'European Maldives' hours away from UK where you can stay for £50 a night

The Maldives boastsimmaculate beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and balmy temperatures reaching a pleasant 30C, yet a destination much nearer to home might present an enticing substitute for many travellers.

While we're currently in peak holiday season with accommodation reserved and luggage undoubtedly prepared in countless homes, some people are already exploring their next getaway options.

The Maldives undoubtedly features on many wish lists, thanks to its unspoilt coastlines and azure ocean waters.

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However, the substantial cost and lengthy journey required to reach this Indian Ocean paradise might deter some from making the booking.

Booking.com revealed in its 2024 Travel Predictions that travellerswould start to balance budget constraints and luxury cravings.

The platform noted that 62 per cent of travellers indicated rising living costs would restrict their travel arrangements.

Additionally, 50 per cent of holidaymakers expressed a desire to visit destinations where living expenses are lower than in their home nation, reports The Mirror.

Travel specialists from Booking.com previously highlighted that tourists could discover glittering coastlines and an extraordinary seaside experience in Albania.

The Balkan nation, positioned between Montenegro and Greece, provides a Mediterranean getaway at a fraction of the cost compared to other regional alternatives.

Specifically, Booking.com previously identified the coastal town of Vlorë as amongst their premier destinations for this year.

"The jewel of the Balkans, Albania is the trending beach escape for 2024 due to its azure waters, impressive mountains, and affordability for all types of travellers," said Booking.com.

"Tucked away in the southwest is the underrated seaside gem of Vlorë, the starting point of the Albanian Riviera and a great base for road trips to explore up and down this sunny coast.

"Home to some of Albania's most beautiful beaches, the glistening shoreline provides visitors with Europe's answer to the Maldives – a welcome option for the 43 percent of UK travellers who will be searching for luxe-for-less copycat holidays to reduce costs."

While there aren't any direct flights to Vlorë, the closest airport is in Tirana, Albania's capital, roughly a two-hour drive away.

There are plenty of budget-friendly flights from the UK to Albania, so it's worth exploring the best options for your needs.

Hiring a car might be the most convenient way to reach Vlorë once you land in Albania, with numerous providers to choose from.

You can compare car hire prices for your holiday with companies like Holiday Extras, Travel Supermarket and KAYAK.

Alternatively, there's a shuttle bus service that runs between Tirana Airport and Vlorë. If you fancy exploring the capital first, you can catch a bus from the city centre bus terminal.

Given its popularity, there's no shortage of accommodation options in Vlorë. Hotels start as low as £47.87, with five-star options available from £189.06 per night.