A New Chapter in Tirana: An American Expat’s Journey to Albania
After spending over 32 years running a furniture store in the South Bay region of California, Cheryl Orlov made a life-changing decision at the age of 52. She sold or gave away most of her possessions, including her home and vehicles, packed eight suitcases, and moved to another part of the world. This move was not just a change of scenery but a complete shift in lifestyle that has transformed her perspective on life.
Orlov had lived a comfortable life surrounded by loved ones, but she felt an insatiable pull toward travel. Despite visiting over 40 countries across all seven continents, there were still destinations that hadn’t reached her radar, such as Albania. Following a relationship break-up in March 2022, she decided to take the opportunity to start afresh and move to Albania’s capital, Tirana.
Her journey began when she discovered Albania through articles and videos about far-flung destinations. She was impressed by its slower-paced lifestyle, diverse natural beauty, and the unmatched hospitality of its local people. In September 2022, Orlov organized a scouting trip to Albania, where she was awestruck by the country’s rugged landscape and sparkling shores. She described it as a place that reminded her of the California she had always wished to see before rapid development took over.
Drawn to Albania’s delicious cuisines, warm hospitality, and proximity to other European destinations on her bucket list, Orlov decided to make the country her new home the following year. Since moving to Tirana, she has enjoyed a vibrant social life, opting to walk everywhere instead of driving, and paying significantly less for rent compared to California.
She noted that she rents a two-bedroom apartment in Tirana for €500 per month—a price unthinkable in Los Angeles. The affordability extends to every aspect of life, from groceries and dining out to healthcare. By regularly attending meet-ups with local community-minded groups, Orlov has built a tight network of friends, including fellow expats and native Albanians.
Away from the city’s bustle, she often spends her time touring agrotourism farms and wineries in the countryside, indulging in fresh cheese and seasonal wine. On weekends, she enjoys the simplicity of taking a quick flight to nearby hotspots like Greece, North Macedonia, and Italy.
Orlov also emphasized that she feels incredibly safe in Albania, more so than she ever did back home. She mentioned a strong sense of security, where people look out for one another. She can walk through the city by day or night without worry, something she never realized she was missing until she found it.
For Orlov, relocating alone to the other side of the planet has not only enriched her life culturally but also given her the opportunity to create the life she’s always imagined. She encourages those considering a similar move to plan a scouting trip before packing up their belongings.
Orlov added that Albania isn’t for everyone, and it’s important to explore different areas in person. She thought she wanted to live by the sea until she visited Tirana. Then she knew she had found her home.
