1. Restaurants might advertise food they don’t sell like crepes, ice cream, or even food. We walked into a place that advertised a long list of food out front only to be told that they did not serve any of it. Sometimes these false advertisements involve pictures of other restaurants’ food like McDonald’s French fries.
2. When asking whether it was safe for us to walk somewhere at night, we were asked, “How can you think Albania is unsafe? You are from America!” Apparently, the impression of America here is that it is the epitome of dangerous
3. “Let’s go have a coffee.” This is what all of our new friends say to us. It is the typical Albanian invitation for asking someone to hang out and talk. There is no shortage of coffee shops here!
4. When greeted by friends, don’t be surprised to be kissed on both cheeks! This greeting is very foreign to Americans, but completely normal for Albanians. They will kiss you good-bye as well!
5. As in many countries, vendors along the streets are a normal sight. Shoes are one common item that are seen on the streets of Tirana. The Gypsies that sell them have plenty, but don’t expect to find a matching mate for the shoe you like.
6. Every country has some type of food or drink to offer that is exclusive to its culture. In Albania, their drink happens to be a unique flavor of a common soft drink. Fanta Exotic can only be found here, and its fruity taste is something I can’t get enough of!
7. The buses in Albania are not the fastest form of transportation around. A common joke of the locals is when they are in a hurry they will just walk to get to their destination faster than the 
bus!
8. Bunkers were placed all across Albania during its reign of Communism. These metal mounds can be seen anywhere you go, and have become canvases for an artist we actually had the privilege of meeting!
9. Just as in America, many restaurants have no smoking signs in the windows; however, unlike America, don’t expect everyone to follow the rules! These signs are more like suggestions around here, and my little lungs were quite surprised the first day I experienced it!
10. Sufflaqe is a favorite lunch time staple. It is similar to a wrap with meat, veggies, sauce, and French fries! Who wouldn’t want some crispy potatoes in their sandwich?!
11. Upon arriving in Albania, one of the first things l noticed was the sight of unfinished buildings. We drove past many four story buildings with the top floors sitting as shells. I later learned that Albanians do not have to pay property taxes on unfinished buildings, so some people choose to never finish a building in order to never pay the taxes. I can’t say I don’t blame them!
