

What is the dress code for the wedding?

Answer

We’re bringing together Albanian and American traditions! Western guests may be used to a clear dress code, but in Albania guests aren’t usually given one so you’ll likely see a lovely mix of styles. To help you plan, dresses of any length (from floor-length to cocktail) will fit right in. A button-down shirt with chinos or dress pants is also appropriate; no jacket or tie necessary, unless you prefer. Aim for something comfortable enough to enjoy the dancing and easy to pack if you’re travelling from afar.

Question

What language is spoken in Albania?

Answer

The main language spoken is Albanian (Shqip). Linguistically, Albanian is an Indo-European isolate, meaning it forms its own entirely distinct branch on the language tree and contains several unique sounds. It is also one of the oldest living European languages! English is fairly widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and by young people, though it is not universal. What this means from a travel logistics perspective is that you can typically get around fairly easily in the cities using English, or a translation app like Google Translate. However, if you’d like to learn a few Albanian phrases, that’s great and will be well-received. This YouTube channel has some helpful intro videos covering key phrases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfXAiqZVrF4

Question

Can I rent a car?

Answer

You can and some visitors do. Albanians drive on the right side of the road, as in the U.S. and most of continental Europe. However, it’s an “at your own risk” kind of situation, and the majority of people choose to hire a driver instead because driving norms around things such as speed, use of hazard lights, sudden braking, and lane changes are much looser here than many Westerners may be used to. Marsel says, “Driving here is usually best left to the locals.” If you really want to rent a car, you certainly can—just be prepared to be a very vigilant and defensive driver. Otherwise, see details about hiring drivers on the Travel & Accomodation page.

Question

How should I handle money/payments while travelling?

Answer

In Albania, cash is king. While some places do accept cards (especially in urban areas), many do not so it’s always best to always carry some cash if possible. Albania’s currency is the leke, and 100 leke is equal to about 1 euro. You can withdraw leke from ATMs easily, including at the airport, just be aware that most ATMs here charge a fee of 500-1000 leke per transaction so it’s good to try to limit the number of withdrawals and just take out more cash at a time if you do it this way. Also make sure to always select “Charge in local currency (Albanian leke)” to get a much more favorable exchange rate. Another option is to bring cash of any currency with you and exchange it for leke at any of the numerous currency exchange offices here, such as Iliria '98 Currency Exchange, or at major banks including Raiffeisen Bank, BKT, or Intesa Sanpaolo Bank. A third option is to exchange some cash into leke in your home country before you arrive.

Question

Is tipping a thing?

Answer

Tipping isn’t quite as pervasive or expected as it is in the U.S. However, it is certainly welcome and appreciated. Around 10% is standard for services such as restaurant meals and taxi rides.

Question

How should I manage my phone data?

Answer

One option is to simply turn off mobile data and rely on Wi-Fi in hotels or cafés. If you plan to travel around Albania before or after the wedding, though, getting a local SIM or eSIM is usually the easiest way to stay connected. This will let you use maps, contact drivers and taxis, keep in touch with the group, and look up translations while out and about. A prepaid SIM card costs from about 500–1500 leke (€5–15) depending on the data package, and can be purchased at the airport or at many mobile shops around the country. An eSIM is the digital version of a SIM card that you activate by scanning a QR code. Many newer phones support eSIMs, but not all, so please check your device first. eSIMs can be downloaded in advance from international providers or purchased locally at the airport and carrier shops. International roaming may also work, though it’s usually more expensive.

Question

Do I need a visa to enter Albania?

Answer

Whether you need a visa depends on your citizenship. Citizens of many countries, including all EU, UK, Australian, and U.S. citizens, can visit for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. If you are a citizen of a country other than these ones, we recommend checking what the requirements are. You will likely need to secure a tourist visa, and this can be done either online or at the Albanian diplomatic mission in your country.

Question

How safe is Albania?

Answer

The short answer is: very safe! Most residents and visitors alike report feeling quite comfortable in public spaces both during the day and at night, and crime rates are low. It’s overall a pretty mellow place to travel and people tend to be exceptionally friendly and helpful. That said, as in any new place, it’s good to stay aware and not leave any valuables lying out unattended.

Question

How kid-friendly is Albania as a travel destination?

Answer

Very! Kids are pretty central to the social fabric of life in Albania. There is often a quasi-communal approach to childcare in public spaces here, with strangers stopping to interact warmly with children they encounter or jumping in to assist parents who might need help with anything. Kids are typically brought along everywhere and encouraged to play and wander around in a free-range sort of way.