Throughout the race, every country seems to have at least
one attribute that makes it stand out above the rest. Ecuador’s outstanding
trait was the family we were staying with. Peru’s was….the adventure days.
Bolivia’s was…just about everything. I believe, for Albania, it will be the
relationships with university students…or just people in general.
Europe has always made me feel comfortable and content. So,
when I found out we would be working on a college campus, I was not only
excited to be reminded of the best four years of my life, but to get to know
people my age in another country. The only people I have formed close
relationships with, on the race, have mostly been children or people who could
be my parents age, or older. While all these relationships have been
instrumental in “finding myself” as a world traveler, it’s been awesome to see
how people my age live abroad…again…
The most prominent difference in mannerisms between students
in the university is their physical interaction with one another.
In the states, students will most likely only hug people
they are close to, or have at least known for a while. Handshakes are common. Kisses
on the cheek, hand holding and linked arms are reserved for those who are in a
relationship or interested in starting one. In Albania, this is VERY different.
If you first meet someone, it is considered rude to not kiss
them on each cheek, hug them or at least shake their hand. Men will often link
arms as they walk and kiss each other on the cheek for greetings and good-byes.
A handshake is NOT common and actually quite awkward if you try to greet
someone that way. Most Albanian’s have intense grips on their handshakes so I
would not recommend greeting someone that way.
Also, in the states, coffee shops are the “go to place” to
be alone and study. In Albania, coffee shops, bars and nightclubs all serve the
same purpose….to get to know people. If a guy asks a girl to go get some coffee
alone, he is most likely planning to ask her out or is at least interested in
being more than just a friend. (good to know).
Since my love language is physical touch, and I am a
recovering coffee addict, I feel like I fit right in J
Welcome to Albania!
